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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 20, 2020 0:01:40 GMT -5
“As well as I can be. It’s only a few bruises….a broken rib, the physician says that I will recover.” Calista gave a weak smile. She nodded then, “Of course, he was still sleeping. Wish him well for me.” She spoke as she stepped down the hallway to return to her quarters. She climbed the stairs and pushed the door to her room open as she held her hand to her side. She grit her teeth slightly.
“Princess.” Alice spoke as she stepped forward. “You...you’re hurt...” She furrowed her brows slightly as she looked over the bruising.
“I’m alright.” Calista spoke, “Just some tea. That’s all I need.” She gave a weak smile as she moved to sit near the balcony. Her eyes looked out into the storm.
“What happened?” Alice asked as she moved to prepare the water for the tea within the fireplace.
“I...really don’t want to talk about it Alice.” Calista spoke softly, “I’m sure you understand. I’ll make the tea, just, leave me for the evening.”
Alice paused for a moment, “Of course, your highness...” She bowed deeply and stepped from the room.
Calista took in a deep breath as she watched Alice leave. She stepped to the kettle and withdrew it from the flame. Her eyes began to glow as she held her hand to the kettle and the water instantly began to boil. She poured the tea into two mugs just as a knock came from the door. The princess stepped across her room and pulled the door open, “Ah Morgan.” She spoke with a soft smile, “Come in. I just made the tea.” She stepped across the room and grasped the mugs. The princess held a mug to Morgan before she stepped to the couch and sat down. She pulled her legs up on the couch and she took a sip from her steaming tea. “What did you mean by cursed?” She questioned after a moment of silence. “I’ve read of the Nosferatu Vampiris...are you not of the ancients? It isn’t anything like the fables of vampires that are sensitive to garlic and the sun.” She spoke with a curious gaze in her eyes.
She then paused a moment, “I...haven’t gotten the chance to thank you...for coming to save me...if you had not come I fear the worst may have happened.” She stood and stepped to the window of the balcony to look outside. She then furrowed her brows slightly. “How long do we have until more lycans come?” She questioned, her eyes full of worry.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 20, 2020 11:25:03 GMT -5
Morgan smiled as Calista opened the door – she reached forward to the mug and stepped inside. She took a small sip of the tea and let out a small sigh. She listened to Calista’s question and then she smirked. “You are a pretty smart girl” she took another sip and sat down on the seat across from her. “The weak ones are” she chuckled. “Those blood lines have died out. I am of ancient lineage, my sire being of the original clans” she took a sip once more. “I am young in comparison, 137 years old, where as my sire is over 600” she took in a breath. “Gifted, but not quite like you, and cursed because I cannot perish, and my blood lust does drive my nature. Everyday is a fight to contain the monster inside of me, vampires are no different than Lycans, the primal drive often manipulates most” she took a long sip. “I have done years of study and practice to control myself”
She released a sigh. “The worst would have been – you would have blown them to bits, only after a slight moment of abuse” she chuckled, she watched Calista stand and make her way to the balcony.
“It will take time for word to return to their leader, and then a dispatch of men upon the ship. We will see a ship leave port tonight, no doubt, and we will have roughly 2 weeks before we see their return” she set her tea down and suddenly disappeared from her position – a slight cloud of shadows in her wake. She reappeared next to Calista, grinning as she did so. “It is nice to get to be a little free” she smirked.
“I must tell you..” she leaned against the railing then. “Your father has offered your hand to my brother, accepting it for you...” she sucked in a breath. “He feels there is a debt to be paid, but I disagree. The Lycans are here because I am here, and my brother. None of this would have happened if we had not come” she glanced to Calista. “We knew better, and took the risk anyways, it is not fair to consume the glory for cleaning up the mess we made anyways” she shook her head. “But he is set in his thought… I figured you should know. This… was not how I wanted it to go”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 20, 2020 13:55:28 GMT -5
Calista gave a slight chuckle, a bit of a smirk upon her lips. “What else do I have to do besides read the literature within our library? Most of my life has been spent within the walls of the library. I’ve always had a thirst for knowledge. Besides, it fills the lonely nature of being a princess. I’m sure you understand.” She gave a soft smile after her last comment before she fell quiet to listen to Morgan’s explanation. It was interesting to hear that there were weak and strong creatures of her type. When Morgan spoke of her age Calista’s brows raised slightly. Certainly she expected the princess to be older than she looked but to actually hear the number…
As Morgan spoke of the blood lust questions began to run through Calista’s mind. What exactly did Morgan do to place her blood lust at bay? She began to wonder how many lives Morgan had taken due to her need for blood. “It must take quite some control, if you claim that you are no different than the lycans.” Calista spoke, her voice soft, her eyes played over Morgan for a moment before she tore them away to look to the city. A soft smirk curved up the princess’ lips when Morgan spoke that she would have blown the lycans to bits. “Perhaps. Killing isn’t really something that I am accustomed to. In fact the first blood upon my hands was yesterday on the mountain. I’m sure if you knew of my magic...you already know it was not your brother whom killed the Lycan that attacked us.” She pressed her lips together for a moment as she drew in a breath. She took a sip of her tea as her two toned eyes looked to Morgan. “I wasn’t raised to be a weapon of war. My mother was very careful about that. She hid my gift from the world and kept a tight seal upon it. She’s made me afraid to use my powers in front of others with her stories of what happened to her when she was younger...or the stories of what happened to her ancestors back during the Great Avalonia War...”
The princess gave a slight nod when Morgan mentioned the time frame that they would be set upon. 2 weeks. “That isn’t much time at all.” Calista spoke and glanced to Morgan just as she disappeared. Her eyes widened slightly and her power swelled within her instinctively. Her eyes glowed the color of embers as she looked to Morgan, though the glow went away quickly. “I’ll have to get used to that.” She let out a soft laugh, “I’m a bit...jumpy...I’m sure you understand.” She gave a weak smile before Morgan spoke the next bit.
The king had offered her hand. Without any counsel of her own. Her smile from her expression faded as the words cascaded from the princess of Oneus’ lips. She moved to sit upon the couch, her hand absentmindedly stirred the tea within her mug. “So that’s it then.” She spoke after several moments of silence. Hearing it made it that much more real. Calista knew that hse would be wed, but it all felt like something that was so far in the future. Now that her father had made a decision...the ball was rolling down the mountainside and with each passing moment it would gain speed. There was no stopping it. Calista knew that she couldn’t stop what had already been set in motion. “Well.” She spoke as a smile curved up her lips once again. “At least I’ll be in good company.” She looked to Morgan and let out a bit of a chuckle. “I don’t know who’s company I enjoy more, you or your brother.” She smirked a bit and then shook her head. “The only connections I’ve ever had were my brother and my servant Alice. You can understand that it is a nice change in pace to speak to someone outside of Runik.”
Calista stood and stepped over to the pot of hot tea and poured herself another glass. She turned then and the rug next to the fireplace caught her foot. The princess let out a slight cry as she fell forward, the mug of tea cascaded toward the ground with her. She didn’t have time to react as the mug shattered and she slammed into the ground. Calista winced slightly as she pushed against the ground. “My brother has always said that I was the one with the clumsy streak.” She spoke as she felt something running down her arm. A piece of the mug had sliced into her arm causing her blood to run over her skin. The princess stepped over and grasped a towel to press against the cut, drops of blood upon the floor in her wake.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 23, 2020 18:50:02 GMT -5
Morgan chuckled “He actually did not tell then, but I knew he was a poor liar.” she raised a brow. “He is very loyal to you. Typically he tells me everything… to keep that secret even from me...” she looked to the woman then and took in a breath. “I know what it is like to hide the truth” she sighed then. “Especially when you have such power… I’ve heard from other mages – what magic can do to you, especially if gone ignored. It is as dangerous to you as it can be for everyone else. A safe mage – is one who can control the power” she looked to her briefly and then back out.
“My abilities don’t quite work like yours, but I can imagine it...” she glanced to the Princess as she discovered the truth of her hand. She frowned slightly – she knew it was not easy to be handed over like a trophy. She followed her into the room once more to retrieve another glass of tea. Though it was then that the Princess fell. She held her hand forward – as if to help, but it all happened swiftly.
The next she knew – a sweet scent hit the air. Like that of a fresh pie in the window, drawing her closer. She felt a hunger within her stir, her eyes looking forward to the fresh red blood. She stiffened and her fist squeezed shut. “You are hurt” she spoke weakly and stood still. She grit her teeth then – her eyes suddenly flashing a dark black color, no longer the fresh icy blue.
She teleported suddenly and gripped the woman’s wrist. She moved a hand forward and brushed the bit of blood with her thumb – smearing it across Calista’s pale skin. Her grip was tight – her veins bulging in her forehead and neck as she fought herself. “Damnit” she spoke through her teeth – two fangs pointed downward. “Alice!” she called out – and then suddenly vanished.
A few seconds passed and the maid opened the door. “Yes my – you are hurt!” she rushed over – grasping the towel from her and dabbing at the blood…
Morgan reappeared in the kitchen of the castle. A young maid stood washing dishes at the round wooden bucket. “Hello?” she questioned as she turned her head. Morgan suddenly appeared next to her and she smiled.
“Shh” she spoke softly and placed a hand over the woman’s eyes – instantly the woman fell asleep, collapsing in Morgans hands. She leaned down then and drew upon her neck – a healthy dose of blood, but not too much. She leaned back, holding the woman – a bit of blood about her lips. Then she reached forward and touched the two holes on the woman’s neck – and it faded away…
“Thank you” she whispered and slowly set the woman down. She would wake later – confused, not remembering anything of the encounter…
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 23, 2020 19:40:23 GMT -5
Calista had a curious gaze in her eyes as Morgan spoke of her brother. He wasn’t one to lie to the princess of Oneus, and yet he had hidden the truth. A soft smile curved up her lips to this, perhaps he wasn’t so bad after all. Though, her mind kept playing the dream she’d had the night before. Was this truly all their doing? She felt as though Morgan wouldn’t do such a thing, for some reason she trusted this woman that stood before her. “Hm, yes, I’ve had a few accidents over the years...my mother first discovered that I had magic when I lit the curtains of our dining room on fire...it wasn’t intentional, I’m not even sure I understood what was going on. I was very young.” She spoke with a soft sigh.
The next moments were tense. Calista looked up from her cut arm as Morgan spoke, “Yes...I...” She saw Morgan’s eyes turn black and a pit filled her stomach. Fear gripped her. When Morgan teleported and gripped onto her, her own eyes began to glow. Her heart pounded within her ears, as her breaths shook. “Morgan...” She pulled against her arm. Her eyes churned with fire as she grit her teeth. She couldn’t do anything but stare at Morgan. It was as if something gripped over her and froze her in place. Fear perhaps. Her lips parted once again as she went to speak, though Morgan had called out to Alice and just a moment later Morgan had vanished. She stumbled back slightly and gripped her arm. “Yes, yes I fell.” She replied weakly, she couldn’t get the thought of Morgan’s eyes from her mind.
Alice rushed forward and wrapped a towel around the princess’ arm. “Come, come. We must get you to the physician. Hm?” She glanced about slightly. “Where…”
“She left awhile ago.” The princess replied quickly. She didn’t want to draw Morgan any attention. She gripped her arm as it burned slightly. She could still feel Morgan’s hold on her wrist. Her strength was surprising. The princess was ushered through the castle by Alice, the blood soaked into the towel and dripped upon the floor a few times as they made their way to the physician on the other side of the castle.
“We need help.” Alice spoke as they entered the room.
The grey haired man lifted his eyes from his desk. “Gods. Princess. What’s happened?” He questioned as he stood and ushered her to a chair. He pulled the towel from her arm and his brows scrunched together. “How did this happen?” He questioned as he very quickly began to gather supplies.
“I fell and my tea cup shattered. Just clumsy I...I’m a bit shaken after everything that happened today...” She admitted.
The physician, Julius, stared to her a moment. “Deep breath.” He spoke as he poured a liquid over the wound. Calista let out a soft whimper and looked away as she grit her teeth. “I shall prepare you a potion for this evening, so that you may rest. This wound is deep, you must have landed just right...” He noted the bruising upon her wrist and drew his brows together slightly, though he didn’t speak of it. “Alice, fetch me the spool there.” He pointed to a spool that was across the room that held thin twine and a needle poked into the top of it. He poured another liquid upon the wound that was much thicker this time. The princess groaned as it burned. “My apologies princess.” He spoke as he took the twine from Alice. “I’ll do this as quickly as I can.” He spoke as he began sewing up the laceration. It took some time and Calista took it rather well, she looked away and grit her teeth with a permanent wince upon her face. “There.” He spoke as he spread a thick paste over the wound and wrapped her arm tightly. “That should heal well.” He spoke as he stood and stepped over to a cabinet. He began mixing several things together before he came to the princess. “Drink this, princess. It will help ease the pain and allow you to sleep.” He searched her eyes.
Calista looked to the bright red liquid within the small glass. She took it into her hand shakily as she thought of Morgan’s eyes once again, her own blood smeared up her arm by the woman. She tilted her head back and took the elixir, her face scrunched and she shook her head slightly. “Oh Julius that is awful.” She held the empty glass toward him with a disgusted face.
Julius chuckled lightly. “I didn’t say that it would taste good, now did I?” He stepped away. “Ahh Prince Oneus.” He spoke as he noticed Jesper beginning to stir.
Calista sat at the edge of the chair, she blinked a few times. The elixir was already starting to take hold of her. “Alice.” She spoke and lifted her eyes to the woman.
“Yes, princess?” She asked as she turned her attention back to Calista.
Julius glanced to Alice. “Princess, if you wouldn’t mind my borrowing Alice a moment.” He spoke as he stepped over. “Would you go and fetch Princess Oneus? She requested that she be notified when her brother woke.”
Alice glanced to the princess whom gave a nod, her eyes were beginning to become heavy. “Right away.” She spoke as she stepped from the room.
Calista leaned back in the chair as her muscles began to relax, the pain of her bruises and of the cut were far from her mind. She drew in a deep breath as she fought to keep her eyes open.
Alice’s heels clicked down the hallway quickly to the guest quarters. She approached the room that was assigned to Morgan and gave a quick knock. “Princess Oneus?” She spoke softly. “The physician has requested your presence, your brother has awakened.” She took a step back from the door to wait.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 27, 2020 10:06:06 GMT -5
Morgan teleported then – arriving in her bedroom. She glanced to herself in the mirror – a dribble of blood had made it to her chin, and her lips were stained red. She took a finger and swooped the bit of blood and licked it off… she then dipped a cloth in the water and wiped her lips off… she stood for a long moment, thinking of the Princess.
A knock then came upon the door. She turned her gaze – a breath drawing in ward. She feared the Princess might have said something. Though… it was Alice’s voice that came through. Her brows pulled together and she stepped over to the door and opened it. “Alice… thank you” she bowed her head briefly. She followed behind Alice until they made it to the Physician’s quarter.
“Julius” she bowed her head briefly to him. The old man smiled and waved his hand toward Jesper. He was propped upward with several pillows – a his eye was completely swollen, bruising was across his entirety. “Oh dear brother” she stepped over to him…
She turned her head briefly and noticed the Princess. “Princess?” she questioned. “Is.. everything alright, what happened?” she questioned to Julius.
“It appears the Princess has gotten worked up – her stress and nerves – she dropped her tea cup, fell just right it seems” he smiled weakly. “These things happen”
“I see” she frowned slightly. It was then that Jesper groaned.. Morgan turned her head to her brother and she placed a hand on his shoulder.
“Hey there, hero” she smirked. “You let that wolf kick your ass...” she smirked. His one eye opened and he huffed at her. Julius chuckled from behind them as well… “Can you speak?” she questioned.
“Yeah” Jesper said weakly and then sighed. “How ugly do I look?”
“No uglier than normal” she laughed then.
“So funny” he groaned. Julius came over swiftly with a small vial.
“For your pain, sire” he handed the bottle over. Jesper took it and then swigged it down swiftly. “You have two broken ribs, one good gash across your chest, and a lot of bruising. Best you take it slowly...” Julius placed a hand on his head, feeling for temperature.
“How long will it take for him to heal?” Morgan questioned, her eyes peering to her mangled brother with a sad gaze.
“He can walk around within the next week or so, but it will take quite sometime until he is able to fully function.” he leaned back “Up to 2 months, I would say, until he is fully recovered...”
“Well… your heroic acts did yourself good, Jesper. The King...” she lowered her head then, hushing her voice. “The King has given you Calista’s hand...”
Jesper reached forward with a painful groan and gripped Morgan’s shoulder. “You are not toying with me, are you?” he questioned.
“No..” Morgan touched his hand and then stood upward once more. “Get some rest...” she kissed the top of his hand. “I’ll check on you tomorrow” she smiled then and turned to Julius. “Thank you… for taking care of him” she reached into her pocket and pulled out a small bag of coins. “I know you do it for your King, but please accept this as a token from my Kingdom for your duties and care” she stepped over to the old man and placed the coin bag in his hand.
Julius went to argue but he peered into Morgan’s blue eyes.. and then he nodded his head out of respect. “Thank you Princess” he bowed his head and slipped the coin bag away. Morgan knew that the physician served the King, out of pure loyalty. She could tell he wasn’t paid as handsomely as she might have payed him, the coins would set him forward for quite some time…
Morgan stepped over to Calista – who was now asleep. She sucked in a breath and glanced to Alice – who was watching her…
“Don’t fret so much, Princess – go on. I will take good care of these two...” he lifted a small vial then. “Do you need a sleep aid?” he questioned.
“I would, actually...” she turned and accepted his potion. “Thank you, Julius” she bowed her head and then walked out of the room.
She had made it back to her room and undressed to something more comfortable. She uncorked the vial and swirled it in her hand, she then downed it swiftly. She leaned her head back – and her brows pulled together. He had mixed blood into this potion – she could taste it so clearly. She set the vial down – it was half full… he knew.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 27, 2020 11:10:48 GMT -5
Alice sat next to the princess as she watched Morgan interact with Jesper. She’d looked to Calista with worried eyes every now and again and once she’d fallen asleep Alice stood and found a nice blanket. She tucked it in around the princess carefully. It was about that time that Morgan had approached, Alice backed up and watched the moment that exchanged between the two. Once Morgan left Alice looked to Julius whom gave a slight nod to her.
“Get some rest child.” He spoke with a soft smile. “I can handle your duties of serving the princess for an evening I believe.” He gave a slight chuckle.
Alice looked to the physician a moment and then smiled, “Of course. Thank you. Good night Julius.” She exited the room for the evening.
Julius turned and drew in a breath as he looked to the princess. “Your entire world has changed so much in just a few days, Calista.” He spoke and brushed her hair from her face, her brows were pulled together as if she was having a nightmare. “Not to worry.” He stepped to his alchemy desk and began crushing herbs. “I have just the thing to give you a good night of rest, to chase away the demons within your dreams.” He mixed several things together and the end product was a bluish liquid, created from a Nightling flower. It was a very rare flower in Runik, one that he had scouts search for in the spring and he would dry whatever they could find.
Julius stepped to Calista with the small vial, “Princess.” He gave a gentle squeeze to her shoulder. Calista drew in a quick breath, her eyes fluttered. “I need you to drink this. It will make you feel better.” He rest the vial upon her lower lip and tilted it slowly to allow the liquid to drip out. Julius watched as the pained expression faded from the princess’ face and her muscles relaxed. Her breathing slowed and her head lulled to the side. “There we are.” He stepped across the room.
**
The next morning before the sun had peaked over the mountains Calista woke. She drew in a breath and glanced around the physician’s office. She couldn’t remember how she had gotten here. She shifted in the bed and sat up slowly. The room around her spun slightly for a few seconds before it settled. She held her hand to her head, and as she did she felt the burning pain in her arm. She looked to the wrap that was carefully placed around her arm by Julius. Her brows pulled together slightly.
“Princess.” Julius spoke as he walked into the room with a cup of coffee in his hand. The steam rose from the cup toward his face. “Good morning. How are you feeling?”
Calista looked to Julius a moment, her eyes then fell upon Jesper whom lay in the bed propped by pillows across the room. Her brows rose slightly. “Julius...” Her voice wavered slightly. “What happened?” She questioned.
The physician drew in a breath as he stepped to his desk. He set down the cup of coffee and lifted a few items. “What is the last thing you remember? You’ve had a pretty rough go of it, Princess.” He searched her eyes carefully as he pulled up a stool and placed his fingers upon her wrist to feel her pulse.
“The tournament...” She drew her brows together. Everything was so fuzzy. Like a dream. “I remember watching the knights compete and then...” Her words trailed off a moment and she stared forward, her expression filled with frustration. “Jesper...he was fighting...and...” Her pulse increased slightly as she drew in a breath. “Julius...everything is so fuzzy.”
Julius sat back and looked to her with a soft almost sad smile. “You’ve gone through a lot in the past day, princess. It is not uncommon for the mind to protect you from such horrors. Fear induced amnesia.” He reached forward. “Let me have a look here.” He unraveled the wrap to reveal the stitched cut. He carefully dressed it in more antibiotic cream before he wrapped it once more.
“Julius.” Calista finally spoke, “Can you tell me what I’ve forgotten?” She asked with furrowed brows.
The physician finished wrapping her arm as he drew in a long breath, “Sir Evan was a lycan...he nearly killed Jesper, you were kidnapped by Sir Evan’s pack of Lycans...but you are alive and well, princess.” He gave a soft smile.
“Calista?” Murielle stepped into the room. “I went searching for you in your quarters. The guard told me that you were here.” Her mother stepped forward and cupped her cheek gently. “Are you alright darling?” She searched her eyes. “Julius...what is ailing her?”
Julius stood and gave a bow to the queen. “My queen.” He spoke as he cleared his items from the way. “I believe that the princess may have a bit of amnesia. It is not unheard of. She has suffered a great deal. I feel she should rest. That will do her the most good.”
Murielle pressed her lips together slightly and then gave a nod. “I’ll take her to her room. Come on dear.” She wrapped her arm around Calista’s waist and gave a gentle smile.
Calista glanced to Julius a moment before she was walked from the room. She was quiet as she was taken through the castle. The droplets of her blood upon the marble floors had been taken care of by Alice. As they made it to her quarters she looked about the room a moment before she stepped over to her bed and sat down.
Murielle stepped to her daughter with worried eyes. “You’re safe dear. No one is going to hurt you.” She cupped her cheek. “Let me make you a sleeping tea, hm?” Her mother walked over to the cabinet and began combining the herbs to create the concoction. She warmed the water with her magic and came to her daughter’s side. She sat next to her on the bed as she handed the mug to her. Calista sipped from the mug. Her eyes looked to it a long moment, she ran her fingertip along the brim of the glass. “Your father...plans to announce your hand to Jesper.” Murielle spoke after a long moment of silence. “I know that this is not how we had planned...but...I came to tell you of this decision before you found out during breakfast.” Her mother gazed to her a long moment and gave a soft smile. “I believe the prince of Oneus is a strong choice, he has done much to protect you and his sister has also shown such loyalty.”
Calista sipped from the tea and gave a slow nod. “Julius said I was kidnapped...was it Jesper that saved me?” She asked softly.
Murielle drew her brows together and shook her head. “No dear, it was your brother and Morgan. You’ve them to thank for that.” She took the empty mug from her daughter. “Now get some rest hm? No need to worry, darling.” She set the mug on the night stand and helped tuck Calista into her bed. “Your father and I will handle everything. I want you to rest as Julius has ordered.” The queen spoke before she gave a gentle kiss to her daughter’s forehead before she left the room.
Murielle walked through the hallways of the castle, the sun was beginning to peak over the mountains now. A gentle golden glow was cast within the halls of the castle. She made her way to the dining hall, the remaining men had been summoned by the king. She looked to the three young princes that remained. Warner nodded to his wife as she came to his side at the table. “We await Azer and the Princess of Oneus whom will represent her brother since he is unable to attend in his condition.” The king spoke.
**
Azer stepped to Morgan’s door and knocked upon it. “Morgan?” He asked. “You are being summoned to the dining hall in place of Jesper.” He took a step back and drew in a breath.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 27, 2020 12:42:38 GMT -5
Morgan found herself falling asleep fastly with the potion, which was a rarity. Often she would go several days without sleep, and the sleep was frequently seldom, or short. This was a deep sleep – to which she had no dreams. A gift, in truth, as her dreams were often memories scattered across her brain – of the bad and even worse. She rose in the morning to a knock on her door – she shot upwards, breathing swiftly.
“Oh shit” she muttered and looked to the window – it was sunrise. She scrambled upward, holding the sheets around her as she came to the door. “Azer?” she questioned and opened the door.
The Prince looked to her with wide eyes and cleared his throat. “You are not up yet?” he questioned and lifted a brow. “Are you unwell?” he questioned curiously.
“Julius offered me a sleep aid, and it worked very well” she spoke through a hushed voice. “Come” she ushered him in and closed the door. “Help me get ready” she spoke and rushed over to the closet. She pulled out a slim red dress with golden corset laces.
She dropped her sheet and revealed herself to be in just her bra and under wear. “Don’t stare for too long” she spoke and then moved over to a drawer. She pulled a slip out and pulled it on, drawing the strings tightly about her waist. She then pulled the dress on and swiftly pulled it down. “Lace me” she spoke and moved to stand in front of him. Meanwhile she combed through her long black hair and quickly threw it up into a delicate bun, with a few twists and bits – she went from bed head to a royal updo. “Tighter” she spoke as she drew in a breath. With the last synch – she reached forward and pressed a few pins into her hair.
“Thank you” she spoke and quickly powdered her face. She drew in her cheeks and applied a bit of blush, and then a touch of eyeliner. “Not as prepared as I want to be but...” she brushed a little bit of powder onto her collarbones. “This will do” she stepped over to the closet and slipped into a pair of low heels. “How do I look?” she questioned as she drew up two white gloves, she slipped them on and she head for the door.
She followed Azer into the dining hall and bowed her head to the King as she entered. “My King, Queen, and sires” she bowed her head once more and took a seat across from Azer. “Thank you for allowing me to dine amongst you, in place of my brother..” she fixed her dress slightly and let out a breath that she had held.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 27, 2020 13:22:21 GMT -5
Azer’s eyes widened slightly as she requested him into her room. Though he stepped inside and closed the door quietly behind him. “Julius is a miracle worker with some of the potions that he can create. Runik is home to some of the most unique flowers...” He was caught staring at the princess. His cheeks blushed and he glanced away. “Apologies.” He spoke as he turned slightly. “Um...” He turned to her when she’d told him to lace her corset. He fumbled a bit but he managed to tighten the laces. “Tighter?” He questioned with a bit of a shocked expression. “If you really want...” He tightened the corset more and then tied it. “I feel like that thing is strangling you...” He spoke as he watched her apply her blush. He hadn’t truly realized just how tight a corset could be, he’d never had to tie a woman’s corset before. The servants took care of that, and he was the prince after all.
Azer smirked slightly as she asked him how she looked, “Like royalty.” He winked to her before he turned. “I imagine my father has planned to reveal his offer this morning...” He nodded to her slightly. He took in a breath as he opened the door and walked her to the dining hall.
“Ah Azer welcome.” Warner spoke as the two were seated. “Princess Oneus, thank you for coming in place of your brother.” He nodded and a woman filled everyone’s glasses with a deep red wine. “Yesterday was a surprise for us all. It seems Sir Evan came with a plan to get close to Calista. Perhaps even harm her worse than his lycan friends managed to do.” He looked about the table.
“Is the princess injured?” Prince Leon questioned, his expression showed worry. “She was sent back to the castle as soon as the Lycan was slain...how could she be injured?”
“The lycans killed a few of our knights on the guard and took their uniforms.” Murielle spoke up. “Calista is well now, with thanks to Prince Jesper and Princess Morgan.” She offered a bit of information, but she did not speak of everything.
“Where is Princess Calista?” One of the other men questioned. Sir Isaac of Runik. One of the loyal guards. The king had kept the princess’ kidnapping hidden from the kingdom. He did not want to raise such alarm.
“Let the king speak.” Prince Tyler spoke and gave a nod.
The king nodded. He took a drink of his wine. “Prince Jesper saved my daughter from an attack of Lycans upon the mountain. He placed his life upon the line in his fight against the lycan in the tournament. Princess Morgan...saved many lives, including the life of my daughter. She managed to track down the Lycans whom kidnapped Calista and they were vanquished with the assistance of Azer.” He gave a smile to his son. “Such loyalty. Such honor and bravery give me the answer that I was searching for in this festival.” The king paused slightly, “I thank you Prince Leon of Dreg, Prince Tyler of Luna, and Sir Isaac of Runik. You are all noble men. But I have decided that my daughter’s hand belongs to Prince Jesper of Oneus. He has shown loyalty to Runik in his actions. Regretfully he is in no condition to join us at the table for this discussion.” Warner turned his eyes to the princess and gave a light smile. “So I have asked for Princess Morgan to join us in his place.”
“Oneus is riddled with Lycans. How do we know that they did not bring them here?” Prince Tyler spoke up.
“Or perhaps they paid the Lycans to perform such acts so that they can take the princess’ hand?” Prince Leon swirled the wine within his glass.
Warner looked to the two and his lips parted to speak. “My king would not make a decision without thought put into it. I do not believe that the Princess of Oneus nor the Prince brought the Lycans here. Have you not seen the condition that Prince Jesper is in? He nearly died. With luck he will make a full recovery without any deficits. It is rather daft of you to accuse my king of such a foolish decision.” Sir Issac spoke his expression serious.
Prince Tyler looked to Isaac with a hatful glare. “Oh and you would stand behind your king through any decision that he makes.” He scoffed.
“Enough.” The kings voice rang through the room. “This decision was made with much thought put into it. The queen and I have spoken with the princess and she agrees that it is the best decision to make. The kingdom of Runik appreciates you coming and we have considered all of our options. But Oneus will gain the hand of my daughter. If, the kingdom of Oneus accepts.” He turned his eyes to Morgan then.
“Your kingdom will be flooded with lycans too, King Runik.” Prince Tyler warned.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 27, 2020 13:38:17 GMT -5
Morgan lifted a glass of coffee and looked to the Princes, who shifted in their seats. She listened to the arguing and she let out a soft sigh. The King’s voice echoed in the room, his voice lingering with a bit of anger. “My King” she cleared her throat. “If I may?”
“As you wish” the King waved his hand forward.
“To be attacked as such with not a word in would put my father to shame...” she drew in a breath. “The expressions you have displayed are exact reasons as to why you may have lost. Regardless of the attacks or not – your inner desire is evident in your response here. Had you had any other response – I may have felt pity, but your hatred and anger is a display of childish ambition – not worthy of ruling a Kingdom...” she set her mug down.
“And – I did not see any of you jump into the unfair ring of battle to defend my brother, and even more so – the King and Queen. You cowered in your corner, and a Princess had to step up to attend to the deed...” she lifted a brow. “Lycans, other threats – come with the position, an expectation that you will always have an enemy on the horizon is unavoidable… who you choose to ally with is what matters most...” she cleared her throat then and looked to the King. “I apologize, but I cannot sit idle and allow such disrespectful words to lace your ears, my King. Oneus accepts humbly...” she bowed her head then and looked upward, her eyes catching Azer’s…
“A year ago, a month ago, yesterday and even today – do not define tomorrow. A good kingdom is one that is constantly evolving. Introduction of Runik allows us opportunity to change for the better. I know the unity will define a new era...” she bowed her head. “I will be happier when my brother can accept it himself, for now he rests”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 27, 2020 14:08:52 GMT -5
The room fell silent as Morgan took the spotlight. Azer found himself looking to the princess with a bit of a smile about his lips. Her strength was unwavering. He took a drink from his glass as he listened. Each point. Each word was placed before the princes with a noble tone about them. By the end of her speech even the king and queen had a bit of a smile upon their lips. The decision that they had made was indeed the right decision. The kingdom of Oneus would carve a new era as an ally with the kingdom of Runik. “I couldn’t have stated it better myself.” The king spoke as he looked to the two princes.
Prince Tyler scoffed slightly, “Childish?” He narrowed his brows. “How uncanny of you to accuse of such things, princess.” His voice was harsh. He stood from his seat. “I think I’ve seen enough. Clearly it is not important for Runik to ally with Luna. Good day, King Runik, Queen.” He glared to Morgan a moment before he turned and stepped from the room.
Azer looked to the door as it closed, he brought his eyes back to Morgan with a smile upon his lips. Prince Leon cleared his throat. “I do not feel as poorly as Leon, my king.” He spoke as he watched King Warner. “My kingdom will offer aid to you if you are in need. It pains me that I was not able to gain your daughter’s hand, but I understand your decision.” Leon looked to Morgan and gave a nod. “Please congratulate your brother for me. I will return with the news to my father.” Leon stood and stepped from the room as well.
Sir Isaac was the only one that remained. He looked to his king with a smile upon his lips. “I count myself lucky to have spent as much time as I have with my king and queen, as well as your beautiful daughter, Princess Calista. She is in good hands, my king. You have made a noble, honorable decision. I will follow you until my last breath, my king.” He stood and bowed deeply before he stepped from the room.
“We will have to keep our eyes on Luna for awhile. Though I can’t imagine the king of Luna to be as selfish as his son. It’s quite astonishing, really.” The queen spoke she squeezed her husband’s hand.
“Yes, of course.” Warner spoke and gave a nod. “Thank you, Morgan for your words. I could not have stated it better than you did. You will make a fine queen one day, hm?” He gave a smile then before he nodded to the servant to bring them food. The table was filled with many different breakfast foods, eggs, toast, bacon, sausage...it was a feast. A celebration.
Azer smirked as he looked to Morgan his eyes seemed to play over her for a long moment. He was almost entranced by her it seemed. “Jesper is a very deserving man.” He spoke, “He will keep my sister safe, I am certain of that.” He looked to his mother and father, “Shall I speak the blessing?” He gave a smile. He reached his hand forward to grasp Morgan’s and he took the queen’s hand into his own. The king held his hand out to Morgan. “May the gods bless this food to give our kingdom strength. May the Prince of Oneus recover swiftly and may my sister push through her ailments. We will rise as a strengthened kingdom as we take Oneus in as our ally.” Azer rubbed the back of Morgan’s hand with his thumb as he held it, his eyes stared to their hands, a soft smile upon his lips as he finished his blessing. He lifted his eyes to meet her icy gaze for a moment before he released her hand. The prince sat back in his seat and lifted his fork to begin eating.
**
“Julius.” Alice spoke as she walked into the physician’s office. “Does the princess need anything more for pain today?” She asked, “I have not awakened her, the queen instructed against that.”
Julius looked up from his desk, he was writing away in a book. “Ah yes, yes, when she wakes she may be in a bit of pain.” He stood and grasped a vial of liquid. “Only a few drops. This should last awhile.” He gave a smile.
“Thank you, Julius.” Alice bowed her head as she stepped from the room and made her way down the hallway toward the princess’ quarters.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 27, 2020 14:36:12 GMT -5
Morgan watched as each left, her eyes trained on the Knight, she bowed his head to his respectful response. She turned her gaze to Azer then blushed slightly when he offered to make the blessing. She reached forward and grasped his hand – and then turned to the King. Her small fragile hands then grasped onto the Kings. He had rough strong hands, that of a fighter. Morgan bowed her head and listened to the blessing and smirked. “Amen” she spoke after and leaned back. “More than just an alliance, I suppose now we are future family?” she smiled then. “We take family very seriously, even over our Kingdom...the values for our Kingdom are defined with each other first, and the Kingdom follows suit” she bowed her head then.
As they began to eat she lifted her fork. “Julius, your lovely Physician, says it may be up to a month before Jesper is well. I will send word to my father, but we may have to ask to remain here until he is well enough to travel” she looked to the King.
She paused for a moment glanced to Azer and then away briefly. “If we are family – then you should know… I am not a true Princess, I am the Ward of the King. Though, when I was young he officially adopted me, and I share his name now...” she bowed her head. “This is not exactly public knowledge, per say, but it is the truth” she glanced to the King and Queen. “I hope you still see me as the same, as my father certainly does. His daughter, and the Princess of Oneus” she paused then “The concept of never being a true Queen – does not bother me much though. Serving my King, and my family – is all that matters to me. My brother can do all the ruling for my family” she chuckled and smiled then.
**
Jesper stirred as Julius spoke to Alice – he lifted his head and groaned. Julius turned his gaze and stepped over – taking a few vitals. “How are you doing, my Prince?” Julius spoke as he mixed up a new paste for the gash on Jesper’s chest.
“Been better...” Jesper spoke and sat upward weakly.
“Breakfast should be up soon” Julius spoke and began to undo the wrappings on Jesper’s chest.
“I suppose my sister is taking my place?” Jesper questioned, eyes glancing to Jesper as the sewed up slice on his chest was exposed.
“Aye, she is” he nodded. “What a special woman she is, hm?” he smiled then.
“Yes…” Jesper studied Julius for a moment and then leaned back as he felt a stinging – the cleaning of his wound. He groaned slightly and sighed. “Not sure what I’d do without her”
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 27, 2020 15:41:09 GMT -5
The king watched Morgan carefully as she spoke. “Ah yes, yes, I spoke with Julius yesterday in regards to your brothers injuries.” He gave a smile. “You both may remain as long as you need. When he is healed we will send part of our guard home with you to begin the process of expelling the Lycans from your land...” He looked to the queen then and nodded she nodded back in return.
The next news that came from Morgan caused the queen to smile. “We will of course always view you as family, Morgan.” She spoke and then took a sip of her coffee. “Since you are speaking of family secrets...” She looked to the king whom hesitated for a moment before he gave a nod. Murielle looked to Morgan with her two toned eyes, “Oneus has gained much more than just a simple alliance. Calista is a very powerful mage, we have kept her power secret from the other kingdoms, as we did not want a kingdom to bid for her hand simply for power. You understand?” The queen gave a smile then. “A mage like Calista is very special, and I can answer questions that you may have, so that you may inform your father. Even my power does not equate to hers. That being said, my magic helped to purge the lycans from Runik before. So as we did before, we will do once again. Just this time in Oneus.” She nodded and then took a bite of her food.
Azer ate quietly, the big reveal wasn’t that big of a reveal since Morgan had already witnessed Calista’s powers. Though he hoped that she would be able to contain that information, he imagined she could. He smirked slightly as he ate his food, his eyes looked to Morgan every now and again. “Azer.” The king spoke his eyes looking to his son. “I will need you to hand pick the guard that will be assigned to Oneus.” He nodded. “Murielle will assign a few mages to come along with you as well.” He gave a smile to Morgan. “Are your quarters reasonable? We can move you into the side of the castle that we reside in if you would like. As you are right, you are our future family, you are no longer simply a guest among our people. When Calista is well, and Jesper is well enough, we shall announce to the kingdom that we have made a decision. But, until then, I will allow them to rest.”
“My king!” The doors pushed open quickly. Two knights rushed in with Prince Tyler held in their grasp, the man looked furious.
The king stood from the table. “If you would excuse me.” He spoke as he stepped over to them. “What is the meaning of this?” He questioned.
“He tried to poison the princess.” A knight spoke. “He knocked out two of the guards, injured the servant girl.”
Azer looked to his father, he could clearly hear what the guards spoke. He glanced to his mother whom stood quickly. “I must check on Calista.” The queen spoke as she rushed from the room.
“He was aiming to pour this into her mouth.” A guard held the vial forward.
The king drew in a breath, “Place him in the dungeon. I will have to speak with his father. An attempt to kill a member of the royal family in Runik is a death sentence.” His voice was gruff. “However, I do not wish to spark a war with your father, boy. Take him away.” He turned and stepped to the table. “Apologies, but we must end breakfast swiftly. If there is anything that you need, Morgan, please, don’t hesitate to ask.” The king turned and left the room.
Azer sighed slightly, “I can’t believe that he tried such a thing...” He muttered and shook his head. “Calista really has a black cloud hanging over her head lately.” He looked to Morgan as he stood. “I need to go speak with the guard so that they are aware of what has happened. “I’ll see you later? Princess.” He smirked to her before he stepped away.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 28, 2020 17:01:42 GMT -5
Morgan was pleased when the King and Queen accepted the truth. It was moments after that they revealed the truth about Calista. She let a surprised reaction reveal and she nodded “I could understand why you would keep that revealed… it is evident there are already some threats here, if the world knew this during her courtship – many other Kingdoms would have come for all the wrong reasons. As difficult as if may have been for her… it was a wise choice” she bowed her head slightly and glanced to Azer briefly.
“I will continue to keep this secret until everything is set in stone.” she smiled then and ate a grape from her plate. Morgan lifted a brow when the King mentioned her quarters, she nodded then and smiled. “I would love to stay in the Royal quarters, I would very much enjoy that” she turned her head as the doors opened suddenly.
Morgan glanced to Azer briefly and then to Prince Tyler. She stood then and looked to Azer - “It wouldn’t be me if I sat idly...” she pulled up her dress slightly and followed Azer out of the room. Though she broke off and caught up with the King.
“My King – do you need any assistance?” she called out. The King paused and turned towards her.
“Well… if you insist” he smiled then “Take this vial to Julius, get him to tell us what it is of. Is it truly poison? I will need this information before I accuse anyone of anything...” he handed her the vial. “Thank you, my lady” he then walked away in a hurried pace.
Morgan took the vial and slipped it into her pouch. She ushered through the castle until she came upont he Physicians chambers. She stepped inside and cleared her throat – Julius stood over Alice, wrapping her arm from a wound. “Julius” she announced herself.
“Ah, Lady Morgan… I am sure you are here about all the commotion… was it Prince Tyler I heard?” she questioned as he tied up the dressing. “Hand me that bowl, would you?” he pointed to a wooden bowl with paste in the middle. She lifted it and handed it to him, he then lathered it on another cut. “They scuffed poor Alice up pretty good..” he sighed and pulled out another linen cloth.
“I’ve brought the said poison, the King has asked you to analyze it of its contents” she lifted the bottle and then set it down on his desk. “How bad is she hurt?” she questioned.
“A few bumps and scrapes, she will bounce back fast… a brave one she is. The Knights were in a much less favorable state” he glanced over to two men which had several bandages over their chest and arms – attacks from a sword. “Alice was knocked back into a vase, but those two faced the attack of a swordsman, they will make it too… but brutal” he shook his head. “I will analyze the poison.. thank you bringing it” he bowed his head.
“Will you take this to the lady Calista?” he pulled out a vial of liquid. “You should check on her for me” he smiled and handed it over.
“I will, thank you” she accepted the vial and smiled.
“Oh, Lady Morgan, Congratulations – I heard Oneus is to be wed...” he smiled then “I am honored” he then returned back to Alice.
Morgan ushered away swiftly, her gaze glancing back to her brother who was sound asleep. She came to Calista’s room and knocked on the cracked door. “My Queen...” she opened the door all the way and stepped inside. “I’ve brought something from Julius… how is she?” she questioned.
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Post by Blindside Tex on Sept 28, 2020 17:48:05 GMT -5
The queen entered the princess’ room passed two more guards that had posted outside of her quarters. She glanced to the broken vase upon the floor, the table it had been upon had been knocked to the ground. “My queen.” A servant looked up, the young woman bowed deeply. “I’m just finishing.” She spoke in a tender voice.
“No need.” Murielle spoke and gave a gentle smile. “Please let us be alone.” She looked to Calista whom was still fast asleep. Her daughter had rolled onto her side and had scrunched her brows together. The queen watched as the servant left the room. She held her hand out toward the broken vase and her eyes took a light glow as the vase pieced back together and the table stood back up. She returned everything back to normal before she took a seat upon the bed next to her daughter. The queen brushed her fingertips through Calista’s hair gingerly. “You’ve had a rough go at it, darling.” She brushed a tear from her daughter’s cheek and sighed softly. She looked over the bruising upon Calista’s neck and arms, the small scrapes from her kidnapping. Her fingertips then ran over Calista’s wrist, the deep bruising upon it, the purplish blue was a stark contrast next to the white cloth of the bandaging upon her arm.
It was then that there was a knock from the door, Murielle lifted her eyes from where she sat. “Ah Princess Morgan.” She gave a sweet smile. She looked to the vial that Morgan held in her hand, “She might be in a bit of pain...” She brushed her fingertips across Calista’s brow line, her own eyes glowed slightly as she did this. Calista’s pained expression softened and her breathing slowed. The queen drew in a breath. “I have spent her entire life protecting her...I kept her safe from the wars...the Lycans...the hate within this world...” The queen sighed softly, “Then the moment that we allow strangers into this kingdom...” She shook her head. “Apologies, Morgan...” She spoke as she stood and reached for the vial. “Perhaps this will help, Julius always seems to know what to do.” She gave a warm smile. Murielle stepped to Calista and carefully shifted her to her back, she placed a hand beneath her head and allowed the vial to drip into her mouth slowly. The princess coughed slightly, but only a few times until the vial was empty.
A knock came from the door. “My queen, apologies. You’ve been requested by the king.” A knight stood in the open doorway.
Murielle set the empty vial upon the bedside table and straightened slightly. “Morgan.” She spoke as she looked to her, “Might I ask you to look after Calista?” She asked softly. “I trust that you, just as your brother, would protect her.” She glanced to Calista once again before she stepped from the room with the knight that had been sent to summon her. It seemed that the security around the castle had been stepped up, the sound of guard footsteps making their way passed the room could be heard every few minutes or so.
Calista’s troubled expression returned shortly after the vial had been given to her. She scrunched the blanket into her fist as she slept, her pulse increased and her breathing quickened. Then after a few minutes she could calm once again. Though soon enough the princess sat up quickly with a gasp of air. Nightmares had always been something that plagued her. It was the very reason her mother had created the sleeping potion for her. She found herself staring to Morgan. “Where...is Alice…?” She questioned. Her brows tucked together slightly, she’d heard the scuffle...or had she dreamed it? She remembered the feeling of a droplet against her cheek, and Alice screaming ‘no’. “She’s hurt.” Calista stood quickly. Her head began to spin and she reached forward and grasped onto Morgan as she drew in a quick breath. “What...is happening to me?” She groaned slightly as she sat back down on the edge of the bed. The princess closed her eyes for a long moment.
The princess calmed and stood once again. She had gathered herself this time as she slipped on her slippers and stepped across the room to pull on her robe, she shivered slightly as she stared to herself in the mirror. The bruising. She reached up and touched her neck. She looked to the bruising upon her arms and her wrist. “Morgan...” She spoke then her eyes soft as she turned to look to the Princess of Oneus. “Julius...he said that I have some sort of stress related amnesia...” She stepped over to Morgan as she searched the woman’s eyes. “I cannot remember what happened at the tournament...he said I was kidnapped...I...” She pressed her lips together and sighed softly. “I’ve tried to remember...but I can’t...he...said you and Azer saved me...” Calista hugged her arms to her body, “Thank you...” She spoke after a long pause.
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