ROLEPLAY HQ - courtly-affairs

To say that the initial meeting had gone poorly was an under exaggeration. There he was, a slobbering Brute who wore more skin than clothes, standing in the middle of the Grand Hall as if he were an equal. Eddard hated every second that he was here and more vehemently opposed his entire reasoning of being here. Had the King simply listened to him, they wouldn’t have had to acquiesce. They wouldn’t have to stoop and bow like some courtly jester attempting to entertain here. Here amongst the pompous flair of royal banners, the rich smell of a feast being prepared and the perfumes the nobles won, and amongst the high anxiety everyone bore behind their smiling polite faces. Eddard, a man who had seen his fair share of combat despite his younger age of twenty-five, gripped the hilt of his sword as his teeth grinded even more. Why would they tolerate him? Why not cast him out? Yet still they stared and even more did he attempt to regulate his breathing. He was to appear the calm and measured guardian, not the boiling temperamental man that he felt to be underneath. He stood guard, face plain with neutrality as his visor remained upright. His polished suit of armor adorned with a ceremonial tabard, the spic and span of extra maintenance having paid off. He simply hoped this would’ve paid off.

Excess. Grandeur. The cocky attitude of nobles who think they have walked away with their lives. Aesvald would’ve had all of them hung and left out in the wilds if he had his way. But no, his advisors urged him to take the deal, to let peace reign and let them both heal. Cowards. The gruff man tightened the bear pelt that covered his shoulder. Leather straps wrapped about him restraining the toned muscles that lied beneath as a wrapped greataxe made some slight noises as it was shifted. His beard ran unkempt, just as wild as his gaze as he took in all of the fair and practiced faces. He smelt of the outside. Fresh grass and pine. An unfortunate smell but they had none of his own local wonders here so far down south. A rough hand scratched at the base of his beard before it swept out into a grand gesture outwards. “Here you summon me. But all yoy have done is show your ass and pretend we are friends. I am here to claim what is promised to me! Show her!” The uncomfortable silence only served to raise the already palpable tension. No-one moved, no-one spoke as they shifted uncomfortably. Aesvald only grunted as he looked around. He would wait here until she appeared. And from there he would decide what to do. @Nakachu

Meredith’s entire morning was spend getting ready for the visiting King. From the moment she had awoken to the moment her footsteps sounded along that hallway she had been worked on and straightened. She had been dressed in one of the most elaborate dresses, one made especially for this occasion, her possible betrothal. The dress was a dark blue with elaborate lace designs. It was also embedded with Sapphire, as was fitting. She was after all nicknames the Sapphire of the South. Her hair was done up in a beautiful brain that had then been laid at the back of her head in a bun and decorated with gems as well. Small whisps of hair dancing around her cheeks. Red powder had been applied to her cheeks and her lips had been stained red as well. She was the embodiment of perfection that afternoon, anyone in their right mind would believe she could be the most beautiful woman in the world. Yet behind that perfection hid a lot of storming emotions that were making the girls stomach turn. She had always known this day would come. The day that her body would be promised to another for the act of peace instead of love. She had not been the naive princess who believed herself to be above that. Yet now that the day had come, the 19 year old princess was having a hard time coming to terms with it. Not alone would she be promised to another without her say, she would also be promised to a man who’s name had been spoken in the same sentence with words like brute, barbarian and ruthless. She could not even imagine what kind of person would stand before her when she walked through those doors and nothing could have prepared her either. So when those door opened of that hallway, right after Aesvald had demanded her to be presented, her eyes would show a slight amount of fear as they found hers. “I present to you Princess Meredith Mayweather, Daughter of King Mayweather, Sapphire of the South and Daughter of the Realm.” She was announced and if her body had not instinctively known

01:45

to move she was sure she would have remained nailed to the ground. Yet she did walk forward with her chin held high and her eyes seemed to harden a small bit with determination. “Your Grace.” She greeted him she bowed down low before him and came back up. Not meeting his gaze until he invited her to, as she had been taught. @ChaosKillerX7

01:45

To say that her beauty was captivating was so simple you may have as well said the sky was blue. It was so indescribable that the courtiers themselves over the years had failed to come up with anything close to a real compliment. It was here that Eddard had puffed out his chest and held his breath. His heart hitched a beat as his eyes landed upon the woman, he had seen so many times in court. He was never a direct man for these matters and when their eyes would ever lock, he felt that small swelling of a feeling expand and rise before being cut down to size once the reality crept back in. He cleared his throat as he moved to descend the stairs, attempting to play some kind of mediator in these times. To at least server as a reminder to the princess that she still had allies despite this done deal of sorts. He offered a smile towards her as he approached before turning, gesturing to her for Aesvald. “Here, Chieftan. As requested, please be aware that until the marriage is sealed and finalized that we will take action against any harm that befalls her.”

Finally. The Sapphire of the South. The long-awaited rumors that plagued his ears and bid him visit in the first place. He stroked his beard, Aesvald giving quite the appraising look towards the woman ash e stepped forward, circling around as one would do to a piece of meat on the market. There was an amused laugh, more so when the pompous Knight had sought to assert his authority in the court room itself. “Hah! As if I would do anything to harm such a precious jewel.” Aesvald steps forward suddenly, closing the distance as he took in a deep whiff. His musk lingered in the area as he stepped away, Eddard’s hand drawn to the hilt at the sudden action before relaxing. That musk was as wild as he was and represented everything she was not. Untamed, unopposed, as wild and unrefined as nature herself. “Tell me, Princess. Do you like the snow?” @Nakachu

The reminder of the knight did make her sigh of relief. Yet at the same time his words worried her. Until the marriage. Meaning that after the deal was done even they could not protect her against her future husband. The man was tall, towering over her as his sharp eyes took in her features. She kept her chin high, her shoulders back, but somewhere inside her she wanted to run and cower. She had hoped he would be kind and gentle and she still had those hopes now as he circled her and took her in. She tried to relax herself. “Hah! As if I would do anything to harm such a precious jewel.” At least that was somewhat comforting. He did not have plans to hurt her. Perhaps she was misjudging him? The step forward had a breath hitch in her throat as her eyes came up to meet his. Her own were blue with the slightest hint of blue, gentle and a reminder of the ocean. His were wild, dark, serious, perhaps even a hint of amusement hidden among them. His scent was strong and invaded her nose as he was so close to her. She tried to not let it bother her. “We do not get snow often here in the South, Your Grace.” She answered him. “Though I remember a heavy snow fall when I was a young girl. I remember it being beautiful, liking the way it glistened in the sun.” @ChaosKillerX7

A storm raged when she met his gaze, and it was untamed. Wild and destructive, much like the future that perhaps awaited them were it not for this attempt at an olive branch through the political maneuvering that often came with courts and royalty. Yet, when two cultures had such different ideas and norms, what was the true outcome of such a thing? Would a hostage be kept? Would the pact be honored? Complications could arise or prosperity flourished, it was so hard to say. Yet, for Aesvald, that was nothing more than simple bickering. Games that he hated and despised. He simply only wished to do what he wanted just as his fathers had taught and lived. Just how he wanted his people to be. Yet, his advisors time and again urged caution and steered him. Time after time he held onto his throne, so he yielded to their advice and stayed the course. He stepped forward again, keeping close as he attempted to take her face in his hands and appraise her once. If rejected, he would nonetheless violate that private space and kept there to unnerve her, sniffing all the while. “It snows heavy where I come from. As thick as the grass that grows here. Nothing but white for miles. It is a harsh land, where life is carved out and fought for. Where monsters roam and beasts are plentiful for the hunters to sharpen their teeth on. Do you think yourself worthy a wife? Able to keep up? Or will you simply be crushed and tossed aside like dead wood?”

Eddard could not do much more than he was already doing. Keeping guard and keeping watch. The brute was always kept under control by his mere presence, but the simple appearance of Meredith had seemingly weakened the chain that could feasibly be used. He stepped forward when Aesvald did, another firm reminder that he was both present and that the beacon of her own civilization rested nearby. Were it in his control, he would do everything to ensure she would remain that way. “Your decision, sir?” The words roiled in Aesvald as he looked towards Eddard, a near snarl on his face. “One does not judge a wife by a mere minute’s appearance. I shall stay for a few days. Properly taste my neighbor’s… welcoming. And judge her if she is to help lead my people.” Eddard only looked to Meredith then, wondering if she had words before the King surely would pipe up from his own throne. @Nakachu

She couldn’t help but be taken aback by his words. The hand on her face, raising her chin to force her to look at her as he spoke. It had her lips parting slightly as she let her body take as deep a breath as the corset she wore would allow her to. “I believe I could serve you well, your Grace.” She spoke to him, going by the manners that she had learned all her lives. This is why she had been born, to please the man who could become her husband. All she had to do as be good for him, to be pleasing for him. Wether that was by body or by mind did not matter. She was owned by her Kingdom and she would serve it in any way that she would be able to. To bring peace for the first time in years. It would be worth it. The only comfort she had in that moment was her knights attention to her. She could almost feel his presence close beside her. Knowing that if he were to raise his hands on her, he would step in. A small layer of protection that she could enjoy, at least for now. She was grateful for him, he had proven his loyalty to her before and she knew that he would not bent out of fear for the brute King before her. The next words were not even spoken to her, but they were heard. Knowing that she had not yet pleased him enough to have him make his choice made her heart still. This had to work. “I believe I can freely speak for my Father to say you are welcome for as long as you wish, your Grace.” She spoke to him, her voice soft and melodic. “Our guest quarters are already prepared for you and your men. Please take your time to settle and rest. It would be an honor to have you join my parents and me for dinner.” She gave him a silent invitation. One that could easily be denied or accepted at the King’s discretion. @ChaosKillerX7

The King on his throne had barely moved. Was this his simple test of the woman to make her own decisions, placing the trust and survival of their nation into her hands? Pfah. It reeked of political games. But Aesvald seemed a tad bit impressed at the fact it was her that took charge. She directed it and with her words came the understanding from those in the room that they would obey. Even the Knight that stood like a statue besides, ever gazing, seemed to stiffen less at her command. “Excellent!” The boisterous voice he carried echoed within the hall, and he turned about, repeating it over and over again as spittle flew into the air. His hot breath offended the courtly sensibilities but still the smiles prevailed. When the dinner invitation came and the King dipped his head down, Aesvald pounded his fist against his chest. “A mighty feast and fine silk beds! And there hadn’t even been a pillaging, how grand!” Another rancorous laugh as he leaned forward to unnerve the next nobleman he could. Soon he turned before giving a sweeping bow. “Let me address my men and oversee their transfer. I shall see you tonight, your Grace.” It was said with such emphasis that the mocking tone behind it was sure to be felt across the court.

Eddard watched as the brute soon left the court with many of the noblemen, women, and court guards dispersing to go back to their posts. Just because one ruler left didn’t mean the work was over. In fact it had shifted into a far more dangerous game: appeasement. Now the one-time interaction would have to extend over several days and the façade they all maintained would have to be perfect and uncompromising. Eddard stood there for some time, looking at everyone who deigned to leave before approaching Meredith once more. He offered a singular bow towards her before clearing his throat. “Your Highness.” He started off quietly before offering a hand out. “… Ser Stone, at your service. If… we might have a word in private? About the visitor.” His own face held that pleading look, unfitting of a man whose recently clean face seemed so in contrast to the little scars and temporary blemishes from battles past. Where hardened steel-colored eyes attempted to soften the tone at which is words escaped in. “It would be paramount for everyone to be on the right page.” @Nakachu

The display of her future King was anything but pleasing to her. The words he spoke, the way he seemed to wish to shock the people at the court, the way the words pillage left his mouth so easily. She could feel the knot in her stomach tighten. Was this really the man that she was supposed to marry? That she was supposed to share her life with? Even if she had never believe herself to marry out of love, it had still been something that she had looked forward to. But now that she had met the man that was supposed to become her husband she was no longer sure. The brute of the North.. how did it come to this. Her thoughts were shaken when her knight came up to her and bowed before her. She returned his gesture with a soft nod of her head and offered him a smile. “My knight.” She answered him, allowing him to speak. She had seen him around her court a lot, as well as being part of her personal escorts whenever it was appropriate. Her face softened a small bit as he voiced his request. She looked around her, but most of the people there had already started to mind their own business again. “You may.” She the said as she would turn to walk, expecting him to follow. She would lead them out the grand doors and into the gardens. She would stay in view of the castle, since it would be inappropriate for the princess to wander off to far with the knight. “Speak your mind, Sir Stone.” She said to him with a gentle smile. @ChaosKillerX7

The gardens had always been well-taken care of and even now in this light it seemed that their natural beauty was only outshone by Meredith herself. Eddard offered to turn towards her so that her own facial expression may be hidden from prying eyes while his could plainly be read. Anger. Anxiety. The very essence of doubt had all plastered away and mixed into some odd and confusing soup that threatened to spill over from its fortified cauldron. “Your Highness.” He started before he huffed. He had wanted to call her so much more, where a heart skipped and a thought wandered, he had to reign himself in. TO resign himself to the true realities of the word. But not this time, this time he would fight and challenge like he should’ve done so very long ago. “Your Highness, if I may… he is a brute. A barbarian. There are ways we can survive this—we can fight. You do not have to entertain him, especially with how he treats you—this kingdom!” Even tempered breaths were soon implemented, and he lowered the hand that had been gesturing while he spoke. “… There are people who love you—care for you. People we can find that you will fall in love with that would fit better alliances. I…” A hitch. “I… adore you, my Lady. The King loves you. We will stand by whatever decision you make, but I beg of you to make the correct one in this instance!” @Nakachu

Her smile soon faltered as the knight spoke before her. A small hint of concern and sadness in her eyes. He was correct. Even she was afraid of what her life would look like if she were to marry the Brute that had come to claim her. Yet did she really had a choice like the knight claimed she had? Perhaps the King would accept it if she would say no, but would her people? Would they forgive her for being so selfish to not take the one opportunity that could safe them all? The North was strong.. they had been causing them loss after loss in the fights against territory. If she was to reject their King.. A gentle hand would come forward, placed gently against the cheek of the knight who confided in her. “I appreciate your concern for me Sir Stone, it moves me greatly. But I wish for you to understand that I would give anything to serve my kingdom. That is my job, the reason that I was born into this world.” She spoke to him as she held his eyes with her. “I am sure that King Aesvald will treat me with as much respect as he would his own.” She spoke, yet the smallest hint of a hitch in her breath gave away that even she was unsure about that part. Her hand would fall away from him again and she took a deep breath to compose herself again. “He has yet to accept me. He has not spoken his wishes to marry me yet. Let us see about dinner. Perhaps he surprises us.” @ChaosKillerX7

Loss after loss. Setback after setback. It came like a drumbeat, a repetitious thing that had driven them on the backfoot and to the brink of desperation so many times before. Now, here they stood, at destiny’s end to confront he decision they would have to make for themselves and their people. So badly did he wish to scream and shout to the heavens that there was another way. That they could fight back and that they would triumph. That armies would march behind them, and their allies would move mountain, heaven, and hell to answer their calls. But he knew different. He knew the grim reality of the truth and Eddard could do nothing but soften at her touch against his cheek. “Your Highness…” The breath is lost in his throat. The words failing to muster from whatever wellspring his soul had contained, the way she had looked upon him made his heart beat. The way he looked upon her could plainly tell that his guard had been thoroughly shattered by a simple disarming gesture. The words beat upon him like the ram upon the gate. A steely nerve had crept back into his spine and once more he had to face the music. When she composed herself, he did the same, deep breaths taken as his eyes lingered on the doorway behind her. Right. They had the dinner. “… As you wish, your highness. But… please. Consider any alternative. For your kingdom. For your father. For me.” @Nakachu

She couldn’t help the fall of her eyebrows as the knight seemed so torn about it. He was swore to protect the royal family and she could only imagine that he felt like he was failing them, failing her. Her hand stayed on his cheek, but the other now joined it on the other side, cupping his face gently. His stubble prickling against her skin. “I have considered the alternative, Sir Stone. I will not let my people suffer under tyrrany for something that I could end. And I would believe that my Father thinks about this the same way. I am yet but a small.. sacrifice for keep our Kingdom healthy and strong.” As she spoke she couldn’t help the small pause in her voice as she called herself a sacrifice. No matter how strong she pretended to be, how strong she displayed herself before everyone in the court.. she was only a 19 year old girl, thrown into an adult world that she was only starting to come to understand. A life that had not even bloomed, yet it was being given away to another. And in that moment, perhaps that bit of fear was starting to shine through the mask she otherwise was able to keep up. “I thank you for speaking your mind to me. I will always appreciate your input, my knight.” She thanked him. @ChaosKillerX7

There was more to it than duty, it always happened. When she talked about his service and his duty there was a heartbeat that skipped irregularly. He wanted to tell her more, about how his heart soared when he saw her and how it crushed when they spoke of her as nothing more than a tool. But it would be more than scandalous—ruinous even were he to even mention even a scrap of it. Of course, his eyes would betray it, but his lips said nothing but the same oaths and utterances. “… Of course, your Highness. I… care a lot about you. Forever will I ensure your safety and your prosperity. I wish nothing but the best for you. For our people.” There was a small smile he would muster, something brave for her. Eventually he gestured towards the other door they had emerged from. “Should we, then?” @Nakachu

She would once more offer him a smile of her own. One that was radiant and trainer even if her own emotions ere showing behind her eyes. She wondered what she had done to deserve the affection of the knight. To ask for an audience with her in private, even for a knight that should not be taken lightly. And she truly did appreciate his words. As he gestured towards the door she nodded her head. “We shall.” She spoke and would start to walk back towards the castle. Her strides still long and her posture perfect like she had been taught. Back inside the bustling had already starting. Servants were running around to clear up everything for the dinner, to get supplies to the kitchen as well as to make final preparations to the guest room for the King and his man. The princess herself tried to ignore it best she could and would begin to climb the staircase to her own wing. The wing was guarded 24/7 and only those in the most closest circles of the royals was permitted to enter, unless they were invited in by the princess. Being part of the royal guard, Eddard Stone would be one of those that was permitted. Her personal wing held the quarters of her handmaids, a large bathroom for her to prepare herself, a room filled with many of her iconic jewelry and dresses and at the end of the wing would be her bedroom and study. The closer she got to her own privacy the more she felt her emotions stir inside of her chest. She had done a good job so far of hiding it and keeping it contained, but now she could feel her breathing becoming heavier with the soft panic that was brewing inside of her. They stopped at her door, her hand resting against the dark oak wood that was sculpted with the most beautiful and intrigate patterns. “This is where we part Sir Stone.” She spoke to him, trying to force a smile when all she felt like was crying. But not yet.. “I would wish to rest before the dinner with the King. It is important that I am at my best tonight.” @ChaosKillerX7

It was an oncoming maelstrom of both anxiety and hesitation that spread throughout the both of them. Tensions were high and it seemed that despite any sort of actual want, no amount of wishes and pure hope would change the course of the world that seemed hellbent on barreling down a path they didn’t want to explore. Still, when they ascended towards the royal quarter Eddard simply gave her the best encouraging mile that he could give her. A singular hand moved to grasp her arm, the best he could do in this small, private space without offending the nobility. It was his only sign of support as he soon spoke. “Temporarily. Know that I am at your beck and call, your Highness. I will do all to ensure that you remain safe during these times.” The smile given was fleeting but it was offered, nonetheless.

Downstairs was a different story. Aesvald had finally rounded up his own shield brothers and the small troupe that consisted of the roving band that had escorted him here. Upon closer look at their ragged and heavily armed look, one could easily mistake them as raiders that had forced their way into the palace. But, unfortunately for the others, that was the farthest thing from the truth. Aesvald sniffed around as he gestured towards the nearest servant and grunted. “Where are the lodgings, hrm? My men and I are expecting the finest silk sheets you know.” The grin that came with the resounding laughter made it hard to pin down whether or not that was truly satire or if it were something else entirely. @Nakachu

“Thank you Sir Stone. I appreciate it like always.” She spoke to him and offered him a nod of her head as a thanks. She then parted from him, keeping her stature true. But the moment the door of her own room closed behind her and she was finally away from any prying eyes she could not help the tears that instantly welled in her eyes. She went to her bed and just collapsed into it, sobbing into a pillow. Was this truly the life that she had to come to? Was this truly how this was going to be? To be given away to a brute from the north as some kind of price for the peace? Yet, even if that was the truth, everything she had said today rang true as well. For her people.. she would be the sacrifice. She gave herself a moment to let it all out and then found herself drift off for a small bit. When she woke agains he called her trusted handmaiden in, Ava. She came in with fresh towels for the princess and bowed her head down. “My Lady.” She greeted her, but the moment they met eyes she couldn’t help the worry in her face. “My Lady you have been crying.. Are you alright?” She asked. “Yes Ava. I am just fine.” She lied but could tell from Ava’s face that she was not buying it. The handmaid knew her better the anyone. “Should I prepare your hair for tonights dinner?” Ava offered then, knowing that Meredith took comfort in having her hair done. The Princess nodded. She sat down in her chair and Ava soon started to unpin the hairstyle that had been done that morning and took all the pins out to simply brush through her locks. Ava told her about the behavior of the King in the quarters below and how he had been unpleasant to the other servants. It seemed that Ava didn’t hold much love for the King either or the thought that Meredith was to wed him. But she did not speak of the possibility of Meredith not marrying, knowing the Princess had her own duties she believed in. A few hours later Meredith was once more prepared to meet the king at their dinner. This time she was dr

09:50

essed in a dress that was a bit more simple. It was a nude pink that fit her skin color beautifully. Perhaps it had been chosen by her counselors to give the King an illusion of what the Princess might look like in the nude. Or perhaps it was simply because they wanted to show her beauty in something other then blue. Whatever was the case, she was an appearance that night. With the dress on her body, her hair braided and beautifully pinned to the back of her head, the soft stains of blush and lips on her face and the many diamonds that decorated her skin. It was something that would have courted any man in wanting the Princess. But the King she was trying to please was not just any man.. Right before she was about to leave for the banquet hall she had one of her maiden call upon Sir Stone to escort her down. Meeting him at the same place where he had left her just earlier that day. @ChaosKillerX7

09:51

The ceremonial armor was something that he hated more than anything. Thank the Gods above that in this instance he was able to dress in something much simpler: a breastplate, a tabard covering it. The simple uniform of a guard to the royal family rather than the stuffy thing he had dressed to show off the regality of the Kingdom. His breath hitched at the sight of her, and he cleared his throat, offering a simple bow of his head as his eyes searched the Princess. “My Lady.” He began, still a bit stunned before he offered his arm out towards her. “You look stunning, as always. I have no doubts you will impress many people tonight.” The crack of a smile was offered before he would move to slowly walk the steps down should she take his arm. Then came the brooding thoughts and as the agonizing climb down was accompanied by the small flickering of smaller candles and more, Eddard spoke up. “Your father, the King, has informed me that we are to ensure that the alliance goes off tonight.” He’d clear his throat. “At any cost and without a hitch.” He’d give a small nod of his head. “With that, if you need anything of my assistance tonight—you shall have it.”

They had been shown rooms fit for nobility but it was a far cry from hearth and stone. They had to shed their leather and furs for something more homely. Doubled down quilted cloth with fur cloaks. Their beards braided and their hair pinned back. They would look the part but only for as long as this ceremonial dinner was to be held. Aesvald looked towards his throng of men who all seemed equally uncomfortable in bearing this appearance. Thanes and Shieldbrothers, all lined up eagerly along the halls of the dormitories awaiting his words. “Brothers!” They all grunted and laughed, some even smiled. “Tonight is the night if we determine to take wives peacefully... or by force.” His arms flew up and they all resounded in a score of laughter. Surely, this as a fine thing for any servant to overhear. @Nakachu

She couldn’t help the soft smile that tugged at the corner of her mouth as Sir Stone complimented her. “That is the plan, Sir Stone.” She said to him as she took his arm and let him escort her down the hallway. Her steps were small and deliberate and they made no fast pace. But she was glad to enjoy this little bit of time before she would once against face the brute king. It wasn’t till he spoke of her father that her breath stilled a bit and her shoulders tensed. She quickly collected herself again, pushing those emotions down once more and taking on a more stoic nature. “I am aware of my father’s wishes.” She spoke to him. “There is much at stake.” After that she did not speak to him again, her mind needing to focus on anything else even if she appreciated the comfort he was willing to offer her. The king and his men would be asked to enter the room first, being brought before a table that was full of fancy plates and cutlery. The King of the south would be seated at one side already, his Queen next to him along with some high nobles of their kingdom. The other head of the table was for Aesvald, a place reserved next to him for Meredith. The rest of his men could take any seat that was still empty as they saw fit. It was only moment later that Meredith was brought in the room. Bringing her last was a strategic measure to ensure the Northern King got his eye full of her as she walked down to him. Once she reached him she bowed down, splaying her shirt out, the motion causing her cleavage to show before him as she bend down. “My King.” She said. “I wish to thank you for allowing me to accompany you tonight. Might we get to know each other.” She offered him. Sir stone would have his chance to be placed behind them against the wall, awaiting any orders and having a good view of the two. @ChaosKillerX7

It was as noble and royal as many of the others feasts that had come before it. Whether it had been a ceremony, a noble delegation, or something beyond – the purposes of the dinners had always remained the same: to paint a great picture for the visitor and make them leave with the best impression they could have. Tonight, though, Eddard wished it were different. Posed so stoically against the wall, his hands rested against his sides at parade rest as he simply watched. It was his job not to interfere but also be an eye to which information could flow. Here he was to be as blended in as the scenery itself. He so wished he could be an active ear, an active mouth, something to spout and cry against the injustice that was before him. But, alas, he was quiet.

She had given him a full view and the looks were not left wanting. Indeed, Aesvald seemed to have settled in the at regal attire of his, a look of intrigue and the very obvious stare that came towards her own features was not to be missed. His smile grew as his men seemed to egg each other on, only stopped when he raised his hand and gestured with the other towards the seat next to him. “I’m sure there’ll be plenty of that for later.” The tone was all that was necessary as to what he alluded but still he straightened himself up on the chair and seemed to present some class here with the way he restrained himself. He saw fit to adjust his chair just a bit closer towards her, a laugh as he leaned over once she had settled himself. Though his breath was hot, the words came out softly. “Is there a boring ceremony before we eat or is it one of those fancy courses I hear about where we start off with almost nothing to eat and end with our stomachs barely filled?” @Nakachu

She couldn’t help the soft inhale of breath as she spoke of them having time later. The sudden rummage among his man not making her feel more comfortable. She had yet to be accepted by him. Even if he did accept her, she would not truly be his until the wedding had taken place. But did this King care bout such customs? Or would he demand to have her before then? And if he did.. would her Father grant him that? She peeked towards the King of the South, seated at the other side of the table. His eyes stern towards her, ensuring that she knew what he expected of her that night. Would he really be willing to offer her modesty in return for the peace of the kingdom? She was afraid that the answer might be yes. Yet she took her place beside her possible future husband and forced a courtesy smile back upon her lips. She did notice him drawing himself closer to her, but she forced herself to not let it bother her. Her eyes going up towards his face as she started to speak, making sure he knew she was paying attention to him. “No ceremony, my King.” She assured him, though it did make her feel uncomfortable how much he seemed to hate the manners of the court. What was her life going to be like in the North? How barbaric were they really? “I am afraid however that there will be many courses to this meal, though I ensure you that there is plenty to fill you up.” She said to him in a gentle way. “It is this way to ensure that you and I have time to get to know one another my King.” She paused for a moment as she just held his eyes. “Though if you would rather insist, I would be more then happy to ask the cook to serve the main meal right away. I heard he prepared a delicacy from the North just for this occasion. An elk stew, I believe?” @ChaosKillerX7

“Hah! Elk Stew!” There was a tremendous laugh that came from Aesvald that no doubt had garnered the attention of many of the nobles that were sitting nearby. His retinue had heard the same exclaim and soon set upon laughing themselves. Whatever, it seemed, was the joke was now lost completely as Aesvald gave a large and vigorous nod towards the princess. “How rich of you Southerners.” The words were not said with malice yet it seemed the effect had been the same. Aesvald still straightened up slightly as he gestured. “Then let us begin this farce of a charade so that you may ‘know’ me.” As the first of the many course meal began, the Northern King immediately spoke. A gesture with the improper fork given towards her. “Tell me, do they keep you locked up here? Only to trot you out when it seems convenient?” @Nakachu

The bouldering laugh that came from both him and his men was unnerving for Meredith. Had she said the wrong thing? Was elk stew perhaps not a meal that they would enjoy? Her eyes went from side to side, before coming to her father as they begged for help. But the King was not interested in helping his daughter, he was interested in her succeeding to claim this match. She was almost glad when the first meal had gotten served, yet the moment she saw it she knew it would not please the man she would soon have to call her husband. It was a simple salad, decorated with walnuts and apples and small bits of cold beef. A plate that could be finished in three bites, if not one by the big Northern male. “Tell me, do they keep you locked up here? Only to trot you out when it seems convenient?” He suddenly asked her and her eyes shot up to him. “Pardon me?” She asked, sure she misunderstood the question, but soon enough it became evident that was not the case. “No.. of course not, my King.” She said with a bit of a smile. “I am free to roam the castle, just like anybody else.” She assured him. Was that the view that he had of royalty in the South? “But there is no need to concern yourself with me, my King. Tell me more about yourself, about your home. I would like to learn more.” She told him, hoping to shift the conversation to him and learn something in the process. @ChaosKillerX7

( @ChaosKillerX7 just a gentle bump ❤️ hope you are doing well)

The salad was marched out and displayed like a proper servant in uniform. Thin as it was, it seemed that the Northmen only gave it some sort of sense of apprehension before downing it almost in two bites. There was a grunt from Aesvald as he straightened up, stifling a burp unceremoniously before he eyed the plate. “They always delay this. Why do you not fill your stomachs first so the talks come after? It is like one of your Southern dances. Always so…. Extra.” Another vague wave of his hand went through the air and Aesvald suddenly was addressed. A bushy eyebrow raised itself at Meredith’s question and the look of amusement was plain nigh to observe. It was a question that seemingly caught him off-guard and for now it seemed that silence reigned for their conversation. Suddenly, the man spoke. “Free to roam like a great Elk. But she would not be wished to compare to Elk. Mayhap a great white Stag.” Another boisterous laugh before he cleared his throat. “Come, tell me what you wish to hear specifically about. The snow? The winding hills? The chimeras that hibernate and come out during the summer? Our spring raids?” @Nakachu

The moment the salad came before them she knew that he would not be pleased with what was displayed before him and he did not take long to make that displeasure audible. She herself ate slowly, only taking small bites and making it last. The longer time went on between herself and the King, the more unsure she became of how she could actually please him. Her shoulder were starting to tense up, her back losing the straight line that she had been taught to hold. She was uncomfortable and it showed in her body language. “Anything that you wish to tell me about, my King.” She said to him. “I would love to hear about your home.” She said as she offered a smile. “We do not often get snows here in the South. I look forward to seeing it’s beauty.” The way she had learned to court simply didn’t fit with the man before her, she knew this much. But at the same time she had not been taught anything else. She lived her life in the court and these types of interactions was all that she ever had with anyone. How could she improvise on the fly if she did not know how to do so. As one of the servants came by to collect the plate she stopped them. “Could the main dish be server before my King?” She asked them gentle. “It appears he is hungry after his travels.” She said. She was always kind with her staff and they would nod and soon scurry off to grab the main to be server on this side of the table. Hoping that it would please him at least a bit. @ChaosKillerX7

How uncouth and unruly this man was to make her prostrate herself before him in their own home. Eddard couldn’t stand it. Never before had he felt such contempt or aggression towards someone else, yet, here he was fantasizing and envisioning a grand duel to settle the matter once and for all. Of course, he would’ve never stepped out of line to do so, but the smug satisfaction and amusement that settled on the Northerner’s face was enough to make his fists curl. Slow and steady breaths came from him before he measured himself out. A way of a Knight was to be chivalrous and just. To preserve and protect. To be the better man. Could he really do so watching this?

Aesvald couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow before laughing again. “Such persistence, you’ve the attitude of a doting mother. That may serve you well in the hearth, but a true ruler of the North knows when to be hardened. Do you know when to be hard, Sapphire of the South?” He leaned back in his chair to examine the woman, though not so much as a prized piece of meat on the market anymore, but something different altogether. Eventually he straightened in order to answer her questions and gave a simple gesture of his hand. The small cue for the stage to be set. “Our winters are long and sometimes rough. The snows we get are not often seen, heavy, blanketing. Frigid temperatures that are only combatted with our great rituals to keep eternal fires roaring. Great blizzards fight against great fire spirits to keep the winters at bay and when spring comes, we’ve a short window to plant our next harvest and store it for the upcoming winter. The women tend to the fields while the warriors go out to plunder, acquiring gems, gold, and more to trade if the goings get tough.” There was a bit of wistfulness in his voice despite the rough descriptions and as he leaned back he seemed to look faraway as if envisioning it right then and there before them. “It is a hard land, but it is a land that works for you. For there is nothing better than seeing the first sun hit the snow amongst the dead trees and just barely seeing the first signs of life emerge from the hard and terrible weather.” @Nakachu

The longer the dinner went on the more uncomfortable Meredith was feeling with this match. Not that it mattered, she knew what her duties were after all. This match was something that was important to her parents, to her land. She needed to make this the best that she could. When he started talking about the North, she looked up to him and gave him her full attention. The food before her long forgotten. As much as he was hungry, her appetite was failing her. The more he told her about how the North worked, the more nervous she became. Could she survive in such an environment? They seemed to different from what she was used to. Would he even have have a castle to his name? Or did the Northeners not care for such things? She just hoped that she would not disappoint him. Would she survive in his lands? She decided to just hang on to the last bit that he told her, the view of the snows melting away to bring life to the lands. It sounded beautiful and she would just need to look forward to that. “I am sure I will enjoy seeing that.” She said to him with a forced smile to her face. The servers had hurried to get the main dish served once Meredith had requested them to do so. One look at her parents told her that they did not approve, but she had felt like her future husband might have become angry if they made him wait longer. The elk stew was served in a giant cauldron that was enough to serve a village, so the Northerners were sure to get their fill. “Let me serve you, My King.” She offered him with a smile as she rose from her chair and took a hold of the bowl that was on his side. She came very close to him in the process, smelling the woods and nature on his clothing. After that she moved to fill it to the brim with the ladle in the cauldron, not spilling a single drop as she had learned before placing it down before Aesvald. @ChaosKillerX7

Look at him. A wild king sat upon a pretender's throne. Occupying a fine and royal dining chair as if he were an equal. As if the savage barbarism and undisputed grief thst he had cause could be washed away with a serving of wine and the flow of stew. Yet Eddard could only look about at the placate nobles and the forced niceties they had all adopted. Better to be uncomfortable than to be dead, wasn't it? He couldn't stand it, but standing he remained. He inched ever so more to the side as he watched the Princess dip low and close. Actions that could only fuel him, that only drove him mad. It was a nightmare that never ended.

He smelt of the pines. Of fresh berries frosted upon a morning snow's touch. Where mint and thistle intermingled, but the overwhelming scent of bear and sweat seemed to overtake it in the next instant. Of fire and smoke did he reek, yet of honeyed mead and warm tidings did he seem to bring. The Barbarian King so close held ma y scars and deformities upon his muscled body, but they all laid upon fair skin that had barely been covered by their more formal wear. Yet his steely and unending gaze never left her. From when she stared back at him and when she dipped low to serve him A hand reached out then to place itself at her backside, fingers spread as a smile cracked upon his face. "Good. Serving is what a good wife would do. If you cannot survive on your own up there, I shall find ways to make you." Hot and stinging was his voice, but the words hit so direct laced with their subtle meanings.

@Nakachu

TW: Cursing, Possible NonCon, Possible Abuse

The hand that reached for her was so.. unnerving to her that she did not know how to respond for a moment. She just froze in place for a second, unsure how to respond to it. It was such a blatant thing to do, something that would never be accepted at the court.. not by anyone but the barbaric King. He just closed her eyes for a moment and took a deep breath before forcing that smile back on her face. She placed his bowl down before him. The stew was rich and creamy, the smell of herbs wafting off it to fill Aesvald’s nose. If it was anything like the stew that they served in the North, she would soon learn. Likely it was not, and merely a southern mimic of it. One that would not taste anything like what he was used to and would either surprise him, or leave him completely unwanting of it. “Good. Serving is what a good wife would do. If you cannot survive on your own up there, I shall find ways to make you.” The words fell on her like a brick falling from the sky. Did he question her ability to be alright in the North as well? And what did he mean with I shall find ways to make you? She could not help the nerves that settled so deep into her chest, making her heart rate quicken. So far she had been able to just swallow it all down, yet this time she found fear gripping at her. What was this man planning to do with her? What would he do if he found her unfitting in his home land? She looked towards her father, but still he did not seem eager to come to her aid anytime soon. She swallowed hard, trying her best to get her heart rate back under control. “And serve you I will, my King.” She just said, her voice shaking more then she would have liked, but perhaps he would not have noticed. “Now, if you would please excuse me for a moment. I find myself.. needing of the privy.” It was the only excuse that she could come up with before she bowed before him and stepped away. The walk to the doors seemed almost endless, and the closer she came the more her breath s

07:36

tarted to rush in and out of her lungs. When she finally found that door she stepped through it, still holding her composure. But the moment she was out of sight she grabbed into the walls as she fell into them. She sunk down to the ground, her dress spreading out around her. Her heart was beating a million times a minute, her breathing coming in short bursts and her world slowly seemed to start to spin. It seemed the stress had finally became to much for the princess. @ChaosKillerX7

There he had conquered, there he would never weep. She had faltered somewhere, that much he could recognize and when she moved to excuse herself there was only but one single response. A wide, devastating smile that spread across his face as he gestured. "Of course. I would not keep such a pretty flower from doing what she needs done." When she had lifted herself and finally escaped his view, his own eyes swept the dining hall. There sat the King of the South, fat and pickled, ready for the reaping. There sat the many soldiers and defiant men who would attempt to stave them off, men who would lay in a pyre or a grave-- it mattered not for him. There sat so many nobles, eager to appease, eager to live. They had no idea what truly waited for them if something were to snap. If this marriage were to fail. Of course, this was his confidence, his assured cockiness. He could not lose-- he would not. If this failed, he would ensure his embarrassment would be felt for centuries.

When she left, she did not escape his attention. In fact, Eddard had not been able to see much else beyond her that he was caught by surprise when one of his colleagues pointed out the odd positioning of some of the other northern retinue. There was a frown that settled on his face, unsure of the intention before he asked his favor. With it accepted and his vigil to be replaced, Eddard made his own quiet way out in the hallway where dim light and idle conversation died with each step. He sought her out and when he sighted her, he kept his appropriate, formal distance. A quiet voice reaches out, a guiding hand in the darkness. "My lady. Are you alright?" @Nakachu

She had not even heard the knight approach her as she was grabbing into her chest. Her corset suddenly suffocating her as her breathing was fast and panicked. She did not trust that man that was in that room, she did not even trust his people. How was she supposed to live with them? To marry him? She was convinced that he would rip her apart.. “My lady. Are you alright?” Her eyes suddenly shot up to meet with the knight. Her eyes wide and slightly red. That is right, she could not lose it, not here. There were eyes everywhere if one of the Northeners were to see her like this.. So she took a few more breaths and then rose back to her feed, trying desperate to calm her quickened breath. “Ser Stone.. I did not see you there.” She said forcing a smile to her face. Her chest was still rising and falling with deep tugs, the act making her breast press against the top of that corset, making the soft and round shape of them ever more present. “I simply needed a breath of fresh hair.” She lied. Her eyes told him everything he would need to know. They would speak of her panic, but they would also beg him to keep his stature. Nobody could know that she feared her marriage. It was to important to her lands. She knew the intent of the Northeners. This entire arrangement existed because they had threatened their lands. He had demanded the King’s daughter in marriage to stand down. If she failed this.. if she pulled away.. It would take so many lives. Yet it was that same arrangement that scared her so. It almost sounded like her marriage was more of a punishment to her father, then a desire to have her. Not that she expected her future husband to care for her, she was not as naive to believe that. But if he truly had no desire for her at all.. why would you be careful with a toy if you did want it to begin with. “Ser Stone..” she then started and she slowly calmed herself a bit more. “I wish for you to speak your mind with me. I always believed you to be a honest man a

00:34

nd throughout these years I have valued your opinion highly.” She would start before her eyes found his again. “What is your opinion of His Grace?” @ChaosKillerX7

Of course, in darkened hallways were the most secret of secrets oft told. Feelings and thoughts were laid bare quite often and it seemed that tonight was going to be no different. Eddard, for all his vigor and knightly presence was still nothing more than a man. A man who had yearned and ached for the attention and position of one whose station was so socially above his that the mere thought of it was heresy. Yet, there she stood. The panicked breaths pushed her own figure to even more attention. The wild eyes and scattered words pressing the feeling of suffocation and fear that had been laying deep within. He felt his fists tighten; his nerves begin to boil. Who was this man to cause such grief for a woman such as her? Then again, who was he to say that he wouldn’t cause the same? Her words came easily, and he gave a single nod, offering a hand to support her should she need it. “It is quite stuffy inside.” He lied. Her question came abruptly then as he attempted to become that guiding shoulder, lost as to what even he would do. Yet when the opinion was requested, social custom immediately bit him. Should he obey what was clearly the right course or should he speak his mind? An eternity felt before his words finally escaped. “… If you wish for these words to be private and for your ears alone, your Grace…” It began slowly before he shook his head. “… He is a vulgar, despicable man. One who is not fit to grace this hall much less step on this soil. But he is formidable, ferocious, and beneath the barbaric exterior is a mind most cunning. One that you can see is always analyzing, always weighing. I fear for a brazen response as to slap him here with a rejection but dread worse what he will do should he claim his prize: you, my Grace.” @Nakachu

(fuck you discord formatting)

She took his hand, but that was all she took. Using it as an anchor to keep her grounded instead of needing the wall that was beside her. Somehow it made her feel more steady and she finally would feel her breathing starting to calm down just the slightest little bit. Once he started to speak she let her eyes stay on their joined hands. Listening carefully to the words that he was speaking to her. And the words that he spoke were the words that she had feared. She was not just a young girl who was freaking out over the loss of her freedom and the promise of her hand to another. Even the seasoned knight standing before her could see how ill fitting this union truly was. She took her moment to weight his words in her mind. She closed her eyes and forced herself to take another deep breath before she found that steel resolve that she had been able to hold before. Her eyes would go back up to meet with the man in front of her and even now she could see the kindness that they held behind that intense stare that he held with her in that moment. “But who will bear his wrath when I deny him?” She asked him truthfully. “It will be my people who pay for my shortcomings, Ser Stone. I won’t be the one to put them through that. This union has to happen no matter what. I will bear the burden so my people won’t have to.” It was a speech that was meant to encourage herself more then it was the convince the knight before her. Her eyes slowly stopped showing that panic inside of them. They stop being from the 19 year old girl before him, but now belonged to a woman grown, ready to server. “I believe I am ready to be escorted back in.” @ChaosKillerX7