Raiha Posted November 13, 2007 Share Posted November 13, 2007 [COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"]Cast: Her Grace: Lady Di Ahn Chang Revolutionary Incognito: Author Dolan Upton Revolutionary Criminal: Librarian Eoghan Kearney Counter-Revolutionary: Chief Superintendent Richard Stark Second Class Citizen: Artist Mikhali Sumerkalis His Royal Majesty: King Edward Steven Windsor His Grace: Lord Dewi Jones Her Royal Majesty: Queen Elisabeth Helena Hohemburg Slave: Iki Monroe Pirate: Anarchist Catherine 'Kathy' Ellen-Mary Robertson Second Class Citizen: Laborer Dieter Ergheiz Rosenburg [center]~~~~~~~~~~~~~ [i][b]In Year of Our Lord Two Thousand And Seven, a strange thing happened. An interloper, a traveler from another realm came to see us. Whether by some strange accident or by an act of God, it was here that he came. And here he stays. Be it magic or the Fates, this child came to rest in the palm of this world’s hand. It held him fast, keeping him still, but he brought with him more than just his body. His mind and his heart were so much more than we had thought at first. He brought ideas so dangerous, that they burned the hand that held him. And when it let him go, it had to let go of others. Thousands heard his story, then millions. People everywhere learned of what he’d done, what words he’d spoken. And this world of ours became something better.[/center][/b][/i] [i]Her Ladyship, Chang Di Ahn, knelt before her vanity table, admiring her reflection. One of her many servants knelt besides her, adjusting a hair ornament before adding several pale lilac flowers made of silk. Di smiled vaguely and waved her off with a light flutter of her hand. Alone again, she leaned forward, pursing her lips carefully, scrutinizing the red tone of her cosmetics. Satisfied, she leaned back again, then slowly rose to her feet, the sound of silk shuddering through the air, the click-clacking of many pieces of jewelry alerting her servants that their lady was about to descend upon them. One leapt forward and straightened the train of her gown while another opened the door for her. She swept along grandly, secure in her position, utterly unconcerned with the discomfiture of her underlings. It was her birthday after all. Her day.[/i] “My lady, you look so lovely.” “That shade of pink is beautiful on your cheeks.” “Would you like something to drink?” [i] She brushed off their words the way one brushes away the fly flitting around the rice bowl. Completely pleased with herself, Di knelt before the family altar, lighting the sticks of incenses herself, praying for success and good fortune as always. Then she turned and looked down the hall of her family's summer home. It was empty as it always was at this hour. But soon it would be full of people, friends and family. Well-wishers would fill the courtyard, making speeches for her continued health and prosperity, politicians hoping to curry favor with the first blood heir of the House of Chang. Her brother was yet still young, and her younger sister would never be anything but a prize for some lucky noble. Di reflected calmly, as she walked through the absolute stillness that she was indeed lucky herself, to be born in this day and age, and into this family. In this time, she would make her mark. But for now, she would content herself with enjoying her birthday. With luck, her cousins had bought her a new present. And a new present it was, in the form of a boy, not more than 20, barely out of puberty. They had him step forward slowly, kneeling at her feet, even as she was sprawled across a veritable sea of cushions. He didn’t kneel right away, but she was sure he was about to, when one of her male cousins shoved him face down on the floor before her. The first thing he was aware of, past the obvious cold of metal on his neck from the collar, and the icy cold of the marble floor, was the sound of his new mistress’s voice, hissing across the room. Sharp and harsh, it carried with it the feel of one used to being obeyed.[/i] “Unhand him. That boy is my property now, and it won’t do to have him dirtied up right away. That’ll be later.” [i] Di smiled in the face of her cousin’s reproving scowl. He slouched away and she snapped out a command to her new slave. The boy jerked his head up like he’d been stung and accidentally looked his new mistress full in the face.[/i] “Well you’re a pretty one. Aren’t you.” [i] A flash of haughty brown eyes, the creamy color of her skin, and high cheekbones framed by dark brown hair and glittering ornaments. Silver and gold flashed in her hair and around her neck, and she leaned forward slightly to get a better look at him.[/i] “You’ll do nicely. Or not at all.” [i] He didn’t flinch to his credit, but kept his face empty of emotion. She liked them that way.[/i] [/FONT][/COLOR] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gavin Posted November 13, 2007 Share Posted November 13, 2007 [SIZE="1"]Placing back a copy of Alexander Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo" back on the thick oaken shelves of the Berlin's main public library, Eoghan watched the silent activity going on around him in the capital city of the German Empire. He enjoyed reading and rereading the classic novel, which thanks to it's dubbed "treasoness" ideals had made it quite hard to acquire outside of the closely guarded revolutionary channels. It was only natural then that Eoghan would place it on display in a library, allowing others to gain access to the book and it's message of freedom. The secret police would be drawing closer to him, ever six months Eoghan would up and disappear in the middle of the night, leaving only a note on his bedside stand addressed to his great nemesis Richard Stark. He considered it to be something of a battle between the two men, allowing the secret police to think they were getting closer and closer to him, only to up and disappear in a flash. Vienna was his next stop, Eoghan enjoyed the idea of being able to look on the Danube, it reminded him of his homeland. Rearranging several other books into their alphabetical order, the Irish exile was woken from his daydream by a sharp cough. Turning he came face to face, or rather face to bald-patch with his employer Herr Ludwig Von-Wolfhausen, a kind man though fiercely loyal to the Empress, he and Eoghan had discussed much in the way of philosophy, though both had shied away from the subject of politics. ?[b]Ja, Herr Von-Wolfhausen ?[/b]? He gave his best impression of surprise, which, given the look of concern on Ludwig?s face and the sinking feeling in his stomach, was not hard to generate. ?[b]Eoghan, you must leave immediately.[/b]? His voice was barely above a whisper, through fraught with emotion. ?[b]What?s wrong Ludwig ?[/b]? ?[b]There are three men outside watching the library. From their accent, I would say they are British... and well, I thought of you...[/b]? Eoghan was in that moment very close to hugging the elder man, who had come to be like a father to him. Not many people would go out of their way to keep him safe. The look of surprise melted from his face into one of concentration, it seemed the secret police had managed to track down his work place, but they still could not barge in and try to take him, Germany?s own secret police had little time from foreign spies. Clasping Ludwig?s shoulder, Eoghan merely smiled and walked slowly towards the back exit to the building used by staff, he had made it half way down the alleyway when a voice hissed behind him. ?[b]Well well, who do we have here ? Eoghan Kearney, Fenian bastard and terrorist.[/b]? Turning, Eoghan came face to face with Reginald Hyde-Parker, a secret service captain who still bore a dull scar down his cheek from a similar meeting in Edinburgh three years beforehand. The single shot pistol hidden up Eoghan?s sleeve pressed hard against his skin, there was plenty of activity, so chances were the shot wouldn?t be heard. When two further men stepped out of the shadows though, the situation became considerably more grim. ?[b]So Reginald, seems that you?ve finally captured me... I imagine old Dick might give you a medal for being such a good chap. Tally-ho, God save the King and all that bollocks.[/b]? If there was one thing in the world that Eoghan could count on, it was that the Crown?s secret police, no matter how well trained, always reacted badly when you smeared the King. Instantly Hyde-Parker?s arm fly up and the spring-loaded knife lying within his coat shot out towards the Irish rebel, his intention of capturing turning to one of kill quite quickly. Deftly he dogged out of the dagger?s flight path with a heel twist, slamming his fist into the nearest agent?s face, the man crumpled as another knife impacted into the wall just beside Eoghan?s head. Blessing himself for the weapon?s lack of accuracy, he removed his own pistol and dropped the man in a shot to the chest. After a moment, only the two original men remained upright. Eoghan was breathing hard from adrenaline, while the secret police captain removed a pistol from within his coat and snarled. ?[b]You?ll pay for that you Irish bastard !![/b]? This was not a good situation, Eoghan had no weapons left on him, and the alleyway was practically bare, apart from the steam vents...which gave him an idea, but he needed to keep Hyde-Parker talking, otherwise the game was over. ?[b]Can?t shoot me Reginald, Sir Stark will want me alive for questioning, try to get names and descriptions of the other rebels in my unit.[/b]? He seemed to consider this for a moment, but his aim remained firmly on Eoghan?s heart. The steam currents around them created a sort of ethereal quality to the conflict. Eoghan had practically given up hope, until a shout and an old hand wrapped around the base of a cane charged out of the steam, the next few moments played at an agonising slow pace, as the pistol turned to face Ludwig?s chest, and the ball exploded from the barrel, burying itself deep in the old man. Eoghan couldn?t hear himself screaming, he couldn?t hear anything other than the beat of his own heart. He dashed forward, knocking Parker off his feet and into the wall, grabbing the cane he simply lashed out and struck numerous blows, until the gilded handle was covered in blood. Turning, he fell to his knees next to the old man, tears pouring down his eyes. ?[b]Herr Von-Wolfhausen ?[/b]? It was a plaintative whisper, begging a response. ?[b]Eoghan ?[/b]? His eyes fluttered open for a moment, the blood in his mouth told Eoghan he didn?t have long. ?[b]I?m here.[/b]? ?[b]Fucking English.[/b]? Eoghan actually laughed, a pair of tear droplets falling to the ground. ?[b]Yeah, fucking English Ludwig.[/b]? ?[b]You need to go my boy...live on...free...[/b]? The old man?s eyes rolled back up into his head, biting his lip, Eoghan dashed away from the scene, towards the train station and Vienna...[/SIZE] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
P.J. McKrafty Posted November 13, 2007 Share Posted November 13, 2007 [FONT=Arial][B]OCC: I redid my post due to the fact that my initial attempt was shit. [/B][/FONT][center]------------- [/center][FONT=Arial] Dolan was feeling a mixture of confusion and discomfort. He knew that he was invited because of his new play, which has recently been preformed in this exact city by a premier Chinese acting troupe, but he knew not by whom he had made the impression and how they were able to get the invitation to him after he had labored to make it difficult for the secret police to find him. He was uncomfortable for two simple reasons; he is never comfortable in formal attire and that he was surrounded by people who were as fake as the millions of nails you could buy that came from the original crucifix.[/FONT] [FONT=Arial][/FONT] [FONT=Arial]A man passed by and paused holding out a platter with many nice glasses filled almost to the brim with a greenish-blue wine. He took one off and nodded to the man, the man withdrew and without even thinking he downed the entire glass. Dolan let out a loud cough and a wheezed breath, the drink had the taste of soap water and the strength of Russian potato vodka.[/FONT] [FONT=Arial][/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial]“It looks more pleasant than it is,” [/FONT][/B][FONT=Arial]Dolan turned to see a young English woman, not even a day over twenty-five. She wore a bright blue dress and had a folded oriental fan in one hand holding out her other. [B]“Kaitlin Hall.”[/B][/FONT] [FONT=Arial][/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial]“Collin Bringsfield.” [/FONT][/B][FONT=Arial]Collin said taking her hand bowing and lightly pressing his lips to it. She let out an obviously fake giggle and withdrew her hand. [/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial]“I must say, when I saw your play I imagined you to be an older man, and not nearly as handsome.” [/FONT][/B][FONT=Arial]Dolan let out a small laugh. [/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial]“Thank you, I guess I write years ahead of my age.”[/FONT][/B][FONT=Arial] She giggled and grabbed his arm leading him towards a large canopied section of the courtyard. There was the woman of the hour. A young attractive woman sat upon a bed of cushions. Kaitlin led him to the front of the crowd to get a better view. Dolan watched as a few men lead a younger man in front of the hostess. Dolan watched the men shove him to his knees and had the urge build up in his chest to tell them how cruel and animalistic they seemed to treat a fellow human being like that. [B]“If you will excuse me,”[/B] he said shooting a fake smile to Kaitlin and freeing his arm from her grasp. [/FONT] [FONT=Arial]He walked past the man who was still serving the drinks and snatched one off the platter and downed it, this time he gritted his teeth to the taste and he paced on the outskirts of the party trying to cool himself. He had never been bother by anything like this before. He finally calmed himself down after his third drink and the whole thing left his mind.[/FONT] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blayze Posted November 13, 2007 Share Posted November 13, 2007 [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Stark had ensured that his men had totally hollowed out the revolutionary safehouse, taking everything that could be seen as being anti-monarchistic and dragging it out to the back garden, where men and women were being forced to kneel on the ground, their hands shackled. Stark's hard leather shoes clicked on the cobbles as he paced up and down the line, his hands behind his back.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Seems to me we have a problem here," [/B]he said, his voice crisp and clear in the cold morning air, clouds of vapour billowing from between his lips as he spoke, [B]"The King is not happy. He finds the very idea of people like you opposing him in his very own country sickening. The King is sick, you ignorant dogs, and when the King is sick, we do everything we can to make him feel better."[/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Does lickin' 'is arse make 'im feel better?" [/B]asked one with a thick West Country accent, most of his teeth missing, the ones remaining black with rot. Stark's head snapped around to look at this wretch, and he strode over to him, long black cane in hand, and he cracked the metal bulb on the end into the side of the man's head with a single, fluid motion. The man fell sideways to the floor, unable to clamp a hand over the gout of blood that was pouring from his temple.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Does anybody else feel like admitting they are a traitor not fit to lick the boots of our mighty King? Or must I make an example of this man?" [/B]boomed the Chief Superintendent. He was met with silence, and stony faces all round.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Very well," [/B]he said, signalling to two of his men, who grabbed the man by the shoulders and dragged him over to the garden wall, where they slung the chain of his shackles over a tree branch, leaving him hanging limp. They then proceeded to rip every shred of clothing off the man's back, exposing dirty skin, patched red with an awful rash in places. Stark strode over to the prisoner, held up his cane, and smacked the object into the man's back, which resulted in an ear-piercing scream. He raised the cane again and hit him over and over again until fresh blood poured out of the wounds. Then he signalled to another of his men, who went inside the house, and after a lot of banging and crashing, came out with a barrel under his arm. He began to splash the liquid inside over the man's wounds, and this ended in more ear-piercing screams as the metallic smell of fresh blood mingled with the acidic scent of vinegar in the air.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"This is what happens to those who oppose the King. And you don't think anyone will miss him, do you?" [/B]said Stark, wiping the smear of blood off the end of his cane with a pristine white handkerchief. He drew a pistol from inside his coat, turned and in a graceful motion levelled the weapon and fired. The man slumped, dead, as a red shower erupted from his chest.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Now let's see what we have here," [/B]Stark said, wandering casually over to the pile of confiscated materials, consisting of paintings, tapestries, books and other such banned items. As he knelt down to look at some of the items on display, the women in the line-up weeped, the men raging at their sides.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"What's this?" [/B]asked Stark, holding up a picture of a man in woman's clothing, a particularly crudely-drawn piece of artwork, [B]"Is this...the King? Dressed as a woman? Did you really think this would bring down the state? You are pathetic, you fucking disgraceful, cowardly revolutionary pieces of filth." [/B]He got to his feet, throwing the painting down onto the pile with vigour. Turning to his men, he simply said:[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Burn them. Burn all of them," [/B]and then, gesturing towards the row of people, [B]"And then kill them all."[/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Stark strode masterfully out of the garden, to the screams and pathetic protests of the men and women in the garden. He pulled a silver hip flask from his jacket, twisted the cap off with all the precision of a well-trained alcoholic, and drained half the flask, shuddering as the viscous liquid burned his throat.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]A good morning's work, by any measure.[/SIZE][/FONT] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew Posted November 14, 2007 Share Posted November 14, 2007 [size=1]Hooves and wheels collided with cobble. The horse drawn cart pulled up outside its destination. A lavish place to be sure, a beautiful Summer house with many tell-tale signs (at least for an educated man) of Chinese ownership. Even if Lord Dewi Jones hadn't already known he was visiting a noble Chinese house for the birthday of it's heir. [I]Strange[/I], he thought, [I]Not often that Chinese nobilty have their Summer home in Nice, France. Especially with all the dirty French people.[/I] The last part flared his nostrils slightly with distaste. As the door to the cart was opened for him, Dewi pulled on his black leather gloves to complete his fine suit. He stepped down with all the grace and finesse that was expected of him and tilted his head slightly in thanks. Dewi always felt the little people deserved at least some praise. He took several paces to the steps leading to the courtyard where he was met by four Chinese guards. Bowing low and graceful he handed a set of papers to the first guard who nodded to the others and the gates opened steadily. As Dewi took the last few steps up to the main entrance he remembered the meeting that dictated his presence here in Southern France. Although French was one of the many languages he'd learned to speak fluently, as was his occupation, Dewi had always disliked France. He'd been called before one of the King's most trusted advisors. As usual, the Mighty King of England himself was either too busy or too lazy to speak with a dirty Welsh dog. Relations with China had been somewhat strained of late, he'd explained, and rekindling their relationship was left in Dewi's capable hands. Although how this birthday celebration had any relevance was beyond Dewi, but as usual, he obeyed and didn't question. Heading through the door he was greeted by an attendant who instructed him on the directions necessary to reach the royal birthday girl. With flawless precision and pride in his stride, Dewi reached the tall double doors (again guarded by grunts) and was led in. A middle-aged man in traditional Chinese garb annouced his name and presence while Dewi stopped a few steps away from the bed of pillows and bowed deep. [B]"Lady Chang,"[/B] He began before continuing with flawless Chinese pronounciation, [B]"[I]I am Lord Dewi Jones, Ambassador of his Royal Highness of Great Britain and representative of the Noble Family Jones of Cardiff, Wales. It is my great pleasure to wish you a very good birthday with many happy returns.[/I]"[/B] He kept his head low and did not speak until she replied. She seemed impressed, but he knew his accent was a bit off, after all, he hadn't practiced his Chinese for quite some time. [B]"Very good Lord Jones,"[/B] She returned, impressed enough to proceed straight to speaking English, [B]"Do you have a gift for me?"[/B] Dewi stood up straight and proud but avoided looking her directly in the face, not wanting to offend her. [B]"If it pleases your Grace I could play for you? I am well versed musically, and clasically trained with both the Cello and the Piano from four years after birth."[/B] Di smiled fully, displaying her perfect white teeth and gestured to two attendants. They quickly returned, one with a chair another with a case that unmistakably held a Cello. The chair was placed behind him and the case handed to him. Dewi nodded to them and proceeded to open the case. It was indeed a fine specimin, one of the finest Cello's even Dewi had seen. Removing his gloves and overcoat, Dewi quickly wiped his hands with a cloth from his pocket and set the large instrument astride his legs. Picking up the bow, he closed his eyes and began to play. First a beautiful, high-pitched and slow melody wound its way from the instrument drawing the attention of many spectators. Dewi gradually brought in lower notes, alternating between major and minor cords and steadily upping the tempo. As he progressed his fingers moved faster and faster, playing more frantic and speedy tunes. The look of delight on the female heir's face was unmistakable. [I]She likes it fast then[/I] he thought to himself before upping the tempo again. His fingers moved as if directed by lightning and the bow licked at the strings as fast as a deadly snake bite. The tempo progressed yet again as Dewi built up for the climax of his original piece and finished to a room full of applause. Dewi stood, bowed as was his custom and took his seat awaiting further instructions.[/size] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Vicky Posted November 14, 2007 Share Posted November 14, 2007 [size=1][i]ooc: I'm a bit iffy about this post, so tell me if I should change anything.[/I] The HMS Legacy, a dominating ship in the British Empire, built on British land and ‘liberated’ by Marcus Stallion two years later. Although the ship now, after seven years, has been left alone by Britain seeing no reason to want an old vessel, the HMS Legacy still provides a home for the criminals and traders of the century. It may not have been brand new, but the Legacy was a grand ship indeed. It was only a third-rate ship of the line, carrying only two gun decks, but it was faster and easier to handle than any other ship the British had come up with, containing an impressive fire power but, more over, the cunningness and creativity of its crew. The decks were a dark brown, almost black, with only one white, the rest having been replaced by a midnight colour black due to the Captain’s protest that the “white made the sun get in his good eye”, and not having enough sheets to cover every sail on the ship. The afternoon was looking good, for once, without a sight of storm or even a wave above an inch showing anywhere in their vision. The decks were dry from the lack of storms over the night, the crew either lolling around or not doing any work at all, except for the very few who seemed to be more dedicated and loyal to their home. As criminals, the majority of them were quite young and tough – there were only a minority that were old, fat and drunk. They didn’t do much at all, except serve as a reason to throw people overboard in a fit of rage. Two sets of boots sounded across the deck all of a sudden, coming up the stairs and travelling on the starboard side. One pair of footsteps was distinctly lighter than the other, the heavier footsteps seemingly belonging to a man with a limb of some sort. Heavier as he was, the man also contained a loud belly laugh, whereas the lighter crewmen only a short smile. The limping man was Captain Stallion, a large, broad man dressed in a stolen admiral’s jacket from other twenty years ago, tattered and torn, as were his boots and hat with feathers tied to the side. His hair was a dark tangled brown, on his head and on the goatee, as well as his eye (the other having been removed some years ago, now covered with a red cloth). Although he limped, Stallion didn’t have a wooden leg which is often told of in folklore, he simply had a bad leg. Beside him was the woman fondly known as Kathy, protected entirely by the Captain himself for many years. She was young and strayed away from her days of Victorian dress and a women’s place; her clothes were cleaning than the Captain’s, with a long Aristocrat’s black jack and a cleaner hat. Her hair was cleaner, longer and a dark shade of black, shiny almost like the boots. She had a knack for keeping clean among criminals. [B]“There’s sure ta be enough fear in there ‘earts ta keep ‘em goin’ ‘til the edges of this world, m’lady. Why on God’s Earth d’you suggest we be ‘eadin’ backwards?”[/B] the brawling man asked. [B]“Maybe I miss British waters?”[/B] Kathy replied, somewhat more dignified than the Captain. He laughed. [B]“Aye, you be understandin’ I be questionin’ yer motives? What after that nasty run in with them ‘ere French navy an’ those Spanish. Sailin’ near homeland an’ we’re sailing close to those twits. An’ I ain’t too fond of Spanish or French designs.”[/B] Kathy sighed, kicking over a sleeping sailor’s hat as she did so who was lolling over the floor. [B]“We weren’t expecting anything like that. I don’t say we go [i]right[/i] up and dock near mainland, I say we find somewhere nice, get a few British supplies, and be on our way. You know. The Empire’s a nice place to cause trouble.”[/B] They came up to the wheel of the ship, up the stairs and to a lazy navigator, who so far was sleeping on the wheel. [B]“Ta think we could’ve bin searchin’ down the depths of the deepest seas for gold and riches, an’ you’re ‘avin’ me sail back near those waters. But aye, I suppose, it could be a good idea.”[/B] Stallion looked to the navigator, who didn’t stir at all. [B]“He’s been asleep every time I get up here.”[/B] Kathy stated with her hands on her hips, raising an eyebrow to the Captain. [B]“Your call Kath m’lady.”[/B] Kathy grinned a wicked, twisted grin she always did when she got her way. She moved to the navigator, who so far smelt of the ship’s supply of run and damp, and grabbed the collar of his beige (almost brown now) shirt, ragging him up. The chubby man was startled for a moment, placing his eyes on Kathy. She hoisted him away from the wheel and, with a violent throw, launched him down the steps onto the main bridge. [B]“Ya can go back ta likcin’ ya Kings boots in about a day, ya bastard,”[/B] the Captain shouted after him. [B]“In fact, you can go early. Get ‘im off overboard!”[/B] There was a laugh from a few of the crew and one large, overpowering African man responsible for the discipline and gunning took up the responsibility of taking the (former) navigator by the scruff of his hair and, in one easy, fast twist of his arm, he threw him off the edge of the ship, sending him plunging down the decks into the North Atlantic Ocean with a joke of ‘man overboard’ from the Captain. [B]“That was fun,”[/B] Kathy stated, [B]“but now, I guess we’re short of a navigator.”[/B] Stallion nodded, almost philosophically, and gazed around his ship. [B]“You there! On the mast! Get up ‘ere!”[/B] he pointed towards one of the youngest on the ship leaning against the main mast, who so far had no job what-so-ever and quite an overlooked character on the Legacy. He quickly scurried up to the wheel, narrowly dodging a few shouts and kicks from other crew members pushing him along. [B]“We’re sailin’ Windward ta British soil, take the wheel,”[/B] the Captain told him. When the boy gave him a confused look, Stallion groaned. “North! That’a way!”[/B] he bellowed, striking the boy at the back of the head and shoving him to the wheel. [B]“We’ll be alright, Stallion, just a quick stop.”[/B] Kathy assured him through the rustling of the criminals finally getting off their backsides to sort of the sails and decks out. [B]“Aye, but I won’t be savin’ [i]you[/i] if you end up lickin’ our Majesty’s boots like ‘im,”[/b] he pointed this thumb backwards over his shoulder, the water and man left behind in the sea. [B]“I ain’t livin’ under those brain dead idiots ‘gain. There’s no money in the business of honesty.”[/B] [B]“You’re so selfless…”[/B] she joked with a grin. [B]“A pleasure, m’lady.”[/B] Stallion took a quick bow and tipped his hat slightly, before limping off down the main deck once again, shouting for the sake of shouting.[/SIZE] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rachmaninoff Posted November 15, 2007 Share Posted November 15, 2007 Edward Steven Windsor was as always taking advantage of a few minutes alone in the private gardens attached to his personal suite. Though dressed in the finest clothing of both satin and silk in rich purples and gold, Edward was without the burdensome outer robes cloak and mantle that he would have rather foregone altogether. The cool and soft autumn breeze among the carefully maintained trees and flower gardens was refreshing and for just a few minutes he could forget that in just a moment he would be required to deal with matters of state. As if that thought alone summoned one of his closest advisor, the sound of leather on stone came from behind Edward, telling him that for now his brief break was over. With the tiniest of sighs he turned to face Jeffery Madison who as always was right on time for their afternoon meeting. He came to a halt, bowing deeply while he waited for Edward to finally address him. “[B]It’s that time already is it?[/B]” Edward asked even though he already knew the answer. Jeffery straightened up. “[B]Yes your Majesty.[/B]” He offered up a copy of the papers with the details of several reports that had come in earlier, waiting patiently while Edward glanced through them, frowning just a bit over some of the details in each one. “[B]So once again Eoghan Kearney has eluded your grasp. And the agents sent to retrieve him are dead.[/B]” Edward was not amused, three men should not have had a problem taking one terrorist into custody. “[B]Yes Sire, along with the Herr Ludwig Von-Wolfhausen who was his employer. I’m afraid that for the moment we have no leads on him.[/B]” Jeffery kept his gaze properly focused downward, knowing that the lose of any of the police service always irritated the King. “[B]He’ll show up again, scum such as him are incapable of remaining hidden for long, anyway, good work on our Chief Superintendent Richard Stark’s part. Those fools never learn do they?[/B]” Edward set the papers for the first two reports down on the elaborately carved wooden bench neatly set along the path and surrounded by bushes. “[B]No Sire, they don’t. Though perhaps it would have been better if some of them were brought in for questioning instead of being killed on the spot?[/B]” Jeffery tried to suggest but Edward silenced him with a wave of his hand. “[B]Don’t be absurd, what could possibly be learned from scum like that?[/B]” Edward folded his arms across his chest, heedless of the creases it would produce in the fabric of his sleeves. “[B]Now more importantly, enough with the attempts to find me a suitable wife.[/B]” “[B]But Sire! The people need a Queen and a future heir to the throne…[/B]” Jeffery tried to protest as he shifted a bit nervously in place. But the King overrode his objections. Making Jeffery nervous with how he simply held the third and yet most important report, the one on the Queen of Germany. But the King had not done more than to briefly look at the first page and had ignored the rest. “[B]Nonsense, should anything happen to me both of my younger brothers are fit to rule. I will not marry just anyone for the sake of delivering a heir for the population.[/B]” Edward crumpled up the remaining papers in his hand, the report about some Queen in Germany, he had not even bothered to read the details as to her circumstances or even her name. Or to even look at the portrait that would have been included. He let go of the crumpled papers, letting them fall to the ground. “[B]You’re dismissed Madison.[/B]” Edward replied in his coldest and most formal tone of voice. “[B]But Sire.[/B]” “[B]Leave.[/B]” Edward turned his back on him and went back to admiring the beauty of the garden, he would not spoil the rest of his afternoon with such trivial matters. He would marry when he was good and ready and not a moment sooner and most certainly not to someone picked out by his advisers. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SunfallE Posted November 15, 2007 Share Posted November 15, 2007 [COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Her Majesty, Queen Elisabeth Helena Hohemburg was ready for the meeting to be over. Even though she had been ruling for just over a year now, her advisers still would push in an attempt to make her decisions for her. It was something that even though she would rather not make all of the decisions, annoyed her greatly. And only served to make her more determined to not be turned into a puppet for the others to use. With a sigh she turned her attention back to what was being said. "[B]It just won't do your Majesty.[/B]" One of her advisers was saying. "[B]Even though Herr Ludwig Von-Wolfhausen was only a librarian he was still well respected. He should be given a proper burial.[/B]" Elisabeth stood up and started pacing back and forth as if deep in thought and then she stopped and turned to face everyone a look of disbelief on her face. "[B]Let me get this straight. This Herr Ludwig Von-Wolfhausen was harboring a known terrorist...[/B]" She paused. "[B]What was his name again?[/B]" "[B]Eoghan Kearney your Majesty.[/B]" "[B]Ah yes, Eoghan Kearney and yet you want me to allow his family to bury him with honors? What kind of fool do you take me for?[/B]" She slammed her fist down on the table. "[B]Do you really want to antagonize the King of England? After we took the trouble to notify him of what happened via carrier pigeon and also made the arrangements to have the three members of his police service who were killed returned to their country?[/B]" Elisabeth sat down and leaned back, disgusted at the obvious attempt to curry favor with the more powerful families in Germany. "[B]Those who know Herr Ludwig Von-Wolfhausen should be grateful that I am not holding them accountable for his foolish actions. I am decided, he will not be given a burial to match his status. And if I find out that any of you have done otherwise you will be stripped of your status as well.[/B]" She looked at each of them directly, though only one or two would ever dream of crossing her and though some of them would have no trouble with her being a mere puppet, they would not risk losing their position either. "[B]Now is there anything else we need to address before we bring this meeting to a close?[/B]" "[B]Only the matter of your eventual marriage your Majesty.[/B]" Her closest adviser said. "[B]You have yet to send any offers to potential and eligible Kings.[/B]" Elisabeth just laughed out loud, and then upon seeing the confused looks of her advisers she just laughed even more. "[B]Oh honestly gentlemen, just how naive do you think I am? There is no need to discuss it since I know perfectly well that you've been sending information about me to other Kings without bothering to ask me first.[/B]" She smiled at the guilty look on their faces. "[B]Did you really think I was unaware of it?[/B]" Elisabeth just laughed even more. "[B]It matters not gentleman, that is something I will decide for myself. Feel free to send as many as you like. I'll turn them all down, even the King of England. I don't care how powerful or influential they are.[/B]" Elisabeth stood up. "[B]Now if you'll excuse me, this meeting is over.[/B]" She turned her back on them and with a graceful swirl of satin and silk she was gone.[/FONT][/COLOR] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raiha Posted November 16, 2007 Author Share Posted November 16, 2007 [i][COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"]His piece concluded, the birthday girl joined in the enthusiastic applause from the audience. As he took his seat, Di suddenly remembered that her new gift was still kneeling in front of her on the cold floor. With a rather pompous gesture, Di flicked her hand, indicating her slave to sit by her feet on one of the dozens of cushions. He did so awkwardly, obviously unused to the Chinese style of lounging, instead sitting cross-legged and stiff backed. The lady of the house leaned forward as the next guests came in, greeted them, accepted their wishes for good health, and leaned back once more as they went off to mingle with the crowd. The courtyard was becoming crowded, packed with guests, all of them invited except perhaps for one or two that would eventually be found. Her chamberlain stepped across the hall to exchange a few whispers with her, while the other guests drank, snacked, and admired the Oriental style gardens that spiraled through the house.[/i] ?A little attention lavished upon the playwright would not go amiss, he doesn?t look like he?s having a great time.? ?Well that makes two of us.? ?My lady?? [i]Di Ahn?s expression darkened briefly until she caught herself and quickly hid it. [/i] ?Most of these people are only interested in my influence. I?m relatively sure that nobody here actually cares one whit about me growing one year older. On the plus side, at least nobody?s approached me with a marriage proposal yet.? ?About that?.there was a delegate from a member of the British court that came by earlier and -? [i]His voice cut off suddenly as he smelled trouble. The Lady of the house frowned as her dark eyes flashed with fire, and the venerable old man that had been her mentor as well as friend for years quickly smoothed his expression over into a bland smile. He gave her a quick bow and went back to his work. Her slave looked at her interestedly, and then quickly went back down to examining the cushions he was sitting on. She leaned over and brought her lips close to his ear. She spoke for his sake in English, with a slight accent, trusting that he would understand her.[/i] ?I want you to ask the playwright to come speak to me briefly. You?ll know who he is. And if you don?t, just ask one of the other servants. Go on.? [i]She smiled to herself in a rather self satisfied way, as he quickly leapt up to do her bidding, even though a look of confusion bloomed on his face. [/i][/FONT][/COLOR] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
P.J. McKrafty Posted November 17, 2007 Share Posted November 17, 2007 [FONT=Arial]The party had filled up to where there was barely enough room for the servants to walk through. You would see a tray periodically pop up over the crowd as a server was forced to squeeze between people. Various groups were spread across the courtyard entertaining people with music, dancing, and clowning around. Dolan would have enjoyed himself immensely so if he surrounded by people who didn?t seem to have a stick up their asses. He had to say that a group of drunken commoners could beat any party full of rich diplomats and entertainers when it comes to the sheer amount of fun you can have. [/FONT] [FONT=Arial]Dolan flinched as he heard a crash behind him. He turned and saw one of the servers frantically climbing to his feet and scrambling for the glasses he dropped. A plump man stood whipping his suit with a handkerchief cursing in what Dolan could only guess is German. Dolan kneeled next to the man and started to help him gather the glasses. The man gawked at Dolan apparently not expecting a man in gentlemen?s garb to help him. Dolan looked at the man and he immediately averted his eyes not trying to offend Dolan. Dolan got to his feet and held out a hand for the servant. He kept his head down and got up on his own and bowed to Dolan then the German man and sped off disappearing into the crowd. [/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial]?Excuse me sir?? [/FONT][/B][FONT=Arial]Dolan spun around to see the man that was the woman?s gift. ?[B]Mistress Di Ahn Chang seeks an audience with you.? [/B]The man made a gesture as for Dolan to follow him. Dolan paused for second pondering why she would and he couldn?t come up with an answer for the life of him. He nodded and followed the man through the crowd. He again approached the canopied area where Di laid. Her gift sat by her feet and smirk grew across her face. [/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial]?Madam.? [/FONT][/B][FONT=Arial]Dolan made a sweeping bow to the woman. [/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial]?Playwright.? [/FONT][/B][FONT=Arial]She replied making a slight bow with her head to him. [/FONT] [B][FONT=Arial]?Most people call me Collin,?[/FONT][/B][FONT=Arial] He shot up straight just now remembering her gift. He rummaged through his jacket pocked pulling out a note pad and pencil which he shoved in one of his front pockets. He then pulled out a red velvet pouch with a decorative design. He held it out and one of the servants standing around her jumped forward grabbing it and handing it to Di. She opened the pouch and pulled out a long silver chain until a golden ball popped out of the pouch. She twirled it looking at the designs etched into the gold. She looked at Dolan wondering what it was. [B]?You open it.? [/B]Dolan said a smile now slowly growing bigger and bigger on his face. [/FONT] [FONT=Arial]She found the silver clasp and opened it. Music instantly erupted from the orb and tiny dancing figures sprouted up inside it bobbing and dancing to the little tune. It ran for a couple more moments until she closed it and placed it back into its pouch. The servant came and fetched it from her he then sped off to place it with the others. [B]"Thank you for the gift,but I couldn't help but notice that you are not enjoying yourself at my party." [/B]A blank look came over Dolan's face, he didn't know what to say. [B] [U]OCC[/U]: I hope it doesn't seem like I'm on painkillers.[/B] [/FONT] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Zen Posted November 17, 2007 Share Posted November 17, 2007 [color=darkred][size=1] The bright Mediterranean sun reflected brightly off of Mikhali’s bare olive skin as he painted the arch over the entrance way of a large mansion. Ordained with fine-detailed vines and olive branches, Mikhali painted with a look of simple bliss on his face. It was true that the Ottomans thought little of Greeks and their culture, but that did not stop them from appreciating their art and craftsmanship. Sweat beads gathered on the surface of Mikhali’s reflection, but the comfortable breeze off the Achean Sea cooled his body, sending his wavy black hair fluttering into the wind now and again. It was times like this that Mikhali appreciated most out of life. The times when he could paint, and enjoy the paradise-like enviroment of Greece. The cool ocean winds and the beautiful sun in a clear blue sky, these things made it nearly possible for Mikhali to forget his position in the social-latter. It was almost heaven. [b] “Hey, boy!”[/b] screamed an aggravated Turkish tongue from behind Mikhali. Turning around slowly he faced his employer, a middle-aged merchant dressed in fine silk robes, his plump face adorned with a thick goatee and mustache. [b] “You take too long! I’m not paying you by the hour, get the job done!”[/b] [b] “Yes, sir… yes, sir.”[/b] Mikhali replied in a broken-Turkish lazily. He picked up the pace on his brush and continued with the vine he was painting. The chubby merchant began departing, leaving with the words, [b] “It better look right, too… our your not getting paid in full.”[/b] As he walked off, Mikhali overheard him say, [b] “…dirty little Cretan.”[/b] Mikhali smirked to himself and whispered to himself, [b] “[i]Malaka…[/i]”[/b] A short hour later, Mikhali had finished his work. He stepped back and looked upon his work, a beautiful doorway adorned with fine embellishments of leaves, olive branches, and illuminations. Despite the customer, Mikhali was proud of his work. It was now nearing the evening. Ready to collect his payment, Mikhali knocked on the main door and awaited the answer. The tubby merchant answered with a grouchy tone, [b] “What? Are you finished?”[/b] [b] “Yes sir. It is all done.”[/b] Backing away, Mikhali moved aside as the large man pushed past him to look upon his work. With a short [b] “Humph.”[/b] and a raised eyebrow, the man frowned to himself and said, [b] “Well, I suppose it will have to do.”[/b] Reaching into robe, he searched through one of many pockets and withdrew a clothe-wallet. Withdrawing a handful of five golden Drachma coins, Mikhali outreached his hand as they were placed within them. [b] “There, now be off. I have guests arriving soon.”[/b] Counting the coins carefully, Mikhali hesitantly said, [b] “S-sir… I believe our agreement was seven drachma.”[/b] [b] “Are you trying to accuse me of something, boy? I am paying you for what you earned.”[/b] [b] “Is there an issue with my work, sir?”[/b] Mikhali’s voice became slightly more forceful and offended, turning a defiant eye to merchant. Wearing a now stern expression, the merchant began to growl, [b] “I’ll hear no more of your back talk, child. You will take what I’ve given you or I will inform the police that you are harassing an upper-class citizen.”[/b] With a sneer on his lips and an arch in his brow, Mikhali hurriedly gathered his supplies into a small sack and hoisted them over his shoulder as the merchant watched. [b] “You should watch your attitude around customers, boy, or I’ll arrange you don’t work in this district again!”[/b] The merchant began insulting and threatening Mikhali more and more. Storming past the merchant, the young man cast an insulting hand at the fat merchant from afar. In an outrage, the fat man waddled to a chase after Mikhali who briskly jogged off and turned away into an alley way in the cities crowded district. This wasn’t the first time Mikhali had been shorted out of money due to similar circumstances. He had faced many discriminating employers before, not to mention the general ridicule he received on a daily basis. Fortunately, Mikhali had worked out a way to get back at the Ottoman’s. Tonight, he would go out, and paint a true masterpiece. And that was worth far more than two drachma. [/color][/size] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gavin Posted November 17, 2007 Share Posted November 17, 2007 [SIZE="1"]Eoghan's lungs burned as he dashed through the streets of Berlin towards the small brick apartment he called home. The spatters of blood from Hyde-Parker?s remains were thankfully hidden by his dark choice in clothing, the ill feeling that came with ending another human life in so physical a way still fresh on his tongue. Stumbling in the door, Eoghan was hopeful that there would not be another squad of Stark?s spectres awaiting him. The abode was silent, everything left in it?s correct place, with no sign of a foreign hand searching for clues of where he was heading next. Removing his coat, waistcoat and shirt, he collapsed in front of his wash basin, suppressing the urge to vomit until he had at least cleaned the few spots of blood that had dried to his hands and face. Cupping his hands into the water, he scrubbed his hands against his face vigorously, and repeated the action several times before he felt sufficiently clean to take the towel hanging next to the basin...only then did he notice it was missing. ?[b]Seems you can?t keep out of trouble can you ?[/b]? In the nanosecond it had taken Eoghan to both recognise the voice and the language, he had simply been prepared to meet his maker, knowing that nothing he could have done would have avoided it. Michael O?Keefe stood there simply holding out the towel for him. ?[b]You have a strange proclivity my old friend in frightening me to very near to death every time we meet.[/b]? ?[b]My apologies. But unfortunately this time I?m here for the worst reasons. Our intelligence network has learned the English know you?re heading for Vienna. The squad I assigned to guard you are dead, and your safehouse has been burned to the ground, so we need to go to our contingency plan...Your Highness.[/b]? ?[b]Don?t call me that.[/b]? Eoghan sighed, not for his own situation, but for the lost lives of those assigned to guard him. He hated it, the fact he was singled out by their blood to be treated differently. It wasn?t that he would make a particularly good High King, but more so, it was that he was a symbol of hope, the idea that even if the British Crown claimed dominance over Ireland, their attempt to wipe out and supplant it?s native royalty had failed. Eoghan had little doubt that if the time ever came in his life when the English had been driven out of the country, he would face the daunting prospect of becoming it?s monarch. ?[b]With respect Eoghan, I?ve known you since you were a boy. I know you don?t like the whole monarch concept, but we?re all freedom fighters, and your keeping yourself alive is the best way you can help fight for that freedom. I?m just thankful the English still seem to think you?re just some common folk-hero rather than the heir to the throne... I?m sure I don?t have to tell you what happened to the others.[/b]? He didn?t, when the English had invaded first, they had wiped out as much of the ruling class as possible. But even then, they had known that some families had gone underground to protect themselves, and even to this day hunted the remaining bloodlines with a sick dynamism. Eoghan pulled the hip-flask free from his jacket and drank back deeply, he had gone into hiding on the continent to protect himself and his identity as much as possible, but in reality he seemed to have little control over his life. ?[b]So what?s your plan ?[/b]? Michael stood there for a moment without saying anything... that was never a good sign. ?[b]We?ve decided to send you to Nice first, they won?t expect it. After that we?ve decided to send you east.[/b]? ?[b]Rome ?[/b]? ?[b]Further. We?re sending you to the Orient. The English don?t have nearly as much sway out there as they still have here. You?ll be safer hopefully.[/b]? After what seemed like an eternity, Eoghan managed to draw in a breath. He had never been sent so far from Ireland before. Suddenly he hated his life with a new passion. Michael to he credit merely stood there, attentive as he had always been, and for a moment Eoghan hated him for it. All he could do in the end though was accept, he was important to others, even if he was willing to die, there were too many others who were unwilling to let him. ?[b]So, why am I going to Nice ?[/b]? ?[b]You?re going to a party.[/b]? Eoghan merely cocked an eyebrow, it was not like his friend to be vague. ||||| Meh, OK, not a great post. The idea of Eoghan being royalty came from a conversation with Crystia yesterday, so blame her. ;)[/SIZE] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raiha Posted November 17, 2007 Author Share Posted November 17, 2007 [i][COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"]“Is something here making you upset? The color of the carpet perhaps? Or the taste of the wine? I know the Oriental vintages are strange to a European’s tongue…” His expression was so bland, so obviously painted over, that she knew, with her years of court breeding, that he was in fact extremely uncomfortable with the goings on. However unfortunate this was, there were appearances to keep up, and with them, obligations.[/i] “I’m having a wonderful time your Grace, regardless of how things may appear.” “Come now, it’d be churlish to lie to your hostess.” “I find that lying is an integral part of every relationship humans have with one another.” [i]Satisfied for the moment, Di leaned back, a sandalwood fan appearing in her hand as if procured by magic. She waved it lazily, fighting back the slow, lazy heat. Collin merely settled him expression into one of blank contentment.[/i] “I must say, I adored your play…” [i]Here she leaned much closer to him, her lips quite literally brushing against his ear, so intimate he could smell a faint scent of old fashioned perfume on her neck.[/i] “…revolutionary.” [i]His features remained frozen in a half pleasant smile, and the lady of the house grinned like a girl at a party; which of course, she was. When his tongue unlocked itself, he managed to speak once more in exceedingly hushed tones.[/i] “I wasn’t aware you held freedom in such high regard.” “On the contrary my good playwright, I adore freedom. Those who don’t have it want it. And are willing to do anything to obtain it.” “And how many slaves have you freed lately?” “Many. My chamberlain is one such freedman. He was given to me as a slave, but freed after five years of service. He remains under my house because he knows what treatment he’d get from my relatives if he left. Every servant in this house, with one minor exception, isn't bound to me as my property any longer, but simply as a servant. When you're as successful as me, you're allowed a little eccentricity. Most people just assume I'm a soft, tender hearted girl.” [i]While Collin kept a mildly skeptical look plastered on his face, Di smiled and reached over to stroke her newest accquisition’s ear.[/i] “And this one will be freed in time too. Provided he serves me honestly and honorably.” “You’ll forgive me for this Madam, but I never would’ve guessed.” [i]Her slave's ears by now had perked up considerably, and he was sitting a little straighter, confused beyond reason. Di shared a conspiratorial smile with him, and then appeared to look slightly beyond the top of his head.[/i] “All fencing aside, Dolan, I’m afraid that your life may very well be in danger if any more of this conversation was overheard. There are several secret police here, mingling with my guests, and I’d just as soon not see you detained. If that happened, how would I be able to enjoy any more of your plays? [i]She laughed aloud, a bright scatter of sound, drawing the attention of a few guests. Unseen by everyone, only felt by Collin, she nudged him with her foot and he laughed as well, smoothly covering over his surprise. She waved him off, riding the wave of light laughter as a convenient excuse.[/i][/FONT][/COLOR] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blayze Posted November 17, 2007 Share Posted November 17, 2007 [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Stark read the message given to him with a poorly supressed feeling of rage building inside him. It was a full report of what had happened when the men he had sent personally to Berlin to retrieve Eoghan Kearney, that most infamous of brigands and something of a nemesis to Stark, and it was not enjoyable reading. The young man who had delivered the message stood nervously in front of the desk that thankfully stood between them, wringing his long, thin hands and occasionally running one through his lank, greasy hair.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Is this a joke?" [/B]said Stark finally, gesturing towards the message, [B]"Did one Irish librarian and an old German man escape the finest officers in the world?"[/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"Actually, s-sir, the German was killed in the struggle..."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"But so was Captain Hyde-Parker, and both of his men. How do you explain that, boy?"[/B] Stark got to his feet sharply, slamming his hands down on the desk, causing the boy to flinch rather unnecessarily.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"I...I don't know how it happened, sir..." [/B]stammered the young man, his eyes flicking between Stark's face and the door.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Get out of my sight," [/B]sighed Stark, sinking back into his chair and watching as the boy scampered out of the door, slamming it shut behind him. He closed his eyes and leaned back in his chair, trying to assess the situation, when he was interrupted by a knock.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Come in," [/B]he said irritably, opening his eyes again and leaning forward. David White, one of the many Inspectors around, walked in and stood in front of him.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"Sir, we've just received new intel regarding one Eoghan Kearney. It seems he is leaving for Vienna tonight, for a safehouse."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Do we know which one?" [/B]asked Stark, his face showing a renewed sense of hope in the chase.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"We do indeed, sir. We managed to intercept a message he was sending warning of his arrival. We already have men in Vienna preparing. All they need is your word."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"How quickly can you get it to them?"[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"As soon as tomorrow morning, sir."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"Excellent. Send word on - I'm going to Europe. When they find Kearney, I want to be the one to rip his heart out."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"Sir, don't you think there are more pressing matters to attend to here? The King's safety, for example?"[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"There is nothing more vital to the safety of the monarchy than apprehending known revolutionaries like Eoghan Kearney. I need to get to Vienna as quickly as possible, and under darkness if at all possible. I need you to arrange this, White, and then pack your bags. You're coming with me."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"But sir, I have important things to attend to..."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"Suspend your duties until we return, Inspector White. I need your assistance in Vienna."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Very good, sir," [/B]replied White hesitantly, [B]"Oh, also, the Assistant Commissioner wanted to see you."[/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"Regarding what?"[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"I have no idea. He said it was urgent."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Very good. Go and prepare for our journey, White." [/B]Stark got to his feet, following White out of the office and heading down the corridor towards the Assistant Commissioner's office. Rapping on the door smartly with his knuckles, he was allowed entry.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Ah, Richard," [/B]said the Assistant Commissioner, a well-built but aging man, [B]"Please, sit down."[/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]"I'd rather not - can we make this brief, Assistant Commissioner? I've got a lot of work to do."[/SIZE][/FONT][/B] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Fair enough," [/B]the Assistant Commissioner took his glasses off his nose and placed them on the desk in front of him, steepling his fingers in front of him, [B]"Richard, we've decided to promote you to Commander. You've done wonderful work, and the results have been nothing short of spectacular. You're an infamous man, you know. We felt that the secret police service needs strong men like you to lead them. Welcome to the real police force, Richard." [/B]The Assistant Commissioner handed over his new badge, which Stark took and replaced his old one with.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Thank you, sir," [/B]he said, stony-faced, [B]"I will do King and Country proud, or I will die trying."[/B][/SIZE][/FONT] [B][FONT=Verdana][/FONT][/B] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1][B]"Well, try not to die, Richard," [/B]said the Assistant Commissioner, [B]"We don't like losing our Commanders. You are dismissed." [/B]Stark snapped a salute and stepped out of the office.[/SIZE][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][/FONT] [FONT=Verdana][SIZE=1]Commander Richard Stark was heading to Vienna.[/SIZE][/FONT] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Zen Posted November 18, 2007 Share Posted November 18, 2007 [color=darkred][size=1] Mikhali could hear the ocean as he approached the docks. His Uncle Stelio?s ship was both a fishing barge and their home. Space on the docks was expensive for Greeks, and they could not afford both dock-taxes and a home to live in. Leaping onto the boat?s wooden deck, he landed silently and continued below-deck through a door which hung loosely on its hinges. The interior smelled of salt water and musk. Luckily the scent of fish had faded with the export of the daily catch. Mikhali could hear Stelio?s loud snore booming from his room. It?d been a tiring day for his uncle, and he praised God that he was asleep. It would make leaving all the easier. Quietly going into his own small room, Mikhali began gathering several different paints and ropes into his already occupied bag. He wanted a bright piece to flair out in the morning. He turned back and tip-toed out of his room and through the inner-deck, trying his best to avoid squeaking boards. Placing his hand on the door-knob, he looked back to his hard-worked uncle and nodded. He then opened the door and made his way out into the Rethymno streets. As much as Mikhali wanted to further insult his former employer, he wanted to go bigger with his piece this evening. Bigger than he?d ever gone before? Navigating through the cobble-stone streets and allies, he made his way on foot to the center plaza of the city. The heart of the coast town, the central plaza acted as an intersection for all the major streets in the town, and literally hundreds to thousands of individuals passed through it every day. It was here that the Ottoman Central Court was located. The largest municipal building the city had, it was here that the ruling part often met. It was the control center of the Ottoman government in Rethymno, where the governor and nobles did their business. It was there that Mikhali decided he would make his mark? Midnight neared, and the city?s police force was beginning to thin out. It was the perfect time to act. Running through the allies of the Central Plaza, Mikhali tied his bag around his waist with the help of a torn-clothe belt and carefully climbed a safety ladder up the side of an adjacent building to the Court. The only thing separating him and his target now was a large gap between the building he stood on top of and the Court. Looking around his surroundings, he made sure no one was watching before he threw his sack across the gap. Then stepping back a few feet, he ran quickly across the rooftop and took a great leap across the gap, landing firmly on the roof of the court before tucking into a silent roll and stopping. Looking over the edge of the Court, he checked for guards and police once again, and saw none. He then turned to the great dome that acted as the roof of the Court and smiled. It was serve him well as a canvas. Reaching into his bag, he poured out bright-green paint onto his trey and picked up a brush. It was time to get back?[/color][/size] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Andrew Posted November 20, 2007 Share Posted November 20, 2007 [size=1]Dewi was quickly forgotten, he turned to place the Cello back into its case as the attendants returned to take them from him. [B]"[I]That's a fine instrument, do take good care of it.[/I]"[/B] He spoke softly, and this time with a more relaxed accent. Each of them bowed, one taking the case from him, the other removing the chair and swiftly vanishing. Dewi put his gloves in his pocket and hung his overcoat over his shoulder while he lazily looked around. Soon, a tray of wine glasses passed him. Dewi snapped up a glass quickly as the attendant carrying it passed him by and took a quick sip, savouring the fine taste. He closed his eyes and sighed deeply, remembering the first time he tasted Asian wine, and indeed the first time he'd tasted wine full stop. Dewi didn't drink often, preferring to stay clear minded and clean in body for his late night activities, but it didn't hurt once in a while to get absolutely smashed. Dewi quickly drained the contents of his glass and reached for another as the attendant returned, but his grasp was beat by a rather dainty and delicate hand to the last glass. Dewi quickly drew back his hand and bowed deeply. [B]"[I]My apologies, M'lady.[/I]"[/B] was quickly followed by a high pitched giggle. Dewi looked up enough to recognise the same pretty features he'd just been playing too, only a little more youthful. Dewi quickly grasped her free hand and bowed even deeper. [B]"[I]Lady Chang, if I'd known it was you, I wouldn't have thought to look at that glass, so much as reach for it![/I]"[/B] He said, still bowing low. She giggled again, this time a little more heavily before reaching for his chin and pulling his eyes to meet her own. She gave a bright smile and then took a quick drink of the wine before speaking. [B]"Please, you may call me Kay Li, Lord Jones."[/B] She spoke, much like her sister speaking in English for his benefit. [B]"Very well Mistress Kay Li, but please, if you insist, I equally insist you call me Dewi. I've never really been fond of being called Lord."[/B] He said, smiling sarcastically. [B]"I know what you mean,"[/B] she giggled before continuing, [B]"So much attention and expectation! It's all very troublesome. Although, that was some wonderful music! I was rather hoping you might play for me like you did my sister... Perhaps in my private quarters?"[/B] She said rather seductively before walking off as if she had no doubts that he would follow. Even if it wasn't expected of him to entertain the high class Chinese family by his orders from the King, he would have followed. And so he did.[/size] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gavin Posted November 24, 2007 Share Posted November 24, 2007 [SIZE="1"]"[b]A party ?![/b]" The frivolity of the comment angered Eoghan greatly. He'd just killed three men, and watched someone he'd come to care for and respect deeply die. Michael seemed to pick up on the frustration in his voice, and returned to his more formal tone of address. "[b]There's a party in Nice for the Chinese Imperial Delegation. You're going to go to the party, Lady Chang is known to have a taste for men of your type, we're hoping if she takes a liking to you that you'll be able to by-pass otherwise problematic obstacles in getting you into the Orient.[/b]" Eoghan said nothing, he really couldn't believe that this was the best O'Keefe and his other guardians had come up with. Send him to a banquet and hope that he could successful seduce or be seduced by a Chinese noble in the off chance that she would grant him passage to China. Safe to say, he still wasn't satisfied with the situation, Eoghan simply shook his head. In response to the gesture, Michael sighed angrily, folding his arms across his chest. "[b]Listen, I know the situation isn't perfect. But nobody was supposed to know about Vienna beyond some very trusted people. For Stark to have learned about it means we've at best had an agent break under torture, and at worst mean we've got a traitor. So unfortunately that means we've got to go outside the box, and this is the best solution that I could see.[/b]" There was no doubt in Eoghan's mind that his friend was telling the truth, Michael had an almost unnatural loyalty to the Irish heir to the throne, and probably couldn't conceive putting him in any kind of situation where there was a chance something could happen to him. For him to be forced into a decision like this meant that there really were no better options. "[b]I'm sorry. I just... a lot's happened.[/b]" Eoghan sounded quite pathetic, even to himself. "[b]I know, trust me though, you're going to be fine... you always are.[/b]" "[b]So how exactly are we going to do this ?[/b]" "[b]We've opted for the simplest approach. We've managed to procure an invitation from Baron O'Griffy, a political ally. You're going to pose as the baron's son, as O'Griffy himself has declined on the grounds of ill-health. You're fortunate, as you and young O'Griffy look quite similar.[/b]" "[b]Alright.[/b]" He was actually becoming more and more reassured by the plan. The English would not expect them to do something like this, if anything, his idea of going to Rome would have been the first place they'd have searched. "[b]There's a train leaving for Nice in about thirty minutes. Your bags have already been packed and are waiting at the station...[/b]" O'Keefe looked away for a moment. "[b]You'd better get going Eoghan, we've no time to waste on this one.[/b]" A hour later, Eoghan was sitting silently in his private booth on the train to Nice, hoping that somehow everything would work out.[/SIZE] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rachmaninoff Posted November 29, 2007 Share Posted November 29, 2007 Now that the afternoon meeting was over, Edward was back in his personal rooms standing with the glass doors leading outside in point blank view. Though his crown was sitting on the ornate chair next to the massive desk arranged so he could work and enjoy the view at the same time, it was unburdened with the heavy mantle as this time he was still wearing it. The thick and soft material resting on his shoulders and clasped just beneath his neck in front and the long heavy material touching the floor cut down on the drafts running through the room. Cold and bitter drafts as the winter rains had begun and even with the fire burning cheerfully at the far side of the room and just to the side of the desk in the dual fireplaces in his personal sitting room, it too was chilly without the mantle or some other form of heavy clothing to keep him warm. Edward just stood there with his hands clasped behind his back as he watched the rain come pouring down. If anything it was a sure reminder that fair weather was over until spring and even then that too could be cold, harsh and far from pleasant. He turned and walked back over to his desk and sat back down once he had set the crown aside on the corner of the desk. He picked up the papers he had been reviewing before he had left for the meeting with his advisers earlier. Not a whole lot had changed, but Edward was not one to slack off and get behind on what was current in his kingdom. One did not maintain a firm rule by sitting to the side and letting others make the shots. England had not come this far and maintained it's secular power by foolishly neglecting her duties. A knock at the door indicated that Jeffery Madison had arrived, closest adviser or not he was not above serving his king personally and today was no exception as he brought in a small tray with hot spiced wine for Edward, setting it down on the desk before bowing slightly and then waiting for Edward to speak. "[B]Take a seat Jeffery,[/B]" Edward indicated with a thrust of his chin in the direction of the chair on the other side of the desk. "[B]I've told you before that such formality is not required between friends when we are in my personal quarters.[/B]" Jeffery just bowed again before he finally took a seat. "[B]Have you reviewed the list Sire? For the Yuletide celebration to be held shortly?[/B]" Edward took a sip of the wine before replying, "[B]I have, and though your attempts to blatantly invite every eligible woman is a bit tiring, I see nothing wrong with the list.[/B]" "[B]Sire, if I may explain...[/B]" Jeffery started to protest but Edward just laughed at him. "[B]Don't take me so seriously Jeff, I know perfectly well that to not invite them would be a mistake. Nothing brings about discontent quicker than a noble who feels left out. No if anything go a little further and invite a few that normally would be considered questionable. [/B]" He leaned back a bit and took another sip of the wine. There had been a lot of discontent lately and even with all of the hard work by Stark and others in the police service, it would be foolish to overlook the ripples of restlessness that were being picked up on. Edward set the glass down before checking on the list again. The names of those who were invited and those who were not carefully written on the paper in neat columns. He picked up a pen, dipped it in ink and then went through and made little marks next to the others who would be perfect to include. Then, finished he slid the paper over to Jeffery Madison. To his credit, other than to raise an eyebrow, nothing else was said. "[B]Anything else Sire?[/B]" He inquired as he got up and made ready to leave. "[B]No, that will be all.[/B]" Edward waited until he was gone before he finished off the wine and then went back to standing at the doors and watching the rain that was still coming down. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
P.J. McKrafty Posted November 30, 2007 Share Posted November 30, 2007 Dolan felt more and more paranoid as he waited for the first course. He made the decision of being one of the first to enter the dining room which placed him in a spot a few seats away from Di. He was extremely hesitant to make any contact with her since the conversation and her warning. Dolan kept his head down trying his hardest not to look at her and make eye contact but every time he looked up he would get it in his mind she was staring at him which wasn’t the case. The first course came they laid out tofu and with other small things that Dolan couldn’t even guess what they were. He tumbled in a silk napkin next to him and pulled two stick from it. He held them for a second trying to figure out how to use the implement before taking it and just stabbing one of pieces of questionable food on his plate. Two things struck him when he placed it into his mouth. The first was that this wasn’t the right was as he saw the family members using it the proper way which was making the younger member laugh at the sight of him and the older stare. The second was that whatever he just placed in his mouth was extremely spicy and was making his eyes water. He picked up the silk napkin and apparently made a spectacle of himself hacking as the spice had apparently made it to his throat. He looked up to see many of the people in the general area to be giving him questionable looks. He then accomplished what he had been trying to avoid this entire time. He looked over and froze as he met eyes with Di who had a small smile on her face. The hair on the back of his neck resumed their standing positions and he almost broke his neck jerking it around. He picked up the fork and tried to continue eating without an incident. He felt a gentle tap on his shoulder and turned to see a rather happy looking portly Asian man who Dolan could only assume was a uncle of some sort to Di. [B]“Excuse me, but I think you might need a bit of help with that, you hold thy like so,” [/B]The man demonstrated the technique of holding the chopsticks and how to pick up food the proper way. Dolan struggled with it showing no ability at all. [B]“Well if all else fails, we have this set out for some Westerners.”[/B] The man pulled a fork from a second napkin on the opposite side of Dolan’s plate. [B]“Its things like this that can make a proper gentleman look like a complete fool,”[/B] Dolan chuckled holding out his hand for the man. [B]“Collin Bringsfield.” [/B] [B]“C.Y.” [/B]The man gave Dolan’s hand a firm grip and it seemed like his already large smile grew larger with every shake making Dolan laugh along with the man. Dolan then was released by the man and thy resumed eating their meal making small conversation. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raiha Posted December 4, 2007 Author Share Posted December 4, 2007 [COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"][i]The Lady of the house sipped tea from her cup with a delicacy that most of the nobles could only stare in wonder at. Being thoroughly Western, her ability to drink daintily from a teacup without a handle was no less than sheer genius to them. She noted that Dolan was safely engaged in pleasant conversation with her maternal Uncle C.Y. and as such would no longer be in any danger for virtually the rest of the evening. Lord Dewi was charming her younger sister with all the grace and charm she'd expect from a blood noble, while the secret police that had been ordered to guard her party looked mildly out of sorts. After hearing of a dangerous revolutionary here, and noting that there was a distinct lack of such, had certainly dampened their moods. Suddenly, Di's nostrils flared and she whipped her head to one side to look down the corridor towards the door. One of the younger cousins, Li Shu had just backhanded her venerable chamberlain for accidentally stepping on his toes. In a blaze of something akin to annoyance, Di Ahn stood in a ruffle of silk, throwing her napkin to one side and excused herself.[/i] "If you'll pardon me everyone, I believe something requires my immediate attention. I'll return shortly." [i]Amidst the nods of her peers and even her superiors, she shuffled down the hall, her skirt fluttering over her toes gracefully. Li Shu was still standing in the middle of the path, with an indignant expression on his overly haughty face. Her mouth twisted in a decidedly unpretty scowl, the mistress of the house grabbed her cousin's ear between two of her fingers, and jerked him so hard he was thrown off balance. He fell to the floor with a quite audible 'thunk' and placed a slippered foot lightly across his throat. She leaned down while waving off her chamberlain with a graceful twist of her wrist.[/i] "...in the event that I ever catch you slapping around my servants ever again, I will chain you to the ceiling and use you as a festive decoration." [i]Li Shu gasped for breath and nodded furiously, or tried to. You try nodding when you have a foot at your throat. She released him in a flurry of fabric and haughty disdain and swept off down the hall to go apologize to the chamberlain. He scurried off, avoiding the dinning room all together. Just as Di Ahn was passing the front door, a knock was heard. She turned in an instant and gestured to her guards to open the door. A remarkably well groomed gentleman bowed to her from the threshold and she automatically let him take her hand.[/i] "Lady Di Ahn? I was sent here to wish you many happy returns of the day on behalf of the O'Griffy family." "Charmed I'm sure." [i]Di Ahn smiled up at him in a dazzle of spark and color, noticing that he did not, in fact, resemble his father in any way, shape or form.[/i] [/FONT][/COLOR] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Gavin Posted December 4, 2007 Share Posted December 4, 2007 [SIZE="1"]She was mesmerising... these were the only words Eoghan could think to describe Lady Di Ahn, in fact, he was quite certain that after the usual platitude he had introduced himself with, he would be quite unable to speak again. The way she was staring at him... assessing him... made him feel strangely self-conscious, as if he was afraid he would not pass whatever standards she was judging him by. "[b]I must say, you bear little resemblance to your good father the baron.[/b]" A chill crept up Eoghan's spine. He hadn't expected her to know O'Griffy personally, to the point where she would be able to comment in such a fashion. Although his face showed no exterior change from the pleasant but formal smile, his mind was racing. He let out a brief chuckle of appreciation to complete his facade. "[b]Yes, I am told that I take after my mother's side of the family. Although my father has, in jest I hope, claimed I am the progeny of our gamekeeper.[/b]" Her laughter was musical, as she waved a hand dismissively at his self-derogatory remark. "[b]I am sure your gamekeeper is not quite so handsome Baron O'Griffy.[/b]" "[b]True milady, but please, call me Connor, I am not a man for formalities in good company.[/b]" He flashed her his most sincere smile. Di Ahn's face seemed to soften at the sound of his first name, as though a wall had been broken between them. The two guards, which instinct told him were secret police watched the pair with a rapt silence, they more than likely did not approve of the informality of the engagement, but had no say in the matter. "[b]Connor...[/b]" She rolled the name along her tongue for a moment before smiling. "[b]Please call me Di Ahn.[/b]" "[b]I would be honoured Di Ahn.[/b]" Eoghan could say with honesty, she was like no woman he had ever met in his life before. She was not like the female soldiers in his guard, nor was she like the endless suitors who were paraded in front of him in an effort to secure the native Irish royal bloodline with a legitimate heir. No, this woman intoxicated him, her intrinsic pride and sophistication, and a warmth and geniality yet beneath this there was... a fire, passion, like nothing he had seen before. Yes, intoxicating was the best word to describe her. "[b]Are you hungry Connor ?[/b]" There was something in her eyes that hinted she did not simply mean food. Or perhaps he was just seeing his own desire reflected in her. "[b]Quite, the journey by steam train was quite draining.[/b]" With a gentle tug she drew him towards the banquet tables across the hall, he noted with some amusement that Li Shu had scurried off into a corner in an attempt to live down his humbling at her hands. The feast before his eyes looked magnificent, gingerly he took a plate of food, as Lady Chang continued to draw him along to a secluded table.[/SIZE] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SunfallE Posted December 10, 2007 Share Posted December 10, 2007 [COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Her Majesty, Queen Elisabeth Helena Hohemburg was not amused as she glared at her closest adviser who was carefully looking elsewhere in her private fitting room as the servants carefully measured her for her newest outfits to be made. Though she was fully covered, she was only wearing the bare petticoats and her corset as different fabrics were being held up and compared to her complexion to see how they would work if turned into a dress. ?[B]You can stop averting your eyes.[/B]? Elisabeth snapped a bit as she toyed with the elaborate card in her hand, the invitation that her adviser had insisted on bringing to her immediately, along with a seamstress and her entourage carrying festive silks and satin materials for dresses. ?[B]I?m sorry your Majesty, but if not for how important this is, I would not have troubled you.[/B]? He said as he bowed and though he finally did look at her, he still kept his eyes carefully on her face alone. ?[B]I already told you that I would not be attending any festivities this year?[/B]? Elisabeth started to say, but for once her adviser stopped her by interrupting. ?[B]Please your Majesty, forgive my rudeness but you cannot afford to slight the King of England by not attending the party you have been invited to. It would not be seemly for you to still be in mourning for the loss of your brother over a year later.[/B]? He explained in a tone of voice that was attempting to pacify her. Elisabeth sighed as she looked at the invitation yet again, reading the details as to what was expected. It wouldn?t be hard to arrange to be gone for a short while and traveling there by train would not take that long, it was just that she would rather not. Last year had been easy, it hadn?t been that long since her brother had died and she had been made queen, turning down invitations had been a simple matter. ?[B]Fine,[/B]? she finally said. ?[B]You can send word that I will attend the party being hosted by the King of England.[/B]? She ignored his outburst on what a wise decision it was until he started in on setting things up for while she was gone. Elisabeth raised her hand indicating she desired silence and then spoke once she had it. ?[B]We can discuss that later,[/B]? she eyed the seamstress who was coming over eagerly along with those who were carrying the materials for making her dresses for the occasion. Wincing at the thought of being required to endure even more fussing over her wardrobe for another couple of hours at least. ?[B]Leave us.[/B]? She commanded her adviser. He bowed deeply before turning and leaving the fitting room, wisely accepting that for now it would be better to wait until later to finish making the arrangements. Though he was unable to hide how pleased he was at getting her to accept the invitation. He did not see Elisabeth's exasperated look as she rolled her eyes and then tossed the invitation aside carelessly onto one of the benches in the room. ?[B]Your Majesty,[/B]? the seamstress said with a formal bow once her adviser had left, ?[B]If I may, I have a suggestion for a newer style of dress that would be most flattering for you.[/B]? ?[B]Fine.[/B]? Elisabeth said resigned to accepting the fact that she would be going. ?[B]So long as it?s not stiff and scratchy I really don?t care what the dress is made of or what it looks like.[/B]? All she was thinking was that the sooner she went and got the party over with, the better.[/FONT][/COLOR] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raiha Posted December 12, 2007 Author Share Posted December 12, 2007 [COLOR="DarkOrchid"][FONT="Times New Roman"][i]Di Ahn smiled sweetly at her newest guest and laughed delicately at his polite nothings while she deftly flicked her chopsticks back and forth across her rice bowl. She watched him with a playful expression on her face and shook her head to clear it in a clatter and patter of gold and silver beads. They framed her face, slithered down her cheeks and spilled down across her shoulders. Connor O'Griffy watched her every move surreptitiously. A less experienced courtier wouldn't have noticed, but nothing slipped past her. She poured him tea with a delicate dip of her wrist, her left hand holding up her sleeve carefully to avoid spilling. As she poured, the amber liquid splashing almost in slow motion, she spoke softly. So softly he had to strain to catch her words. [/i] "I notice also, that you don't recall your mother's side either." "Is that so?" "It is, but you have nothing to fear from me." [i]His height permitted him to look down at her carefully, with his featured arranged in a mask of calm. She looked up at him becomingly through her lashes, and smiled at him almost reassuringly. He would've had an easier time believing her if she hadn't also had a smirk of a wicked grin playing about her lips. The other guests nearby were still eating, chatting, making small talk. She noticed Dolan in an animated conversation with her Uncle, both gesturing wildly with teacups and chopsticks. Then her attention refocused on her mildly uncomfortable guest, and her smile slowly morphed into a simple purse of her lips.[/i] "After all, you're my guest regardless of who your parents were." "Should that reassure me, my lady?" "Always." [i]Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed the food winding down. The fruit had already been passed around, and the wine as well. Some of the guests were standing and drifting towards the well lit courtyard. And the musicians were bringing out erhus, lutes, and flutes. The drummers had already been set up hours ago. She turned to her guest, who for some reason reminded her of another noble Irish family, and flashed him a girlish grin.[/i] "Dance with me." [/FONT][/COLOR] Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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