ROLEPLAY HQ - fallen-orira

the morning breeze rushed through an open window, brushing against the cheek of a white haired Princess. The wind caused her to stir, her eyes fluttering open a short moment later. Hope sat up and yawned, stretching violently. She slowly shuffled out of the massive bed before changing out of her long pajama dress. Hope quickly tossed on some basic clothing, a white cloth top, a pair of leather pants, and a pair of knee high leather boots,before existing her room with a soft smile "Let's see what we have in store today!" Hope exclaimed as her boot heals echoed off the stone flooring

Ryl was within the training grounds practicing with his fellow knights. They were always trained daily, prepared to take on any necessary battle at any time. The boy grinned playfully as he battled his opponent, blades clinging sharply. To most, the blades colliding would make them flinch, yet these knights enjoyed the sound. It made adrenaline course through their veins and the feeling energized them. The opponent rushed in suddenly, maybe hoping to surprise Ryl, but he quickly retaliated, dodging to the side and pressing the blade to the opponent’s neck. He clicked his tongue as he looked at their poor state. “Rookie move. Just terrible!” Ryl teased, playfully, to which his opponent grinned and retaliated again. Their training quickly turned into a skirmish of who could do the most ridiculous moves. “Hey! Quit it, boys!” Their commander hollered as he made his way over to them. Ryl and the boy quickly stood up straight and placed their hands behind their backs—a respectful manner to higher ranks. “Ten rounds.” The commander grunted as he stalked past them, his eyes threatening like a snake’s. Ryl shrugged and began jogging around the training grounds as he began the ten rounds. His forehead beaded with sweat and he drenched his black hair, but none of it seemed to bother him. The knights were trained to ignore a lot, after all.

Hope wondered down to the battlements located on the castle grounds. She always liked watching the soldiers train, it oddly made her feel safe. She knew they'd do everything in their power to protect her and her family Hope sighed softly as she walked on the rough soil, good thing she wore her boots. She always hide a small satchel that contained a book, which was always being replaced from her reading speed. Hope fetched the book and sat at the entrance of the battlements, flipping through the pages "Its a good morning!" She said, a little louder than she meant too. Hope... hoped that her voice wouldn't carry over to the men. Her father wouldn't be happy if he knew she was here..

Ryl continued his laps around the grounds, yet noticed the princess arrive. He smiled, slightly amused at her words. He halted to a stop, as well as his friend, when he noticed the knights and commanders turn and face her, giving a quick respectful bow before returning to their work. Ryl and his fellow knight also gave the respectful bow before continuing their laps. As they passed her, he gave her a respectful nod. Ryl then began to wonder if she was allowed out here, as he’d rarely see her or the queen outside of their main quarters. He had assumed it was some sort of strict rule set up by the King. On his next way around, Ryl stopped in front of her and gave her a questioning glare, raising one eyebrow. “Princess.” He said respectfully before continuing. “Do you have permission from your father to be out here?” He asked. It wasn’t quite his business, considering none of the commanders had come up and asked the same, yet if it was her father’s wishes then so be it. @Katelyn "Ducky" Snowfall

Hope buried herself into her book, avoiding looking in the direction of the soldiers. Though the clanking of armor and clashing of swords were more distracting than usual to her. Hope quickly found herself unable to focus on her book and promptly closed it Hope yelped as the voice of a young man spoke, causing her to quickly look up in surprise. "I-...I um..." The words caught in her throat, her father's wrath filling her with unease. Not only that though, this man was the only person who had spoke to her outside of the castle, even when she snuck out into the town before Though something about the man eased the words from her "N-no..." She replied meekly, burrowing her head into her knees. Hope quickly recovered though, lifting her head with new found vigor "And you aren't going to say anything!" She added as she stood, her arms tucked to her chest

Ryl widened his eyes at the girl’s sudden vigor. He chuckled softly. “Hmm.. I guess I won’t, then.” He shook his head in amusement and quickly bowed to her. “Your highness.” Ryl smiled. He quickly continued his laps, as he only had a few more. However, he would glance over with interest at the princess and he hoped she wouldn’t be in trouble for her curiosity. Ryl continued battle training, more serious now. He had a different opponent now and he fought with new energy against them. Skillfully dodging attacks and sending his own at the opponent, who was about the same height and strength of Ryl. However, mind was always above strength when fighting—at least from his own experiences.

Hope's face flushed with embarrassment, she never lost her temper in such a way before. It was so unroyal like. Though deeply embarrassed, Hope couldn't get herself to leave and return to the castle. Instead she sat back down and watched the soldiers ran and fight, her eyes eating up the movement of the men as she copied them to memory. She was never good at any physical activates but since her magic training wasn't going all that well, she might need to know how to use a sword at some point.. Hours past as Hope sat there, mesmerized by the fluid yet rugged movements of the men. Partially the young man who had approached her. Hope's heart thumped hard against her chest as she recalled her moment of embarrassment earlier in the day, causing her face to flush often throughout the day. "Maybe.. I should ask if they'll teach me how to use a sword.. My father certainty isn't.." She muttered to herself as she brushed her white hair from her eyes. The wind got caught up slightly so her hair was flying wildly in the afternoon air. She didn't bother to adjust it to often despite it clouding her vison.

Ryl socialized with some of the knights as they gathered, finishing up their training for the day. Half of them would be sent for duties in the towns over and half would remain to guard the castle. Ryl happened to be one of the half staying. He sat at a nearby bench that sat before the training grounds and cleaned his sword, hoping to achieve a shiny finish. The wind swept against his black messy hair, drying his forehead and his sweaty hair. It was quite warm out, despite the cool breeze. Ryl had taken off most of his armor to be able to breathe, although he was trained to be prepared for anything. But who had to be fully armored to be prepared? He always liked a challenge. His chain mail hung over his shoulders and covered his slightly tattered shirt underneath, which was also drenched in sweat. Ryl kept half of his leg armor on, but removed the armor protecting his feet. His brown leather boots were worn underneath. The breeze swept against him once again, and he relaxed against it.

Hope stared at the man from her not so good hiding place as he cleaned his blade. She had wanted to apologize for her outburst but never had a good opportunity. Until now. Uncertainty was creeping up on her. If she approached the knights, they might think to report her to her Father.. or he might change his mind and do it. Hope wasn't sure which stung more. After another moment, Hope inhaled deeply and stuffed the book back into its satchel and stuffed it back into the grass. She stood up and brushed herself off, and marched over to the man. Hope went the long way around though, not wanting to bump into a solider and and risk her father wrath anymore than she already is. Soon she stood in front of the dark haired man who had spoken to her before. "I-I um.. would like to apologize for my behavior before.." Hope said quietly, her gaze having dropped to stare at the dirt. She twiddled her fingers as anxious tension surrounded her.

Ryl looked up at her. He had noticed her watching him from afar and clearly debating walking over here. He smiled slightly and nodded. “I didn’t think anything of it, Your Highness.” He dipped his head respectfully and placed his sword beside him. The manner was also respectful. If there was any sort of manner that appeared disrespectful, there could be consequences. “Oh, and don’t worry. I’m not saying anything about your whereabouts, Your Highness.” Ryl added, resting an arm horizontally over a knee as he looked up at her, curiosity filling his eyes. Why are you risking being out here? He thought to himself as he gazed over her, hoping to find any sort of information to satisfy his curiosity.

Hope sighed in relief, all that worrying had been for nothing. She felt silly at the thought of one of her knights betraying her at all. Though that thought was extinguished at the thought of her father.. They were loyal to him, not her. Of course they would report her! It didn't matter now though, what was done was done "T-thank you.. I'm Hope." The princess extended a hand, her pale flesh almost reflecting the afternoon sun. "But you probably knew that.. Heh" Hope stifled a laugh and turned her head to the side, her face flushing in embarrassment once more.

Ryl smiled again, enjoying the princess’ amusing interactions. “My name is Rylo, Your Highness. However, for most that is too long, so I am mostly called ‘Ryl’” He said, humor sneaking into his tone. Ryl got to his feet and shook her hand, dipping his head respectfully. “Will your father worry about your absence?” He asked, his smile fading and his face frowning concerned. The princess being punished for being out here wasn’t in his best interest, yet exploring wasn’t a terrible thing.

Hope crossed her arms as she straightened her gaze back at Ryl. She found the name strange but didn't give it much though "Let's not talk about him. He doesn't control everything I do." She replied before turning, looking up at the cloudy sky. Hope sighed softly "Are the swords heavy..? I've always thought it would be fun to learn how to use a sword but my father never let me anywhere near anything sharp as a child." Hope said softly, reminiscing of her extensive studies when she was younger. She never got a moment to herself during those years, always being shoved into a study room with a loud teacher

07:07

@DAVINA

Ryl shrugged and nodded. “That’s quite fair.” He murmured, but didn’t say any more. He looked at her with interest as she asked about the swords. “Hmm. I suppose it depends on your strength—but there are different weights of swords. I say this one is quite light.” He smiled softly, glancing down at the blade. It had black leather wrapper around the handle that had letters burned into it. His finger traced over it and he looked up at Hope, taking a deep inhale.

Hope followed his gaze down to the sword, the metal shining brightly in the sunlight. She watched as he ran his fingers over the handles letters, curiosity beginning to dig its cold talons into her "I... assume you aren't the first to own that sword, are you Rylo?" Hope said slowly as she look back up, meeting his eyes. Her lavender eyes nearly swelling with tears burned with curiosity and passion, the thought who the blade could have belonged to before burned into her mind

He nodded slowly and smiled, sheathing the sword. “I’m sure you wouldn’t want your father knowing you asked about a sword?” He asked, humor hinting is tone. Ryl got to his feet, grabbing his armor. “Your Highness. I must return to my duties at some point, shouldn’t I?” He murmured, smiling.

Hope quickly stepped aside to allow him to pass, her eyes dropping to the soil once more "R-right! I'm sorry, I didn't mean to keep you!!" Hope turned and quickly sprinted off before Rylo could reply though she nearly tripped multiple times. Her face flushed brightly as she ran into her room, slamming the door behind her. Hope flopped on her bed, sighing deeply. She could only get embarrassed so many times before dying of it, right? Hope groaned as sleepiness creeped up on her, tossing the princess into slumber as the sun began its decent to dusk...

Ryl watched her sprint off and shook his head, chuckling softly. He headed to the small remaining group of knights who were being addressed posts. His post assigned would be in the main hall of the kingdom, along with one other knight. This was truly an honor. Rylo fully armored himself and headed to his post within efficient timing. He stood up straight as he entered the room and took in his surroundings. They were trained to remember every detail of their surroundings, as it could come in handy. He could see the daylight turning into a golden-orange light as sunset began. As the sun slipped past the horizon, the King and several other higher ranked commanders, generals and such gather just before the thrones. They talked in hushed, urgent whispers as if something wasn’t quite right. Ryl inwardly sighed and tried to keep away from eavesdropping. He remembered Hope and pondered about the King’s protectiveness over her.

A knock filled the Princesses room, causing her to groaned loudly and stir in the bed. "You should get ready. There is a meeting in the throne room, Your Highness!" A high voice called out, most likely one of the maids telling her the meeting in the throne room as Hope had requested since she was never invited Hope groaned once more before getting out of bed, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. She quickly undressed, her porcelain skin reflecting the orange glow from the window. She fetched a dress from her closet and slipped it on before rushing out of the room. As she ran to the throne room, the Princess fixed her messy hair to no avail. There was no undoing this bedhead any time soon. Hope erupted into the throne room, the burning light from the many candles reflecting off her sparkly dress. A soft pink glow creeped upon her cheeks, having never had so many eyes trained on her at once. Hope was usually never seen by people, always been tucked away by her father until a few years ago. Some had even thought she was myth

Rylo raised his eyebrows in surprise as he saw Hope enter the room. She was absolutely gorgeous—yet he was not allowed to be noticing these things. Training his eyes on more important things was a difficult task. Rylo did his absolute best to avoid eavesdropping and glancing at the beautiful princess. No wonder her father locked her away from society for so long—she was definitely one of his biggest treasures. The sun eventually dipped behind the sky, leaving the moon to shine cold rays over the castle. He could feel the cool night breeze rush through the castle and almost wished he was stationed outside. Ryl would look over and notice the urgency of the meeting and he began to get worried. Each and every one of them appeared stressed and anxious.

Hope walked through the large room, the clicking of her heels muffled by the many voices filling the area. She sat in the throne beside her father's throne, where the massive figure of a man sat discussing with others whom Hope assumed to be generals and ambassadors. The throne was a little big for the young Princess, having been made for her mother. Since she was longer with the world, it had fallen to Hope. Unofficially, of course. If her father knew, he would be very angry. Hope had grown rebellious against her father's wishes as the years went by. The princess knew he was getting old so she needed to be ready for the throne. He refused despite his age however..

Ryl kept himself still as possible as they guarded the throne room. However, he wondered how much longer he’d be standing here. It had a couple of hours since he was stationed, so him leaving anytime soon was unlikely. He’d occasionally glance over at Hope, without moving his head, of course. Ryl could tell she was rebelling in some sort of way, judging by the look on her face. He smiled and admired her determination. Good for you, princess. Ryl thought, looking away and training his eyes on the window in front of him.

Hope sat mostly still as she looked over the guests of the hall, finding more high ranking soldiers in the army, even more Noble's, and of course foot soldiers stationed at every entrance wearing heavy armor. The princess's hope felted after every soldier she saw, meaning one less chance Rylo should be there. Finally she saw him, a smile forming across her cheeks! Hope quickly waved over to him, hoping to grab his attention quickly before anyone saw

Ryl noticed the princess’ quick wave. He glanced over and smiled, dipping his head quickly before anyone noticed. He then focused his eyes ahead of him, yet still watching Hope from the corner of his eye. Ryl took a deep breath and grabbed the hilt of his sword as new people entered the room, panicked expressions shadowing their faces. He could tell something was wrong—very wrong from the urgency and desperation in the room. Rylo would relax his hand as he recognized the faces. Dipping his head, he watched as they approached the king with what seemed like news. He would glance over to Hope and give her a concerned look, wondering if she knew what was going on or even noticed something was wrong within the room.

Hope puffed her cheeks in a pout as she was more or less ignored by the man. She then cleared her throat, stood up in her throne, and waved at him once more. This time in a more beckoning motion. "Come on.. you're the only person I know here.. Don't make me yell for you..!" The princess growled quietly, her strange behavior gathering more than a few odd glances. Hope didn't mind them nor the people approaching her father. It was too much of a risk to get close to eavesdrop and nobody was going to tell her so why bother

Ryl shook his head, noticing her. He turned his head, raising an eyebrow. “I’ll be right back.” He murmured to the guard beside him. He walked over slowly, taking his dear time. Ryl stopped several feet in front of Hope and glanced at the people gathered nearby. “You beckoned me, Your Highness?” He asked, in a polite manner. None of the gathered people took interest though, as they were more concerned about their ongoing conversation. @Katelyn "Ducky" Snowfall

Hope nodded with extreme vigor as she sat back down. She adjusted her dress before beckoning him closer "Come on, get up here. I have questions I don't want the whole court to hear. Not that'd be listening to me to begin with.." Hope muttered the last bit, her cheeks puffing once more The princess began messing with the ring on her left hand, an anxious feeling boiling side her. It had to be from the atmosphere... so many hushed voices always raised concern in any court, but more so these days. Her father had grown more ambitus with his war efforts and Hope knew it was only a matter of time before it bit him in the ass..

“Yes, Your Highness.” He said, giving her a slight smirk as he glanced to see if the people were watching or listening. Ryl walked closer and stood right next to the throne, but didn’t sit. He’d hold his hands behind his back, gripping his wrist with his other hand. “What questions do you have, Princess?” He’d ask in a low, hushed voice to match the crowd’s. Rylo could tell she was anxious, but he didn’t make any comment. He himself was growing anxious by the minute. The King had been talking for about two hours now on whatever the secret matter was—and it was quite nerve wracking to sit and wait for them to announce something. @Katelyn "Ducky" Snowfall

Hope looked among the crowd once more, her eyes trailing over every guest and every fold in their clothes. Her father's war had made any large gatherings fill Hope with anxiety. It wouldn't be to hard to slip any weapons or poison into the castle, despite the guards. The princess sat back in the throne, avoiding eye contact with Rylo as she continued to scan the guests "I assume you don't have any idea what's going on either, right?" Hope asked in a hushed tone, a few of the guests glaring at the pair. Mainly the dark haired man, jealous that he was so close to the elusive princess

Ryl shook his head softly. “No, Your Highness. Just as curious as you are.” He murmured, noticing the stares from the guests. He held his head high and met them back, before turning to look at Hope. “May I have your attention, please.” The King finally announced, drawing everyone’s attention. “I have brought you all here to discuss an urgent matter…” He bellowed, sitting up straight within his throne. “There is an army from the Teros Kingdom marching to Orira with the intention of taking it over.” Audible gasps and shushes were heard throughout the room as they waited for the King to continue. Ryl stiffened and sucked in a breath, his eyebrows knit in concentration. The news must be very recent, as the knights and guards would’ve been told hours ago. “Their estimated arrival—is tonight.” The King practically sighed, knowing what would come next. Shouts of panic and disapproval rang through the throne room, people ushering themselves forward to protest and ask questions. “We’re sending out an army now to meet them a mile from the Kingdom. However, we have no help from other kingdoms—the news arrived too late…” Ryl could see the King slump in his chair, doubt resting on his face. Orira isn’t going to make it. Ryl processed, glancing at Hope. He stalked towards the crowd of guards and a few knights, awaiting orders from the generals. Ryl was expecting to be sent to the battlefield, except he was told to stay put. The relief set in his chest wasn’t that he’d have a better chance at living, but that he could watch over the Princess and keep her safe. Ryl’s eyes wandered in Hope’s direction and he gave her a blank glare.

Hope stared in disbelief as her father spoke, pure fear rushing over her entire being. No way.. She had always knew it was a possibility, but knowing it was coming was entirely different. She could only stare at the large man she called father for a long while Suddenly she stood up right, her pale figure demanding attention "How could you let it get this bad?!" She screamed, fear and rage overtaking her emotions. The crowd became silent as the princess spoke, especially her father having just noticing the young girl was there.. As tears began to stream down her tears, Hope quickly turned and began to rush out of the room. The only sound echoing through the castle were the sound of her sobs...

Ryl stood, widening his eyebrows slightly as he hadn’t expected her to react. He watched the shocked expressions of the people and her father, whose expression soon became angered. Silence fell over the castle. He watched as Hope ran out of the throne room and he felt sympathy pierce his heart. Ryl wished to follow her and comfort her—maybe crack a joke. However, maybe it was a bad time for a joke… Either way, he would’ve followed her if Ryl wasn’t assigned to a post. His loyalty kept him still as a statue, however much it pained him. The King sighed and stood up, clearly angry. If he had time to, Ryl could tell he would’ve stormed off after Hope or to his own room. Unfortunately for him, there was an army marching their way with the intention of taking down their walls. The King walked towards the door, a crowd following him as he gave orders in preparation for the impending war. He disappeared behind the doors and silence fell over the room. Ryl walked to his new post along with another knight. They were both stationed outside of the royalty’s rooms—including Hope. His mind wandered, curious if he’d see her leave the room. However, he assumed she was told to stay put. Ryl also knew that she was a rebellious type. He grinned at the thought, glancing at the engraved art into the wooden door that was Hope’s bedroom.

The princess slammed her heavy doors shut as she reached her room, flopped on her bed and continued to sob for a little less than an hour. Hope wiped the wetness from her tear stained cheeks, glaring at the mirror that reflected her sadness and fury back. She screamed, throwing a fist into the mirror. It shattered, the sharp blades tearing into the soft pale flesh of the princess.. She could only continue her sobs as she clutched her bleeding hand.. Hope tore a piece from her dress and wrapped it around her hand a short moment latter, than began to undress. Throwing her once perfect dress aside, she slipped on another pair of leather pants, a cloth shirt, and her high leather boots. Swallowing her emotions, Hope placed a hand on the door handle. She opened it as she exhaled, stepping out into the now doomed home

Ryl stiffened when he heard the subtle noise of her bedroom door opening. He whipped his head towards the door and watched the princess step out into the empty hallway. “Princess? What are you doing?” He asked, walking over to her, his strides long and slow and his footsteps echoing. He noticed her clothes, dressed for another occasion other than looking pretty. Ryl glanced back and forth between the halls for any danger of the sort. He finally reached in front of her, his hands behind his back. “It’s not exactly safe, Your Highness.” He smiled slightly, but wore a concerned, stern face.

Hope slowed her rampaging march, turning behind her to face the solider. Her cheeks immediately flushed, not only from embarrassment. "I.. I need to talk to my father. We need to evacuate the town as soon as possible! Innocents will get caught in the crossfire and they will die!" Her rage reignited, she turned back and began to walk quickly toward the throne room "I can't believe him... What an old fool.." Hope muttered quickly to herself. Her father had dragged this war on long enough and it will cost many innocents their lives.

Ryl opened his mouth to object, but the Princess was right. Innocents would die if the King didn’t evacuate them. Yet, knowing him, he’d probably set them all up to fight. “Princess, let me see to it. You’re safer in your bedroom.” He shouted after her, quickly following. Ryl would do his best to make sure the King knew of the Princess’ wish, but if she went himself, Rylo would have a lot of answering to do for letting the Princess wander freely. However, he hadn’t heard of such orders for her to be confined. “The army could be here any moment, evacuation may be too late. I hope you know.” He sighed, walking alongside her, matching Hope stride for stride.

Hope stopped walking once more, her gaze dropping to the floor. He was right.. It could definitely be too late and many people would be slaughtered.. Even if they could get everyone out safely, where would they go? Her father had ruined relationships with every nearby kingdom so they could go to anyone for help. They were fucked whether they stayed or left.. Hope gritted her teeth, turning back to the dark haired guard. "They're dead either way...Aren't they..?" Tears began to swell in the princess eyes, spilling on the marble floor. "It was our job as their leaders to protect them.. I failed before even getting to sit on the throne.."