Royal Blood (closed)

[swordandsandle]

- Prince (and Heir-Apperent) Canian of House Yeth-
Age- 25
Sex- Male
Height- 6' 1"
Weight- 141 lbs
Build- Strong, but a bit leaner in the belly and waist. Strong shoulders, though
Eyes- Purple-hinted blue
Hair- Dirty blond
---------------

A long time ago (actually, around the year 1013 CE), there was a kingdom on the southern boundries of what we might call the Neatherlands. This kingdom, Yith, was ruled by the many branchs of the House of Yeth, with their king, Thesbius Yeth, ruling the great capital keep in the center of the nation. However, the kingdom being the size it was, he could not manage it all directly, and so the other members of his house ran the smaller holdfasts around the land, ensuring that the people remained safe, justice was done, and taxs where paid.

I know all of this, because I was his eldest son. Canian of House Yeth, Lord of The Hill and Heir apperent to the nation. My hall was a rather small hall... though it by no means lacked royal comforts. I had servents, soilders, meat and mead... enough to keep a man safe and warm, no doupt. However, I also had responsablities... and while I understood that, sometimes the where a burdan. Day in and day out, I was burdened with the affairs of the province; judging cases of stolen livestock, running over the balances, taking in state visitors from the nearby principalities... in became almost a nightmare at times. Of course, I knew it was only preporations for my days as king, as my only legiment brother, Ezekial, was seven years of age.

Today, I had just awoken from my slumber, dressing myself without the aid of a page... I did not beleive in such frivolties. A woman might need assistance with her clothing, but that was an indulgence for their sex. Slowly, I wound down the stairs of the central tower, feeling the draft that signalled the start of autaum. The harvest would be upon us soon... and that would be quite a good thing. Still, it did mean more work, but for the festivities... and the tourniments.

I finnally entered the audence room, a few peasents and noblemen already gathered at the sides, the peasents in awe at the rather modest tapistires of the wall, the smoothly carved stone, and the seat of light leather that I set myself upon. My dress today conisted of a boiled lather tunic, a vest of gold-trimmed wool over it, long horsehide leggings, and light boots, dyed in the colors of my father's line; purple and white. Slowly, I scanned over the people, setting myself down in the chair. Another day.. but, perhaps, it would be worth it.

Then, before I could speak, the door on the far end of the hall squeked open, a balding guard sticking his head in through the door. "You're highness. Her lady the princess has a suiter who begs for an audience with you and her. Shall I send him in?"

Shifting a bit in my seat, I looked over the people... she was my responsablity after my father sent her out here with me, that's true, but it did look like the day was going to be rather busy. Still, I could never lose the chance to find somebody good enough for my sweet, sweet sister. "Send him in, and bring the princess down to see me at once."

 

[Hannah18]

Name: Lady Héloise
Age: Eighteen
Height: 5"2
Hair colour: Dark brown/almost black hair that falls into perfect curls all the way down her back
Eye colour: Dark chocolate brown.
Body: Slim and petite, a narrow hips and waist, topped with a full 32B bust.

IC:

As I stand upon my balcony, looking out as I await the man that had captured my young heart, just a few days prior.. well perhaps that was a little bit strong, I liked him of course, he was a lot better than any of the other men I had been introduced to and I also knew that in today's society a woman needed a man and seeing as though I have already turned eighteen, time is running of for me, most lady's were married much younger, but my brother was picky.. and refused to marry me off to just anyone.

Suddenly a pair of hands rest upon the ledge, looking downwards, I allow a small smile to grace my lips as sir Bradshaw presents his self.

"I have requested an audience with the prince and yourself just as you asked my lady" he says gruffly, sir Bradshaw was not exactly royalty, but he was a man of noble descent and I knew that he at least stood a chance, because after all he was not a 'commoner.'

"Remember what I said dear sir, be respectful and nice and he will surely agree to the match" I remind him, though I was not prepared to be married, I knew that I would have to, if I want to make it anywhere in this world.

"Lady Héloise" a voice calls from her bedroom and immediatly I panics.

"Go" I say knowing that if I was caught with a man alone, it would mean big trouble for her repuatation.

He nods, pressing a chaste kiss to the back off my hand, before dissapearing back down. I turn and enter my chambers once again only to be greeted with my personal servent Gytha. "We must get you presentable my lady, the prince has requested your presence in the audience room" she says. I had already dressed, or rather been dressed this morning, so the only thing that needed to be fixed was my hair.

I walk to the dresser table, sitting down and allowing my maid to brush my hair as we make idle chatter about the day as my hair is pulled up into a simple bun. Gytha then ascorts me through the hallways as they enter the room, I quickly curtsey lowly and respectfully to my brother as I see him sat upon his chair. "May I ask what this is all about?" I ask, deciding to pretend I have no idea what is going on, because it would be unacceptable to consort with a man alone before marriage.

 

[swordandsandle]

"I'm not quite sure you have enough evidence here sir," I raised a single hand in judgement, looking down at the two peasent men before me. While I waited for your arrival; ladies could take quite a bit of time, I've learned; I had decided to take up a few cases, getting a bit of my work out of the way. I'd had a vassal knight come in and claim this peasent haden't paid his taxes, two reports of black-bannered horsement on the southern fronteir, and now, a peasent man who was attempted to receive compensation for a bull he claimed his neighbor killed by accident. "I'd offer to pay the cost myself, as you've made enough of a case to show your bull was not killed my natural causes, but concidering how many additonal watchmen I've had to promise to the south, I can't say we have the coin. Next!" The two men walked away, the first a bit sullen, but the later releived. Ah, at least somebody came out of the situation happy.

As the central hearing part of the chamber emptied, I watch with a bit of a softer gaze as I watched you enter the room, a beuty of grace, I must say. Indeed, that same beuty had attracted many, both noble and semi-noble... but none of them at a high enough quality for me to accept their offers. Although, we had ended up losing a few good ladies-in-waiting to these dashing men. Leaning forward in my seat, I allow myself to relax, from my statusque pose of judgement to the more empathetic tact of a diplomat. Still, I can't help but twitch my I as I glance over to the man at your side. His grandfather had been a minor noble, that was true, and he had served my father faithfully and owned a small bit of heritarry land up over in my uncle's jurisition. However, there was just something about him that I could smell a mile off. "Sweet sister, come closer," I give a polite beckon, nodding at your curtsy. In court, at least, you never forgot your manners... although other times, you did have a tendency to bend the principals of ladyhood from time to time. "I do beleive the answer is standing right next to you, princess. Sir Bradshaw, I presume?" I recognized him with a tilt of my hand, shifting my eyes to his.

"It is, prince, and I must say it is an honor to meet my future king," he gave a slight; apperent but not exaderated, bow. I returned with a light nod in his direction. Perhaps I had mistaken him.

"Yes, sir. I understand you've gone thorough a bit of trouble to get here, with the intent of taking the hand of my beloved sister, is that correct?" There was a methiod to this, the whole audence looking on. He would have to tell the truth here... it was expected of him.

"I have been quite smitten by her beuty, prince." He glanced over at you, smiling. At the same time, my face scrunched a bit, as if judging had begun again. "If you would me so noble as to grant me that boon, I would be eternally in your dept."

Slidding back into a straght sitting postion, I ratt my fingers on the chair arm, eyes going first over you, then her. "I do say, if you've been so smitten, you must have taken the time to learn about what I appreciate in a suitor then. So, I'm sure you woulden't mind if I take a bit of time to think this over. After all, this is my heir's regent we are speaking of, should I meet my death childless. While I ponder this, however, please enjoy my full hospitality. Guards," I motion towards the men at the side of the room with my head. "Please show Sir Bradshaw about the Hall. He has access to anything I might have, other then mine own room, my sister's, and the royal vault." And with that, Bradshaw gave a polite bow and took his way out of the room, hand holding onto yours for a bit longer then might seem proper, and I slowly pulled myself out of the chair, backside a bit sore. Sitting down for so long did that to a man.

"Now, I've some personal bussiness to attend to with the princess. Today's audience is over." And with that, taking you about my arm, I slowly took my way out of the room, leaving the small number of remaining men grumbling, although with an understanding tone. Their problems could wait... the marriage of their princess, however, could not.

I lead you down the cold dark hallways, arm drapped about you, walking slow and steady so that you might keep up. I nod and smile at the servents as we pass, having a deep apprecation for their work... though I woulden't go so far as to say admiration. Going up the spiral staircase, I returned with you to your room, leading you down into a sitting postion on the bed and standing over you, stalwart.

"Now," I say quitely, looking you in the eye with a honest tone. "I'd like to ask you two things. One is what you think about Sir Bradshaw, and be honest." I pause for a moment, to let you take the information in. "The other is how he managed to come in at the same time as you. Surly, a man should not be escourting a woman he has only just met?"

 

[Hannah18]

I stand there as I listen to the conversation, it was obvious that I was not a participant in this, so I remain silent, my eyes occasionly lifting from the ground to glance between my brother and my future husband. I was watching for signs, as I had learnt to read them well, the fact that he declared that he was already smitten was not the best plan, it was not what I had instructed him to do, but it may just work.

Finally, the short meeting concludes and I feel the sense of panic begin to set in, thinking about it was not good, the prince often slept on it and so far many a men had been sent away, but ultimatley it was his decision.. something that was highly unfair as this was the rest of my life and I would have to live with it.

"Yes your heighness" I say as I scurry from my spot and movd towards you, manners were important, especially infront of members of the guard, however when we were alone, I tended to let them slip... just a little bit.

The walk to my room is silent, apart from the occasional greeting of servents, strangely I found I was no longer cold in the dark corridors for I had your arm draped around me, something that was a comfort but also a worry.

I allow myself to be led to the bed, where I take my seat, glancing up at your large figure. "I..." I begin to say, before deciding to be as honest as possible. "I think it would be a fair match, he is from a good family brother, not to mention that he adores me and I think I could learn to adore him too" not to mention that I have him wrapped around my finger, and I know that he would not have to be controlled like most women.

My eyes widen as I think the next question over, my hands nervously wringing together, a clear sign that I was worried about something.. this time your reaction. "In truth? Today is not the first time we have met, I have seen him only in passing before" that was a half truth, I had met a couple of times with him before deciding he would make a suitable husband, however I knew this would be unacceptable in your eyes so I choose not to say anything.

 

[swordandsandle]

Honestly, did you think you could hide anything from me? As a prince, it was my job to be able to read people... along with twenty thousand other duties, but reading others was the first and foremost skill of polotics. My eyes constantly moved over your body; your hands, your arms, your legs, your face... all delicate and rather nervious, by the looks of it. "I see," was all I said at first, letting the shift in my stance doing the majority of the talking for me. Flowery speech was good for the court, but as far as dealing with a woman went... you had to be forceful. Otherwise, they coulden't make a decison on anything until they'd been wined and dined and stuffed with sweetmeats. Honestly.

Not sitting down, but indeed streching my back slightly more, I set one arm at my side, as if reaching for a blade. However, as I diden't wear one in court, it was simply a gesture of power more then anything else. "Passing realations would be rather acceptable, woulden't they? However, it does seem a bit of an intresting fact that he became so smitten with you in such a short time, no? Perhaps, for a man of lower birth, I would understand, but your story does not seem to fit the realities." There really wasen't much else to say... although, to be honest, I had a strange feeling that I wasen't dealing with the steel knight that I'd thought.

"Now, I'm going to think this over. However, concidering the mental frailties and wild whims of your sex, I'd like to make one thing clear; Father has intrusted me to deal with you as I see fit. Now, if I where to find out you've been dealing with a man whom isen't good for you behind my back, well, I can't say I'm bellow taking a good idea from peasent fathers to teach you right from wrong." Giving a light shrug, I left the rest to your imagination... where it would no doupt hit you more harshly then I could with my own words. "Remember, I only do this because I care about your well being. Young maidens have a tendency not to be best equipt to select a life partner, you included. However, I will take your opinion into consideration. Good night," placing my hand on your shoulder for a moment and a polite kiss on the cheek, I began the long march back to the royal vaults, where it was that time of the month again to go over expenses.

 

[Hannah18]

I can feel my mouth drop open in shock as you speak to me, sure I have always known the male view on young girls and even woman, but to have them lain out so bluntly so obviously, both angered me and well a small part of me agreed with you, the part that I often silenced, it was just strange to think that a man knows what a woman needs, I was certain they did not.

I gasp as you threaten to punish me like a mere peasant, I had heard stories from local girls, my maids and servents of been belted or strapped, something that thankfully I had only experienced once in my life before, when I was much younger, of course she I refuse to let this show on the outside, I must be on my best behaviour until the marriage is confirmend and i am no longer your responsibility.

"Goodnight brother" I say as I peck you on the cheek, watching as you disapear from my view. I stand as I pull my hair from the tight clasp, letting it flow all the way down my back, a style I was not allowed to were when visiting the court.

I know what I must do tonight.. I must visit sir Bradshaw, for I know if you do first, he will crack and I cannot allow that to happen. Cautiously I open the door to my chamber, peering outside, relieved to see the guard that stands on a night has not get arrived. I walk quietly along the cold floors, my bare feet hitting the unforgiving stone floors, as I make my way to the room I know he will be staying.

Pushing open the door, I enter without knocking, surprised to find sir Bradshaw in his night clothes, my eyes cannot help but wander, I had never seen a man.. at least not one of noble standing so undressed before. When his dark eyes find my own, I see the look of surprise "Lady Héloise if your brother..." he begins.

"I assure you my brother will never know that I have visited" I say as he takes both of my hands clasping them in his own rough ones. "That is what I am here to warn you off, i fear my brother may suspect something" I say with a sigh, noticing the wary look on his face, crossing the future king was never a good idea. "When he makes the decision I need to know you will fight for me" I add.

"My dearest Héloise the prince's decision will be final, you know I cannot change that"

"So you do not love me?" I demand as I rips my hands from his and begins to pace the floors, before turning to glare at him furiously "all that time we spent together, all those nights i allowed you into my chambers, were they for nothing?" I scream, the truth is he had been in my private rooms, but I had refused to let him so much as hold my hand and he was too much of a gentleman to push.

 

[swordandsandle]

"My prince," our local magister of gold; a rather young prodiga of our own, his skin pasty but head rather well set. "There simply isen't enough money coming in from local production to pay for the nessicery border defences in the case of an attack by these strange horsemen," His brow was wrinkled in worry, as I focused in on the scribed reports. It was indeed true; we'd been having a few of our mines fail recently, and a drought just a bit to the north had been playing merry hell on our crops. "We'd need to get in contact with the Crown; I'm sure the king would be willing to provide funds for national defence."

The Vault was dark, wet, and cold... but it was also rather shiny, if the tourchlight landed just right. A nice place to deal with dark, serious bussiness... though I coulden't quite get my mind off Bradshaw and you. To be blunt, I'd need to know more about this man before I made my decission... though he had potential. It was you who was the problem... you thought yourself far more clever then you actually where, so much more stable then you actually where. Indeed, if we would have been of a lower class, I would have whipped some sence into you earlier, but as I cared, I'd given you every chance to become a proper lady. I'd brought in ladies-in-waiting from the capital, given you every feminine pleasure I could think of... but you'd just been too mule-headed. Now, I would have to get a bit harsher if I wanted to get the truth across... and make sure you actually received the life you deserved.

"My lord," I was snapped back into reality by our magister of gold, who touched my arm lightly with his arm. " Is all well?" There was a genunine concern in his voice, something more then an advisory... and I admired that about him. Indeed, he was part of a good family, had good brains, and a will of steel. Perhaps I should name him to be my sister's husband, where I could keep and eye on her.

"I'm quite well," the reports left my hand nonchalantly, as though nothing was amiss. "I agree with your concial. See that a rider is sent to the king post-haste." Although, he'd likely want my sister married off in the near future... I'd been trying to stay out of contact so the issue woulden't come up, but I'd never expected things to last this long.

That night, I lay awake in my bead, a simple set of night-short linens wrapped about my groin and a light wolven vest over my chest. I had thought you'd try to do something funny, so I'd made sure to set a few servents to pass by the room every so often; carrying bedpans, relighting tourchs... the sort of thing that would never raise suspicion. However, if any of them should see the princess of hear anything in Bradshaw's quarters well... I would know. Did she honestly think she'd be able to outsmart her brother? It was just another sign that she needed a strong man to lead her about this world... and needed to learn that. Although the hours went late, I staied up, running over militery reports... things where not looking good in the south ,with men starting to mass in the neighboring state. With any luck, our messanger would ride swift, and we'd be ready to meet them. However... there was always a chance that he would not. In that case, I would have to do the best I could with what few men I had.

"My prince," I noticed a head pop out... one of our night watch, I beleive. "One of the servents told me to inform you that he had heard noises coming from Sir Bradshaw's room. Your royal hospitatliy is requested."

I needed no further prompting, stepping up and walking to the door. "Very good sir," I grabbed my blade from beside the door... so I could tell him "No escourt is needed. On with your duties." With that I took my way down the hall, not the least bit cold... though I will say, I would start to feel it soon.

Nearly throwing open the door, I looked in on the incriminating scene... smiling almost a rougish smile, half amused and half shocked. "Well," I stated calmly, the type of calm one gives when they're in shock... though it not honest, I could fake it so well that nobody could tell. "I simply come to check up on my guest, only to see my harrlot of a sister trying to tempt him into a pre-nuble bed." I stand silently for a moment, looking on you with a deep dissappointment. "I expected more from a woman of you're standing, dear sister. I suppose my little converstion with you diden't sink in."

"Prince, I only," Bradshaw looked into my eyes, a bit worried, his arms extended in a gesture for my attention and patence. But, his voice caught... his own face growing a bit harder. "Can thank you for you're timely arrival. I did not wish to harm her royal personage." Slowly, he retracted himself, his spin showing a bit more steel... as his little princess diden't look so invisable after all.

" You're honesty is well accepted, Sir," I grant him a humble bow, before walking over and grabbing you by the ear, my other hand holding your body to my side. "Rest assured, I shall see that a proper punishment for her lust is deleivered. However, this is really more of a family affair. Please, rest yourself." With that, I pulled you along in and into the hallway, back to you're chambers, shutting and latching the door behind me, blade still in the belt around my waste. Honestly... would you ever learn.

"Well," I finnaly say after staring you down for a good long time. "What do you have to say for yourself? Did I not warn you to leave this to me, and not go following your maiden's whims this way and that? Do you know what you might have done to yourself, making yourself unmarryable?"

 

[Hannah18]

I cannot believe this man, he had stood there and told me that he wanted my hand in marriage, that he adored me and though I did not feel the same,I knew this could be my one chance for something remotley close to happiness. It was true there was no place in society for woman, they just supposed to look pretty and accompany their husbands to a events, I had this idea, I have so much to say, but no one will listen because they think I am just some little girl.

"Lady Héloise..." he begins as he steps closer to me, his hand reaching out and cupping my cheek ever so lightly and I allow him, I want to see what kind of explanation he has for those harsh words.

He opens his mouth again, but never gets the chance to finish, because the door is thrown open, revealing the prince stood there, gazing down at me and sir Bradshaw. I was slightly worried for to be caught in another mans chambers, so close and while he was in such a state of undress was severly frowned on, she would be labled as a whore and if any woman was found in such a situation it would more than likely make her unmarriable to anyone other than a common peasent. And then my own brother has the audacity to label me a harlott, something that I am not nor do I wish to be, I quickly take a few nervous steps back from my future husband, waiting for him to stick up and defend me, though he does not, a fact I should have known, it was the one problem with choosing a weak man, he had no backbone and would not even defend a woman when her honour was in question.

"I..." I look upon him in a mixture of hurt and anger, though he still does not cave, even when the prince grabs my ear, a clear sign that she was in trouble. All too soon I find myself being led up to my room, and unfortunatley I am not just left there, but you accompany me.

"My prince I beg of you to understand" I begin, but I find myself cut off by your rant, honestly could you not just allow me to speak for myself.

All that your words do is make me angrier. "I would never do such a thing, I am not a common whore and I would not act as one" I fume "I only went down there in the first place, to make sure that HE would not screw anything up for me, it took me a long time to find a man as weak as him and you have already jepodized that tonight" I rant, not realising that I may have let more slip than was needed.

Standing from the bed, I slip past you and out onto my balcony, looking out and up at the stars, relishing the cool night air, as I try to calm myself.

 

[swordandsandle]

My head does a small piviot, dismissing your comment. You where simply overcome with emotion, not something that looked particularly good for the excess intellect you claimed to have. Honestly, sometimes it looked as though you though you where Father with teats... but that was hardly the case. However, as a gentlemen, I allowed you to go on with your rant, eyes unmoving, a cool, harsh gaze. I do not leave looking at you, even as you march off onto the balcony, slumping over slightly.

I stand, pondering... perhaps I was being a bit too hard. We'd been such good freinds in youth... but that was before I had taken on the responsablities of princehood. Had it really changed me that much? Had I forgotten what it was like to be tender, to show my posative emotions? A life of noblity was more complicated then many made it out to be. Slowly, by stance softened, eyes losing their angery glaze, before I took one step, then another out onto the balcony, walking up and standing just a bit behind you, gazing out onto the night sky.

"I understand your duress, dear sister," I spoke plainly, my emotions mixed to the point where it was easy to ignore them. "However, I do think you're misinterpretting what just happened. Now, your sir Bradshaw lost his nerve during a simple situation; no swords drawn, you in full clothing, and within your family's own castle, with me not even threatening him in slightest. Now, imagine what will happen the first time he gets put on the spot." I paused, moving in closer, arm pressed lightly to your back. "Even if your plan was to find a husband who's power you could use, I don't think you quite had the maturity or patence to think this through. No weak man is ever capable of holding a position of power. He's a good sword, that's true, but that's all he'll measure up to being." My head turned, hand shifting your face so you looked into mine. "Now, I'm sure that you'd rather not news of this case where brought out, but as your brother, I am bound to inform your suitors of all unrepetented sins. However, because I am care for you, should you promise to act a bit more ladylike, and consent to certain punishments, I will concider the acts undone. Would you accept this?"

 

[Hannah18]

My eyes widen as I stand there, unable to believe how I have just acted, what I have just with such a tone of disrespect, one should never adress their brother in such a way, nevermind the prince, but I was hurt not just by my brother's actions but those of sir Bradshaw too, how can a man who claims to be 'smitten' with me, a man who wants to marry me bow so quickly just to save his own skin.

I gulp as I feel a presence behind me, but I am surprised by your speech. "I though I had it all figured out brother, a man who I could wrap around my finger, a man who was weak, who would allow me and who I could to claim a place in society" I begin, figuring that I may as well be honest know, I have nothing to loose. "But.. he didn't defend me, he acted as though I did something wrong. It makes me wonder if that is not the type of man I need, what would happen if we were under attack would he even care" I say, hurt clear in my voice.

" Though I do understand that I should not have gone to his room" I say as I turn to face you "and you have my deepest of apology's for that."I reach out and touch your arm tenderly, looking up at you with pleading eyes. "I would appreicate that and I accept your offer, though I would like to inform you the I am still... pure and will be until I marry" I say, feeling the need to once again reasure you that i have not done anything wrong or that would be frowned upon.

 

[swordandsandle]

Internally, I struggle to deal with your words. While I'd always expected there was something unladylike about you (though I never could imagine where you got it from), I had never expected it to be quite that severe. Slow, I turn myself so my whole body is facing you, not just my face. My stance shifted slightly, shifting the weigh slightly onto my left foot. "I suppose it can't be helped. Part of this is my own fault. After all, I have been neglecting my duties as your elder sibling for the affairs of court. You have all the energy... you just haven't learned the proper places to channel it to." I slowly walk you back into the room, giving one last, forlorn glance to the beuty of the night. "I assure you, I'll make sure that you don't almost make a faitle mistake like that again. All I ask is that you listen to what I say, alright?"

We then stand there inside, looking each other in the face. At least you had the manners to apologize correctly... perhaps I could still salvage the situation. "You have my forgiveness as your brother," I smile simply, taking your hand in mine. "However, you must understand that as your prince, I must ensure that justice is done and the lesson is learned. Now, if you would be a good lady, please lay yourself face down on the bed so that I might begen the purging." I sence a flicker of fear and uncertaintiy, but calm you quickly, lightly guiding you over, laying you down on the bed tenderly. "There will be no marks, I assure you. but what is perseaved as a sin of the flesh must be cleaned by the flesh." A bit begrudgingly, lowering myself down both physically and in social grance, I lay a single hand upon your rear, before lifting it up and slapping down harshly, though not hard enough to leave a mark through the material.

 

[Hannah18]

I knew that it was not acceptable for a lady to behave in such a way, especially not one of royal standing, but I find it unfair that if a man did it, it would be fine.. many would congradulate him, but because I am a woman it means that I am deemed wrong, or a whore for going after my desires. Or to be told that I was wrong, to be treated like a common peasent, it angered me, I was well educated of the world, yet I cannot have an opinion on it or use my education.

I find myself being led back into the bedroom and that is when I realise that I will be punished.. that I will not get off lightly. And then you say it.. that I am going to be punished harshly, I stand there fear spreading throughout my entire body, this is not what I had planned. "Yes my lord" I say gracefully but reluctantly as you lay me on the bed, but I was determined that I would take it like a proper young woman.

I feel your hand on my rear end, gasping as it suddenly pulls back, the next thing I hear is a 'whoosh' through the air before a sharp pain spreads through my backside. I grit my teeth tighter to present myself from crying out, it hurt so badly.. this is why I did not want a dominant husband, because as much as I tried I still find myself getting into such situations. "Please brother take pity on me, I promise that I will be better behaved in the future.

 

[swordandsandle]

I never quite understood why woman always though the distinction was primerly between men and woman. Indeed, to be honest, it was more of a distiction between social classes. A peasent woman was not looked down upon for being a whore... indeed, having many children was concidered a badge of honor. However, a noblemen who consorted with more then one woman, especially those of a lower class, where rediculed. Still, there was not way to reason with such things, and so you just let them be.

"Your brother does not want to do this, sweetness." my voice apoligetic, but firm, as I lift by hand for another blow. "However, your prince knows that you must be punished. I promise, I will not be cruel," another blow came down as I finished, making a light, cushioned slapping sound. While I could not see under the dress, I could only hope I was not doing too much damage.

I continued for ten strokes, slowing down and reducing force on the last three, speaking no more and keeping my eyes locked straght down. As a noble of Yith, it was my duty to punish breakage of rules with my own hand among the other noblity; we where not beleivers in executions and headsmen. However, my heart hurt as I did it... but I still took a certain peace form it, know that it would make her think twice before planning such a silly, ill informed stunt again. "It is done," I flip you over in position after the tenth blow, so that our eye's met. "Now, have you learned the error of your ways?" I lightly cradled your face as I spoke, just so you would know that your brother was back, the prince put to sleep for a spell.

 

[Hannah18]

I whimper slightly as blow after blow is rained down upon me, it hurt and I hated the punishment, but in a strange way it made me feel relieved and as if a burden had been lifted from me and in a way it had, I know longer had to feel as though I had done something wrong, or feel guilty.

I gasp as I feel myself being turned around, the tears still evident in my eyes, but I refuse to allow them to fall, to show that weakness. I look up meeting your soft gaze and I find myself unable to be angry about the situation, but I cannot help but think of how this would look if a servant walked in right now.

"Yes my brother" I whisper softly, my cheek leaning in to the warmness of your large hand. "But if I may ask you something opening and honestly" I add, I didn't want to be punished again, but it was troubling me.

"I do not understand, I have been searching for so long for a man who would not treat me as some sort of trophy to show off to the world, but as an equal and when I find him.." I pause and sigh. "He dissapoints me by betraying me.." I hesitate "what am I supposed to want from a husband? I do not want to live a life of confinment" I finish, as I pull my lower lip through my teeth, chewing on it nervously. I knew you would give me the answers I needed, at least that is what I hoped.

 

[swordandsandle]

My fingers lightly stroke your face, being content with your honesty. "That is a difficult question to answer, princess," I plumb into my mind to find the words. It was, indeed, complex, and must be worded properly. I shift myself into the bed next to you, my eyes slowly wandering as I work this out.

"We're all born into life with certain responsablities, and certain privlages. Some are kings, others peasents, but we are all slaves to the station of our fathers and mothers." I look a bit, forlorn at this, painful memories of my own duties shining across my brain. "Take me, for instance. I have power, intellgence, and no small amout of wealth... yet I am chained to my title," she at least would remember me from before.. and could understand how I had changed. "It has changed me, made me a sort of man that, while I've come to admire him, isen't exactly me. You, sweetness, you bear chains just as I do. A different sort, yes, but bondage all the same. If you seek a man who will treat you as an equal, he will be your equal... and will not be able to stand up to the sort of man who would treat you as a lady. As for what you are supposed to think, I can't make you think anything, but I swear to you that I will seek out a man who cares for you just as much as I, yet is just as strong and confident. Do you understand?" I allow myself to linger for one more moment before standing up, unable to keep myself here any longer. "Now, I wish you goodnight." A light kiss goes to your forehead before I retire to my chambers, plopping into my bed after throwing off my blade, falling into a sleep.

 

[Hannah18]

I listen to you as you speak, my eyes widening as you tell me that you feel chained to your title, something that I must admit I have never thought off, but now I understand where you are coming from, it must be hard to be a prince, to bear the pressure of everything that comes along with it. I remember when we were children and everything was so simple, I longed for those days.

"Surely there is an inbetween" I say more to myself than to you. "I put my trust in you brother, I am sure that you will do your best to find an agreeable match for me" I tell you honestly, and I had every faith in you, tonight just reminded me of the love you held for me. "I do not think sir Bradshaw is for me" I admit just as you leave to room.

"The problem is I don't think I will ever find someone as perfect as you" I whisper to myself, you were everything that a woman could want in a man.

Sighing, I strip down and change into my nightclothes; often the servents would dress me, but tonight that was not so, crawling into bed, I fall into a restless sleep.

 

[swordandsandle]

I awoke the next morning, feeling the weight of a long night on my shoulders. I had half a mind to tell the guards outside to fetch a page to help me dress... but that was something I could not do. I had my dignity as a man, after all. So, muscles and bones a bit aching, but mostly a heavy pressure in my face, I pulled out another suit of regalia; a more soft, dress suit then the leathers of judgement. We where expecting a royal visitor today, the Archduke of a nearby principality who'd be on his way to the capital to marry one of our cousions, and it was my duty as the prince and master of the border to welcome him, show him our hospitality, and get him up the speed on the things he'd missed on his journy... and perhaps warn him of the horsemen who where approching both his land and ours. Still, as I buttoned up the bronze clasps, I could not help but wonder if he'd actually arrive, or if I'd have to wait a few days in agonizing stasis, all of our resources dedicated to his eventual arrival. It would be a nightmare... and of course I would be the one to take the blame.


As I walked through the palace, I had noticed the large influx of men and servents. All of the knights and powerful landowners in our province had come to the caste for this perlimerary wedding feasts, and for every one of them came two manservents, three maids, a groom, and half a dozen assorted others, and all of them where roaming the palace. As I worked my way down to the Great Hall, I found myself receiving more "Beg pardons" then I had all of the year. This got very annoying, very fast, but I kept a straght face and put up with it... such was the price of princedom.

"Excuse me sir," I adressed one of the boys, a page who'd been sent from a minor noble family a few days' ride north. "Could you be so kind as to fetch the princess? The whole palace would be gathering, and I would enjoy it if she would allow me to escourt her to her place."

"Most certainly, sire," the boy seemed energetic.. a trait not very common amongest some of the others we'd received, and headed off in a huff, as I waited outside the doors of the Great Hall for her.

 

[Hannah18]

I awake early the next morning, as the sunlight streams through my windows, but I was still exhausted from my restless sleep. "Lady Héloise, good morning" the servent says with a small curtsey. "I am here to dress you" I frown as I had not seen this woman before, I had a small number of maids and it was usually one of them.

"Of course" I say with a sharp nod as I throw the covers back off of the bed, sitting up and moving to standing position as I allow myself to be dressed and primped for the day, just short of an hour later I am done. "You are dismissed" I say, feeling the need to be alone.

I walk to the balcony lost in my thoughts of what has happened over the last couple of days. It was a lot to process. A short while later I hear a knock on the door. Sighing I turn "you may enter" I call out.

I am surprised to find a young man stood in the doorway, thankfully he did not enter as that would not be proper. "His highness has requested your presence at the great hall" he says.

"Do you know what is going on" I enquire as I had not been told, but I had noticed the castle was in a rush these days.

"Of course my lady, we have a visitor and it is required of the entire court to be in attendance" oh of course.

"Very well." I notice that he does not move, so I exit the room and walk down to the grand hall with him at my side. I smile shyly as I see you stood out there waiting for me. Leaving his side, I rush over to you. "Good morning my prince, sleep well" I enquire as I slip my hand through your arm.

 

[swordandsandle]

A sleepy smile comes onto my face as I catch you coming towards me, through the massive body of humanity mulling its way towards the door. "I'm afraid not, sister," A slight yawn escapes as I end my sentance, quite sure that it would remain unoticed by the public. "I've been, thinking too much as of late. Still, that is the price of princehood, no?" Keeping a fair distance between our bodies, I pull you in slightly with my arms, so that we would look proper. "Now, stand up straght, don't fidget, and remember what I've taught you, ok? I'd rather not give a bad impression to the future husband of our cousion." Leading you along, I pull us into the Great Hall... mostly taken up by a large table for the feast, various servents and reatainers already occupying the lower sections. However, as prince and princess, we where entitled to the head of the table, and so this is where we went, the eyes of many men and woman of the various courts looking onto us with longing... indeed, if I haden't been so busy with trying to find a decent match for you, Father would have insisted I find myself a wife straght away.

Once we reach the head of the table, the judgement seat slid into the center of the head, two eleveated, cushioned seats at the side, fine plates and goblets set about before us. Delitacatly, I pull the chair on my left out for you to sit in, beconing to it, before setting myself down, hardening my stature for when our guest arrived. Thankfully, I heard murmerings amoung the guards on my way down that his retinue had been spotted in the distance, so we would not have to be waiting too long.

Sir Bradshaw entered a bit later, looking slightly ill at ease, putting himself down about at the spot of the second salt, looking up for only a breif moment. I had been right about the man; he had no spine. Thankfully, I'd interfered in the situation before my sister had made such a youthful mistake.

After waiting for a about fifteen minutes, the door finnaly open, trupeters hearlding the arrival of our guest. He was rather large... I'd say over 6 feet, by the looks of it, and handsome in a certain rugged way. He walked with a poise, almost stomping slight, as he approched, both I and the rest of the hall rising from our chairs to great him. Finnaly, he steps up to the head, standing next to the seat on my right.

"Prince Veldim," I nod in his direction, speaking loud for the whole room to hear. "I welcome you to our humble table, as Prince of Yith. Please, partake of our bounty before you head off to wed." Of course, it would take a moment for the first course to arrive, so we all set ourselves down, the kitchen staff starting to go into a frenzy.

"And good day to you too, sir," Prince Veldim's voice was a bit scratchy, but obviously cultured. "And is this your lovely bride? She is certainly a beuty."

A bit embarressed, I struggle to hide the blush. "We do look well together, but you mistake. This is my younger sister, Lady Héloise."

 

[Hannah18]

I sigh lightly, but give a curt nod, I understood what you were saying and I would have to do what I did so many times before, hold back the retorts and stay out of the conversations.. at least for now, for I did not want to disgrace the family name or indeed the prince. "Of course brother" I say in that sickly sweet tone as you escort me into the dining room and we take our places at the table. I survey the men and women sitting there all gazing up at us.. well you in particular, many with to have your position, but I do not think they understand just how much strain it puts on you.. I know that I did not until recently.

I watch as Sir Bradshaw enters the room, not even having the common decency to look up at me.. to think that I also married this man? It was a lucky escape that is for sure.

Thankfully my thoughts are taken away from the weak willed man as I see my brother rise, followed by the rest of the table, I too stand, watching as the man enters the room... All I could think was that their cousin had done well for herself with this man.

I watch as my brother greets the man, only sitting when he does. I struggle to hide the giggle as he suggests that I am my brothers bride, but behind the amusment there is a hint of longing. As I am introuced, I smile "It is a pleasure to finally meet you sir, rest assured that I have heard much of you... all positive of course" I say, the tone polite, but I could not resist having a slightly dig. "Though I am not his bride you must agree that he would make a good husband, unlike some men in this room" I say, my tone oozing of false politness as I stare directly at sir Bradshaw, watching as he squirms in his seat, flinching back, I was pretty sure that the entire table got my meaning.

"May I ask to whom you are reffering?" I turn glancing back at the man who now had a small hint of amusment in his eyes.

I glance up at you, before sighing, knowing that I must not take it further and cause a scene "It was just a general observation sir" I say, as I pick up my fork and begin to eat.

 

[swordandsandle]

I sit silently as the converstaion unfolds... perhaps a bit glad that I was able to get a little rest from the normal social burden I would have to bare in a time like this. Idilly, I swish the wine in my goblet around a bit, before taking a small, polite sip... a bit sour, but it was old grape; our next batch would be coming in in a few weeks. Still, I had to hold up my hand to end the conversation around me as the waiting staff came up onto the head, bearing large plates of roasted boar, mixed vegtibles, veal and mutton. Cerimoniously, I take the boar, offering it first to Veldim, who cuts off a rather large chunk, and then to you, cutting you a large but reasonable peice, and then placing a bit on my own plate. Then the hall erupts back into its previous chaos, more and more wait staff hustling around, jugbearers bringing more wine to the lower levels. Taking my bit of meat lightly, I cut a peice out of it, lightly chewing it in my mouth.

My eyes go back down to Bradshaw, taking a large bit of veal but otherwise ignoring the rest, drowing his wine... after the stress of his night here, that would make a good deal of sence. Still, I had to start up a bit of conversation, so turning back to Veldim, swallowing my meat, I begin to speak.

"So, I've heard my father gave you his personal blessing for marrying our cousion. I must say, that is not very easy to obtain." I take another small sip of wine before returning to the conversation. "You must be a man of many talents, and good blood as well."

"You honor me," he spoke modestly... a true modisty, not a false front like so many others. "I've done a few things in my time, that is true, but I've never done enough to get the approval of such a great man. Your father is far superior to me. Just look at his children."

I smile lightly and give a true chuckle at the truth in his voice. "My sister is a beuaty, that is true, and I'm not failure myself. However, we've had our own problems. In obtaining spouses, in particular."

"Well, no man is perfect," he muses, almost philosphically. "Take me, I coulden't swim to save my life. Had a rather embaressing incident in the moat as a child. Still," he reached over as the stewed vegtables started to be passed around, taking a bit for himself. "I'd like to here a bit more about my bride, if the two of you would be so kind. I'm certain your sister has thing to say, no?"

 

[Hannah18]

I only half listen to the conversation around me, I hated gatherings such as this, when one had to be careful of what they said so that they did not offend.. I small grin works it's way over my face as I hear his question, well I always had something to say.

I put my fork back onto my plate and chew carefully and swallow the meat in my mouth before answering. "I am afraid that it has been a short while since I last saw her, although we were close in her youth" I smile fondly as I think of the years we all spent together. "I am sure she could teach you to swim, we spent many a summer in the lakes" I say a little unsure of the reaction he would have to that.. it could go one way or the other.

Thankfully he laughs though and I allow myself to relax just slightly. "I hope you do not find me too bold when I say that you are not the man that I expected" I state as I look up on him.

I watch as he puts the piece of meat back to the plate "How so?" he enquires obviously interested in what I have to say.

"Well my cousin has always been..." I trail off as I struggle to find the right words. "As ashamed as I am too say, she has always been a proper lady" I admit. " I expected someone more traditional" I state, someone who would have overlooked me easily, this man had not.

"Now I do not believe that for one second" he says and I smile "I must confess that your cousin is a great woman and I am lucky to have her as a bride" I knew that I liked this man.

"I can you much more for I have much to say but now is not the time to discuss it" I say as I scan the table, my eyes resting on sir Bradshaw, noting that he is once again staring at me. "Perhaps my brother would be kind enough to entertain you with some stories" I glance up at you, focusing the attention away from me. I needed to talk to sir Bradshaw and if he did not stop staring, I would have to excuse myself from the table and do it during dinner.. hopefully though it can wait.

 

[swordandsandle]

Mentally sighing, I accept the fact that it was my turn to take up the burdan... it always ended up coming back to me. "Of course, dear sister," I state, a bit sleeply. "I woulden't want to tire you out so early in our esteemed guest's visit. Let me see," I plumb my mind for the right idea... before coming up with something rather nice.

"Your eastern border is close to our south, correct?" I ask politly, know the answer. "Concidering your journy, you may not have heard, but we have a bit of a problem of horsemen massing there. Our reports tell us they're from the nation there, but I'm not so convinced. I'm a bit worried...." then I realize I was rambling, caught up on the issues in my mind. "I'm sorry to bore you with the matters of state, I've been under alot of stress lately." It was blatently obvious, but I though it best to say so, so that there would be no misunderstanding.

Thankfully, he gives a light smile. "Its written all over your face, brother." He speaks solemly. "I have heard of these men you speak of, and what I can say is, we aren't exactly on the best terms with that state either. I'm worried they may be planning a premptive attack. We've sent an envoy.. but he has yet to return. I trust you've sent back to the capital for assistance?"

"As a matter of fact," I allow myself to relax for a moment, grabbing at the passing baked yams. "We have. All I can hope is they get back in time..." duress was obvious... but at least I had one here who understood being a prince.

 

[Hannah18]

I hated this talk, I knew that we were facing a bit of trouble, but I had not known the state of the affairs, I suppose that was the one good thing about being a woman, it was not our concern, therefore we were not told of such happenings. I listen only half heartedly as I push the vegtables around on the plate with my fork.

I glance over at sir Bradshaw, nodding towards the door, thankfully he gets the message and leaves making his excuses.

As soon as you have spoken. I turn slightly. "Gentleman do you really think that this is appropriate dinner conversation?" I ask, glancing between the pair of you.. because I knew very well that it was not. "We should be celebrating the arrival of our guest instead of worrying what will happen." I state firmly.

"Now if you will excuse me, I will be back shortly" I say addressing no one in particular. I stand and leave quickly before anyone can object.

Exiting the room, I grab sir bradshaw by the hand, leading him upstairs and out of sight. "How dare you?" I question.

"My lady, I still wish to marry you and I am sure that I will have your brothers consent."

I glare at him, "It does not matter if you have my brothers blessing, I will not marry you, you betrayed me and my husband could never be so spineless. I demand that you leave... Immediatly"

His eyes darken. "You have no authority to ask me to go" he says his hand raising in the air, looking as though he is going to hit me.

I gasp as I move away "No perhaps I do not, but if I told the prince our courtship and your actions tonight, he would not be pleased." I watch in satisfaction as his hand drops and he is suddenly resigned.

"I shall leave with in the hour" he stutters weakly as he walks away.

I go back down, pushing open the doors of the hall, seeing that t is already on the table. I go back to my seat, not even offering and excuse.

 

[swordandsandle]

Closing my eyes, I do a little eyeroll at your comment before silently and politly waiting for you to finish, working away at my vegtables. She obviously diden't understand the severity and complexity of the situation... again, obviously desplaying your lack of the intellgence you claimed to posses. I made a mental note to take you to more offical royal functions... if only to give you the understanding that you diden't understand them.

"You'll have to excuse her," I apologize after you leave, looking back up at Veldim. "My sister claims to have an understanding of the world, but as you might have deduced, she dosen't really understand the nessicery nuances of it."

"She's a... spirted one," he states dismissivly, trying to be polite about it. "Our family's seen our fair share as well. Give her a few years, she'll understand reality in time."

A few minutes of akward silence followed... though it was smoothed out quite nicely by both of us taking the time to finish our share of the course. Honestly, while I was fairly certain I knew what you where up to, I decided it wasen't worth it to get involved, even setting aside the spectical it would cause for me to leave now, though I was reflecting on the idea that I would have been wise to visit a chamberpot before the feast began. Honestly, it diden't make the food any more appitising... but we where down to the last perserves from last year's harvest, what more could be expected?

Finnaly, just as the fruit fritters and sweetmeats started to come out the kitchen, I notice you approching the platform, slipping back a hand to push in your seat as you sat down. "Welcome, princess," Veldim gives another greating... a bit uneducated on your current issues. "I trust your trip went well?"