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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 11, 2020 21:09:30 GMT -5
Calista Jade Runik – princess of Kingdom Runik
Warner Col Runik – King of Kingdom RunikMurielle Rose Runik – Queen of Kingdom Runik Azer Dane Runik – Prince of Kingdom RunikJesper Oneus – Prince of Kingdom OneusKingdom of Runik Cassius Willow – Captain of the Knights of Runik, protector of the royal family Alice Ward – Servant to the princess The silence of winter held the Kingdom of Runik in its grasp. A soft snow fell from the dark skies, casting a blanket of white over the mountains and the valley. Runik was a special place, one that had many advantages. Within the valley below the city the ocean crashed upon the black sandy shores allowing for a port for the city. Though, it was quite the trek to make it to the gates of Runik, it was still an advantage. The city was nestled upon the mountain, against the jagged rocks upon the edge of a cliff. For many it was a mystical place, water rushed through the center of the city from deep within the mountain and cascaded over the edge to the valley below. The buildings were ancient, as were the people. Generations ago the Runik family took hold of the mountain and built it into something beautiful. The king and queen were gracious rulers that kept their city safe. King Warner ruled with strength and in each battle his knights within his army came out undefeated. With thanks to his wife Queen Murielle whom was a mage. The kingdom flourished under their reign, any kingdom that dared challenge them fell to it’s knees before the power of the kingdom. “Darling, shouldn’t you be asleep?” A woman stepped into the dimly lit room. The marble flooring clicked beneath her heels. She wore a beautiful red dress that cascaded over her body, her hair was a deep chocolate brown, and her eyes were a striking color, one was golden, the other was an icy blue. A young woman turned from where she stood at the window of the balcony, her arms crossed lightly over her body. She gave a soft smile and a sigh came over her lips. She was dressed in a black evening gown, her feet were warmed by slippers as she stepped away from the window. “I tried, honestly.” She stepped to her mother, “I’m afraid that I might be a bit nervous.” She let out an uneasy laugh. “You? My sweet Calista? Nervous.” The woman chuckled as she pulled her into a tight embrace. “No need darling. You know that your father and I wouldn’t allow any ill will to befall you. In the end, no matter what you have a say in your suitor, hm?” She kissed her daughter’s forehead and then stepped back. “There are plenty of fine young men that have come to ask for your hand, many with worthy offers even.” The queen chuckled lightly. “Though, I’m afraid that there will never quite be an offer good enough for my daughter. Hm?” She smirked lightly. “Do you want help to sleep dear?” The queen questioned as she searched her daughter’s eyes. Calista gazed to her mother she carried the same heterochromous eyes. It was a striking characteristic that many fell in awe of upon seeing the princess. “That may be the only thing that will help.” She gave a light smile. “You were always difficult to put down as a child.” Her mother spoke as she approached a cabinet at the far side of the room. She pulled out leaves of tea and other items to create a mixture. She poured cold water into the mug and wrapped her hands around it. A soft glow came from her fingertips and her eyes seemed to light with life, after only a moment the water began to steam. “I had to come up with this mixture all on my own you know? Nothing ever seemed to work for you dear.” She came to the edge of the bed and set the mug down as she sat next to her daughter. Calista gazed into her mother’s eyes curiously. “What of my abilities?” She questioned, her brows furrowed slightly. “No one knows that...” Murielle took her daughter’s hand and gave a gentle squeeze. “There are many mages within this world, darling.” She gave a warm smile. “Just look at the mages that we have found. Many of us live hidden because of the fears that some of humanity has. But there is no need to worry dear.” She tucked a lock of hair behind her daughter’s ear. “Why doesn’t Azer have abilities?” She questioned her brows furrowed slightly. She’d asked the question of her mother many times over the years. It always seemed to bother her that her brother wasn’t ‘gifted’….at least that was what her mother liked to call it. A gift. Accidentally setting fire to items as a child didn’t feel much like a gift. Though Calista had honed in her skills over the years with her mother’s help. There were not many mages in the world and she’d always feared that whomever her suitor was...it would be for power more than anything. The queen smiled and then drew in a breath. “Because my dear, you are special. Not every human is blessed with such greatness.” She reached for the mug and held it to her daughter. “Drink dear. You need to rest up for tomorrow.” Calista lifted the mug and inhaled the lovely scent of the medicinal remedy her mother had created. She took a long drink and let out a happy sigh. “What if we do not find a worthy suitor?” She questioned then, a bit of a smirk upon her lips. Murielle chuckled and shook her head. “Darling, I can guarantee you that you will fall in love with one of the suitors. Just you wait and see. If not...well there is always other gatherings that we can hold. But I believe a week of festivities is plenty enough for you to find a suitor, hm?” She watched as her daughter finished the mug of tea. “Lay down dear.” She took the mug and stood. She walked it to the cabinet and came back to the bedside. A soft smile curved up the woman’s lips as she looked to her daughter whom had already fallen asleep. She carefully tucked the blankets up around her before she slipped from the room. ** The morning sun cast across the marble floors of the castle. Birds chirped as they flew through the early morning skies. The blanket of fresh snow was beautiful. The untouched scenery was like something out of a painting. The hustle and bustle of the city had yet to begin for the day. The door pushed open and a young woman dressed in a simple dress and apron came into the room. “Good morning, Princess. Today is a big day. Lots planned for you.” She spoke as she stepped to the curtains and pulled them open further to allow more light into the room. “It’s a lovely day, the sun is shining, the clouds have cleared. As if a sign of good token.” The woman came to the edge of the bed. “Princess?” She questioned softly to the lump of blankets. “Just a few more minutes...” The voice came from beneath the blankets, only a few strands of her chocolate locks could be seen outside of the blankets. “No can do, Princess. You’ve too much to do today.” The woman spoke as she moved to the closet and she pulled out a beautiful blue dress with black accents. The colors really made the princess’ eyes pop. “Alice please just this once.” Another muffled plea from beneath the blankets. “Princess...you’ve got breakfast with the king and queen, as well as your brother. Then you have to prepare for the festivities. First there will be a small parade through the city, many of your citizens are looking forward to the parade. Next the king and queen will announce that your hand is open for suitors, though many already know this, it must be made official.” She spoke as she prepared the princess’ clothing for the day. “Lunch would be next, you’ll sit at a table with the royal family and the suitors in the hall that the ball will be held within.” She pulled out a pair of heels for the princess then. “Tonight is the masquerade ball, what an exciting way to get to know your new suitors hm?” She chuckled lightly. “You can go, in my place. It sounds like you really want to go.” Calista spoke from beneath the blankets. Alice laughed lightly, “Calista I’m no where near as stunning. Besides, I have blonde hair. They might notice, hm?” She came to sit at the edge of the bed. “Come on. You should be excited for this.” Calista lowered the blankets from her head finally, her hair was a tasseled mess. She sighed lightly. “The thought of leaving Runik? It terrifies me. Most of the suitors will want me to return to their kingdom...I...don’t want to leave my home, Alice.” She sighed lightly. “Besides, what if they...aren’t as good as they seem. Hm? I’ll be trapped.” Alice sighed lightly and shook her head. “Your mother wouldn’t allow that. I’ve known that woman all my life. She’s very good at seeing through lies. Try...not to worry so much, hm?” She smiled lightly. “Besides, if its a bad decision, I’ll tell you.” She winked. “Now come on.” Alice stood and walked across the room to the dresser where a mirror upon the wall looked back to her, a stool sat before it. Alice had become very close to the princess over the years, she knew everything about Calista. They had grown together, she was honestly one of Calista’s only friends outside of royalty. Calista wasn’t given much time to chatter with commoners, but Alice had all the time in the world with her since she was her assigned servant. Calista climbed from her bed and yawned as she slipped her feet into the slippers. “I hope you are right, Alice.” She spoke as she came to Alice’s side. “Aren’t I always?” She smirked before she began the morning routine of getting the princess ready for the day. Hot bath. Hair. Make up. Dressing her to the nines. By the time Alice was finished with Calista she looked almost like a different person. Her hair was beautifully tasseled, her tiara perched upon her head, her make up was nothing but perfect. Her corset was cinched down to accent her figure. She was gorgeous. “Off to breakfast then.” Calista spoke with a bit of a roll of her eyes. “See you later Alice.” She chuckled before she stepped from the room. She climbed down the stairs and navigated through the hallways of the castle. Knights bowed their head to her, servants spoke their good mornings. She smiled to each. Soon enough she found herself in the dining hall where her mother and father already sat with her brother at the table. “Ah look at my gorgeous daughter.” The king stood and stepped to her. He inspected her and then pulled her into a hug. “Mother told me that you had a rough night, hm?” He cupped her cheek. “No need to be nervous dear. Come, eat.” He pulled her chair out and pushed it in. Warner was just as loving as her mother. He sat in his chair and food was placed before them. “I hear that there are plenty of suitors coming, I’ve received many letters from other kingdoms offering their prince for your hand.” He smiled as he looked to his daughter. Calista gave a smile and then took a sip from her orange juice. “Mother told me.” She nodded. “I’m not sure I know what to do with so much attention.” She let out a nervous laugh before she took a bite of her food. “If you didn’t have this much attention I might be confused.” Azer spoke up a grin upon his lips. “Embrace it, Calista. Mother and father are only doing what is good for you. I can’t wait for a few more years to pass and I get to find my queen.” He grinned. Warner looked to his son and chuckled, “You’ve still a few years before you take over the throne son. I’m not old and decrepit yet.” The king grinned. Azer was older than Calista and thus would be the first to assume rights over the throne. But, the king and queen would not allow him to marry for a few more years as they wanted him to make a sound decision on his future queen. Calista on the other hand would be used more as an offering to another kingdom. An alliance with that kingdom would be formed. It was a smart tactic, one that Warner would be stupid to not use. Breakfast continued with idle banter and soon enough the royal family was out the gates of the castle to head to the city below. The castle set higher upon the mountain than the city that sat upon the cliffs of the mountain. It made for a gorgeous backdrop. The day seemed to be a blur to Calista as the parade commenced. She went through dressing changes. She spoke with many of the suitors over lunch, a smile upon her lips the entire time. Some were funny. Others were quite handsome. Some were definitely not what she was looking for. And others were a bit odd. ** Calista sat upon the stool in her room as the sun began to set. The ball would be soon. Alice moved about buttoning up her hair with beautiful braids and tassels. “I heard Prince Jesper showed, hm?” Alice spoke up as she began fixing the princess’ make up. Calista drew in a breath, “Oh yes, yes, I spoke with him a bit over lunch.” She spoke as she closed her eyes to allowed Alice to work on her eyeshadow. “He seems...nice...a bit pompous, but perhaps he was only trying to impress me.” She laughed lightly. Alice chuckled and smirked as she moved to adjust the corset of the princess’ new gown. It was a black gown with red accents, the colors of the kingdom. “Ah yes, men. They’ll talk you up a tree hm?” Alice giggled lightly. She then took a step back. “Well, at least with the masquerade you won’t know who you are speaking to, hm? It’ll be nice...to just speak with the suitors without their persona. Just focus on their demeanor. It might help you find the right one.” She smiled. Calista let out a laugh and smirked to Alice. “I can only hope that I am a good judge of character hm?” ** The ballroom was full of suitors. The music played through the hall. Food lined the tables as well as fine wines and ales for the suitors to drink. The king took the stage with the band and a silence filled the room. The queen stood at his side, her arm linked through his. “Good evening ladies and gentlemen.” He spoke as he looked through the crowd. “Tonight is a very special night. You will be able to dance and enjoy the company of my dear daughter, Princess Calista Jade Runik. Please do not reveal your identity to anyone, that is the fun of a masquerade after all.” He grinned. “Now, without further a-due.” He lifted his hand and on que Calista came down the curved stairs that led to the stage. “Enjoy the evening.” He smiled to her. Calista smiled to her father as he led her to the dance floor to start the first dance. Soon enough she was passed between suitors. Some interested her, others lost her interest the moment that she took their hand. She stepped to the side to grasp a glass of wine and she looked over the crowd. A man stepped to her side, he wore a mask that was simple with red embellishments and a black base. “Fun crowd.” He spoke as he sipped upon his wine. “I haven’t gotten a chance to dance with you yet princess. Perhaps after you enjoy your wine.” He gave a warm smile. “I’d hate to travel all this way and not get a chance to swoon you.” He smirked then. Calista looked to him a moment with a soft smile upon her lips. “Certainly, I wouldn’t want to deny anyone an dance.” She spoke as she finished her wine. She held her hand forward to him and he led her onto the dance floor. Several stopped to look to the two as he led the dance with deep scoops and perfectly timed twirls. He pulled her close and they moved about the dance floor flawlessly. When the song was finished a few in the crowd clapped for the two. The suitor still held her close for a moment, his eyes gazed into hers. “That’ll be a dance that’s hard to forget.” He spoke with a smile before another suitor pulled the princess away. Calista glanced over her shoulder to the suitor before she was whisked into the next dance. Soon enough she found herself another wine and she stepped out to the balcony to get a breath of fresh air. The crisp night air sent chills down her spin, yet it felt refreshing. She let out a long breath. How would she remember everyone? How would she make a decision? She knew the king and queen were watching as well...her father would have his choices, and her mother would too. Calista took a long drink from her wine. The two glasses had caused her cheeks to turn pink from lack of food, she could feel the alcohol in her system. It felt good to loosen up a bit. It wasn’t like her day to day training to be the best royalty that she could be. This was more like a celebration. A soft smile curved up her lips as she stepped back into the ballroom. She set her wine glass down and gazed over the crowd of people that mingled in celebration. |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 11, 2020 22:19:27 GMT -5
 Morgan Fey OneusThe waters of the great seas were gentle as their ship cruised over the rolling hills of water. Their ship was large, wooden, with the crest of the Kingdom flying high. In the far distance was the mountains of Runik. The city in the side was glowing in the distance of life. Morgan stood at the bow of the ship, a hand upon the railing as she peered outwards. There was a fluttering of snow in the air that attached to the raven feathers about her shoulders, which lined her black dress. The dress was slim fitting with black lace etched down the fronts and sides. She had pale skin - as white as snow, and black hair which was partially pulled back in a collection of untamed, yet beautiful, curles and waves. "Beautiful, isn't it?" The Prince stepped forward next to her, she smiled as he peered forward. "A pity I could not be King of such a land..." he sucked in a breath. "Their power is beyond measure, despite it all..." Morgan spoke with a soft voice. "Ah, darling Morgan, you know there is more to a Kingdom than its power and gold..." he smirked then and raised his hand into the air - to signal the ship to prepare to dock. "Aren't you cold, Morgan?" "Ah, dearest brother... you know the cold doesn't bother me much" he slapped his cheek playfully and stepped away, her boots clicking over the wooden deck. During the interviews - she was not welcome, however there were small events for the guests of the Kingdom. She mingled with the others amongst a banquet of food - talking of Kingdoms and the like. Aside from the Princesses - a few advisors, knights and the like came with their Prince, but she was the only Princess amongst the crowd. She drew in her arms as she watched the room from a distance... As her brother snuck into the room, he grasped her arm and pulled her aside, entering the corridor of the castle. "There you are" he spoke, a grin across his lips. "How did your lunch go, brother?" Morgan questioned, her hues staring over him. "Ah... this Princess is absolutely stunning..." he smirked then "hard to get, of course" "Well, imagine having 10 other boys such as your self, all trying for the same thing - to win her heart like a trophy" she chuckled and finished her glass of wine. "Come on then, lets get ready for the ball" she lead him towards the guest chambers. They spent the next few hours perfecting their clothing. Morgan lifted her mask - which was a ravens mask. "Fitting for you" Jesper chuckled and lifted his own. "Well yours is plain and boring, just like your face" she nudged him. "Oooh, harsh, so cruel, I will cry myself to sleep on that one" he laughed then and gathered his things. "Alright... let us commence..." "wait wait - " Morgan stepped over to her brother and lifted a small vial. She sprayed it upon him - a cologne. "There we go... " "Is that the enchanted Pavin oils?" "with a hint of lavender, of course" Morgan grinned and slipped it away. "Best of luck" she bowed her head and followed behind him. She wore a red dress that hugged her curves, black lace lined the front and back, but not the sides. Her shoulders were bare but she wore long black gloves that reached past her elbows. Her hair was pinned up, several thin braids weaved into the waves and curls of her hair - and her mask was strapped on. Though her piercing blue snow like eyes were visible and enchanting as ever. When she entered the ballroom - she felt eyes fall upon her, other knights and gentleman surely plotting their whisking of her. Though she was here for her brother - and to ensure his protection. Oneus was the second power to Runik, their unison would make an unstoppable force... This also make her brother a target... She found herself dancing on the ballroom - though her eyes would play to her brother. Her waited patiently all night for his turn with the Princess. She watched as he grasped her closely and danced - all the lessons finally playing off in this moment. There was no finer of a man than him, that was for certain. Morgan finished with her partner and slipped away, her steps leading her to the balcony moments before the Princess - as if she knew this would be the her escaping moment. Morgan stood outside, a light fall of snow fell from the dark skies. She sucked in a breath - the air was fresh, and cool - different here than her home. She turned as there was a familiar clicking - a princesses shoes. She turned then and smirked "Ah, the Princess in all her glory" she raised her glass and took a sip. "Isn't it a shame that we are all hidding by our masks, yet we all know you? Seems unfair to me. How much more fun would it have been - cat and mouse, the princess peaking under her mask, spying on all the men, mm no - boys, clammering for her beating heart" she smirked then and held a hand forward. "How about a true dance, hmm? " she set her glass down and stepped forward. She smiled, a rosey plush across her cheeks as the woman took her hand. She stepped forward and placed a hand upon her waist, playing the male - lead role in the dance. She moved slowly, nothing crazy, just relaxation. The music of the ball was a soft distant sound in the other room. It was just them, and the peaceful sky about them. "Many would think we'd swoon the minute of, picking the rest of our lives out of just the facade of a prince and his efforts" she sighed softly and then let go of her hand, to slip away back to her part of the rail, lifting her wine. "I've had my fair share of dances with the others, and at least - I can say this one was the best of them all" she bowed her head and placed a friendly peck on the Princesses' cheek. "Now, back to the ball before they send a search party, hm?" she held the glass door open for her. "Come come" she smirked and followed the Princess back inside. She lifted her head back - lulling in the aroma of the woman, in truth he was right - she was truly beautiful. |
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 11, 2020 23:12:16 GMT -5
Calista turned her two toned eyes upon the woman that spoke, her breath caught in her chest. She hadn’t expected anyone to be outside, especially on a chilly night such as this. The princess held her wine glass within her fingertips as she gave a smile to the woman. As she listened to her words Calista let out a chuckle, “Ah yes, that would have made the evening much more relaxing I would be able to choose freely, without the men fighting for my attention.” She smirked then to this mysterious woman before she took another sip of her wine.
The woman surprised her then, she offered a dance. Calista’s brows tucked together slightly for a moment as she watched the woman set her wine glass down and step forward. “But of course, I wouldn’t deny a dance to a guest of the kingdom.” She spoke with a smile as she set her nearly empty glass down. Though to her surprise the woman took the lead. It wasn’t a conventional style of dance between two women. Calista couldn’t help but smile, she felt a warm blush upon her cheeks as they moved to the distant music. The dance was over in just moments it felt like. “My mother believes I’ll fall in love with a suitor so quickly.” She let out a laugh. Why was she sharing this with this mysterious woman? The princess stepped back from the dance after a moment of her hand still in the air. She reached for her wine glass and finished it off. She let out a soft almost nervous chuckle to the woman’s comment about the dance. “It was very nice, and quiet.” She spoke as she glanced inside. She could see her brother making his way across the ballroom toward them. “Ah yes, I can only disappear for a few moments before they come looking it seems.”
Calista stepped into the ballroom once again, she was whisked away by yet another suitor and meshed back into the mix of the ballroom. “You held the attention of my sister for quite sometime.” Azer spoke as he approached Morgan. A smirk upon his lips. “Would you care for a dance?” He offered his hand to her and pulled her onto the dance floor. His movements were smooth, many years of lessons. He knew how to lead a lady in a dance. But he didn’t make a scene out of it. “I love your mask, it’s beautiful.” Azer spoke as he searched her eyes.
Though soon enough the music came to a close and the prince said his farewells as he stepped upon the stage next to the king and queen. Calista stepped upon the stage her eyes seemed to search through the crowd of people. She found the suitor that she remembered the most, the man with the seemingly bland mask. He had in fact swooped her off of her feet in a way that she’d never had. But her eyes fell upon the mysterious woman then for a long moment as her father said his words to the crowd. He thanked everyone for coming. He then turned to his daughter whom still gazed into the crowd, Calista was exhausted by this point, and a few wines in her system meant she wasn’t far off from slipping into a slumber. “Darling?” The king placed his hand upon her exposed shoulder.
Calista tore her eyes from the crowd. “Yes. Of course father.” She gave a warm smile.
“Calista will choose 5 suitors that she deems worthy of continuing on this week.” The king smiled. “We encourage you to enjoy the beverages and food while we discuss as a family.” He waved his hand and the family moved up the stairs to the upper balcony where her mother and father had resided most of the night. “Are you alright darling?” He asked as he cupped her cheek.
“Just tired father, I didn’t sleep well, remember?” She gave a soft smile as her eyes pulled from his and she looked back to the crowd.
“Well, I liked that one in the blue with the feathery mask.” Murielle spoke a smile upon her lips, “He seemed quite dashing, don’t you think dear?”
Calista glanced to her mother and followed her gaze. She had to recall the dance. “Yes, yes he was quite kind.” She spoke and nodded. “I enjoyed my dance with him.” She found the man with the black and red mask once again. Her eyes played over him a long moment.
**
“She’s looking at me, Morgan.” Jesper chuckled, a smirk upon his lips. “Did you say anything to her when you had her outside?” He glanced to his sister playfully.
**
The family chose three others for a total of five before they stepped back down upon the stage. The crowd grew quiet as Calista stepped forward. Her father spoke about Runik and how excited they were to have so many come out for Calista’s hand. She walked through the crowd and chose the suitors one by one. She would step up to the man and offer a gentle kiss upon his cheek before she would lead him to the front of the crowd. Calista made it through four before she finally came to Jesper. It looked almost as if she was going to walk passed him before she paused and looked to him with a sweet smile upon her lips. She leaned up and planted the kiss before she took his hand and led him forward as well. Her eyes caught Morgan’s a moment, she’d glanced over her shoulder to the woman before she led Jesper to the front of the crowd.
“The five men that stand before me have been carefully chosen by how you treated my daughter this evening. How you made her truly feel.” The king spoke. “Tomorrow each suitor shall get time with my daughter to get to know her. Make no mistake just because you stand before me does not mean that you have won...and sabotaging the others will not gain you my daughter’s hand.” The king spoke as he searched the men’s eyes. “Now. If you would reveal your identity.” He nodded to the first man on the end.
The man in blue removed his mask to reveal a handsome blonde man with a strong jaw, he bowed deeply. “I am Sir Evan of Willham.” He spoke in a strong voice. A knight.
The next man wore a golden mask, he pulled his down to reveal his features, he was a bit older than the princess. “Prince Tyler of Luna.” It was a very, very small kingdom. Gaining the princess’ hand would gain his kingdom protections.
The next was a strong gentleman that stepped forward and bowed deeply, “Sir Issac of Runik.” He spoke he was a knight upon their own army. The king smiled when he saw the man.
Next the man had fiery red hair and a strong beard. He bowed and gazed to the princess. “I am Prince Leon of Dreg.” It was a kingdom that was rather far away, Runik had very little interaction with them, but another ally was always welcomed.
Finally, the man in the red and black mask stepped forward. He bowed deeply as he removed it. “Prince Jesper of Oneus.” He grinned, his eyes locked on the princess before he looked to the king.
The princess drew in a breath when he locked eyes with her as her father began speaking of the plans for the week ahead. Combat sports would be the day after tomorrow. The king wanted to know how these men would keep his daughter safe. Though tomorrow would be the day that the men got to spend one on one time with the princess. That was a treat in its own. Not many kings allowed such a thing early on, but he wanted Calista to be able to make a decision and to do so she had to know these men. The king announced that the men would be given rooms within the castle and their entourage would also be given a guest room. Servants stepped forward to the men to ask them of their needs. “I will see you five for breakfast in the morning.” The king spoke with a nod before he turned to leave.
The evening came to a close and the princess stepped from the ballroom. She was led to her chambers where Alice prepared her for bed. The two talked about the night. Calista told Alice of the dance with the mysterious woman and she spoke of the dance with Jesper. Before she knew it her head was upon the pillow and she was fast asleep.
**
The next morning she was awakened as usual. Calista was a bit less nervous today. She chatted with Alice a smile upon her lips as she was placed into a beautiful red and white gown was flowed perfectly with her body. It had golden accents that seemed to make the colors of her eyes pop even more. Soon enough she found her way down the breakfast hall where she was met by her family and the 5 suitors that had been chosen, they were also allowed to bring in a guest to breakfast with them. Calista drew in a breath as her heels clicked across the marbled floor. She found her seat next to her father, across from her brother.
“Good morning.” She spoke as she looked about the table to the faces that looked to her.
Warner grinned as he looked to the men and their guests. “Today is a very special day. I want you to choose an activity that you believe Calista will enjoy. Something that you want to show her, that perhaps you think she has not gotten the chance to experience.” He nodded his eyes looked to Jesper and a smile split his lips again. It was good to see Oneus at the table. Jesper would make a great king to his daughter and well...the alliance with Kingdom Oneus would be invaluable. The king was already sold on the idea, pending Calista’s input of course.
Calista took a sip of her orange juice as plates of food were placed around the table. “So, tell me. What will we do then?” She asked, her eyes looked to the first suitor. She moved down the line one by one, a smile upon her lips as she listened to their responses. Horse back rides, walks through the gardens, very cliché things. “Prince Jesper. Do you have any input?” She questioned then as her eyes finally fell upon him.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 0:08:13 GMT -5
Morgan peered to the man that stepped before her. She lifted her hand and offered it to him – dancing with him. She chuckled and lifted her gaze to him as he led her strongly. “You know you ruin the point of a mask when you announce yourself so clearly to me” she get a gentle sigh. “Now I am obligated to like you” she smirked as she spun back into him, grasping his hand as he held her. “At least you can dance” she smirked and they continued. As he complimented her mask – she gave a soft chuckle. “Ah, that of a Raven, dark and ominous, just like my soul” she joked, and then when the song ended, she bowed her head. “Until next time, my Prince” she bowed and moved away.
She stood at the table of snacks and plucked a strawberry into her mouth after covering it in chocolate. Her rosy lips pressed together as she eyed the room – the people dancing, the chatter. She turned her gaze and her hues full upon a man who stared to her. She lifted her gaze and calmly walked over to him. She held her hand outward and he paused – and then took her hand. Morgan walked her out to the center of the floor and danced with him – though they exchanged no words, or even eye contact. When the song ended she held him close for a moment – her hand gripping his upper arm tightly. “You and your kind best leave...” she spoke with a low voice. “Or by Voxian’s word I will rip your tongue from your mouth so you never taste again” she shoved him back then and then smiled, bowing her head. The man stared to her and then let a low growl out, before slipping away swiftly.
She turned swiftly and plucked another man from the crowd and began to dance. After the song was over she made her way to another glass of wine. She lifted it upward and pulled a small flask from her bosom – she tipped it gently into her wine. A dash of red liquid came from the etched flask, and then she swirled the wine happily. Slipping away the flask she took a sip and smacked her lips together. In an instant her eyes flashed slightly, and then returned to normal. She took a long breath and let it slowly. The room suddenly slowed for her – and she could see every heart beating in the room. Some very fast, others calm. Though – there were 5 she could count – beating rapidly, not like humans. But rather.. closer to a dog… she took another sip then and licked her lips.
She watched as the man from before approached each one – and within moments all 5 of the men had left in a hurry… She smirked then and finished her wine before another dance.
When the music came to an end – Morgan found herself next to her brother, her arm locked with his as they stood in the crowd. The King addressed the people as they left to discuss – she turned to her brother and laughed. “Oh yes, I whispered sweet nothings to sway her sweet mind” she scoffed then and then she pulled him downward to her, as she was a few inches shorter than he. “Be wary, there are unwanted guests here that would do harm”
“Hmph...” he nodded and then stood upright – his attention moving back to the King and Queen. Jesper split away to join the others, for the selection.
Morgan stood within the crowd, her arms crossed as she watched the selection. A slight grin pierced her lips as Jesper was chosen, as she knew it to be so. She lifted her gaze and then removed her own mask as many others did. Her eyes glanced to the Prince Azer – who caught her eye as well. She smiled and bowed her head to him and then slipped away.
She was lead to a guest room, next to her brothers, where moments later her brother barged in. He spoke of the dances, and he talked until she could hardly stand it anymore, she ushered him away to his room where she finally sat at the edge of her bed. She let a deep sigh release from her lips and she pulled a book from her bag and lit a candle by her bedside. She slipped from her dress and into something more comfortable – and cracked open the book. Sleep rarely came to her… that was for certain.
The morning came swiftly, she had fallen asleep briefly but it was short lived. Her brother came barging in – asking if he looked good enough. She helped him prepare, and then he was off.
Jesper made his way to the breakfast, where he took a seat among the others. He peered across the table to the Princess, then to the King and Queen. His eyes drew to his opponents, and he studied them briefly. When it finally became his turn to speak – he tilted his head and then smiled. “I have something a little different – Where I come from there are little mountains that peak as high as yours. I know it is maybe childish but – I have never been Skiing before, and I know it is a favored sport amongst the Runik people. I was hoping rather than doing something I am gifted at – I would ask you, Princess, to teach me...” he leaned back briefly and then chuckled. “It may secretly be something I’ve always wanted to do, but it would honor me to be educated by only the finest” he bowed his head. He had heard that she was quite skilled on the slopes, a little tid bit of information he had gathered from the ball… asking of the customary local activities, it had slipped from one of the royals…
**
Meanwhile, Morgan had found herself receiving a tour of the castle. She lingered around in the knights training grounds. She had been talking with a knight – who held a bow infront of her, teaching her how to shoot. In truth she already had this skill, but faked it for an opportunity to get to know one of the Captains of the Guard. He stood with her as she fumbled with the bow. Exchanging laughs as she shot but the arrow fell short before the target… She looked less of the part – a woman wearing a partial dress that was tucked into leather black trousers, with tall boots to her knees. About her waist was black leathers from her belt. About her was a cape lined with fluffy grey fur, which clung to her as the wind shifted.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 0:44:33 GMT -5
Calista’s eyes lit with interest as Jesper spoke, a grin split her lips. “That sounds like a lovely time.” She replied, a sweet smile upon her lips, just as she’d replied to the others. Though it was clear that she was much more interested in teaching him her favored sport. As breakfast concluded she stood from the table. She would attend the other activities first, she chose to leave Jesper for last as she hoped to get the most time with him so that she could teach him without worrying about the other four.
Her first suitor had her in the snowy gardens of the castle. Prince Tyler. He was a kind gentlemen. He wasn’t entirely entertaining. He seemed to be following a written set of lines and conversation the entire time that he was with her. He seemed nervous even. It made Calista almost uncomfortable. Soon enough she rode through the forest with Sir Issac of Runik. He led her up a trail that pushed deep into the mountains. He showed her a hidden hot springs that held a beautiful view of the castle and city. She’d never seen it before. He was more than happy to share the spot with her and he told her that she was welcome to come back anytime she wanted. Up next was Prince Leon, he took her to the archery course within the castle.
Calista found herself distracted here. She saw the Captain of the knights, Cassius, working with a mysterious woman on her own archery skills. The laugher seemed to fill the area. The princess lifted the bow to Leon’s instruction. She looked to him with a soft smile. Calista was already quite good with a bow. It was something that both the king and queen believed she should have skill in. Swordplay on the other hand she could fight, but she wasn’t the best. But her skill with a bow? She lifted the bow and loosed the arrow with quick precision. Prince Leon stared to the perfect hit with a bit of a loose jaw. Calista laughed lightly. “You can attribute that to your excellent teaching if you’d like.” She spoke with a sly smile. Soon enough she was off to the next suitor. She sat for lunch with him. Sir Evan. He cooked her an extravagant meal that smelled delicious. He sat with her at the table and they talked about many things. His eyes always seemed trained in on her. His eyes were a strange color, one she’d never really seen before. A golden hue seemed to rest behind the green in his eyes. His features were sharp. He was confident. More confident than the prince’s had been. The princess had to show herself away from him as he took up quite a bit of her time. He insisted that she drink, but she declined. He seemed pushy. Insistent. She wasn’t sure where this had come from.
Calista stepped away and with Alice’s help she changed into her gear for skiing. She’d sent another servant to fit Jesper with boots and skis so that he could make it down the mountain. Then she had a carriage meet them out front of the castle to take them up the mountain. Calista climbed in, it felt good to be out of the corset. She let out a breath as she looked to him, it was exhausting entertaining everyone. “You know, you’re the only one that chose something that truly interests me.” She smirked to him slightly. She took a drink from a skin of water. “This should be a lot of fun, we have plenty of daylight left.” She grinned as she climbed from the carriage.
Calista began to explain how to ski to him. She kept him in the flat area of the mountain as she walked around him and adjusted his stance, she placed her hand on him several times to help adjust him. “Just like that.” She would say before she would move onto the next bit. She didn’t even strap into her own planks until she felt comfortable with how he stood on the skis. She explained how to stop, how to lean and turn. Soon enough she took him to the small learner’s hill. “If you fall, it’s alright.” She joked with him as she finally stepped into her skis. “Ready?” She asked with a smile as she watched him. She seemed much more relaxed than she had in the castle. She wasn’t around her family, so some of her royal demeanor fell slightly. She spent the entire afternoon with him until the sun was nearly set upon them. Calista reached forward to steady Jesper as he nearly fell, both her hands gripped onto his arms. She realized just how close she’d come to him, her eyes gazed up into his and she let out a soft laugh. Her cheeks flushed pink as she stepped back. “You did great. It takes time.” She spoke her hands still held onto his jacket.
**
Azer leaned against the post behind the archery range, he watched Morgan carefully, a grin upon his lips. Eventually he stepped down, “Cassius, allow me.” He spoke as he stepped next to Morgan. “We meet again it seems.” He spoke as he searched her eyes. “You look a little nervous when you pull the bow back. Here.” He stepped away for a moment and grasped a bow that was tucked away. Calista’s personal bow. It was much lighter, carefully crafted. He smiled and handed it to Morgan. “This should suit you better, you’re about the same height as my sister.” He turned then. “Now breathe.” He spoke as he nodded and looked to the target to allow her to shoot. He offered her pointers and chuckled playfully. “Would you be inclined to lunch m’lady?” He asked with a grin. Azer was incredibly focused in on this mystery woman that he’d met at the ball. “Oh, I never quite caught your name.” He spoke and searched her eyes. “I know you know me, but you may call me Azer.” He spoke as he began walking toward the dining hall for lunch.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 11:44:19 GMT -5
Morgan stood in the archery range – her eyes drifting away slightly as she noted the Princess had arrived. The Captain next to her stopped and watched as well, he even chuckled when the Princess shot perfectly. “Not many can outshoot the Princess” he spoke and then chuckled. It was not long before the Princess was gone – that one was a swift date.
It was just moments later that the dashing Prince stood behind her. She turned her gaze and then smiled “Prince Azer” she bowed her head and then smiled to him. She watched as Cassius nodded, bowing his head as well, and stepped to the side to watch. There was a tinge of jealousy in the Captains face, but respect none the less.
“Aye, the draw force is a little much for me...” she spoke as she looked to the bow that was handed to her. She lifted it and turned it side to side, she hummed softly. “Made by an elf” she spoke softly. The etchings in the wood were that of Elven style. She then turned towards one of the targets and placed her fingers upon the string and pulled it back. It moved fluidly – she lowered it and then drew an arrow and notched it. She turned her head as he watched her – and then she looked back. She released the bow with a breath and the arrow flew through the air with ease. It hit the right side of the target. She smirked then and drew back another. She felt his hand placed on her elbow – instructing her to raise the rear elbow slightly, and then she released as instructed. This time it got closer to the center. They shot several more until she was satisfied.
She held the bow back to him and smiled as he put it away. “Lunch sounds lovely, I am famished. All this shooting...” she smiled then and looked to him as he returned. “My name is Princess Morgan Fey Oneus, but you – may call me Morgan… I have accompanied my dear brother here, the thought of travel was too enticing to me” she locked her arm then with his as they walked towards the dining hall.
**
On the mountain side Jesper struggled to maintain his balance – though the Princess was helpful, and kind. He found himself moving forward now over time, though he took many tumbles to the ground. Though she seemingly was there to catch almost every tumble - As she had gripped him – steadying him – his eyes fell to hers, cascading over the wave of pink across her cheeks. “Well, You have spent the whole evening teaching me – and your lessons have been grand” he bowed his head to her. “Let me see what you can do though, take a moment to show off your skills” he spoke and then he peeled away and he slowly moved forward to the larger hill. “Go on – I’ll make my way down slowly, eh? Pizza right” he smirked and then watched her blaze down it with speed and skill. He started downward very slowly. Eventually he made his way to the bottom and he chuckled.
“You are very very good” he took his skiis off and then smirked. “Imagine – an entire battle in the mountains. You and your elite skiing squad, weaving and bobbing through the trees, bows at the ready. Hmmmm….” he pressed a finger to his chin. “No way you could lose” he smiled and then stepped towards her, as they were at the base of the mountain. “Well, it has been a honor to learn from the best in the Kingdom, and I had a lovely time. I hope you did too” he smirked and then they came to the carriage.
“Shit” he muttered and rushed forward. The driver and Knight were slaughtered, their blood pooled in the snow. He opened the buggy door and threw his skiis inside and drew a sword, which sat upright against one of the seats, one of the Knights... “This was some time ago” he spoke as he looked to the dead bodies. Claw marks across their bodies – armor completely demolished. “Lycans” he spoke through his teeth. “Come” he stepped over the two horses and unhook the carriage from their harness. “We need to go, my lady” he sheathed the sword and threw the scabbard across his back.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 12:38:06 GMT -5
A man stood at the back of a pub, he brushed red liquid from his arm. He was brute like, thick chops lined his jaw. He lifted a heavy mug with a thick foam cap to his lips and took a long drink. “You uh...missed a spot there.” Sir Evan spoke as he stepped up to the man, he pointed to his cheek where a droplet of blood remained. There were a few others, a blonde woman that had wild eyes leaned against the wall.
“Oh?” The brutish man questioned as he set his mug down. He brushed the drop away and then smirked. “It isn’t like you helped.” He said in a low growl. “You should have seen the look on their faces.” He cackled before he downed his ale.
“They pleaded for their lives whilst their princess resided upon the mountain with the prince of Oneus.” The blonde stepped forward, “It was beautiful. The prince didn’t even notice.” She took a long drink of her own ale. “We could have killed him.” Her eyes grew serious. “It would have been easy then.” She snarled. “Now he’s going to be suspecting our attack, brother.”
Sir Evan clenched his jaw slightly and shook his head. “No we can’t kill him….yet.” He smirked then. “I want to see the fear in his eyes.” He chuckled as he walked away. “Don’t get caught by that sister of his, hm?” He spoke over his shoulder as he left the pub.
**
Azer focused on Morgan as she spoke her full name, a grin split his lips and he playfully bowed before her. “Well, well...I am in the presence of a princess. Hm.” He took her hand and kissed the backside of it. “As if it were fate for us to meet last night and for I to find you this morning.” He winked to her. He was smooth, that was for certain. He glanced to the old grandfather clock as it chimed. “Perhaps not lunch.” He spoke as he glanced to the setting sun out the window. “I seem to have lost all sense of time while in your presence, Morgan.” He spoke in a charming voice. “We have time for an afternoon snack before dinner at least.” He smiled to her as he led her through the castle. Corridor after corridor. He brought her to his favorite place within the castle. It was a nook that overlooked the city, it had a beautiful balcony. A full bar even. A servant approached him and he nodded and without a word the woman stepped off to gather a snack plate.
Azer stepped behind the bar, “So, you like adventure hm?” He spoke with a smile. “Travel is something that is quite enticing.” He grinned as he poured two glasses of wine from a rather old bottle. It was a select reserve that normally only the royal family enjoyed. He swirled the wine within the glasses and stepped forward to a couch that was angled to look out over the city. A fireplace crackled from the corner as it heated the room. “Here you are.” He handed her the glass of wine, “I hope you enjoy.” He spoke as he looked to the beautiful view. Soon enough a servant approached and set down a charcuterie board before them filled with meats and cheeses, as well as crackers and breads. “Do you get to travel much with your brother? I hear that Oneus has been having some...Lycan problems?” He questioned as he searched her eyes. “If that’s too much to ask just ignore me.” He took a drink of his wine then before he seemed to study her.
**
Calista grinned as she took off down the mountain with skill. She would glance back to Jesper every now and again just to be sure that he was alright. When he met her at the bottom she had already removed her skis. She looked to him and a chuckle came over her lips. “You speak as if such a thing doesn’t already exist.” She winked then as they began walking back toward the carriage. She was about to comment on his compliment however she found herself staring to a bloody mess. “Lycans? In Runik….” Her brows tugged together and she shook her head. “No.” Her breaths had quickened. Her skis had fallen from her grasp. It was a nightmarish scene laid before her. Unlike her brother she had never witnessed death. The princess was taught how to defend herself, she knew her way around a bow...but she was not one to go to war. She was too precious to the kingdom. The king did not want to send her into the thick of battle, and the queen agreed. She felt frozen. Calista barely heard Jesper as he spoke urgently that they needed to go. The words were muffled, her breaths were so loud…her heart pounded within her ears.
“I...” She swallowed, fear. It was evident in her eyes. She forced herself to move. She grasped onto the harness of the horse and struggled to climb up, but she found her footing and was upon the horse moments later. She glanced to Jesper nervously before they took off down the mountain. Lycans in Runik. It was unheard of. They had been chased off years ago by the mages. They Lycans knew they were not welcome within the kingdom, for all they did was bring chaos. Why would Lycans be here now? But if not to steal her away for some plot…
Her heart pounded as she gripped onto the reigns of the horse. They raced down the path, her horse bobbed its head and breathed heavily, fear. Her eyes caught a glimpse of a shadowy blob just moments before it collided with Jesper’s horse. “Jesper!” She cried out as her horse reared. Calista fell from the back of the steed and it galloped away swiftly. The world spun as she fought to regain her breath, she’d landed flat on her back. She staggered to her feet to see blood splattered across the snow. The horse that Jesper had been on was slaughtered...a Lycan howled victoriously as it towered over Jesper. “No!” Calista cried as she rushed forward as the beast clawed toward the prince.
Without a second thought Calista held her hands before her. Two balls of fire formed in her palms. She tossed them at the Lycan just before it was able to attack the prince. Calista found herself between him and the Lycan as it snarled and looked to her with singed fur in the places that she’d hit. Her heart raced within her chest. Her mother had trained her for this moment, but...in all honesty she’d never thought that the moment would truly come. She had always been kept safe. Runik was safe. The Lycan lunged forward and gripped onto the princess. Her fingers curled into the thick fur of the creature as she cried out. Her back slammed against the ground as drool dripped from the fangs. Her eyes began to glow and moments later bolts of electricity came from her hands that held tightly to the beast. The massive amount of power that came from her fried the creature to a crisp. When all was said and done Calista found herself crushed beneath the body of the Lycan. She pushed against the body as her own body shook. Tears rolled over her cheeks as she trembled. Not only had she just killed a Lycan in Runik...she had just shown her gift to the prince...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 13:07:10 GMT -5
Morgan followed the Prince until they came upon a small nook of a room. She looked about and then smiled as a waiter came. She untied her cape and handed it to the waiter who whisked it away to be hung. She stepped over to the couch then and sat down, crossing her legs delicately as she did. Her hand lifted upward to accept the glass of wine that was offered to her. She swirled it slowly and inhaled it “Oh, a port?” she questioned and took a sip. She smacked her lips gently and smiled “Very good, is that cherry wood too?” she questioned and took another sip.
After a moment of admiring the wine she turned her icy blue eyes to Azer and she smirked. “Being cooped up in a castle is no fun” she grinned and took another sip. “I dont get to travel too frequently, unfortunately. This has been the greatest voyage so far, though sometimes I make my way to the neighboring kingdoms...” she took in a breath, a slight sigh. “Lycan problems indeed” she took a long swig then. “King Fjord embraces them, even pays them to terrorize his enemies. They are thick in Oneus” she took another long swig.
She reached forward then and took slice of cheese and bit into it. After finishing her slice she leaned back and looked to Azer for a long moment. “What do you think of your sister – being wedded off?” she questioned and took another sip of wine.
**
Jesper shouted out as his horse was attacked, he hit the ground and the wind was knocked from his chest. He rolled over to see the Lycan rearing downward to attack him. He held his arms up to block it but suddenly the Lyan was thrown to the side – the smell of burnt flesh filling the air. He slowly sat upwards to see the Princess’s grip on the Lycan – electricity flickering all over his body, burning him to a crisp.
When it was over he quickly shuffled over and helped pull the Lycan from her. He quickly slid a hand under her back and pulled her so that her head lay in his lap, cradled by his arms. “Hey” he whispered and pulled her closer. “It’s okay, it’s okay” he muttered. After a long moment and her tears slowly faded – he cupped her cheek and looked into her eyes, his thumb brushing a stream of tears away. “You saved my life” he spoke clearly. “I am in your debt...” he searched her hues for a long time. After the time passed he helped her up – it appeared they were without a horse, with still some distance to trek.
He lead her forward slowly, a hand about her arm to help her trudge through the snow. “I am terribly sorry...” he spoke softly. “this is not how I intended this day to go...” he looked over to her briefly. “Your powers – are incredible… I understand your discomfort of their display… I shall pretend as if I have never seen it” he bowed his head. “Come on” he lead her downward.
It was not long before two guards on horses came trotting forward, doing their rounds. “Princess?” they questioned as they came closer. “Are you okay?” he leaped from his horse and stepped forward. “You both need to hurry – a snow storm approaches. Take our horses” he and his partner stepped forward with the reigns to offer.
“Thank you…” Jesper spoke and looked to Calista, watching her mount and then he followed suit.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 14:24:38 GMT -5
“Ah yes a fine port. In fact you’re the first outside the family to enjoy it. But, it’s a special occasion to have a princess visit of Oneus.” He smiled and took a sip of his own wine. “You are a connoisseur hm? Very good note in taste. It is aged in a cherrywood barrel actually. This wine is some 200 years old. It’s been in the family a long time.” He leaned back against the couch, relaxing a bit as he took in her icy gaze. He was struck by her eyes. In fact that was what had made her so mysterious when he met her before. “For me most of my travel has been business. Keeping up with our allies, making sure that they are kept happy so as to not start a war. I’ve been on the battlefield a few times as well to defend Runik...though I do wish I could travel leisurely like the owner’s of some of the supply ships. Hm?”
He paused a moment when she mentioned his sister and he swirled his wine within the glass. A soft smile curved his lips. “It is what is best for our kingdom, is it not?” He looked to her a long moment. “Just as I will need to find myself a queen to rule at my side.” He seemed to think deeply again, his smile softened a bit becoming almost non-existent. “I don’t want to see her leave Runik. Especially if the suitor that is chosen does not have a safe home for her. She’s my little sister, I’m a bit protective of her.” He gave a bit of a grin then, “I’m sure your brother feels the same of you, he would want to keep you safe.” He swirled his wine a bit and took another sip before he ate a piece of meat and cheese. “I hope that she makes the right decision. Though, ultimately it will be up to my mother and father to determine if she has made a sound decision. At least, she isn’t being traditionally forced into a relationship with a suitor that she doesn’t know. My father doesn’t believe in such a thing, he wants her to be happy….so there’s that...” His brows furrowed slightly as there was as commotion from the hall.
“The horse came back with cuts on its side...the princess is on that mountain!” The words were hard to hear. “What the hell could have done this? Where is Calista?”
Azer stood then as he set his glass down. He looked to Morgan, a tinge of fear in his eyes. “If you’ll excuse me.” He spoke as he stepped from the room quickly. He nearly ran down the hall to meet with the knights that were clamoring about. “What’s going on?”
“My prince.” The knights bowed. “There seems to have been trouble upon the mountain. Calista has not returned.” The knight spoke quickly.
“What sort of trouble?” Azer questioned then.
“A beast...of some nature...it must have attacked...” The knight replied.
**
As Jesper pulled the Lycan from Calista she drew in a quick breath. His warm grasp was welcomed as she trembled. Her mind couldn’t quite grasp that Lycans were in Runik. There had been a time when she was a young child that the kingdom had issues with Lycans...but beyond that...the mountain was safe. She leaned into him and grasped onto his jacket as her body shuddered. He calmed her with his soft words. It felt like a lifetime passed before she stopped sobbing. As he helped her to her feet Calista gazed into his eyes. She truly had saved his life from the Lycan that seemed hellbent on killing him. It went for him...not her. She leaned against him as she sank into the soft snow as the trudged along. Though she didn’t speak, her mind was still racing along to the events. When he mentioned her powers her two toned eyes found his once again. She gave a slight nod. “We’ve kept it hidden so long...” She whispered, “from those outside of Runik. We did not want a suitor to bid for my hand simply for power...as the mages have given great power to Runik...” Her words were soft as she stumbled slightly in the snow. She shivered slightly as the cold set in around her body, the clouds darkened and snow began to fall from the skies. “We need to get back to the castle...” She gazed to the skies, and as if on cue the horses came from the distance with knights upon them. “Liam...” Calista spoke as she looked to the young knight. “There are Lycans...” Her voice was hushed as she spoke to him.
The knight searched her eyes and gave a nod. “We will get down from the mountain with you, we are right behind you.”
Calista drew in a breath before she climbed upon the horse with his help. She glanced to Jesper and gave a nod before they took off down the mountain. The ride down the mountain brought heavy snow. Luckily Calista knew the path well enough to keep them on track. As they arrived to the castle they were swarmed with knights that helped the princess down from her steed. The king and queen rushed forward and pulled her into their arms. Murielle seemed to check every inch of her daughter before her eyes fell upon Jesper. “Thank you for keeping her safe.” She searched the prince’s eyes a moment. “What happened up there?” She looked to her daughter as they were ushered into the castle.
“Calista.” Azer rushed from the castle and pulled his sister into a tight embrace. “You’re okay.” He breathed. “Is it true...Lycans?” He questioned quickly, his eyes full of worry.
Calista merely gave a nod to her brother as she clutched onto him. She allowed him to hold her there for a moment before she was whisked away into the castle by Alice to get her out of the dirtied clothing. Warner turned to Jesper, “I want you to join us for dinner Prince Oneus. You’ve saved the life of my daughter. We are in debt to you. I will send you with a servant to help get you cleaned up.” He noted the blood on Jesper’s clothing. “We can talk more about what happened upon the mountain later. For now I am just happy to see you both alive and unscathed.” The king turned then and stepped away with the queen behind him. He ordered the knights to double their guard.
Azer was the last that remained, “You must be pretty good with that sword to keep my sister safe from a Lycan.” He spoke as he watched Jesper closely. “Skilled in the art of hunting the beasts since Oneus is crawling with them.” He commented, though his voice was soft. He wasn’t trying to attack Jesper with his words in this moment. “Thank you for keeping her safe. I don’t know what I would do without her.” He searched Jesper’s eyes a moment. “I’ll see you at dinner.” He nodded then. “Oh and do bring your sister, hm?” He smirked slightly. “You don’t have to hide her away, she’s more than welcome. She’s a princess after all.” He spoke as he walked away.
**
Calista pulled her gear from her body her hands still trembled, she could feel the electricity as it surged through her body to the Lycan. She kept replaying that moment over and over again. Alice placed her hand on the princess’ back. “Hey.” She spoke with a soft smile. “Come on. Let’s get you dressed for dinner hm?” She ushered her over to the dresser. “Prince Jesper kept you safe at least…” Alice spoke after another long bout of silence.
“No, he nearly died. The Lycan would have killed him.” Calista whispered. “I used my magic. I killed it.” She looked to Alice then whom drew in a breath and nodded slightly. “It was like the Lycan was after him, like it intended on killing him...”
“They are beasts...perhaps he just happened to be the first target that the Lycan acquired.” Alice replied. “Does your mother know?” She questioned and watched Calista shake her head. “I won’t say a word.” She gave a gentle smile. “Here, come on then.” She helped her get dressed into her dinner gown. It was a black skirt that puffed out slightly with a blue silk top that was sleeveless and a black corset that cinched her waist in. She pulled on a pair of black gloves that reached just above her elbow before Alice placed her tiara upon her head. “Lovely.” Alice spoke with a gentle smile.
Calista offered her own gentle smile before she turned to leave the room. “Thank you Alice.” She spoke before she left down the corridors and stairs and found her way toward the dining hall. She paused though and stopped at a balcony where she stared out the glass to the storm that was pummeling the castle with snow. She could barely see the lights of the city below. She wrapped her arms around herself slightly as she let out a breath. She seemed frozen as her mind played over the attack over and over again.
**
Warner sat at the table with Murielle and Azer. He glanced to the grandfather clock and furrowed his brows slightly. “Where is Calista?” He questioned and glanced to his wife.
Murielle took a sip of her wine. “She’ll come. Just give her time, darling. She’s never been through something like this.” She glanced to the doors as they opened. Though it was not her daughter that walked inside the dining hall.
“I can go find her.” Azer spoke as he made to get up from his chair.
Murielle placed her hand over his. “Give her time. She needs this.” She spoke as she took another sip. “Welcome, Jesper.” She smiled to the prince. “Please, sit. Enjoy some wine. It is the best we have to offer. Let me thank you again for saving Calista.” Her smile was warm as she looked over the prince carefully. “She will be joining us shortly.” She nodded and took another sip of her wine.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 16:46:17 GMT -5
“My brother would surely try to keep me safe” she swirled her glass once more. “but I’m a little stubborn” she grinned and finished her glass. Though that is when there was a commotion – her head turned. Every word spoke – she could hear clearly, as if she was standing next to them. Her lips pressed into a thin line – Lycans. She stood and followed Azer, but she stopped at the door. A small pit in her stomach filled her as the thought of it. She closed her eyes briefly and leaned on the door. She could see then, her brother bounding down the mountainside on horseback. His vision channeled on the Princess as they rushed downward…
Morgan snapped from her vision and then she slipped from the doorway. She moved past the guards and then vanished. She appeared in a guest room – which had been locked from the inside. It was supposedly an empty guest room. Sitting in the chair was a large man with untamed hair, he was bound to the chair with chains. Morgan stepped forward and gripped a handful of hair and tilted his head back. The man’s mouth was covered – she cut the cloth off and yanked his head again. “You followed us here – why” she spat.
The man chuckled “It is always easiest to kill the wounded cattle that linger behind the crowd...” he licked his lips then. “There is a beautiful bounty on your head, lovely...” he shuffled in his chair, fighting against the chains.
“Oh, I bet there is…” she took her thumb and pressed it into his eye – crushing his eye until it was destroyed. Blood leaked down his face as he screamed in pain – she then used her hand to push his head back and she swiftly sliced his tongue, cutting it completely out. She stepped back then, a linen cloth in hand as she wiped her hand off… then the dagger. The man had stopped screaming – but instead his head lulled and he sobbed softly in pain.
She then pulled a key from her bosom and stepped over and unlocked the chains about his hands. “Fuck with my family, or Runik, and I will hunt each of you down and do the same...” she then vanished into dust.
***
As they came to the castle – Jesper slipped from his horse. He slowly approached the guards, and then Azer who tended to his sister. He watched her get whisked away… his face soft and even a hint of sadness lingering about them. He turned his gaze to the balcony above them – where he spotted his sister standing, her hands on the rails. Her pale skin was that of snow amongst the dark sky, and her piercing blue eyes stared to him. It was almost like he knew what she was going to say…
Jesper turned to Azer as he spoke “Yes.. despite it all, I apologize. You lost two guards as well, I am sorry...” he shook his head and then sighed. When Azer mentioned his sister – he chuckled slightly. He was not surprised to hear her hand in getting to know Azer, almost typical. “I will bring her then” he bowed his head and watched the Prince walk away.
Moments later he was in his chambers, Morgan walked in a few seconds later. “They are ballsy… the Lycans” she spoke.
“Yes, they tried to kill me… for certain” he sighed.
“What happened up there?” she questioned.
“The Lycan lost… let’s just put it at that..” he pulled his bloodied jacket off and washed his hands in the bucket.
“Hmm… a poor liar” she crossed her arms.
“The Prince wants you to come to do Dinner...” Jesper raised a brow as he cleaned up. “You have been flirting with the Prince hm?” he chuckled.
“Oh, just incase you drop the ball, dear brother” she chuckled. “Besides, he is rather handsome...” she stepped forward “I fear we put this Kingdom in danger” she spoke.
“Indeed, but it is why we also need their help...” he turned to her. “We cannot leave…” he sighed “Lets get ready..”
***
The two walked into the dining hall. Jesper wore a military style jacket with golden stitching and trim, he wore a side cape with his family’s crest in the center of it. It was simple but still royal. Meanwhile Morgan wore a red dress with golden flowers stitched into the collar, it was low and revealing, the same floral pattern existed at the end of the sleeves, and also down one leg. She wore a golden belt, which matched the golden head piece that her hair was weaved about, to create a mass of braids that tied into a bun atop her head in a complicated manner.
She slowly made her way to the table and took a seat. Between the two – it was her that showed more power and prowess, she normally stole the attention in the room from her brother… She sat and looked to her brother, who followed after her. “Evening, My King and Queen” she smiled and looked the Queen who motioned for the wine to be poured.
Jesper lifted his glass and swirled it – then he took a sip. “Excellent, wow – a very fine glass of wine” he stared to the glass and took another sip… He set the glass down and took in a slow breath. “I am truly sorry that it happened in the first place...” he turned his gaze to the doors which opened – revealing the Prince and Princess. Jesper stood from his seat and bowed his head to the Princess. He stayed standing until she took a seat, and then he sat down once again. The ultimate showing of respect, even when others did not follow suit.
Morgan lifted the wine and took a sip. “So it is true then, Lycans?” she spoke softly and took a sip. “It appears they follow in our wake” she set the glass down. “Our people fight with them daily, and this opportunity to strike – where we are least expecting it – sounds like quite the tactic” she looked to the King and Queen once more. “I apologize – I have not introduced myself. I am Morgan Fey Oneus, sister to my dear brother… Azer has asked me to join, and I am honored to be here” she lifted her glass and smiled “cheers to the safety of my brother, and of course Princes Calistra” she smiled and took a sip.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 18:25:21 GMT -5
When the two entered the room Azer stood. “I’m going to go get her.” He spoke as he looked to his mother. “To make sure she is okay.” He nodded his head to the two before he slipped from the room. Azer made his way through the castle and found his sister standing at the balcony window. He slowed his pace and bit his lip slightly. “We….uh...we’re all worried about you, Jade.” He spoke her middle name his blue eyes focused on her.
Calista turned her head to look to her brother, she let out a long breath. “Hm.” She responded. “I hadn’t realized I was standing here so long...” She searched his eyes a moment. “Shall we?” She spoke as she walked down the hall toward the dining hall.
“Hey, wait up.” Azer rushed to catch up to her just as his sister pushed the doors open. He frowned slightly before he placed a smile upon his face as they entered the room. His eyes honed in on Morgan for a moment before he took his place at the table.
The king cleared his throat, “Calista.” He smiled to her as she took her seat next to him. “We are truly thankful that you were there to protect our daughter as you did.” He nodded and took a sip of his wine. “I cannot tell you the last time we have had a Lycan in Runik…”
Calista stared to Morgan, the mysterious woman. Her eyes looked over the woman’s revealing dress, the red cloth. Her brows furrowed slightly when she spoke of the Lycans. The attack flashed before her eyes and she drew in a breath, her heart quickened slightly. Her eyes fell away from Morgan. She reached forward and lifted her glass of wine and took a sip from it.
Murielle was focused upon the woman. “Ah welcome princess.” She spoke as she studied her. “It is an honor to have both of the Oneus descendants within our kingdom.” She looked to her husband a moment before she took a long drink of her wine. “I’ve heard of the Lycan problems that Oneus is facing...” Her expression was much more serious now. “Well...if the Lycans have followed you two here, then I can certainly expect us to see more. Warner has already ordered for the guard to be doubled, we will keep you both safe...” She glanced to her daughter. “Calista...” She spoke softly and placed her hand over her daughter’s hand. “We will keep you safe, the Lycans know that they are not welcome in Runik. We have pushed them out before, we can do it again.” She took another drink from her wine and leaned back in her chair as food was placed before them. Perfectly put together plates with sauce drizzled over the top. It was beautiful presentation.
Warner looked to the two, his eyes a bit cold. “If you have such trouble with the Lycans in Oneus what made you think that they would not follow you here?” He watched the two, his eyes moved back and forth. “If it is true that the Lycans have followed you to Runik, what is it going to take to make them leave?” He leaned forward slightly and sipped his wine. “And why do the Lycans wish to come all the way to Runik to attack you? Has your father lost his alliance with the neighboring kingdoms?” His questions were to the point. He took a bite of his food. “Calista will need a suitor that can protect her. I’m not sending her to marry a man that lives within a war zone...” He stared at Jesper a long moment.
Azer took in a breath as he looked to Jesper and then to Morgan. “Perhaps it is a fluke father.” He spoke up. “You know Lycans, they only wish to bring chaos. Perhaps they have come simply because of the festival. An easy way in, to get close to the princess and the royal family. We cannot say that we have not had our troubles with Lycans in the past. Just as mother spoke, we have had to run them off before...” He nodded then and took a drink of his wine before he took a few bites from his food.
“If the lycans were here merely to kill Jesper and his sister...” Calista spoke her eyes looked to Jesper. “Why would the Lycan have attacked me instead of him?” She questioned and looked to her father then. It was a blatant lie. But, no one but her and Jesper knew the truth. “He protected me father. I do not have a scratch on me, I do not know if I could say the same for the other suitors...but we cannot blame the Kingdom of Oneus for the lycans presence. Such a blame would be completely foolish.” Her royal tone rang in the room as she spoke. She took command. It was evident that she had been raised by the king and queen to be a ruler one day. “Now, shall we enjoy dinner?” She spoke as she lifted her glass of wine and took a drink.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 18:40:27 GMT -5
Jesper looked to the King as he asked his questions. He allowed the conversation grow before he calmly provided his input. “If I may, Princess…” he smiled and then looked to the King with serious eyes. “The Lycans terrorize our lands, this is the truth. We have not been able to repel them, as Oneus is in the middle of the lands, when we defeat the Lycans – surely a new threat will arise. It is the nature of the beast… While we covet the elements of the mountains, and control major trades – it is our alliances that keep us impenetrable...” he calmly placed his hands together infront of him, thinking of his next words. “Runik has never been our enemy, but rather a neutral party. Our trades with you are minimal… This opportunity before us pays both parties… For assistance in our strength, and knowledge, we would offer trade and royalties...which, is nearly expected” he sat back in his chair briefly then, his eyes looking to the Princess. “In truth, Runik is the safest place for you to be. There is no stronger Kingdom than yourself...” his eyes fell back to the King. “If your worry was her safety, than perhaps marriage is not the best, as every Kingdom is struggling...”
Jesper looked to the waiters who brought the food. “I suppose, that is all I had to say, on the behalf of my Kingdom” he smiled then.
“Well said, brother” Morgan smiled and then looked to the meal before her. “May I say the blessing?” she questioned softly and waited for the agreement.
“To our kind Gods – I ask that you bless our dinner, and the people whom we share it with. To bless us with joy and happiness, safety and care – not only to those before me, but all who breath the Runik air.” she nodded. “amen”
“Amen” Jesper spoke and then he chuckled just after. “Did you mean for that to rhyme?” he questioned.
“I’m a natural poet” she smirked and then rose her glass and took a sip.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 19:38:53 GMT -5
Calista looked to Jesper as he spoke up. He didn’t need her protection, he didn’t need her to put a stop to her father’s political statements. In fact, he put her father in his place much better than many of the nobles that she’d met in her life. She listened to him as he spoke of their endless problems with the Lycans. It was true, if one problem was squashed out, another would arise. Even in Runik that was the case. As much as Runik had the power the kingdom had to show its power to the other kingdoms every now and again. She looked to her father whom had a bit of a smirk upon his lips. He’d hoped that Jesper would speak up and argue his side. Warner gave a nod, “Well stated.” He responded and took a long drink of his wine. “Much better stated than I anticipated.” He raised his glass with a grin then. Jesper had won points with the king in that moment.
Murielle also gave a nod, she had been silently listening to the table. “We only wish to see Calista wedded to a suitor that can keep her safe. We both know that the other kingdoms have their own problems….” She searched Jesper’s eyes a moment a soft smile upon her lips. “To trade with Oneus would be quite the advantage. Our troops would provide your kingdom with the much needed reinforcement to push out the Lycans so that they are no longer a problem for you.” She looked to her plate of food. Then the queen brought her eyes to Morgan whom offered to say the blessing. “Yes, please.” She smiled. Morgan stole the attention of the room with her blessing. It was well said and flowed beautifully as if she had rehearsed it in front of a mirror hundreds of times. “Amen.” The sound came from everyone around the table.
Azer chuckled to Morgan’s comment. “A skilled poet at that.” He smirked as he looked to her. “A nice change of pace, eh Calista?” He glanced to his sister.
Calista gave a soft smile and nodded, “Yes, I’m not sure our normal prayers can hold up to the excellence of such a poem.” She let out a soft chuckle as she cracked a larger smile then.
Murielle even let out a small chuckle as she began to eat her food. “Perhaps we need to learn from you, Morgan.” She spoke and then looked to her husband.
Warner smirked slightly as he began to eat. It was nice to have guests at their table. It was a rare occurrence to be in the presence of other royalty. As the meal moved on they spoke of idle banter. Life around Runik. The trades that they had made with other kingdoms. Calista seemed to grow bored of the content, though truthfully her mind was playing over the Lycan attack again. The first real Lycan that she’d ever seen. She drew her brows together slightly, her fork rest against her plate, she hadn’t touched much of her food this evening.
Azer noticed his sister from across the table, his smile fell slightly, though he didn’t draw attention to it. “So how about the competition tomorrow eh?” He grinned. “A bit of swordplay? I bet Jesper here has quite the footwork.” He motioned to the prince with a chuckle.
**
“You idiots.” Sir Evan snarled, his fangs showed as he gripped the throat of the blonde lycan. “How dare you go against my orders. I told you not to attack them. Who had such a bright idea to try to kill the prince?” They were in an old lodge within the city of Runik.
The female lycan snarled and shoved him back. “He did it on his own.” She bared her fangs. “He thought he could take the prince out. Clearly they expected us or he wouldn’t have been able to kill our brethren.” She shoved Sir Evan again. “So why don’t you get closer to the princess? Hm?”
“Now the princess is having dinner with Jesper! Now the king and queen are falling for him. He’s in the limelight while I am in the shadows with you idiots! Why did King Fijord send you idiots with me? The weak of the pack.” He growled deeply. “Now I’ll have to fight even harder to gain her attention so that I can gain her affection and trick her into selecting me.” He turned and rushed from the lodge his blood boiling.
**
As the dinner concluded Calista stood, she glanced to Morgan and then to Jesper. “Would...”
“Let’s go enjoy some drinks, relax, hm? After that dinner we need a few more.” Azer spoke after the king and queen had left the dining hall. “Come on.” He winked to Morgan and took her hand into the nook of his elbow. “Come on, dear sister.” He glanced over his shoulder.
Calista drew in a breath, she looked to Jesper a moment and gave a soft smile. She wasn’t normally the party type, her brother on the other hand could drink until oblivion. She’d apparently missed out on that trait. “Besides all of the lycans...what is Oneus like?” She asked as she walked down the hallway behind her brother and Morgan, her eyes looked to the woman curiously. There was just something about her. Something she couldn’t quite place.
They came around a corner and bumped into Sir Evan. “Princess.” He bowed deeply and kissed the back of her hand. “I heard what happened. How terrifying.” He placed his hand on his chest, his look was of concern. He then looked to Jesper. “You aren’t going to hog her attention all evening are you?” He questioned as he eyed him.
Calista drew her brows together. “I have a say in whom I spend my evening with.” She spoke her two toned eyes honed in on the knight. “He saved my life today, so he deserves my attention. Don’t you think?” She questioned and shook her head. “Good evening, Sir Evan.” She stepped around him to catch up with her brother.
Sir Evan turned, his brows tucked together. “Right. Who says he didn’t plan it.” He scoffed as he turned and walked down the hallway toward the guest rooms. He knew he’d said it loud enough for Calista to hear. He wanted to plant that thought in her mind. The prince that came from a kingdom that had Lycan problems...brought a Lycan to make it look as though he could protect the princess. To gain the attention of the king and queen. Yes. It was a good seed to plant in her mind.
Azer poured four glasses of wine and he sat on the couch. “Ah...see this is much better.” He smiled. “This storm is bad...” He couldn’t see the lights from the city anymore.
Calista took her glass of wine and took a long drink from it before she sat on the other couch. Her eyes looked to the flickering flames of the fire. The comment that Sir Evan had made had the gears turning within her mind. She seemed lost in thought as she began to wonder if Jesper had put his life in danger on purpose. Just to get attention...
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 12, 2020 22:43:37 GMT -5
The rest of dinner was filled with idle banter and boring conversation, as royals do. Morgan found herself tuning out – her thoughts filling of the lycans, and an undying desire within her. She could feel the uneasy stirring of something amiss – something she could not predict, unlike most things. When dinner was over – Azer suggested more wine – to which she could not say no. After bidding farewells to the King and Queen – she stood and followed the crew into the hallways.
Rounding the corner – they came upon a man, Sir Evan it was. Morgan’s brows pulled together suddenly – she remembered him from the ball. She did not recognize his face – but rather his smell. She looked to her brother – he turned his gaze to her, he could tell her face easily. He nodded slightly and then turned back towards the man.
Though Morgan heard the last words of Evan as he walked away. She bit her lip slightly, but felt the touch of her brothers hand upon her arm. Soon enough they were in a cozy room, sitting by the fire and looking out to the city – covered in a beautiful sheet of white. The snow was coming down steadily now…
Morgan slipped away for a brief moment and pulled a small flask out from an inner pocket – she took a swig and put it away swiftly. She closed her eyes and let a breath release, and then returned back to the couchside.
“You alright sister?” Jesper questioned, though he knew quite well.
“Yes, just needed to adjust” she chuckled and drew in a breath. “these dresses squeeze so tightly” she sat down and crossed her legs, accepting the glass of wine that was offered to her. “Mm – to answer your question, Calistra, Oneus is quite the bustling of a place. The city itself is large – many buildings packed in together. And we have Guild avenue, which is literally one large street with guild hall after guild hall. The amount of pride in themselves, and Oneus alone is quite stunning. There are always events – and the city never sleeps” she chuckled. “Of course, quirks and flaws all the same, it never sleeps and thus trouble is almost always stirring. Usually the drunken kind” she chuckled and shook her head. “but – what I love is the competitions that are so frequent, between sparring, archery, to who has the fattest pig in town” she chuckled and took a swig. “It is different than here, for certain”
She leaned back then “mm, I am talking too much...” she looked out the window now. “Here it is… peaceful, and quiet. I can almost feel the ancient spirits of this place humming through the walls, and theres a sort of...mystical sense to the lands… its breath taking, and of course full of equally breath taking people” she raised her glass as a toast and took another sip. “Who do you think, brother?”
Jester looked to her – he appeared as if he was in deep thought. He smiled weakly and nodded “Yes, peaceful is the word. It, well, was – one of the first times I have slept without a little bit of fear. I suppose, until that all changed” he sighed then and set his untouched glass down. “It is too frustrating – to be hunted constantly. I dream of a day I can just… relax and not worry about it all.” he sighed. “And now I put innocent people in harms way over it” he stood then and paced slightly.
“Oh how dreadful - “
“You can’t just fill it with words, Morgan, and make my worries go away.” Jesper cut her off.
Morgan cleared her throat and nodded slightly. “I suppose you are right, Gods forbid you have feelings” she stood then and looked out to the city. “Perhaps you need some time to steam off, hm?” she questioned. “A nights rest after the doozy of a day?”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 13, 2020 17:22:40 GMT -5
As they entered the room Azer was busy pouring a glass for everyone. While Calista was pre-occupied with the words of Sir Evan. The seed was planted and she had the thought running through her mind, twisting the reality of it. Creating a new truth. She drew her brows together slightly as she noticed Morgan step away from the group, she seemed to pull at something and then Calista could see the long breath that the woman released from her body. The princess’ two toned eyes played over the woman as she came to her brother’s side and sat upon the couch, her brow was slightly raised as Morgan claimed she was adjusting herself. It didn’t quite look like that was what she was doing. Calista could have sworn she saw the ever so slight tip of the woman’s head. Drugs perhaps? She wasn’t quite sure what the nobles were into in the other Kingdoms, but she had heard stories.
Azer let out a chuckle to Morgan’s comment, “Perhaps we should do away with such things then.” He smirked to her. It was a sly bit of flirting.
Calista shot her brother a glaring look after his comment, though not a word came over her lips. She took a sip from her wine and leaned back against the couch. Her eyes moved to the flickering flames of the fire and when Morgan began to speak her two toned eyes fell upon the woman once again. She had a focused stare upon her as she listened to her story of Oneus. Of the festivities and the pride of the city. That was something that was nice to hear. Another kingdom was just as active as Runik. Though with Oneus being second in strength she couldn’t expect much less in all honesty. The part that caught her attention was the moment that Morgan spoke that trouble was always stirring. That troubled the princess, and the expression on her face showed that, that bothered her. Even if only for a moment.
“You’re not talking too much.” Azer chuckled with a smirk upon his lips. “Oneus sounds rather adventurous.” He took a long drink from his glass.
Calista didn’t comment. Her eyes watched the woman as she continued to speak. Though the princess did smile a bit when Morgan spoke of the people of Runik, and how breathtaking everything was. She raised her glass and both her and her brother smiled politely. “Yes, what do you think of Runik?” Calista spoke as she looked to Jesper, her eyes trained in on him now.
Azer glanced to Morgan a smirk upon his lips. He took a drink of his wine as his sky blue eyes played over her for a moment. “Mystical is a word that a lot of our visitors use to describe Runik.” He commented. “It goes with the territory I suppose. The Fae gifted these lands to our family centuries ago for helping them in a war against demons. Believe it or not.” He grinned then before he turned his attention to Jesper.
Calista watched her brother a moment, his smirking to Morgan was rather interesting to her. She’d never seen him ‘try’ so hard to be charming. It was entertaining to say the least. Calista turned her attention back to Jesper as he began to speak of the peaceful nature of Runik. How he ranted about the Lycans caused her to tilt her head. Was he being overly dramatic? Was he acting that way because he had paid off the Lycans to cause the chaos? Her eyes snapped to Morgan as she spoke, she moved her gaze back and forth between the two.
“Dreadful is right.” Azer smirked as he looked to Jesper. “You can’t allow everything to fall upon your shoulders. Oh, and you can sleep without fear here in Runik, our royal guard won’t allow harm to befall you. Especially after what happened today.” He sighed slightly and looked to his empty glass. “I suppose that you two must be exhausted hm?” He looked to Calista, both brows raised. It seemed to be more of a statement rather than a question.
“No. No I don’t really feel tired.” Calista spoke she took a sip from her glass of wine. “I can’t stop thinking about the Lycan...” She finally spoke after a moment, her soft smile had faded. “You are both so brave...to deal with such creatures...” She let out a long breath. “I could not imagine having to fend for my home day in and out. To not be able to lay upon my pillow and feel safe...how brave you must be to endure it.”
Azer watched his sister as he stood. “You seem rather exhausted if you ask me.” He stepped over to the window. “Siblings.” He rolled his eyes and then smirked to Morgan as he looked to the huge flakes of snow that blanketed over Runik.
Calista pressed her lips together as she stood and set her empty glass down upon the table. “I’ll go.” She spoke before she stepped from the room, her heels clicked down the hallway as she left. Azer had a way of being an ass to her when he didn’t get what he wanted. She’d grown up with that, she knew when she wasn’t welcome, so rather than fight with it, she’d just leave.
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