Thread: Rags, Riches, and Rumors [ Bear & LordBesar ]

The King couldn't help but smile at young Ermine. How easily he'd placated her by actually listening and considering what she had said. But that had been his intention in finding a common bride in the first place. While many within the aristocracy had thought that the point of the marriage was only for the sake of giving the peasants some belief that they had one of their own within the confines of the castle and bed of the king. Theolious though, had different thoughts. From the first words he'd heard from the young blonde's mouth, he had known that she could have his confidence and his ear. Her understanding of the populace would provide him with a better understanding of how to bring the two disparate elements of the kingdom back together once more. As they had been in the days when his father reigned over the land. Standing, he held his hand to her and looked to the gathered group. The banquet may continue. My thanks to all. Looking to his mother and sisters, he smiled and then helped guide his bride out of the room and to the hall that would lead to another and finally to the garden that was held within the walls of the palace. Waving off guards that attempted to follow, Theolious had both his dagger and a short two edged sword that was on his side. From the hall to the courtyard, the King soon led his young companion to ground of the palace and within sight of the garden. I take it you were surprised by my acceptance of your words? he asked her with an amused laugh, his bright eyes rarely leaving her face. My confidants and those who reside in my court will no doubt raise issue. As they did to the notion of marrying a commoner before the merit of the cause could be explained. With that said, there is little doubt they won't resist. The challenge faced is too great. Suddenly he stooped, underneath a large elm that shaded a bit of the garden. Reaching for her other soft hand, he held them softly and looked deeply into her eyes. Ermine, He said, looking into her eyes with a focused gaze. You will soon be my Queen. I have decreed, and no law prohibits it. You will be first in my house behind only my person. Holding more authority than all but the absolute most powerful of my lords. I wish for you to keep that in mind. Sighing, he let go of her other hand and held only her left as they walked side by side. Pointing out many plants and herbs, and offering her the opportunity to plant her own if she so wished. Looking down at her, he couldn't help but smile and admire her young body. Beginning to imagine how she might look in his bed. This garden was planted by my paternal grandmother Uluira. Theolious spoke, beginning to tell her some of the history. She adored flowers, and was as bright as a sunflower before her death some years ago. He wasn't sure what she had learned and hadn't. Education among the commoners was mysterious and confusing. He knew not what she might have learned or heard regarding the kingdom and the history therein. My father had fresh sunflowers planted each year in her honor upon her death. I have carried on the tradition and plant them every season since my ascension to the throne. Pointing to a large oak tree a distance away, he smiled before frowning in memory. I planted that for my father when I returned from the war. He was slain in the back by an arrow. Not a day goes by when I am in the palace that I do not come to pay my respects. The tree reminds me of him, the strength he showed. I believed him to be immortal in my youth. Now I know he was just as subject to the sands of time and fury of war as we all are. Sighing deeply, he smiled at her once more. I wish to know much of you. he asked with a smile. What you most love, your own history. It also should be said, while we are in court you are to refer to me as My Lord or My King. In private however, you may call me Theo. Something only my father, mother and sisters have ever been permitted to say. The wedding was only a short time away. But already Theo was eagerly awaiting that day. To see her in white. And to bring her to his bed for the first time after.