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Post by Jenny on Aug 16, 2022 16:22:00 GMT -5
A bit overwhelmed by all the buzz and activity, Serena lingered just outside the palace, wanting to be close to Cartell for her own reassurance and comfort. There were so many newcomers! How would she greet them all as their future queen? Was she eloquent enough? Would she fit the role that is fated to be hers? She hoped that she would catch on quickly enough. Perhaps her handmaidens could be of some guidance to her, as perhaps they had served many nobility in the past. She already was very thankful for those that had helped her in her journey; so kind and helpful, and even loyal enough. She breathed in and out and did her best to smile, nervous as she was. She tried not to do something as silly as to tremble, to give in to her nerves.
She would give a kind word and a curtsey in turn to each of those that greeted her and pledged their loyalty to their future queen. She would avert her eyes to Cartell when she could, finding reassurance that she would be all right, if she would only trust in herself and her new friends.
She let out an unladylike squeal of delight as Eyan rode up into the courtyard and just about threw himself at his nephew. Her mouth went agape when she saw just what Eyan had arranged for the palace, and the people. And so many more had streamed in through the palace gates! More to pledge their loyalty, with eyes of awe and reverence.
But oh! Eyan was coming to say his hellos! She brushed her dress down a little self-consciously and beamed at him as he approached. Butterflies fluttered in her stomach again when the thought crossed her mind... how would he feel about herself having chosen Cartell as her consort? Would he approve or disapprove? She decided to tell him sometime alone, and hoped he did not laugh.
She raised her arms to greet him, wishing to embrace him, eager to show her joy at seeing him again. "Eyan! How good to see you!"
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Post by Joe on Aug 16, 2022 17:12:17 GMT -5
Eyan was surprised a bit at her embrace but happily returned it before pulling away and bowing before her, "My lady, you must forgive my absence these past months. Lord Gilroy in the end required my assistance to gather all your family's heirlooms, and I'm happy to report almost all of them have been recovered. Futhermore," He stepped and drew his sword, planting it on the ground in front of her. "I, Eyan Holland, do swear that I will well and truly serve our Sovereign Lady Queen Serena in the order of the queensguard, and I will do right to all manner of people after the laws and usages of this realm, without fear or favour, affection or illwill."
Eyan lowered his head as he awaited her reply. Cartell watched amicably from his side, knowing Serena didn't quite know how to handle these situations.
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Post by Jenny on Aug 16, 2022 17:21:04 GMT -5
"You have done so much for this kingdom and me, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart, Lord Eyan. And I welcome your loyalty and pledge with the deepest of joy. I will look to your guidance now and ever more, for I have much to learn. I trust you, and I know you will serve this kingdom well as both a protector to the realm and to the crown. Please, do rise, and take up your sword. Now and forever more."
She blushed lightly, hoping her words were well enough. She beckoned for him to stand, beaming at him. "Thank you for all you have done thus far for all of us. I appreciate your friendship and service more than you may know..."
She bit her lip a bit as he stood, fidgeting with her hands a bit. "Oh, and I must speak with you privately soon, for there is something important I must say to you, if you would allow me, my good friend."
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Post by Joe on Aug 16, 2022 18:36:45 GMT -5
Eyan rose and sheathed his sword, bowing again. "Speak? Of course, my lady. Is now a bad time?" He gestured through the palace doors.
Cartell gave her a knowing look and returned to seeing to the new arrivals. Two great golden banners had been draped flanking the palace entrance, depicting the emblem of House Belmont.
A courier approached him, "My lord Holland, I bring news from Velris."
"Good man, go on."
"On all fronts the Illios are held at bay, though the fighting is fierce. Lord Velris is confident they can stay the course, especially as more reinforcements arrive thanks to the queen's arrival. He warns your lordship to be wary of subterfuge."
Cartell nodded to the courier, "I thank you for your service, friend. Please feed yourself and take whatever you need from the stores for your return journey."
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Post by Jenny on Aug 16, 2022 18:46:16 GMT -5
"No, it is not a bad time. We can speak in the throne room, I think last night's affairs were cleared up this morning. Come, you know the way, but I shall lead in any case."
She smiled at him and picked up the hem of her gown and mounted the stairs, heading inside the castle, through the warm-lit halls and led the way into the throne room. The floor had been swept and cleared of debris and dust. Litter and stone from the broken duskwell had been cleared from where the it had been shattered by the abomination just yesterday. As far as she saw, and hoped, the two of them were alone. She paused and turned around near the marble of the throne.
She fidgeted her hands a bit, all was quiet, and her heart beat loud in her chest. She looked up at Eyan and smiled as best she could.
"I have news of great import, and I am not sure how well you will receive it. You see..."
She bit her lip, but did her best not to fidget any longer, straightened up her body and looked into Eyan's eyes, so great import it was for her that he should know.
"You see, it was not so long ago that, in the company of our friends, I asked Cartell to be my consort. I hope... my greatest hope... is for you to give us your blessing. Cartell is not so sure of accepting, but I believe he has accepted in his heart, that I love him and will not have another. He has his reservations, and tells me he is not of noble birth, but I care not the circumstances of his birth. I would have him, if you will allow it. You are his only remaining kin that may give a blessing that we may be together."
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Post by Joe on Aug 16, 2022 21:36:48 GMT -5
Eyan watched her curiously, wondering what could be causing the little lady so much stress.
He couldn't keep the smile from forming on his face as she framed her question. Eyan was standing not far from here when he watched Andal and Aurelia betrothed in front of the duskwell. The image of blood-soaked amber hair flashed through his mind and he grimaced. Whatever the cause, the fate of House Holland seemed inexorably tied to the fate of the Golden Kingdoms.
Eyan flashed a genuine smile again, "I give my blessing freely, child. As you know my brother Andal was once tied by marriage to your family, it seems fate enjoys this pattern." He chuckled to himself and bowed his head reverently, "In any case, I think you could not have made a finer choice."
"I believe your vassals wish to crown you as soon as possible, so that our work may officially begin. If they continue to arrive at this pace, as soon as tomorrow."
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Post by Jenny on Aug 16, 2022 21:50:25 GMT -5
She beamed at him and gave him another, very unladylike embrace. She shyly withdrew because her emotions were making her act foolishly, but she was young yet.
"Thank you, Lord Eyan. I believe I have made a fine choice as well in Cartell. He does not think so much of himself as of yet, but I hope that will change. Perhaps you and I can put some more confidence in him? Still, he has done a very admirable job ever since he took the lead in making the castle whole and hale once again."
She clasped her hands together and her eyes lit up, telling Eyan as well as her plans to duplicate the fabled Round Table.
"Please tell me you'll take a seat by my side. and I wish to extend an invitation to Lord Velris when I can. Oh, and to Ro, and not to forget Lord Klaus and Lord Ondreau. As far as Lord Blackwell, however..." she frowned a bit. "Of him I am not so sure. I have not seen head or hide of him since yesterday evening by Lord Andal's pyre, of which I am sorrowful that you had to miss. I am sure you can pay respects when I have erected a monument where his ashes are to be housed and honored."
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Post by Joe on Aug 16, 2022 23:20:57 GMT -5
"I trained the lad in the art of war, I'll see if I can bolster his spirits as well."
Eyan smirked as he watched her plan her kingdom with childlike glee, "I'd be honored to be part of such a council, it's a fine idea. Blackwell is a bit of a cold fish but his family has always been loyal to our cause, though if your instinct tells it different, I'll make sure the men keep an eye out for him."
He stiffened a bit at the mention of Andal, "Aye, my lady, I would like that."
By evening the rest of the lords had arrived and a great feast was prepared in the grand hall. The table was arranged in a U shape, with Serena at the head in the monarch's chair flanked by Cartell and Eyan, Ro just beside them. All the lords representing the western kingdoms were at the table, Ondreau, Velris, Blackwell, Rothstein, Lord Varric Keller had also made his way, as well as a dozen other retainers and minor vassals. Beyond the head table were rows of other tables for the soldiers and servants to feast.
As the opening ceremony began, each of the vassals one by one approached Serena at the table and pledged their swords and once it was done, the servants brought out the food. It was of high quality, though clearly they were improvising since the kitchen had not much time to prepare. The court musicians began their song and the hall filled with laughter and talk.
Eyan smiled, his eyes growing watery. It was almost as lively as it had once been. With so much lost, it still felt a dream to see it happening.
Cartell watched Serena gleefully, enjoying his time close to her after the stresses of the preparation. He almost called her darling but somehow addressing a queen that way still felt wrong, "My lady, there's a matter the others have pressed me to put to you."
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Post by Jenny on Aug 17, 2022 9:51:57 GMT -5
Serena looked thoughtful. "Well, if you can trust Lord Blackwell, then I'll consider him in a better light from now on." She smiled at Eyan.
---
The castle looked amazing! All in such a short time. Serena's eyes looked about still in awe from corner to corner, eave to eave. This was the same dark and gloomy palace they had traveled so tentatively through not but days before? She came around and bent her head towards Cartel, trying to allow their heads to draw close together.
"My Lord, you have done so well here! The dining hall, everything is just so lovely." She reached over with her hand and placed it on Cartell's, her smile bright. She raised her head and leaned back, tall in her seat, her chin high and proud, but did not let her hand fall from Cartell's. The realm would know of her fondness for Cartell soon enough as it was.
She received each Lord and Vassal amiably, and gave each a good word of their deepest thanks. As the pledgers line was long, she began to get a bit overwhelmed, but she got through it with the same patience she had learned as a child so long ago in the convent. That oppressing and terrible place.
At last, the last of the Vassals and Lords had made their pledges and asked for their blessings, and oh, the music! The feast smelled lovely, it did, but the music was so lovely! She beamed at Cartell as he started to speak to her, her smile only fading slightly as she listened.
"Oh? What matter would this be? Is all yet well?"
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Post by Joe on Aug 17, 2022 10:45:13 GMT -5
Cartell smiled at her compliment, "You are kind to say so. Still much waits to be done."
He withdrew his hand and grew a bit nervous, "As you know the lords are most impatient to see to your coronation. By tomorrow even more pilgrims will have arrived and the city will be quite bustling I imagine. Many of the lords have expressed... concern, about..." Cartell shifted in his seat uncomfortably, "That is to say, your subjects feel greatly protective and much concerned with your ladyship's safety. A-as such, they wish to know how soon you intend to marry, and the... fruits of it."
He clenched his eyes and tapped on the table, impatient with himself, "I must beg your forgiveness."
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Post by Jenny on Aug 17, 2022 11:08:06 GMT -5
She nodded along with his words, trying to encourage him to speak on. "You are still unsure of it yourself? Do you still accept that I wish you to be my king-consort, or do you have too many misgivings?"
She lowered her eyes and her head. "There is no need for forgiveness, you are nervous about the role, and you gave your reasons. Would you still honor me with accepting my proposal?" She bit her lower lip, her eyes welling up with emotion, hoping not that his words would ultimately lead to heart break.
"I would like to have you as my own, but if, you have changed your mind.. if it is too much..."
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Post by Joe on Aug 17, 2022 13:11:33 GMT -5
Cartell cursed himself as his rambling words made her misunderstand, "No! No my heart, do not be upset. I think I've cast enough doubt on myself already, " he chuckled, "I wouldn't think to question you again on that. It's just..." He considered rephrasing the question but decided it was best left for later, "Think nothing of it, another time." He smiled and stood as the court musicians began a lively dancing tune, holding his hand out to her.
"Honor me with a dance, my lady?"
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Post by Jenny on Aug 17, 2022 14:21:18 GMT -5
She breathed out a long, shaky breath, having been terrified at what he said could have meant, though it had been terribly misunderstood. She managed to smile, taking a few more deep breaths. She rose from her seat as he invited to dance and took his hand.
"That would be wonderful. But you will have to lead. Lord Velris was a fine dancer and I had no trouble as he led so well. I can only hope that I will not step on your feet." She looked sheepish and took her place with him on the dance floor. "I learned a few reels and folk dances as a child, however. So there is at least SOME knowledge of rhythm." She laughed aloud, all the tension now gone. "But I don't know anything proper or fancy."
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Post by Joe on Aug 17, 2022 16:11:08 GMT -5
Cartell lead her to the dance floor laughing, "I believe Lord Velris is still my superior in dance, but I think I can save us from embarrassment."
He held her left hand aloft, placing his other on her waist, moving into closed position. He began leading her through the dance with the rest of the revelers, occasionally spinning or wrapping about.
Lord Ondreau watched from the table with great amusement. Klaus was pounding his mug on the table along with the beat, nearly spilling it on the flower knight's finery.
Word had spread by now of Serena's choice in Cartell, and many of the celebrants watched with delight as the two danced.
Eyan had stood from his place and wandered the feast hall, seeking Lord Blackwell. He found him near the entrance, leaning against one of the grand windows.
"Not enjoying the festivities, my lord?" Eyan probed. Blackwell shrugged noncommittedly. Eyan considered his words carefully, "How fares your land of Imarine?" Blackwell sighed and straightened himself a bit, "All is well as far as I know, friend. My mother Ovidia presides in my absence, preparing for war, I believe." Eyan nodded slowly, "Just remember lad, should you have anything troubling you, speak to me first. Best not to bother our lady." They stared at each for a moment before parting with a bow.
The song ended, accompanied by great applause from the whole room. Cartell took Serena's hand and lead her away from the crowd. They passed through an open doorway in the side of the banquet hall, entering a small adjoining garden overlooking the city below. The main structure of the palace extended off to their left, its great spires and windows reflecting the setting sun. He stepped to the iron railing, leaning against it as he considered the sprawl below. Here and there people milled about, repairing buildings and discarding rubbish, though some had joined the merriment, dancing on their rooftops.
Finally he turned to face her, "I'd like to do something for you."
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Post by Jenny on Aug 17, 2022 16:22:23 GMT -5
She laughed lightheartedly as Cartell lead her and spun her about, completely delighted by the dance. "You do dance well, my Lord!"
Joy lit up her eyes and smile, and it was clear that the queen had indeed chosen her suitor, and he of her, for they radiated a pure love, all to rare in nobility, as many were arranged marriages and some unfortunate souls barely saw nor spoke to each other out of spite or discontentment with their marriage.
High color rose to Serena's cheeks, both from her high spirits and the exertions of the dance. She did manage to not step on Cartell's feet, much to her delight. She looked around at the end of the dance as the entire hall broke out in applause and laughed a little, both pleased and embarrassed at the same time. She gladly allowed Cartell to again take up her hand and lead her away from the hall into the open air. She breathed in and out deeply. The garden, thanks to the duskwell's magic, had begun to renew and bloom, and the flowers' scent was light and pleasant on the breeze.
"Oh? What do you have in mind, beloved?"
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