Queen of Thorns

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

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The back story behind Toris parents Vanessa and Elin, and how together they changed the face of the Fae court. Also included is the courting, marriage and life of King Oberon and Queen Titania, and the forbidden love between Agu the pet and Selena the fae palace servant.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

Lowering her book she began speaking,Oberon paid close attention to her features in an attempt to understand them, feeling relieved when they became a bit more animated in response to what she was talking about the faerie took a moment to decide what to say next. "you like the beach then? There are quite a few tomes in the library on the beach to do with the study of the beach to stories about the beach. You're more than welcome to continue the borrowing of that book, is there a particular thing you enjoy about the sea? or beach rather" it seemed that his decision when it came to where they'd hide from court for about a month had been a good one. Naturally he wouldn't tell her, it'd be better to be a surprise he'd decided, itching his head absently for a few seconds he returned his attention to her wondering if she'd become more animated while he talked to her about the sea or beach he wasn't sure what one was preferred yet. Quite comfortable on the seat in the warmth of the sun and the fresh air of the garden, the garden was one of his favourite places on the palace grounds, they were away from the majority of court and were nearly always quite pleasant.

Looking up at the noise he stiffened slightly until he recognized whom it was, relaxing he greeted her politely "Evenin' Mam" with the ball that'd happened the man had had to do extra work in the gardens. There were hedges that needed trimming, paths raking and a multitude of other bits and pieces. "Better" he didn't bother bringing up the new lashes, they didnt' really mean much to him and she'd see them when she tended to his back. Naturally it seemed he'd have to find something else to give to her to pay back the debt for this time, he hadn't had time or the energy to carve anything new, it seemed he'd have to just let her have the favour and pay her back when he could. He spun around so she could get to his back, not daring to stand as he was very aware that pale face women seemed to be threatened by him when he stood. Resuming brushing his fingers over the bark mapping out how it felt in his mind, the slave remained relaxed keeping his body posture unthreatening.

Posts : 4737 Join date : 2013-09-09 Age : 27

She was still unsure about whether she could refer to him by his first name, but he had said he didn’t want to be called his highness. Torn between her training to always use correct titles, and the other part of her training to always obey her husband, she wasn’t quite sure of the correct path to take, so for the moment she was just avoiding calling him anything. Flicking another careful look at him as he spoke, she began to relax a little more as she discovered she wasn’t in trouble for giving her opinion, and that he didn’t mind her continuing to borrow the book. “Yes,” she murmured in response to his first question, hoping that the answer wouldn’t mean he’d prevent her from going to the beach at some point. Hesitating at the next couple of questions, she wasn’t brave enough to give the true response, instead falling back onto the response that she’d been taught and knew wouldn’t get her in trouble. “It’s a lovely outlook to watch.” She wasn’t quite brave enough to tell him yet that the beach and the sea looked so free, so much freer than what she would ever be.

Nodding at his response, she settled to kneel behind him, noticing the new wounds but not mentioning them. What was the point of doing that, he knew they were there. Instead, she merely repeated what she’d done the last time, cleaning the raw welts and cuts as gently as she could, hoping that it would help them heal a bit faster and nicer. She was slowly relaxing around him, since he didn’t seem to be threatening, or wanting to threaten her. She was just unsure how much she wanted to get involved with him, unsure where she wanted their acquaintanceship to go from here. Staying quiet, the thought that she was continually getting him in debt to her had never even crossed her mind. She simply wanted to help him, she didn’t see why he wouldn’t be entitled to some sort of kindness in his life. Soon finishing, she gave a quiet sigh, letting the rag drop back into the bowl. “Done,” she murmured.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

Nodding at her first answer, her second was rather disappointing, giving another nod he murmured "Well I'll let you get back to your book, My Lady" opening his book and leaning back into the seat he was soon lost in another world where thankfully things made so much more sense. Lost in the book it was the feeling of growing cold that drew him out of his book "Oh im sorry my lady i lost myself in the book again. Come we should return to your father lest he think i've taken off with you" tucking the book under one arm he walked over and offered her a hand up. Escorting her back to her father he commented "The next time we meet I expect will be on our wedding day my lady" his tone was rather mild when he brought up the wedding, the only thing he was really looking forward to towards it was heading out to the sea-side palace.

The faint tenseness that was the result of the pain he was in relaxed as the cloth wiped over the aching wounds on his back. Closing his eyes he stayed still until a soft murmur told him that she was done, looking over his shoulder at her, brown eyes studied her attempting to at least half way understand this faerie. Slowly turning around to face her he offered a very brief slight smile, he didn't know what to do, how to deal with kindness what was this, what was the ulterior motive? Despite his efforts the confusion showed on his features, he just wanted to understand, pale faces didn't help him, he was their whipping boy, their slave. To be blamed and punished for everything, still sitting this close one could see the tiredness in hsi gaze as well as the wariness, was this a trick? "What do you want from me? I dont have anything to pay the debt back, and my master will be furious if i owe another faerie a favour" his tone was quiet and almost desperate, not moving to get up he waited, the idea of presenting himself as the simpleton the rest knew him as still hadn't occurred to him so surprised and confused he was by all of this.

Posts : 4737 Join date : 2013-09-09 Age : 27

His answer made it seem like she’d disappointed him, and she warily looked at him as he got back to his book, unsure if he was angry, or if she’d responded with the correct response. He was giving her somewhat confusing cues, and she as unsure of herself. Even though her father was heavy handed, at least she knew what responses were expected of her, and so she could please him with what she said. Mulling over her dilemma, she got back to her book, quite happy to read it until the crown prince spoke again. The book was closed softly and she took his hand with a soft smile. “Thank you for the enjoyable afternoon,” she said quietly, sincereness in her voice for the first time since they’d met. Walking with him, she gave the required curtsy when they got back to her father, reciting the words she’d been taught to say. “I appreciate the time you took out of your day to spend with my, your highness.” She could feel her father’s approval, though she went a little pale at the mention of the wedding. She was so scared about that, but she couldn’t show it.

Lena tilted her head a little at the confusion on his face, unsure why it was there. His words soon gave her the answer, and a slight smile crossed her face. “I want nothing,” she said simply. “I’m not trying to trick you into owing me anything.” The explanation was gentle, she could see how tired he looked, and so she sat hugging her knees to her chest, watching him quietly. “There is no debt. I just want to help you a little.” Still a little undecided whether she should give him her name, she kept silent about that for now, not entirely sure what her overall goal was with this relationship.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

Hearing the sincerity a genuinely warm smile spread over his features and was directed at her for a few sunny moments. Cold and professional once they were beside her father he took her hand and lifted it to press a polite kiss to the back of it. "You're most welcome my lady, it was enjoyable" flicking a look at the girls father he inclined his head politely before excusing himself and leaving. The next couple of weeks went surprisingly fast, his father insisted that he had a new set of clothes for the wedding which was admittedly tedious, in the early hours of the wedding morning he snuck out to the carriage and hid a couple of his favourite books in there. The wedding honestly he didn't remember much of apart from the look of terror hidden in his brides eyes, keeping professional throughout the ceremony they ended up on a pair of thrones at the reception. Paying zero attention to any of the speeches, soon enough it was up to the part of the day he'd not been looking forward to the only part where he had to say or do something more than a quick kiss and an 'i do'. Standing and taking her hand he walked towards where they had to dance and murmured into her ear "it'll be alright my lady" when she was ready he began picking one of the more simpler easier to remember dances mainly because he hated dancing in public and felt nervous.

More confusion clouded his features, she didn't want anything? She wasn't trying to trick him, as much as he didn't understand why he was inclined to believe her. Faeries usually owned up to tricks when he was blunt he'd found, why would she want to help him? "Why would you want to help me, Mam?" the gentleness in her voice was alien to the male, watching as she sat he didn't make a move. For such a big burly creature he had a low incentive to hurt others, the fight, the warrior had long been squashed out by centuries of slavery leaving behind someone surprisingly gentle.

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The weeks before the wedding flew by, with her wedding dress being made and fitted, but somehow the day before the wedding Tilly managed to anger her father enough to warrant her first big beating since securing her marriage to the prince. Barely able to sit down from the pain, she wasn’t entirely sure how she got through the wedding, even the vows and the kiss went by in a blur. Jerked out of her slight trance when her hand was taken, she followed the prince mutely, her pain and fear hidden behind her perfect mask it always was. At least her best friend had been invited, and she was planning to go and find Nessa in order to speak with her again before she moved into the palace. Flicking a look up at the taller faerie as he whispered in her ear, she controlled her trembling and took his hand and arm, her feet thankfully moving automatically to the music. When the dance was over, she offered him a slight curtsey before speaking quietly. “May I speak with some guests, your highness?” Careful to keep her voice quiet so that only he could hear her, she waited almost anxiously for the answer, a relieved look flickering into her eyes when he approved. Moving away, she found her best friend and took her hand tightly, watching the rest of the faeries mingling and dancing. “Nessa, I’m so glad you’re here.”

A slight smile graced her face as more confusion crossed his features, and she rested her chin on her knees, watching him. She had a few precious moments more before she had to go inside, and it seemed that the pet in front of her might need those extra few minutes. “Because you looked to be in pain,” she answered simply. She wasn’t going to reveal what she knew of the prince, in her opinion that information wasn’t any of anyone else’s business. Somehow she’d survived his brutal ownership and come out the other side still alive and whole, but this pet looked like he was close to not making that.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

They'd been invited and thankfully she'd been allowed to go, her father had been very pleased that his youngest daughter was the new princess's best friend. Wearing her best dress she'd stayed close to her eldest sister, not really paying attention to the fact that she was talking to her betrothed. Vanessa brightened up when she spotted her friend coming over to her, squeezing her hand comforting she smiled slightly "So am I" for her friends sake anyway. Watching the prince as he walked over to where his father was along with some other nobles, nessa silently threatened the icy man with violence if he dared to hurt her friend. Looking her friend over and picking up on the subtle hints, the girl squeezed the blondes hand again "you're sore" murmuring the comment into her friends ear she couldn't help but wonder what on earth had offended Titanias father enough to hurt her like that again. Surely that wasn't very intelligent, giving a girl about to be married to a prince a thorough beating, a spiteful look was flicked towards her friends father, having always hated him and his heavy handed ways that had seemed to get worse after her mother had died. Remembering something she'd wanted to ask, Vanessa added "Whats the prince like in private?" was he as cold and distant as he was whenever he attended court? She hadn't envied Titania, privately pleased that as the youngest surely her father wouldn't care if she loved a pet.

Watching her silently as she explained that she'd helped him because he looked like he'd been in pain a whirlwind of complex emotions and feelings that flicked over his features so quickly he was lost in them for a few precious seconds. "Its been well over four thousand years since someone has been kind to me" he finally said "Much less a silk-wing" deciding to keep the word pale face to himself since she had helped him. "Thank you" his voice smoothed out becoming almost warm and gentle, meanwhile his features and gaze did the same briefly, no one had been genuinely kind for the sake of it in so long, the fact that someone was blew his mind a little.

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Keeping hold of Nessa’s hand, Tilly closed her eyes for a moment, pushing back the pain. She was so grateful Nessa had been invited and able to come, and she tightened her hold slightly. “He was furious,” she murmured, shifting on her feet a little to try and stop her dress rubbing on the painful welts. It had been a long time since she’d angered her father enough for him to use more than his fists on her, and so she was unused to being in this much pain again. “Shoulder blades to knees.” Swallowing, she shook her head a little. “He seems okay so far, almost shy.” Maybe things would turn out alright. “He likes to read, he’s allowed me to roam the library. He doesn’t seem like he’ll beat me.” She was so thankful about that, all she wanted was to get away from her father so that he couldn’t control her any longer, though she did know the risks of it, she could get stuck with a worse husband, but in her opinion it was worth the risk.

Lena smiled slightly, glad that he was slightly relaxing with her around. “I’m Lena,” she told him, not expecting him to give his name in response. He’d know the dangers of that, and since he belonged to the prince, he’d likely been told to not give his name out. “You’re welcome, but I didn’t do anything you need to thank me for.” Hearing a commotion at the servants door, she looked up and in that direction before getting to her feet with a sigh. “I have to get going or I’ll get yelled at. Be careful with the prince.” The warning was soft, since she was very aware he’d know all about the prince’s temper, but she couldn’t help saying it.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

Sympathy for the pain her friend must be in softened her gaze, kissing Titanias cheek gently, Vanessa listened as it was explained to her that the crown prince seemed okay so far and seemed almost shy. Some of her fears were soothed when it was added that he liked to read and had allowed her bestie to roam the library, trusting the newly crowned princess when she commented that he didn't seem like the beating sort. Not saying anything about her sisters betrothal, Vanessa was more concerned with her friend, stiffening however when she spotted the younger prince Jacob making his way over, the females blue eyes hardened before quickly schooling her face into the mask all noblewomen were expected to show. Demure, humble, polite and above all obedient, the prince had Oberons dark hair but his fathers hard hazel eyes, whereas Oberon took more after their mother. Taking Titanias hand he didn't even give Vanessa a single look far too intent on enjoying the piece of meat that had been stolen from him, still angry with his father for giving the girl to his older brother, Jacob harshly held the blonde girl close to him more than what was considered polite.

Quietly he nodded when he was given a name, he didn't give his own, as far as he remembered his name was Slave and he hated it. The woman who called herself Lena explained that he was welcome but that she hadn't done anything for him to thank her for. Noise sounded that had him rising quite swiftly wariness returning to his large form, however he didn't move to do anything else, instead he just nodded once more when she explained that she had to go or risk getting yelled at. Surprised when she mentioned the prince, the slave stared after her before collecting his lighter and heading out a few minutes after her making sure nobody saw him. Out at work again early the next morning the hot summer day had him already ditch the simple shirt he hung it over a tree branch while working on adding more gravel to the paths.

Posts : 4737 Join date : 2013-09-09 Age : 27

She was able to relax a little with her friend, taking a few precious moments to forget her training and let go of her fear. Tilly was so scared about what was going to happen that night, but she had to bury that. She had no choice in what happened to her, so she was just going to have to deal with it however it came. Spotting the younger prince coming towards her, she dropped the correct curtsy to him, letting go of Vanessa’s hand as he pulled her away to dance. His hand rested firmly on the welts on her back, and every movement made pain spear through her, but as always Titania kept her perfect mask in place, hiding everything that she was feeling. Quite glad that she hadn’t been married to the younger prince, she didn’t protest the dance, knowing she couldn’t. There was nothing she could do, and it was just so much easier to go along with it now, it reduced the chance of her getting hurt so much more.

Everyone was taking advantage of the nice weather to do all the washing, and so Lena was once again lugging the heavy baskets outside to hang them on the line. Spotting the black skinned pet, she watched him from behind the sheets, unwilling to be spotted watching him. There was something highly intriguing about him, and she wasn’t quite sure how she wanted to continue with things. She did want to get to know him a bit better, the carving that he’d given her was so nicely made. Managing to drag her gaze away, she finished her job and headed back inside, coming out soon after with the second load that she had to hang out.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

Sipping a drink and in the midst of discussing some of the business to do with the realm, the lack of a trade master continued to irk him. There was no one in the court he thought could do the job and the other trade faeries he'd interviewed hadn't shown much initiative in that manner. Spotting his brother dancing with his wife his cool features hardened, passing his drink to one of the faeries serving and made his way over, "Excuse me Jacob, I'm going to cut in for a bit" frostily polite he calmly took her hand and waited for his brother. The younger prince scowled and threw a dangerous look at his brother before stalking off to find some other woman to exercise control over. Well aware that now they'd have to dance since he'd interrupted, he guided her into a similar simple dance that didn't take much brain power, walking with her back to the guest he'd noticed her make a beeline for. Oberon lifted his new wifes hand and kissed it once again, he had no idea what had happened to his wife the night before, however it was only a matter of time until he found out, giving a slight bow to the two ladies he wandered off again to take a seat and wish for a book to read.

Working under the hot sun half forgotten songs emitting from him as he hummed them along. Pausing to get a drink of water and a bite to eat he wove his way from the kitchens back out to his work where the wheelbarrow was waiting for him. Continuing to work the dust soon had him coughing, straightening and wiping the dust off of his face, he took a moment to slack after checking that the prince wasn't around. Leaning on the shovel, he flicked his gaze around carefully making sure nto to make eye contact with anyone, tipping the last of the gravel out and dumping the shovel in there he used the rake to even it all out grumbling at the loud noise the rake made against the gravel. The wounds upon his back had dried out over night and split and cracked as he bent over and worked in the heat of the day.

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She’d kept her gaze lowered while dancing with the prince, highly unwilling to anger him further. It seemed that he wasn’t happy she was married to his brother now, and she was rather hoping that she wouldn’t end up being stuck in the middle of sibling rivalry. Breathing a slight sigh of relief when the crown prince came over, she took his hand gratefully, not minding dancing with him quite so much. The pressure on her back still hurt, but that was carefully concealed away so no one could guess, and she walked with him quietly as he escorted her back to Nessa. With a small curtsy, she watched him leave the two women and took her friend’s hand again. “I’m so scared, Nessa,” she murmured, her hand tightening involuntarily. “I don’t want to do this.”

As Lena moved along the washing lines, she ended up finishing close to where the black pet was, and she gave him a pitying look. It was so warm to be working outside, and his constant work seemed to be making his back a little worse for wear. Ducking inside, she came out with some cold water for him, offering it to him as she got closer again. “Are you able to rest for a couple of moments?”

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

Curtsying at the bow with a polite smile she didn't protest her hand being taken again, Vanessa watched the prince move away to sit down and sighed hoping that this match would bode well for her friend. Titania spoke causing her blue eyes to flick to her quietly "I know Tilly" having no idea what was in her own future she continued "i guess all we can do is hope that he's what you've assessed him to be" staying close to her, Nessa was more than aware that was all they could do. The crown prince was her friends husband, she answered to him now, not wanting to bring up some of her own things at such a difficult time she stayed quiet providing gentle support as the night dragged on. All too soon the prince had walked over to them both and offered his wife his arm, his usual cool cold look on his features, once she'd said goodbye to her friend he walked with her out to the already packed carriage that would take them both to one of his favourite places. Opening the door so she could enter he joined her and rummaged under the seats, pulling the books he'd stashed there earlier out he picked one and relaxed back into the seat loosing much of his cold public demeanor, pleased to be heading away from the hectic life at court.

Hearing a quiet but gentle voice cut through the noise of the rake spreading the gravel, the slave paused in his efforts and straightened up a little. Upon recognizing her he straightened up to his full height, as it seemed she didn't seem to be threatened by him, and she wasn't up to any tricks. Spotting the water he reached out and took it "Thank you, Silkwing" such kindness still confused him in a way, how could a pale face be so kind to a dark skinned slave? Offering a slight smile he spoke "For a few moments perhaps" turning the wheel barrow upside down and sitting on it with a sigh he sipped the water, this close and in sufficient light he could see what the woman looked like. Pulling an old worn cloth out of his hand he wiped his face free of sweat and tucked it away again before watching her the small smile still on his features, most of the silkwings appeared to be fairly good looking for pale faces, this one more than most, simply because it wasn't flawless. There were a few small flaws that just made her features all the more real and attractive to him.

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Nodding, the princess stayed quiet, sticking close to her friend for support and comfort, and as the night dragged on, she almost started to look forward to what was supposed to happen later. Finally her husband came over to her, and she took his arm after a polite curtsy. Giving Nessa a fleetingly scared look, she didn’t dare make him wait so she could bid Nessa a more heartfelt farewell and walked with him. Very slightly baulking at having to sit down for another extended period of time, Titania made no more outwards signs of her pain, merely stepping into the carriage and sitting down carefully so that she’d be in the least amount of pain possible. It gave her a slightly warm feeling that he’d hidden books away in the carriage to read, perhaps he really wasn’t going to be so bad after all. Figuring that she’d work that out soon enough, especially after he discovered the caning her father had given her, she turned her gaze out the window, folding her hands neatly in her lap and watched the outside in silence.

Not moving away as he straightened, she passed him the water and leaned against the fence of the washing line area, where he’d been raking the gravel on the other side. “There’s no need to thank me,” she reminded him gently. “Have you had lunch?” There were so many leftovers from the feast that it was getting thrown out, she could probably smuggle some out to him, since he looked to be on the skinny side for someone who did so much hard physical labour. If he did want more, she would definitely find a way to get some to him, maybe smuggled in the washing baskets and hidden for him to find later. Shaking those plans away, she folded her arms on the fence and leaned on them, waiting for his response.

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The carriage ride was long but went fairly quickly once to his books, using a candle so he could keep reading when the sun set he took care to blow it out once the carriage rolled to a halt. Setting his book down the prince exited the carriage and offered his wife a gentle hand, listening to the sound of the surf crashing a slight smile wound its way onto his face. Knowing she wouldn't know what that noise meant until he showed her, he held onto her hand and lead her up into their room, dropping her hand to pull the curtains the full nearly full moon outside illuminated the beach in shades of silver and grey. "Surprise, Princes Titania" smiling quietly he opened the doors admitting a fresh breeze of sea air into the room, walking onto the balcony he leaned against it watching the waves wash up onto the beach "This is my favourite place in the world" happily feeling the breeze gently pull at the fancy clothes he glanced at Titania waiting to see her response to the surprise he'd been carefully keeping quiet until this moment.

Knowing he'd keep thanking her whenever she did something he ignored the comment she made, a slightly hopeful glint entering his gaze when she mentioned food. Something more to eat was what he dreamed about these days more than anything else, he didn't look like he'd come out of a nazi work camp but he wasn't exactly healthily toned as someone who had acess to food as well as hard work. "an extra bit of bread if im lucky mam" his stomach had long ceased trying to cry for more food, these days a small amount of food went further in filling him up anyway. He'd get vegetables and some meat every now and then so that he didn't die of scurvy or a lack of iron, relieved to take the chance to sit down and just rest for a moment he offered her the empty cup back. not really expecting her to do anything else for him despite the hope that still lingered in his gaze at the mention of food. Reminded of something he glanced around making sure that nobody was watching them, he didn't like the idea of getting in trouble with the prince o rmaking trouble for the silk wing who was being kind to him.

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She’d kept silent the whole carriage ride, moving as little as possible on her seat. The pressure of sitting was enough to make her want to cry, but she wasn’t allowed to do that. Moving only slightly when the carriage stopped, she took her husband’s hand silently and stepped out, pausing at the strange sound. “Thank you,” she murmured, referring to being helped out of the carriage, and then she followed him through the dark palace, not trying to take her hand out of his. He was the only familiar thing here now, so she was going to stick to him for the present. As they headed into the bedroom, she fought down her fear, but thankfully he didn’t do anything apart from open the windows and the doors onto the balcony. Watching the moon, she followed him, sniffing the salty air curiously. Intrigued by his apparent surprise, she followed him, her mouth dropping open for a split second as she realised they were at the sea.

The answer made her scowl. “Idiot faeries,” she muttered. “There’s plenty of leftovers still from the ball, I’ll see if I can get some for you tonight.” Reluctantly straightening, she gave him a slight smile. “If you’re around when the sun sets, I’ll bring something.” She gave a bit of a stretch and took the glass back before heading indoors to finish her chores for the day. Slipping into the kitchens later that evening, she found some food that was being tossed and smuggled it outside, heading for the weeping willow thankfully without being spotted.

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Her reaction caused a brief warmth in his chest, watching the way she stared at the beach and sea he offered her his hand "Come, why don't we go for a walk along the beach" it might to her good and help her relax a little, they had the rest of their lives to work up to sleeping together. There were few servants out where which meant they themselves would have to do a little more work but privacy was practically ensured, ignoring the fact that the sea, sand and salt would likely ruin his clothes, the prince was more intent on trying to get the new princess to start the path to trusting him. Once he had her hand he headed back down through the palace with her and on the path to the beach, although not a fan of the sand he loved the noise of the ocean, the waves lulling him to sleep each night when he stayed here. Resisting the urge to run down the beach and into the water like a frivolous child he wasn't aware that the coldness on his face had completely gone, his features were happy and animated, aware that she might not want to get wet he released her hand after kissing it again and walked into the water, kicking some of it back up and spluttering when he managed to get the splashes he'd created all over his legs.

Studying the scowl her words were more pleasant surprises, getting up as she straightened the wheel barrow was set back upon its wheel and the shovel and rake were back inside it as if he'd never taken a break. Nodding in agreement when she mentioned that she'd be around once the sun had set that night, the tall slave watched the silk wing leave, returning to work he turned up at the weeping willow tree a few minutes after her. His hands bloodied, he'd not been productive enough and so he'd been punished, not ashamed of what had been done, Slave didn't bother hiding his hands, perking up visibly at the smell and sight of the food he hung back ever wary of spooking the silk wing and it scurrying off to get him in trouble. Of course he doubted that she'd go tell anyone, she'd get in just as much trouble for trying to feed him, it appeared that the backs of his hands as well as his palms had been caned multiple times. Sitting down in his usual spot, and tired from the days work, the slave leant against the rough trunk of the tree with a sigh.

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Breakfast thankfully was a short affair, and he wasn’t entirely sure where his new wife went afterwards, but that was something he pushed out of his mind for the time being. The cerns were soon arriving, and as he’d been able to guess, his father was trying to take control of them already. Sighing, he headed outside to talk with his father. “Thank you for welcoming them, Father. I’m sure I can handle it from now since they belong to me.” Lifting his chin at the glare he got, he stood his ground until the older lord grumbled and stalked off, and gave a soft sigh. Guessing that his wife would be around, he made a quick glance around for her, soon spotting her. “Lady Nessa, will you come help?” The animals knew her after all, she’d be able to help the servants settle them in, and he’d be able to irritate his father a little by letting her be more in charge of the lovely looking animals as well.

Startled a little by his movement, the words registered a moment after and she took his hand. She’d never thought she’d ever be able to go to the beach or the sea, so this was more than she’d ever thought she’d get. Letting go of his hand when he walked away, she stayed where she was, fighting the urge to take off her shoes to bury her toes in the sand. Though she’d noticed that his iciness had completely melted away, she kept that to herself. It was nice seeing what he was properly like, and he looked like he was having some sort of fun that she’d often dreamed about having. It was such a nuisance always having to be demure and perfect and obedient, always answering to her father and now her husband. Having not known anything else, she was expecting him to be the same as her father, and she was so scared about what new lines she’d have to learn so that she wouldn’t get in trouble like she often did with her father.

Somehow she’d managed to sneak out a decent amount of food and made her way to the willow, ducking under the drooping branches that hid them so well from view. It seemed that this time she’d got there first, but that was okay by her. Setting the food down, it wasn’t too long before he turned up, and she offered him a smile in greeting, passing the leftovers to him. She couldn’t help but notice the new welts and blood on his hands, and she gave a soft sigh. There wasn’t much she could do about that apart from offer some assistance, so even though she wanted to give the prince a piece of her mind, she kept silent about it. “Sorry I took a bit longer.” She’d had things to finish off, and while she didn’t want either of them to get into trouble, she still felt a bit bad for making him wait around for her.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

Looking out to sea he spoke over his shoulder to her "This is the one place i can undoubtedly be myself, it seems only fair this place be the same for you my lady. We're here for a month, in that time i'd like to learn you, not the court lines you've been taught" half turning to look back at her he studied her quietly, he'd been taught by his mother how a wife should be treated. He fully intended to follow through with that, glancing back out to see he splashed again for a moment before returning to her, he'd promised a walk not him standing in the sea staring at the horizon and the moon. Remembering how even as a kid he'd hated the feeling of sand on his skin, but had loved the feel of the ocean like it was washing the world away. Wandering along the beach ignoring his uncomfortably wet socks and pants, he didn't know what else to say or do, it was like his insides were all twisted up and he wasn't entirely sure how to proceed. He wasn't keen on the idea of forcing her to do anything, infact he didn't think he could force himself to force her to sleep with him, it wouldn't go anywhere. Taking a long breath trying to figure out how to say it he came to a halt, "I'm not going to force you to consummate the marriage tonight, when you're ready then we shall, but not before" the princes words were quiet and his blue gaze flicked from her to the sandy shore ahead of him. Out here on the beach suddenly made him feel just as alone as when he was surrounded by people at court, No matter what he did, where he was, he was isolated. The reason why he'd come here was this place saved him each time he visited, when at court peoples lips would move but he'd hear nothing, when he had to focus extra hard to understand the world around him, this place washed it all away. he stopped himself from sighing and instead looked out towards the water.

Shaking his head the slave responded "I was only just released, Silk-wing, You didn't keep me waiting" his fingers barely worked when he took the plate as it was passed to him, resting the plate in his lap he began eating. Trying to keep the tension out of his shoulders, the slave hated being watched while he ate, like he was some tamed beast eating in a cage. Shifting his weight a little uncomfortably all eye contact ceased and he hunched a little over the food, he didn't think she'd be stupid enough to try to take the food back but the sickening feel in his stomach didn't abate until he felt her focus and attention direct elsewhere briefly. As if his hands were healed and fine, the slave ate as easily as they'd allow him to.

Posts : 4737 Join date : 2013-09-09 Age : 27

Managing to meet his gaze when he looked at her, Tilly took a breath at his words, letting it out slowly and quietly. Perhaps there was some sort of hope that this marriage would turn out okay. Joining him as he began to walk along the beach, she still kept all indications of pain hidden and buried. It would take her a while to relax properly and no longer be afraid, but it would likely happen eventually. “Thank you,” she murmured, so very grateful that he wasn’t going to force her. She knew she was being a bit naïve in believing him at face value, but she so very much wanted to believe that it would all be okay, and that the prince wasn’t going to be as heavy handed as her father was. Closing her eyes for a moment, she breathed in the fresh smell of the sea, already deciding that it was one of her favourite places. She was so lucky she’d been able to visit here, even if it ended up just being the once. It would be enough for her.

Spotting that he was a little uncomfortable with her close, Lena moved away, finding a nice rock to sit on that she could use to watch things happening in the garden, yet still be unseen by anyone around. She wasn’t quite sure what to say now, so she said nothing. She’d never been really good at having a silver tongue like most faeries, that was why she was still a lowly general purpose servant and hadn’t been able to move higher up on the ladder as of yet. But she was working on it, and one day she’d be high up in the servant ladder, and be able to move out of her tiny room in the palace and into a much nicer one that perhaps one day she’d be able to share with a mate and start a family. Half closing her eyes as she daydreamed about her ideal future, she was still aware of what the big man near her was doing. While she didn’t think he’d do anything to her – after all it’d be her word against his, and she’d be the one believed – it still didn’t hurt to be aware just in case.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

Unaware of the females thoughts, the dark skinned man finished eating remarkably quickly despite the pain in his hands, carefully picking up the place he offered it back to her. Realizing her eyes were closed he hesitated subtly before clearing his throat somewhat awkwardly "mam? Here" he'd get in trouble if he kept the plate and he had little idea if it'd be missed from the kitchen. The polite term slipped out, it was usually what he called pale skin females, they got offended if they weren't given some sort of honorific that stated they were above he, the lowest of the low. Mam was better than ma'am he firmly believed, people seemed to believe that if you couldn't pronounce words right then you were stupid. He hadn't realized he'd called Lena 'mam' instead of silk-wing which was rapidly becoming a nickname, she didn't seem to mind it which lead him to assume it was okay to use in private. Wishing he could climb the tree to spot the stars from its branches, brown eyes studied the marks on his hands, aware that they'd be less than useless to him right now. Considering a couple of things the slave lifted his gaze from his fingers and looked over at Lena "who are you?" he didn't mean what her name was, he meant who was she as a person, was there a past to talk about or anything that could help him learn whom she was?

Posts : 4737 Join date : 2013-09-09 Age : 27

Drawn out of her dreams by the soft voice, she looked back at him, taking the plate with a slight smile. “Hopefully it was enough for you.” Not really paying attention to what she’d been called, the title was just another thing she was called. He was lower than her on the rankings, so it didn’t really surprise her that he’d let the title slip out. Hopefully though he’d soon relax and work out that she didn’t really care for titles. After all she was one of the lowest servants, she didn’t really have any claim to make for a title. Hearing the question, she studied him for a moment, wishing she could help with the pain that he had to be in from his hands. “A general servant. I’m not entirely sure what else you mean?” She tilted her head a little, her short hair falling into her face and causing her to push it behind an ear grumpily. It was always getting in the way

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

She didn't understand what he'd meant, a general servant was what she was not whom she was, however he decided not to push that tangent. Instead he went quiet for a few moments before choosing what to say next, although the silence was comfortable, it was perhaps worth getting to know who exactly she was. Different from most faeries, he was lost for words for a few moments before taking a breath "I suppose i mean i'm curious, I havent experienced kindness like you've shown me in thousands of years, it wouldn't be unpleasant to get to know you" briefly making eye contact for a few precious moments he looked back down at his hands studying the welts that had been made from the whip. Rather out of practice with eye contact it felt almost alien now, a soft sigh escaped him while his eyes flicked up and studied the branches of the tree. Where was his tribe, had they survived the slavers? His heart still felt pain when he remembered his children although their faces and voices had long been lost to him, tracing the tribal tattoos that covered his arms, some of them told stories others announced his rank within the tribe.

Posts : 4737 Join date : 2013-09-09 Age : 27

Quiet, she listened to him, a slight frown creasing her features. It seemed she had misunderstood the question, but he didn’t seem to want to clarify for her, so she let it pass. She met his eye contact for the brief amount of time that he gave it and offered him a slight smile. “My parents taught me to always be kind, that you don’t know what others have been through and maybe they need a smile.” Reaching out to touch his hand, her gaze gentled. “Do you want me to clean those a little? They look painful.” She didn’t think she’d get in trouble for ducking in to get some water and a rag, she could likely come up with a good story that the other servants would believe, and after all she’d already begun to get some reputation as liking to be outside when the sun set. She didn’t mind that, it was something that she enjoyed anyway.

Main account Posts : 13341 Join date : 2013-08-11 Age : 28

He'd said what he'd meant to say and now there was nothing else to say, he fell silent and didn't say anything else just walking the length of the beach with her. Starting to grow uncomfortable in wet pants and shoes he turned about to head back towards the palace, removing the wet garments and changing into dry ones he sighed to himself. Where he'd been truthful in saying he wouldn't force her to sleep with him, Oberon wasn't about to sleep somewhere other than the bed. Pulling back the covers he sat down for a brief moment before appearing to remember something, getting up and pulling a book out of his suit case the prince got into bed with the book and tugged the covers up flicking to the page where he'd had to put down the book.

Listening silently as Lena explained quietly that her parents had taught her to be kind, that sometimes others needed a smile. In his opinion smiles didnt' do anything, in this rats nest of back stabbing, lying, cheating pale-skins everything at face value meant nothing, however it wouldn't be wise to argue so silent he stayed. The offer of cleaning the welts on his hands was an offer he looked up at "Please" he was used to pain but that didn't mean that it didn't hurt. Complicated thoughts and feelings continued to swirl in his mind, he didn't know how to explain that he wished to understand her and by that same admission get to know her. It was wise to get to know those around him, so he could know how far he could push and when not to say anything, despite knowing english perfectly often times it was difficult to put what he felt into words.