-Royal Blessing- (Erech, King & Queen)

[Desperanza]

The day was turning out rather warm, sunny and bright. The morning had come around smoothly and so far, there was nothing amiss within the castle. Alexa had recently put in hours of work in the town to help with the cleanup effort of the debris and other things that had happened to be strewn around town. Now, she sat at her mirror gazing into her own reflection. She no longer needed to hope that she would see Erech again, she knew. Today however, she was eager. Today was the confrontation for she knew that Erech had plans of inquiring for her hand from her father today, and her mother was most definitely hanging around today. Abigail had even been spotted here and there in the castle at various points of the morning. She had taken her breakfast in her room that morning claiming that she felt ill but Alexa had seen her none the less. The selection for Alexa’s attire today ranged from an enticing sky blue, ivory, and gold dress that hugged her slender figure and ranged out towards the bottom as most of her dresses did. Gold bangles adorned her right wrist and a pair of topaz stud earrings adorned her ears. It was simple today, believe it or not though her dress brought out the color of her eyes and the gold gave her a bit of flash. Her hair however had simply been brushed out with the simple crown braid, the rest of her honey brunette hair fell loose at her back.

As the Princess finished preparing for the day, she stood from her mirrored table and brushed the maid away as she made her way to her balcony door. The tall glass emblazoned doors were swung wide before she stepped out onto the stone balcony and took a deep breath of crisp fresh air. As she sent a glance towards the town, the sight of the bustle of activity in the town made her smile. Things were beginning to get back to normal once again. Taking a deep breath, she inhaled slowly and made her way to the edge of the balcony to rest her hands against the railing and gaze out across the courtyard. Soon. Soon she would see the sight of her lover, her sweetheart. The ranger that had stolen her heart, and she would be there to meet him. She had no intentions of letting him face her parents alone for the fact that they were the current King and Queen was enough stress, but the fact that her mother lived as a tyrant was another. Besides that fact she had to admit that she was very eager. She had waited years for her prince charming, her knight in shining armor, her husband. The one man that she would ‘click’ with, the one that loved her for her, and not for the position that came with it. She had never thought that her soon to be husband would be a prince, for she had never met one that she had liked. Nor did she wish for another that came from money, for he would never be the kind of King that she wanted at her side. Her decision was final, and in her mind it was perfect.

She remained at the balcony for a few long minutes before she turned from the balcony once more and made her way back inside now warmed by the sun, she passed into the shade of her bedroom once more, skipping her way to the door with a soft smile to the maid in the room who offered a friendly and amused smile at the Princess’s antics. They both knew that Alexa was thrilled and it was becoming increasingly hard to show it. The Princess danced around her room for a few moments until she felt as if she could present herself without exploding into nervous and excited chatter. As she hurried from her room, she gathered the skirts of her dress between her fingers and headed downstairs, pausing as she heard a call, “Princess, your crown!” he was the maid from her room, a good friend as most of them were and Alexa turned and bent so the young woman could place the glittering diamond tiara upon her head and balance the combs into her hair before she turned and made her way downstairs once more and out onto the ground floor. She took a deep breath and paced the entrance hall for some time but she decided that she didn’t want to be confronted by the sight of family again, not until Erech stood at her side. She had been there for breakfast and discussion and now, she waited for her fiancée’s arrival. She turned towards the door, thanking the guards as they pushed the doors open for her and she smiled, her features lit with vibrant radiance as she made her way back out into the sun, smoothing her skirts as she traveled forward regally with a sweeping and elegant walk. It was almost simple to tell that she was in a bit of a rush but she carefully held her composure all the way through the courtyard to pause, poised and waiting just past the iron and stone entrance gates, the draw bridge lowered and the guards poised all the way down the walkway as now, she waited at the head of the path, awaiting the sign of the Ranger, Erech.

[/b][/font]

[Erech]

The day was young, far too young. Morning even. Erech had struggled to get even a wink of sleep last night. He had ended up staying over at the Blue Boar Inn last night, due to the extensive conversation Erech had with Van. The Innkeeper of the famous tavern of Ellsinora. He knew he always had a room at the Blue Boar as his friendship with Van was a strong bond. However, today was a big day for him and Van gave his support before Erech left the Inn. His body covered in his usual Ranger attire. Ellesar, not too happy about the early start but he was happy for his partner. The wolf was intellectually advanced and knew exactly what was going on. He would become the first ever Royal wolf. Erech waved to Van, thanking him as he loaned him his best mount. A diamond white horse, one of the most beautiful horses in Kiyer besides those of the royals. Erech walked from the Blue Boar's swinging doors into the nearby Stable's, Van knew the owner of the horse well and he was actually in debt with Van, so he had the debt cleared for the loaning of his best horse to Erech. An act of Van's golden heart.

Erech entered the stables early, he had yet to eat any breakfast but he would ride out to a small tailor he knew just outside of Kiyer. She was one of the best in the business and creator of his fine Ranger cloth. Old Lady Flaurence was her name. Erech rode out with Ellesar running beside him and the white galloping horse. Erech soon found himself outside of Flaurences home, he steadily removed himself from the horses saddle and left Ellesar beside the steed. He walked calmly towards the womans door, approaching it with a flick of his wrist as his knuckles knocked against the wooden shack door.

The woman quickly snapped at the door handle, opening it. She was expecting Erech after hearing faint word of his relations with Alexa. She knew exactly what he had come for and had already began work on his royal attire. He stepped into her home, it was brightly decorated with stands, upon which bore her fancy clothing designs. She had made a business from her talent of tailoring and Erech would pay a good sum for his purchase. She quickly darted around her home, despite her aging frame. Her back hunched as she weaved in and out of the dressed stands. He too followed her path, weaving between the headless figures. He finally approached a small room, in which there was nothing but one dressed stand. The stand bore Erech's attire for this very day.

The suit was magnificent, a shirt bearing intricate laced designs, large cuffs which encased his wrists and showed off his masculine hands. The shirt was rather loose to his body, but teh torso was soon held tight with sleeveless, coat, buttoned up the front, with a velvet shine, the waist coat was a dark green colour with a golden trim and golden buttons, along with being marketed by golden designed embroided into the coat itself. Atop of that he wore the suits jacket, a fine velvet shine just like the waistcoat, golden stitches and trim. Erech was more than pleased. He then wore somewhat tight fitting white pants, they weren't too tight but just tight enough for him. The bore a golden strip down each side of the leg and a white belt across his waist with a golden buckle. His feet were adorned with a pair of white, shin-high boots encased in golden laced designs. He looked fit for the castle of Ellsinora. Happy with the suit, Erech collected his rangers attire and stuffed it into a satchel he had brought with him. Collecting a large bag of coins before hand, he forced them into the old womans hand, clamping his own hands over hers to ensure she would take it. Erech then left, whisking away from the house, Erech returned to his companion and mount. Ellesar's jaw touched the floor as he gazed his eyes upon Erech, the wolf had never before seen Erech dressed as so. He flicked his hair back, it remained in its usuall slightly curled style, although it was less knotted and lay smooth from his head. He hopped onto the diamond white horse and set off, old woman Flaurence watching him as he galloped away from her small shack. Ellesar sprinting alongside him.

Erech soon reached Kiyer once again, it was not far from the Ellsinora castle, just through the town and he would be there. He would first stop of to see Van once more. He heading over to the Blue Boar Inn, to shock Van and have a quick bite of bread. After eating the chunk of bread, Erech thanked Van again, and left upon his steed. He trotted through the town, it was still early and the markets stall owner stopped shouting about their wares as they watched Erech gracefully trot through the markets. He soon reached the path leading to the Castle. the sun was shining upon the castle and was situated behind Erech as he rode forwards slowly approaching the castle walls. Today was a day to remember.

He soon reached sight of Alexa, she was dressed beautifully as usual and her figure slender, enticing Erech to rush over and grab her, but he knew he couldn't. Acts like that wouldn't go down well with the rest of the Royals, although he knew Alexa would have loved such a show of emotion. He rode up to her slowly, his body straight as the diamond white steed stopping just feet from Alexa. He quickly removed himself from the saddle and stepped onto the cobblestone path. He looked into Alexa's eyes as he walked forwards. He was proud, in love and about to do something that would last his whole life. Marrying this woman seemed perfect for him. She was amazing, just being within her presence made him weak at the knees, something no one has ever done before. Even the mighty enemies of Murate never struck fear into his heart, but this woman. This woman created one fear. The fear of loosing her. He strode up to her, holding out his hand as he lowered his head in a curt bow. He wanted to do everything properly and wouldn't release his bow until she took his hand. Without raising his head, he spoke, calmly, gently, softly with his rough vocie still lingering within the accent.

"Take my hand, Princess Alexa. I have arrived to take your hand and your heart."

[Desperanza]

Alexa felt the slight sting of nerves within her stomach and yet it was laced with elation and excitement. The coming even told of the wedding soon to be after. The question was, would it be a royal wedding, or a couple off to elope? The thought made her a bit nervous but her faith was undying for her father until this point. She still held a rather strong bond with him and she leaned on that for support in thinking that he would agree and allow the marriage with honor and integrity, and not anger. She knew that this was coupled with the news of Tryphena’s pregnancy and supposed ‘marriage’ as well and that it didn’t go down all that well but this was all in a matter of respect towards the royals, she knew. She did not doubt that Erech would be working hard to impress her parents and get the answer that he wanted but she also did not doubt the fact that she loved him so dearly that she would leave it all behind to be with him, and she hoped that it did not happen for she could pick no better King for Ellsinora’s future.

Grinning lightly, she bit her lower lip and took to distracting herself as she waited. Her form was elegant and held as such as she waited within the courtyard, feeling the warm stroke of the sun at her shoulders and now she relaxed. Calmed by the slight breeze that didn’t allow for a stifling heat to settle, her cheeks flushed slightly with the crisp morning air as the hours ticked by into late morning by now which was better, it allowed her parents time out of bed and for breakfast as well as letting them screw their crowns on straight and gather their minds around the event. They had not much knowledge as to what this affair meant for the Princess had been vague in telling them that a ranger dear to her would be coming and she had later broken in to the King in private that this matter was important on her part and she hoped that he had listened.

Now as she stood just inside of the gates she came to distract herself for some time because staring down the cobbled lane would drive her crazy for every moment that passed that she did not see her dear ranger approaching. She expected him to be on foot because to the best of her knowledge he didn’t own a horse and she expected him in his usual dark tones and ranger clothing for some reason and not because he was not rich, but because it is the way she had always seen him when they had fallen in love but the sight that was to greet her was far more dazzling and intricate and she had to clench her jaw to keep from offering any odd facial remarks other then the fabulous smile that seemed to lighten the mood of any of the guards in the area. Her eyes were alight with icy flames of enthrallment as she took a steady trembling breath and smoothed her fingers distractedly across her skirts once again, her back straightened quickly as she carefully contained herself from gathering her skirts between her hands and darting to the gates to fling them open herself to embrace the ranger as he approached and even if she could, she wasn’t sure that her legs would let her as the magnificent sight before her was something completely new and if not for that typical slightly curled black hair and those dazzling blue eyes that looked back at her, she would have wondered if this were an imposter trying to step in for Erech.

However there would be no mistaking this man. The fabulous white steed he rode in on was a dream but the man that sat at his back was far more enticing and she smiled, knowing there was no way that she could look serious at this moment but her smile was not teasing it was soft and inviting and it was loving. Her blue eyes gazed upon the sight of the man with his very royal looking suit. From head to toe he looked every bit the royal line he was about to be and she doubted that there was any way that her parents could not be impressed. She worried briefly that he had spent too much preparing for this event but she imagined herself leaving this afternoon with him if only for a little while at least. She wanted to see where he had lived all these years, how he lived, she wanted to talk to him and be with him and hopefully that time would be spent without worries that her parents disapproved for if not, she would be with him with Zephyr and they would be riding away into the sun to elope, instead.

As her eyes scanned the fantastic velveteen clothes and gold accent, the gold buttons and the polished ivory and gold boots, she gasped. She stepped forward just a bit as he dismounted but she reminded herself that she should not run, they needed to make this convincing. She didn’t worry much for herself but she knew just how important this was for Erech to get this right, she knew that he wanted this impeccable and the fact that he had bought himself a fantastic suit was proof enough. But as he dismounted and made his way forward, bowing before her, she held her breath, a slight pang running through her as she had never wanted him to bow or kneel before her. He was her lover, her soon to be husband and they were just as equal now as they always had been. They were partners and quickly, her hand drifted upwards to slide within his, her expression a sight of fulfilled emotion, serene and soft and gentle as she peered up at the ranged with a radiant flourish about her.

She could hear the doors swing wide behind her, preparation for the coming King and Queen for the greetings to be made in the courtyard before the royal family swept inside to discuss their matters. Alexa smiled, her free hand lowering to lift Erech’s chin slightly and gently, “Please, come with me where we may settle these matters once and for all and where my heart may forever be yours, as it already is.” She murmured softly to the man with a gentle smile. She no longer looked upon anyone else, she had eyes only for him in every sense of the matter. She needed no distractions and she needed no rescuing for today of all days, her prince charming had finally arrived and he did not bring with him multiple maids and ladies waiting at his feet, he did not bring gems studding his fingers or lotion bathed hands. He did not bring a haughty attitude or lots of riches, he brought everything else but that of a royal prince. He brought a true hard working man, a man of honor and of kindness, he brought gold with him in the shape of his heart and the love that he offered to her. He brought riches that weighed far heavier than all the gold and gems that rested in the secured holds of the Ellsinora royalty, and she would forever cherish the treasure that he was to her and now, as she stood proudly at his side, her chin lifted and her gaze filled with a strong look of royal heir for she knew that her decision had been right and perfect and she would not change a thing in the world about it. She would travel where ever he led her and she would always turn to him in times of trouble and forever more she would always offer him every ounce of love that she held in her heart. So let them look. Let the people of Ellsinora see her for what she had chosen and whom she had chosen. Let them view their future King as who he was, a true Ellsinora member, a ranger and a man that held not a drop of royal blood in her veins and for this she was not ashamed. Her future children would forever be from both sides of the line and she was proud and she showed it with every fiber now as she stood at his side, ready to face whatever was to come from the mouths of the King and the Queen as to their future together.

[/size]

[cassie]

The King came from the side corridors. He had been inspecting the walls and wood work that stood as castle's own defense's. Crevan halted as he commander approached him and explained the damage that had been taken on by the entire castle. The only thing to do was to start fixing things now. There had been a slight breakdown the the south wall, and needed to be fixed first. The issue was how? This had been the only thought on the King's mind. Until he had spotted Alexa pacing and all but wringing her hands from pure worry.
The King stood and watched Alexa suspiciously, it wasn't just anything that made his eldest daughter worry. Yet something was pin pricking her mind. He stood and watched his daughter as the hours had surly already passed. He had decided he would go and talk to her but stopped while still in the shadows when a brilliant horse rode forward through the open gates. Alexa seemed to jump from her skin with pure excitement and was that love? Alexa had fallen for a prince? This simply couldn't be possible, until the king saw the boys hands and his hair and the wolf that followed along side this small party. The king knew the wolf, he was a protector of the town.
This was interesting, intriguing really. The king was dressed almost as if a peasant today. Crevan had no royal working cloths. It would be very improper to meet Alexa's future husband dressed so. Therefore he made his lazy way to his chambers, this was nerve wracking now. He didn't expect, nor honestly wanted. But he saw the way Alexa looked at the boy, and saw that she was in love. The determination on her face told he everything Crevan needed to know. He wouldn't risk losing his eldest daughter, any of his daughters again. But he would make Alexa pay hell for what she wanted most. In the end Crevan would always give his daughter what she wanted, always had. Crevan came to his chambers and summoned a bath to be drawn. He sank into the clean water and washed away his days work. He stood and as quickly dressed.
A maid came to his doors and knocked lightly, the doors were opened once the king was covered and she said "Your daughter Alexa, requests you down stairs." Crevan nodded and said "Yes, i know."

[Deidra]

Liliandil had long since wandered back up to her room her Irish Setter at her heels. The dog was her constant companion, one thing she loved for what it was and not for what it gave her. She had had her bath filled with rose petals and fine sented oils as she chose to only take baths the ways Queens can. The servants hands trembled at her smallest words afraid she'd blow up, the sight made Liliandil laugh inwardly. She had spent quite a while in the bath before stepping out, drying off and calling for more maids to dress her. Today she would wear only her finest silks to see this "special friend" of Alexa's. Liliandil scoffed at the idea for she was not at all stupid, she knew her daughter would not pic a man from any good breeding, no he would have come from her subjects and this made her skin crawl. She came to stand in front of her floor length mirror as a maid finally braved to come inside her room and began to dress the Queen in silks of greens and silvers and golds. Her tight bodice showed off the aging Queens figure, still very much in shape. The maid posed a shy question to Liliandil about wether she wanted Azell dressed as well and she paused to ponder this for a moment before waving the maid off in answer. It was like the maids were braving her in turns as another ran in to braid her shining white hair and tie it up bun, then yet another darted in to place her crown atop her head before she swiftly left again. Liliandil knew she put her servants on edge, she did it on purpose for it amused her and she laughed as she stood and crossed to the door of her room.

Liliandil made her way slowly through the castle followed by her bare unadorned red dog at her heels. Every now and then she would stop to admire certain favorite paintings, like one of a lavender field with several willow trees and a pink sky as the sun set. Another was of her old horse Dreamwalker, the magnificent blood bay stallion was running through a field of daisies kicking up his heels, she remembered the day it was painted but she chose not to think of it as she moved on down the hallways her silks seeming to hiss as she walked and the sound brought a smile to her face, for once it was a pretty smile one of a formerly pretty woman who had become soured with age. As she turned a corner to make her way outside her face turned into a scowl her scar seemed to almost touch her brow, which it indeed made her look menacing and in her head she smiled at the fact. As she made it to the door to the castle Liliandil lifted up her skirts just off the ground and waited for a servant to open the door for her before she made her way out into the courtyard. Her eyes roved the scene in front if her, a white steed, a man in fine silks holding her eldest daughter hand, and as she came to the last figure Azell growled, twas a wolf gracing her courtyard. A small sharp laugh escaped her as she took the steps down from the castle and on to the courtyard stones where she let her skirts fall down about her. She looked every bit of a queen, a ruthless one, but a queen no doubt.

Liliandil strode forward intent on meeting this man before she allowed him to grace her castle's insides. She attempted to arrange her face to where it was not so easily detected that she was already disgusted by the man, even if he was clothed in fine clothes. To her he was but a towns person someone who should be kept far away from her. But she would make an effort for her daughter to like this man she brought before them. When she reached him she paused and motioned for Azell to stay some ways off and turned back as she began to stride around him, taking in his clothes, how they were made, how the suit went together and the last thing she looked at were his boots, those were what finally made up her mind for she quite took a fancy to those boots though she'd never wear them. Liliandil finally spoke but not to Erech but to Alexa "When you are ready to bring him inside please do so." she said before turning and walking back towards the castle doors a servant hurriedly opened it for her and she walked into the throne room and made her way to her throne with a smile. She then sat and waited for Crevan to come down and for Alexa to bring her guy inside to get this over with.

[Erech]

His still blue eyes opened as he lifted his head. Listening to Alexa's gracious words, he had taken her hand as he looked at her face, a face of beauty, intelligence and much, much more. Erech smiled softly as he did not speak back to her words, he simply acknowledged them. He stood hand in hand with Alexa as the castle doors were pushed open by one of the many maids of the castle. They were something Erech was not looking for too, he was extremely independant, and hated having things done for him. If the whole marriage succeeded, the maids would not have to bother with Erech, in fact he would even order them to leave him be. He thought about his life within the castle if this all went well. The fine foods, fine cloths and endless amounts of gold. That was what many of the men who wished of Akexa's hand would be thinking but not Erech. He was thinking of how he could use the new found title and position to better those within Ellsinora and how to tackle the ever growing problem of Magrej's forces.

It was quite obvious that the castle had sustained damage from the hurricane. Erech was sure it would be soon mended, the servants of the castle would do a good job. But, Erech knew one man who could have done a better job, The Blue Boar Innkeeper, Van. He was a hand at fixing building, his own building survived the hurricane will little damage thanks to his work. Erech's mind snapped back to this world as the Queen approached from his castle. His eyes quickly averted and noticed a canine companion following upon her heels. His finger flicked out towards Ellesar, who sat beside Erech. The wolfs chin then lifted, Erech had order for him to stay as he was, not to react to the other canine. If Ellesar ignored Erech's command it could create a very awkward situation. However, the loyal wolf companion followed his orders and remained seated at Erech's side. Alexa at his other side, Erech gave a curt nod as the Queen approached. She seem to inspect him, his eyes watching her moved around him, he watched her eyes scan his cloths, inparticular his boots. Thank goodness, he had dressed up for the event. Although, once today was over, he would surely resort back to his green ranger cloths. He watched as the ruthless Queen then turned and entered back to her castle. Listening to her words, he gripped Alexa's hand softly. His other hand extended forwards. "Shall we?" Erech was nervous but his nimbleness and balance allowed him to dsiregard the shaking knees and nervous look within his body language. He actually looked quite confident a he smiled to Alexa. His head thens hifted and look down to Ellesar. "It for the best if you stay out here with the Horse, Ellesar. Don't be any trouble." Erech smiled as he awaited Alexa to escort him into the castle.

[Desperanza]

[/size=1]Alexa held back an inward sigh, wondering why her father had yet to show up out in the courtyard yet. She had informed him that this would be happening today, she was sure and yet he did not appear. A tiny pit of worry began to brew within her stomach and she swallowed, soothing herself with the touch of Erech’s hand. She cast a glance to the man at her side and once again, her wavering smile rejuvenated and she was back to her better mood as she kept her hand within his, taking strength from the fact that he remained at her side. Together they could make it through this whether it turned out for better or for worse. She didn’t have to comply to that of the King and the Queen, she could do as she wished. The two were doing them a kindness to show up like this, to ask for their permission but without it did not mean that she was not allowed to marry this man for whom her heart belonged because she would find another way. She would ride away with him, disappear from the walls of the castle for some time if she had to. When her parents were gone, she would be Queen. What could they take from her? She was patient however, praying that her parents would be civil about this but she already knew not to count her mother into that equation too far because her mother like Abigail did not appreciate people from town. Her mother lived for that of royalty, the wealth and cleanliness of those that came from castles and impeccable bloodlines, this would be a challenge.

As the Princess stood at Erech’s side, her heart thundered within her chest and her cheeks flushed slightly. A maid skittered forward from the doorway of the castle with a feather lined fan to offer her some comfort, fearing that the Princess suffered from the heat but Alexa offered the young woman a gentle smile and waved her away with a soft sigh, holding a bit tighter to the ranger’s hand. Sending a brief glance to Ellesar, Alexa smiled faintly, imagining the wolf wandering the halls of the castle in later years. Smiling lightly, a thought occurred to Alexa as she lifted her chin and glanced upwards along the castle. She could see the balcony to her bedroom quite a few floors up, the balcony that she spent quite a bit of time on, hours throughout the day gazing out towards town and when she wasn’t standing out there, she was sitting by the window with the balcony doors swept open to let in the crisp fresh air from outside of the castle.

Sighing softly, the Princess took a slow breath once again, her gaze caught briefly by the cuff of Erech’s fantastic selection of clothing. Her bright blue eyes traveled as she came to gaze over the outfit that hugged his frame, enticing a smile upon her features once again for no doubt the money he spent on this suit reminded her of how important she was to him still for any man that would give up such a bundle all for a suit surely did it in favor of the Princess but she knew no man that would, save for one, the one. Smiling gently, she inclined her head to brush a brief kiss to his cheek before straightening again. It was a brief sign of affection and thanks for the time and money that he had spent on this day, for how important it was to him and to both of them. As she straightened, the doors of the castle swung open to allow the Queen out into the courtyard and she turned to face the entrance once more, wanting to present a good image for her parents as she didn’t want to give them any reason to cause a scene for this wonderful soul of a ranger at her side.

As she gazed upon the sight of the Queen she was no doubt wearing her best and finest silks and linens in dazzling gold and silver and the contrasting hunter green. Taking a breath, Alexa soothed her stirring emotions and nodded politely to her mother, greeting her softly before she fell silent once more as she let the Queen have a good look at the man that she had selected for herself. But as she stood there, she could nearly feel the seething distaste that the Queen held because Erech was indeed a man of the town. He did not come with riches or an expanse of money and gems. He did not come from the walls of a castle or royal lines. He was a good and true hearted man of Kiyer, and that was all. However on this day she did not meet him as such, she met him as a man dressed in his finest with only the best intentions in mind and the ultimate respect for the King and Queen. As the Queen inspected him, Alexa’s tension finally broke as she watched her mother carefully who seemed to take a liking to the ranger’s boots. Biting back a smile, the Princess let loose an inward sigh of relief. Perhaps this was a good sign, a sign that things would turn out well after all.

Ringing words reached her ears from Liliandil’s mouth and she nodded curtly to the Queen in return, figuring that they would meet her father inside. She thanked the Queen quietly with a slight smile as she gazed after her. The whisper and hiss of her silks could be heard all the way back to the doorway that led into the castle and Alexa waited until the Queen had finally made her way back into the shadows of the doorway and had disappeared before finally, she turned quickly on her heel to wrap her arms around Erech’s neck, hugging herself tightly to him with a wide smile as she tucked her cheek to his chest for a moment and she relished the feel of his strong and muscular body held to her own. She adored the fact that he was here with her and that he had once again returned to her side for when they were apart, there had not been a moment that he had not occupied a piece of her mind for even a moment and she smiled now as her chin lifted and her lips were pressed to his own briefly before she straightened herself, having had to stand on her toes to reach him fully. Smiling softly, the Princess purred gently to him, “You look so unlike yourself and yet, you were fit to fill this position for which stands in your future, the King. I could have found no better man then you.” She murmured softly to him with a light smile as she looked up at him, her hands resting at his chest for a few moments as she peered up at him with an eager and radiant emotion of adoration for this man as she looked up at him.

Quickly though, she regained her composure, reminding herself that there would be plenty of time to spend with him later after this whole ordeal was finished and so she smoothed her skirts and tucked a strand of honey brunette hair behind her ear once more as she turned and slid her hand back into his again with an encouraging smile to the man as she nodded in reply to his words, “Of course.” She replied softly to him as she glanced up to him before she turned and finally began to make her way into the castle. Her steps were steady and yet patient as she made her way across the courtyard into the entrance of the castle. The shade that the inside of the castle provided was refreshing from the outer heat and she offered a soft sigh of relief, her lashes fluttering closed before her eyes flitted open once more to the sight of a few maids lingering, curiously viewing the sight of the future King with light smile of curiosity. With a slight smile, Alexa continued past them.

She led Erech along the castle halls and by now she was used to this place. The was used to the velveteen hunter green carpet laced in gold that lined the floor and the fine paintings that adorned the walls. The castle was always kept clean so the halls were impeccable and when she reached the throne room there stood the thrones of the King and Queen. Carved in gold and studded here and there with gemstones and velvet plush seats for the royals, there they sat and at the head of the room sat her mother. Still she had no sign of her father and she felt that familiar sinking feeling that she had felt only a short while before when her father had not bothered to come out and greet his eldest daughter and her soon to be husband but she enticed the feeling away as she encouraged her spirits to remain high, expecting sign of the King soon enough so instead she gave her mother a patient smile as she led Erech forward into the throne room before she paused, glancing to Erech thoughtfully for a moment before she glanced around for her father now, curious as to what was keeping the King.
[/center][/size][/font]

[cassie]

Crevan nearly ran through the long hall ways of the castle as he hunted down what he wanted. Crevan knew that these papers that he desired were key to the trouble he would stir, so the first place that he went to after his bath was the kings own personal study. Crevan dragged three servants and several guards behind him in a quick flurry as he whisked through his neat study, even waking his little 'Sherie. The young fox glared at him as she stood and stretched out her back, as if like a feline. 'Sherie padded across the room to lay down across a stack of neat papers. The poor furry creature couldn't stand any heat or And kind. 'Sherie daydreamed of the cool weather that was soon to be in the kingdom.
Crevan hmp'ed and shooed 'Sherie off the papers and sent a look to her that screamed 'to your room if you want to sleep.' Crevan continued on his rampage through the castle, it was more like the steps of a mouse than an actual rampage, unlike the Queens irritating hissing and stomping that she usually caused. Lips broke out into a huge grin as he found the papers he seeked, and even on that he found others that would help in his case. Finally dumping several large maps into the awaiting arms of servant Crevan nodded as if pleased with what he found.
Turn to leave his study the King braced his walk to be a bit slower, he knew that this day was important to his daughter. Crevan loved her dearly but he couldn't help but to cause mischief and a little worry. Alexa would no doubt be looking and wondering where the king would possibly be. Precisely at the moment King Crevan walked along the gold trimmed green hallways of the castle ever approaching the large doors that lead to the throne room.
The tall door stood the tallest of all the castle doors, except the open entrance. They were of solid wood and unlike everything else in the castle it had no gold adorning it, not even the handles. The handles were silver instead, and the inner designing's had silver. It was the plainest of doors and had been made so for Crevan. Gold became over used and quiet honestly very drab in the castle.
The throne room doors had already been set open for the day. As the King and his small posse of followers advanced to the open doorways he could see the Queen already perched in her throne, and his beautiful young daughter beside the man, no boy, that she thought suited her. Well Crevan intended to fully find out. Crevan's gaze returned to his wife and he had a fleeting thought that Liliandil look most like a eagle, or a falcon. Some bird that could and would strike down any danger to her or her family.
Crevan fell in love with Liliandil as he realized this was the biggest upside to Liliandil. She was over protective and therefore she had been scaring away any unworthy boys and pest that would trouble their children. Part one of the Royal Parents jobs were already done and Crevan just had to start part two of the whole thing.
As he walked into the room there was a silence and he looked down on the boy seated next to his precious Alexa. Crevan summoned the servants forward and he said in a deep kingly voice "You wish to marry my Daughter do you?"

[Deidra]

Liliandil adjusted her skirts as she sat waiting and arranged her face into one of a Queen. It seemed like ages before Alexa and her boy finally came in with Azell behind them. The red dog trotted over to her and laid down at her feet, ever the loyal companion. Liliandil watched her daughter fidget and become anxious and she inturn became exceedingly impatient as they waited for her husband to appear. She tsk'ed loudly and her face dropped into a more familiar sight. Her impatience was beginning to show as she sat there in her elegant throne. It had been made to her specifications, silver made with ruby and emerald inlays and gold trims. A beautifully arched top elegantly carved and curved. It was another pride of hers as it madethe Queen feel all the more powerful as she sat upon it now and stared out at the young man who stood at her eldest daughters side. And her mind recoiled again at the idea that he had no royal breeding. Pah! It was a ghastly idea that a royal would marry beneath them especially a future Queen such as Alexa herself.

Now as she sat she inspected the man further. She started at his face a very masculine face though rough and unshaven and he had piercing blue eyes. His face was not all that bad to look at really it was just a matter of his breeding that disgusted Liliandil and her face once again screwed up into a scowl as her husband finally entered the room. Her head turned in his direction, she no longer stood when he entered a room for she was his wife and therefore his equal, and in her mind more capable of making decisions than he. She never voiced that thought and now as she looked at him she just gave him a gaze that asked him what the hell took so long. Crevan instead though directed a question towards the man standing in their throne room, an almost childish grin upon her husbands face and she shook her head. Liliandil had a feeling he was going to allow this marriage, but also felt he was up to something and she did not like being left out of the loop. Her gaze flitted from her husband to rest upon Erech and his attire as she awaited his reply, whatever it may be.

[Erech]

Erech's muscular figure walked beside Alexa as they entered the Throne Room. Erech had never seen such beauty in the form of a building, yet his eyes didn't gaze, they simply scanned. If he gave the impression of being dumbfounded by such the Royals may have something to say about it. Erech wanted everything to go perfectly as he stood beside Alexa in the presence of the Queen and her jewel encrusted throne. Soon to be Alexa's prized seat. His piercing blue eyes met with the Queen's as he caught her eyes scanning his face and clothing once again. It was sure he would be judged by all the royals. He believed the Queen already had her judgement of him, and it was time to meet the King. He was finally in the presence of the two people he had dedicated his life to serving, and they didn't even know his name.

As the King entered, Erech was already standing and gave a curt nod to the ruler of Ellsinora. However, he was quickly bombarded with a question. Erech didn't hesitate, nor did he show any signs of weakness. His strong manly voice echoed back as he replied to the King's question.

"Only with your consent, my King. I stand before you wishing for nothing but your daughters hand in marriage."

He reply was sturn and straight to the point. Erech didn't want to mess this up and the longer it went on, the higher the chances of him messing something up. He wanted to get this over and done with. His royal suit was quite uncomfortable but he dismissed the whole feelings as he knew it was a necessity for such an event. Erech was worried of his reply, but he didn't show any signs and only gave a confident, straightened look towards the King, awaited his response to Erech's words.

[Desperanza]

The castle was stirring, seeming to ring with the chatter of the man at the castle that had come to ask for the eldest Princess Alexa’s hand. The word was traveling fast and by early morning, Abigail had gotten the news. The second Princess sat before her looking mirror, her purple eyes gazing at her own reflection as she stared into the glass, placing her favorite ruby items upon her body. As she slid her ruby earrings into place, she huffed, standing as she twirled to inspect the sight of her dress, again her favorite in a dark blood red accented with gold. It hugged her frame which was slender but still a little wider around then her eldest sister whom had seemed to be carved like an angel of which many eyes looked upon in beauty and adoration and it infuriated Abigail. Sighing, the raven haired young woman adjusted the ruby tennis bracelet at her wrist, gazing over each of the square shaped red stones that were set into their settings upon the ruby and gold jeweled item. At her neck rested a netted gold and ruby necklace. It was a set of earrings, bracelet, and necklace that had been given to her by her mother a few years earlier and save for special occasions she was nearly always wearing her rubies. The red brought out the pop of her lavender eyes and it had also stolen into her heart. She would never part with her gems. Now, as she gazed at herself, today she had decided not to braid her hair and the ebony tresses hung down fanning her back and silken smooth. It had taken the maid hours of brushing to get it to Abigail’s liking, to the point that the poor maid feared her own hands would fall off and she had to be sent away for the pain in her wrists was so great that she couldn’t continue working but Abigail was satisfied and did not give a wits care about the maid what so ever.

She smoothed the skirts of her dress and when she was satisfied, she finally turned from the mirror with a grin, her lavender eyes set in an icy stare as she made her way across the room in her lilting swing of her elegant walk that all three princesses of the castle had been taught from birth. As she made her way to the door, she snapped her fingers and a maid darted forward and pulled the door open. However there were no thanks, for Abigail expected this service. She stepped from the room with a huff as she kept her pace slow and collected. She made her way down the stairs, another snap of her fingers and there were maids lifting the short train at the back of her dress so that it did not drag. Making her way to the base of the steps, she sighed and allowed the maids to lower the dress, fanning the train out over the hunter green and gold carpet before she turned to make her way to the throne room. A maid fell into step beside her with a whisk of her fingers, “I want one at my side at all times. It is rather warm today and I will not have my silks stained by even a drop of sweat. If it happens there will be quite the price to pay.” She hissed and the maid nodded simply and scurried off, gathering a few maids and pressing Asian fans into the hands of four maids, just to be sure that if one was sent away there was another in line to take her place. All four women were lined up outside of the throne room and all had strict look of masked terror. They all hated Abigail and were frightened and nervous, prepared to do their duty but fearing their punishment if they failed and now, as they stared across at Abigail, the first stepped forward immediately as Abigail approached the doorway of the throne room and passed through.

Her eyes fell upon the backs of no doubt her oldest sister, Alexa, as well as the man at her side. He was impressively dressed, that much was evident and as she stood there taking a gander at his attire, she had to admit that the suit was impressive and seemed to be well made. Never the less she rolled her eyes and instead turned her gaze to her parents, the King and Queen who sat at the head of the room just as they should be and as she stepped forward, she skirted Alexa and Erech and came to take a place at the side of the Queen, the maid scurrying along behind her with a nervous stare as she quickly set to fanning the Princess as Abigail waited a moment before a silver arched chair was set out behind her and she happily took her place beside her mother, sinking to sit in the chair as she smoothed her skirts once more and her back remained rod straight. Her hands were folded into her lap and she was truly the look of a haughty, arrogant Princess.

While Abigail sat, she came to study the sight of Erech as he spoke, replying to the King. His answer caused her to roll her eyes and she huffed, glancing at Alexa briefly before turning her gaze back to Erech again. Snotty, impudent sister of hers, that witch had caught herself a right nice one she did. He had dazzling blue eyes and a masculine face that set Abbie’s heart in a swift rhythm. She narrowed her eyes, scrutinizing the sight of the man as her mind already began to roil in wicked thoughts, beginning to turn and toss about in ideas of how to wreck the relationship. For a moment, she met Alexa’s gaze and her elder sister gave Abigail a soft and inviting smile, ever ignoring Abbie’s bitter moods and roiling jealousy and yet, Abbie glared in response and turned her gaze back to Erech again. She wanted him. Perhaps it was because he belonged to Alexa or the fact that he truly was handsome and his voice made a trickle of desire run down her spine. Now, she looked to the Queen, eager for the woman to do something, say something to stop this ridiculous scheme of Alexa. She was certain that the Queen would have something to say about this or at least, she would stop it for sure. She gave her mother a rather sharp and expecting look at this point, “Mother?” she inquired, her tone holding a pressing bite to it as she looked to her pretty mother for support here, her chin lifting higher if that was even possible. “Surely we cannot allow such a thing. Our standards and bloodline alone state that it is neither right nor ethical for a man with no royal lines to marry a royal. It simply cannot be. Without royal blood he will have no right to the throne. Surely you would not want an impudent town man with no money and no royal lines to his name to take the throne in the future, now do you?” she inquired, now casting a glance to her father before she addressed her parents once again. “If this man were to take the throne for surely he would when Alexa becomes Queen, this man would surely give away all of our power. The royal line would be stunted and stopped. He would give money to the beggars and he would give land to strangers. He would wreck all that we have worked hard to build. He is no King, and he is certainly no Prince. Love is not a matter here, blood. Blood is the way that we must go. Alexa should be made to stay here, like Tryphena. She should be made to stay and court with the Prince’s of other lands until a marriage is made. We must keep the royal lines as royal lines.” She insisted simply with a curt nod, satisfied. She sent a chilled glance to Alexa whose features seemed to seize with fright and worry and for a moment, it looked as if the poor elder Princess would swoon but that only amused Abigail further and yet, she swallowed her laughter for the sake of her own argument. She needed her parents to agree with her, and to break this up. Now, she fell silent, waiting for the response of the King and Queen.

Alexa’s heart seemed to sink with worry and fright. She had hoped that perhaps Abigail would not show up, that for one day out of many that today Abigail would not grace them with her presence, or in other words disgrace them but unfortunately fate seemed to frown upon them and soon, there she was at the Queen’s side with her glaring lavender eyes and the maid frightened at her side fanning her furiously to beat the heat. When the maid accidentally shifted, the edge of the fan tapping Abigail’s shoulder the second Princess gasped, her purple eyes growing wide and her angular face turning sharply to glance at the brunette with a piercing and cold gaze, “You wench! Leave me and send me another! I’ll deal with you later!” she screeched, her eyes blazing. Wincing, Alexa tucked closer to Erech despite herself, fearing that if Erech was not frightened off by her parents that he would be frightened off by the prospect of having to add Abbie to his list of other family members with the wedding. She winced, feeling her stomach churn into roiling knots and she tried hard to keep the worry from her features now as she came to gaze back towards her mother and father with an almost pleading look that either one of them would show her some grace. That one or both would allow this matter to pass and that they would give them a breath of fresh air from Abbie’s suffocating arguments.

[/size]

[Jotari]

WARNING

Due to inactivity, the canon King Crevan of Ellsinora will be played by admin if not otherwise posted by June 26th, 5 PM EST.

[Desperanza]

The king’s eyes moved from that of his eldest daughter and her sweetheart to that of his second eldest daughter. His eyes were wide for a brief moment before he huffed and settled back into the back of the throne with a sigh, his hands lifting forward to fold together with a curt nod as he glanced towards Alexa and Erech once again with a thoughtful gaze. Nodding curtly, the King gazed thoughtfully at the ranger, his chin bobbing up and down and so on as he thought steadily. His eyes traveled the length of the ranger for a few long moments taking in every inch of the rather expensive suit that adorned his body before coming back to those piercing blue eyes. He had to admit that Abigail was right. This man had no royal lines and typically, the King would rather appreciate that the up and coming lines remained royal as well but he would not turn this man away if he had the means of properly caring for his daughter. He would not ignore the fact that Alexa seemed radiant with happiness. However, the King shied away from the thought. He could imagine Alexa standing at the sight of Erech with less than rich clothing adorning her body and her stomach swollen like Tryphena’s. Both of his daughter’s, pregnant and supposedly married to rather less then royal men. He certainly had no means to judge them, for he hardly knew them and his heart rather was a bit softer then that of his wife and his only Princess for whom had yet to bring home a man. However as he gazed over Erech he shifted within the throne, his eyes narrowing slightly to Erech as he thought for some time before he opened his mouth to speak, pausing at Abigail’s outburst and he cast a glance towards the Princess before turning his gaze back to Erech once more as he straightened and leaned forward slightly, “I have interest to hear what my wife has to say over this whole ordeal in all honesty for my wife seems to hold a fair judgment for men lately.” He stated with an arched brow towards the Queen, curious what his fiery veined wife thought of this whole marriage and what she would do with the whole situation and as he glanced back towards Erech, he stood from the throne and traveled forward.

He came to stand before the couple, the man that asked for his daughter’s hand in marriage and his very daughter who stared up at the King with an eager and curious look, eager for his reply to their inquiry. He gazed across the pair for a moment before he came to circle the two slowly before coming to stand before Erech, his eyes piercing once more as he gazed upon the ranger now with an inquiring and piercing look, “Now then, young man. I am curious as to what you think you are getting yourself into. Taking the hand of my daughter would include taking on all responsibility to take care of her to the best of the extent of your knowledge and ability for the rest of her life as well as yours and yet if I grant you my permission as well as the Queen’s permission that would permit you to someday be King in my stead. Do you realize what this entails? This would include from ruling this land to granting land contracts, permitting taxes and dealing with every little strange inkling of concern and matter that any of the people around would hold. So much responsibility to be held in the hands of a man with no royal lines, don’t you think?” he inquired, nodding slowly at the thought before he made his way forward once more as he traveled slowly around the room, coming to glance around himself thoughtfully for some time before he finally came to settle back within his throne once again and he glanced back to Erech once again, motioning around the room, “This castle will be yours, if I allow this marriage unbarred and yet, somehow you seem like a man that would not fit. I am curious as to what you think of such a thing, I am also curious as to what it is that my wife has to say as well.” He stated with a nod, casting a glance back to Liliandil once again, his brow arching as he inquired as to what it was that she had to say at this point.

[/font]

[Erech]

Erech's piercing blue eyes gazed straight forwards, they did not switch from royal to royal. He stature stayed straight and poised. He was not a royal, but he was not scum either. Erech was a Ranger of Ellsinora, a man who served his country with his heart forged within his bow. He eyes finally scanned towards the King as he began speaking. Often refers to his wife's judgement. Erech knew the Queen had full control over the King, she was the decision making and the situation seemed gloomy. He listened and spoke in turn as King Crevan spoke to him.

"I would perform whatever duties necessary of me if you was to grant me your blessing. My only wish is to make your daughter happy. My heart is already with her for a lifetime. I am not be of royal heritage, but my honour, my heart lies with Ellsinora and Princess Alexa. I am ready to deal with anything thrown at me for your daughters hand in marriage."

Erech then paused, looking at the King and Queen of Ellsinora. This woman, the Princess, he had fallen for her, his thoughts long ago had seen him settle with a common woman, to live and serve Ellsinora as he had been all his life. However, many things change, his future being one of them. Erech knew what marriage with the Princess entailed and he was ready for it. He wanted only Alexa's hand, the title didn't concern him but he would rule as the last King did. Only Erech would ensure his rule decreased the barrier between the rich and the poor. Erech then listened as the King further insulted him. His reply, one of honesty.

"You are right, I do not fit into such a palace. But, if this castle was to become mine, I'm sure I would fit in just as you do now, Sir."

Erech finished his words with a curt nod as his eyes moved to the Queen. He was expecting the same brutality as Princess Abigail. Yet his figure, the way he stood, the way he dorned himself with such fine cloth, the way he looked at the Queen. He was ready to take on whatever comes with Alexa's hand.

[Deidra]

Liliandil watched as her middle child waltzed into the throne room and took a seat beside her. Abbie was her favorite daughter indeed but as she spoke the queen became quite annoyed with her. She very much agreed with what she said it just angered her that her daughter had managed to voice it before her. Liliandil sat up straighter in her throne her face turning even more bitter looking as her mood turned foul. The only thing that kept her from addressing Abbie was the King speaking to the man standing before them holding their eldest daughter’s hand in his. She let out a scoffing sound as she looked over the two, yes he man had somehow gotten ahold of nice clothes but it still sickened her to think that her daughter, her heir to the throne, would pick such a lowly man as her choice of a husband. She waited as the man came to speak his reply to her husband and as he looked at them both before she finally spoke to her husband voicing her opinion on this odious idea.

She cleared her throat loudly before speaking in a clear, imposing voice “Might I make it known that though yes this man has seemed to show some respect to how one in a royal duty should dress, but I have my concerns of a man with, shall I say, much less than royal blood flowing through his veins, taking the hand of my eldest daughter in marriage. Already within these castle walls holds our youngest daughter heavy with child, the father of non-royal blood. I, as a mother and the current Queen, do not see it fit that a regular townsmen take the place next to our daughter as the future King, however well he might believe he could run the country.” She ended with a curt nod to Crevan and returned her scowl upon then man whom she disapproved.