The Viper and Lord

[Ursula Darling]

Ursula: It was a simple note left by Jonathan, 'Come see my show.' A simple request it seemed but she had known Jonathan all her life, and all his life. There was more then the simple words upon the parchment. She had very briefly caught one of his presentations, but that was when she had been trying to hide from him, unsuccessfully and the play had turned out to be about her. The bruises had all ready healed and disappeared from her skin, as well as the memory for she wasted no time in doing as he bid her. Picking out a champagne colored gown with embroidered flowers and leaves along the bodice, her hair pinned up except for one large and long curl which was wrapped just so around her neck and down her left side to brush against her breasts. She dressed, informed Gerda she was going out and to let the Mistress know, and not to worry, she would be home before dark this time(she hoped). The stage had been erected at the edge of town and the benches laid just right to give everyone a view without blocking anyone else. The seats were quickly filling up when she arrived but Jonathan had seemed to have planned ahead as a guard overseeing that things would not get out of hand, ushered her down the singular isle to a place within the front that had a seat waiting. A delicate brow arched in the mans direction but he just shrugged his shoulders before moving back to his standing position beside the stage, not offering one word solid piece of information that was going on. Not that she expected him to know but there was always that nag within the back of her head. Her skirts arranged around her and hands folded just so within her lap. She waited.. and it would not be long. Jonathan appeared, wearing an all black dress suit, had she not known his ways, he would be quite the handsome gentleman and she heard a woman beside her let out a breathing sigh as if she had seen a miracle. The back street girl in her wanted to snort, the lady in her forbid it. As the announcer, he simply shined, explaining what the play was about without giving up the true plot, nor the ending. Sitting there, she could honestly admit in her mind she missed the theater..but this business, was just a different kind of act. [/color]

Jonathan: "Tonights play, is about love, it is about passion but also of forbidden fruit. The Princess...and The General...who is in love with whom, it is love or is it lust, will there be passion and what will become of such feelings. Join us, for this wild passionate ride, Please...do not feel the need to hide your reactions, feel free to cry with us, feel free to laugh with us, but most of all, carry this journay with you. I bid you Ladies...and Gentleman, Adeiu." Jonathan bowed and slipped behind the curtain as the applause went up. [/color]

Ursula: Ursula could only grin, he always did have a flare for the dramatics, then again, so did she. Her clap rang with the others and so the play began. The first act was more or less an explanation of the kingdom, of its people, mainly the Princess and the General for whom the story was told. Of course the princess was in every sense the damsel in distress, the General to was the Knight in shining armor. By the first hour, it was plain to see it was the Princess in love with the General and by the end of the first act, there was the suspension of what would happen, the Princess and the General having a secret interlude without realizing who the other way but the Princess betrothed to a neighboring Prince who had come ahead of schedule to meet his bride, and who was cleverly displayed as Jonathan, no wonder for the suit Ursula mused. [/color]

Jonathan: As the curtain closed to change scenario and such for the second act, Jonathan moved forward to escape being hidden. "Ladies and Gentleman...we have a special treat for you.."His hand went to his chest, a smug grin on his lips. "I have, while in town met with an old and very esteemed friend who, I used to act with on this very stage..and who has...the most divine voice, as if angels themselves reside in her voice, but please, judge for yourself." His hand left his chest to gesture towards Ursula. Her head shook from side to side and she mouthed no but when Jonathan stepped off the stage and reached for her hand. [/color]

Ursula: She rose with grace and pose as her hand slid into his, skirts swayed and dipped as she climbed onto the stage with him amidst the stunned clapping of the audience. A harp and harpist had come to reside on the stage with her and she mouthed 'I'm going to murder you.' To Jonathan as she turned her back to the crowd to move around in a circle of the harpist and turn to the crowd again. As the tune began, she stared above their heads, it was better then imaging them in their underwear. Put on the spot she was not for she easily picked up the tune.

Come, white flowers
Weave us a carpet
Spreading Oak
Make a Shade where we lie
Leaves and Branches
Whisper our love song
When I look
in my true love's eyes
Young as any spring
His eyes almost sing
to me.

Come dance, sparrow
Sing me good morning
Rise up sun
Like the arch of the sky
Living river,
Turn the light to diamonds
When I look
in my true love's eyes

Like a child feels
watching a rainbow
Like a bird feels
The first time it flies
I feel magic
Stirring within me
When I look
in my true love's eyes.

Young as any spring
His eyes all most seem
to sing
to me.

As the song came to a close, her voice holding the last note just so, she dipped into a deep courtesy, all most seeming to kiss the floor as she bowed forward, her arm sweeping inward to her stomach as she dipped and setting at her stomach as she rose up to the applause. The play continued shortly, along another hour to come to an end, a tragedy some mused, for the Princess married the Prince, still loving the General from afar but with a small son who resembled not the Prince, but the secret love. Ursula mused...that was life. People rose and began to leave and still as the actors were cleaning up the stage, she sat, staring at them as if watching some play the others could not see.[/color]

Lord Marke: Lord Donal Marke.. from the south lands of Skye.. on the western Sea side.. was amongst the people that day watching the melodrama.. beside him his younger sisters whom he had brought to Turas Lan for... well.. to show them off like Heifer Cows to other Nobles looking for a fair match of money and breeding for their heirs.. to him it was all boring to say the least.. both the idea of finding a match.. he himself was not amiable enough to find a woman who would put up with his ways long enough to marry.. though his wealth and Properties had swayed a many to try he found them all lacking in some way or another...to tall to thin to round to flat.. to happy to sad.. to beautiful to plain.. there was always something.. lacking.. noble women.. were bred like spaniels to be obedient and shallow.. both things he abhorred in women.. his taste ran more to the... well common side give him a lusty tavern wench to slake his lust on for a night, and he was happy.. well as happy as miserable bastard such as himself could be relatively. He had been just about to excuse himself when the song stress was ushered onto the stage.. her obvious discomfiture mildly amusing so he retook his seat.. for the moment.. hoping something would amuse him.. Moss green eyes watched her as she sang.. watched the crowd.. memorized.. for the moment.. what a clever little minx.. and actress.. well that was something.. he had not tried as of late... interesting...enough.. pretty.. in a doe eyed sort of way.. a wry smile tightened his lips... as he joined the crowd in their clapping.. a droll look given to his younger siblings who were over enthusiastic about the lady's talent.. so she could sing.. he shrugged.. lightly yawning.. as the play begin again... perhaps he would wait.. and see this Songbird up close.[/color]

Ursula: As she rose from her seat after a few minutes, most of the people had left the benches to take in the rest of the town. She turned only to find Jonathan at her backside, turning his head just so to touch the edge of her ear and whisper. A smile curled at her lips as a hand lifted and she whacked him against the nose, not hard but the man stumbled backward, a hand clutching his heart and Ursula just laughed, a sound as sweet and singsong as her singing voice. He seemed to regain his composure then and with a hand against her back, lead her straight towards the Lord. "My Lord you made it, and with your lovely, lovely sisters.."Jonathan drummed in perfect mannerism and scoundrel. Each girl was clasped by their hands, rose from their seats just by the touch of his hands and a kiss placed against a tender each, each got the same and each seemed to swoon as if the only one. Lord was she glad she was never on the receiving end of THAT side of him. Though she would probably prefer it to the darker side. Jonathan turned after addressing each sister to Lord Marke. "May I present my most esteemed friend, Ursula Darling..a name as sweet as the lass"Though he did turn his shoulder away from the ladies and lean towards Marke to whisper though loud enough for Ursula to hear. "A viper with a bite though too..". Ursula chin tipped upward and over, as if a 'I can't believe you just said that' kind of way, but a smile spread across her lips as again, her hand moved across her stomach and a foot beneath the gown slide back as knees curved in the perfect dip. Her head stayed turned to the right and dipped with her movement downward, but through dark lashes set against alabaster skin, chocolate eyes remained daringly upon the Lord. "My Lord....a pleasure."[/color]

Lord Marke: "Enchanted " was his response to her low dip, his eyes steady on the display set for beneath the gap of fabric at her bodice , The sisters almost fell over themselves for Jonathan's attentions, as Marke.. merely smiled a half crooked grin... as Ursula rose.. " You sing well " an attempt at flattery no.. just an observation.. Marke was not one to overindulge one with silvery prose.. it was cut and dried with him.. good or bad black or white.. nothing more nothing less... Jonathan's words however about viper gave a dark brow a chance to raise in appreciation... " My sisters delighted in your play.. We are staying at the Briar rose.. perhaps you would join us for dinner.. maybe a song ?" his words tinged with deep Scottish Brouge.. swept over the lass before him, though he asked Jonathan for the presence assuming that Ursula was part and parcel with him... " Say seven ish.. " his head tilted slightly daring either to turn down the invitation.. it was not wise to buck Lord Marke.. he had a reputation for being a very nasty fellow when displeased.[/color]

Ursula: Jonathan had returned to flattering the sisters. Any more swooning and they would be a puddle on the floor. Ursula gave a brief roll of her eyes but returned her attention back to Lord Marke. She was no fool, this was the man Jonathan wished her to swoon away from his money? Talk about a tough client. But she was also an accomplished young woman...a very good actress. She displayed the emotions she wished others to see, everything else was hidden behind a mask of alabaster skin and chocolate eyes. He was handsome, she would give him that but he had the warmth of a snow pea. "Thank you my Lord, but its not an exceptional talent, anyone can sing." He had given her straight fact and she was giving it right back. "Show me someone with a unique talent no one else possess and then I will be impressed." Jonathan had turned from his flirtations and behind the Lord back, glared hard at her. Ursula simply smiled in return. Smart ass was she? She was playing a good one, at least that much was true. At the invitation to dinner, her eyes swung to Jonathan who had all ready turned his attention back to the sisters once again. "We accept. Seven...ish it is..." Oh that look he gave was one not to be denied and Ursula loved a challenge as a cool collected smile slid over dusty rose colored lips.[/color]

Lorde Marke: " Then I look forward to it.. Come.. Chasity and Faith lets go buy you pretty things to impress your suitors " he practically drawled.. with sarcasm.. the man just did not want to go frill shopping with the two younger girls, but as the head of his clan, as well as his Family.. it was his job to see them married off.. passably well.. to whatever man was willing to put up with their inane prattle.. oh two more weeks of this and he would go starke raving mad..! A stern hand was lifted to his sisters backs prying them away from the actor.. and sending them in the direction of the clothiers... over his shoulder he remarked as he was leaving " Lady Darling.. wear something... daring.. and viperish... that would amuse me " an arch of dark brow left her with the challenge now.. to be met or not was still to be seen. [/color]

Jonathan: Jonathan reluctantly it seemed, let the sisters and their brother go on their way, moving to stand at Ursula backside, a dark brow rose in question towards the Lord at the challenge he offered and when the man was out of earshot, his attention turned to Ursula. [/color]

Ursula: Her hand lifted, pressing against his lips. Not here. Her head shook with the movement and she turned, her arm slipped into the bend of his arm. "Come on, take me home. I need to change as his Lord wishes." Her eyes rolled but she let out a laugh. This one was going to be fun. At least it got her away from the mundane men who visited the Lily, searching for companions, they did not hide their obvious feelings of loneliness, she highly doubted the Lord Marke was lonely but at least he did not look at her like he wanted to put a ring on her finger and ruin her figure with children. Later that evening, a carriage rolled to a stop outside the Briar Rose, Jonathan was the first to hop down from inside and offer his hand inside. A slender naked arm slinked into his, dispite the biting cold weather, the arm that continued to slide from the dark depths of the carriage continued to be bare and a woman gasped and covered her childs eyes as the 'Lady Ursula' Slide down from the inside. The top bodice of her gown was pure black leather, but that was not the shocking part, the shocking part was her breasts very nearly poked out of the top and the bodice did not continue up her arms instead leaving breasts to shoulders and arms completely bare to the world. The skirt a printed pattern of black and gold that connected to the corset like top which only got worse for the back dipped so low, her bottom was nearly visible to the whole world as well. Jonathan whistled and shook his head. Instead of leaving her hair down to cover at least her neck, she had put it completely up, giving away nearly all her secrets in that 'gown'. Curling her arm again into the bend of his, she was lead inside to dine with the dark lord himself, well and his sisters no doubt.[/color]

Lord Marke: Inside the Tavern Marke.. Chasity and Faith sat at a long table before the hearth.. already mulled cider for the younger Marke Sisters and a stout ale for him had been brought.. along with a hot loaf of bread and crocks of butter and honey, the girls chattered aimlessly about Jonathon, and the suitors that had been leaving their letters throughout the day for interviews with their brother.. no matter how boarish he was they seemed to adore him.. at least he was allowing them some say in who they married. Their friends were usually married off to some Old cretin with lots of money.. but thankfully Lord Marke had both Money and Power so with that.. they were shown some latitude in their choices .. but.. not enough to allow someone like Jonathan.. into their midst.. no he was merely a passing fancy.. but a fancy none the less... At the sound of mumers of well less than appericiation.. Markes head lifted to spy upon the Lady Darling and her Actor escort.. a chuckled and a wry smile creased his handsome face.. well well.. viperish indeed.. he stood.. " Lady Darling.... Sir Jonathan.. Please.. join us.. we were just about to order " of course all this was said... as his eyes roamed her flesh.. so artfully displayed.[/color]

Ursula: Her arm left Jonathan's as she approached the tables, displaying a grin towards the two girls and a 'well does this suit' sort of grin in Lord Marke direction. Jonathan of course left her to take a seat between the two sisters. Her own seat was left untouched by Lord Marke but she quickly moved to pull the chair out while his eyes were roving her body, a display of..I don't need you..but that doesn't mean I don't...want you, kind of thing as she lowered within the chair. "Please, call me Ursula.." She spoke as she lowered into the chair. Her head turned to the tender who appeared. "Whiskey sour for him, and a..hmm.."She took a moment to think on what type of drink she wanted. "apple wine...bring the bottle with the glass." With the gown she was attired in, it was no surprise the drinks arrived scant seconds later. Vanilla and Cinnabar waffed up from her flesh as she leaned towards the crock of honey, moving just so that she would just nearly touch the lords arm before retreating back to drop a sgirl-thingyful of honey into the wine and stir. "I've never eaten here before, is it good?"[/color]

[Ursula Darling]

Lord Marke:The dinner the night before had been.. pleasant, instresting and intrigueing.. even if he had found her dress somewhat amusing.. almost.. desperate.. it did show a certain amount of boldness in which he found well.... not boring.. which to say the least was a pleasing thing.. boredom filled much of his days and it was.. refreshing to find somthing.. ahemm someone who did not plauge him with the need to count fly specks on the wall paper.. indeed.. she was a common actress.. courtesan person.. but.. there was something about her that had kept him thinking of her until he slept the night before.. so.. it was with this though that he arrived at the Lily, there would be no flowers or candies.. he was no some sotting boy with a crush..or man hopeing to please her with nonsensical gifts.. indeed he would pay her well for her time.. after all sint' that what she wanted.. she was a business woman.. after all..[/color]

Ursula: Perhaps she had been trying to hard to impress him with the near nonexistant dress but dinner had proved that she could hold her own no? She had fairly ignored Jonathan all night long, he was flirting with the sisters anyways. Something he enjoyed all most as much as acting itself. Proof that she stood on her own toe feet, except for the Lily, she was..a woman who could survive by any means. Only time would tell if her ways had any effect. She had briefly seen Nairne with company in the sitting room and with no want of stealing a potential client from the girl, she retreated to the Library, there was a lovely play she had seen tucked on the shelf. Something about murder and mehem. Not the norm but she liked a challange. Gerda was quick to answer the door and allow the gentleman entry. After finding out just who the gentleman wanted to see, she pointed the way to the Library while leading herself and knocked upon the door before poking her head in. "Lord. eh..Marke to see you Lady Darling." A smile was offered to Gerda as she rose from her seat, her finger jammed into a page of the book...well play as she nodded. "Thank you Gerda..show him in.."[/color]

Lord Marke:Shown to the Library he did not the opulent surroundings, ok so she was an upper class courtesan with connection.. better.. at least she wasn't some tavern wench who laid down with every Tom and Harry richard.. pausing at the door he waited for the housekeeper to remove herself, a stiff formal bow to the elderly lady, as he moved in.. closing the door firmly behind him... " I see you have leisure time on your hands Lady Darling.. reading.. a very rare woman it is these days that can read " a brow perked as he moved toward her picking up the play,, perusing it.. looming over her.. then handing it back.. to her with a smug grin " The heroine dies at the end, all in all amusing but not particurly well thought out.. you should perhaps skip it.. and find something better to do with your time " haugty green eyes roamed her figure.. now better suited to his taste.. he liked some things left to the imgination.. and last night was a sad work out for his imgination.. as her dress had left nothing to ponder upon, other than if.. she were shorne or not. And that he intended not to leave to his imagniation much longer.[/color]

Ursula: "I agree whole heartly my lord..it is a rare woman that CAN read but even more rare to find one that enjoys it."A singsong voice replied as she dipped a short and curt curtesy of hello. The book was handed over without much of a fight but a delicate brow inched upward as he gave away the ending. "Perhaps my Lord you can suggest one that is better, However, given just your pert tolerance for the play in town the other day and not your enjoyment of it, I do not think you a man of the theater. So perhaps not just a suggestion for a better play but of something to do."A challenge? But of course. The book was taken back and she turned to place it against the table by the chair. "I like such endings, a reminder that the damsels in distress...should know how to protect themselves for there will not always be a, lets say a knight in shining armor, to protect her." Chocolate eyes rose to meet his as a hand waved to a chair near her own. "Will you sit down?" Her eyes left his to gesture to the chair before turning to his. "I could have Gerda bring tea...or something else if you prefer and something to eat."[/color]


Lord Marke: " I have no taste for tea and Lunch has past..." a pocket watch was pulled from his jacket flipped open and looked upon then closed with a metallic click " I did not come here for conventional conversation.. tell me your price.. for the evening.. and I will pay it " his words were not that of a hurried enamored lover, but more that of someone purchasing a cow or horse.. how many women had he bought in his life.. countless.. honestly.. one forgets these things..but she had done him a disservice, keeping him up late the night before invading his dreams, and he would do as he had always done, he would purchase the girl-thingy.. sastify himself and in the interim. discover she was no differnt from any other woman who had crossed his path.. a night and surely his mind would see there was no mystery in truth to Lady Darling.. not that his cant could not discover and thrust away any illusion therof.. [/color]

Ursula: Her head dipped with her chin low as if she were succumbing to him, in truth she was hiding the annoyance that he was looking at his watch. As if she were just some spare time in his day to be filled with. A wham bam, thank you ma'am kind of woman she was not...well not in her eyes. Jonathan always said a man touched her and she was wet but the Lord Marke had never touched her..at least not yet anyways and so there was no reason for her to be aroused. Her head lifted as the pocket watch clicked and he sounded as if someone purchasing a sow. Amusement flashed in chocolate eyes but her lips twitched into a tease of a grin as a hand pressed back her skirts and she moved around him only to turn towards the door, no she did not open it but turned to face his backside. "If your verse is as limp as your prick my lord, no price could possibly purchase." Yes she was a courtesan and that was part of the deal, if a deal was struck but she was not to be treated like some common whore. Oh she had seen the look in his eyes before, a man that would not be denied but here she was, denying him.[/color]


Lord Marke: "oh good God woman do you really insiste upon playing these missish games that are beneath you.." he drawled as he turned not even rising to her bait.. " and here I though you more.. than an average female who need be baited to open her legs with prose and posies?" he stalked toward her now.. broad of build and at six foot 3 no small man.. a hand placed on either side of her head.. his face dropping down to stare in those chocolate puddles of beauty she called eyes.. " It is with the utmost flattery to you I find myself.. wanting you... that is no small thing.. when I can have almost any woman I wish... yet I am here.. offering for you " still no prose as she had wished for.. but as he leaned toward her.. she would find there was no lack of stiffness in his prick.. that pressed intimiatly against her hip.. " Now do you play games.. still.. or do you accept my offer for you time ?" he face was close to hers now.. breath fresh with mint and a hint of whiskey.. the last words were whispered against her ear in a soft almost lover like manner.. one wonders if Jonathans predictions were right.. did the lovely Lady Darling hide a wild wet cat beneath her skirts?[/color]

Ursula: "There are no games in my manners My Lord..I simply wish not to be treated like some common prostitue." Her chin lifted as he stalked towards her, she was not a short thing but he at six foot 3, her head had to tilt considerably back to look up at him even as he cupped her face between his hands. "I am deeply flattered my lord that you admit to wanting me, as you say though, you can have any woman you wish.."Inwardly she groaned as he pressed himself intimately against her, ohhhh fuddggeeee. "but you can not expect me to be impressed with admitting that you could have any woman but want me..."She moved back, though her face was trapped between his fingers, she pressed back against the door, watching him still. "I play no games my lord, but since you are so forthcoming, I will accept your offer of my time, if you so wish it."[/color]

Lord Marke: "And I want you tonight... deny me and you shall be good and rid of me.. if that is your wish.. I do not treat you as I would a common whore... I offer you the respect of meeting you on equal terms to discuss a business transaction.. I do no muddle your brain with flattery and nonsense.. and offer to pay you best price.. no qualms.. how on earth is that disrespecting you..?" no he didn't understand he treated her as business like as any other person he traded with.. until now.. his body blocking hers from moving, lips dropping to tease along the long sweet flesh of her neck, on hand dropping from the door behind her to cup the back of her head masterfully.. " Deny me.. Ursula.. and I will trouble you no more " he whispered agaisnt her flesh, watching her groan, he had a feeling of winning course thru him.. yes the Lady ran hot.. another intrigueing point in her favor... " your time will not be wasted Lady Darling " he chuckled against her throat hands falling to her waist lifting her up slightly still pinned against the door.. it seemed as though he was anxious to be started with the evening... now.[/color]

Ursula: "I am not a business transaction my lord but a woman..I do not require flattery and nonsense, that may be a way with some women, but not I...but your honesty, I admire. I am merely offering you my honesty in return. You are not disrespecting me my lord. It was merely an observation." Lids fluttered, as if battling from being closed or open as she groaned again to the teasing lips against her neck. She wasn't going to struggle against him, not even as he lifted her by the waist, still pinned against the door, her legs moved to capture his waist, if only to take some of the pressure off of holding her up, not that she was really heavy. She let out a heavy sigh but it was not of annoyance but more a slight defeat, inhaling a sharp breath, her head turned as she captured his lips with her own in heated passion.[/color]

Lord Marke: Her skirts were shifted back over her thighs so her legs could wind about his waist.. turning then two steps to the reading table that held the play and she was released upon it's surface.. All the while he had delighted in her capitualion, the kiss was symphonic.. like instruments perfectly tuned.. how had he known she would taste like this.. honey and spice..? Thick fingers slid up stockinged calves, over the flesh of thighs util knickers were untied and pushed apart.. a smile then as his lips returned to claim hers a whisper brushed against them " It is going to be a long evening.. Ursula.. my pet "[/color]

Ursula: The house was humming with the girls. Somwhere Jane was playing, she could hear the sounds muffed by the closed door and where-ever the girl was made it more muffled, but she heard it. Acute hearing. Murmurered voices followed, no doubt Nairne and her guest...or perhaps it was some of the other girls talking together. She heard it, but it didn't register. Fingers laced around the back of his neck, she was only midly aware that they were moving and she was set down. It wasn't until her fingers left his neck to push against the table top and found the book did she completely realize they had moved away from the door and she was not sitting on the table. Chin tilted upward, lips opening to the caress of his lips against her own. Her lips curled even as her mouth opened in response to his brushing lips, a smile pulled at her lips as she tugged his jacket from his shoulders. "but not wasted..my lord.."[/color]


[FADE]

Lord Marke: Heavy breathing aside.. he settled her once more on the table.. a grin given to her.. was it the first time she had seen him smile? Pants were jerked on quickly as his shirt was tossed to her.."put that on.. it will cover you to your knees most likey " he chuckled as he hopped back and forth sliding his boots on.. once that was accomplished , her dress and ruined underthings as well as his coat were scooped up in one hand, while she was scooped up and tossed over his shoulder.. hope she had put that shirt on! A look of chagrin at the very messy library, books and papers scattered everywhere and he josltled her playfully on his shoulder " Which way to your room MY Darling" [/color]


Ursula: Heavy breathing indeed. She hardly even had time to think as the shirt was tossed at her. she stared at it dumbly while he tugged on his pants and boots before scooping up the ruined mess of underclothing and her dress. Chocolate eyes rose to meet his.He was smiling...and she couldn't help but smile back . The shirt was clutched tightly in her hand as he hoisted her over his shoulder. The fingers of her free hand slapped against the flesh of his back to steady herself from falling completely over his shoulder head first. "Second floor, last door on the left. but wait wait..let me get this on.."A shrieking laugh as she kicked her feet to the air.[/color]


Lord Marke: "Too Late Darling" he chuckled enjoying the play on words with her last name, as the door of the Library was flung open and Lord Marke walked out with his prize for the night, in all her glory.. legs kicking and flailing about.. "Stop that or they will see your tonsils" he chuckled as he brezzed thru the gathering without shame passing by the blacksmith,Tiberius and the ladies with a nod along with a sardonic grin that was reminiscent of something the devil himself would wear.. at the base of the stairs his hand popped her rump loudly as she wiggled.. before taking the stairs two at a time.. last door on the left...[/color]


Ursula: Eyes widdened to his backside as the door was flung open. "Marke!" She gave a cry as she wiggled against his shoulder, hoping in some way her movements would hide her from the gathering of people outside. As he spoke she realized it would only be more noticeable if she kept moving and so her nude bottom and back were left dangling upon his shoulder as he stomped his way through the sitting room towards the stairs. A hand lifted to those she caught beneath dark lashes, as if saying 'hi, don't mind me...or errr us'. Lord above she was going to get him back for this! Mistress Aramorie was going to murder her. Soon the other disappeared and she let out a grunt as he heaved up the stairs but a yelp followed downstairs as he gave her bottom a round spank. "Marke!" and then the resounded sound of a door closing upstairs.[/color]

[Ursula Darling]

Marke:The Carriage had arrived at the Lily at the appointed time to pick up miss Ursula, she had been hand delivered the Invitation, cum... opportunity to be the Guest of Lord Marke at his new Townhouse Manor in Turas Lan, for an exceptional dinner party of Nobles and the like as his.. escort for the evening, prompted perhaps goaded into accepting the offer as if there were any choice really, the invite had been accompanied by a very expensive and classic gown of burgundy and gold.. lavish enough for a Queen, yet simple enough to let Ursula's beauty shine the gown a mere frame for the masterpiece.. along with it a set of golden jewels set with pearls, necklace, earrings and a headpiece should she prefer, of spider silk gold wire set with pearls... the footman awaited with a matching cloak lined with soft sable fur... Once they Arrived at the Estate she would be escorted inside.. already some guest arrived mingling, whispering behind delicate hands as the courtesan de jour` arrived.. and yet still their Host had yet to show his face... what could be keeping him.?

Ursula: The invitation was received along with the gifts which lead her to assume very rightly so that there was no refusing. Besides, this was going to be interesting to be the Hosts escort. Not that she had a want or need to meet those he called friends but there was a time and place for refusal and this wasn't it. Pressed from a bath, vanilla and cinnabar were applied to her skin before her hair was set and the headpiece placed just so with Gerda help. The old woman seemed in awe of the gifts but Ursula had assured the old woman they would be going back in the morning. While it was simple enough, she was sure she was a peacoke tonight, meant to be shown off and while it did raise her ire just a bit, she was in a sense, flattered. Earrings and necklace in place, she kissed Gerda cheek as the woman whispered good luck and off she took to the waiting carriage. A delicate brow arched at the cloak but none the less, she wouldn't deny it to the biting cold. The carriage rolled and rumbled, what could of been a good wait seemed to take only seconds to her before the carriage was rolling to a step and the door opened with a hand offered up to her. Skirts were shifted as she took the hand and gracefully stepped from the carriage to turning eyes who were arriving. The stares didn't stop as she was lead within the manor. A smile was perfectly painted against her lips as eyes turned her way and her head dipped this way and that at roving eyes. The cloak was shrugged from her shoulders at a butlers instructions to take it, her body moved just so as she dipped her head in thanks. Each movement perfectly rehearsed, perfect manners tonight..of that she had no doubts. Chocolate eyes roamed this way and that to find Marke amongst those lounging. Her lips twitched but the smile remained even as she wondered where he was.

Marke: It was at the top of the stairs.. his voice would boom down, welcoming his guest... " Ahhhhhhhhhhhh I see the last of my guest have arrived.. and right on time... " he smiled down at the dark haired courtesan.. as he moved, fingers lightly adjusting his cuffs, pulling out the delicate lace at the end of burgundy sleeves the matched.. and complimented her own attire... as he took his time coming down the wide stone steps that lead into the massive great room, the rush of warmth from upward flowing air, heated from the grand fireplace so the room was comfortable even for ladies whose shoulders and bosoms were bare this night... His dark head nodded slightly to all in attendance but mossy green eyes landed and stilled.. as if consuming the vision before him, a slight devilish smirk on his lip... " Lady Ursula... you look ravishing as always... " his eyes never left her face, even though he knew well the dress fit her to perfection.. it was those depthless chocolate eyes that he seemed to long for... the perfection of her flawless cheeks... a Hand raised to caress her cheek with the back of his knuckles softly... reverently before he reached for her hand and lifted it to his lips... " I'm honored... " slowly his lips pressed a heated kiss to the back of her hand.. then turned abruptly tucking her hand into the crook of his arm.. " Ladies.. Gentlemen... I believe Dinner is ready... if you will follow.. Lady Ursula and Myself " he guided her... and by the same means them... the dozen or so nobles... into the elegant dining area... amongst the couples were Prudence and Patience his younger siblings, and their suitors and parents.. it seemed a family affair.

Ursula: All bodies and eyes seemed to turn to the Lord at the top of the stairs. Ursula the last to move and even this move was calculated perfectly to tilt her head just so. Her lips twitched, itching to grin wider at the look of him. Matching, really? Chocolate hues seemed to twinkle with unshed laughter. It was endearing. "My Lord.."She purred without pause or thought to how such words sounded coming from her lips. Her head turned to the caress of his knuckles, lips touching the edge of his head before her head turned up again, meeting mossy green eyes and even she nearly forgot the other guests milling in about them. A smile flashed again as her knuckles were kissed, her fingers curling into his hand. "I'm touched, very much so.." Chocolate hues moved down sweeping over his clothing before moving back up to his eye. "Your looking dashing...as ever.."Her steps moved, shifting to stand beside him as her hand was tucked into his arm and he moved towards the Dining Hall. A smile and a hidden wink went towards the sisters who by all account were trying to keep their manners in check but seemed to bounce at the sight of the pair. Ursula lips curled even more, her head gave a shake, just barely noticeable. Even she knew manners in the presence of nobles was needed for tonight, for herself and the sisters.

Marke: It was precedence that when in such company the Ladies seats were pulled out for them.. but no one at the table was seated until the Lord took his seat.. Marke Pulled out the seat directly to his right ushering Ursula into place beside him.. before bending... to whisper in her ear.. " Sit " it was like a caress... warm and commanding.. and honor for her... to be seated by the Lord.. a show of respect.. and great affection... most Lords did not show to their own wives.. across the table, several raised Eyebrows.. and one uttered.. why I've never met his gaze and ears as he slowly took his seat.. then lifted his hand in invitation for the rest to settle.. " Please be seated Good People " he smiled out at them.. never glancing fully her way, but aware, and quite enjoying the show he was performing... as if on cue, servants begin arriving with the first course.. a steamed chowder from the sea.. rich with cream and shellfish... wine flowed quickly as conversation...did... all the while the Lord of the Manor watched with jaundiced eye... bored save for the occasional glances at the woman by his side.

Ursula: A delicate brow rose upward as he pulled the seat at his right out for her. You've got to be kidding me...She seemed to speak without words but eyes were upon her and now was again, not the time for refusal, shifting her skirts about as she moved into position. It could not be helped, she was bound to foul up at some point and a deep moan left her lips as his warm breath caressed at her ear, his voice commanding yet embracing. Gods she was in a nightmare...Slowly she lowered into the seat her back ramrod straight and pristine. Chocolate eyes swept across the room as the mutter seemed to glide to her ear. Chocolate hues darkened but to her credit, she kept her comment clear to herself as her head turned as Marke lowered into his own chair. Her wine glass was plucked up without pause and she spoke behind it, pretending that slow bend of cup to lip. "You're trying to murder me?" She purred in tease before the cup was finally tilted into her lips and the wine pulled from deeply and then again spoke as it was pulled away from her lips"You'd do better in the bedroom by any accounts one way or the other.." Her head turned to meet his gaze and there, she smiled a full on smile that begged so much more unsaid within it.

Marke: At the opposite end of the Table Prue and Pat were idly smiling and being girlishly flirty with their beau's their parents however looked with undisguised disdain toward the Lord and his chosen Lady for the night...

Lady Daughtry:" I cannot believe he expects us to share the same table with her " one of the mothers sniffed, turning her gaze slowly from Ursula to the other harridan who both wanted their sons married to Prue and Pat for their dowries and nothing more, their own finances hurting somewhat with the war blockades , setting terribly against the merchant ships they owned..

Noble Lady:" Quite the show no doubt to put us in our place, he's insufferable " the second whispered back...

One of Lady Daughtry's son:"Mama... please..." one of the milk faced boys begged... " your embarrassing me " he scolded gently for honestly he did have great affection for the beautiful Prue...

Marke:Yes Lady Daughtry... Please do share with us.. your conversation I believe.. you were.... to quiet to be heard at this end of the Table?" Marke lifted his glass a Cheshire grin.. playing over his lips.. like a cat about to attack a mouse..

Ursula: She was not a fan of shellfish nor sea...critters being eaten not that she was a humanitarian for them but that the taste did not agree with her. Idly she played with the soup, taking a few course bites before she settled the plate and bowl away from her to idly sip at her wine. No voice was lifting up in her direction though it did seem like whispers were moving towards the end of the table.

Lord Uriean:"Lady Ursula.."A mousy voice rose from her right.

Ursula:Ursula head turned to grin at the man who seemed to duck down in full rosy embarrassment to have caught her attention.

Lord Uriean:"I was uhh..was uhhh. wondering, if the lord..uhhh...had dancing later, would you honor me with uhh, a dance. that is...if your uhhh so inclined. I hear you uh that you uhhh are an exceptional dancer."

Ursula:Ursula's lips twitched as she held back laughter but trustfully she commended the man for having courage enough to approach her. "I would be delighted Lord Uriean, so long as the Lord Marke does not mind sparing me." The man seemed very pleased by her response and went back to happily eating his soup as Ursula gaze and attention was captured by Marke singling out one of the ladies.

Lady Daughtry:The crone in dark colors that seemed as somber as she was uptight looked up at the Lord as being called to task... her cheeks flushing slightly as her husband cleared his throat and made case to answer for her.

Lord Daughtry:" My wife has a idle tongue Lord Marke and I'm sure not fit converstation for the dinner table forgive her manners.. and continue on... Shall we talk of the War.. perhaps.. Duke Aberdeen's, proposal of a Gaelic Nationalism ?" steering the course in another direction.. perhaps.

Marke:"Oh I do doubt your Lady has an idle tongue though I do wonder she has it at all.. wagging as it does.. Do you Lady Daughtry have something to say we should all hear... about MiLady Darling... I would certainly.. be all ears to hear.. what... compliments you would pay her... for I dare say I have found no other thing to say of her than complimentary endearments and I trust neither would you ?" put to the sword.. he had to wonder if Lady Daughtry would fling herself upon it.. or draw a dagger and wield it in her own cow like manner...

Ursula: Fingers gripped her wine cup, stroking the fine china as she would a lover as her eyes roamed from the Lady Daughtry to her husband and back though she did spare a glance to Marke from the side as he spoke as well, daring the lady to come forward. Lips parted and perhaps all hushed to hear what the courtesan had to say but it was simple in refinement and well mannered and scripted. "Such as a priest who praises himself, is said to be a congrigation of one..so is a person who has idle comments of another. To one person, compliments can slicken the tongue and make the other lack. Still Lord Daughtry, your offer to change subject is well thought...and you will forgive me for saying so, but I doubt the ladies would find such dinner exersions complimentry. You will, forgive me in saying this, but no woman's comments on the subject of war, besides the Duchess of course, is rightly taken to hand. While the proposal of Gaelic unity is of superb thinking. We are..all ready one nation, one country of people. That in itself could be brushed aside. Suffice to say, that if nothing good can be said, conversations would be restricted to only the weather and none of us want heads falling into the soup bowl...but as Lorde Marke is intrigued to hear of it, so shall I..Lady Daughtry, what you would have to say.."Her glass was raised in salute with her words on Gaelic unity and the teasing grin curled her lips at the tease of soup bowls before her attention would turn to the cowfaced woman.

Lady Daughtry:All eyes had turned to Lady Daughtry after the Courtesans elegant words, if there was a war being waged it was less violent perhaps than what coursed beneath the surface here at this dinner table... annoyed, irate and besieged by anger that the thoughts of some common whore would dare speak to her a Lady of Nobility in such a derisive manner was enough to make her loose her composure and her tongue... " Compliments ?" she fairly shook with rage " I would sooner bare my bottom to the street than compliment that strumpet..!" she glanced at her husband shaming him into silence it was easy to see who ruled the roost in the Daughtry household.. and it wasn't Lord Daughtry.. " I see no reason to consider continuing with negotiations on Our Sons Marriage with Patience if this is the company you Keep Lord Marke.." she stood.. as if leaving.. her husband almost knocking over the chair to stand by her.. her son, cowardly and puckishly rose with his parents not even a glance given toward Patience.. as his mother used their engagement as some kind of weapon of society... across the table Prudence.. grasp her sisters hand tightly , and beneath the Table her Beau... Robert Fillingame who dearly loved Prudence, grasp her hand in solidarity... his parents stilling at the turn in conversation.. looking uneasily between Marke and the Daughtry's.

Marke:He chuckled... none plussed... and sipped his wine... " You dare insult my guest in my house and think.. to cow me with pulling your .... halfwit of a sons proposal to my sister... away...?" now he outright laughed... then as suddenly as his mirth had come it vanished as the glass went flying across the room to burst against the wall behind Lady Daughtry's head " You call her a strumpet... and yet you are here parading your son like a prized bull, in hopes of capturing my sisters dowry... to bolster your dwindling holdings... Your son Preys' on my sisters good heart when he is nothing more that your puppet... and you nothing more than his PIMP.. tell me how much money would it take for you to sell him into Marriage.. how much did it take to buy you that fool of a husband .. with his title... for surely it was not for your person Madam for you are the most offensive creature I could have ever met.. " his hands were on the table before him now as he leaned forward viciously and dangerously.... " Get out the Lot of you... Daughtry's... go back to your wreck of lives.. you are not fit for my sister... nor the Company of MiLady Darling "

Ursula: Her lips curled in amusement. Just in amusement. There was no fire in her eyes to the lashing of the womans tongue in her direction. Strumpet...was that the best the woman could come up with? Though her attention did turn to Marke as he laughed at the situation. A delicate brow rose before all hint of amusement left his face and china and words went flying. Her lids slid closed briefly before she was rising from her chair though not staying at his side, she moved to Patience and settled her hands on the girls shoulders, comforting squeeze given though she did not meet Prue's hand in her sisters nor that of Prue's beau in her other. Ursula was not a woman to love but she could look on it with a grin, at least where it was not flaunted in front of her face. Chocolate hues swept from the Daughtry family to Marke and back, when the Lord Daughtry seemed prepared to defend the honor of his wife, Ursula voice finally seemed to find her. "I would advise you, my Lord, to keep your tongue within your mouth, if you've no wish to loose it." The mans mouth quickly closed as the family stormed out and the rest of the guests were left mouthed hung open, seeming ready to catch flies. Her fingers tightened upon Patiences shoulders once more in a moment more of comfort before she released the girls shoulders and moved, as gracefully as she could back to Marke's side. She was at a loss for words, she had seen his temper before, though it was of a passionate nature, she really was flabbergasted in what to make of this. She felt her cheeks flushing and dipped in a quick but graceful curtesy. "Please excuse me a moment.." She needed a moment, only a moment to comprise herself and unwaiting for leave from Marke to go, she swept from the room. Where the hell was a balcony when she needed one for the nights cold air!

Marke:As the Daughtry's left.. Marke remained standing... his gaze now peiercing the other family's... " If any of you have similar feelings get out... if not enjoy your dinner... I've lost my appitite... Patience... come with me... please " he offered his arm, not even turning as Ursula walked out.. he would deal with her in a moment... into the hallway he moved with his younger sister.. her face though flushed with embarrassment was not tearful or saddened... " You know... This is for the best.. he was not worthy of you.. yes?" he dipped his head.. looking into her similar mossy green eyes... while Prue.. was in love with her young beau.. Pat was not.. and it seemed it was an ill match from the start... " I would have you happy... if you must be away from me... and those people are not the family I would see you settled with... " he pressed a kiss to her forehead.. before she hugged him greatly... whispering soflty against his cheek.. then turning to head up to her room... " Goodnight sweet sister " he spoke as she moved up the stairs... Now to deal with Ursula... he grasp his cloak and moved out onto the veranda... to see her standing in the cold night air.. her very breath frozen , suspended before her... the cloak lightly lay on her shoulders... as he moved behind her... " I apologize..."

Ursula: The night air while cold had been welcomed until she began to freeze beneath the gown but even now she would not return and be focus of more wagging tongues. To be called strumpet was amusing but to think, others thought it of her too was infuriating. As the cloak settled against her shoulders, she reached up to pull it tightly about it, not turning to meet his gaze, she simply stared out into the darkness of night. "I see no reason for you to be apologizing Marke, this is your home and you have a right to defend it and your family. Though why you choose to defend me.."she paused and finally turned, pressing against the stone wall in which she stood by. "There will always be people who think ill of me Marke, Are you going to alienate them all and ruin Patience prospects of a good match?" Her hand rose and loosened the headpiece before flinging it down to a stone bench nearby. "Lord Uriean's son, Dustin, he makes eyes at your sister but he is as shy and mousy as his father. I believe he has affection for her, you should consider him.."Switching from her to Patience, yes she was avoiding all subjects with her, unsettled by his display for her honor though she found it very...she honestly couldn't find the words of what she found it but it unsettled her, infuriated her and she didn't really understand why.

Marke: "I will take Uriean's Son into consideration, but it will be my sister's choice in the end... I wish her happiness.. Pat is a .. tender creature, and not as... well worldly as Prue.. I worry over her more " his words may have come to her as a shock, he was truly letting the twins decide for themselves..? " And my apology was more to you... for placing you in the path of such a foul creature as Lady Daughtry... it was not ... unexpected... her... lack of tolerance of you.. but was needed to draw out her true nature so that Patience would see for herself.. what kind of people they were" his fingers reached up to pull thru her dark hair, not for one moment thinking she would be offended that he had used her.. for such.. after all she was getting paid.. well and.. he had bought her jewels and a dress.

Ursula:She was indeed shocked. He had seemed more the type to want a good match for a good ally. Seemed was the like word here and she was pleasantly surprised that it was not as she had originally thought. Though she was more surprised by the fact that he had used her to get to the Daughtry's and to prove a point to Patience. A grin curled at her lips as a delicate brow arched in challenge. "You used me?" Her hand reached up, clasping his wrist and yanking it away from her hair as she took a step back from him. Of course the thought that she in turn should be using him for Jonathan's purpose never once entered her mind, and besides, she had yet to do such a thing and had all ready settled against it and also of telling him what was going on. But that fact he was using her...it made her blood boil. She released his wrist as her hand moved to press against her stomach as she began to laugh, suddenly thinking of what she was doing to him and how that met with her, it was funny as she leaned forward as she laughed. As quickly as it started she stopped and rose to her full height again, her hand rose and struck against his cheek and just in case he didn't feel the initial sting, her hand struck again. "How DARE you...use me like that! Purposely humiliating me!" Her hand stung and she closed it to keep the sting from throbbing through her fingers. Now she was enraged for thinking his sticking up for her had anything to do with respect. "You, who hate masks, used one to humiliate me!"

Marke: Both Slaps were taken as given his face a mask of impassivity, the only show of emotion a slight tick at the corner of his right eye, her palm print emblazoned across the opposite cheek... " Are you quite done...?" his voice was droll.. almost hauntingly calm... " You are being paid well for the night, I did not specify what I wished you for.. although considering our previous business arrangements... I understand where you might have .. been under the impression it was" lightening fast he reached forward and grasp her arms, tightly but not viciously. enough to draw her near him, pulling him against his chest and holding her there " For *BEEP* your delightful mouth or some other such interesting orifice of yours.. and if you are still willing I would gladly accommodate you... but as for you temper ... Dear Ursula, do not forget it is my hand... my body that makes yours beg.. makes you almost... forget you want to be paid..." while his words were harsh.. it was his voice.. that lowered into a seductive playful, foreplay tone, his hands sliding down her back until one grasp her ass thru the expensive fabric " Tell me.. you don't want me as I want you... I dare you to lie "

Ursula: Fists balled as he gripped her and pulled her tightly against him. Her mouth drew back in a defying snarl as she wiggled against him. While his words did intice her, make her flush with want of feeling him against her, made her want of flame induced passion, she snarled in return to his words even as he grasped at her behind and pulled her roughly against him. "You and a thousand other men"she hissed even making a strike out to bite his nose and coming very close to doing so but not as his head moved with a seductive tone against her ear. "I don't want you.." There was a time for defiance and hers had come, she was angry, no she was enraged despite what he could turn upon her if she told him the truth.

Marke: "really?" he purred against her ear.... " A thousand... and yet you are still so tight " he chuckled and released her.. then... stepping back.. " My apology's again Lady Darling.... that the sentiment is not returned... I should not.. force myself... upon you further... " he bowed gently... pride stung.. while she defied, he was a stubborn ass.. used to privilege and not having to chase.. what he desired.. and as much as he desired her... this moment and seemingly every moment of everyday, he would not bend, to beg a woman who vowed she did not desire him back... " Shall I escort you inside... to retrieve your cloak.. so you may return to the Lily... I had arranged for you a room for the night, considering the lateness.. but... if you wish not to share the same roof ... I understand " his tone had lost it's seductive quality and instead.. was aloof and cool... as he opened the door back into the hall for her... stopping long enough to pick up the headpiece.. offering it to her... " You forgot this the jewels and Dress are yours to keep.. as they were made specifically for you.. and no one else... payment for tonight will be sent by courier in the morning to the Lily... "

Ursula: Even as she struggled, his pur against her ear had her relaxing against him if only for a moment, the moment lost as he released her and took a step back. He had dared her to lie and so she did. Not really defying him, more like playing a game that he himself started but she was still enraged that he had used her. Still the memory of what she was doing to him chased away the anger to leave guilt behind. She had promised Alen to tell Marke everything, perhaps get his help in subduing Jonathan and ultimately ending his part in her story all together but she released, that her actions, were perhaps darker then his own and were she not willing to forgive this, he would surely not forgive her what she had been planning on doing. "No not really.." It was a long time in coming, between his question to her answer. She followed after him, taking the head piece from him and rolling it within her hand. Perhaps she could fake it, tell Jonathan she got hold of the money without involving Marke. The head piece slipped from her fingers as she surged forward, clasping his face between her hands as her lips met his, pulling and urging them into her own. Fingers stroked against his cheeks as she pulled him into perhaps the most passionate and real kiss she had ever given. Finally, she broke free and let a warm breath pass from her lips against his own. "Damn it..."She moaned against his lips, this perhaps the hardest thing she had ever done. "I don't want to hurt you...Marke..so just stay away from me ok..just stay away.." She released his face as she swept the skirts back on the gown."Do not worry about sending payment" The words rushed as she took off down the hall before she second guessed herself and wasn't able to leave at all.

[Ursula Darling]

Ursula: How many days since she had told Marke to stay away from her? She honestly couldn't count not because she didn't care to, there was just to much happening to focus on her little tift with the Lord. Shaden's grief renewed by her sisters death, Ursula stepped up to assume some of the tasks Shaden took care of, if only to give the woman time to mourn and time with the son Ealora would never know. She couldn't rightly say she grieved for the woman herself, death was just not something she connected to, at all. Not to mention with the beast of the General in the house..the girls were dressed, pressed like an army out the door, Ursula commenting they needed more exercise, if only to give the small family time alone. Horse back riding down to the lake which was still frozen from winters embrace. What was the next logical step to horseback riding? Ice Skating and there they girls stayed, Gerda of course knowing should any gentleman callers coming to see them, knew they went riding down to the lake and then ice skating. The girls giggling and cooed, shrieked and howled amidst doing twirls upon the frozen water and falling on their asses. Ursula stayed upon the outskirts, skating but not crazy enough to move inward, it was ice but below was water...and she could not swim until finally Heather took it no more and pulled the girl further onto the ice, amidst shrieks and howls from Ursula to stop, she finally gave in as the two of them twirled upon the frozen wonderland.

Marke:He had indeed went calling upon the Courtesan... Ursula, and just rightly so been directed to the place of their current outdoor play.. he sat upon the grey palefrey, attired as if he were the King of England himself.. upon the shore watching the bunch of women acting like young girls, and he was sore pressed not to smile, even if she had declined his invitations four nights in a row.. that was not to be born.. he was not used.. to being denied...not by anyone.

Ursula: "Ursula...is that not your man?" Heather teased with a toss of her head as she released the woman's hands and went skating backward"You have a stalker my dear.." Heather grinned wide like the cat who ate the canary as she went skating off, rounding up the girls to go home as Ursula skated in a turn towards the man upon the horse. Good God, the man just didn't listen! Shakily, she began to skate to the edge of the icy lake. "What are you doing here? Do you not have ears?!" Hands firmly placed on her lips as she scowled in his direction.

Marke: "Apperanlty I have less ears than you manners, did you not receive my invitation, is my coin or my company not worthy of you anymore?" he scowled back, a dark brow rising... as he dismounted to come to stand before her at the edge of the ice... the reins in his hands were fidgeted. with.. " If.. it will reconcile you to my company I will offer you a humble apologue.. it is agreed between my sisters, that I was a pile of offal, to use you so, and that I should apologize and ask your forgiveness if I am to gain you favor once more ".. oh what pride he placed on the line.. to deliver that speech... would she even guess..that never in all his born days had he apologized to a female..

Ursula: "Yes I received them and sent them back. I told you I was bad news Marke, you should listen..you should stay away.."She let out a rough sigh and icy fingers moved to rub against her forehead before pulling her hair back away from her face. "It is not you who is unworthy of me, Marke.." Her head dipped, chocolate eyes falling from mousy greens that seemed to bore into her, to comprise herself a moment before lifting again. "I am unworthy of you, you've no need to apologize..If you knew.."She stopped and skated backward a bit before starting again."You should know..if it will make you see.." Arms were placed firmly behind her backside, as if she were strung up for the gallows she herself was placing herself in. "I had no right to be angry, for your use of me last night, if anything, your anger should be placed on me. Jonathan introduced me to you with the soul purpose of gaining your favor so that I could gain your trust and then your wealth to give to him. It was his intention that I was to carry out..while I have no wish...to do such to you now..there it is, I was resigned once to use you" There it was and she faced the gallows of her making with head held high.

Marke:He listened to her as she confessed, a look of sheer impasitivity on his noble face, nothing just blank, as his eyes seemed to capture hers " Are you quite through throwing your self on the pyre?" he chuckled then moving a few steps toward her, fingers pulling off his gloves as he moved... " You think me so stupid I did not know Jonathan for the con artist he is.. that his.. reconnoiter of me was not for some foul gain.. You underestimate me.. dear Ursula... but... in turn I underestimated you as well.. or have I?" he reached out to her cheek softly... " Or is this caring.. this conscience merely a ploy to make me want and trust you, little viper?"

Ursula: "You continue to surprise me, my lord. I am not sure yet whether it is a good or bad thing.."Though a grin had begun to spread across her lips and she pulled it back as his hand reached for her cheek. "I have never worn masks with you Marke, I would not presume to wear one now.." Her hand rose, icy fingers gripping his wrist. "I don't know why I confess...I'm not in love with you Marke.."The grin curled onto her lips once more"nor are you in love with me...I am a courtesan, love...can never exist between us, at some point you will have to marry, for further power, for wealthy, for an heir...and it will not be me. We both know that."

Marke: As her fingers wrapped about his wrist... he pulled her toward him, his lips dipping down to catch hers even as she uttered protestations against love and such he laughed, stealing her breath away with a kiss... " you are the one speaking of love.. not me... " he whispered against her lips.. pulling her tighter to him.. lifting her from the ground, his hand beneath her backside, hauling her against him... his lips finding her cheekbone, then her ear as he whispered softly " I don't love you ..." but why did it sound like a lie?

Ursula: Damn it, on skates she could not protest to being dragged to him. Her arms wove about his arms to keep herself from tumbling downward as skates wiggling against ice. His lips stealed the words from her lips and she moaned against them, allowing lids to slid closed to revel in feeling his kiss after what seemed like a millinium apart. As he lifted her, legs found their wrap around him, boots kicking together to wiggle the bindings of the metal from them to fall against the snow so when her legs wrapped around him completely, she was not stabbing him. Even as he laughed and whispered against her ear, she could not help but grin. Though it had been no game in trying to keep him away from her, it showed...something that he kept coming back despite her warning. "Shut up and kiss me.." She purred against his ear and though she made the command to him, her lips pulled his into a passion filled embrace.

Marke: Easing down onto the leaf littered bank of the lake, he pulled her atop him, easily kissing her into oblivion.. his hands roaming her body, beneath her skirts, easily unbuttoming her bodice... as he stripped her... in the frosty afternoon air " I want you now.. here... " he gasp, as he rolled her onto her cloak.. pulling up her skirts, his hand running up the length of her thigh... " Tell me.. you want me "

Ursula: Her breathing had all ready become erratic, panting in wanting need and no she did not care in the light of day who saw them as she wiggled as her bodice was opening and turned to be pressed upon her coat as her legs parted eagerly for him. Lips pulled and pressed against his own in passionate need, small nibbles and bites against his lower lip as fires were ignited in both of them. "I want you..I want you.." She purred as his hand caressed at her thigh. Gods above how she wanted him, much more then even she realized.

[Ursula Darling]

Marke: When Marke had left the cottage his mind and his gut were on fire, how stupid of him , how had she managed to weasel her way into his life so thickly, to fall for a pair of eyes that seemed depthless.. and those lips.. he scowled at himself for the wayward though , yes she was a tigress in the sack.. but that could be bought and paid for.. what made Ursula different.. the horse bore the brunt of the inner turmoil of the man who rode it harshly and speedily back to the Manse he had purchased on the edge of town, thru the gates the beast lathered and labored as he reigned it to a halt that had the stallion rearing in protest at the cruel treatment, a stable boy caught the brunt of his temper as he ordered the beast taken away.. the doors boomed open.. and Marke disappeared into the dim halls not to be seen for a couple days... drinking perhaps or brooding who knew what went on in those solitary hours.. but... when several days past, the Master would once again be seen about the manor.. to receive his guest.. opening the house for what seemed like a grand fete.

Ursula: Her wound had only needed a a few stitches, four to be exact, not bad considering what could of happened. Her life had been endangered and really, the woman never really fathomed it. She'd left Alen that night, letting him go his way as she went hers but always with the promise to meet up later. She had a job to do still, Jonathan had been one and now she had another though none knew of it but Alen. Still for days she could not wrap her mind around doing that job. His coat had been washed properly, folded and packaged, laying upon her desk for days as a grim reminder and yet, she did not believe that what he saw, was what it truly looked like. She could tell, perhaps by his face that he didn't understand what was completely going on and she knew she didn't have the heart to tell him the truth, only for Alen's sake more then trust. She knew above anything else she could trust him even if he hadn't listened to her. Doning her riding habit once more and extra padding to help with keeping her stitches from tearing, she rode out to the mansion, gravel crunched beneath the horse's feet as she galloped within and handed the reigns over to the stable boy before taking the steps with the package in hand. With a knock and a short wait, she was lead inside and made to wait in the parlor while her presence was announced.

Marke: The door creaked open suddenly and he was there... leaning indulgently against the frame " Lady Ursula what a Surprise " he drawled.. lighting a cigar as he moved.. into the parlor.. opposite her... " I didn't think to see you... again.. so soon " his eyes cast over her, mentally taking account that she seemed well, and unharmed , mending.. like he cared.. right whatever moving on " What brings you out.. I daresay you must have scads of other...men to take up your time.. like what was his name... the man from the other night.. no don't bother I don't care " surly , pissed, raging.. all these things.. and cold.. sarcastic as well, as his gaze pinned her uncomfortably.

Ursula: Holding the wrapped coat against her stomach, she turned this way and that, taking in the knickknacks within the parlor as she waited. As the door creaked open, she turned, her hair had been curled, pinned up beneath the small ladies top hat upon her head, champagne in color like the habit except for the long curling tendril of ember color which rested against alabaster skin of her chest. "There is no reason for me to stay abed, four stitches is hardly a reason to fret.."She quipped although knowing well he hadn't meant her being in bed meant that he wouldn't see her again so soon. Honestly, she seemed slightly amused that he would think she would keep her distance just because he was pissed. Ha! "You look like hell.." She commented, if only to goad him on to his dry and cold nature. "I brought your coat..I had it cleaned and pressed..."She tossed the parcel onto the table nearest her and clasped her hands before her body. "Well screw you LORD Marke, Alen isn't who you think he is and I rather don't care what you do and do not want to know...I told you to trust me, obviously you didn't if you came back when I asked you not to. Although...I'll thank you very much for your concern when you thought I was hurt, it was very touching."

Marke: "you already Have Lady Darling and if I recall were sufficiently paid. " he picked up the jacketed parcel and moved to the fire place tossing it in.. as if it and the sentiment of her brining it were nothing... " Trust .. was obviously misplaced.. and I don't care about Alen or anyone whom you should choose to.. play with.. that's your job is it not.. I mean what would I a mere client even think about caring what you do " he poked furiously at the burning package.. then tossed down the poker.. " Your thanks is unnessacary as your wound was... after all you and even your wounds are fake.. as colored syrup. " oh he was still in a vicious mood .. it was the timber of his voice perhaps the very sound of angry voices that prompted the next occupant of the room to intrude...

Lorna:" Marke... I heard voices.. has mother and father arrived ?" the pale golden girl stepped thru the threshold looking like royalty incarnate, in her gold and ivory gown, practically angelic, vibrant green hues shifting to the Lord and his guest, as a supple dip of her form greeted them " I'm sorry I though perhaps my parents had arrived for the dinner... early... "

Ursula: "Ah yes, and earned ever coin didn't I" She quipped back again, danger flashing in those chocolate hues as she watched him take the wrapped coat and throw it into the fire. Lips pressed tightly together to bite back a retort of having paid her own money to have it cleaned and pressed to bring it back to him, but oh well it was her loss wasn't it? "I wasn't mortally wounded no, but cut...want to see the stitches or will that get your loins burning."She seemed to egg him on more as a pointed chin dipped down in aggravation. "It wasn't all fake, that was..but even Alen didn't know about it and I told you about Jonathan but it was not my plan to get rid of him, though I did lay the plan that ultimately did get rid of him..You really expected me to bring you in on such a plan? What we did...was murder..I would rather die then have such a thing on your head, Lord or not, you don't need that on your conscious and your belief in God...I don't believe in him, so it works for me, but you..you think hell really exists, and you surely would of ended up there had I included you. I wasn't not willing to put your life at risk. Not with your title, with what your responsible for, for the people you care about and care for, your sisters for example, but my life..I have no one I need to look after, no one who cares enough if I live or die, my life is expandable, I've come to terms with that..but never, have I been fake with you...ever. I am..."She stopped as the woman's voice rose. Chocolate hues turned upon the woman, yes that stare was within her face and eyes, who the hell are you? Chocolate hues slid back to Marke and then back to the woman. "I apologize, I came unannounced, I had not known his Lordship had guests of his own. Forgive the intrusion..I am...Miss Darling..Ursula.."

Marke: There was that moment in her speech that he felt himself yielding, the tightening of his chest giving way to relief when she basically said she cared for him, in not so many words and that what she had been with him was true.. the angry breath he had been holding was expelled , and then caught again as Lorna's voice broke the conversation... "Lady McCula...Mistress Darling.. a business acquaintance... Lady McCula.. my intended " his voice changed not one bit in any type of softness of feeling for the golden beauty... his eyes merely trained on Ursula... " Lorna.. please if you will excuse us we were not finished with our business " he directed her with a gaze back out the doors.. " Close the door behind you "

Lorna: "I ohh.. my manners forgive me.. Mistress Darling... " she dipped once more a vision of youth and complete worship it seemed of Marke.. her eyes devoured him in a innocent way, as he she couldn't' get enough of him, completely smitten it seemed " Of course Lord Marke as you wish " she retreated but not before casting a curious glance at the Lady Darling... what kind of business did a Lady do?

Ursula: She dipped in a regal curtesy, graceful and in one fluid motion, hiding the pain well behind a calm exterior as her stitches briefly pulled before she lifted up. Oh how that mask slipped a bit. Intended? Her face seemed to jerk before she caught herself as a hand strayed to her belly and pushed against the stabbing pain within. "It's a pleasure to meet you.." She offered before Marke was shooing the girl out and the door closed quietly behind the girl and yet, Ursula could not stop staring at the door. Well of course they had said he would have to marry someday and well Lord, above she knew it was not going to be her...but this girl? How could she not know, the girl had looked so...smitten...How long had they been engaged? Pressing her hand into her stomach again, she willed her heart to stop pounding painfully within her chest as she turned her eyes back to Marke. "I'm sorry, I did not realize your intended was here. I should of sent notice first..or just sent the coat on, well..not that either way it would of done any good."Her hand lifted off her stomach to wave at what was left of package and coat within the fire. Rather then be embarrassed by the situation, her face had gone a pale white, in contrast with her alabaster skin all ready, she nearly looked devoid of any color at all except for her hair and eyes. "I'll be going now.." She swept the skirts of the riding habit back, hesitating on the floor as if intent on saying something else before she moved towards the door.

Marke:His hand shot out roughly to grasp her by the arm as she made move to leave " We are not done.. Ursula " he growled as he pulled her bodily against him.... His hands holding her captive by waist and neck.. as his lips descend upon hers... roughly at first and then with a slowing tenderness that would steal her breath away, no matter how she fought against him at first.., the top hat would tumble... the long dark curls rumpled and loosened as his fingers curled into the mass pulling her tighter to him "I've been crazy without you..." the liquor on his breath was evident, but he had not been drinking enough to loose his senses only his tongue.

Ursula:"Marke..."She protested as he caught her up and pulled her against him. "You.." his lips crashed down upon her own, all she could get out was a groan of protest, her hands against his chest as she wiggled left and right within his arms trying to dislodge herself before sinking against him as she sucked in a breath when his lips pulled away from her own. "Mark..."She rolled in a purring sigh as lids slid open once more as she shook her head from side to side "I've...missed you..all right damn it, I have missed you but I can't...do this.."Her hands renewed their shove against his chest. "You're to be married..we talked about this...we knew...now let me go before your intended walks in here again and you...hurt her..she's quite taken with you..you can see it in her face, you know..she doesn't hide it."


Marke: He silenced her protest with more kisses " You cannot tell me you do not want this.. " his hands roamed her back less than tenderly, stoking her fires all the more.. " She's a child, and she will have the name and title in time, but for now.. she is nothing to us... forget her.. should she walk in then she will damn well walk out " he grumbled as his lips seared down her neck finding the sweet spot where flesh curved into soft silky shoulders...

Ursula: Her lips eagerly opened to his kisses. Damn but he knew how to win her body over, but her heart and her mind? They were still in turmoil though she did well to hide just how upsetting the turn of events were for her. She moaned against his lips as his hands roamed her backside. "No, I can't tell you that..."She let out a sigh, as if defeated as he kissed a path down to her shoulder. Heavens above if they existed but he drove her insane! "Marke please!" She moaned though she wasn't begging for release, she was begging for a release from this. She wasn't some cold hearted bytch who would hurt another woman, though she had it in her to will her heart to a close when needed, except for him, she couldn't will him out of it. Her fingers curled into the front of his shirt and shoved hard, pushing him back as she took a step back and turned, raking a hand through her now disheveled hair, thanks to Lord Donal Marke. "and her parents? If they should walk in, you would loose this prospect...I can't do that to you.."

Marke: "There are a thousand prospects but none so delicious as you " he murmured as she pulled away, pissed that she denied him " Dammit Ursula what do you want " he shoved his hands roughly thru his hair... " What did you think you were coming here for... to bring back a jacket.. and then walk out forever.. ?"

Ursula: "A thousand prospects, that's all very grand but you've been born to privaledge Marke and with that comes specific obligations.." Her hand left her hair, running against her lips were she could still feel his against them as her lids slid closed over chocolate eyes. She hummed in a soft laugh at his apparent aggravation, he hated to be denied, she knew that very well but he couldn't win all the time now could he? Her hand left her lips as she turned, finding a lean against a nearby chair as she turned her face to him. "No, that's not what I expected..I don't know..what I expected, not this..not an intended here for dinner with the arrival of her parents at any moment." She couldn't stop moving, her hand lifted, pushing through ember locks with a rough sigh. "I thought that was a long way off.."

Marke: He rolled his eyes with that bored, who gives a chyt manner.. and stalked toward the sideboard to get himself a drink, taking up the bottle he disdained a glass.. and drank from it " Well.. you sound disappointed.. did you want me all to yourself for a while?" annoyed at being denied, and from the tenor of his voice.. well.. still half drunk... " you sound jealous miss cold hearted Darling ".

Ursula:Her jaw locked, damn it! Why did he have to be so...damn vicious at times. Crossing the room, she yanked the bottle from his hands and set it back on the sideboard. "Stop it Marke! Damn it, just stop it!" She turned her body towards his, resisting the urge to smack the hell out of him to one sober him up and two because she was annoyed as all hell with him at this point. "Yes, for once in my life, I was happy...am happy and I had wanted you all for myself because you were...are..apart of that. Do not push me though, you want to see the cold hearted bytch that I can be, I will.."

Marke: He chuckled softly as she as much admitted she was as addicted to him as he was to her " You think it was easy for me to know that you took other men to your bed.. on nights that were not for me.. that you batted those big eyes at every man who looked your way.. to watch that Alen creature laugh and hug you as if you belonged to him... to see the marks on your body... from other men.. God Ursula.. you call me cruel.. " the bottle was retaken and turned up... " Because of some contract to marry that girl in there... that was drawn up when she was still in.. short skirts... I could care less of her.. she's been raised to adore the IDEA of me.. she knows nothing of me... not like you ".

Ursula: She had a way of admitting things subtle, for the right person to catch but the wrong person to pass up. She was as much doing it to save herself as also to convince herself that it wasn't so, not if she didn't say it outright. "I've taken no one else to my bed besides you..not even Alen..and Jonathan..was not willingly." The bottle was yanked out of his hand again but this time instead of putting it back on the sideboard, she moved to the hearth and tossed it in, the glass shattering against the wall behind the flames as the flames surged with life as the alcohol hit it. "Your done drinking.."She stated simply for her actions before she turned towards him again. "Alen cares about me, though not in a way you think either of us care for each other. Now who sounds like the jealous one? You've been born to privilege Marke, with that comes specific obligations, to marry within your class is one. You don't care for her, I get it, you don't have to..she will be your wife, to bear your heirs and keep your home..that's her obligation..but while that's hers, you will make a commitment to your God, your going to vow to be faithful, so don't you understand that while I don't believe in your God, but I won't make you break a promise.."

Marke: "Yes yes all that and a pot to piss in will get you nothing... Men.. of my... stature as you say, keep mistresses, and their wives just deal with it.. So you will be my mistress.. let me deal.. with my eternal soul.. and heaven and hell " yes he had skipped over the jealousy part, of course he was.. though when she had admitted to taking no other men his brow cokeed questioningly.. as if to say.. really? he growled as the bottle was taken and destroyed.. " you know I have a cellar full of those.. you really should learn to hold your temper better " he cautioned... with a wagging finger... as he stumbled back toward the couch and sat , well fell into the cushions... with a ommpphh.... " Your a witch.. and you've cast a spell on me... "he mumbled as he pulled a pillow under his head giving her a come and kiss me look... the man was seductive even drunk.

Ursula: "Oh yes, your mistress, that's so romantic..."She rolled her eyes with a sigh as her arms crossed over her chest once more. "For one, Madame Aramoire would be against me taking a married man as a client, two, Alen would be against it but as much as he is my friend, he is my mentor. I'll not explain it further, your drunk and wouldn't remember anyways.." She watched him stumble into the couch and hummed in a laugh as she moved across the room, shifting her skirts as she slid onto a knee upon the couch, her body shifted to lean slightly over his as her fingers brushed through the mop of curly black hair of his head. "I trust you Marke, but this...one thing while partly my secret, is not all mine, and if you knew..lets just say your life would be endangered and I am not willing to do that. So trust me, my darling Marke..allow me this one thing in protecting your life, it is precious to me.."There, she admitted that much but if he ever expected her to admit more, well lets just say she would have to be severly tortured or his life threatened.

Marke: He grasp her about the waist snuggling her into him, it was not a lustful embrace but one of well... adoring warmth... " Then if you trust me... stay with me... Ursula... don't leave me " he murmured against her ear... sleepily.... it was almost childlike.. what the liquor had loosened his tongue.. the things that spilled out.. unchecked... as he pulled her atop his body... " your mine.... always..." the words were not of ownership.. but something more undefined.. as if he were exerting his claim over her.... as she had over him.... the soft sound of his breathing would register.. as he drifted off to sleep.. for the first time.. since the cottage... of course Ursula would never know... the effect thinking her.. with another had , tortured the Lord Marke so...

Ursula: "When last I look, I did not have Lord Marke branded upon my ass.."She teased against his ear as she willingly allowed herself to be pulled into his embrace. Her arms wrapped about his neck. She inhaled a deep breath of him, cigars and liquor, while the scent might of up heaved any other girl, she rather liked it, though he drank like a fish out of water when irritated. "Always....till the day I die.."She breathed in his ear, knowing well he had fallen into sleep, a drunken stupor perhaps but she did not care. Her head turned, laying upon his shoulder as she stared blankly at the side of his neck, blurred by the closeness of her face.

[Ursula Darling]

Lorna: Lorna had been more then fair in giving Marke and his friend time to wrap up business. It gave her more time to check out the estate, one of many right? It wasn't the properties she was interested in but the man himself. She always knew she would marry well though she hadn't known in childhood that her contract to be the Lords wife was all ready set, well, one could only say she smiled when she found out. She had admired Lord Marke for a long time from afar, now to know the deal was sealed. Well..fate was going to be kind to her right? She would win over her husbands affections, she was assured of that by her mother and reminded of her duties by her father. Her parents arrived and Lord Marke was not there to greet them, she of course apologized for him, letting them know he had business before leading her parents inside but dinner was getting cold upon the table that the family sat in wait for him. "I'll find him Daddy.."The angelic voice purred as she lay her napkin upon the table seeing her fathers irritation as she gracefully rose from the table. They had been in the parlor right? She hadn't heard them leave, or that woman for that matter. The door opened without a knock as she strolled right in. "Marke...Mommy, Daddy and I...have...been...wai...oh my god!" The woman's words bright and bubbly began to fade into disbelief with the sight before her.

Ursula: Ursula had began to doze against his chest, listening to the faint heartbeat beneath his breastbone. The whole household could make a racket and she would not of stirred. It had been days since she had a good nights sleep. Her arms curled about his waist, his chest the pillow as her hair flowed over her face and down her arm. Funny how it looked like a more intimate embrace of lovers then lovers actually sleeping on the couch. Lorna voice at the door had her jerking, her head lifted. chyt! Though she wasn't going to scramble off him like some bad puppy who knew they were punished, oh no she took her time, making sure she didn't fall off the couch nor hit any vital body parts that would have Marke waking and screaming in agony as she lifted off the couch smoothing her skirts downward.

Lorna:Rage filled the petite little angelic woman who turned into a demon the next as a porcelain figurine by a table was lifted and heaved at the woman. "YOU harlot, I want you out of my home!" Little angelic voice had risen to a shrill as the figure went sailing missing Ursula by scant inches to crash and break against the wall.

Marke:What on earth was that noise... it rattled about in his head like some kind of cat being skinned alive, and the warm body that pressed against his so sweetly was suddenly gone... " What the bloody hell ?" he rose.. as the figurine went sailing over Ursula's head, Cradling her protectively then launching a aggravated growl in Lorna's direction " First of all Lady McCulla.. this is MY HOME... you do not nor never will give orders here unless they are confirmed by me " his hands smoothed over Ursula's brow soothingly before he stood... " You will lower your voice and calm down and close that door... now " he leveled that bastardly look on her... placing himself in between Ursula and the object hurling screeching Lorna.

Lorna: "I'm to be your wife and I will have no say in this home?!" Oh she would close the door but it was a slam as she stood with arms crossed over her chest like the spoiled little brat she was. "I have had to keep my virtue for our marriage Donal and now I find your not doing the same! Oh how could you do this to me!" The angelic princess wailed as tears began to course down her cheeks.

Ursula: Oh You have got to be kidding me! Went through Ursula head as she ducked at the flying object. Chocolate hues stared daggers back at the woman, not at all soothed by his touch but hell, even she knew this was his home and she wasn't about to create a scene like the bawling princess. She'd make a good actress, of that Ursula had no doubts, funny how the thought struck her after nearly being knocked out by the woman's throw. Though she was no weak minded ninny would could not protect herself so even Marke putting himself between her and the crazy angel was a bit irritating. "Marke..I should go now.." She offered in a soft voice against his ear.

Marke: "NO Stay.. you are a guest in my house and I have been remiss... " he watched Lorna with a calculating gaze.. as he held his hand out to Ursula... " You and I will discuss this at length when your parents leave, unless you prefer to leave with them.. with a broken contract. otherwise, you will clean up your face paint on a smile and Escort Myself and Lady Darling to Dinner, where you will act as my future wife.. if you cannot do this.. tell me now.. for this.. is your lot in Life Lorna..." his voice was cold and carefully measured.. as he took Ursula's hand.. lifting her from the couch... " your choice... Lady McCulla ".

Lorna: Lorna face twisted in a show of disbelief and...well heartache. Small whining and gurgling noises emitted from her throat as she seemed unable to speak. He was taking the whores side over hers?! She was going to tell her father about this! (unbeknownst to the 'princess', her father himself had a mistress and her mother in the same position, neither would support her tantrum this time). A hand smoothed down her stomach as she dipped in a curesty, her cheeks flushed a dark red. "Yes, my lord.."She murmured as turned and flouranced from the room in a show of flashy skirts and sunshine hair.

Ursula:Honestly she was flabbergasted by what transpired. Did he really expect her to dine with his soon to be in laws and soon to be wife and act like nothing was going on? Her hand tightened in his before slowly releasing his hand. "Marke.."She sighed and shook her head. "Would you treat me such a way if I were to be your wife? Really the woman is going to be mother of your children...and share a bed with you, careful she does not stab you while you sleep when treating her like that!" What, she was not acting the damsel in distress made all bubbly by her rescue? Of course not! She would not be who she was if she had done that.

Marke: He nodded at Lorna as he smoothed down his shirt, fastidiously " If you were to be my wife I would not have to speak to you in such a manner because you would never act like a spoiled child " he cokeed a brow at her and nodded.. backhanded compliment.. absolutely... " It is only a matter of station that prevents me from placing you in that position Lady Darling, and after this .. tirade.. I do think I will think long and hard on what.. weight I give station.. as to right now it seems that it matters not, because the Lady acts as if she had been brought up to brawl and toss objects like a street harlot.." he turned a jaundiced pair of eyes back toward Lorna, " Lady McCulla,, Lady Darling.. please.. I hate a cold dinner... " he moved to the door and held it open for them.. god.. he was good at being an a-hole.

Ursula: Her chin tilted downward a bit, chocolate hues darkened. "Marke"She hissed beneath her breath before letting out a sigh with a shake of her head. She knew she couldn't change him, any more then he could change her. Still she could be irritated over how he acted sometimes. As she took a step behind him to follow Lorna into the Dining Room, her hand rose and she gave him a pop in the back of the head, not hard enough to hurt but hard enough to say 'don't be an ass!'. Lord she couldn't believe she was doing this, having dinner with his soon to be in laws. Something was just very wrong with that picture and it stuck throughout dinner, which she ended up hardly touching. She had never been a drinking woman however, four glasses of wine later, she seemed to be able to relax and lean into the conversation around the table as Lord McCulla droned on about his lands and stock. It would of been an interesting conversation, if she were a tree! But she smiled ever so sweetly at the Lord as he smiled at her. "Very fascinating My Lord McCulla" She purred before lifting her glass and draining the last of the wine from within.

Marke: Marke had seated Lorna to his Left.. and Ursula to his right, the Lord and Lady McCulla at the opposite end faced the trio... neither having the courage to call him to task as the wine flowed and dinner was served.. thankfully Lorna was quiet for most of it, the girl had a most irritating voice when pissed and his aching head was fragile to it's certain decibel range at the moment... " Lord and Lady McCulla.. My apologies for my tardiness.. I had an urgent matter of business that needed satisfying before I joined you for dinner " ohhhh the innuendo was uncanny.. though in part untruthful as no libidinous acts had come about... as of yet tonight... as the Lord droned on about Cattle and such, Marke ate, with gusto.. watching both Ursula and Lorna throughout dinner... When at Last... the meal was finished... he stood... "I must beg your forgiveness Lord and Lady.. McCulla..." then to his intended " My sweet Lorna... but I did... promise I would escort the Lady Darling home.. these times are uncertain..as you know.... please.. enjoy the rest of your evening... " he extended his hand to Ursula.... and bowed to the assembled in lawas and bride to be... " Goodnight"

Ursula: She declined a refill of her glass. she nearly snorted it when he explained to the Lord he had urgent business to satisfy, though of course she knew this was very untrue as nothing had happened, it still didn't stop her from nearly spraying wine from her nose. THAT would of been rather unladylike. Lord McCulla only seemed to give the man a knowing look as Ursula took his hand and rose from her chair. "It was a pleasure to make both of your acquaintances, and yours to Lady Lorna, I do hope to see you again!" Yeah fat chance though! Her arm slide through Marke's. "I rode here, you sure you want to...walk me home?"She hummed in a whisper against his ear as he lead her from the dining hall.

Marke: "I plan on Riding with you to the Lily, and then I plan on having a long discussion with you that last until the dawn... do you decline?" he raised a brow toward her.. in question.. as they departed the dinning hall and toward the stables. He called for both their horses saddled and readied , and waited impatiently... to be alone with her... oh he desired her... but he wanted more than anything to wipe the disgusted look from her eyes... where he was concerned... and replace it with that soft adoring look she gifted him with .. every once in a while.... it was that look he could not breath without... as much as he hated to admit it.. he wanted her approval.. it mattered to him...the though hit him like a blow to the gut... and he paled.. when had he begun to care.

Ursula: "No, I accept.."She offered with a turn of her head and a grin pulled at her lips with the look on his face. She honestly could of said she planned on leaving and not accepting his invitations anymore, it was one thing that he held her entirely, another to be the other woman within his life. But looking at him now she knew she would never be able to live up to that promise she had made to herself. Damn it the man had weaseled into her life, not that she had struggled much and she knew there would be no dislodging him, not if she didn't want to die some horrible death from suffocation. As their horses were brought out, her skirts were shifted, foot placed in the stirup and she hauled herself up to sit straddling it, despite the sidesaddle and the riding up of her skirts. "You'll have to catch me first though.."She quipped with a wide grin of mischief as she gave a kick against the horses flanks and off she went into the night, ember hair flying.

Marke: OF course he followed, accepting the challenge.. they fled headlong into the darkened night, both in need of the release the speed and cool night offered... once out onto the heathered moors the horses really loosed out.. stretching their long legs, hooves eating up the earth as they flew across the meadows where new grass waved in the chilled breeze... suddenly he halted... whistling sharply.. calling her back to him " Ursula...."

Ursula: Even in the spring night the wind was whistling cold against her cheeks. She loved it. A chance to let loose and be free. She could hear Marke just behind her and to the side, her head turned to find him but her flying hair would catch in the way, a hand would have to lift to push it back. It was not until he whistled that she pulled the horse to a slow and turned him about to find him a few yards back. What was wrong? Kicking into the horses flanks, she galloped up close to him before raining the horse in beside his, her facing him of course. "What's wrong?"

Marke: He reached for her... pulling her from her mare and into his lap " What is wrong is that I do not have you in my arms " he chuckled.. dropping a kiss on her lips... as he settled her comfortably against him.... holding her tightly for a moment, as if she were precious.. he murmured against her ear softly " I hate it when you look disappointed in me... I much prefer it when you are yelling and hissing like a viper, than turning those dark eyes on me with disapproval " they rode now slowly.. he was in no rush.. the night was theirs.. for now.

Ursula: A mild shriek left her lips as her hands left the reigns to grip his neck as he pulled her from her horse to his. Her legs shifted to accommodate them, well rather that they lay over his own and locked behind the horse's rump. "I think you get rather turned on by my hissing and yelling. "She teased for a moment before she was shifting on the horse, maneuvering quite well in a show of acrobatics till she was turned upon the horse and leaning back against him. "I was not kidding though Marke, arranged marriage or not, you can not have your wife spoiled on you..do you know nothing of women or should I teach you?" Her head leaned back upon his shoulder as they moved on, a slow canter then anything else, a grin spread across her lips with the tease. "I know nothing of noble marriages, I'll admit that much, but this girl..."she stopped as her head lifted from his shoulder. "I'm not saying we should stop...seeing each other, just perhaps, not at your home."

Marke: "This girl is a spoiled child who stamps her feet and wants her way.. the marriage was arranged long ago before my parents death, and I am trying to honor their wishes but I do not want this... at all.. nor her.. I will be miserable she will be miserable " he rolled his eyes and sighed... " I offered her father a settlement, but he would have none of it.. insisting that we marry... and Lorna seems steadfast with the same want... perhaps if she thinks me so cruel she will take the settlement and go marry for love " he laughed.. knowing the McCulla's were after the title and the stature more than anything... at least the lord and Lady were.. Lorna just suffered under the delusion of.. fairytales and bedtime stories of princesses and happily ever after.

Ursula: "I realize that Marke, but you've specific obligations, as I have elsewhere. We all do things we don't want to do. Even I had to do things I didn't want to do with Jonathan. I have choices now sure. But are you will to risk your clans future on this?" She wiggled within his arms, even with the horse still moving, she jumped off, stumbling upon the ground before catching her footing. She had NO idea where they were but she didn't care. He was scaring her with his words. "What about your families future? Your sisters will be married soon, and you? Your name...who will you pass your fortune to? I saw your face when you stayed in the cottage, you hated it. You couldn't give that up and I...could never be a clansmen's noble wife. I am...a whore Marke..."She had been about to say she was also becoming a spy and stopped herself.

Marke: He stopped the horse and followed her down onto the ground dropping the reigns to ground tie the stallion... "Ursula " he ran his hand thru the dark curls... " I don't have the answers.. but the though of that girl or any other.... in your place....in my bed... I can't abide it " the last four words were soft like a confession.... " you've totally and utterly bewitched me... perhaps unknowingly... but all the same... it's done...."

Ursula: Her skirts were lifted to the knee to trample through the tall long grass, she needed to keep moving else she would go crazy, she knew she would. "Marke, stop it! Stop!"Her skirts were dropped as her hands raked through her hair. Even she couldn't abide the thought of another woman within his bed, but they couldn't do this, she couldn't do this...couldn't admit she cared from him past sly remarks, sly little hints. She whirled as he continued, saying she had bewitched him to find him there standing before her. She nearly jerked back in surprise, having not heard him move in with her. Her hand lifted, striking at his face, once and then twice, as she had done the night he hosted the party. "Stop! Do you hear me?! Stop it!" Did it break her heart to strike him? Yes but it was the only way she knew to push him away, because yes his caring for her, her for him, as deeply as she did, scared the hell out of her.

Marke: Both cheeks struck filled as if fire inched along his skin where she slapped him.. he stilled that deadly.... dangerous coming into his eyes.. as his hand like lightening reached out and grasp her head, his fingers twining into her hair... and pulling her toward him, her body flush against his... his other arm capturing her tiny waist... as a crushing punishing kiss was exacted on her full lips... then as quickly as it had come it was gone.. he was walking away.. leaving her returning to his horse... it it seemed... yet he stood there waiting beside the horses shrouded in moonlight.. until she joined him.. once she had... he would offer her a leg up... but not a word.. as he escorted her to the lily... sullen.. no... angry yes... not at her.. but at himself.. for revealing so much.. and she didn't even care...

Ursula: Her fist clenched at her stomach, stinging from striking him as she turned a defiant chin upward. She had never been one to cry, not unless deeply hurt and she was at this point, fighting the tears back though they swam within her eyes. As he dragged her to him and crushed his lips against hers, she melted against him, as she always did when he kissed her. Her hand balled behind his head, unwilling to give in until finally thrust through dark curls. She did not mean to pour into that kiss everything she felt but she knew once his lips left hers, she had. It left her breathless and shaking. He did not say one word, nor did she as she moved back towards him, taking his assistance to reestablish herself on the horse before they were riding back to the Lily. Albert was quick to come retrieve the horses...or horse. She didn't know if he planned on staying now, she couldn't blame him but she had set out to do what she had to do...She managed a smile for Albert, not climbing down just yet as her head turned to look at Marke, how her body ached to take it all back and tell him the truth. Her mouth opened then closed as she swung her leg over the horse and pushed to the ground before handing the reigns over to Albert. "Thanks AL.." she murmured before turning a look to Marke.

Marke: He slid from the horse as well tossing Albert` the reigns " stable him for the night..." he followed her into the Lily and up to her room, still in silence... to her door.. standing at the threshold... a cold and impassive mask on his face... as she opened it.. once the door swung open he followed her in.. closing it behind them.. then moved to the bed.. stripping off his shirt and boots with an irritated casualness... tossing them to the floor before crawling into the bed, and laying on his side... face turned toward the wall... opposite where she would lay...

Ursula: Really this was no time to laugh, both walking stock silent into the room and him climbing into the bed without a word like some stubborn husband annoyed with his wife. She could not help it, she started to laugh, leaning against the door for a moment while she just burst out in giggles as if this were the funniest scene in the world. With a shake of her head, she pushed off the door, turning the lock into its place before she moved towards the other side of the bed as she stripped the gown, her stockings. Everything came off, she liked sleeping better in the nude, it wasn't to tease him. Sliding the covers back, she slid into the bed, careful of the stitches which rested behind a cloth binding around her body. Ever so slowly, she slid down to lay, moving to wiggle and push until she found her comfortable spot.

Marke:When she settled into the bed, she was met with the cold plane of his back.. minutes ticked by on the mantle clock irritatingly before he turned lightly pulling her back against him, careful of her stitches... his arm circling her middle, face pressed into the darkened curls... inhaling softly... " Goodnight " his voice drifted off into slumber...

Ursula: The minutes ticked by, she stared at the darkened ceiling and then he was pulling her back against him and a grin slid over her lips as her hand curled over his, her fingers lacing with his own as she pressed back against him, turning her head into the way he inhaled her scent, the grin only seemed to grow and she hummed in a soft contentment as her head turned back to the pillow. "Goodnight.."She whispered and when he drifted she let out in a gentler voice, bearably audible"my love.."Pressing her face hard into the pillow, she heaved a sigh and let her eyelids fold closed to meet her own sleep.

[Ursula Darling]

Ursula: Marke would of been surprised to find when he awoke, his bed companion gone and she stayed that way till it was time to assume duties over the Lily with Shaden and Nic's departure. Were the two fighting again? As far as anyone was concerned, yes but what people did not understand was it was not a fight, more an awareness that she had to let go, as much as she promised to be there with him. These emotions she felt was terrifying her beyond any comprehension. She returned from her little hiatus on the morning Shaden and Nic departed the Lily, everyone received an I'm fine, back to work attitude. Leading the others Lily's to believe she had had a lovers tiff with Marke. Again, that was not the case. Shaden had in essence taken care of the morning duties leaving Ursula free time for the afternoon. What was she going to do? She watered the garden for Shaden, it was the least she could do, knowing nothing else about gardening until finally she flopped rather unladylike onto the newly built swing, laying against the long bench as a foot kicked the ground to get the swing moving, back and forth, back and forth.

Marke: You left, without a goodbye.. no note.. nothing.. bad bad girl " his voice was droll as he moved to lean on the oak tree that once fully leaved would shade this part of the garden, his moss fleck eyes intently watching her as she dawdled back and forth on the swing.. " Care to elaborate... or perhaps you in your.. lets push Marke away mood again?"

Ursula: "Considering what happened that night, I thought to give you some space.."Her head turned on the bench to watch him as she swung back and forth, he seemed to move with the tree swinging as she was. "I'll always be the bad girl Marke, the wrong one for you..or do you not understand that yet?" Her foot continued to push against the ground to keep her going. Shifting, her arm moved to the back of her head to pillow it against the harsh wood bench. It needs pillows...she thought, quite obscure to the point when he was asking her to elaborate on why she had left him in bed alone, and for those few days with no word. Thought it would be quite obvious, she mused to herself. "What are you doing here? How did you know I was back?"

Marke: a dark brow lifted at her words... " If I wanted space I would have left your bed not stayed the night, let me decide if I want space.. as for if you are good or bad for me that is yet to be seen" he almost said it was bad for him to be so morose and bullish when she wasn't around, he hated being away from her... or the opposite.. her from him as it were... he wouldn't admit to her he had posted watchers to let him know when she returned.. that would be.. well stalking.. and might.. upset her.. but dammit no word for days what was he supposed to do?

Ursula: "Fine, have it your way, I needed space myself."She retorted dryly as she pulled her leg up from swinging herself, letting the swing take it over till it died. "I call saying you don't want to marry as is your duty, quite bad for you. You would rather spend your days with a whore then your wife to be..."Chocolate hues turned in his direction again as the swing died in its swinging back and forth and she lifted up and off it, smoothing a hand down her skirts before she ran her hands through dark strands to tame the wild mess it had become. She had not only left to give them both some space, Alen had asked a favor of her and while she loathed the favor he asked, she had to tend to pretending to be Vance's wife for the sake of the Clan gathering. Still, she mused in some way that there was going to be no ridding Marke from herself, or her from him. She still found it in her to stick up for him, why not, she knew the emotions she felt, well felt them, didn't understand them but she felt them.

Marke: He glared at her.. " Do you intend to be this missish continually or will it end soon.. What would you have me do.. walk away.. never see you again ?" dark mossy green hues darkened even more as he still leaned stubbornly against the tree with one shoulder, he wanted to take her in his arms and kiss away her complaints, and worries, but as stubborn as she was.. so was he.

Ursula: "It will end as soon as you admit that I am right, or as soon as you promise me you will not ruin your Clan's future because of me." Her head turned to regard him as he leaned still upon the tree. Slowly her body turned to face him. "No..I would not have you walk away, merely give up any fancy you have of our future together, it will always be like this Marke.." She moved towards him, her hands coming up to touch at his chest, fingers curled in to grip at his skin beneath the shirt. Her cheek moved against his own as she whispered in his ear. "You will marry, I will stay here, that's the way of it...We'll meet in dark corners, in hallways, bedrooms, against trees, all to soothe our passions for each other." Her cheek moved in a soft nuzzle against his own as lid slid closed over chocolate hues with the gesture. Her cheek moved away from his, lids slid open as she looked him in the face for a moment before sliding down to her knees before him. "We will always be forbidden fruit...Marke.." She purred up at him as her hands slid down along with her along his legs. "You the Lord, me the whore.."Of course there was always the second side of her life, the spy, but as she promised Alen, Marke would never know of that. To both protect the order itself, and him.

Marke: He pushed her back as she slide down his legs, her words not lost to him.. " So.. you will have me marry.. that.. that girl... and live a lie..." he shook his head to her... fine Ursula you remember you asked for this.. when you find you hate it..'' as she fell back he was atop her, the sounds of her dress ripping from her flesh.. as his lips devoured her own, bruising them in a heated punishing kiss, fingers bruising tender flesh as her breast were mauled within his palm.. for a moment he forgot where they were, the new grass a carp beneath her.. as her skirts were shoved up roughly, his voice in her ear.. "is this all you want of me? is it ?"

Ursula: She wasn't expecting him to push her back, she fell without balance , landing on her hands, her bottom upon the ground as she turned her face up at him but then he was upon her, kissing at her lips with a fire and passion she hadn't really touched of him before, it was harsh and unforgiving, it was both exciting and terrifying. When his lips broke from hers, she sucked in a breath, her hands shoving against his chest even as he ripped at her dress, fondling at her breast roughly, yes it was exciting her but it also hurt. "Marke, you're hurting me!" She hissed as she wiggled beneath him as her dress was shoved up. A moan left her lips but she couldn't help it, the feel of him, him touching her, she was aroused. Not to mention it had been how long since they had 'made love'.

Marke: He stood up.. and glared at her.. " Is this all you want from me ? tell me Ursula is this enough.. your darkened corners and rutting in the yard like an animal?" fingers pulled thru his dark curls as he turned, letting out a growl of frustration with her.

Ursula: As his body removed from hers, she rolled to her side, huffing as she pushed the ripped folds of her dress down her legs, her head leaning against the freshly grown grass. Hell in one hand she could understand his frustration, she felt it to but she had always been sensible. She had been logical, if you could see it and touch it, then it was real. Hence part of her disbelief that there was a God or Godes as people saw them. On the other hand, it reminded her of Jonathan all over again, still Marke had a quality Jonathan did not, he stopped. "It's enough...to have you near.."She muttered darkly as she slide to sit up upon the grass, glaring back in his direction.

Marke: His hands flew into the air.. " It's not enough for me.. to see you here and there.. never spending a night with you..." a booted foot kicked at the sod... " Your a witch.. and you've cast some spell on me.. I cannot get you out of my head..." he turned back to her grasping her by the arms.. and pulling her to him... " And it's not.. the sex..."

Ursula: Chocolate hues watched him throw up hands in frustration and kick at the sod. A delicte brow rose in watching him. They were both to stubborn to deny the other their presence, to stubborn to let go. Fists clenched as he gripped at her, was she frightened? No just pissed he had manhandled her. Though the ire was slowly slipping with his admission. It wasn't anything he hadn't said before, they had never played games with each other but it was becoming clearer the feelings of Lord Donal Marke for the Courtesan Ursula Darling. She melted against him, as she often did when he pulled her close, her head leaning against his shoulder as her ams wrapped around him. "Marke...you stupid fool...you've no idea what you're getting yourself into.."she murmured against his shoulder as she let out a sigh.

Marke: "tell me to leave you and I will walk away " it was a gamble to make her realize they were both fools, both headed down a path that neither knew the ending... but he would go happily with her.. Pride, Power and title be dammed... " Tell me " he questioned as his lips caressed her.. " and mean it".

Ursula: "I can't.."She purred as his lips caressed at her skin. Her head lifted from his shoulder to look him in the face as her arms loosened from around him. "You know I can't tell you to leave and mean you, Why do you think I hit you, why do you think I left you with no word. To get you to leave me because I couldn't say it, couldn't do it on my own.." Alen was going to kill her. He hadn't asked her to give up Marke but she had tried, rather then put him in danger, but he was stubborn, as was she and she damn well knew it. Still, unmoving, he was going to be in danger if any enemy of the order found out about him. She needed time to work out a plan to keep him separate from that. As she had promised, she would not tell him the other part of her life, no matter what they felt for each other.

Marke: "Then stop trying to send me away..." he murmured against her ear softly... as he held her... fingers stroking her arms softly.. " I'm sorry I didn't mean to hurt you..." his words were tender... "I want to buy you a house... near.. mine... I want you gone from this place.. where other men want you... can have you.. I want you near me.. I would have you at my home if you were willing Lorna would just have to abide it..."

Ursula: She hummed in a small laugh. Didn't they just agree neither of them were going anywhere. Her head had found rest against his shoulder again but lifted with his words. "I know you didn't..Important thing is you stopped hmm, it will not bruise, it was not very hurtful so forget it, yes?" Her hands clasped at his arms, Sliding down to catch his wrists and hold them from stroking her, not that she didn't like it. "Marke, I can't do that..please understand, there are things I...can't tell you, not that I do not want to, but I must appear available, for reasons I can not explain. Please understand, the gesture in itself, means more to me then you know. I have never owned my own house and it is very tempting, also I could never live with your soon to be wife, but I will stay there any time you wish it, despite what your bride to be wants."

Marke: He smiled down at her.. softly.. tipping up her chin with his fingers , caressing her cheeks... " Do you know ... how fine you are to me... there was nothing in my world before you.. that I feared loosing.. your like a treasure" he murmured then kissed her lips softly.. " Every night I want you beside me... but I will settle for what.. we have... for now.. "

Ursula: Her lips curled into a grin as he tipped her chin to meet his eyes. At least this wasn't provoking another fight right? Marke was not a stupid man though Ursula had to wonder what he thought of what she had said to him about having to appear available. "As long as you don't try to lock this treasure away from the world, then you may call me whatever you like.."she teased. A soft moan left her lips as he kissed her. Her hand rose to cup his wrist at her chin. "Thank you..Marke.." She meant it, for his understanding, but it also meant she was going to have a talk with Alen over this. It was going to be unavoidable considering she needed to lay some things on the table about Marke, also perhaps get his permission to at least tell him the truth of what she was doing on the side. "Oh, by the way, your soon to be father in law is having an engagement party of sorts for you and Lorna, speaking of her anyway's, he has commissioned for some of the girls and as his wife is ill at this time, has asked I accompany him as his guest, seeing as you must accompany Lorna. Some of my actor friends who are still in town were also commissioned for a theatric of sorts and I've agreed to help them. Just thought you should know."

Marke: If thunder could be contained in a mans eyes there it lay.. he pulled away from her.. " That man is a letch.. he will. try everything possible to .. touch you.. own you... " he walked a few paces from her then turned.. " I cannot abide it.. what I have to watch him paw you... and act as if I do not want to kill him ?" his anger was palpable, but almost cute..

Ursula: As he pulled away, she could only grin, despite his anger. He was rather dashing and cute when anger in jealousy. "This coming from the man whom said he would not be jealous when he first took me to bed.." Arms crossed across her chest as she watched him with a tilt of her head. "Marke do you think so little of me that I can not handle myseld? This is money for the Lily, as I am in charge while Madame Aramoire is away, it is my decision and I have all ready agreed and the contract signed. I can handle Lord McCula."

Marke: He turned to her and frowned.. an almost hangdog look.. " I suppose.. I should not be jealous.. considering I have to marry that... chit" he walked to the tree and banged his head into the bark several times... " I could have lived my whole life miserably content until I met you.. now... I know what could be.. and will never be" with that.. he smiled at her sadly.. " I shall see you at the party then... Lady Darling" he bowed.. and left the garden...

Ursula: She could not help the hum of a laugh that left her lips at the look on his face. Like a lost little puppy begging for a home really. As he moved to the tree to bang his head against it, she swiftly moved forward to grab his shoulder and pull him back"Stop that!" Her hand lifted to touch at his cheek, thumb lifting his face to look at her. It was then guilt hit heavily against her heart. "I am sorry for that then Marke.."Perhaps you should blame your God, she wanted to say it but didn't. "Marke.."She stated just as sadly as his look before he bowed and was moving. "Marke!" She called, moving to the gate to watch his retreat. She leaned heavily against the gate with a sigh. Yes she would see him at the party, she couldn't back out now. She had a duty not only to the order but to Madame Aramoire and her contract.