---

---

Emilia was up a bit earlier than usual this morning as it was time for her to departure from her land of Sevaviel and go on over to the lands of Thirmos, to hopefully marry their Crowned Prince, Rowan. Her maidens had already packed her luggage of the things that she will need and loaded them up on a carriage that was waiting for her. She was prepped and dressed and ready to go but of course, her mother wanted to see her before she parted. A male servant came into her room, letting her know that her mother is in the throne room and requesting her presence. Emilia made a slight face then nodded her head, waving the male servant away.

She rose herself up from the bed and walked down the hall then down a few stairs before making her presence felt in the throne room. People bowed down to her and muttered the words 'My Queen' or 'Your Grace' as she walked past them. She stood now just mere inches from her mother, who sort of glared at her up and down. "Look at you, my darling daughter. Off to marry the Crown Prince of Thirmos. Well, I hope you know that I am not sending you there alone." Her words were slurred so Emilia just had to interrupt her mother there immediately. "I know, which is why I already requested that two of my ladies in waiting come along, Princess Elissa, Lord Aldurin Ranold and Sir Lachlan of the Royal Guard." She smiled but soon turned it into a smirk as her mother looked at her. "Oh, so you have it all figured out." Emilia chuckled softly. "I wish to have this argument with you, mother but I must depart as they are awaiting for my arrival at Thirmos." With those words spoken, she turned heel and walked out of the throne room, gracefully.

Emilia had made it outside, where everyone was lined up except her mother, of course and wished her safe travels to Thirmos. She thanked her people then boarded her carriage alone while waving her people goodbye as the carriage took off. Emilia had her sister, Elissa and her ladies in waiting riding in the same carriage behind her and had Lord Aldurin and Sir Lachlan, riding together in the carriage ahead of them. Just in case any problems were to happen on their destination towards Thirmos.

It has been what seemed like years since she has visited the lands of Thirmos and forgotten all about the scenery towards there. Everything was beautiful and green that if she sniffed the air it would not be polluted in any kind of way. Emilia loved that about Thirmos lands that it was clean, breath taking and somewhat inspiring. Though, she did have her father there with her but this time is different. Emilia misses her father deeply and wishes that he could be right beside her right now but something about his death wasn't right. Her mother says that he was killed by someone from Cylla that had crossed their lands but then again, how did that happen. She bit her lower lip, thinking more and more about it now but soon pushed the thought into the back of her head as she saw that they were just mere inches from the castle of Thirmos.

With a breath, she felt the carriage stop and saw the door open. 'Here goes nothing.' She thought to herself while stepping on the steps, grabbing the hand of her rider and walked down the steps. Her eyes went over towards Lord Aldurin and Sir Lachlan with a smile then over towards her Ladies in Waiting and Elissa. She walked over towards the three ladies and squealed then hugged them all. "I am so happy that your parents said yes to my request, Juliet and Melanie." She said with a smile then winked towards her sister before turning her back towards them. "Shall we?" She started to walk up towards the castle but seen people outside as if they were really waiting for her.

Her eyes scanned the perimeter as she saw the King, Queen, Princess, Prince and there he was, the Crown Prince. Her cheeks blushed a bit as she looked towards her companions for this trip then kept on walking up to the hosting family. Emilia curtsied towards them and eyed every single one of them with a smile then stared at the King. "I thank you for allowing me to come and stay in your lands until the wedding day of me and the Crowned Prince, Rowan." Her eyes went towards him then back to the King. "It's been years it feels like since I've been here. Was I missed?" She asked with a chuckle then stopped talking so that the King could have his say.

She waited to hear if he was going to offer his condolences for her father's death and wishes her mother the best. She knew that it was coming because then again, it was a respectful thing to do.

---

5 Years Ago
A forest near Thirmos' Castle

Cilla eyed the bear with nervous anticipation as she dropped the carcass of a rabbit she had managed to kill just a few minutes earlier. She gripped her blade in both hands, creeping through the underbrush in the hopes that the beast would not wake up. Soon she was upon it, standing over the sleeping giant like a hero would over his fallen villain. She brushed her loose and long hair away from her eyes and over her ears before positioning her sword near the bear's head and going in for the kill.

But alas, things did not go as planned, they often never do. Her hands, veritably drenched with sweat, allowed the blade to slip and strike the bear's eye rather than slit its throat. It awoke immediately with an ear-deafening roar. It rose to its full height as Cilla quivered with fear, she fell back just as the bear swiped. The gargantuan claw only managed to dig one of its talons into, Cilla's face. But that was enough. She was bleeding profusely within the first few seconds of the claw ripping out of her soft, pale skin.

Tears began streaming down her face as she rose to her feet and sprinted back to the castle. She could hear the bear adjusting itself, locking its eyes onto her and taking chase. The chase went on for what seemed like hours, with Cilla slowly tiring and the bear gradually gaining on her in a chase that Cilla began to realize she wasn't going to win.

Just then she heard the bear growl in pain and fall against a tree, shaking it and causing small green leaves to drift slowly down onto the bears corpse. She turned and slowly approached it, still crying as much as she was when the bear wounded her. She pulled the arrow from its skull, looking around for an answer until she finally spotted her father on horseback wielding a bow and arrow. Of course with the urgent situation at hand he was still wearing his night gown. She would have laughed if she wasn't so scared.

---

Present Day
Castle Thirmos, Cilla's room

Cilla finished tying her hair back as she reached for her sword with the other hand. Of course, her parents had wanted to wear a dress for her soon-to-be sister-in-law's arrival, but Cilla had reasoned that if they were to be sisters then she ought to see Cilla as she truly was rather than uphold a facade. Of course, it was all overtly dramatic and soppy, but, Cilla found this tactic worked more often than not.

She moved to the window, before sitting on the ledge and staring out onto Thirmos. All of the planning and preparation about her brother's wedding and whatnot had gotten Cilla thinking about her own love life. To be quite honest, it was rather hard for any royal to find proper love that wasn't arranged by their parents. Cilla often warned her family that if any of them tried to force her into marriage then she'd go and marry a homeless leper before they'd even managed to choose a ponce for her to wed.

Cilla had been in love just once, and it didn't end well. She disguised herself and went out into Thirmos as a commoner. She met a troubadour by the name of Elizabeth and they had practically fallen in love at first sight. Of course, the relationship could never work, what with Elizabeth being both female and a commoner. She left town within the second month of knowing Cilla and Cilla of course kept the relationship a secret to herself.

Nevertheless, it wasn't her wedding and she wasn't exactly in the mood to go looking for anyone so she focused her mind or more important matters. One of which was meeting her new sister-in-law. She at least hoped she wouldn't be the stereotypical airhead with no backbone. Rowan needed someone to slap him on the back of the head every now and then when he got too mouthy or got too...promiscuous.

She left her room and went to eat breakfast before making final preparations before meeting her family outside to wait for the queen regent. The preparations weren't massive, and consisted of, Cilla moving a strand of hair in a desperate effort to hide her scar, along with fixing her shirt and making sure her boots weren't dirty. As much as she disliked to admit it, she was rather sensitive about the scar and vain in a sort of round-a-bout way. She watched as the queen regent began approaching the family. Cilla gave a small
"Greetings." as Emilia finished speaking.

Sighing internally as her eyes scanned the beautiful castle around her, Elissa mirrored her older sister's curtsy and offered a smile. She had to act nice, though she and the princess of this land got along fair enough, it was still unsettling to be in another's kingdom. The fact that she hadn't been able to sleep last night --not due to nerves-- wasn't helping her current uneasy state, she liked traveling but right now? She wanted to find a good book and curl up for awhile. She focused her gaze on her sister then away, she kept quiet and her head down, she was the second child and had it ingrained into her bones that she was nothing special. She was in the sense like her brother, a person but a waste of space. Rolling her shoulders slightly, Elissa sighed softly and linked her fingers behind her back. The quicker these introductions went, the quicker she could find a quiet place and take a cat-nap, or better yet she could wonder the halls.

Fighting a yawn, Elissa focused on the scenery in the courtyard and willed herself to relax. The fingers of her left hand twitching absently at her side, her right hand twisting in the material of her gown, the loose strands of hair that had fallen free from her braid swayed in front of her face as another breeze blew around them all. She found the love between her sister and the prince sickenly sweet, she avoided them both as they continued to stare at one other. She shifted her gaze to her brother and offered him a half-smile, the slowly darkening sky as thick clouds of gray filtered through the sky had a full smile tugging on her lips. Rain was good, blinking her eyes and ignoring the itch, Elissa remainded still and quiet. She almost wished something would happen, something unexpected and new, she was bored and exhausted, never a good conbination. @HushedWhispers

The day is a fine one. Sitting in my small chamber in the castle library I can see and hear all. You see the problem with castles that hold library is that they often either want the library to be important, or to be less important. These political wrecks of nobility were however very keen on showing their love for the arts by having it overlook the main gate. Not the best of placements for when there is a attack, you would be shocked at the tables ive lost to a heavy footed archer running in. Anyway, memory's of a fruit cake.

Anyway, where were we? Oh yes. Looking over the gate. From my 'vantage point' and I use that term loosely given how many windows are boarded up... there I go again! I saw the trade caravans coming through, marked with royal seals to show how important they are. Its quite funny how royalty use their seals as a shield... I should write that down. Any-who, they were coming in, which meant I was to re arrange the castle, a feat that I had only just put into motion.

Racing through the castle shouting far too much I got the same dull response. "Yes sir" or "Immediately sir", such a hard job being the only smart noble in this kingdom. The only noble who can get a job done without using a sword. Standing in the courtyard looking at the keeps gates, huge ones they are, made of the finest oak in all the lands. Fitted with bolts of iron they could take anything. Thy wont be today as they are open and there is but a skellington crew on the walls, an attack would ruin us if it was sprung but I hope that the savages from the surrounding kingdoms will be less likely to spring such a dishonerable move as such is there customs.

Again! More rabalings. Running out at a rather fast pace for a man who is no fighter anymore. A man who should be paid more than he is. He stands at the end of the line beside Cilia out of breath. "Good... Evening. Ceilia, what did I miss my lady?"
@Mr_pink

Caeling stood to the side of the proceedings, watching, and standing guard. So this was the victim of our diplomatic negotiation. She had a regal bearing, with the look about her of a dutiful queen. She would do quite well as ruler of Thirmos, and wife of his brother.

The people would be happy as well. They simply loved such proceedings quite well, with the grand appearances, and the fanfare. They would also take comfort in the possibility that Emilia's soft, womanly ways would temper her husband's aggressiveness.

Scanning the crowd for signs of trouble, he found none, but he did find someone doing the same thing. That must be the bastard. He had heard of him. A good enough fellow, to be sure, but with no respect. Regardless, he was the sort who you would want involved in a marriage involving Rowan.

He shifted in his armour. He would have to talk to the guard soon.

As was his custom since the days of riding with his Fathers Army, Alaric woke just as the first rays of the morning sun sliced through the darkness of the bed chamber, casting a soft glow upon the curves of the woman that laid at his side. He yawned then stretched and for a moment let his thoughts wander, enjoying the peaceful stillness of dawn, he rolled over on his side facing the woman lying on her belly and turned away from him, he placed a palm upon the small of her back and slowly slipped his hand up along her spine relishing the feel of her soft smooth skin under his calloused hand.

Since the time he took his first steps he had been trained and taught in the ways of combat and war, glory and honor from a battle won, the conquering of an enemy and the subjugation of his people and lands had been his world, things such as tenderness, affection, gentleness and love were signs of weakness and had no place within the heart of a warrior, but all of that changed the day she stepped into his life. His fingers now toyed with the long tresses of silk like hair that hung about her shoulders, she moaned and stirred softly but remained fast asleep.

It had been an arranged marriage, an agreement between his Father and a lesser Lord to keep the Lord from losing his holdings and title due to a lost wager made during a jousting tournament. Alaric had never seen nor heard of the woman until the day they were wedded, but the moment he lifted her vail after the Priest pronounced them man and Wife and he looked into her eyes, his life was forever changed.

Feeling amorous now, he nudged her slightly and got yet another murmer of soft protest at his urging, he smiled to himself and decided to let her be, then the thought crossed his mind as to how many more children they would of had, if he had not spent the better part of five, almost six years securing lands for his Father instead of romping about like a pair of rabbits with his young Bride. A soft knock and the sliding of the doors bolt stirred him from his thoughts and he spun about, tossed the furs away and rose to his feet with a deep growl in his hushed tone of voice, "Stand your place or I'll have the flesh flayed from your backside...give me but a few moments more and ye may enter and tend to her Highness".

Now dressed and letting the visibly shaken Handmaiden of the Queen enter the Chamber, he strode down the stone hall to the stairway leading down to the greathall of the inner Keep where the morning meal was laid out upon the tables by still sleepy eyed servants who had long since learned it was better to lose sleep then encounter a hungry King. He spotted Cilla, a frown crossing his face as he noted her choice of attire, he started to comment but held his tongue and nodded his head instead in way of greeting as he approached his seat, today was not the day to be spent in a winless argument over the proper attire of a Princess. Before seating he took hold of a knife and speared a few pieces of venison, cheese and bread, took another glance at his Daughter, noting she seemed lost in her own thoughts before he sat and ate in silence.

A moment later a servant appeared and hasting placed a tankard of meade before him then hurried off, he finished the last few bites of venison left on the plate, then drained the tankard of its contents and rose to his feet, he started to walk past his Daughter but then stopped and turned to face her back. Stepping toward her, he draped his right arm over her shoulder and gently hugged her about the neck, with his left hand he ruffled her hair playfully, "How is it to be that the spirit of a mighty warrior should come to be found within the form of a Princess", he chided softly, "Were I to have but a mere hundred warriors with tenacity such as yours, the world would be mine to rule". He held her briefly then kissed the top of her head before letting go and returning to his chambers to dress for the days coming event.

Alaric stood along with the others and watched in awe as the Queen of Sevaviel came forth with her entourage, were once a lil Princess, nothing but knees and elbows walked, now came a young Lady of striking beauty. he followed her glance toward Rowan whom may as well have been a statue of stone, whatever his feelings were at the moment, he managed to keep well hid behind a mask of indifference.

"I thank you for allowing me to come and stay in your lands until the wedding day of me and the Crowned Prince, Rowan, It's been years it feels like since I've been here. Was I missed?"

Her voice was soft, almost melodious, but something about her tone made it seem to him as if controlled, perhaps even rehearsed, he studied her a moment, then widened his stance and folded his arms across his chest before speaking in his deep gruff tone of voice,

"Missed indeed", he paused a moment, and looked to his beloved Queen with a quick wink of an eye before looking back to the Queen of Sevaiel, "It was just this very Morn that thoughts of a young Princess not much taller then my knee with eyes that sparkled like the bluest of diamonds with merriment, and a joyous infectious laughter that echoed throughout the halls of this Keep came to my thoughts. And now here stands before me a remarkable young Lady, whom wishes to know if shes been missed".

Then to everyones astonishment and surprise, he stepped forward, opened his arms and embraced her as if she were his own child, "Aye the lil Princess has and will be missed, but I'm honoured to be gaining a Daughter in law in her place". He released her, but kept hold of her hand, he turned to look for Lord Robert and spotted hom next to Cilla and called out to him, "Lord Robert, if you please, see that the Queens baggage is sent to her quarters, and the other guests to their quarters as well so that they might freshen up if they should wish to before dinner". He turned back to Emillia and announced,"The Queen and I will have words in private", he turned to look at those who had travelled with her, " Welcome to Thirmos, I will take but a brief moment of your Queens time, please go inside and enjoy the hospitality of my Castle, if you have need of anything, hasitate not in asking".

Alaric escorted her to the seclusion of his Wifes private garden, then closed the gate so only he and her could walk among the various plants and blooms of radiant colors, after a brief moment he spoke, his tone now soft and caring as they walked the path around the garden,

" My apologies for not sending my condolences for the loss of your Father, I was away and did not recieve word in time to make arrangments to travel to his burial...your Father and I may of had our disagreements and moments of anger, but he was an honorable and just man and will be missed", he puased a moment before continuing,"Emillia, under the circumstances, with the passing of your Father, and the sudden burden of becoming a Ruler, I will not hold you to the marriage arrangement, should you wish not to follow through, but I well say once more, it would be an honor to have you in the Family". He paused then turned to face her, studied her face and awaited her answer.

Lachlan climbed out of the carriage that he and the Lord had been stuffed into for the last two days and stretched. He hated carriages as he often felt rather cramped in them and was never truly able to find a comfortable position inside of one. He would have preferred to ride that would have been a better way to spend the last two days. Not to mention, he would have been capable of seeing more, ensuring that everything was truly alright over just assuming so because it sounded to be that way. It was in past now though, the god awful ride soon to be a distant memory, replaced by the ever changing future... A future that held the marrying off of his half-sister to a Prince who did not maintain a very good reputation. Needless to say, Lachlan was worried... Whether or not this was what Sevaviel needed. Of course, he didn't have much of a say in who his sisters did or did not marry. He hardly had a say in anything anymore, not with his father dead.

He turned his attention to Emilia and Elissa as they climbed down from within their own carriage. He rested a hand on his sword's hilt as he walked over to the two of them. He said no a word to either and took to merely following them. If something were to go array, as things sometimes did with large gatherings of people, he wanted to be as close to the both of them as he could. After Emilia's greeting with her ladies in waiting, as excited as ever of their presence, he watched as she turned to address the King. As she curtsied, Lachlan gave the man a small nod, showing respect without risking the ability to properly take everything in around them.

He hardly listened to the King as he addressed his sister, taking to surveying their surrounding. As his eyes glanced over the Royals, he noticed the Prince was looking at him. He let his eyes slide quickly passed the man, not really wanting to make much eye contact. One could never tell how people of the Court would react to a Bastard in their presence. He often chose not to provoke... unless the person was really asking for it.

The gathering was quickly called to a close as the King decided to whisk Emilia away. Lachlan's hand tightened around his sword hilt. Although he was certain that Emilia was safe with the King, he didn't like the idea that moments into their arrival, she was already being whisked away. He took a deep breath and loosened his hand before he looked to his sister and the Ladies, "Go on, have fun."

---

Juliet held her skirts in one hand and took the hand that was offered to her as she climbed down from the carriage. Unlike Emilia, Juliet had never been to the Thirmos castle. She looked up in complete awe before turn to look at it all, her skirt fanning around her. She only stopped when she noticed the Queen walking towards them. She turned to her and wrapped her arms tightly around Emilia and grinned, "I'm so happy that you requested it," She squeezed one of the Queen's hands.

She followed the Queen forward, standing just behind her and her sister. As the girls curtsied, she mimicked but deepened her own as she was of lesser title than the both of them. Straightening, she looked up at the Royal family as she held her hands tightly in front of herself. It was amazing... When she was a child, she dreamed of just knowing Royalty. Now, not only was the Queen of her country not only her best friend but she was living in the home of an entirely different royal family. She glanced over at Lachlan, other than Melanie, he was the only other one of them who was some what out of their depth. Yes, he was the son of a King but he was not a Royal... She wondered if it ever pained him that his mother was a mistress rather than a wife... Surely, his life would be far better. He would be King not a penniless Knight.

When the King and Emilia left them, she walked over to him and placed her hand upon his, "Sir Reyes... Are you alright?"

Lachlan blinked a few times, bringing himself away from his scanning and thoughts to the girl whom was touching his gloved hand, "Yes... Quite... And please, it is Lachlan."

"Alright... Lachlan," Juliet said softly before looking around at the castle once more, "This place... is truly lovely."

---

---

Emilia looked at Thirmos Princess, Priscilla and smiled warmly when she muttered the word greetings. It was cute that she spoke towards them as Emilia then eyed her sister, Elissa then back towards the King as he stepped forth and started speaking. Emilia couldn't help but smile at the King's words of reminisce and parted her lips to respond but she was brought into his embrace as she hugged him back then he broke it but held onto her hand. Hearing his demands towards Lord Robert, whom she eyed with a smile and a nod then listened further to the King's instructions as she even eyed Rowan, blushing a little bit.

When she was whisked away by the King into the gardens of their Kingdom, they scenery was awe inspiring. She enjoyed flowers but this had to be done by his wife, of course and it was clear that she kept her garden well kept with an extra pair of hands. The King's mood changed and it certainly showed as she walked past him, wanting to speak but again, he spoke before her again. Hearing him offer his condolences for her father's death, she lowered her head a bit then turned to face him.

When the King was finished with his words, she parted her mouth to speak to him. "It's quite alright. As your wife, the Queen, sent an array of these pretty flowers to be laid to rest with him. My father has told me countless of stories about you and him. The good, the bad and even the ugly." Emilia responded then snapped her attention towards him so that he could hear her clearly. "Now, regarding the marriage, I've had my doubts but I wouldn't have traveled this far if I wasn't going to marry Rowan." She said the cleared her throat, a bit. "I don't mean to sound rude or disrespect, your majesty." Emilia sat down on a bench nearby and looked up at the King now.

"I wish to be apart of the family and unite the Kingdoms of Sevaviel and Thirmos then have Rowan take his rightful place upon the throne then hopefully have him and his armies conquer Cylla." She eyed him now with a slight smirk. "That is what you want for you son, right?" She then stood up and awaited the King's response as she reached out to touch a few of the blossoming flowers nearby.

Stupid old man, has no respect for the string holding the castle together. Grated he is a king and I just a mere lord but he has no idea how hard I work so he can have cheese on his plate. Does he think I don't know how to do my job? I mean I was around for the children when they were growing up while he was out at war raping poor children. Anyhow, side tracked. How do we deal with savage kingdoms that may not understand very basic ideas, you shout! Thats how you save villages from themselves, shout enough and they will hear you and do as you wish.

Standing at the top of the stairs looking at the rest of the party of savages he put in his worst fake smile and looked down on them "Hello Saviviel. I am Lord Davidson, I will be you friend as we wait for this occasion. A few rules, the king may say differently but the king wont have to deal with you. One, don't talk to the staff without permission, they work hard to do there jobs and dont need you telling them other wise. Two, keep your chambers clean, failure to do so will result in lack of room cleaning. As a blanket rule do as I say, your blood means nothing." I think im done, now time to get them inside. With a click of his fingers the servants standing idly ran into a straight line in-front of him and stood at attention; "These... People cant move there bags on their own and so you are to move them to the correct rooms. First room is for Ranold, you will be staying in the spare room given you have probably been dragged here. Secondly is the bastard, whoever you are you shall be staying in the guards quarters, its just beside the stables. Solena you will have to stay in a hand maiden room, its near to your queens room so should be fine for you. and finally the princess, I made an error with yours so you will be staying in the library room. Any questions, no? Good!" and with that the servants seized the bags. Robert was still standing watching over the savages

It was early morning before they needed to depart for Thirmos. Aldurin had woken hours prior to the sun's arrival and stood upon the walls of the castle as he watched the burning orb rise orange above the hills. A sign of good travels, he noted in his own head. A warm wet tongue upon his hand wrested him from his own mind. Looking down he couldn't help but smile at the large grey wolf that he had brought with him form his own keep. Where he had left the rest of his ten dogs, likely giving the staff hell at the moment.

The wolf panted slightly as it sat, waiting his master's hand, which was short in coming. The soft fur was warm and soft against Aldurin's hand as he pet his companion. "Ready for this trip, Whisper old girl?" Aldurin asked with a smile. Whisper replied with a short bark and a wagging tail that thumped softly against the cold stone. "At least one of us is. Come let's go get ready," he added before making his way back through the castle, Whisper trailing silently behind.

A few hours later Aldurin was waiting outside the castle with everyone before Queen Emilia came out. He nodded slightly towards her before they all loaded into the carriages. He hated carriages, and why they insisted he ride in one was beyond him. He would much rather be riding with the men guarding him so he could better react to threats and keep an eye out on the land. Whisper was at least allowed to run along side the caravan instead of being stuffed in the carriage with Sir Lachlan and himself. It was a long a miserable trip for the both of them he noted by the look on Lachlan's face, and Aldurin envied Whisper her freedom.

Once they arrived in Thirmos Lord Aldurin almost burst from the carriage as soon as the doors opened. "About damned time," he exclaimed as he stretched his cramped and stiff body. His chainmail clinking as he did so, adjusting his sword belt, and his cape to fit a bit more comfortably before joining the rest to meet all the important people of Thirmos. Whisper sliding up to his side quiet as a the wind. Aldurin patted her head to reassure her these people meant no harm, so far.

Aldurin barely listened to all the greetings as he made no attempt to hide the fact that he was observing the castle before him. Looking for weaknesses, strengths, and his tactical mind already working on how to bring it down should he need to. Some of the windows were boarded up, he noted, as well as how there didn't seem to be many men on the battlements. He didn't take any solace in that, as it was common for a main force to hide themselves unless needed.

It wasn't until the King proclaimed he was going to steal the Queen for a moment did Lord Aldurin return his attention to those around him. Though he had always been aware of where everyone was, in case anything were to happen. He was rarely ever fully relaxed, especially in potentially hostile lands. "Apologies for butting in, but be on your toes Lachlan. I would hate to become a lamb at a wolf's table," Aldurin said in a quiet tone to the man before they all swept into the castle. Though not before motioning to Whisper stay where she was for now.

Inside the castle was much the same to him as outside as he surveyed the area. He let no cracks escape his notice. Especially the pompous man who thought to stand above them. Aldurin eyed the man who spoke to them as if they were nothing more than vermin, his mouth twisting into a snarl. He already greatly disliked the man, he was too arrogant of his believed power, but Aldurin knew the blade upon his hip would cut him to true size without issue should need arise. Though he gave the man credit for not cutting his words, it was his only redeeming quality in Aldurin's eyes.

He marched up to the man as he finished speaking and glared at him with his piercing eyes. "Listen here boy," the Lord started, his words coming out as a low menacing growl. "We came here with peaceful intentions and if you wish to keep it that way I would bite your damned tongue and do your job in silence lest you lose it entirely. I will not take kindly to a simple Chamberlain insulting the blood of Sevaviel. Continue speaking to us in such a way and we shall see how much meaning your blood holds upon the ground." Aldurin gripped the pommel of his blade tightly in his gloved hand to add meaning to his promise. Letting his glare stick onto the man a while after before turning back to his companions.

Aldurin whistled loudly and Whisper came running into the castle. Tail wagging and tongue hanging out happily. Shortly followed by the servants, Aldurin smirked slightly at the one attempting to carry his heavy bag. He grabbed the bag from the poor wretch. "Show me the way, I will carry my own weight," he said in a low growl before following to his assigned room. It was going to be a very long, and very unpleasant visit for the Wolf of Sevaviel.

---

Cilla stood, her arms crossed over her chest as the greetings went on. Just then, Davidson arrived by her side, panting and gasping for breath. Cilla looked down at the man, he was never usually late for anything even by a second or two. To see him panting like this just so he could get there at least partially on time was rather humorous to say the least. Cilla stifled a laugh under her breath, raising her hand to her mouth so that, Davidson couldn't see her laugh.
"Good... Evening. Ceilia, what did I miss my lady?" Spoke Davidson.

Cilla's eyebrow twitched as he spoke. Her lips pursed as she recrossed her arms and looked down to him.
"You know my name is, Cilla right? Two L's and no E?" She let her anger fade, directing her attention to the queen regent and Cilla's father. To her surprise, and presumably the queen regents surprise, her father had embraced Emilia in a hug. Cilla stifled another laugh, such a strange display of affection was uncommon from her father.

Eventually her father took the queen off to the gardens and Cilla was left standing with her brothers and the rest of the group. She opened her mouth to speak before Davidson spoke first. He barked out orders like a military general, not unexpected, but rude nevertheless. Cilla's eye's furrowed and her anger was visible. Aldurin began speaking, telling Davidson off like he were nought but a peasant. After, Aldurin had finished, Cilla began speaking as she moved closer to the group.
"Don't be a dick, Davidson. These are our guests, soon to be our family and friends. They won't follow your rules and in fact" She turned to Robert.
"You'll follow theirs. As guests from a foreign land they ought to have someone to get them water at night? And a regular old servant just won't do will it, Robert?" She crossed her arms.
"And while his nickname might be that, I'm sure that 'the bastard' as you so put it would rather be called by his name. Lest I start calling you 'The pedo'" She grinned.

She turned to the group.
"I'm Cilla, by the way, Rowan's sister." She detested calling herself a princess.
"Don't mind, Robert, he's a dickhead." She turned her head to Robert and gave him a fake grin.
"Anyway, is there anywhere you'd like to see while we're all free?"

Dupe

Ah. The proceedings were drawing to a close. Splendid.

Caeling watched the crowds begin to disperse. He would need to organise the steward and almsgiver tonight. A celebration was due, and the castle could give every man in the city some of tonight's banquet at little cost. And if the folk paid a little coin for it, they would have to spend little actual crown money to improve happiness. He figured a silver piece in the town square and great roads, and two coppers in the rat's labyrinth.

He would hash over the details with Lord Davidson later; that man was always a good sounding board for philanthropy.

He needed to find the bastard. Ah, there, just leaving the assembled guests. He appeared behind the knight.

"Sir Lachlan."

Rowan had woken that morning, from a glimmer of sunlight landing on his face, through a gap in his extravagant curtains. With a rub of his eyes, he pulled back the silk covers from his bed, and stepped his bare feet onto the cold marble floor. He stepped to a side table near the door, to where was placed a silver bowl filled with fresh fruit. He took from the bowl a peach, biting into it, enjoying his fruit of choice. As he finished, he placed the peach stone onto the table and took a silk napkin, wiping the juices that dribbled down his chin and into his shortly kept beard, and placed the napkin back onto the table. He dressed himself in his finest Royal Regalia. He had to look good today, for this was the day he would meet the Queen of Sevaviel, his future bride to be. Dressed in his finest clothes he fitted his sword and holster around his waist, and stepped out of the room, heading down to the main hall to eat breakfast proper. His father and sister were just leaving the room as he entered. He poked his head into the adjacent kitchen room.

“Cook! I need something to eat, and I need it fast. Bread and cheese will suffice. Bring it out to me when you are done, along with a goblet of wine.” He ordered, turning and taking a seat at the long table. He lent back into the comfortable fabric, contemplating to himself, wondering what his bride would be like. In less than a couple of minute a platter of bread, cheese and ham was served to him on a silver plate, along with a glass of red wine in an ornate goblet. It was never too early to start drinking in Rowans eyes. He slowly ate his way through the breakfast, and finished off his wine. He then bided his time with a couple more goblets of wine, before the time came to meet the Queen Of Sevaviel.
He stood alongside his family, watching as the Queen and her entourage walked through the gigantic gate of the castle. He smiled as he saw her. Yes, she would do nicely. Although he couldn’t help but think that he would much rather be bedding her sister, Princess Elissa. He observed the others following her, the ladies in waiting, Juliet and Melanie, Lord Aldurin, and last, and, of course, least in Rowan’s eyes, Lachlan. The bastard.
He stood stoic, as his father spoke to the Queen, his eyes focused on Emilia. As his father led Emilia away to the gardens to speak in private, he spoke out.

“ Perhaps we can speak later, Emilia. Of course, this is up to you father, but might I suggest a feast in honour of the arrival of Her Majesty and her guests?”
He then watched as Robert led the rest of those who had journeyed from Sevaviel. He followed them inside, keeping his distance behind them. He stopped, as he heard Robert speaking with great disrespect towards their guests. This angered him. He then enjoyed watching Aldurin put Robert in his place. He stepped forward, feeling the need to speak his own piece.

“ Well said, Lord Aldurin. In fact,” He said, drawing his sword and grabbing Robert by the front of his shirt, pushing him against the stone wall. He placed his sword against Robert’s neck.
“ Robert, when you disrespected our esteemed guests, you disrespect the entire Kingdom of Sevaviel, which might I remind you I will soon be the King of. You also disrespect Queen Emilia, my future bride to be. You need to learn your place, and if the next words out of your mouth aren’t a sincere apology towards our guests, I will ensure that you die slowly and painfully. Do you understand me?” He said, the anger evident in his voice, and the smell of wine on his breath surely seeping into Robert’s nostrils.

Lachlan turned his head ever so slightly when Lord Ranold spoke to him. A small smirk tugged at the corner of his lips before he entirely looked at the man, "Bastard don't get to not be on their toes. Favoured or not. I will ensure that we are not caught of guard."

He returned his attention to those left standing before them and watched as a man began to give them all orders. He watched as how simple it was for the other man to call him a bastard. He had made no reaction to the name calling though. It was, after all, very common for people to call him as such. However, the thing that did get to him was the blatant disrespect him showed all of them. When the Princess stepped into correct the man, Lachlan bowed before straightening once more. As she addressed the name that the man used, he shook his head, "I care little about being called such. However, the disrespect to those whom are titled should not stand," He gestured to Juliet, "Lady Solana is a lady and should be addressed as such until she tells you otherwise," He glanced at Lord Ranold and nodded his head, "As for the Lord, he can speak for himself about how his wishes to be spoke to."

As a man walked in with his own bags, he held up his hand to stop him before removing them. He looked to the Princess and bowed once more, "My apologizes, your highness, but I believe that I should use this time that the Queen is preoccupied to unpack my things before she will need me once more."

With a final bow, he followed the man who had once been carrying his things to the guard's quarters. He was nearly to his rooms when he was stopped by someone saying his name. He handed his bag of once more to the man as he noticed that it was the Prince behind him, "Would you mind?"

The servant shook their head and quickly took his bag before rushing off to Lachlan's room. He turned to face the Prince entirely, giving him a small bow, "Prince Cealing, what brings you?"

---

Juliet was wringing her hands in front of her as the entire display happened. First from seemingly being reprimanded by the man quickly followed by Lord Ranold's outburst and then Sir Lachlan's in her defense. It seemed as though Lachlan left a moment to soon as the Crown Prince suddenly held his sword's blade to the man's throat. A small yelp escaped from her as the quick movement. She quickly covered her mouth as she watched in fear as the Prince threatened the man. The small thought of this being the man that Emilia was to marry struck another cord in Juliet... What if he was unkind to the Queen? Was it just the men that he placed at the end of his blade? She supposed she would find out because she had no intentions of leaving her Queen alone here...

She took a small step toward Lord Ranold, preferring the safety that the man with the sword presented if anything were to happen. She may be capable of defending herself but she could not protect herself against a Prince with a sword. She placed her hands against her stomach and looked to the Princess, she took a deep breath trying to seem unfazed by the goings on of the Prince to answer the Princess. However, the tremble was clear both with her hands and in her voice, "I should unpack Queen Emilia's things..."

-ignore this

Alaric folded his arms across his chest, and raised his left hand up to stroke his chin as he listened to her, though she may not of been a Ruler for long, it seemed her intentions were quite clear for not once did she mention the bearing of children or the raising of a family, perhaps she had become more like her Father then he had realised, when replied to her, his voice was soft, an almost serene tone,

"First let me begin with stating that there is far too much history between us to worry about being rude or disrespectful...we both control vast Kingdoms, the prosperity of which rests upon the decisions we make, therefore I would have us speak as openly and honest without fear of reprisal just as your Father and I once did". he paused a moment and shifted his weight before continuing,

"Second, if by taking his rightful place upon the throne, meaning the throne of Thirmos, I would have to say that, the Throne is already occupied and well be yet for some time to come, unless I'm to presume my demise has already been plotted not long after you both have said your vows...Now as for what I want for my Son...all that you have said would indeed be the logical direction of thought and at first was indeed my intention, and although it is my intention for him to one day rule Thirmos as well as Cylla, it will be neither him or "his" Army that conquers them".

He again paused pondering whether or not to reveal his true intentions in regards to Rowan as was his first thought to do so when he first brought her into the garden, but was now having second thoughts of doing so, after mulling over her own stated intentions as for the reason of the marriage. In the middle of thought the sound of a someone running towards the garden could be heard fast approaching, he turned toward the gate in time to see it flung open by one of the Castle guards who called out to him after taking a few deep gulps of air, " Sire...come quick, there is trouble in the Great hall".

"Oh bloody hell", he exclaimed with sudden resignation, "I'd of hope to at least made it past the first day". he move past the Guardsmen then turned to face him, "Stay with the Queen till more guards come then escort her to the Keep", then without waiting reply he sprinted for the Keep and reached the Great hall in time to spot a roguish looking man standing in his Chamberlains face, his anger raising as the closer he got to the pair and could hear the last few utterances of the mans words to the Chamberlain.Then to his shock and utter amazement he saw Rowan, draw his sword and place it at the Chamberlains throat.

"CEASE THIS MADDNESS, THIS VERY INSTANT", he shouted in a voice that boomed throughout the entire hall and seemed to shake the stone, he stopped next to Rowan and glared at him, his temper raising even higher, " SHEATH YOUR SWORD AND I MEAN DO SO NOW", he glared between the both of them until Rowan relented and lowered his sword, "BOTH OF YOU TO MY CHAMBERS...NOW". He then turned to the one who first accosted Robert and pointed him out the the Captain of the Guard now at his side, " Send a squad to the garden and escort the Queen back here to her quarters, then have this one brought to my Chambers as well".

Moments later Alaric spoke first with the Captain of the Guard and got a full account concerning the events that transpired prior to his barging in, then dismissed the Captain and sat in silence as the three men stood before him within his private chambers, still needing a moment to contain his anger, he leaned forward and beckoned to the wolf which hesitantly inched forward till he was able to place his hand on the magnificent creatures head to which he scratch for several minutes in silence before looking to the one the wolf belonged, his voice a controlled and angered tone,

"There is a little known fact about wolves, and that is each wolf seems to know and understand its place within the hierarchy of the pack and each wolf also seems to understand the consequence of turning upon one higher then its own status"

Alaric sat back in the chair, but his gaze still locked onto the eyes of the man, "The man beside you, whom you accosted, is a not only Chamberlain of my Court, but is also a Nobleman of Trimos, a man of Title and position and is well within his right to demand your head and I would be bound by my Oath as his Liege to grant it, for in your verbal assault of him, you as well assaulted myself...and I am the Alpha of this pack... What keeps your head upon your shoulders is the fact that you are a subject of Sevaiel, and since the Queen of Sevaiel is within these walls, I will leave it to her and Lord Davidson to determine the punishment for your insolence. But know you this, you actions have dishonored your Queen and shown disrespect to the hospitality I afforded you as host to a welcomed guest. Should such an incident happen again, I will not hesitate having you placed in irons and tossed into the dungeon".

without further word his eyes bypassed the Chamberlain's and went directing to the eyes of Rowan and ignoring the look of impertinence upon the young mans face, he continued, "I did not think there would be need of me reminding you that you are the Crown Prince and not the Crown King", he said with a voice still laced with anger.

Lord Davidson is a blood born Noble of Trimos, who's Fealty is sworn to ME making ME his Liege...not only is he invaluable as Chamberlain to this Castle but he is also an Officer of MY Royal Court, therefore making him subject to MY authority...on the day you become King, then you may take his head but until that day any problems arising from his conduct is for ME to deal with....five barrels of the best wine will be subtracted from your accounts and given to Lord Davidson".

Again without further word, he cast his eyes to Robert, who's apparent look of exasperation only angered him more, "And you Lord Davidson are not without blame, though I have said your services are invaluable, I find myself once again insisting that you take into consideration that there are none outside of these Castle walls that are accustomed to your brashness of tone nor your abrasive demeanour and I strongly suggest you find some way to curb your disdain or remove yourself from the post of Chamberlain for you have now forced my hand and left me with no other recourse...and I expect you to issue an apology to the Queen of Sevaiels entourage for your behavior post haste.

Alaric paused, casting his eyes now to each man before him, judging they're thoughts by the looks upon their faces, after a few moments of tense silence he spoke once more with finality in his still angered tone, "Now begone from my Chambers, the three of you". Alaric then rose from his seat and walked out onto the balcony and stared out over the western landscape of the Kingdom.

I was wondering if it is possible, may I fill the spot for the Queen of Thirmos?

"I trust you have heard something of my brother. He fails to respect anyone but himself. He has no problem with bedding as many girls as he pleases. In this, he fails his obligations, to his lessers and his superior."

As though that were any different from his normal behavior.

"I have heard of your loyalty to your sister. It is my hope that this marriage will be a good one, and I entrust you to keep it running well. I know you desire nothing but your sister's good. Keep an eye on my brother."

It pained Caeling to be undermining his brother, even in such a small way. And to rely on a bastard! It was hard, and unpleasant, and just wrong. It was necessary, though, for the good of the realm.

"What say you?"

Whisper's ears pricked up as she heard her master's loud whistle and she bolted through the large cavern into the strange new place. There were many new people, many new sights, sounds, and smells. She wanted to investigate, but her master needed her and she ran for him, her soft paws barely making a sound upon the cold stones as she ran. She was happy to see her master, but she felt his anger and noticed the target it sought. A strange man, who was now being held by another new man. She didn't know either of them, there were people around that she knew, but her attention was locked upon the strange man being held. Her master's anger was infectious, causing her to raise her hackles and curl back her lips, exposing her long sharp fangs. A menacing growl rose from her chest as she watched the strange man. Poised like a bolt locked in a crossbow, awaiting her master to pull the trigger. That moment however did not arrive as another large man came storming up to them. The man shouted, it hurt her ears and caused her to flinch back slightly.

Then her master was following the large man, along with the strange man, and the one who had been holding him. Whisper followed closely at her master's side. He reached down and placed a calming hand upon her head as they walked. His touch made her relax and lower her hackles a bit, though she was still on edge. She could still feel her master's anger towards the strange man.

Once they all entered a new room, in the strange new cavern, they all stopped. The large man leaned towards her and motioned that he wanted her to come to him. At first Whisper refused, but a slight touch from her master made her inch towards the outstretched hand. The large man simple scratched her head with his big hands, the feeling was pleasant and she could feel the man meant now harm. She allowed herself to enjoy the scratching, her large tail wagging a little bit as her hackles relaxed the remainder of the way.

Lord Aldurin listened to the King as he spoke. He himself made no move to open his mouth, this was after all, not his land, and thus had not the authority to speak. Though that would not hold grounds if the matters were more than simple insult. Which the King had easily satisfied Aldurin's need for recompense from this "Lord" Robert. So he listened, back straight, piercing gaze locked onto the king as he spoke and his thumb absently stroking the two wolf heads that made the pommel for his sword. The talk about him dishonoring his Queen, his Kingdom made him pause his thumb over the pommel, but one a split second before he continued. He was, as of right now, a wolf without his pack, and an unnecessary attack on a bear would do nothing but end his life.

Finally the King finished speaking and dismissed them all. Aldurin tapped his side and Whisper followed him out of the room, but he stopped in the doorway and looked over his shoulder at the King "In the pack, even the Alpha male bows to the wishes of the Alpha female," he said with a slight smirk before continuing out. His black cape trailing behind him, and Whisper his silent grey shadow.

A ways away from the Kings chambers Aldurin caught up to Prince Rowan. "It's nice to know there are true men around who know the value of respect," he said as he came up to the Prince's side. "I feel I need to thank you for your support with that 'Rat Lord'. Though I do hope you're not so quick to draw steel where my Queen is concerned." Aldurin added with a small smile, that made him look like a wolf about to devour a fawn. Especially with his piercing eyes looking at the prince as they walked. The statement was part joke, but hinted with truth and question. This Prince was an unknown Omega attempting to join his pack, and he must always be wary of any potential threats, especially to the young.