Post by hotarokaori on Jul 6, 2008 16:59:42 GMT -6
Set In Her Way: "Your Grace, Captain de la Cost has arrived, and a companion, a Lady Hotaro.." the page's youth registered in his abuse of foreign names. Beathag had compassion for his mal-aligned tongue over the consants and vowels that were difficult to read from a page, let alone draw out of memory. She smiled, giving the wave of her hand that set him free from the embarrasment of stumbling on words. "That be enough, Bernard. Show them in, tis been a meetin' I've looked forward too all day now." Nothing to overhere, oversee, or negotiate. No hard business but talk among friends from what she suspected was of a tender, good nature that would increase smiles. Happy people made for a happy land, thus they were allowed to prosper, to decide, to thrive. A maid put down a tray of various things to eat and drink, while the Duchess went through the business of arranging her mistrewn hair into place with the help of a silver comb. (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Okay, it was a warm enough day. Perhaps that could account for the warmth in her cheeks. She wasn't blushing. No. Kaori? Please. She was to meet Marcos at the castle, and there Marcos had been, as planned. Well, so far things were going well enough, what better could she have really asked for? Curtseys seemed so formal and unnecessary, but considering they were at the castle, she would go through the proper motions. It was rare now for her to wear suchformal attire, yet there she was, clad in a blue gown, her hair pulled up into a tight twist. She was glad that he, too, appeared quite dapper. It seemed in no time at all they're arrival was being announced and they were being summoned to a meeting room. Odd it was, that Kaori had so little to say. Her throat was awfully dry, however. That could account for it, by all means. Still, she smiled at Marcos as they started toward the room they were directed to. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos was as usual the cool, calm, collective sort when it came to speaking his mind and the things he wanted along with how he was to go about getting them. He was glad to see her, looking as beautiful as always he thought and he would smile more when she accepted his arm he had offered. The page began to lead them to the room where the Duchess could be found, a few glances to Kaori a at times until they reached the room. Upon entering, Marcos would be the: first to speak. "Buenas tardes Senora Duchess... I hope we are not keeping you from anything." The Spaniard said as he gave a bow and straightened back up. "However, this should only take but a few moments of your time and then we will leave you to your day that I am sure is to be a busy one." Marcos added with a grin.<d
Set In Her Way: A silver comb to wind up the golden hair, to show the face with a warm hearted smile, with a youth defying the thirty-five years that had seen life in this skin. The accents of her dress were silver knotwork in an ocean of sea-greenwhere the color even kissed the leather vambraces on her wrist where linen was puffed around in delicate fashion. A cloud of serenity with a wild-storm brewing in its heart. "Good day, Captain, please, ye are nay disturbing a thing. Lord Aodhan has been so gracious as to share," she chuckled, leaning over to kiss the head of the generous little boy before he was led away by his nurse, "Indeed, tis time for his Lordship to have his oh-so-important nap. Come, ye both,sit, drink. Tell me what brings ye hence today. What e'er it is, do it more often, Kaori is too much o' an apparition,I think I bore her," she teased (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Looking from Marcos to Bess, she couldn't help but positively beam. Bess was a friend of old, after all, and though she was very nervous about what they were there to discuss, it was good to see her, too. Laughing she shook her head, her eyes widening a bit. "Indeed not! That you would even conceive of such a thing," she said, approaching her a few paces and, of course, dropping those curtseys that Bess so loved. She was, after all, always standing upon ceremony. Kaori, being who she was, was rarely one to forego it at any rate. Rarely, at least. She would wait for Bess to be seated before taking one herself, but didn't know what to say that didn't sound absurd. "It's always good to see you. And we come with a request of a very pleasant nature, I think." Her mouth remained opened and it looked as if she had more to say, but couldn't find words. At last she gave up, looking toward Marcos a bit helplessly. What in the world was going on with her? If Kaori hadn't words, the sky had surely gone purple and cows were probably flying from their pastures. (D)
Of Sea And Sword: Low was the rumble in his chest as the chuckle traveled to his throat and then expelled for those gathered to hear. "As you wish Senora...and rest well lil senor."He said as Aodhan was led away. Marcos would let the ladies take their seats first and then his own. Kaori seem to start the explanation for their visit but lost her voice. That had him grinning and he would take over, his eyes settling with those of Bess. "Senora... I will not hesitate in giving your lands." He glanced to Kaori, gave a wink and a smile before looking back to Bess. "So.. I am here to ask permission from the Duchess and the Duke to Court the Lady Kaori Hotaro." <d
Set In Her Way: Laughter begets laughter. The environment was one of ease that she hoped would translate to Kaori, who seemed more suited to flittering about in a plethora of supposed-important tasks then sitting down. Ah, her friend had become a nervouse little butterfly, hadn't she? While the Duchy requested only to be made known of what went on in such ways among people, many observed the old formality of seeking esteemed permission. It had become a rite of passage one might say, a way of assuring a blessing and gracious favoritism to ensure a happy match. Behind the emerald eye lay the mind able to deduce which matches would endure or cripple in their infancy. Prudent eye was applied to a pair
of friends who crossed ties in attempt to cross stars. Wry grin formed on the mouth, "Ah, is tha' so? Tis honorable bent for you, Captain, to observe such a custom n' shows your great care and attention to such a Lady.Were tha' she would be a Lady in the court with us," a subtle way of asking, two birds with one stone, " if I could pin her down to say boo. But upon the first matter, so long as the Lady has given her approval n' ye both seek such o' free will, ye have the blessing o' m'self and of the Duke. Now, shall ye both drink wine to it, tea, or what? I have a full cart here n' have already been saddled with m' customary summer honey ale." (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Kay was sitting there like the cat that ate the canary. Well, Marcos got right to the point, very unusual for Kaori. Why, they were supposed to beat around the bush for at least another few minutes. Ah well, there it all was, on the table, wrapped up with a pretty little bow. Should objections be posed, Kay has her arguments at the ready. Why, she knew it was insane for a man such as Marcos to desire a courtship with her. She was too dull and he was too handsome! However, he refused to see reason and there they were. The offer was noted, but the permission made her eyes close and a relieved sigh escape her lips. "Thank you," she whispered before opening her eyes and smiling at Bess. "I've been actually wanting to get pinned down for some time now. My affairs in Loreil are settled, my responsibilities well underhand and I'm not so overwhelmed any longer. I wish to be more involved with the kingdom now. To be more of a presence." In truth, it had been both loneliness and a desire to avoid more heartache that had kept her locked in her office for hours at a time. No contact, no hurt. Somehow Marcos had gotten through to her. Over the last couple days, she felt in a way reborn. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: "Si, it is so..." He answered as he awaited the approval or the deniying from the Duchess. It mattered not to Marcos if Kaori was a Lady of the Duchess court, as he was a man to see things be done properly. "Gracias Senora Bess...for giving your permission." The Captain paused a moment and glanced to Kaori before letting his dark eyes rest once more on Bess. "She is a very special senorita...and si..I will join you in this drink. As I am never a man to turn down such a thing. Especially wine..." said the man with a grin. As Kaori had found out, Marcos' family in his homeland of Espaina had their own winery and vineyard. He was sure this was something others would find out in time, but for now, all things would remind a mystery save to Kaori. Why? Because she had a way about him, able to open him up like others could not and have him share the more intimate details of his being andhis past.<d
Set In Her Way: "Wonderful. All this cart would 'ave done no good in a room with me. I'm too plain fer wine most days, n' on others would go right for what is ancestral or stronger." Also she abstained from wines, nor was she much for tea unless the reason was medicinal or benefitial, another thing she did not speak much on. Those that tended close knew that the drinks mixed with honey, fermented with certain grains were said to be good for the conception of children and restoritave health of the body. Even the scotch, alas, was not indulged in much. One vice exchange for a lesser. Saying no to the maid's kind offer, she would tend her friends herself as if it were but days of yore, "Here, Captain, a good wine, though ye may better be the judge of such. Kaori, what do ye want darlin'? M'stores seem to be more plentiful than a few years ago." When she moved it was graceful, one could almost forget the constant hitch had in the left hip and leg. A few years, several adventures, several rewards, several prices paid. She smiled to Kaori all the more, "Stop holdin' yer breath. In earnest tis a rare occasion I am made to say nay to a courtship, and in such case tis usually for a more frightin' reason than ye''d think. Come now, I may have a coronent for my head n' a castle to my name, but tha' name is still Bess to a great many. Time has changed the outside, nay the in. " (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Her brows lifted, as she was posed a question. She supposed a drink would be called for in such an occasion. If nothing else, as Bess noted, the girl seriously needed to loosen up. She hadn't a clue under what basis a courtship might be denied, but considering her luck, she'd probably have figured out the way without realizing it. Fortunately, if she had, it had not yet been discovered! "Oh, I'll have some wine, too, please. If I may." She couldn'thelp but laugh at Bess' words, shaking her head. "And I'm not so delusional. I know full well it takes more than a castle to change you." Smiling at Marcos, she said, "I knew Bess when she owned a charming tavern and had little else to concern herself with other than making sure the pottage didn't burn." She gave him a pointed look before chuckling. Were times ever so simple? She doubted it at times, and at other times it seemed only yesterday. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos would again laugh and nodded as he accepted the offered wine from Bess. His eyes would shift between the two women as words were exchanged and teasing it seemed was to be had at the expense of Kaori. Something he was sure was all in good humor and something that wasn't so foreign between old friends, like these he came to just find out. "Oh? so both have known the other for a time then..si?" He asked with a smile and a drink of his wine was had. A brow arched as he eyed the glass and nodded. It was indeed a good wine...spiced with summer flavors and full with texture. Those chocolate orbs moved to Bess and he commented. "Si, this is a good wine Senora...might I ask where you acquired this?" The Captain had to ask as wine was his other passion when not on the waters of the seas.<d
Set In Her Way: "Aye. Tis the same with Jelenah, with Eirian. In truth, Eirian purchase the inn on the permission o' the former tenants, and I had been behind the bar through a set o' owners already. The small lady was kind enough to put m'name right beside her own, thus how I owned the first piece o' anything since I was a girl. Jelenah came perhaps a year or so after tha' time, n' Kaori visited us e'ery day. So tha' was how it was, and the story o' how a barmaid becomes a Duchess," The story was one she never tired of, for though no one knew her true name save one person? The times were good. Had that life ne'er changed she would have ne'er sought to change it, but all things occur for a reason. Fate wanted her to return, to be honest, and to come home. It wanted to give her the clues to unravel her true place in the world and take hold of a birthright. One can only hope such was true of the other women from thetime when life seemed so sure of itself before the fall. "Kaori n' Eirian were favorites of her majesty, n' I was just the snappish Highlander tha' made sure they all ate, and the wine Captain? The wine comes from vineyards in France." (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Oh, yes. Bess, Eirian, Jelenah and Kaori all went way back. And despite the tribulations Kaori had to endure to get to where she was now, she'd not have it any other way. She had not felt this perfectly content in a long time. Her burdens seemed to way so much less. She was just bloody... happy. And it wasn't the put on happy she used to sometimes force, but it was genuine. So long as history stopped repeating itself, perhaps this time it would endure. Remembering she was once a shared favorite of a queen made her blush again. It had been so long ago! "She did make me eat, too. She used to set such good food in front of me I'd stuff myself like a right pig," Kay said, shooting a faux irritated look at the Duchess. She sighed, shaking her had. "Much to Private Gabriel's chagrin, I no longer eat in such a way," she said, shooting a teasing look at Marcos. Marcos had heard of Private Gabriel who had taken a fancy to Kaori since returning to Stargard. Marcos wasn't the jealous type, however (at least not seemingly), and the joke was obvious. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: The Captain relaxed a bit more, sliding further back into his seat while he continued to enjoy the wine and listen to the two women speak of times past. He had no doubt that theirs was a bond that had survived much it seemed. This to him was good, to be able to observe the women whom he had come to admire in many ways and that more things were known to him about Kaori without her having to tell them. He flashed a smile, nodding. "Si... I am thinking this Gabriel needs to open his eyes more often, before he blindly finds himself in much trouble." The Spaniard jested, however there was a bit of hidden truth behind that. Whether that trouble was to be with Marcos or not would remain unknown and the women could take it as they wished. Marcos wasn't the jealous type, but they didn;t mean the man would see to matters himself when it came to the people he cared for. Kaori being at the top of his list now and he had every intention of taking care of all matters when concerning her. "From France... hmm... " He then said as he pondered a moment on the drink then looked back between the ladies before enjoying more of the liquid. <d
Set In Her Way: "M'thinks if Kaori lingered long enough in many a kitchen in Turas Lan, she'd be eatin' with the zeal o' a man tha' hasn't seen a set table in many years. Elise cooks a wonderous spread 'ere, I still cook a lunch or supper often. Miss Alicia Rose at the Briar Rose Inn, ye've ne'er tasted such heaven. N' at the Bannockburn they make a fine stew. So worry nay twixt them n' festivals there will be plenty o' time to remind ye tha' it is alright nay to live like a bird." So many of the women had been so small that Beathag wanted to stuff them up so widths expanded for the good of their health! Willow branches and will-o-the wisps all of them! She was a tree herself, with the proportions of having been over thirty with none of the thin lines of a maid, to which she ne'er recieved a single complaint, though it baffled her why folk sought after a bar maid to fancy when they had a choice of young, viable women flitting about. That question was never really answered until she was courted by and fell in love with Adam, who elected a callused handed, odd made lady of the king's making who favored docks to darning. (d)
Hotaro Kaori: She groaned after taking a sip of the wine, looking toward Marcos apologetically. "It would appear, Captain, that there is a plot to make me very fat underway." She looked down at herself, sighing. "If you lot cost me a courtshipthere will be no mercy. My despair will be felt by all within a mile's radius," she warned Bess before smiling. Well, in truth, Bess had been privy to some of Kay's worst times, and Kay had learned quickly that when she was that miserable, it was best she remove herself from the area so as not to bring down the mood entirely. That was then, however. Hopefully moving forward, there wouldn't be so much reason to shun merriment. She was feeling rather merry herself, of late. Her eyes shot toward Marcos and lingered. After a few moments she realized she was staring and shook her head out a bit, finding something very interesting about her wine glass all of a sudden. (d)
f Sea And Sword: Those chcolate orbs shifted from Bess to Kaori when she spoke of this plot. He laughed and gave a shake of his head and a dismissive wave of his hand. "Do not worry mi Senorita.. I am not going any where should you not keep your current figure or no...as you have now come to know, you will have a hard time ridding yourself of me." He said with a flashy smile and a look that would refer to a previous morning in his quarters. That of course wouldn;t be madeknown to the Duchess, but his look should be enough to remind Kaori herself. Nothing intimate had happened of course, but the small woman was making things hard on him. All he could do was simply grin like a cheshire cat.<d
Set In Her Way: A cheshire cat speaks volume with the width of his mouth and the teeth shining. Beathag could see humor, a wanting. All good signs of a match when coupled with the sense and pragmatism of each. Chortling, the Duchess could not help but to say, "Ah, tis the Captain's way o' sayin' he is a man of many favored tastes. N' like wine, tis as much the shape of the bottle as the sweetness inside tha' captures his attention, so m'thinks ye've paid a great deal o' attention, Captain Marcos, to Lady Kaori's wine bottle." A regal heir collapsed into an old fashioned snort before laughted ensued that came form the core of her gut. "Och, forgive me. Twas too good nay to use." (D)
Hotaro Kaori: Kay winced a bit, her chin dipping downward, but she couldn't help the laughter she had tried to suppress. Bess' pride in herself just made it that much worse, and soon she was shaking and she finally had to laugh out loud. Even still, she managed to shoot a warning look to Marcos. "Don't you dare make any comment on what she just said! I can scarcely believe I'm even dignifying such a thing by acknowledging it." Kay's propriety, however, was obviously put on. Marcos knew she wasn't always so proper, and Bess certainly had. Gads, some of the conversations they had shared all those years back were far more scandalous than anything uttered in the meeting room they were currently seated in! (D)
Of Sea And Sword: As hard as it was to refrain in his laughter with the talk from the Duchess, he failed miserably. "Ah... si... the Duchess... she knows me well it seems." Marcos said as his laughter would slow and shift to chuckles now. An innocent look was given to Kaori when he spotted the warning look. That look in response was accompanied by a single word. "Que?!... I said nothing that was..." He cut himself off and chuckled more before looking to Bess, giving to her a secretive wink. Looking back to Kaori then with a slight shrug of his shoulders, smirking and drinking the last of his wine before setting the empty glass aside. Trying his hardest to play the obedient man but in his mind thinking he should pull off one of his drama acts like he had with Kaori and Bess already. Acting hurt and in the process gaining laughter from them both.<d
Set In Her Way: "Aye, well Captain, I have served men drink and I have sailed, so what is there nay to know? A man's eyes are no mystery 'pon myself or watching as he seeks for himself out a wife or a mate of some sort e'en for the shortest of times. So it serves to say tha' the company of men has still nay subsided n' the Duchess is ruined for it. I expect too much of the women around me by way of candor, humor, quickness, wit, n' apology. So fortunate am I to have the known among the unknown for I offend the sensibility o' half the old dowager women on this island." (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Kaori had to laugh, knowing that much to be true. And though Kaori put up a good front, she was really difficult to offend, especially among friends. Shooting a smirk at Marcos she nodded. "Aye, but you wanted to." Sighing at Bess, she shook her head. "And please, Bess. You know I'm far to dull to ever keep up with your sense of humor," she said with a crinkle of her nose. Everyone else was adept at teasing her, she often got in on the action herself. "And you should know, this is all very vexing. Before all of this courtship nonsense Marcos knew my plans were to be a celibate old hag with more cats than I could take care of overrunning my cottage. It was dreadfully unfair of him to ruin all my aspirations." (d)
Of Sea And Sword: "Fortunate they are to have a Duchess with such knowledge..." Which in his mind was true. How often was it that a woman like Bess could be found, and in a position like a Duchess at that. Marcos listened as Kaori spoke on how he had ruined her future plans to become the local cat woman. "Ah... si... el gatos..." He chuckled. "No more gatos for Kaori as I will not allow it..." The Captain teased. A brow arched with a grin as he heard Kaori refer to him by his given name, showing just how comfortable she was with him and with what was going on now. This of course spoke volumes, and he was sure the Duchess would pick up on it as well. The woman had yet not let anything slip past her as far he knew. <d
Set In Her Way: " Och. Ye know Adam did much the same thing for my ambitions. Had a very comfortable, very successful merchant enterprise and thought I to retire in a stately cottage for I'd lived on a boat some two years..so put the cottage on what else but the docks.Raise m'son, look at boat manfiests for years 'pon years until I go blind. But nay, he decides I'd make a better wife n' mother instead, and what do you know? We ended up being a bit more than merchant folks nor did we end up e'e rliving in the house he finished before the war. Men, trouble the lot of them." To talk of the Duke made Beathag's mouth pull so hard in smile the laugh lines appeared at her eyes. Adam. The name that shook down the ways of the old life to open the door to what was before her all of the time. She drank her ale with relish accompanied by the food of his name for her soul. "Kaori ye are a smart, well rounded woman, aptly educated. Why, m'thinks that such minds are necessary! The Scholars are cryin' now tha' Eirian has retired into her home for many months on account of the little bairin she soon will have, and we haven't an adequete scholar in residence for the court, so, tha' leaves much to ponder upon, " she grinned, " Aodhan would recieve a fittin' education at your feet I have no doubt, and ye could be entertained by his mother from time to time. Tis a firm offer, to be considered the Scholar-in-Residence, retain your home, live in it, visit here as time permits, teach my son..help us make sense of the land's history, what say you?" (d)
otaro Kaori: brows began to lift and her smile slowly disappear. She was stunned, no doubt. In truth? She was positively touched. Now she would have more than enough reason to be in this land she loved. She'd have a purpose there, too. Why her favorite task was to work with students and Apprentices within Loreil. It seemed to good to be true. "You'd actually... consider me?" She asked, her eyes wide. A crooked grin managed to find its way to her face before she nodded. "I mean, I'd have to discuss in greater detail what you'd expect of me, but I cannot think of anything I'd like more. I'd be quite honored." In truth, she was still trying to process it. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos could see the happiness in the face of the Duchess when speaking on her husband the Duke. He then listened as Bess pointed out a need for Kaori's knowledge and presence, this of course would have Marcos hope she accepted. Of course he understood if she would need more time to think on things as this meant a great deal of change for her and her children. However, as the conversation continued, his brow arched as it seemed she was more open minded about it than he originally thought. He wanted her to accept for several reasons, but he couldn't lie to himself. Not only would she be doing something she loved, but this would give them more time to see and spend with each other without voyages between lands. Not that such a thing would keep him from seeing her anyway, but to know she was closer to him and he could get to her sooner was a very welcomed thing. The Captain would continue to remain quite, letting the women sort out more details if needed, speaking now only when addressed for the time being.<d
Hotaro Kaori: Okay, it was a warm enough day. Perhaps that could account for the warmth in her cheeks. She wasn't blushing. No. Kaori? Please. She was to meet Marcos at the castle, and there Marcos had been, as planned. Well, so far things were going well enough, what better could she have really asked for? Curtseys seemed so formal and unnecessary, but considering they were at the castle, she would go through the proper motions. It was rare now for her to wear suchformal attire, yet there she was, clad in a blue gown, her hair pulled up into a tight twist. She was glad that he, too, appeared quite dapper. It seemed in no time at all they're arrival was being announced and they were being summoned to a meeting room. Odd it was, that Kaori had so little to say. Her throat was awfully dry, however. That could account for it, by all means. Still, she smiled at Marcos as they started toward the room they were directed to. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos was as usual the cool, calm, collective sort when it came to speaking his mind and the things he wanted along with how he was to go about getting them. He was glad to see her, looking as beautiful as always he thought and he would smile more when she accepted his arm he had offered. The page began to lead them to the room where the Duchess could be found, a few glances to Kaori a at times until they reached the room. Upon entering, Marcos would be the: first to speak. "Buenas tardes Senora Duchess... I hope we are not keeping you from anything." The Spaniard said as he gave a bow and straightened back up. "However, this should only take but a few moments of your time and then we will leave you to your day that I am sure is to be a busy one." Marcos added with a grin.<d
Set In Her Way: A silver comb to wind up the golden hair, to show the face with a warm hearted smile, with a youth defying the thirty-five years that had seen life in this skin. The accents of her dress were silver knotwork in an ocean of sea-greenwhere the color even kissed the leather vambraces on her wrist where linen was puffed around in delicate fashion. A cloud of serenity with a wild-storm brewing in its heart. "Good day, Captain, please, ye are nay disturbing a thing. Lord Aodhan has been so gracious as to share," she chuckled, leaning over to kiss the head of the generous little boy before he was led away by his nurse, "Indeed, tis time for his Lordship to have his oh-so-important nap. Come, ye both,sit, drink. Tell me what brings ye hence today. What e'er it is, do it more often, Kaori is too much o' an apparition,I think I bore her," she teased (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Looking from Marcos to Bess, she couldn't help but positively beam. Bess was a friend of old, after all, and though she was very nervous about what they were there to discuss, it was good to see her, too. Laughing she shook her head, her eyes widening a bit. "Indeed not! That you would even conceive of such a thing," she said, approaching her a few paces and, of course, dropping those curtseys that Bess so loved. She was, after all, always standing upon ceremony. Kaori, being who she was, was rarely one to forego it at any rate. Rarely, at least. She would wait for Bess to be seated before taking one herself, but didn't know what to say that didn't sound absurd. "It's always good to see you. And we come with a request of a very pleasant nature, I think." Her mouth remained opened and it looked as if she had more to say, but couldn't find words. At last she gave up, looking toward Marcos a bit helplessly. What in the world was going on with her? If Kaori hadn't words, the sky had surely gone purple and cows were probably flying from their pastures. (D)
Of Sea And Sword: Low was the rumble in his chest as the chuckle traveled to his throat and then expelled for those gathered to hear. "As you wish Senora...and rest well lil senor."He said as Aodhan was led away. Marcos would let the ladies take their seats first and then his own. Kaori seem to start the explanation for their visit but lost her voice. That had him grinning and he would take over, his eyes settling with those of Bess. "Senora... I will not hesitate in giving your lands." He glanced to Kaori, gave a wink and a smile before looking back to Bess. "So.. I am here to ask permission from the Duchess and the Duke to Court the Lady Kaori Hotaro." <d
Set In Her Way: Laughter begets laughter. The environment was one of ease that she hoped would translate to Kaori, who seemed more suited to flittering about in a plethora of supposed-important tasks then sitting down. Ah, her friend had become a nervouse little butterfly, hadn't she? While the Duchy requested only to be made known of what went on in such ways among people, many observed the old formality of seeking esteemed permission. It had become a rite of passage one might say, a way of assuring a blessing and gracious favoritism to ensure a happy match. Behind the emerald eye lay the mind able to deduce which matches would endure or cripple in their infancy. Prudent eye was applied to a pair
of friends who crossed ties in attempt to cross stars. Wry grin formed on the mouth, "Ah, is tha' so? Tis honorable bent for you, Captain, to observe such a custom n' shows your great care and attention to such a Lady.Were tha' she would be a Lady in the court with us," a subtle way of asking, two birds with one stone, " if I could pin her down to say boo. But upon the first matter, so long as the Lady has given her approval n' ye both seek such o' free will, ye have the blessing o' m'self and of the Duke. Now, shall ye both drink wine to it, tea, or what? I have a full cart here n' have already been saddled with m' customary summer honey ale." (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Kay was sitting there like the cat that ate the canary. Well, Marcos got right to the point, very unusual for Kaori. Why, they were supposed to beat around the bush for at least another few minutes. Ah well, there it all was, on the table, wrapped up with a pretty little bow. Should objections be posed, Kay has her arguments at the ready. Why, she knew it was insane for a man such as Marcos to desire a courtship with her. She was too dull and he was too handsome! However, he refused to see reason and there they were. The offer was noted, but the permission made her eyes close and a relieved sigh escape her lips. "Thank you," she whispered before opening her eyes and smiling at Bess. "I've been actually wanting to get pinned down for some time now. My affairs in Loreil are settled, my responsibilities well underhand and I'm not so overwhelmed any longer. I wish to be more involved with the kingdom now. To be more of a presence." In truth, it had been both loneliness and a desire to avoid more heartache that had kept her locked in her office for hours at a time. No contact, no hurt. Somehow Marcos had gotten through to her. Over the last couple days, she felt in a way reborn. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: "Si, it is so..." He answered as he awaited the approval or the deniying from the Duchess. It mattered not to Marcos if Kaori was a Lady of the Duchess court, as he was a man to see things be done properly. "Gracias Senora Bess...for giving your permission." The Captain paused a moment and glanced to Kaori before letting his dark eyes rest once more on Bess. "She is a very special senorita...and si..I will join you in this drink. As I am never a man to turn down such a thing. Especially wine..." said the man with a grin. As Kaori had found out, Marcos' family in his homeland of Espaina had their own winery and vineyard. He was sure this was something others would find out in time, but for now, all things would remind a mystery save to Kaori. Why? Because she had a way about him, able to open him up like others could not and have him share the more intimate details of his being andhis past.<d
Set In Her Way: "Wonderful. All this cart would 'ave done no good in a room with me. I'm too plain fer wine most days, n' on others would go right for what is ancestral or stronger." Also she abstained from wines, nor was she much for tea unless the reason was medicinal or benefitial, another thing she did not speak much on. Those that tended close knew that the drinks mixed with honey, fermented with certain grains were said to be good for the conception of children and restoritave health of the body. Even the scotch, alas, was not indulged in much. One vice exchange for a lesser. Saying no to the maid's kind offer, she would tend her friends herself as if it were but days of yore, "Here, Captain, a good wine, though ye may better be the judge of such. Kaori, what do ye want darlin'? M'stores seem to be more plentiful than a few years ago." When she moved it was graceful, one could almost forget the constant hitch had in the left hip and leg. A few years, several adventures, several rewards, several prices paid. She smiled to Kaori all the more, "Stop holdin' yer breath. In earnest tis a rare occasion I am made to say nay to a courtship, and in such case tis usually for a more frightin' reason than ye''d think. Come now, I may have a coronent for my head n' a castle to my name, but tha' name is still Bess to a great many. Time has changed the outside, nay the in. " (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Her brows lifted, as she was posed a question. She supposed a drink would be called for in such an occasion. If nothing else, as Bess noted, the girl seriously needed to loosen up. She hadn't a clue under what basis a courtship might be denied, but considering her luck, she'd probably have figured out the way without realizing it. Fortunately, if she had, it had not yet been discovered! "Oh, I'll have some wine, too, please. If I may." She couldn'thelp but laugh at Bess' words, shaking her head. "And I'm not so delusional. I know full well it takes more than a castle to change you." Smiling at Marcos, she said, "I knew Bess when she owned a charming tavern and had little else to concern herself with other than making sure the pottage didn't burn." She gave him a pointed look before chuckling. Were times ever so simple? She doubted it at times, and at other times it seemed only yesterday. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos would again laugh and nodded as he accepted the offered wine from Bess. His eyes would shift between the two women as words were exchanged and teasing it seemed was to be had at the expense of Kaori. Something he was sure was all in good humor and something that wasn't so foreign between old friends, like these he came to just find out. "Oh? so both have known the other for a time then..si?" He asked with a smile and a drink of his wine was had. A brow arched as he eyed the glass and nodded. It was indeed a good wine...spiced with summer flavors and full with texture. Those chocolate orbs moved to Bess and he commented. "Si, this is a good wine Senora...might I ask where you acquired this?" The Captain had to ask as wine was his other passion when not on the waters of the seas.<d
Set In Her Way: "Aye. Tis the same with Jelenah, with Eirian. In truth, Eirian purchase the inn on the permission o' the former tenants, and I had been behind the bar through a set o' owners already. The small lady was kind enough to put m'name right beside her own, thus how I owned the first piece o' anything since I was a girl. Jelenah came perhaps a year or so after tha' time, n' Kaori visited us e'ery day. So tha' was how it was, and the story o' how a barmaid becomes a Duchess," The story was one she never tired of, for though no one knew her true name save one person? The times were good. Had that life ne'er changed she would have ne'er sought to change it, but all things occur for a reason. Fate wanted her to return, to be honest, and to come home. It wanted to give her the clues to unravel her true place in the world and take hold of a birthright. One can only hope such was true of the other women from thetime when life seemed so sure of itself before the fall. "Kaori n' Eirian were favorites of her majesty, n' I was just the snappish Highlander tha' made sure they all ate, and the wine Captain? The wine comes from vineyards in France." (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Oh, yes. Bess, Eirian, Jelenah and Kaori all went way back. And despite the tribulations Kaori had to endure to get to where she was now, she'd not have it any other way. She had not felt this perfectly content in a long time. Her burdens seemed to way so much less. She was just bloody... happy. And it wasn't the put on happy she used to sometimes force, but it was genuine. So long as history stopped repeating itself, perhaps this time it would endure. Remembering she was once a shared favorite of a queen made her blush again. It had been so long ago! "She did make me eat, too. She used to set such good food in front of me I'd stuff myself like a right pig," Kay said, shooting a faux irritated look at the Duchess. She sighed, shaking her had. "Much to Private Gabriel's chagrin, I no longer eat in such a way," she said, shooting a teasing look at Marcos. Marcos had heard of Private Gabriel who had taken a fancy to Kaori since returning to Stargard. Marcos wasn't the jealous type, however (at least not seemingly), and the joke was obvious. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: The Captain relaxed a bit more, sliding further back into his seat while he continued to enjoy the wine and listen to the two women speak of times past. He had no doubt that theirs was a bond that had survived much it seemed. This to him was good, to be able to observe the women whom he had come to admire in many ways and that more things were known to him about Kaori without her having to tell them. He flashed a smile, nodding. "Si... I am thinking this Gabriel needs to open his eyes more often, before he blindly finds himself in much trouble." The Spaniard jested, however there was a bit of hidden truth behind that. Whether that trouble was to be with Marcos or not would remain unknown and the women could take it as they wished. Marcos wasn't the jealous type, but they didn;t mean the man would see to matters himself when it came to the people he cared for. Kaori being at the top of his list now and he had every intention of taking care of all matters when concerning her. "From France... hmm... " He then said as he pondered a moment on the drink then looked back between the ladies before enjoying more of the liquid. <d
Set In Her Way: "M'thinks if Kaori lingered long enough in many a kitchen in Turas Lan, she'd be eatin' with the zeal o' a man tha' hasn't seen a set table in many years. Elise cooks a wonderous spread 'ere, I still cook a lunch or supper often. Miss Alicia Rose at the Briar Rose Inn, ye've ne'er tasted such heaven. N' at the Bannockburn they make a fine stew. So worry nay twixt them n' festivals there will be plenty o' time to remind ye tha' it is alright nay to live like a bird." So many of the women had been so small that Beathag wanted to stuff them up so widths expanded for the good of their health! Willow branches and will-o-the wisps all of them! She was a tree herself, with the proportions of having been over thirty with none of the thin lines of a maid, to which she ne'er recieved a single complaint, though it baffled her why folk sought after a bar maid to fancy when they had a choice of young, viable women flitting about. That question was never really answered until she was courted by and fell in love with Adam, who elected a callused handed, odd made lady of the king's making who favored docks to darning. (d)
Hotaro Kaori: She groaned after taking a sip of the wine, looking toward Marcos apologetically. "It would appear, Captain, that there is a plot to make me very fat underway." She looked down at herself, sighing. "If you lot cost me a courtshipthere will be no mercy. My despair will be felt by all within a mile's radius," she warned Bess before smiling. Well, in truth, Bess had been privy to some of Kay's worst times, and Kay had learned quickly that when she was that miserable, it was best she remove herself from the area so as not to bring down the mood entirely. That was then, however. Hopefully moving forward, there wouldn't be so much reason to shun merriment. She was feeling rather merry herself, of late. Her eyes shot toward Marcos and lingered. After a few moments she realized she was staring and shook her head out a bit, finding something very interesting about her wine glass all of a sudden. (d)
f Sea And Sword: Those chcolate orbs shifted from Bess to Kaori when she spoke of this plot. He laughed and gave a shake of his head and a dismissive wave of his hand. "Do not worry mi Senorita.. I am not going any where should you not keep your current figure or no...as you have now come to know, you will have a hard time ridding yourself of me." He said with a flashy smile and a look that would refer to a previous morning in his quarters. That of course wouldn;t be madeknown to the Duchess, but his look should be enough to remind Kaori herself. Nothing intimate had happened of course, but the small woman was making things hard on him. All he could do was simply grin like a cheshire cat.<d
Set In Her Way: A cheshire cat speaks volume with the width of his mouth and the teeth shining. Beathag could see humor, a wanting. All good signs of a match when coupled with the sense and pragmatism of each. Chortling, the Duchess could not help but to say, "Ah, tis the Captain's way o' sayin' he is a man of many favored tastes. N' like wine, tis as much the shape of the bottle as the sweetness inside tha' captures his attention, so m'thinks ye've paid a great deal o' attention, Captain Marcos, to Lady Kaori's wine bottle." A regal heir collapsed into an old fashioned snort before laughted ensued that came form the core of her gut. "Och, forgive me. Twas too good nay to use." (D)
Hotaro Kaori: Kay winced a bit, her chin dipping downward, but she couldn't help the laughter she had tried to suppress. Bess' pride in herself just made it that much worse, and soon she was shaking and she finally had to laugh out loud. Even still, she managed to shoot a warning look to Marcos. "Don't you dare make any comment on what she just said! I can scarcely believe I'm even dignifying such a thing by acknowledging it." Kay's propriety, however, was obviously put on. Marcos knew she wasn't always so proper, and Bess certainly had. Gads, some of the conversations they had shared all those years back were far more scandalous than anything uttered in the meeting room they were currently seated in! (D)
Of Sea And Sword: As hard as it was to refrain in his laughter with the talk from the Duchess, he failed miserably. "Ah... si... the Duchess... she knows me well it seems." Marcos said as his laughter would slow and shift to chuckles now. An innocent look was given to Kaori when he spotted the warning look. That look in response was accompanied by a single word. "Que?!... I said nothing that was..." He cut himself off and chuckled more before looking to Bess, giving to her a secretive wink. Looking back to Kaori then with a slight shrug of his shoulders, smirking and drinking the last of his wine before setting the empty glass aside. Trying his hardest to play the obedient man but in his mind thinking he should pull off one of his drama acts like he had with Kaori and Bess already. Acting hurt and in the process gaining laughter from them both.<d
Set In Her Way: "Aye, well Captain, I have served men drink and I have sailed, so what is there nay to know? A man's eyes are no mystery 'pon myself or watching as he seeks for himself out a wife or a mate of some sort e'en for the shortest of times. So it serves to say tha' the company of men has still nay subsided n' the Duchess is ruined for it. I expect too much of the women around me by way of candor, humor, quickness, wit, n' apology. So fortunate am I to have the known among the unknown for I offend the sensibility o' half the old dowager women on this island." (d)
Hotaro Kaori: Kaori had to laugh, knowing that much to be true. And though Kaori put up a good front, she was really difficult to offend, especially among friends. Shooting a smirk at Marcos she nodded. "Aye, but you wanted to." Sighing at Bess, she shook her head. "And please, Bess. You know I'm far to dull to ever keep up with your sense of humor," she said with a crinkle of her nose. Everyone else was adept at teasing her, she often got in on the action herself. "And you should know, this is all very vexing. Before all of this courtship nonsense Marcos knew my plans were to be a celibate old hag with more cats than I could take care of overrunning my cottage. It was dreadfully unfair of him to ruin all my aspirations." (d)
Of Sea And Sword: "Fortunate they are to have a Duchess with such knowledge..." Which in his mind was true. How often was it that a woman like Bess could be found, and in a position like a Duchess at that. Marcos listened as Kaori spoke on how he had ruined her future plans to become the local cat woman. "Ah... si... el gatos..." He chuckled. "No more gatos for Kaori as I will not allow it..." The Captain teased. A brow arched with a grin as he heard Kaori refer to him by his given name, showing just how comfortable she was with him and with what was going on now. This of course spoke volumes, and he was sure the Duchess would pick up on it as well. The woman had yet not let anything slip past her as far he knew. <d
Set In Her Way: " Och. Ye know Adam did much the same thing for my ambitions. Had a very comfortable, very successful merchant enterprise and thought I to retire in a stately cottage for I'd lived on a boat some two years..so put the cottage on what else but the docks.Raise m'son, look at boat manfiests for years 'pon years until I go blind. But nay, he decides I'd make a better wife n' mother instead, and what do you know? We ended up being a bit more than merchant folks nor did we end up e'e rliving in the house he finished before the war. Men, trouble the lot of them." To talk of the Duke made Beathag's mouth pull so hard in smile the laugh lines appeared at her eyes. Adam. The name that shook down the ways of the old life to open the door to what was before her all of the time. She drank her ale with relish accompanied by the food of his name for her soul. "Kaori ye are a smart, well rounded woman, aptly educated. Why, m'thinks that such minds are necessary! The Scholars are cryin' now tha' Eirian has retired into her home for many months on account of the little bairin she soon will have, and we haven't an adequete scholar in residence for the court, so, tha' leaves much to ponder upon, " she grinned, " Aodhan would recieve a fittin' education at your feet I have no doubt, and ye could be entertained by his mother from time to time. Tis a firm offer, to be considered the Scholar-in-Residence, retain your home, live in it, visit here as time permits, teach my son..help us make sense of the land's history, what say you?" (d)
otaro Kaori: brows began to lift and her smile slowly disappear. She was stunned, no doubt. In truth? She was positively touched. Now she would have more than enough reason to be in this land she loved. She'd have a purpose there, too. Why her favorite task was to work with students and Apprentices within Loreil. It seemed to good to be true. "You'd actually... consider me?" She asked, her eyes wide. A crooked grin managed to find its way to her face before she nodded. "I mean, I'd have to discuss in greater detail what you'd expect of me, but I cannot think of anything I'd like more. I'd be quite honored." In truth, she was still trying to process it. (d)
Of Sea And Sword: Marcos could see the happiness in the face of the Duchess when speaking on her husband the Duke. He then listened as Bess pointed out a need for Kaori's knowledge and presence, this of course would have Marcos hope she accepted. Of course he understood if she would need more time to think on things as this meant a great deal of change for her and her children. However, as the conversation continued, his brow arched as it seemed she was more open minded about it than he originally thought. He wanted her to accept for several reasons, but he couldn't lie to himself. Not only would she be doing something she loved, but this would give them more time to see and spend with each other without voyages between lands. Not that such a thing would keep him from seeing her anyway, but to know she was closer to him and he could get to her sooner was a very welcomed thing. The Captain would continue to remain quite, letting the women sort out more details if needed, speaking now only when addressed for the time being.<d