The Lady in Waiting (Lady Bloody Ava & Greeneyed23)

Cynthia huffed not trusting the man.

The guardsman followed, then flushed as Rallon, who held the Queen's arm, was guiding the great lady to the sitting room. He stopped, excused himself from the Queen, and move to kiss his wife then take her arm while his eyes flicked to Tia who vanished to bring food to Robin.

Cynthia sat and pawed her father's hip and he looked over his arm, which was wrapped about Rose. 'Yes dear?"

Cynthia huffed then gave a yowl before her own gaze flicked to the now petrified guardsman. Rallon followed the gaze and smiled brightly. "Why thank you for keeping an eye on my wife and daughters sir. You are most kind." His voice was warmth, sweetness and delight, but Cynthia and Rose could see the cold threat in his eyes, and Fisher nodded from behind the man, knowing his lord's orders without their utterance.

Rallon turned gently guiding his wife to the Queen, taking her arm once more and lead both women unerringly to the sitting room, helping them sit in the best chairs then getting another for himself to sit beside Rose as they spoke with Her Majesty. He took his wife's hand smiling as he shook his head at the proffered wine. "Forgive me Your Highness. I do not drink intoxicating drinks. Just water please. Would you like some wine my love?"

The Queen beamed at his clear trust then blinked. "Oh but what of the baby?"

Cynthia, as usual under her father's chair her jaw resting on his crossed ankles, opened her eye as Rallon smiled. "Well Your Grace, we hadn't yet made that official had we? But Rose knows what she can handle." He kissed Rose's hand and waited for her answer.

The Queen was stunned. She had never seen any man who trusted his wife so completely, and certainly no man who let her make decisions so easily. Rallon let Rose move as she wished, speak as she liked, and do as she willed and not in suffering but in total trust. "You certainly will be popular in court Lord Granger."

Rallon blinked not understanding and, with an effort, tore his gaze from Rose. "Your Grace?"

The Queen laughed and waved the comment away. Rallon shrugged and sipped his water thanking the servant who brought it.

Rose couldn't have felt more comfort than when her warm gaze landed upon the sight of her husband. Everything seemed to be running smoothly and with a welcomed kiss pressed to her lips, she no longer gave the guardsman a thought. Rose wore a worry free smile towards the man that held a silent warning.

One would have to be a complete fool to cross swords with Rallon. The sitting room was cozy and warm, which made her comfortable down to the very bone. Once seated she welcomed his touch as she held his hand. Before Rose could reply to the question, Her Majesty spoke first. A warm flush of heat took over the cheeks of her face as her husband explained his actions.

Oh Rose knew all too well how lucky she was to have a husband such as Rallon. He was the rarest of man of these times. Even Rose was curious as to the words that left those Royal lips. When the comment was waved away then Rose decided not to probe further despite her curiosity. "No thank you, Your Highness. Water will suit me just fine." She too thanked the servant and sipped upon her water before setting it aside.

Rose was growing tire. The warmth of the fire beneath the nearby mantle coupled with her husband's comfortingcompany and a full stomach, made for the eprfect combination for this pregnant woman to rest her head upon her husband's lap and doze off, as she loved to do. Alas, this was not the place, nor the time.

The Queen chatted with Rallon about York and the changes he was putting into place, and his plans for the future. He answered her honestly but gave away no secrets or truly real answers. She might be Queen but this was not the place nor time to give away information.

He was also more careful because he was watching his wife. The Queen noted this as well. He did not watch with a jealous or angry eye but with utter love. Some would call it obsession but he treated Rose too well for that. It made her miss her own husband all the more.

Rallon noted the fatigue settling upon Rose and broke off from an answer. "Forgive me Your Grace but my wife is pregnant and it has been a long day. Would you excuse us?"

She nodded and struggled to stifle her own yawn. "But of course. We will speak more on the morrow."

"Of course Your Grace." he bowed to the queen then helped Rose to stand and lead her to their rooms where he helped her out of her clothes then pulled her to the bed where he rubbed her feet and ankles. "I trust you are feeling well my love?"

Cynthia snuggled against her mother and licked her face then sniffed the belly, trying to check on her mother as well.

Rose listened as Rallon spoke to the Queen. The woman being in no real mood to talk, but she was inclined to listen. The Lady of York's thoughts wavered and when Rallon spoke of his 'wife', her attention was snagged. "I am sorry, Your Majesty. I look forward to seeing you on the morrow. With those parting words, Rose graciously accepted her husband's offered hand to get back on her feet. She kindly bowed before parting ways and relinquished a sigh of relief.

A weary chuckle sounded at her dear husband's question. "Yes, my dear sweet husband. I am merely tired. Our dear child drains the life out of me, so to speak." Her back was propped against some of the finest pillows as warm eyes watched the sight of her husband her tended to her sore body.

"Mmmm...that feels wondrous. I've no idea what I would ever do without you, Rallon Granger." A lax and weary smile sat upon her lips as one hand idly stroked the soft coat of her fuzzy child. Rallon was lulling his pregnant wife to sleep with his ministrations, where she lay. Her consciousness waned, but one though did come to mind.

"Rallon... what of Robin and Marian?" She wanted Marian freed and this thought had the stubborn woman feebly fighting off sleep until she found out how they were progressing, if at all. She yawned softly, bringing the back of her hand over her mouth before deciding to rest her eyes shut for now.

He continued to rub her feet and ankles carefully and lovingly, Cynthia soon passion out on her mother. Only after popping her ankles repeatedly and working free several knots did he answer. "Marian is locked in the tower, fortunately in a modestly comfortable room and is well treated. Robin is in the spare room which I have guarded and hidden behind Tia and Fisher's room. But easy my love. not all ears here are loyal to Her Majesty and even those that are speak too much."

He lifted her feet and kissed each toy, then her knees then her tummy then each nipple before kissing her lips. "Now do us a favor Lady Granger. Hush. SOME people are trying to sleep." Cynthia snuffled but did not wake as he smiled at his wife, his eyes gleaming playfully.

He lay beside her and shifted down and pulled her close to be held and cuddled, as always his body between hers and any access point, while CYnthia lay before her, sharing her warmth.

Rallon kissed her neck and smiled. "Tell me have i told you that in addition to being wonderful, amazing, sexy, and beautiful, that you are my favorite person ever and that your skin is my favorite fragrance and edible treat?" To illustrate he nibbled lightly pulling her closer. He understood she was tired but also that she would enjoy the teasing. And the feeling of his erection. He would not, and currently could not, consummate his desires for her, not here not now, but he could remind her just how mad she drove him. it would please her.

Rose wore and endless smile as he husbands comforting voice spoke. The modest woman felt a warm blush on her cheeks as her husband showered each little piggy with a kiss before peppering a way to her nipples and at her side. The man was wondrous and so sweet that she felt spoiled. His lips were one of her favorite treats as she helped herself to another kiss before he spoke once more and she relished the warmth of his body. She eyes looked to the fuzzy child who tried to lay slumbering on her human pillow.

Lady Granger's heart swelled as he pulled her close.She couldn't have felt more comfortable, ever. "Mmmm.." She softly sighed when his lips met the curve of her neck. His voice was like a melody that would never grow old and fed her comfort and warm alone. Her cheeks we very hot and red as her husband complimented her. It was no wonder others would call Rose a goddess, because the Lord of York treated her like no less. As Rallon nibbled, he stole her breath away as her hand caressed at his inner thigh and ghosted along the marble hard length of his arousal.

"Rallon Granger... how I love you so." The woman couldn't stop smiling, even if she wanted to. It was a lovely side effect of being Rallon Granger's wife. "You spoil me rotten, you know this?" The sweet, weary woman teased. She pressed a kiss to his lips and each one got a little hungrier. Her tongue sought solace past his where she fed him a delicious moan and when she felt sated, for the time being, she smiled and impish smile before relaxing with her eyes closed. Lady Granger would be asleep in a matter of moment. Safe and sound in the presence of the most wondrous, kind, powerful, and handsome man that any woman could ever wish for. Even their unborn child had a calm night within their mother's womb.

He arched an eyebrow at her words, then grew concerned and leaned in kissing her lips, then the tip of her nose, then her eyes, then her forehead, then back to her lips. He licked his lips then shook his head. "I am afraid that cannot be true my love. You are still very sweet to me. If you have spoiled then i am unsure what you were fresh." he grinned then winked at her and leaned in kissing her again.

"I do love you as well my darling dear."

He wrapped around her and squeezed her close and kissed one last time before snuggling into her and drifting off to sleep with her.

The next morning he woke her with a loving kiss. "Time to rise my darling. Breakfast awaits. Her Majesty is eager to dine with us."

Cynthia yowled. "Yes with you too. In fact she requested you specially."

Rose slept soundly, as always when Rallon was at her side. True love's kiss awoke the sleeping beauty and she smiled before she even opened her eyes. A weary little chuckle sounded as that fan of lashes lifted to reveal those warm green pools that were her eyes. She sat up and the blankets fell from her generous bust to her lap.

Her breasts had become a tad sensitive a while ago, but now she was noting that they may have increased in size a bit. It was a mental though, but was pushed aside as she raked her fingers through her golden tendrils and slipped out of bed to prepare for breakfast. To the basin she walked to wash her face and dry it off.

In no time she was dressed in a simplistic light blue gown with a heart shaped neckline that modestly hinted at her slightly larger breasts. With a gentle glow about her she was escorted to the dining hall where she bowed gracefully to Her Majesty before seating herself. The girls were all behaving themselves immensely and looking adorable, as always.

"Good morning, Your Grace. You look radiant, as always and breakfast smells divine." She smiled and thegirl brought up conversations. "Your Grace...pardon my forwardness as I did send you an invitation, but I would love it if you attended our ball later this year. Your presence would be thehighlight of the night." She humbly stated as she sipped on the freshly squeezed orange juice.

Rallon dressed quickly and simply in his usual black suit then sat watching his wife while Cynthia snuggled with her father. "You know my love i must say you have never looked more beautiful. Nor more sexy."

He walked her out to the dining room, though he paused at both doors for a deep loving kiss.

At the table he sat quietly holding his wife's hand and eating silently as ever.

The Queen nodded. "i would love to come...if you are sure...?"

He laughed. "Your Grace if you don't come my wife will be deeply offended and I will have to be quite hurt."

The Queen blinked watching him thinking he was serious, then she laughed while he smiled still eating and sneaking Cynthia her breakfast while she sat on her mother's foot and leaned against her leg happy as she could be.

The smile upon the lovely Lady Rose's lips remained from when her husband flattered her with his sweet words. Rose laughed with her husband. She ate her food with poise and grace that was bred into her. The girls spoke of their plans at the ball and their favorite moments. Rose looked to Thea with a smile and nodded her head once before the young one spoke up.

"If I may, Your Eminence, you should come back with us and see how our brother has changed things for the better." Thea blushed adorably before Rose chuckled and smiled.

"That is a good idea. That is... if Her Majesty does not mind getting out of these walls and enjoying a new scenery. Your company is most refreshing and while you have been an amazing hostess, I would love to return the favor, Your Grace." As Malachite had said, it was hard to say no to Rose. A pregnant and glowing Rose? To do so would take a great deal of effort.

Rallon did not speak unless spoken to directly. He marveled at his wife. She was so skilled at so much, but especially this diplomatic speaking. To be fair they both truly adored the Queen, but Rose was so smooth and skilled. He knew she was far his superior in many skills, but he prized her soft word and touch more than even his own or Fisher's swords. Partially because it was a soft word or touch from her that caused both to be drawn, but also because she achieved much more with her weapons than he with his.

He leaned over and kissed his wife's neck while the Queen asked Thea, "And just what changes have been made my child? And I am Queen. Not bishop or Pope. Your Eminence is a title exclusively for the clergy my dear. I would not wish for you to get in trouble with our beloved Archbishop." Her face darkened. The Archbishops of England were a varied lot. Westminster, Canterbury, and Wales were all powerful and rich, and it was long suspected that they, or at least one of them was working with John in the usurpation of the nations. The Queen had her suspicions, but she and the Archbishop of Canterbury had gotten into a number of very angry and often public arguments and nearly violent fights over his lack of concern for the needy, while she was famous for the hours she spent sharing gold, food, water, clothes, blankets and shelter with those in need.

Rallon rumbled to his wife and smiled noting the face. The Queen could not be brought into the plan for her own safety, but she would make a powerful ally. Not just for Rallon and Rose, but for York itself and that gave him an idea. "Your Grace?"

The Queen's head snapped up surprised. "Yes Lord Granger?"

"Perhaps we could discuss the establishment of an archdiocese in York? Our own dear clergy was recently taken from us. They people are in need of a strong religious leader."

She blinked at the request then slowly nodded. "I will discuss it with the Archbishops. And I shall write His Eminence. I am sure he will agree it is necessary." She smiled at Thea. "Especially with all these 'changes.' Go on my dear. I wish to hear all about them."

Thea blushed profusely, but kindly apologized for the error in wording. When her brother soon spoke up all eyes were on him. Once more the attention was on the young and beautiful Thea, who's confidence was bolstered by the Lady of York right before breakfast. She encouraged the young Granger to ask the question. Thea smiled a soft and sweet smile as the Queen as her once more of the 'changes'.

"Well, Your Grace, the Lady and Lord of York have provided many jobs for those in need and the amount of criminals has decreased significantly since my brother's return, thanks to strict rules and fair judgement." Those warm eyes would look over to her brother for a moment of support before continuing on. Rose is working with other nobles to establish a school and shelter for children with no homes or family. Not only that but the market is booming with new business and flourishing with salesmen from abroad creating a larger flow of income for the city and larger variety of items for trade." Rose smiled wide and bright, clearly proud of the young girl for her knowledge.

Rose continued to eat and enjoy herself. When finished she rest her hand upon her husband's leg and caressed it lovingly. The other girls took turns listing new events going in their beloved city. Each sporting the best etiquette and enthusiasm in their voice. Helping others brought smiles to their faces and they shared nostalgia with the Queen of helping those in need.

The Queen beamed at Rose and Rallon with all these reports but she was surprised that not only did neither coach the speakers, not did they seem truly concerned. Rallon himself seemed to completely disregard the entire conversation as he cleared three plates, drained several pitchers and helped his youngest sisters refill their plates and glasses, and was careful to kept his cousins and their men well supplied as well. All the Grangers, and the cousins, ate furiously and well.

Each of the twelve girls also reported to Her Majesty on their own favorite aspects of the new city. Thea of course was most excited about events with the local children, her friends, the eldest were thrilled about the new coming nobles and their handsome sons, and the many opportunities to develop themselves into fine nobles with wealth and status, though they also made clear that they would choose only the right men not fiddle away with some boy. They also discussed the new musicians coming into the city, the artisans, the craftsmans, the builders, the new castle being built, the manor and so much more. Soon the twelve Grangers, two cousins, Fisher, Tia, and the two young men courting Rallon's cousins, had filled The Queen in on every bit of news, gossip, hope, dream, and wish in York. And Rallon never said a word about any of it, just focused on eating, ensuring his family was well sorted, and of course kissing his wife any chance he got.

Finally the Queen, wiping her eyes in laughter from a story about Cynthia chasing down a would be thief, clapped her hands. "Enough enough enough my darlings! I couldn't bear anymore!" She continued to laugh for some time then accepted a proffered handkerchief and after wiping her eyes and restoring her calm she looked at Rallon who was now working with Cynthia on some her tricks, currently she had to sit stone still with two rolls on her face, one balance on her nose the other on her head. The Queen stared as he held up a finger and the wolflike dog watched her father patiently, not even her tail twitching, then he snapped his fingers and she was just as quickly eating both rolls. "My good girl." he rubbed her ears and she lay her jaw on his leg.

"Lord Granger...it would seem you are revolutionizing the North. And raising a fine family."

Rallon shook his head. "I merely am the one signing the papers Your Grace." he pointed around the table. "They are the revolution. The rebirth. And as for the family?" He leaned over and kissed Rose's neck. "In addition to keep me alive, on point, and utterly besotted with her, she took it upon herself to raise and protect my dear sisters after the death of my mother and father. Their progress is due to her entirely. Though Thea is still ugly."

Thea scowled and through a roll at her brother but Cynthia popped up, caught, and ate it in a moment.

The Queen arched an eyebrow. "You refuse to take any credit yourself?"

Rallon considered. "Well Your Grace.... i did kill lotsa people. Including my own brothers unfortunately. I've had to commit great violence. I do not consider that of importance. Coming home, marrying Rose, fathering a child-" Cynthia barked. "And finding my first, those are my achievements. Rose is my victory Your Grace. My everything." He leaned over and kissed his wife again and the girls 'awwwed.' Rallon ignored them while the Queen studied the pair thoughtfully. She had been sure she would find some niche in his armor. No man behaved like this. Especially not to his wife and sisters.

She smiled. "Well....shall we break from the table and go to Court? I am sure you dear ladies wish to attend?"

The girls all squealed then looked at Rallon who nodded. "Remember your manners. Thea stay near Her Majesty." The girls and the Queens rushed out and Rallon sighed as he leaned over once more to kiss his wife, though this time his lips found her neck and he whispered. 'Robin has been fed and is already in the carriage well hidden. Let us go to Court then we can begin our rescue of Marian." He nibbled her ear lobe. "All I do is for love of you."

Rose remained silent and nibbled at her second plate while stewing in her thoughts. While lax smile did sit upon her lips it picked up each time her husband gifted her with a kiss. Her eyes would look upon the girls as they spoke and the Queen's expressions were priceless and Rose couldn't help but laugh. Having already known the details of the story, her laughter was short and sweet. Their fuzzy child was adorably resting her head upon her father's lap.

Her Majesty was too kind and even Rose blushed the family was complimented. Honestly, she was proud of them: from their cousins, the girls, Tia, Fisher, and their fuzzy child. Her attention was snagged and her heart lept up out of surprise as she was given a kiss. Thea openly giggled at the sight of her brother's wife who was blushing as red as the flower that she was named after.

On her sweet and charming husband spoke after turning down any credit. With a humble smile, Rose held Rallon's hand and spoke up. "Your Grace, he has his stubborn moments, and taking credit is one of them." Both ladies laughed before Court was suggested and the girls were elated. When all were off and it was just her and Rallon, she sighed out of relief and pleasure when his lips met her neck and his words fell on her ears. "Good. I'm glad." The words emerged as a sigh of relief.

Rose would feel a slight nervousness, but as always, Rallon knew how to wash it away with words alone. "Let us be off... I want Marion freed as soon as possible." She whispered softly before she walked hand in hand with her husband, ready to head off.

Rallon smirked sensing the shudder in his bride. He slid his arm along her back and gently gripped her side tickling her ribs.

"My love when have I ever failed you? You wanted me to come home. i did. You wanted me to marry you. i did. You wanted me to give you children. Well Cynthia showed up on her own but now we have another coming. Your will is my command." he kissed her neck. "Love you Rose."

He squeezed her gently to his side and hissed. "Marian will be fine. Tia and Fisher are moving Robin to a secluded grotto at the mouth of the river. Where a fast ship is waiting. We will get her out to him and they will sail north while we stay and keep John off their trail."

They came to the door and Rallon paused. "I have to ask my love. now. Are you sure? once we step out that door You must be the perfect example of lady you are. You will have to be charming, sweet, friendly, and demure all at once. And you always are...but if you have any doubt we don't dare." His hand came up to caress her neck. "I love Marian and will do all i can, but only if you give your word."

He tired not to remind her that John already hated them and would welcome a chance to throw them and their family in the tower. And that he had many spies and associates here. As he had said any doubt, any flaw, any hesitation would kill them all. Her word was his will. The decision was hers. The Lady Granger commanded her knight not through force or right of power, but through his heart. Her will. His command.

The very mention of John caused her to shiver. The man was disgusting in her eyes. Every aspect of his was down right disrespectful and cruel. She was stopped by her husband before she could open the door to join the others. Her gaze melded with his as he spoke. "Rallon..." She spoke his name with a sweet and reassuring smile upon her naked lips. "... we set out here for a purpose and I intend to see it through."

She sealed it with a kiss, pressed to his sweet lips as she held his hand with hers. "Now come." Rose was not going to break down and she was certainly going to to be put to the test. These days it was customary for a man to ask the husband of a married woman for permission to dance. However, it was not necessary for a woman to ask a married man's wife to dance with him. John, of course, was always the exception of all rules, so he thought.

John sat at the high table and Rose could feel his eyes upon her. She was all smiles and conversations. The woman was all aglow and almost everyone voiced it. Some women held a jealous undertone to their words and the Lady of York shrugged it off with ease. "If it is a boy, his name will be James, after his only uncle, may he rest in peace." Of course she was not questioned about the other brothers, for it was well known that they were no good to Lady Rose and their Lord of York.

Multiple offers for drinks were made and Rose refused them all. She spoke of the future for York and of the future ball to come, drawing quite the crowd around the beautiful and well known noble. Women were drawn by hints of new trends and the men were drawn to her. Pregnant or not, most men wanted between her legs, her coin purse, or both. Other nobles joined in her conversation. People speaking of an invitation to their ball and making donations to her causes for the children. John was bound to leave his perch any moment, until then she remained, naturally, calm.

Rallon smiled. "As you will it my love. Thus it shall be." he kissed her in return then lead her into the throneroom.

And was ignored. Well not totally. many hungry eyes roamed him, and many tried to worm into his good graces, though none were smart enough to use the one that could have worked had they been sincere. Rose.

He eventually just tuned everyone out and let Rose handle everything, while he, Tia, and Fisher began to scout the place out. They were too far from the tower to investigate it but they had others working on that. Rallon made especial use of his sisters to distract everyone, first by snagging Thea by the hand and letting her get silly on one side, and keeping a firm hold on Rose on his other side, thus enclosing him.

He did smile at the many compliments his truly stunning bride received and when John stood to head their way he laughed. "I believe it is time to dance." And lead his bride out onto the floor and began to dance with her humming along with the music and smiling, while Thea mounted Cynthia and rode her around the room much to the delight of everyone present.

Rose laughed and made social conversation with those who sought it, but dare not venture far from her husband. While she did notice the female vultures stalking her husband and feebly attempting to make their moves, she wore a small smile of appreciation for the love he held for her. Their love for one another held no bounds.

Rose got her fair share of compliments about her brave and wise husband, along with the great changes that he has made since his arrival. She was all smiles as Rallon snagged her and held her close. She had not noticed John approaching them, but she certainly was not going to turn down a dance with her husband.

Dancing with her beloved husband, she smiled and laughed as she looked around and caught sight of the adorable sight of Thea riding on the back of her fuzzy butt child. The distinct sound of someone clearing their throat surprised her and she peered over the smooth skin of her bare shoulder to see John, asking Rallon for permission to dance with Rose by a slight bow and offering his hand.

Rallon shrugged. "It is her decision not mine." he brought their joined hands together and kissed her's lightly.

"What say you my love? Would you dance with Prince John?" he studied her face awaiting her answer.

The Queen stood nearby watching them carefully. As was the rest of the room. Once again Rallon was startling everyone with his actions.

Thea and Cynthia rode over to John's side. Thea tugged his sleeve. "i'll dance with you Your Majesty." Cynthia was quiet but her eyes were filled with hate for the Prince, though only her parents and likely her aunts would know that.

Rallon carefully hid the smile as he looked back at his wife.

Her face was calm and kind, though inside she was nervous. The mere thought of touching John had her insides quivering in disgust, but as her husband said, she had to be charming, sweet, friendly, and demure all at once. When Thea rode up and offered to dance with the man, she laughed and smiled before releasing her husband's loving touch and pressing a kiss to the young girl's forehead.

"My lovely girl, why don't you dance with your brother, in my stead while I enjoy dancing with His Majesty." She wouldn't want the wretched man laying a hand on the girl, noble or not, he was a filthy man, none the less.

All eyes could be felt on her and she placed her hand in his and allowed him to lead the way. The music seemed to get a little louder and her senses all the more acute. His right hand pressed into the low side of her back while his cold touch swallowed her petite and warm hand as he led the way. Her eyes never left his. "I am honored that His Majesty would dance with me."

A smile tugged at the right corner of the man's lips. "Are you sure, given you turned down my proposal for marriage..." Of course he would bring that up. As they danced she caught sight of her husband and found herself longing for his embrace.

Surprisingly enough, she laughed. "Now I know that you have far better taste than to settle on me. I am flattered, all the same." The was a bit of silence and it felt as though he was observing her and trying to find a motive behind her being here.

Rallon stayed close as he carefully moved with his sister, letting her stand on her own feet and lead the movements.

Cynthia moved over to her mother and hid in her skirts, keeping an unhappy eye on John and her mother's back, moving carefully so she wouldn't trip up the dancers.

The Queen smirked having heard Rose's skillful parry of the Prince's snideness.

Rallon lost Thea to a young lordling and found one of his other sister's to dance with, still keeping an eye on the prince, wishing he could tear the little filth's head off.

Rose and Prince John look the perfect picture of poise and etiquette, but a silent feud waged on. When the song ended, Rose smiled and , but saw where His majesty's eyes were looking: The Queen. "If you will excuse me." Gracefully she bowed and headed off in the direction of Her Majesty when one of the girls beat her to it and started up a busy conversation.

Before Rose knew it, a slew of young men were asking to dance, and while etiquette for asking a married woman for a dance called for asking her husband first, she really only wanted to dance with her husband.

"Ever the beauty I have heard of! May I please ask the Lady of York for a dance?" It was an old nobleman and she did not know much about him, but she smiled and obliged. All was well until his hand slid a little too low. After telling him to behave himself once already, she excused herself the second time. "Lord Monkarsh, your hands will surely get you into trouble. " With that she walked off in search of her husband.

Rallon kissed her neck as he took her hand and moved around her, taking her into a slow revolving dance once again.

"Forgive me my love. Your daughter needed to be corralled. She tried to eat the Prince, then that last nobleman. She is now guarding the Queen."

He nodded toward the wolf looking dog who was sitting looking mutinous by the Queen, who was raving over the beautiful animal, stroking her ears and neck.

Rallon chuckled and kissed his wife lightly. "I should also tell you that your cousins and your eldest sisters are off romancing in the gardens. I have been told so no less than eight times by your other sister's. i still say we could just drown the lot and be free of their mess."

A nearby noblewoman blinked at his words and Rallon ignored her.

"That's my little fuzzy princess." Rose said with a smile as she gazed towards the sweet and loyal who seemed more pissed off then distracted by Her Majesty. When Rallon spoke of the girls being wooed in the garden a brighter smile couldn't have formed on Rose's lips.

"You know what that mean, right?" She said ignoring his suggestion of ridding themselves of the girls while her smile sparkled. "We will be having two weddings to tend to. They've had a hellish life, and they need a little peace and some love."

She enjoyed her time with her husband as she danced in his arms. "Obviously, no one can compete with you when it comes to love and affection towards the one you love, but those boys had better come damn well close or they'll be hanging by their sacks in the dungeon." The look on her face did not leave any room to question her seriousness.

He smiled sweetly. "THey are well trained." He nodded to a younger man, perhaps 16 who was sporting a brilliant black eye and a missing tooth.

"That young fool tried to cop a feel and the girl in question only hit him once and still did all that damage. Each of them expects respect and proper attitudes. And the boys are obeying. According to my sisters they expect each boy to be willing to their actions to you, Cynthia and myself. For some reason this seems to intimidate them quite well."

He chuckled as he wnked at Cynthia who gave a long whining note. he shook his head and she humphed resuming her place still unhappy. Of course this sent the Queen and the ladies around her into hysterics as the note had sounded a bit like singing, and they begged her to repeat the performance so of course the wolfish creature refused.

Rallon chuckled. "it would seem your daughter is yet again driving people mad. Speaking of how is her sister?" He gave Rose a gentle bump to her middle. "And her mother?"