Just as she was forsaken by her homeland, she would be welcomed at the Titanic estate--though there were no shortages of concerned looks or insistants for her to be taken care of...
Alas, some were simply beyond it. Bernard, tired, busy yet, hadn't the resources in time or patience or manpower to see to defying the former princess. And so he let her go, seeing that the illusion would hold for at least a little while. He just hoped it held until lunch was concluded; he sighed: Dixon was quite the talker when it came to such important matters as these.
Bernard followed Esther and held a chair for her just as he had done for the others; Dixon seemed to perk up to a slight degree more at her arrival at the table.
--"you see, it doesn't bother me so much who is running the empire; it has simple outlived its usefulness--" he was saying as Esther appeared in the periphery of his hearing, steps graceful as they were--if only in his memory--visage as poised as her namesake would allow. Perhaps that was something to consider when thinking of the women of the House Drosselmyer.
--"The princess Esther Drosselmyer has come straight away as asked, master." Bernard, holding that stiff upper lip, seemed to hold the count's gaze knowingly, waiting for some hidden code to bring him his covert approval. Being behind the princess, the silent exchange would be left to the other two guests to interpret.
"... Very good, Bernard. To the front."
"At once, sir." A short bow--and one for the princess as well--and the head butler of the house was away to his primary duty of managing the rest of the staff. Dixon smiled and inclined his head to the princess with warmth. The conversation would have to begin again; he made it a point not to tell any of them who might appear next.
"Well then," began the count with a soft clap, "I trust you all made it alright. I'd like to start again, but I believe the princess can catch up quite well on her own." He allowed a slight pause, making a point to catch eyes with all of them before picking back up.
"As you know, the empire has begun a change of management, as it were. It means little to me. As I have said, this changes is little else but the reflection of changes already in motion in the realm--democracy, refined education, our own rebirth here in Ethe to name some of the most immediate--so I cannot pretend to think it means that any one leader can claim to be the head of such change. That is, we in Ethe have elected not to follow one result of such changes but prefer to remain as drivers of it." His smile was steady and proud, obviously reminded of his strides with leadership in his own country.
"What I have planned to propose to you all today is really a simple thing: to keep moving forward as we have been; to hold one neighbor accountable without the stifling bureaucracy of one throne above us; to view ourselves as equals--in majesty, honor, worth, and all that comes with being a sovereign nation instead of as in quasi-states in one world-spanning nation." His eyes were the same, fiery with passion and sincerity, as always when he meant to be taken seriously. "I believe all kings and queens and their peers can regard each other as such without an empire at all. Further, I believe each nation's leader could accelerate the growth of their country exponentially without answering to Lionis."
"The capital is doing fine," said the count rather flatly. "May it come as no surprise that they need no more help in order to flourish." He held up a hand. "But, I say these things not with bitterness. Lionis as an empire has outlived its necessity, its usefulness; Lionis as a kingdom is very much respectable, a valuable trading partner. Should we make an enemy of those that bind us by recognising too late that staying in such an arrangement has already begun to weaken the fair nations of this land?"
"What I will propose to each of you today is perhaps more simple," continued the count, now turning to the princess Drosselmyer. "Esther Drosselmyer, fair as can be, your lands and title were unfairly stripped from you," said the count, laying out what should have perhaps remained a secret of those that had attended the meeting (however with the group already away of those points covered, it seemed little issue). "I know that you have fought only when it was necessary in the past, and like your sister to my left you have a gentle soul. The fear with which Lionis has taken your birthright from you shan't be ignored by this count, which is why we are offering you asylum here in my lands of Titania and Etelan." He punctuated this promise with a smile, sure that he was doing right by his code. He had helped her father before, after all.
"In exchange, I'd expect a labor quota to be maintained and able bodies for my militia. As long as your people work and protect what you have made, you will have a home in Ethe, of this I promise." Next up, the duke.
"In the course of our regrowth, Ethe has developed its metal refinement programs. We are now able to capitalise on the vast amounts of raw material our land has blessed us with. Soon we will be completely independent as far as arming ourselves goes, and soon after that we will have a new generation of capable soldiers." His smirk was his voucher. "I have trusted your men these past years, but I believe the agreement we had is in need of a change--to its logical final evolution, of course."
"A full, joint-militia between House Xerseis and House Titanus; the fights of House Xerseis will be the fights of House Titanus, and vice-versa. Do this now, and we shall grow together; all our finest metals and warriors will be yours." Perhaps it hadn't been formally declared. Dixon, it seemed, was tired of the charade. "... Forever."
"And, not least of course, Queen Llewellyn." Dixon nodded a short but respectful bow to Elentiya and continued with the last of his personal proposals. "It has come to my attention that Zalto has begun to stagnate in its jewerly income somewhat recently. Just so, Ethe's mines are not infinite." Dixon seemed to hate both these details the same, mentioning both with a regretting grimace. "--Nor do we have the fashion or tapestries we were once famed for, though progress is being made."
"My proposition is simple, your highness: jewels for our tapestries and other works for refined gold and silver for your gems." He smiled and held up a finger about an inch or so from the table. "Also, I am prepared to offer the best schooling for the peerage and prominent of Zalto, as well as your pick of our artists for commissions--because your house of all should deserve to be immortalised whenever possible." With that, the count leaned back, seeming to be satisfied with what he had said. He expected contest, but that was what preparation was for.
Location:: Gardens Company:: Dixon, Baby Sister! (And some other guy) Clothing:: princess outfit Feeling:: Happy and tired Condition:: Damaged and Fatigue Currency:: $0 EC Items:: Her Arcana cards and Twin Hidden Daggers Active Cards::
(For more info click her photo) 0 The Fool:✔✔✔ I The Magician:✔✔✔ II The High Priestess:✔✔✔ III The Empress:✔✔✔ IV The Emperor:✔✔✔ V The Hierophant:✔✔✔ VI The Lovers:✔✔✔ VII The Chariot:✔✔✔ VIII Justice:✔✔✔ IX The Hermit:✔✔✔ X Wheel of Fortune:✔✔✔ XI Strength:✔✔✔ XII The Hanged Man:✔✔✔ XIII Death:✔✔✔ XIV Temperance:✔✔✔ XV The Devil:✔✔✔ XVI The Tower:✔✔✔ XVII The Star:✔✔✔ XVIII The Moon:✔✔✔ XIX The Sun:✔✔✔ XX Judgement:✔✔✔ XXI The World:✔✔✔
OOC::
Princess Esther Drosselmyer of Lionis
My word, what fun had she been missing here? Dixon spoke of things like he and the others had some sort of operation going on, a business venture with a grand span of influence, and such a view of her friend was quite impressive. She always heard that he was the rabid wolf of Etelan yet he sounded so much smarter than some stupid beast yet his eyes held a power to it that was primal and true. Quite exciting to see Dixon in this kind of light. Strange that he would speak to his sister as well but hearing what he asks of little Elentiya, and the silver haired one from Phobos, she understands just what it truly is Dixon is doing here.
"Dixon, you speak of my gentle soul but I think you neglect to give credit to your own sometimes. For you to offer me such safety knowing it might make things complicated between you and the empire is a kindness I can't begin to think about paying back." Her soft eyes were smiling to him, a pale shade of blue made vibrant by the high blood which pumped through her beating heart, yet her lips could not do the same as she thought of what was being asked of her. "Of my ten thousand troops I can guarantee production and work from them for you, however, I can't very well sacrifice their free will or loyalty for my own life to be protected behind stone walls. In other words, I will not have them fight for you. These soldiers have killed by my side and I've killed by theres. These men stay by my side and will stay loyal only to me, yet if I were to be allowed to stay then I will surely defend my new home and family to my last breath, as too will the men who have pledged their loyalty to me." What Esther did next may not have been proper princess behavior but her hand reached out to weakly hold onto Dixon's firm manly hands and with a plea in her pooled gaze she asks meekly, "I won't fail my people this time around and I'll defend our home from any danger that might arise, so please, Dixon...I beg you to let me stay her with you.."
As Esther's desperate hand held onto Dixon her illusion slipped as truth slowly slipped out, and droplets of blood began to fall from her wrist into plain sight after having moved out of her illusion's focused areas.
Gone's the wisdom Of a thousand years A world in fire and chains and fear
A permanent alliance between the two houses? A fascinating concept indeed, for such things were usually arranged by marriage contracts. (And let's be honest, neither the Count or the Duke were of such temperament as to be wed to each other.) Nevertheless, there was something interesting, and dare he say, almost exciting about the idea. As things currently stood with their two countries, alliance was very possible. Would that change in the future? Ah... such would depend on the kings that would follow, or perhaps, whatever little creatures with wings would ascend to the throne of Ethe or Phoebos.
It had already been an arrangement between them, as heads of their respective houses, but unveiling this arrangement was an interesting choice. Perhaps it was fair enough to do, as they no longer feared the tyrant's maw. However, merely because the throne changed hands did not guarantee that things could remain that peaceful.
For now, he lifted his glass and nodded. "An agreeable arrangement for my part, Count."
He drew his teacup back, but instead of taking another drink, he needed to refill it. He would do so now, while the refugee princess began to speak to the count. Now, the lord of Phoebos wasn't one with a particularly keen sight, however, he took in details rather well. That said, because he wasn't expecting an illusion, he wasn't looking for one and wouldn't have pierced through it anyway.
So when it began to break and blood became evident.... he could smell it. He lowered his cup to the table again.
This was intriguing.
Leads me to a place so far Deep down it lies my secret vision I better keep it safe
Elentiya nodded her head to Bernard and smiled in thanks as she took a seat without another word, looking over at her host, she was about to say something but she was stopped when she saw her sister. A flash of happiness went though her but she didn't move, she would be happy to speak with her elder sister in privet and she was glad she said nothing now as the words that Count Titanus said shocked her. Shocked her so much that she had to quickly reign in her magic faster then throwing a book into a fire, which in of itself was a horrid thought to this Queen. Traitors. She was at a meeting for traitors. Her eyes darted over to her sister. Maybe it was just a misunderstanding, but the way Count Titanus spoke she doubted it. Elentiya gripped the chair hard, on top of this she could see something wrong was with her sister, but no. no. no. no. no. no. Elentiya swallowed the happiness that she had felt and ignored the pain that sprung just below her ribs.
Elentiya would listen to The Count and then to her sister and a growing surge of fear took roost in her heart. When she was addressed her head jerked slightly, she did not show the fear though as she clutched her hands together before looking over at the white haired man, House Xerseis, she would remember that. She looked back at Count Titanus and kept her face as neutral as possible as a storm raged inside her, for the first time she cursed her husband for having fallen so ill and having left her to deal with this. Why were the gods silent in Zalto? Why were they silent in Lionis? Why was Onera useless? She felt small lines form over the mirror she had created in her mind, nothing major like breaking or shattering occurred just some simple hair line fractures and some chipping around the edge as she swallowed again and touched nothing "Allow me to correct some things that you have been misinformed about, Count Titanus" she whispered softly before looking over at her sister, just like with her husband she felt something knew, Betrayal this time. She had begged her sister to stay out of the war, she knew she was no gentle soul like The Count seemed to have been duped into. Small flakes of ice began to fall around the table despite the warm spring weather.
Yet Elentiya would hold her composure "To Say that Lady Esther Drosselmeyers being stripped of her title and lands is unjust is wrong. To say say such a thing without just cause is slander. Also side that, Count Titanus, it is also wrong to say that my sister having been stripped of her title and lands, is unfair. The Drosselmeyer family has proven the wrongness that has come from their reign many times over since Ethe found it just to take it upon itself to have my eldest sister Assassinated." Elentiya's fingers flicked slightly "Ethe's actions have yet to be accounted for and have left me without a beloved older sister and my nephew, now in my care, without a mother. Lets also not also forget that the Crown Prince was known to be just like his father before being poisoned by Princess Tatiana before she herself was beheaded for this crime and stripped of any right to be laid to rest within the family mausoleum in the Maude" Elentiya made a graceful motion to her sister "Lady Esther being stripped of her nobility is a side effect of war, and NOTHING, Count Titanus, is unjust about it" she finished.
But it seemed that she would not be done as a few more cracks appeared on the mirror inside of her head by the smirk that had appeared on the Count's face, but Elentiya was never one to go on a tangent so instead she kept her smile as the ice that fell around them like snow would slowly stop. Yet it was the mention of Zalto's stagnation in jewelry that made a small chip on the mirror chip off. how dare he act like such a pompous, cocky, hypocrite. Slowly Elentiya sat straight as possible "It seems to are highly misinformed Count Titanus" run. run. run. The voice in her head started to say as darkness oozed from the chip in the mirror. She was talking with a traitor! Yet she would remain her calm "Forgive my bluntness but Zalto's trade and incomes have not in any way began to stagnate. Unlike Ethe Zalto hasn't suffered from any setbacks in the recent years or in generations. To just assume that we are in such dire straights." a stop as she lowered her eyelids "And you forget that Zalto's specialties are the exact same as Ethe. We mine precious metals from the ground, this means gold, silver and bronze among many others along with the jewels we find. We have so much in excess that our capital is literally, not figuratively, covered in it. Which you would know if you had ever visited the city..." she trailed off, that reminded her of something vastly important.
The Ooze coming from the mirror started to boil, what was this anger? She had never felt it in her life! She was enraged! She hated that her father had been the monster that he was, she was horrified that she had to deal with this matter now, she felt betrayed by her sister a woman she had come to see as good as a friend. Yet her face remained ever calm and smiling. No sign of the inner turmoil managed to make it onto her face, not because it was something she could control but because it wasn't a hot rage...it was cold. "Despite your hospitality Count Titanus everything you have said today has been insulting. The Lionis Empire demands your respect because it has never once been a Kingdom, it has always been an Empire and still to this day despite what your Regents wishes it is still part of the Empire and thusly they are still your overlords" she looked at House Xersies "and you, My Lord, should not be agreeing to anything with Ethe. Your overlord weather you agree with or support Lionis as of right now is your King, King Herod, whom is loyal to the Empire. You should be agreeing to nothing."
Lastly she looked back at the Count, Everything she had said would have been said in a soft voice void of any hatred anger and malice, simply facts that she knew to be true. "I do have a question of you now Count of Ethe. Three of them actually, that are now of a great concern to me." now she let a little fraction of the anger hiding inside of her head slip out into her eyes as she looked at the Count "Firstly the Assassination of my dearest sister has yet to be answered for. Why hasn't Ethe bothered to produce the person that has taken my sisters life and left my Nephew an Orphan?" she raised a finger "Secondly, your words reminded me that recently Ethen troops have been seen within Zalto borders. Why?" she held up another finger "Lastly. Why have I been invited here to what now seems to be subjected to your traitorous words?" These were not the words of a strong woman, but they were the words of a woman in charge of a nation, she felt a pang in her stomach but she ignored it.
Gone's the wisdom Of a thousand years A world in fire and chains and fear
Ah... there seemed to be a spot of misunderstanding happening. A breakdown in communication, as it were. The crystal dragon lowered his cup to the table and took the chance to fill a cup for the queen before carefully handing it to her.
"If I may, your highness, I believe our host is offering a trade agreement. Ethe offers to refine the ptecious metals of Zalto, in exchamge for gems. They have a newly prosperous and impressive education system that the Regent Kai has opened to the populus."
The cryatal dragon's gold eyes seemed, for a moment, tired as he smiled politely at her. "May I humbly suggest that her majesty not be so quick to dismiss trade agreements without first discerning whether such an arrangement would be beneficial to her country?"
Besides... why be so angry at their host? Who was giving them food and drink. "Might I have a small glass of wine, good sir?"
Leads me to a place so far Deep down it lies my secret vision I better keep it safe
Posted: Sun Dec 24, 2017 1:25 pm
✺
Forgotten Son
EC: 100
The agreement of the others to his personal proposals--not to mention their not disagreeing with his rhetoric--brought a warm, very nearly victorious smile to his face. The duke, he knew, was in his corner. To have a joint militia with him was an asset beyond his ability to appraise at present.
"Glad to have you with us, good duke." Just as pleasant was the former princess' quasi-disagreement. Her counter-proposal had equalled out to the same effect, if he heard her correctly. Would she lie to him and take his land from underneath him? Just as soon as she would stop being grateful? Only if she was mistreated--all realities which the count would see as impossible but no less accounted for.
"Milady..." said the count softly, somewhat embarrassed by the sudden flatter that came all of it came with. "just so long as we remain friends, I will allow you to stay under these conditions." And so another deal was sealed. Marvelous! Troops and another strong leader to sympathise with him!
"Esther!" Her hand, which held onto his so frailly--not at all like her, but not enough in itself to rouse his suspicion--transferred blood onto his. Two distinct drops counted the moment in which the count was absolutely frozen, not just in concern but also shock that the princess had allowed herself to be injured so. He moved to take her lithe frame into his arm and support her while he called, "Bernard! We need attention!"
To his dismay, the reply: "I am aware, master."
"Then why are you just standing there like some kind of buffoon!" Dixon, showing his protective side, nearly wrung the butler's neck before he had a chance to explain himself.
"My lord... She has demanded not to be helped--we did try, you should know." Eyes were averted; Dixon slowly let the old helper down and patted his collar straight again.
Back at the conversation, the count was again disturbed, but this time for a very different reason. It seemed that not all shared his sentiment, or, despite a certain failed veiling of emotions (evidenced by unconscious use of powers and a subsequent slip of the countenance), hadn't the patience to hear it altogether. The queen even went so far as to lay treason at the man's table!
Needless to say, some of these accusations would rend a lesser man's confidence to shreds. Dixon, however, seemed to hold more steady here than when it was made know that Esther had been harmed. He would not address every point brought by the queen, for to do so would be to insult himself. Instead he would humor her by addressing what he believed to be her root concerns. With hands calmly on the table, the count began with a very sincere mien.
"Be it not that Zalto's queen is inept to hear or comprehend as you have said of me, I would endeavor to clarify my position." His eyes, failing to be amused by what he could hazard was a façade of civility as she condemned him, held her gaze with a certain amount of apology...
"I understand that we were given a choice to leave the empire; I would think it not treason to speak of opinions regarding such a body after having taken that choice." He gave a small shrug. "Regardless, I only mean to criticise the empire, not bring war or aggression to it. The soldiers I raise are to ensure we may repair in peace after the unfortunate termination of our protective wall." To her protests about economy, the count gave a cursory rebuking.
"Perhaps I mean to say that, in the future, we may be very good partners economically." He had been to their capital. He did not need to remind her of this as she was seemingly in no mood to hear them. "I'm afraid we must disagree on many things,, your majesty." Dixon laid this out rather flatly, appearing to be through with those ancillary issues. "May it be a brighter future in which all nations may do so as candidly without the repercussions you have alluded to to-day."
He would, however, address her bulleted questions in full. "As to your three inquiries..." A somber breath became his as he endeavored to quell the woman's temper. "To suggest we have not been doing what we can to find the one who killed your sister is simply not true. When we find the assailant, we will make it right." On to the next one. "The matter of troops in desert Caelum is simple as well. We have been attacked by Guzul tribesmen for the past year before, taking it as quite enough, I decided to take a modest force into the area, which I saw to be only populated by the Guzul. After our attack, I think you will find the scourge much less bold to attack anyone." Why, to counter, had Zalto not done anything to cure this threat so close to their home? Ah, but that was to mince word, a thing the count did not do with those who were not his partners. "Dear queen," offered the count with a sigh in answering her last question, "I have called you all here to voice my concerns, my opinions, but mainly to ask for your partnership in business. Whether or not you share my views, I also wanted to sit with you so that we may come to understand each other as friend despite any disagreements." Something of sadness, of disappointment, came into his eyes.
"I do pray I was not mistaken in that last goal..." Without having to respond to the duke's request, Dixon's men had brought wine for him. Dark, with blueberry notes, for his weary mind. Dixon let his attention wander to Esther again, hoping that she wasn't too banged up.
A snap of his fingers and a fresh pitcher was brought out. He meant to have water with his toast, after all. Soon the lunch would actually begin. Dixon's staff had cooked for all of them a two course meal that would hopefully please any palette. First was the wild salad, dressed with a zesty sauce and slices of cured pork. To follow was a dish with steamed rice and fresh-caught fish from the river.
All the water had been boiled thoroughly before being brought to the table. What the count might not have known was that the water had been laced with a healing salve by Bernard. A glass would do wonders for Esther's condition, to say nothing of a hot meal for her tired body. With fruit and rice beside him, the count began munching and bade them to do the same.
Dixon found it much better to spend the afternoon dining in good company than to be accused of treason--and who wouldn't? He found it easy to forget these troubles, if only for a moment, as he was served and hoped they all found their dishes to their liking. Were it not for the Esther's condition and Elentiya's controlled condemnation, he fancied this a nigh perfect day, why not? An aura of peace began to exude itself from the count, now quick to smile and offer his humorous anecdotes where they found themselves in conversation.
Location:: Gardens Company:: Dixon, Baby Sister! (And some other guy) Clothing:: princess outfit Feeling:: Happy and tired Condition:: Damaged and Fatigue Currency:: $0 EC Items:: Her Arcana cards and Twin Hidden Daggers Active Cards::
(For more info click her photo) 0 The Fool:✔✔✔ I The Magician:✔✔✔ II The High Priestess:✔✔✔ III The Empress:✔✔✔ IV The Emperor:✔✔✔ V The Hierophant:✔✔✔ VI The Lovers:✔✔✔ VII The Chariot:✔✔✔ VIII Justice:✔✔✔ IX The Hermit:✔✔✔ X Wheel of Fortune:✔✔✔ XI Strength:✔✔✔ XII The Hanged Man:✔✔✔ XIII Death:✔✔✔ XIV Temperance:✔✔✔ XV The Devil:✔✔✔ XVI The Tower:✔✔✔ XVII The Star:✔✔✔ XVIII The Moon:✔✔✔ XIX The Sun:✔✔✔ XX Judgement:✔✔✔ XXI The World:✔✔✔
OOC::
Princess Esther Drosselmyer of Lionis
Her baby sister Elentiya, with hair as fine as pure gold, always had a keen sense on people and it showed through her young age. Hell, even when being forced into a marriage by command of their father Elentiya had the feeling that maybe something good could come from the man who was to be her husband. It turned out Elentiya was right about Aldon of Zalto, and even popped out a baby from the love in their home. Yet, here and now as Elentiya questions Dixon about his actions Esther could feel a conflicting storm brewing inside of her. Esther trust her baby sister's judgment on people but could Esther bring herself to be suspicious of the man who is taking her in? Could she really bring herself to not trust the one who made her feel safe and sheltered her heart from the world's storm within his strong arms?
"I am forever in your debt Count Dixon." And there her finely noble lips spoke her bond to her protector and she smiles gratefully to the man who made her eyes spark with a new hint of hope. What Dixon did next however made Esther watch with a sort of wonderment as the count snapped at his butler. Many did say Dixon was the rabid wolf of Ethe but that only made him more beautiful in her eyes. Others might think he was intimidating when he barked his commands as he did so now but to Esther nothing was more attractive than such a beast doing so much for someone they cared about. It made her heart skip a beat, and she felt secure having such a forceful man be by her side. This side of Dixon was something she hadn't seen before. He slightly reminded her of her father and how his voice could also move mountains, and he's one of the only men she's felt had a power to rival her father's own strength; A strength of physicality and mental fortitude she always looked up to.
"Bernard, I'm sorry my actions caused you trouble." The high born princess looks to the seasoned butler as she watches him tend to her wounds; Damage slowly being shown as the perfect illusion falls from her and her slashed up dress is shown along with the blood the had seeped from the cuts suffered. "I was slightly scared when I fled here but then to hear Dixon wanted to see me after arriving was too much for me to ignore. I had to see him before anything else happened. I was sure it had something to do about my cousin and the recent end results of the war...so that's why I had to see Dixon above all things and then tend to myself after." She said things loud enough for Dixon to hear, though surly the other heard too, and as she sat in her provided seat she took the moment to wonder about the other guest in her mind. Her sister Elentiya was obviously asked here because of her power in Zalto and, Esther thought, Elentiya's influence in the church of Onra but the silver haired one Esther hasn't had the pleasure of properly meeting. House Xerseis was what Dixon mentioned and with that alone Esther now knew who her friend was also dealing with; Her knowledge of her once bond Imperial supporters not failing her.
"No, stop." Esther covered the slash on the top of her breast, her clothing luckily only slashed a slight horizontal slash, and another hand bashfully covered the other cuts at her thighs as she asked Bernard to cease the aid. The ones one her forarm and face were okay, not much to clean up, she just didn't feel comfortable with a stranger touching her so much. She hardly allowed Bernard the peace to preform his duties, and if it wasn't for her fatigued state she wouldn't have needed him at all. The blessings of her mother's magic, like her twin brother Gareth, were strong with her; Her body still of flesh, however, and thusly it gets to tired for its own use. Thoughts of her uncomfortability brought up an odd remembrance of her nightgown image feeling very comfortable with a certain count and soon her eyes coyly gaze at his own dark chocolate stare; The princess asking something with quite eyes and even quieter clues.
Esther's eyes conveyed many things though. Silent disapproval and anxious heart. Agitated pride and protective nature. Like a carnivorous feline he stare was fixed upon the faces at the luncheon; in particularly her sister and her dear friend. There were things that her sister said which slightly irked Esther to hear, in particular that her losses were just a side affect of war, but there was an aura around her guardian she wasn't fully convinced of either. She could see when his riled up emotions were real, his anger and concern having shown true, but something about how he was talking reminded her of the many nobles who had plotted along with her father when they ran the world from the throne room. Something about this was exactly right but maybe that's why I felt perfectly wrong.
Either way...what was a girl to do when she had no home to call her own.
"Elentiya." Esther kindly called her sister's name as she kept her seriousness tuned in to her. "You might be a queen but you've still got a lot to learn about politics, my sister." Her chosen dish, the heated pulled pork, held its perfectly uneaten steam as Esther tried to calm her sister. "The death of our sister was to be expected. It's like you said about my titles and lands, it was just a symptom of war and by the eyes of the majority their assassination was just." Water now poured and a quick yet polite thanks was given to Bernard; And a surprisingly refreshing taste of water slip past her lips. "Further more, why aren't you taking care of the scum in your land when its problem is pooling over to other kingdoms? Shouldn't your husband or any of his family have delt with this issue already? It's not like the issue of barbarian raids on caravans of something new for Zalto." And then with a single bite in to meet Esther would follow up and give one last piece of advice to baby sister; Who wasn't to good at keeping carful, it would appear. "And lastly, if you're going to call treason you'd better have a good reason as to why and even better evidence to back it up. Otherwise you're just being rude, and with your husband's health as it is it wouldn't be very wise to go making enemies now would it."
To that end, with no more words to say, Esther took to the vegetables with a delighted smile and a happy hum as she chewed. "My gods, this is so good Dixon! What do you think of the meal, Lord Xerseis? Dose it par up to Phobosian dishes?"
Elentiya would listen to Count Dixon for a moment and then to her sister and she would find herself looking at the table for a minute with her lips pressed firmly together. She would then look up with a smile on her face "I see, if thats how it is" she started out "Forgive my harsh words Dixon but how you phrased things I hope you can understand how Zalto would see it as traitorous. We have always supported the Empire and calling them a so called irrelevant thing of the past is not just insulting to them but to us" She would push herself up slowly and ignored the dizziness that began to spill into her mind "Further more the Barbarians were never our problem Esther until they were chased into Zalto and became our problem." she kept her eyes on Dixon now "But it is just so now, Zalto's problem. Weather or not they caused Ethe many hardship you should have sent word that you were sending an army of any size into Zalton territory. I will firmly request that you never do this again Count Dixon, unless you are given the proper permissions"
Elentiya seemed to be of sounder mind now, but now it also seemed that she was starting to get a bit depressed "Zalto will not agree to any trade agreements until we talk it over with our allies" finally she looked over at her sister, hurt in her eyes "As well, I thought I would inform you that a letter came for you from the Empress before I left. If I had known you were here I would have brought it. She would like to speak with you, It did not say about what but I can only assume since she gave our brother the lands and titles of a vicount for returning to the crown to the Lionis branch that you will likely be awarded in some way for staying out of the war" she clasped her hands together "Other then that it seems I am the odd one out here. If you have anything you wish to speak of I will be remaining in Zalto and I will take my leave now." she nodded her head to Count Dixon before looking over at Esther "If you ever want to visit or see your niece and nephew do give advanced notice Miss Drosselmeyer" she then turned and walked out of the garden just as tears started rolling down her cheeks and turning to ice.
Elentiya would make it out to the front of the estate were the physician she came with was waiting "How was the meeting?" the short woman asked and Elentiya shook her head "Not worth mentioning" she said as she quickly transformed into her feather winged dragon form and took off. Or at least she tried to. She managed to start flying, getting about fifty feet into the air as she flied over the river which she would use as a defacto road to make it back to Zalto, but she should have told her physician about the dizziness that she had began to feel back in the garden because it didnt take long until the large iridescent, feather winged dragon would go careening sideways and crash into the small amount of typhoid flavored river that ran though Titania.
[I'd say exit but theirs no river thread to exit to]
To hear that Esther was agreeing with him enough to correct her own sister (though, to be fair, it was easy to see that there was something of a schism between members of the Drosselmyer tree... Why it was that Elentiya took the side of Ursula over Esther seemed to only be answered by Ethe's apparent dissent and the disgust it brought from the new queen, though it seemed to be a problem that warranted more than one answer) brought the count much joy. Yes, despite these things, which the count would no doubt address with his advisors later, he brightened considerably for most of the lunch portion of their little date. He seemed perfectly content to play the good host, checking on the condition of the former princess and seeing to it that everyone had the drink and dish of their choice so long as it was within his power.
... But then...
The Queen Llewelyn had decided to voice her opinions/disapproval yet again, finding fault in the logical objections there raised by her big sister. He had no more words other than those that were obliged for the new queen. She was not willing or perhaps unable to hear or disagree civically; Dixon made it known how much this affected him by allowing her to leave. She was shown out kindly by the staff.
"... Well then. That was pleasant," said the count dryly, almost wearily, with a sigh as he melted back into his chair just a bit. Wouldn't do to show any strain in front of the company, would it? Dixon made it a point to separate himself from those who did not share his views simply because he felt it a waste of time to chase their approval. After all, it had taken so long to earn the trust of the peerage of his own country; how long would it take to turn the mind of the queen! Such anger in her words...
"I do hope that wasn't a bother for you," said the count with concern directed at Esther. So fair she had been to him. Indeed, it was the restraint she showed--he was no fool; he knew just how brutal she could be--that always placed her as noble in character in his eyes. He gestured between his remaining guests: "Abava Ali, duke of Phobos; Princess Esther Drosselmyer, of Lionis."
A quite moment was able to pass. Esther's wounds would continue to heal so long as she rested and drank the salvific water from the pitcher. All seemed well and good again, and the count was quite ready to get on with the talk of the future again. At least, that was, until a whisper in the ear alerted him to the sound of a distant fall.
"Shall I go investigate, master?" Dixon, dropping his fork and bracing his weary temple with a frustrated fist, for the first time today was overcome by his emotions to the point of releasing heat around them. A soft shimmer rolled over him as he stared ahead, almost catatonic in frustrated disbelief, until...
"--That won't be necessary." He rose, steadying his hand as his gaze was set on the horizon. Bernard moved out of the way in anticipation. "Tend to my guests. Their enjoyment and fellowship are the priorities of the state."
"Sir..." A reverent bow as the count paced over to a clear patch in the garden marked with grey stones, seeming to be a place to rest.
"... Everything else is a distraction that must be seen to and plucked immediately." Without another word or glance to the gathering their the count was airborne in a fiery crescent that grew features consistent with the phoenix shape as it shot toward the horizon. Within the minute, it was a pale blue dot in the patchwork sky over Titania.
Above all that was his, the count could see from border to border, flapping with backward circles to keep himself still in the air so as to look around. When this did not suit his needs, a cyclical soring was employed to get a clean look at every direction. Eventually, the count was able to spy figures near the river that was being blocked by the militia at the border. Within another moment, he was touching down before them.
"Are you alright?" called the count from a dozen or so yards away. "The river isn't safe. Let me help you."
(I realise you're trying to leave but... Plot.) ════════════════════════════════════════════════════════
Quotes
Demon Countess
Rihenian
Lord Hedo
Quote:
Posted: Thu Dec 28, 2017 7:44 am
demon countess
Cotton Shorts Kid
Rihenian
Location:: Gardens Company:: Lord Xerseis and Bernard Clothing:: princess outfit (torn up) Feeling:: Condition:: Healing Currency:: $0 EC Items:: Her Arcana cards and Twin Hidden Daggers Active Cards::
(For more info click her photo) 0 The Fool:✔✔✔ I The Magician:✔✔✔ II The High Priestess:✔✔✔ III The Empress:✔✔✔ IV The Emperor:✔✔✔ V The Hierophant:✔✔✔ VI The Lovers:✔✔✔ VII The Chariot:✔✔✔ VIII Justice:✔✔✔ IX The Hermit:✔✔✔ X Wheel of Fortune:✔✔✔ XI Strength:✔✔✔ XII The Hanged Man:✔✔✔ XIII Death:✔✔✔ XIV Temperance:✔✔✔ XV The Devil:✔✔✔ XVI The Tower:✔✔✔ XVII The Star:✔✔✔ XVIII The Moon:✔✔✔ XIX The Sun:✔✔✔ XX Judgement:✔✔✔ XXI The World:✔✔✔
OOC::
Princess Esther Drosselmyer of Lionis
Perhaps she was too sharp with her sister. Perhaps their father's way of teaching with tough love has stuck with Esther too well, and she couldn't see how her words held power to them. Esther waited a while to come to terms with her sister's saddened aura which was easily read by the sibling. Since youth, Esther had looked after Elentiya like a mother hen. Knowing she hurt Elentiya's feelings was a guilt the elder sibling could not shoulder but would have to in the meantime. There was obviously things that were needed to be said since the passing of their father and their family's fall from grace but none of that could be said while others were around. This was a family issue and Esther intended to keep it that way.
"Not a bother, Dixon. Just a little unpleasant." Esther wanted to go after her sister, to tell her she didn't mean to come across as such a b***h, but she wasn't so use to showing affection anymore. When they were little girls it was easy, but wanting to be taken seriously Esther asked her father to be tough on her like her brothers and soon became excellent at suppressing emotions for the aim of achieving a goal. Emotions can lead to weakness and this was why they were frowned upon in front of her father. But her father wasn't here anymore so why was it difficult to run after Elentiya.
Swiftly after words reached the count's ears a little mention of the situation was told already; Dixon looked bent out of shape and Esther could only imagine why, shortly after her sister leaving no less. A radiant heat reached out from their gracious host making Esther uncomfortable enough to scoot her seat away, calmly and discreetly, but also nervousness about him going off suddenly to deal with some issue alone. In fairness Esther should believe that Dixon had the skill to handle whatever it is that's be brought to his attention it was just the sitting around and not being able to aid was what bother the lady the most.
"Bernard, could you please give me and Lord Xerseis a little space for now?" Esther turns to the master butler, her eyes in a calm glare, and with a sinisterly kind smile she waits for his compliance. Though, she was also expecting him to try and deny her which was a challenge she gladly awaiting to accept. "After all, isn't our fellowship priorities of the state?" And with Dixon gone wouldn't Bernard be expected to keep a smile one the guests face?
Gone's the wisdom Of a thousand years A world in fire and chains and fear
This wasn't the direction he was expecting, he would admit. He lifted his drink to his face, quite very grateful to have anything to take the edge off of the tone that was in the room. The queen, as it happened, excused herself from their company, yet strangely did not leave accompanied by escort. Count Titus was not uncouth enough as to force the lady to go alone.
However, what Xerseis was not expecting was the princess asking to have space and time to speak with him. The crystalline dragon found himself quite puzzled by this development. It was true, they hadn't quite made each other's acquaintance yet. He would have to follow her lead concerning what topics they would speak on.
"At your leisure, my lady." He moved his hand to the alcoholic drink that had been brought by a servant and he poured a glass for the lady. Just in case she didn't want tea, of course. He was sure their host woul be back soon. "If it soothes your nerves, Bernard, I will look after her and call for you if she takes a turn for the worse."
Leads me to a place so far Deep down it lies my secret vision I better keep it safe
The physician would shove at the larger draconian body as she managed to lift the heavy wings just enough to get her smaller form out from underneath before changing back "My Lady!" the physician hobbled over to the Queens head and lifted up the scaled face as best she could, managing to lift Elentiya's head out of the water. The Physician looked up at the sound of a male voice and jerked her head up in order to see the count but was uncertain about what to do, legally speaking she was not aloud to speak about the Queens condition outside of the immediate royal family but her Queen was ill.
She would look down at the scaled face of the feathered dragon and whisper "my lady you need to change back now" the large dragon, fifty feet in length, was stopping the river from flowing correctly and was flooding the land around it just enough to turn it into a temporary marsh as the water tried to find a way to continue flowing in the optimal direction. Elenitiya however was seeming to have none of it as she let out a low growl, flashing at least a hundred needle like teeth that looked more like they were for shredding up opponents then tearing or biting. They young Queen none the less begrudgingly listened and one of her wings lifted out of the water, creating a temporary waterfall. Her dragon form was much more akin to that of wyverns the way her talons were on the ends of her wings instead of having separte limbs. Those talons would change back into fingers and the wings thinned into arms, her body shrinking until she was the frail and small queen that she personified.
The river would start to flow back the way it was supposed to and it would have dragged the semiconscious queen with it if the Physician didnt drag her onto the sopping grass and start to rummage though a small pouch and started to nitpickingly grab some herbs, she would open Elentiya's mouth and put what looked like a large slice of ginger covered in a red spice under her tongue before taking off a large cloak and covering the Queens body from sight due to the river soaking her clothing though. Lastly the Physician would put a hand on the back of her neck and between her shoulder blades in order to guide her into a sitting position "My Ladies health is in a precarious state. It is against the law to speak of it outside the castle." she said simply but in a rather clipped manner "If you would like to help do you think you can lift her up. She needs bedrest" the Physician left out the part where the Queen wasn't supposed to have been out of the castle in the first place.
Bernard did not get to his current station (--and it should be remembered that he put aside his frustration with being separated from the royal palace by the new count's uprising) by being an obstinate, hard man. The wisdom of the old butler was such as to see past such trivial traits to the root of problems, to the futility of struggling against certain personalities.
This was how it was when he was first moved into the Titanic estate (little more than a circle of stumps at the time). Bernard remembered being tested on that patience as the count was quite rough and seemed to be incapable of transitioning from urban life to that of a nobleman. Those nights were often filled with candle light and simmering whispers, enough to have the maids dreaming of replacing all the porcelain in the house.
A dull smile, shown only in the manservant's eye, came to answer the bargaining of the two highborn dragons left on his estate. "As you wish." Into the sepia recesses of the house went the butler, taking with him a hidden assurance that Dixon had indeed surrounded himself with those of a similar disposition if not philosophy at large; the staff was immediately whipped into double-time as that oak door shut behind him.
So too had Bernard's even-keeled, proper manner began to show in Dixon's decision-making. Forgoing the initial start of seeing the stark contrast between the queen's dragon and human forms, the count was set to help the young woman out of the mucky river if only to show how ridiculous she was being. A nurturing aura became him as he reached for the queen, who he was sure would need attention at the estate. Anything to get her to be calm and cooperative. He whispered something--perhaps inconsequential, but no less maximised by its apparent hiddenness--as his arms worked to secure her slight form on his back.
The aim was to make it to the estate quickly, so if the queen did agree to be taken, she would have to ride on the count's back as he flew somewhat swiftly back toward the house.
"Let us treat you for the night... please," the count would say, still in human form, with Elentiya on his back.
Location:: Gardens Company:: Lord Xerseis Clothing:: princess outfit (torn up) Feeling:: Condition:: Healing Currency:: $0 EC Items:: Her Arcana cards and Twin Hidden Daggers Active Cards::
(For more info click her photo) 0 The Fool:✔✔✔ I The Magician:✔✔✔ II The High Priestess:✔✔✔ III The Empress:✔✔✔ IV The Emperor:✔✔✔ V The Hierophant:✔✔✔ VI The Lovers:✔✔✔ VII The Chariot:✔✔✔ VIII Justice:✔✔✔ IX The Hermit:✔✔✔ X Wheel of Fortune:✔✔✔ XI Strength:✔✔✔ XII The Hanged Man:✔✔✔ XIII Death:✔✔✔ XIV Temperance:✔✔✔ XV The Devil:✔✔✔ XVI The Tower:✔✔✔ XVII The Star:✔✔✔ XVIII The Moon:✔✔✔ XIX The Sun:✔✔✔ XX Judgement:✔✔✔ XXI The World:✔✔✔
OOC::
Princess Esther Drosselmyer of Lionis
That ever so kind smile didn't leave at all as Esther watched Bernard walk away, but the moment he was out of sight and she left to freely speak with Dixon's ally she let out a stressed sigh to drink in a relaxing glass of wine; Courtesy of the kind nobleman handing her said glass. "I don't know why but I felt a little tense with him looming over the table." Not even when she lived in the capital did she have many servants around her. More of a solitary animal, Esther never was too keen on people standing around doing nothing productive; Though a single maid was always fine.
"I've never had the pleasure of meeting you while my father was in power." And since she was no longer a true princess she would have to mind her manners while also not holding back and looking fragile. She may have looked beaten up already but she wasn't down nor out. With a dainty hand extend she would introduce herself with that famous regal smile and this time some true sincerity to her new and soon to be friend. "I am Esther Drosselmyer, third daughter of the late emperor Azazel Leon Drosselmeyer and displaced princess from Lionis." Titles that use to roll off her tongue so easily no longer belonged to her and the lack of such made her feel a little bare. Oh, how the gods were so cruel! "How shall I address you, my silver haired friend?"
Gone's the wisdom Of a thousand years A world in fire and chains and fear
They did not have the pleasure of meeting before, this was true, but even in the few moments of having the lady in the room, there was much that she was telling him about who she was. She affirmed herself and her lineage, suggesting that she was already sure of who she was and what that meant for her, and likely also what that meant in the eyes of everyone else. She also spoke her title, but not in her introduction, and instead placing it at the back of her words. It was interesting that she seemed to be more comfortable around him, a stranger, than the one she knew and identified. Not many people knew the name of Dixon's head of the household staff.
The crystalline dragon understood the concern of Bernard, also. Were it on his wishes, he would have kept the butler around, but he had already received quite the public beratement once it was discovered that the Lady Drosselmeyer was wounded. Yes.... that said something in and of itself, didn't it? What kind of noblewoman was accustomed to damage, and insisted on pushing through, despite bleeding?
He knew the scent well. But, why worry the lady with these observations?
The dragon inclined his head. "If it please you, I am known by the name Ali Ababva, Lord Xerseis of Phoebos. Most tend to call me Xerseis. The brave or particular friends of mine are free to call me Max, or Ali."
He lifted his glass and turned his golden eyes to her with a calm smile. "Pleasure to make the acquaintance of the dark-winged child of our late emperor. The stories of your beauty and skills of observation do not do you justice."
Leads me to a place so far Deep down it lies my secret vision I better keep it safe
