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Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

So you are saying I should hide my most flagrant flaws until we are wed? Well, I suppose if it is but three days, Viola teased, finding a genuine smile as she tried to relax into her role. Still Olivia regarded her with suspicion, surely looking for some reason to call off the wedding. Viola could sympathize, having spent enough time herself chasing off suitors. To trap this woman in an unhappy marriage made Violas stomach, turn and despite her parents wishes, she had to do something. I am sure your parents just want your happiness, Olivia. Its just, in their minds, such happiness would derive from marriage. And it may well be the fact that marriage would bring you happiness, but I cannot speak to your mind. So, do you think marriage would bring you happiness? I dont want you to wed me out of obligation. And you hardly know me well enough to decide if you like me or not. Three days really isnt enough time to make such a decision. At the risk of upsetting my parents I feel I should be honest with you. Viola cringed, internally, at the word honest, but this was the best way to spare her. I am sure you had heard that I was injured, in my recent duel. It was likely the fact that Sebastian had been injured was impossible to hide from the upper echelon gossips. The extent of said injuries had been under wraps, literally and figuratively, by her household, but now it was possibly the only way of getting out of this absurd predicament she was in. This injury will prevent me fromconsummating our marriage, on our wedding night, and for a few months after, I am afraid. It would be grounds for delaying the wedding, if not calling it off completely. Viola sighed, drinking her tea while she sought the words, suddenly embarrassed she had let this all out so quickly. Of course, it was the plan, all along, but she wasnt supposed to say anything until the vows were said. Perhaps she was still negotiating that point of no return. Or she was jealous of her brothers undeserved fortune, and wanted to sabotage him. My parents will have me disciplined if you call off the marriage on my account, but the thought of forcing this upon you is far more distasteful to me than anything my parents could do. Our marriage might be an obligation, now, but Id rather it were a happy obligation.
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

I think marriage to the right man would bring me happiness, Olivia admitted with a shrug. It's just a matter of whether you're the right man. She considered him briefly over the rim of her cup. You're charming enough certainly, but charm does not necessarily a happy marriage make and I find charmers are often liars. Then the other shoe dropped, so to speak. She had heard of his injury in the duel and her eyes widened when he mentioned that it would prevent him from consummating their marriage. Surely he hadn't...? No, she'd have heard if an accident of that magnitude had happened. Surely it wouldn't prevent you from consummating it indefinitely? she asked, concerned. Her eyes searched his body as though she had missed some injury gushing blood over his pristine white uniform. There was no such blood, of course. He suggested that they postpone the marriage if not call it off and she raised an eyebrow briefly it sounded more like he wanted out of the marriage. Sebastian, she put a hand on his knee briefly, if you don't want to marry me then say so. You are not the one pushing me into this, they are. And if it isn't you it will be someone else. If I tried to call things off they wouldn't listen to me if you tried to call things off they'd try to reason with you, or with your family. I'm not sure you understand that it isn't up to us anymore. This arrangement has been months in the making and neither of our families are going to back down just because we don't want to do it. Olivia gave him a brief smile. Wouldn't you like to at least try getting to know one another before trying to call it off? That's all I was asking for.
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

Viola smiled and tried to hide the hard swallow that followed her accusation that charmers were often liars. The truth of it stung, and she wished she could prepare a proper defense. All she could do was provide was provide the visage of honestly, relaying the injuries that would prevent consummation, for time being. Not indefinitely, no. A month or two, at most. She elaborated. Ironically enough, Sebastian may very well be able to consummate a marriage in his present condition, if the bride were to do all the work. It was just the traveling, walking and talking that were impossible for him. Still, she felt embarrassed by Olivias eyes upon her, examining her for proof of said injury. Fearful her keen sense would discover the ways in which she was lacking. That fear grew as the countess touched her knee, ever so slightly, as nice as it felt. Not trying to call off our betrothal. It justthe thought that you are being forced to the altar against your will is unpleasant. Not to mention a blow to my ego that a woman would not want to marry me, of her own volition. She laughed, weakly, meeting Olivias eyes, feeling as if she could have drowned in them. I could not forgive myself if I were the cause of your quiet unhappiness. Her hand came up now, to trace Olivias jaw and rest upon her chin, holding her gaze for the moment. Damn Sebastian. He had better be grateful for his divine prosperity. Ive always held that there is nothing sweeter than a kiss freely given.
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

A month or two wasn't so bad then. I've made do for twenty years, I don't think another month or two will kill me, she admitted with a small smile before explaining that the choice wasn't theirs to make. She laughed when he admitted that it would be a blow to his ego, and that the idea of forcing her to the altar was unpleasant. I'm a woman, Sebastian, she said with amusement in her voice. I endure far more unpleasantries than you would ever imagine, an arranged marriage being the least of those. And if it weren't with you then it would be with someone else. Someone old or ugly or cruel, or any combination of the three. So there's for your ego that I don't think you're any of those. Then Sebastian's dark eyes met hers and she felt her knees go a little weak when he confessed how seriously he took the charge of causing her unhappiness. His hand slid along her jaw and she leaned her cheek into it a little before it slid to her chin. Those eyes...dear God those eyes... This kiss was not her first kiss ever, but it was one of the few. Sebastian's lips were soft, his scent spicy. Olivia squeezed his knee gently before pulling her lips away. The kiss hadn't lasted more than ten seconds but it had felt like forever. She rolled her bottom lip over her teeth and unsuccessfully tried to hide a shy but pleased smile. Was that sweet enough for you? Though she was quietly horrified that she had been so bold as to kiss him before they were even married, without asking, without more than an implied prompt, within half an hour of meeting him, Olivia felt like she successfully hid her horror beneath a veneer of assuredness. It was a nice kiss, actually, and she in fact wanted to kiss him again. Better to ask this time though. Or shall I try again to convince you that you're not the one holding a knife to my throat?
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

Viola hadnt intended to kiss Olivia, even as she caressed her face and spoke of kissing. But she closed her eyes and closed the distance between them, and like the gentlemen Viola was supposed to be, she kissed her back. A bold move, even as it remained chaste, just lips brushing and pressed together. And the adorably shy look on her face afterwards was infectious, as Viola found herself giggling. Not exactly a manly gesture so she reached for her tea to cover for the lapse, unable to look away from the countess. Was that sweet enough for you? Like the first taste of summer strawberries, Viola replied, finding herself unable to stop smiling at Olivia, the womans self confidence an incredibly alluring trait. Just as alluring as the creamy valley of cleavage revealed by her corset. Or shall I try again to convince you that you're not the one holding a knife to my throat? Far be it from me to deny my lady wife anything. Viola said, cupping Olivias face this time, My soon to be wife, that is She pressed her lips against Olivias this time, teasing her with the feel of her tongue. Gently beseeching entrance to her mouth, but not moving further than which Olivia was ready. Your brothers wife , her mind reminded her, as she moved to deepen the kiss, causing her to pull back. Sebastian was clearly a fool, getting himself injured before he could taste her lips. The mad fantasy of seducing Olivia away from her brother entered her mind, leaving as quickly as it entered as reality set in. It would never work, not for any conceivable amount of time. Perhaps we should restrain our passion, until our wedding night? Temperance is a virtue, after all. Viola suggested, punctuating the request with a soft kiss on the cheek
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

He was giggling! Oh sure, he hid it with a sip of tea but Olivia had caught it, and she wasn't able to catch herself when she found herself falling in love with him right there. Sebastian's smile was almost giddy and only made her grin more widely and look away shyly. The entire point is to fall in love, she had to remind herself even as she desperately tried to stop the sudden tide of affection for him. Tess had chided her as they talked over and over it for being determined not to like her future husband, and now it seemed there was nothing at all to dislike. Then they were kissing again. Olivia's brain went fuzzy as he cupped her cheek and pressed his lips to hers. Sebastian's tongue gently begged entrance to her mouth but Olivia hesitated, parting her lips only a little this was now out of her tiny realm of experience and she wasn't entirely certain what to do. Her dilemma was solved when he pulled back from their kiss, allowing her to once again grin shyly and turn her gaze to the carpet. Her thighs quaked, her pulse raced, and her face burned. The Countess was completely smitten. Oh so you've decided to keep me then, have you? Olivia teased, finally looking back up at him just in time for his lips to catch her cheek. Her flush only deepened and she gently twisted the fabric of her skirt between her hands. Have a care, Viscount deny me nothing and you're likely to have completely spoiled me before the month is out. Clearing her throat, she sipped at her tea with unsteady hands, the adrenaline of the sudden displays of passion still coursing through her veins. Well, she said after a few moments of silence, since we can't simply sit here tasting strawberries all afternoon, pleasant though that may be, would you care for a walk in the gardens? We can get to know one another a little better, now that we've decided we don't despise each other. There are a few beds out there I tend to myself, though of course the gardens as a whole are far too large for only me.
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

Id love to see your garden. The garden outside that is, Viola couldnt help teasing one last time, finishing off her tea before standing. Offering a hand, she helped Olivia up, folding Olivias arm in with her own. Tell me, what do you tend to in your garden? And how do you tend it? I have a hard time imagining you get down in the dirt, pulling up weeds, and the like. Making their way outside, Viola was immediate hit with the scent of orange blossoms. She had heard Versailles was famous for its orange groves, with a whiff, she could understand why. The bouquet of floral and citrus scents put Viola at ease. The aromas, and Olivias pleasant warmth, that was. They were indeed hitting it off, despite whatever hesitations Viola may have found in the matter. So you are good courtship, she heard in her mind, in her mothers judgmental voice. Viola laughed into her closed mouth at the thought. Yes, turns out Ive been on the wrong side of it this whole time. While her parents were just barely tolerant of her little nighttime excursions, she knew they would never accept that she was only attracted to women, and that the thought of taking a man into her bed was nauseating. Of course her mother assured her that her desire didnt matter so much, just that she performed her wifely duty. Still, she didnt want to think of the unpleasant things her future may have held. Instead she wanted to focus on the lovely woman on her arm, the lovely woman she still need to ensure was enamored with her ungrateful brother. Do you spend much of your time out here, Olivia?
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

After briefly picturing her nude among the plants, on her hands and knees with flecks of dirt stuck to her smooth skin, Viola shook her head. watching the light in Olivias eyes as she spoke of her garden. Her enthusiasm really was infectious. Viola herself could hardly tell the difference between lilies and lilacs, though she was fairly certain lilacs were purple, but as Olivia spoke, Viola could hardly imagine a more interesting topic. So she continued to pepper Olivia with questions, giving the woman a chance to go into details about her hobby. Selfish as it might have been, Viola didnt really care about the answers, and really only half listened. Instead she was enamored with Olivias unrestrained joy, the pride she took in her garden and plants. The glow on her features, as she described each plant and its peculiar idiosyncrasies. The vibrancy of the garden seemed to bring Olivia to life. Dutifully, she followed her betrothed to the sunflowers, laughing lightly as Olivia strained to reach one. They are something. I wonder if our good king knows about them yet? He really seems to be of the opinion that the sun revolves around him. Im sure the palace of Versailles will be overflowing with them, if he were to find out. Though, they would still pale in comparison to yours. Viola sat on the nearby bench, finding she needed a moment to catch her breath. The damned bandages, as bad as a corset, without the benefit of an excuse to be winded. And still, Olivia was fine, carrying about as if she werent bothered by the tight bindings. Tell me, Olivia, might I share a queer thought with you, pertaining to the Americas? Viola asked, clearing her throat as she felt the strain of maintaining her baritone. The Spanairds claim they discovered it, yes? Discovered this new land, and the population of natives who call it home. Now Olivia, I must be mistaken, but it occurs to me, if these explorers discovered a land with people already living there, it wasnt really discovered at all? Or at the very least, Spaniards cant claim to discover a land where civilization is already present. Its the height of arrogance. Its just like men to discover a thing people have known for years, and take credit for it.
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

Olivia prattled on about the different types of flowers, answering Sebastian's questions and growing more and more obviously excited. She did notice that he didn't seem to care particularly about the answers to his questions, but rather the way she looked as she answered them. She blushed as he stared, but didn't bring it up for now. Taking his hand and tugging lightly at his arm she pulled him over to the sunflowers, explaining where they came from and how they grew. She frowned briefly when Sebastian mentioned the king, then laughed at the implications of him finding out about sunflowers. He'd be disappointed that they wouldn't follow him. See the way the flowers are facing now? Olivia pointed to the closest one. When the sun moves from morning to afternoon, they'll follow it. So this evening they'll be facing the other way. It's fascinating! Sebastian sat on a nearby bench and Olivia followed, frowning. She watched his face as he set forth his question about the New World, looking for signs of pain in his face. Very like, she agreed, still watching him carefully. Just like Spaniards, especially. Sebastian are you alright? How are your wounds? She took his hand in both of hers and scooted closer, resting them in her lap and looking concerned. Would you like to go back inside to sit?
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

Olivia took notice of her difficulty, but fortunately enough for Viola, she assumed it was related to her injury. So sorry, Olivia. I am finding myself winded more easily as my wounds heal. No need to go back inside, the fresh air is certainly helping, if anything. She smile up at Olivia, scooting over to give her some room to join her on the bench, if she so desired. Tell me more about the sunflowers. Where did you get the idea to plant them? Did you have them brought from the new world specifically, or did you discover them among the trade goods? She tried to take the focus off of herself, give Olivia another excuse to gush about this subject she had taken to so passionately. Mostly because she wanted to listen, and not speak herself. Speaking as her brother was growing more difficult, and she could feel her throat becoming more parched. It had been over an hour so far, and usually when she played this ruse, she had already sealed the deal at this point, or her target was drunk enough that she did notice if Viola slipped into her natural voice. And of course drinking alcohol during certainly helped. Fortunately for her, As Olivia was winding down from her explanations, a servant approached them, apologizing profusely for interrupting their private time, and informing them that lunch was ready to be served, waiting only on their presence. So Viola stood and offered Olivia her arm once more, as they made their way back inside, this time surrounded by her men and Olivias ladies. Viola was quick to pull out Olivias chair, hoping she approved of such chivalrous displays. Viola took her seat next to her bride to be. Glasses were filled with wine, and Coq au Vin was generously served to each guest, with a side of fresh vegetable that Viola recognized from the garden. Tapping her glass before anyone started in Viola stood to give the toast. To the lovely and generous Countess Olivia, the woman I am looking forward to making my wife!
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

Olivia recognized his desire to rest a little, regardless of what he said, and so indulged him for a while. She chatted animatedly about how she had seen a sketch of sunflowers brought back by explorers in the New World and had just known she had to have some. She excused herself for being rude before standing on the bench--though in truth she was fond of climbing trees and other such unladylike things--reach the head of one of the sunflowers then stepping down. She'd watched squirrels and birds crack open the seeds as she did now and eat the kernels, which she shared with Sebastian. Finally she'd run out of things to say and was preparing for what would hopefully be a comfortable silence when a servant came to bid them come to lunch. I'm afraid I've babbled on, she said as she took Sebastian's arm. One of those useless females i suppose, endlessly chattering. Since we spent the morning on me, after lunch I want to know all about you. When they came to the dining room Olivia knew her parents would be mortified at what a terrible hostess she'd been she had forgotten all about Sebastian's men. Fortunately her ladies had covered for her and she thought she even saw Lady Marie smiling flirtatiously at one of the men, who smiled back. When Sebastian toasted her, however, she blushed a little in embarrassment. Some ladies enjoyed being the center of attention Olivia rarely did. Her friends, who knew this, exchanged glances before watching to see what she would do. Suitors in the post who had tried to flatter her with public attention had fared poorly. And to charming and handsome Viscount Sebastian, she added, who I'm sure will make a most excellent husband. The others echoed their toasts and raised their glasses. Please don't do that again unless there's very good reason, Olivia murmured into her drink before taking a sip. The coq au vin was divine and the company agreeable. Olivia knew she got on with her betrothed well enough, but she also knew that his friends could dissuade him from the match or at least from liking her. Therefore she spent the meal in lively conversation with his men, though her attention couldn't help but keep wandering back to Sebastian himself.
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

Viola could feel the color drain from her face as Olivia murmured into her glass. She had embarrassed the woman, and that embarrassment now transferred over to her. So sorry, my lady. It wont happen again. She wanted Olivia to like her. Well, Sebastian. Her as Sebastian. Or maybe just her. Your brothers betrothed, her mind hissed at her. A clever, and charming and witty and lovely woman, who deserved happiness in this life. Could Sebastian give that to her? Possiblypossibly. Could she give it to her? Viola wasnt sure. She wanted to, wanted to try, wanted to spend a lifetime trying. But then she would never be Viola again. Viola drank deeply of her wine. She was being ridiculous. She had just met this woman, there was no reason to have fallen so hard for her. Perhaps it was the life she had fallen in love with. The kind of life where she could take a wife, a wife who would dote on about plants and flowers. Sighing, she pushed the pleasant fantasy form her mind, mentally filing all the information she had gathered this day. She needed to start a journal, she noted, cutting into her chicken. With all the important details Sebastian would need once he returned. Little things, like Olivias love of gardening, and her dislike of toasts about herself. She could probably write some letters, to Viola of course, so he would know some things before he even arrived. Olivia, You are an only child, yes?, Viola asked, spearing a green bean with her fork before bringing it to her mouth. My sister, Viola,wont be present to attend the wedding, unfortunately. Scaring off her own courters, no doubt. Though she was hoping to visit for a time. Once we were settled, a month or so after the wedding.
Thread: On the Twelfth Night... (Madam Mim and Xana)

Sebastian paled and immediately apologized, which Olivia accepted with a nod and a gracious smile. She enjoyed the meal by his side and imagined how pleasant it would be to spend nearly every meal by his side. He was such a sweet gentleman, after all he would likely be a lenient husband even if they grew bored of each other, which was all she could really ask for. For now, however, Olivia pushed away thoughts of the long term and enjoyed the whirlwind excitement of infatuation. Yes, unfortunately I'm my parents' only surviving child, she confirmed. Much to my father's sorrow my brothers were stillborn. She didn't mention that this had caused a great deal of tension in her parents' marriage, particularly when she had come into the world squalling and healthy between two pregnancies which had ended in stillborn males. He'd learn that in time, or at least before her parents came to stay with them. At the mention of his sister she smiled. Well it's a shame she won't make it for the wedding, but I did hear a bit about her, she replied. By all accounts a fiery young woman I can't wait to meet her! If she's anything like you we'll get along famously, I think. I've always wanted a sister. She'll have to stay a month at least. I won't hear of anything less. Olivia grinned before taking another bite if chicken. What's she like? Second-hand accounts are one thing, but you must know her better than anyone.