For The Union; a fantasy rp {oropherion + dionysus}

[oropherion]

Gavaria had been at war with the kingdom of Esceau for years, their numbers diminishing with hundreds killed in battle each day. The land of Gavaria was starting to look barren and dying as crops were ruined or destroyed, depleting their valuable resources and causing stress among the civilians. The Elven King was hard pressed to keep his people fed and safe, searching for other means to replenish their supplies and pushing their enemy back out of their land. Trade caravans had had difficult time passing through the countries, attacked by bandits or overcome by enemy soldiers. Between the two warring countries was a peaceful, neutral land called Khetis that had managed to avoid all the chaos surrounding it. Alas as the battles worsened, it was beginning to be threatened. The King of Gavaria saw purpose in the Fae's of Khetis, as did the King of Esceau. They both sent letters to the royal family of Khetis, seeking aide or an alliance. Even though the Fae did not wage war or fight, their alliance would prove useful in other ways and the King of Gavaria wished to accomplish this before his enemy did and he lost any advantage he could gain.

Several letters were written and passed between the two kingdoms. It seemed Khetis had no interest in being involved in their war, but the King of Gavaria insisted that though he respected this stand, it would only bring the neutral kingdom pain. War did not discriminate in the end and Khetis would eventually be in the crossfires. It was best they allied with the stronger force now rather than be destroyed by them. Thus far, Gavaria had been managing to overcome Esceau's soldiers and push them back, the normal humans no match for Elvish skill and strategy, but they were resilient and resourceful. It was why Gavaria sought alliance and a promise for a stronger future for their people. It seemed the King of Khetis understood the unfortunate circumstances and agreed to arranging a marriage between their sons. The fact that Fae men could bear children like their women was a reverent and special trait of just the Fae. The King of Gavaria knew his own son had lacked interest in the females of their kin and so thought it would be the perfect union, and create a stronger bloodline in the end. Especially as their numbers dwindled due to the war.

Presently, Gavarian soldiers had been sent to meet and escort the royal family of Khetis to the Elvish palace. They would be honored guests until the wedding ceremony and give their son's time to acclimate to their new situation. Prince Ninimdir had not been pleased by the news. He accepted his fate that his marriage would be arranged, but he did not see the point in marrying him off to a Fae. He could see his father's reasoning, but despite his personal desires, he didn't see tarnishing their bloodline for such a purpose. Nor could he see much purpose in an alliance with a race that refused to fight. His mother had told him it was his age that made him blind to the gains such a marriage would have, telling him he would find out in due time why his father made this bargain. Khetis was a rich land filled with pure, beautiful nature with vegetation and plenty of food and supplies. They also hoped an alliance would bring that sort of prosperity to the dark lands of Gavaria. Even still, Ninimdir wondered how they could not accomplish this another way, but wisely kept his mouth shut as he sat before his vanity mirror letting his mother doll him up for the arrival of their guests.


White and gold was the scheme of his robes, tightly fit against his lithe, tall body with a tall crown set upon his head. His skin was pale and lightly painted with makeup to accentuate his fair features. He looked regal in his uniform and his jewels, but also appeared cold as a statue. His expression was as stony and as serious as one as he followed after his mother through their winding halls built into the mountainside. When they reached the top of the grand stairs leading down into the courtyard, the prince saw the line of soldiers lined up along the path as well as some of the higher class citizens eager to get a glimpse of their guests. "Behave, Nin. They are not accustomed to our ways and certainly not used to our cold halls. Please welcome the prince warmly." The queen pleaded with a small, tight smile as she went to stand beside her husband. Ninimdir fought hard not to roll his eyes as he stood stiffly, waiting to see his new bride.

 

[Dionysus]

War was such a terrible thing, it brought only death, destruction and pain. Yet still, the world was plentiful with conflicts and violence. All except the peaceful oasis of Khetis, a land rich with not golds and jewels put wildlife and plants. The fae were a nonviolent folk, they hardly interacted with the outside world, keeping their small country locked off from the rest of the Kingdoms. Whilst they didn’t engage in fighting, they were not stupid, they knew of how precious their land and people were. With the fae drawing life and energy from the plants their so dearly cared for and let grow, as well as the fact all male fae could also bear children, was something that many wanted to have.

Khetis had been all so fine, until they found themselves caught in the crossfires of war. Two countries on either side of them, the elves of Gavaria and the humans of Esceau. Whilst they themselves were not directly involved, it would only be a matter of time before their country was destroyed. It had been around the time of this realisation, had the letters began, from both sides. It seemed that both the leaders of said country had a rather similar approach to winning the favour of the fae, forming an alliance with a marriage, an everlasting symbol of their union. The Royal Family however had eventually sided with the elves, after all, they were such a powerful race, and they would be back for revenge if Khetis refused.

Ayre could still remember when his parents had told him of the so called ‘great news’, how he was to be wed to a prince from Gavaria, a land in which he himself was not familiar with, only how their numerous victories in battle. Of course, he had refused at first, he would not be ‘sold off like an animal’ he had said. The young prince was rather…naive, he did not consider the benefits a marriage would do. Oh how Ayre had begged and pleaded not to go, after all he had been sheltered by the safety of their little country for so long, to suddenly be torn away from that; Ayre could not bare it.

But not matter how much the young Fae refused, he found himself sat with his mother and father in a carriage headed directly to his new home not even a month later. He had said his goodbyes to his siblings before their departure, some of them far too young to be brought away from home, his parents had said. Ayre’s long, curled, blue hair hung low just above his chest, some parts braided with gold and jewels intertwined, as well as flowers from Khetis, his pointed, drooped ears poking out from the long wisps of hair. A small gold crown sat atop his head, leaves carved into the metal. The corner’s of his eyes had been lightly painted with a golden shimmer and his lips tainted with a red rouge, all to make him more appealing to his future husband his mother had assured him as their servants dressed him. His long robes hugged his frame, the soft silks and floral patterns giving it a more gown like appearance, another custom of the Fae.

The prince had been lost in thought when the carriage came to a halt, Ayre’s eyes widening as he watched his father climb out first and then his mother. Ayre gulped, pausing before composing himself and following after them. Looking up at the grand palace, Ayre felt fear wash over him, the dark colours, the menacing look of the people, it was all so much. His eyes followed along the guards and up a few steps, until they stopped, lingering on the man stood beside the King and Queen - at least who he assumed was the King and Queen. He took one look at the cold glare and in all honesty was debating running and hiding back in their carriage, when all of a sudden their own guards were following behind him as the fae King and Queen began moving. Ayre too followed, though it was reluctantly.

Reaching the top of the small steps, Ayre let his parents speak, he dared not chirp up; almost frightened by the idea. “Ah, it’s an honour,” His father began, a warm smile upon his face as he greeted the two “I am grateful to be able to meet you in person, even more so that you’re interested in a union.” His voice was just as soft as his smile, welcoming yet commanding when needed to be. He turned to his son, who yet again was caught in a trance like state before snapping out of it, looking up at both his groom and the King and Queen. He bowed his head meekly, following in an example of the King. “An honour, that I am able to be your bride…”

 

[oropherion]

The Fae's bright colored attire seemed to stand out against the bleak background of the city. The Elves wore more neutral, woodsy colors, blending into their dark forests and mountains rather than stand out. Only the royal Elvish family seemed to wear some color and even then they were darker colors of blue, green, and purples. Or white and gold in Ninimdir's case, simply for ceremony. As the Fae emerged from the carriage, they received a variety of looks. Most were curious and uncertain, some welcoming, others not. Most were neutral in their acceptance of this merging of races, while Ninimdir himself seemed the most opposed with his icy stare. Yet as the royal family began their ascent up the stairs to approach them, bowing their heads in greeting and speaking as warmly as they could muster, the Elvish prince remembered his manners and bowed at the shoulders in return, albeit stiffly. "The honour is mine." Whether he truly felt that way was left to be determined, but his mother seemed pleased with his words.

King Galion returned the warm smile as he waved his hand to indicate them to follow. "We appreciate you traveling the distance and accepting this alliance. As kings and fathers, our decisions are not easy ones to make. I do think this union will be most beneficial to both our kingdoms." He stated as he held his arm out to his wife before leading their guests into their palace. They would convene in a large sitting room with an array of food and drink had been prepared for them. Servants were already gathering the Fae's belongings to bring to their rooms, having everything set up for their stay. Considering their status, their rooms would be in the opposite halls of the Elvish royals. After the wedding, Ayre would share his room with Ninimdir. The Elven Queen paused as she touched her husband's arm then looked to her son and his bride-to-be. "Nin, why don't you show your lovely bride around his new future home? I'm sure it'll make him more comfortable if he knows his way around the palace and city. Let us discuss the more important matters." She gave a playful chuckle before taking a seat upon a chair beside her husband.

Ninimdir held back a sigh at the suggestion, knowing it was more of an order than a suggestion. The moment he laid eyes on the Fae prince, he felt that the other was already uncomfortable. Gavaria was not what he was expecting or hoping it would be and he wondered how much of nature these Fae's could feel. Could he feel the dying soul of their land? The desperate cry for peace and tranquility to return so it could thrive once more? Instead of being stained with blood and rotting flesh. The Elvish prince dismissed those dark thoughts as he held his arm out to Ayre. "If it so pleases you, I'll show you my home. Your new home." He corrected with a small, wry smirk as he tried to maintain his princely manners. It was hard when he didn't want to pretend to be okay with this arrangement, but he knew he could not disrespect his parents and this betrothal.

 

[Dionysus]

Walking into the palace with his family, he stood whilst his mother and father took a seat at the Elven royal’s suggestion, to which Ayre froze a little. Truth be told, he wasn’t exactly eager to leave his parents side. Childish as it may sound, but he was frightened by this new circumstance and country, he was only soothed by the idea he’d be able to visit his home, though it was the cost of being wed. Still, Ayre raised no such objections at the idea of being shown around. Perhaps he would be proven wrong, that the people here weren’t as terrifying as he thought, or that he’d feel quite at home here. Or maybe he’d be proven right, all the more reason to want to go home. It was a 50/50 chance, and so, he took the others arm and let himself be lead off by Ninimdir. “Of course, thank you.” The fae said, a familiar small smile working its way to his lips.

Walking with Ninimdir, he couldn’t help but feel the tension in the air, the reluctance is both of them as they strolled out of the room. Stepping out of the rather luxurious living room, he caught sight of some of the servants taking his belongings up to a room, where he would presumably stay for their time in Gavaria. He felt a wave of relief wash over him as he realised he wouldn’t have to share a room with his future husband, not yet at least. Ayre needed some time, alone, to adjust to his new home. Though, something about calling it his new home made his skin crawl, he knew it was a rather cruel reaction to have but he couldn’t help himself. Perhaps but was his growing up in such a closed off country that made the idea of leaving such a unusual subject.

The fae, who had been lost in his own thoughts, tried his best to lighten their situation. Even if he wasn’t eager for the wedding, he only need acted that way. Who knows, maybe once they were wed they’d grow fond of each other, even love each other one day. Only time would tell. “The wedding,” Ayre began with “When will the wedding be? I’m beside myself with anticipation.” He hummed, his voice that same soft tone like his father’s. “I find myself already fawning over wedding gown designs, if I’m being truthful.”

 

[oropherion]

This was all just a show really. A grand exclamation that the two kingdoms were uniting for a better cause. There was no love or feelings involved. This may not be the first time such unions were made and it wouldn't be the last, but it felt so cliche and empty. What little advantage it gave them over Escau felt so minuscule in comparison to his life being spent with a Fae he knew nothing about. He supposed their marriage would give them plenty of time to learn as there was no other choice to be made. As against this as he was, he was also loyal to his country and to his parents and would not abandon them for the sake of his own feelings. Giving Ayre a tour of his home felt like a chore, but it would be uncouth of them not to allow the Fae time to adjust to his new home and allow him to be comfortable in his surroundings. It would only reflect negatively on their hospitality.

Ninimindir finally turned his head down to look upon his fiance as he asked about the wedding, doing his best not to show his disinterest out of respect. "It shall be held the beginning of next week. It shall give you and your parents enough time to settle and get prepared. Plus allow those of our people that will be attending to gather. Not including all the decorating, meal preparation, and documents that need to be written up." So much to be done for one simple day. The idea that Ayre was anticipating marrying him seemed unbelievable and the look he gave the Fae said he didn't quite believe him. "I look forward to it if only to be done with this whole blasted affair." He was tired of all the gossip surrounding his engagement, the looks and giggles he received, the murmurs and simply his parents rehashing how important this whole affair was. The sooner the wedding was done with, the better. Though his stark features softened some at the mention of Ayre's gown. "It is only fair a bride should be in love with their gown. After all, you shall be the shining star that day." It was due to Khetis's reluctant agreement that this whole union was possible.

After showing Ayre the main grounds of the castle that he would mostly visit most of all, Ninimindir stopped outside a split hallway. "Is there more you wish to explore? I am sure our parents would not mind me showing you the city itself if you wish. Or there is a hot springs I can show you. Or if you are tired I can lead you back to your room for you to rest."

 

[Dionysus]

The fae prince froze, beginning of next week? Then it was only a few days before he’d be wed, he’d become bride to a man he hardly knew, these palace walls would become his home. Maybe things wouldn’t be so bad, maybe the two would one day fall in love. Still, he couldn’t rely on maybes and ifs, couldn’t lower his guard only to be torn down.

Ayre’s frightened expression softened for a moment at that comment, a shining star for his special day? It was such a shame though he hardly wanted that day, or rather, he wanted it to be with someone he truly loved. He’d always thought he’d end up meeting someone of his own himself, but it seemed as royalty, even love could be profited off of and marriage was merely about business. That frightened expression morphed into sadness at that thought, all the gowns, makeup, jewels and titles they could throw upon him wouldn’t fix the fact he didn’t want this. Still, he couldn’t let it appear that way, even though he was doing a rather terrible job at hiding it. “Thank you. I’m glad you think so, I think it would be a good idea to bring some of my own culture to the wedding too…to
show this wonderful new union.” The fae beamed, turning his head for a moment to gaze upon his soon to be husband before lowering it again.

He was silent for a few moments after, pondering Ninimdir’s question. “Perhaps a tour of the city would be nice, and then to relax afterwards the hot springs sounds like a perfect idea. If it pleases you.” Ayre smiled, then perhaps he could explore his new room. Well, temporary room, before he’d be expected to share a bed and room with Ninimdir. “Thank you of course for the offer too, to get a tour around the city from the prince himself, it’s an honour…” Ayre trailed off, he wasn’t sure how to address him. Prince, fiancé, Ninimdir? He held his head back down, hands folded over one another as he fumbled with them rather nervously

 

[oropherion]

Ninimdir saw a myriad of emotions playing across Ayre's face, but chose not to comment on it. Time was flying fast and their freedom was slowly coming to an end. It was understandable to feel a mix of emotions over the subject, the elf prince just did a better job at hiding it himself. There wasn't no point in getting upset over it now and his fiance was with him now so to try and dissuade the situation was pointless. Ayre's cheerful comment of intertwining their cultures into the wedding had him nodding briefly. "It would be in good faith to show both our people our interest in the union if both our cultures were brought to the wedding. It is the whole point of it, best make it a good show." He agreed solemnly, though he felt their cultures were very different. One was accustomed to war and strife while the other was of peace and tranquility. How the two could mix, he wasn't sure, but he supposed only time would tell how the influences of both of their lands would have on each other.

As the Fae prince agreed upon a tour of the city before he chose to relax, Ninimdir nodded as he reached out to grab one of Ayre's nervous, fumbling hands. "Be at ease, prince. You are welcome here despite the tensions in our lands. The city isn't as cold and awful as it appears." He assured, a strange motion for the normally cold prince, but he couldn't have his fiance appearing stiff and afraid or even uncomfortable as he led him around. His parents would certainly be displeased if he ignored his fiance's feelings throughout this whole exchange, whether he actually cared or not. "It is for the best you get comfortable with the city. You aren't a prisoner to our keep, you can go where you please, even as my wife. As long as you understand where you need to be during your duties, you are not beholden to anything beyond those." He remarked as he led them from the dark, winding tunnels of the cavern palace to the city streets without.

Though Gavaria was not as vibrant as Khetis, there was at least some green and foliage present among the dark homes and shops littering the cobblestone streets. Merchants were out, sitting behind their carts, a variety of vegetables, fruits, and other wares on display. The upper district was clearly the higher class and the lower they went, the clearer it became that those of the lower class were struggling. They did not have the same amount of wares available and quality was not nearly as great. The people looked thin and almost poorly themselves though they still stood straight and with pride. "This war has destroyed a lot of our own crops. Trade has become far more difficult. We aren't able to get half the goods we were and keeping our people fed has become difficult." Ninimdir explained as he looked around with a frown. Even if there had always been a difference between the poor and higher class, even the poor had been better off than this.