Retribution Sought with Royal Blood (Lady Bloody Ava & Primeval Exile)

[Lady Bloody Ava]

A colossal fortress stood imposingly on the horizon, its turrets high and clear and walls of stone brick held together by mud and mortar making up the majority of its architecture. With thick walls and few windows, this structure could hold its own. Point tipped palisades encased the structure providing additional defense and lending a silent air of caution to those who approached with any foul intent. The imposing and vast structure housed the brother of the High King Wilhelm Conradin the merciful, Geoffrey Conradin Duke of Norfolk. Though he was merely the second son of the previous King the active title and lands sated his desire for power and recognition. It also gave the man an active interest in the well being of the realm under his eldest brother's reign. His wife, Meredith Conradin, gave birth to a set of gorgeous twin daughters. While Geoffrey could be just as ruthless as his King brother, he held a soft spot for the family. To not have a son was disappointing, but his daughters were his pride and joy, thus he only did what was best for them even if they did not like it.

"But father are you mad!?" The gorgeous voice rung clear through the tapestry-lined walls of their home. Soon to follow was a swift 'clap' for a reply. Green eyes shimmered in awe as their owner gazed with soft pink lips agape at the lavishly dressed bearded male that had just slapped his precious daughter. The girl's plentiful auburn tresses were braided, knotted, and twisted back into an intricate headpiece complete with pearls and a simple weaving of ribbon. Her natural porcelain skin was picturesque, save for the eye-catching red handprint displayed on her left cheek. "Think before you speak another word, my child, for it may very well be your last." Visibly taken aback the young lady did as she was told. "You agreed to an arranged marriage between Arabella and Prince Edwin, our cousin?" The man with the hefty fur-trimmed cloak draped about his shoulders merely nodded. "But why?"

"You need not worry your pretty little head. Bella agreed to the arrangement. It is for the better. This family is a priority or are you jealous, Gabriella?" As her head had been held down, at these words she met her father's gaze with shock.

"No Father. Certainly not." There was no doubt that she too was planned to be married merely for the benefits it would bring their family, but to be married with a family member. The thought nearly had her stomach churning. "Is this necessary though? Why not ask a neighboring kingdom?"

This was the same question that Geoffrey had asked his brother. Why not expand trade and further grow in power? Trust. His brother's trust was hard to gain and harder to keep. When the arrangement was proposed there was hesitancy on his part, but he had two daughters to protect. Protection could get no stronger beneath his brother's wing and that of the future King. "He has his reasons. He picked Arabella. Your tongue slips too often. Your sister is watchful and calculating. Silence can be deadly and appearance can be everything to the people. Support your sister. The carriage is getting ready. I'm off to speak with my brother. I'll pass your concern on to your sister. I'm sure it will make her smile." A rather large thick hand weighed itself down upon her straight and tidy tresses before a kiss was pressed to the lady's forehead and the two parted ways.
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A sigh escaped parted lips as emerald eyes gazed into the garden below her balcony. Another strikingly beautiful auburn-haired beauty with her locks parted in two braids from the nape of her neck and brought around to the front of her head where they were tied together. This formed a halo of the thick braid with a light blue ribbon interwoven amongst the plaits and her remaining locks cascaded down to her waist. "My lady...." An ebony haired lady spoke from behind. "His Majesty requests your audience in the Great Hall. Prince Edwin has been summoned as well." With one last sigh, soft fingers gathered the abundant material of her lovely dress and walked in the designated direction. Though big, she had managed to memorize where the more important rooms were by now.

Eyes often lingered on the girl. A heart-shaped neckline was flattering to the woman with a chest well defined, but not overly so. A smile did tug at the corner of her lips at the thought of Edwin. He was fun. Though they maintained the appearance of royalty, he allowed her freedom in his company. Of so it felt. The soft material of the gown hugged in all the right places and flooded down to obscure and leave lovely legs to the imagination.

"Lady Arabella Conradin!" Her name was announced as the doors to the Great Hall opened. Two sterdy wooden room length tables sat on either side of the room for knights to eat at while atop a dozen wide steps at the vible back of the hall sat a much smaller and ornate table with four high back chairs meant for people of importance and a few other non-high back chairs for important guests. Nobility was ground into the girl and second nature. As a woman befitting her title she performed a polite curtsy and smiled softly. "Your Majesty beckoned me?"

 

[Primeval_Exile]

The ancient realm of Himilrad has known the leadership of the Conradin family for centuries. High King Wilhelm's great great grandfather became the first High King when he slew Gunther the Mad, the emperor of the confederated volk states. The very castle Edwin was raised in once was home to the demonic tyrant who's shadow cast gloom over the hinterlands. Brungerburg castle has never been sieged in all it's existence with its towering smooth stone walls guarded by watchful towers, to the clever location of atop a hill with it's back to the sea. Invaders would have to march uphill coming from a single direction. Within the metropolis within there was great gardens and farms to sustain the populace for a time should they ever be blockaded from supplies. In other words, starving Brungerburg out was no easy task.
Edwin had the great privilege and heavy responsibility of being the first born son of the High King. All his life his father groomed him to one day take his place and carry on the continued success of the family line and the realm itself, keeping the status quo. Edwin's mother Brunhilda died during childbirth leaving him to be raised by a wet-nurse who became more or less his mother. Her gentle attitude and compassion for others left a greater impact upon Edwin than his distant and calculating father who lived in a world of paranoia and hungry for expansion of power. Where his father the King saw enemies everywhere, Edwin saw the world in a much different light. Rather than have the volk of his realm serve him, Edwin planned to instead serve the volk or people who's hard work and sacrifices made it possible for him to live the life he had.

This was the morning Edwin would formerly meet Arabella Conradin as his future betrothed. It was only a few seasons ago they celebrated the end of winter in these halls along with the entire extended family. Ever since they were children they were best of friends, along with her twin Gabriella. When his father informed him of the decision that Arabella was to be promised to him, it was a strange sensation. Surely she had developed into a lovely woman but he hadn't spent much time thinking of her in that way. Still, duty bound and willing to serve the interests of the realm Edwin obeyed the wishes of his King.
Brushing his shortlength straw colored hair with a thin silver comb before his mirror, the prince smiled an awkward cheesy grin inspecting the whiteness of his teeth. His strong jawline and ice blue eyes were strikingly handsome, even to the scar on his chin. Underneath the fine white tunic he wore was an athletic body developed from years of fencing tutoring as well as archery training ever since he was but a boy. The fancy blue hose he wore with the luxuriously fur padded leather boots seemed to tie in nicely with his navy blue jerkin embroidered with gold.

" For the sake of the realm, it is your duty to marry your cousin. The future of our kingdom depends on you." He spoke those words staring at himself in the mirror as if to make light of the situation while psyching himself up for it, pushing away any feelings of discomfort for the notion. With a forced chuckle he exited his chambers to meet his father in the main hall. Torches light the way through the stone passages . Armed guards were stationed everywhere this deep in the keep who came from lines of guardsman who devoted their lives to protect the royal family. Edwin looked into their eyes and nodded to them, acknowledging them while he passed them by rather than regarding them as ornamental furniture like some others do.

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High King Wilhelm Conradin sat upon the white marble throne rattling his fingers upon the armrests, waiting for the other parties to arrive. Above his head on the peak of the throne was the Gunther the Mad's skull encased in amber. It served as a reminder to all who gazed upon it why the Conradin's rule and how they came to be. Armed guardsman littered the hall and flanked the king. They stoically stood at attention dressed in fine glittering armor with a blue tabard featuring the Conradin coat of arms, a golden skull and cross swords. His son the Prince soon made his appearance stopping at his side and bowing to his King.

" Ah Edwin my son, you are here. Good. " The king smiled and looked up at his son who simply nodded. Their relationship was always formal, after all Edwin's father was his King first and foremost. " There is a saying , that we must keep our friends close, and our foes closer. " Wilhelm's grey eyes settled onto the Prince while he spoke plainly to him. At that moment the King looked very old, and tired, however there was still storm clouds brewing in those eyes with the ever threat of lightning. " When you are King, you will come to realize everyone is a potential foe. Everyone. No matter how well you treat your subjects or not, someone will always covet what you are and what you have. Especially those nearest to you. " He sighed softly looking off to the Heavy iron braced oak doors that would soon open to reveal the invited party. " I made this decision because I fear my brother covets this throne. Even being a Duke the highest level of nobility second only to royalty, a man cannot help but want more especially if its so close one can taste it. Bringing him into our court on a formal note will give him greater access to the governing of this realm. You marrying his daughter provides him with a son that is on the path to the highest office in our land, cementing his legacy. "

Edwin spoke plainly " I understand father. As always I am prepared to serve the realm in whatever capacity I can to the best of my ability. I understand your reasoning and I submit myself to your greater wisdom of such things."
The prince had a way with words, eloquently obeying and praise has carried him far with the King. Rarely has he ever spoke his mind in earnest. In his lifetime that lead to many a death sentence for others. Wilhelm the Merciful indeed.

The King went on " Besides, at least you two have always gotten on well. I think together you two will find its a perfect match. Not to mention she is quite exquisite upon the eyes. It could have been much worse. Would you have rather married the homely daughter of the Southern Principality of Vaegir? " Wilhelm gave Edwin a knowing grin and chuckled softly. " All you need to do is give us a son. The rest will fall into place."

It was then Lady Arabella and Duke Geoffrey entered the hall escorted by the Dukes own guard. King Wilhelm stood up and beckoned to them.

" Lady Arabella Conradin! " The king met his brothers gaze and bowed his head graciously. " Brother. Approach the throne."

Edwin looked upon Arabella for the first time regarding her as a woman rather than the cousin he caused mischief with as a boy. She was absolutely beautiful. The way her hair was braided to the form complimenting dress she wore Edwin felt something biologically stir in him that hadn't before. Shaking such thoughts away and burying them, he met her gaze and smiled knowingly, shrugging his shoulders slightly in a way neither of the fathers noticed. With a simple look they understood each other as they always have. It communicated that he too was helpless in this affair, his warm smile indicating it was going to be alright. He loved Arabella , and would do everything he could to make her feel safe and comfortable. Thats the one thing about their relationship that will never change, that he will look after her and her sister and keep them safe.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Geoffrey smiled lightly and bowed his head to his King brother out of respect before placing a guiding hand upon his lovely daughter's back and accepting the invitation to approach. At her father's touch, Arabella looked at her well-dressed father and accepted his guidance. "Prince Edwin." How could she not acknowledge her dear friend and their awkward arrangement in a way that only he would notice? If there was one thing about their family's genes that could seldom be questioned, it was that the entire family was good looking. Edwin was no exception. Those eyes. Oh, how many times had she openly threatened to gouge those eyes out and keep them as lovely bobbles in her pocket? During her short time here she caught sight of her friend training beneath the sun amongst the knights. At one point the sweat was so heavy that he disrobed himself from the waist on up. Bella would be lying to herself if she said that she didn't find him to be the perfect piece of meat before a lioness. It was no wonder a few women lingered upon the opposite balcony openly swooning over him. With a short laugh and a brief roll of her eyes, she was on her way to her complete studies for that day.

"Brother." Geoffry smiled and stood across from his brother separated by an intricately carved wooden table. "Let me look at you, Prince Edwin." Warm hazel eyes spoke volumes. "Looking like a true future king, what do you say Arabella?" The lax smile upon her lips grew to show her pearly whites and an added sparkle in her eyes showed her charming demeanor. "What is there to say, father? He is kind, smart, highly perceptive, and powerful. Just as the Conradin family should be." The girl chose her words rather carefully. Despite the love of the people for their king, Bella knew her uncle. She knew to tip the scales in her favor. She knew that trust was the key. Not that there was any reason not to trust the bright beautiful girl, but she aired on the side of caution.

"She agreed to the arrangements without hesitation. Bella knows what is important to this family and prioritizes the kingdom itself and respects her King and this family to an immeasurable degree." The core of Bella's being squirmed at her father's praise. The man really could lay it on thick. The agreement had been made and she was always happy when she made him happy but to be rid of this stifling environment and have a moment of privacy to talk with Edwin would have been so welcomed. The Conradin Sisters were well versed in all area. As wealthy women from nobility, they successfully rose to social and political prominence at a rather young age. With education rarely extended to noblewomen, Bella and Gabby exceeded expectations. A smart woman often appeared more troublesome to suitors, but they were the daughters of the Duke. Both girls highly educated in subjects such as history, astronomy, arithmetic, trained in a wide variety of games, and well-versed in a number of languages including Latin and had a talent for music and literature.

Despite such things, it was ground into them that their role as wives would be bearing children, wifely duties, and managing their castle grounds. It was said that no man would ever want a woman smarter than him. Needless to say that both girls were not stupid. "Your Highness, may I make one humble request?" Arabella politely asked. "When we are finished here, may I request Prince Edwin, my groom, to give me a tour? I've managed to find a few places with the assistance of the servants. Your home is vast and gorgeous." There was so much to talk to Edwin about. Soon she would send a missive to her sister. She was told not to tell her sister. Despite being twins each girl still had a unique personality. Gabriella had punched her fair share of perverted men, while Arabella played dirty in a stealthy manner that made it hard to prove that the lovely girl had done anything at all. Geoffry had questions for his brother about those who opposed this arrangement, but the young ones need not be bothered with the matter. If Edwin was free, they had to make a break for somewhere away from prying ears.

 

[Primeval_Exile]

Prince Edwin outranked his uncle in stature, were this more than a small family gathering he would have corrected him. Not because he enjoyed the notion , but a royal must keep their respect intact if they ever expect anyone to obey them. However times like this it was known Edwin preferred as less formality as possible, however under the watchful gaze of his father things always felt stiff . When Bella spoke her praise he could not help but attempt to fight back a smile. He knew what she was doing, telling his father exactly what he needed to hear so his lethal paranoia wasn't triggered. The best policy with King Wilhelm was prevention, because once the notion of mistrust began to form like a wild weed it grew and grew with no telling to what end. When Arabella made her request Edwin chimed in as well .
" It would be beneficial to show my bride the castle grounds to hasten her acclimation father." His eyes met hers again, their faces straight but both could clearly feel the anxiety for privacy at this moment. The King smiled at his only son and nodded his head towards the chamber doors.
" You have my leave, I am sure you two have much discuss. " His facial expression took a more serious tone as he looked to Geoffrey " As do we. Come brother, we have much to discuss".
Edwin bowed his head to both gentleman " Father, Uncle , until the morrow." Without hesitation he took Arabella by the land and made as swift as an exit as one could while remaining in proper form resisting the urge to outright run.
" It's so stuffy in the keep today Bella, why don't we take a walk in the castle garden?" Fresh air and away from eavesdroppers and prying eyes. With fingers intertwined he lead her through the lit halls towards a side exit way. Bright sunlight washed over them as Edwin pushed open the heavy oak door leading to a stone staircase down to the gardens. Taking the stairs slowly thinking of her flowing dress, her cousin the prince let her use his hand to steady herself as they descended.

" Fine mess we've gotten into this time eh? I suppose it could have been worse. You basically hit the jackpot. " It was so surreal knowing she now belonged to him. The way he looked at her now changed from someone that might as well been a sibling to viewing her for what she was, an attractive woman with a mind twice as sharp his his own. Or did he always feel this way and it was repressed for normalcy sake? Edwin was probably one of the few men who didn't mind his other half was very sharp. He had no desire to rule over here, he had an entire realm for that. Besides spending the rest of his life with someone dull and basic seemed rather boring anyway. Every time she smiled at him it was infectious from ear to ear. They had so much history having spent the best part of their lives together. " You look absolutely breath taking my dear Arabella". It was the first time he ever used -my- and her name in the same breath. He drank in her lovely visage for a moment when they reached the bottom of the stairs. " Here we are..the Königlicher Garten" Flowers were in full bloom. Every type of wildflower native to the realm was here in perfect form. Towering pine trees dotted the garden along with lush manicured blue grass. It was more like a large park with its own ecosystem. Bee's bumbled by working diligently to collect pollen while birds sang from their nests. Edwin not realizing he was still holding her hand in his walked with her towards the heart of it all, away fro, the gardeners tending to the gardens.

" What do you think about all this? I mean really..you can always speak plainly with me Bella, you know that. That will never change."A very tame doe and her fawns approached the couple sniffing at their pockets without fear and a heavy sense of entitlement. " Oh wait..here.." He fumbled into the pocket of his overcoat and placed some carrots into her hands and stepped back. " Go ahead." He said with a bemused grin. " She won't leave us alone until we have bribed her. " The doe's nostrils tickled Arabella's hands as she and her babies surrounded her looking for the payout. Edwin watched the display feeling genuinely happy at this moment.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

The ball of tension within the center of her being lessened as Edwin backed up her request and even more so when her Uncle agreed. While she was curious as to what her uncle and father had to discuss, she preferred escaping with Edwin. "You've read my mind." She uttered to his suggestion of escaping to the garden. With fingers laced together, she followed at his side until they finally reached their destination. The sun hung high in the air and the air was crisp and a much better alternative to the stifling walls of her new home. To any onlooker, it would appear that both their Prince and the Lady were more than compatible and made for a very good looking couple. Gem-colored eyes gazed at the gorgeous sight of there surrounding while her hand remained laced with that of her cousin's. That sinfully sweet smile blossomed on her lips and was followed with a smile as he spoke of her hitting the jackpot.

"Are you sure it isn't the other way around?" She teased. Their footsteps were no longer hastened and she relaxed and enjoyed the flowers and sound of the birds chirping. "Thank you. You look rather handsome yourself, Edwin." It was true. She was one to speak her mind, in the right company. It almost felt natural to hold his hand and when her eyes spotted the doe and fawns the lovely Lady was silently besotted at the precious sight. "They are so adorable." Bella sighed as she was handed the carrots. The noblewoman sat upon her knees with her dress surrounding her like a fabric saucer. It appeared like something out of a fairytale as she fed the doe and the fawn with a never-ending smile. Remembering his question she easily replied. "I know that I can be myself around you, Edwin. If it were any other person I would not have been so willing to accept." The wind caressed at her loose locks and tickled the young lady that sat on the lush grass and watched the doe lead her fawn away after their meal.

"Could you imagine if Gabriella was offered up? She would have been furious. Not that she doesn't like you, but you're our cousin." They knew each other from their youngest years of childhood. Edwin always helped her out of binds just as she would lend him a hand. "Remember when the foreign noble's son came along and was constantly hitting on me and Gabby? We were only seven. You chased him off and I don't know what else you did but he never did bother us for the remainder of his visit." It was a lovely memory. "As for what I think... I think your father will not be satisfied until I give you an heir and should I not succeed... Gabriella." There was no dancing around the topic at hand when it came to them. "It is what it is. You nor I can refuse and I'd rather Gabriella not be dragged into this. I can at least be grateful that it is you." A genuine and humble smile lingered upon those soft lips as she looked at Edwin with appreciation. "We have a wedding and a night of consummation to get through." Again she teased him with a wicked sweet smile before standing up and resing the soft palm of one hand against one of his cheeks. "I'd rather wed a friend than a stranger. How about you? Is this awkward for you?" She questioned before taking her hand back.
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Geoffry sat across from his brother and started on a nice tankard of ale before sitting back and looking his King brother in the eye. "Do we have a date for the wedding?" He started off. It was hard for the Duke to have a daughter wedding to another family member, but it made it easier that he had two bright and beautiful daughters. Both were brilliant and gorgeous. One was tactful and the other wore her confidence on her sleeve. He wanted to give his daughters the best life possible. Arabella was given a night to think about it and when asked why she agreed, she provided ample reasons why it benefitted the family in the long run. Pros were weighed against cons and his lovely daughter took the weight off of his shoulders.

"The Lanolyt family is subtly, though adamantly against this. A little birdy told me the head of the family made negotiations and partnership with other powerful noblemen under the assumption that you would have Prince Edwin marry that daughter of his." There was no doubt that his brother knew about this, but what was he going to do. The Lanolyts had their hand in my important matters and were favored my very important people. They could pose a slight threat should they try.

 

[Primeval_Exile]

Wilhelm led Geoffrey to a door behind the skull throne which led to a stone staircase leading up to another floor. Four guards in full plate wielding halberds were at attention with such discipline one might think they were statues. " The Lanolyt family is having some problems of their own right now, which is part of the reason they desperately need an alliance with us. Have you heard of the Waldleute or forest folk? Savages who dwell in the dark forest north of Lanolyt lands. We don't know much about them except they kill indiscriminately anyone who is not them. Their motivations have always been unclear because they never take anything of value. Just lives, sometimes even kidnapping women or children. My spies in their lands report the Wald folk are kicking their asses right now. An entire settlement that was built too close to the forest was wiped out to the last man. Nothing was taken. Just a ghost town now. "

Atop the stairs was the entrance to Wilhelm's war room. Decorated on the walls were trophies of successful hunts. Numerous deer, a stuffed grizzly bear stood on its hind legs in the corner. Tiger and lion pelts decorated the walls. The preserved head of a bull elephant loomed over the huge table centered in the room, an exotic piece taken from the eastern lands across the sea. Wilhelm lit some candles and torches, waved Geoffrey over to the table and laid a map out upon its surface. He pointed to the forests named Wald Der Dunkelheit. " Our trade even has been disrupted along the river that flows under the Rücken Peaks. We believe its the Wald folk because the barges have been found intact with their goods still on board. All crew members dead. We had to stop trade temporarily as our merchant guild was losing too much investments. This obviously has hurt our bottom line, however the solution we came up with for now was to ship our goods north to the delta lands and sell to the confederacy of city states there as a middleman who peddles the goods south. We lost revenue this way but its better then operating at a loss. " A pretty young servant girl, no older than 19 appeared from seemingly no wear pouring the gentleman a goblet of wine. She kept her eyes low and said nothing. The King pinched her ass when she departed with the pitcher only to reemerge to light the fireplace. She was absolutely silent in her work that the talking men probably didn't notice when she left. Wilhelm chuckled at his younger brother " Picked that one up on her eighteenth birthday. I saw her while passing by the village of Red Lake to the south east. I knew I had to have her, so I invoked the ancient law that the King can claim any woman of rightful age. The family was given a generous sum of groschen despite the fact I was under no obligation to do so. Peasants probably pissed it away on frivolous things. "
Wilhelm drank deeply from his cup and stared back to the map. " Back to the Lanoylts, they won't admit they need our help, they have suffered from the blocked trade access as well, more so than we have. However I find their family to be rather detestable and I would sooner wait for their collapse so we can simply annex them instead. " Now the Kings gray eyes were fierce looking into Geoffrey's eyes. Wilhelm was incredibly intimidating at that moment , no doubt even to his brother. " What other families support the Lanolyts? Has your birdie hinted at a developing plot? Because if so perhaps we should remind them just who is the High King of all of Himilrad."

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As Arabella's hand withdrew from Edwin's cheek his hand caught hers and pressed it back against the side of his face. Warm radiant energy flowed through both of them through their gaze like two souls caressing each other. It was a look unmistakably of love for his cousin. Deep, affectionate admiration that lingered beneath the surface perhaps since the beginning. He smiled sweetly at her and spoke " I beat him with a wooden sword because he had no business taking you from me. You've always been mine." He released her hand to wrap his arms around her shapely waist and draw her against his chest. His soft lips found hers. He kissed her. The soft warmth of their mouths together sent a surge of thrill through his body that was almost too intense to process as over a decade of hidden feelings burst like a failing dam whilst holding her tightly against him. He broke the kiss as shock of what he has just done processed quickly through his mind, eyes fluttering open to gauge her reaction. The sounds of the garden no longer registered at that moment while he gazed into the eyes of his beloved cousin and fiancé.

" I love you "

The dammed up emotions that had now become a torrent of release spilled those words that were always there, always lingered deep down ever since they first met as children. Perhaps it was cruel fate or a stroke of luck these soul mates were related, but nothing stood in the way of it now. The future for them together looked bright. " You will give me a son. We won't stop trying until you do." Was that a playful naughty smile he gave her? Moving from their first kiss and intimate contact to openly flirting, the nature of their relationship now has crossed into the realm of lovers, given she accepts him. If this act was sick, Edwin showed no intention of wanting to be -well- at this moment.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Bella had seen glimpses of that look in her beloved friend's eyes before. It flickered it the past, but it never lingered long enough to keep her attention back then. Now... now it sent a shiver to the very center of her being. Where once sat lax lips now sat a growing smile at his admission. It sounded like something he would do, but something did click in her mind. As her hand was relinquished she did not see what had come next. For the longest of second her heart seemed to stop in time. Was this actually happening? Edwin was kissing Arabella in the lovely garden of his home. The woman's soft chest pressed against his firm muscular one as her very breath was stolen. Even more shocking were his words. What was she to say? She always loved him because he was family, the sweetest as well. Was there a difference between how she loved him before and how she loved him now? Perhaps not.

"I love you too Edwin." She smiled and listened as he spoke those reassuring words that also made her laugh. "Oh I have no doubt that you will try until we succeed, but answer me this. What if I were Gabriella? Would you have done the same?" Seldom could tell the sisters apart. Not that they dressed all the same, but each girl had a unique personality that only those close to them would notice. How cold Edwin say that he loved her and not Gabriella? When he chased that boy off was it for both of them equally? Did he mean that they both belonged to him? Soft fingers laced themselves with his as she patiently waited for a response.
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Even Geoffry held a slight fear of his brother. More so than he cares to admit. The man was mad, but he was King. Often he feared for his brother in silence. The man was cunning and very tactful. The lair of the castle was a little different than when their father once ruled, but it held the same air about it. He took a seat and relaxed with a sigh before listening. "The forest folk? Fuckin' savages." He replied after going over a few tales in his mind. From his brother's next few words, the tales were true. "As far as the Lanolyts go I've got no details. I've got an ear out though, but they're desperate. When it comes to that family, they've got no problems getting their hands dirty. They literally go by the phrase 'desperate times call for desperate measures.'" Geoffry barely noticed the girl after her first appearance. He was smitten with his wife so seldom few women held his eye. "I have a feeling that someone is going to do something at the wedding. If we do this, we may need to do it sooner rather than later."

 

[Primeval_Exile]

Wilhelm had that odd look in his eye for a brief thousand yard stare. It was the look of a predator who often made the decision if someone else was food or not. He settled his weight into a chair across from his brother as his eyes seemingly returned to reality, the gears moving in his gaze rather quickly.
" We'll need some time to prepare, we need a proper celebration with all the pomp and ceremony involved. Word will have to be sent out across the Kingdom as I'm sure Edwin will want to invite literally everyone. He loves his people." He signed working out the last equations in his head balancing gods knows how many variables at that moment. " A week will be plenty of time to have everything in place. You're daughter will move in to the castle immediately not only so she can acclimate that much faster but also so she will be under our protection. " Wilhelm basically just declared Geoffrey's daughter was now his to care for.
" Meredith and yourself along with Gabriella will have permanent quarters here from now on. I will assign you a personal adjutant if you like or you may use one of your own. I'll give you a choice dear brother I've never given any other. As the lines between our realms fizzle out..You may keep your own colors and standards, but my colors must be raised above yours. Are we clear? " He drank from his cup and looked into the fire. " You are currently the third most powerful man in the world once our children are married. In return , our resources and military might are at your disposal. Whatever your desire it will be done."

The fire continued to crackle, casting an eerie glow off all the dead animals in the room. " What of Gabriella? Have you come up with a plan for her? If some reason Arabella could not conceive she would have been my next pick. Almost suggested you just give both of them to Edwin. But perhaps theres a more gainful decision. Fuck the Lanolyts. Thoughts?" The King loosened up with wine certainly showed some of his side he kept under the surface when dealing with public matters. The man was literally quite mad.

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Edwin considered her question still holding her fingers laced in his. He thought deeply on the past and the present..searched his feelings, and confirmed what Arabella already knew, however it was the truth.

" I love both of you. I always have, always will. " He left it at that, feeling no need to delve deeper into detail unless it was pried out of him. The subtle answer was there, and its implications. Edwin was no liar, but he was treading carefully so not to upset Bella or make her believe his feelings about her were not genuine.
It was true Bella was hand picked for him. If it was a choice between the two sisters for Edwin to make?

He would have taken both of them equally.

His eyes searched hers waiting tentatively for her response.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Bella knew the answer but..."Your honesty is refreshing. At least I know that you'll be just as charming to Gabriella, should I fail." A soft and reassuring kiss was pressed to his lips before she tugged at his hand and smiled his way. "Come, you truly do owe me a tour. It's been a while since I've been here and not been limited to a certain area." Those emerald eyes held a spark and a dare at the same time. Daring him to tease and come at her. To pry her open and get to know her all the more. Pass the knowledge of a cousin.
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Geoffrey listened to his brother and watched the look in his eyes until he could no longer an turned his eyes to look upon the flames beneath the mantle. A week was quick enough and the kingdom loved their King and Prince so they would love to celebrate the union. Arabella could be in no safer hands, this was reassuring. "I'll take you up on your offer of an adjutant and brother... it goes without saying that I am a more than willing pawn for you. I am an extension of you. I would put myself on the front lines if you declared war. You are important. I am the Duke, by declaration of our father before his passing. What I am saying is yes, brother, your colors fly above my own, as they always should. Pardon me, but brother it is an odd request because all know that this family is my utmost priority. My daughter is safe and should Bella fail in producing an heir, we have Gabriella. You've never steered this family wrong and by offering my daughters I only ask that you protect this family, which you have done. I've no doubt that if one fails, then the other will prevail. God forbid, but childbirth is risky. Arabella may die. There is always a risk. My daughter is confident and hopefully, it carries on." Geoffrey down the contents of the tankard that he had neglected all this time and he liquid arrows erased the rest of his nerves.

"Fuck the Lanolyts. Let them die out."
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Gabriella sat with her other at the table as the two dined in silence. Meredith knew her daughter like the back of her hand. She told Geoffrey to let Gabriella in on the news about her sister's arranged marriage and, as always, she was right. Meredith knew that Wilhelm's orders were not to be questioned, but it was a rather odd request. "Gabriella... talk to me, child." Emerald eyes look down the lengthy wooden table to her mother. The woman was a gem all her own. The Lady was the eldest daughter of the Guthren family. Smart and beautify with a grace that few could replicate.

"Mother... this arrangement between Edwin and Arabella makes me feel uneasy. I do not envy Bella, far from it. I am scared for her." The hazel-eyed Lady smiled and placed her spoon down to give her daughter her undivided attention.

"Dear, your sister agreed. She loves you and accepted her fate. It could be worse." It truly could be. They could be wed to someone worse off. Someone with no care for their well being. At least with Edwin, her sister was safe. Gabriella knew that her mother was right, but what was with this feeling of disgust. It wasn't like he was their brother.

"Thank you, mother. If you'll excuse me I'm going to take a much-needed bath and get ready for the evening." With a nod of her mother's head, the girl was dismissed. Along the way to her quarters, something detoured the beautiful girl to land in the garden. It wasn't as large as where Arabella was, but it was beautiful. Both girls had a hand in planting some of the flowers. Guards were stationed here and there, but here was where one could have the most privacy. The modest emerald gown brought out the matching hue of her eyes. Her hairstyle just as complicated as ever and up with pearl-tipped pins keeping it in place. She had to wait until her father's return before she could visit her sister.

The very thought of the wedding day sickened her. The wedding night! Gabriella would trade places with her sister in a heartbeat, but was it for the right reasons? "This is mad!" She cried out before walking off to her chambers and throwing herself face first onto the plush surface of her ornate bed and laid there to clear her mind.

 

[Primeval_Exile]

Edwin's ice blue eyes fluttered for a moment after the tender kiss she gave him before she tugged at his hand with a come hither stare. With the thrill of excitement freshly coursing through his anatomy he could not refuse. Words escaped him at that second, all he could do was smile ear to ear and took the cue to take the lead whilst they bonded on the new frontier of intimacy in their relationship. He lead her through the trees and talked about all the mischief he got in to as a lone child growing up here. This place was his escape often were he would hide much to his fathers displeasure. When they reached the high stone wall barrier of the garden there was steps leading up to the cat walk which had a terrific view of the hub of the city. Music could be heard playing down below as well as the excited sounds of a crowd letting loose and having fun. Vines and moss that grew along the garden walls were routinely cleared on this steps but Edwin knew
them to be occasionally slippery, so he took care ascending with his bride, grasping her hand. The view on the catwalk was pretty impressive. A stone seating
area was set so nobility could enjoy meals or discussions while viewing the city but not outright visible themselves. The entire city was alive as a minstrel band was in full swing. Scores of the common folk were arm in arm dancing their cares away with onlookers clapping their hands to the beat. A taste of the celebration to come as the pending announcement of the wedding loomed closer. Edwin placed his hands upon the smooth stone railing and looked upon the merry folk, his visage showing his pleasure at seeing so much joy. " These are your people now my sweet Bella. Together we will ensure their bellies remain full and their spirits lifted. After all...it is not the people who serve us, but rather we serve them." Striking contrast to his fathers style of ruling with an generous iron fist, only time will tell how effective it shall be. " What do you think of the troupe playing?" Ever curious to her thoughts, he looked back at to gauge her reaction, unable to keep a playful smile off his face. Gods above she was beautiful.
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The village of Hilltop was a small remote settlement on the edge of Himilrad, closer towards the territory owned by the Vaegir Principality. Rural living it was, with simple honest folk who harvested wheat to be sent back to the Castle as well as make a living on their own. The people that lived here loved their freedom and independence, with the governing forces more than a days ride away. Sven Lunginstad stepped out of his lovely cottage smoking his pipe of tobacco. Smoke rose from the chimney as his wife Hilda cooked their supper. Their daughter Gerti had grown up and married a hard working merchant in the city that wrote them regularly. Sven often enjoyed watching the sun set upon the valley during these cool nights as summer gave way to fall. Puffing thick clouds of smoke he decided to do a walk through of the barn noticing the door was open. He had apparently forgot to shut it so now was a good a time as any for a last check to make sure the cows were okay. It was still light out enough to see inside as the veteran farmer scratched his blonde stubble at the sight inside. The cows seemed nervous and at attention, but they weren't making hardly a sound.
" Whats wrong girls? Seen a fox or something?" He leaned against a stall to check on the calves. Cute lil brown eyes looked up at him with that blank expression cows often gave. He smiled and reached to pet one, scratching it between the ears.
A sharp pressuring pain dove into his chest which turned one hundred and eighty degrees as fast as it happened causing all air to leave his lungs. Something sharp dragged across his neck spilling a warm sensation over his chest and hands. In a state of shock and unable to draw breath Sven looked at his crimson hands wondering who's blood was that? His vision blurred when his feet gave out from under him as the ground rushed up to meet him swallowing him in darkness.
The cows began to bay loudly out of fear. Hilda took a few steps out the front door of the cottage still wearing her apron with a concerned look on her face.
" Sven honey? Is everything okay with the cows?" She yelled towards the ajar barn door which now was quickly becoming darkened from the setting sun.
A whistling sound was her answer as an arrow thudded her in the chest dropping her like a puppet who's strings were suddenly cut. Emerging from the barn was a man wearing a wolfskin hood, his skin and face covered in tattoos and mud. He moved like a predator quick and purposefully slinging his bow over his shoulder and redrawing his knife approaching the cottage. His deer skin boots made not a sound as he stepped over Hilda's still warm corpse. The Walder stepped through the strange den sniffing around, clearing the domicile of any other prey. The rest of the cottage was empty save for the odd and useless belongings the
the folk who come from stone huts collected. They were more like domesticated animals than true humans, a blight upon the land for they twisted the minds of animals they caged as prisoners and did not live in harmony with the land, stripping her of her resources far more than what was nessicary. The gods abandoned these people who now lived pointless lives sowing destruction wherever they landed. Putting them down was the forests will, and the faithful carried it out until death. He left the domicile open so nature may eventually retake it, as what the intent would be. The Walder hunter melded back into the dark wood as swiftly as he came, far from done for the night. There were other houses to pounce on. As he quietly moved through the darkness several other wolf hood wearing figures materialized out of no where, moving as one in a pack. Their blades already stained red as they descended upon the next row of houses.

 

[Lady Bloody Ava]

Arabella, in her own time, was a free spirit. A symphony of laughter arose along their short venture at tales of his youth along with the occasional quip. This was fun. This freedom was why she did not refuse. The alternative was too bleak with a variety of unforeseeable factors that could lead her down a grim and painful life. A man like Edwin was rare. A man who treated a woman as an equal and valued her wisdom. A man with compassion, that cared about others rather than the coins that lined his pocket. Should Gabriella meet the fate that Arabella had dodged then at lease Bella had the power to help. His assistance was sweet and was accepted graciously and when her eye beheld the sight below she was speechless. The music spoke to her soul and the smile upon her face refused to go away. At first, she rest the palms of both hands upon the smooth stone edge and took in the sight while listening to him speak. Edwin was right. These were now her people. RIght there her heart threatened to burst at his sweet sounding words. "What do I think?" Repeating his question once more before she hugged his arm and looked the future king in his eyes. "I think it is wonderous. I wish that we were down there." The manner in which she hugged his arm had it nestled between her bosom. "You... will be an amazing King, Edwin, and I look forward to being your queen. Now... dance with me." The music hug in the hair and the cheerful festivities were contagious. "Come on Edwin, dance with me." She was all smiles and held a generous handful of her dress in each hand and danced around her fiance with a smile.
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Gabriella finished her lessons and the sun was setting on the horizon. Once dismissed she headed to the stables and mounted the chestnut courser horse that was saddled up. In one swift motion, she was mounted and off. "Let's have a little fun, Monte." The powerful warhorse took off at a run. The wind sweeping long loose auburn locks and the loose ends of her modest dress back. It was a euphoric feeling. The world seemed left behind when she let Monte lead the way. It was a little lonely. Had Arabella caught wind of her leaving their home for a joy ride, Bella would be saddled up on her black courser, Fiona. The sky was painted in gorgeous hues of red, orange, purple, and pink. A nip of the cool weather that lingered around the corner nipped at her exposed flesh as the wind whipped by. Their father hated when the girls left the grounds without escorts. Their home neared vast empty lands with lush forests. Who would linger on the Duke's grounds? When her home was no longer in sight she unmounted Monte and patted the gorgeous beast. "Oh, Monte... this is ridiculous. How could they do this? How could they make such ludicrous arrangements between family?" Monte seemed to listen as his owner pet him and pressed a kiss to his muzzle. "Looks like it's just you and me buddy. Let's head back before mother calls in the cavalry to find us." With ease, she mounted Monte and set him off once more. Monte knew where home was and it was getting dark very fast. If her mother thought her missing she would do something extreme.

______________________________________________________________

Geoffrey was laid back and full of ale. He would return home in the morning and Bella and Edwin would get news of the wedding date. Geoffrey would have to prepare Gabriella for the day and Meredith. Arrangements would be easier since....both sides were already family. The village would be celebrating up to the very night of the wedding. While Gabriella was out and about on her own, her sister was already contemplating dawning attire many would deem below her station and a cloak to join the people, her people. Bella also had to write to her sister and hand it off to her father to deliver it. The week would certainly be eventful.