[CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

This is where the Kingdom of Fenia's main Inn is.

Moderator: Community Team

User avatar
Cordelia
Posts: 111
Joined: Sat May 23, 2020 12:29 am
Location: Clogwyn Keep, the Highlands of Fenia

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Cordelia »

Point of View: Alice Everhart

Times had been interesting for the Everhart family. The ladies of Hart Helm received the King as their guest for what they assumed to just be an ordinary visit. Little did they realize their life was going to flip upside down. The reality of their missing loved one returning hit in waves, but the more time Alice spent with Elisa, the more the ache in her heart dulled. She believed adamantly from the moment they were told that Elisa was Elisabeth. Her Elisabeth. It was a mother’s instinct to know their child. She saw too much of Zaroffi in the face of the teenager to doubt the information presented.

There were no words to describe the happiness that filled Hart Helm. Alice never believed Elisabeth died, but she also never thought she’d see her sweet baby again. To have her returned, even if it were as a young woman, was a blessing from the Mages. Alice devoted all of her time to Elisa, but tried not to hover or overwhelm the timid girl. It had to be strange for her. There were still unanswered questions, but for now, Alice was content to have both her daughters under the same roof for the first time in fifteen years.

The news of a wedding caught Alice off guard. With the death of Eunice, she expected Dorathea to go wild, not settle down. There had to be more to the story, but Alice was never close enough to Thea to be her confidant. Not like Cordelia was. She tried to be there for the girl, especially now that the cousins were getting close again as adults, but she respected the space Thea always seemed to require.

Of course, however, she would not miss the wedding. So she packed up and headed to stay at the palace with Cordelia, and in the day of the wedding, went to Redcroft with both her daughters. While Cordelia went off to do what she imagined as a difficult job, Alice and Elisa wandered the grounds. Redcroft Manor was a lovely place. It was vastly different to the style she had grown accustomed to on the coast, but it fit right in with central Fenian design. She admired the old trees surrounding the manor, a soft smile on her lips.

For the wedding, the lady dressed in a gown that shimmered between green and blue, the two colours her daughters were wearing. The dress was lined in a band of gold, with gold fabric hanging from the sleeves and center front. It was elegant, fitting her slender body and promoted the red hair that flowed down her back. While her siblings had all been born with dark hair, her inner fire was on display from birth. Her feisty personality had tempered with age, but her quick wit had her to dull.

“I am looking forward to seeing everyone. Hart Helm can be so secluded from the rest of the family.” Not that Alice ever minded the distance. She enjoyed making a life of her own, separate from her parents’ expectations. They had long since passed, but Hart Helm was a part of her identity and she never planned to move back to northern Fenia, where she grew up. “This must be exciting for you, though. An event with both of your families.”

Lady Alice Winterbourne Everhart of the Hartlands
Image
Mother of Cordelia and Elisa | Aunt to the High King
User avatar
Mallory
Posts: 367
Joined: Thu Jun 22, 2017 6:23 pm

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Mallory »

Mallory was excited when she asked about her something new. She giggled a bit and bounced over to the little box, picking it up with glee. "It may be something different than the things you already have, but I wanted you to have it. In the event you're not fond of it I have a backup gift. This day is all about your new start and new family. I want you to feel happy." She skipped over handing her the box, the bold green and blue ribbons that tied it were dangling and the blonde could swear they looked happy too. She stepped back, waiting a moment to let her open it, read the note, and look at it.
Image
User avatar
Thea
Posts: 136
Joined: Sun May 17, 2020 1:25 pm

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Thea »

Cordelia quickly went to work on Thea's appearance. There was not much to be done with her hair as she kept her brown locks at shoulder length. No complicated hairstyles for her, not even on her wedding day. Cora decided to comb her hair out while speaking about the importance of weddings. The start of forever. Nothing could guarantee forever. Not even a marriage. Cordelia had a very idealistic view of the world, but Thea did not dare to argue with her cousin today.

"Why don’t you rinse your face off for me?"

"Alright."

Thea answered as she stood up again and moved over to the empty water basin in the corner of the room. She poured the pitcher of freshwater into the shallow bowl. She then cupped her hands and dipped them into the pool to splash her face. The cool liquid dripped down her chin and onto her neck as the young woman carefully dabbed it away with a clean cotton cloth.

"You have probably spent more time with her than I have."

She sat down in front of Cordelia as she spoke. It was an odd admission, but she was the only one Thea could speak the truth to. No one else could know the true nature of the arrangement.

Makeup came next. Thea tried not to scrunch up her face in displeasure as Cora applied pink blush to her cheekbones and lips.

"She certainly has enough siblings to have gained experience with children."

Thea avoided commenting on her cousin's wish that Thea would get something out of this union. Aside from not being forced into a marriage with someone she disliked, she doubted that she would gain anything.

"I suppose we can do liner too. You have already inflicted the blush on me."
Dorathea "Thea" Sanchari Winterbourne | Lady of Redcroft Manor | The Red Wolf
Image
Cousin of the Winterbournes | Mother of Zevander, Corabel, Elodie, & Lenora | Wife of Aileigh
User avatar
Morjiana
Posts: 1282
Joined: Sun Jul 30, 2017 12:43 pm

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Morjiana »

Morjiana slipped into the room full of Sanchari women quietly, nodding with satisfaction at Aileigh's appearance and the air of merriment. She gave quiet nods to those who noted her presence, unwilling to take attention from the bride.

The announcement of the wedding had come as a surprise. Close as she was with this niece, Morjiana had no hint that this would be the girl's path forward. She'd known of the darkness in the girl's future and had struggled to find a way to either see it more clearly or avoid it, but with no success. If Aileigh believed this was a solution, Morjiana was willing to trust her growing sight.

Of course, that didn't mean that Morjiana trusted this new gaje entering their lives, particularly as she'd never met this creature. Time will tell, she thought, still apprehensive over Aileigh's uncertain future.
Image
~ Morjiana Sanchari of Chere ~ Seer, Busybody, Matriarch ~
User avatar
Zuan
Posts: 1595
Joined: Mon Jan 23, 2012 6:20 pm

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Zuan »

The day was cold but cloudless as a group of riders made their way into view of the manor house. The majority of them wore the same attire, that of silver platemail, with all the riders carrying the same kite shield upon their back, which featured the sigil of the royal house of Winterbourne with a background of black and grey quartered. One of the six armoured knights was also carrying a standard, which fluttered in the morning breeze which like the shields depicted the flag of the Kingdom. It was made from the finest of woven wool, and its edges were embroidered with cloth of gold, matching the crowned wolf emblem upon the flag. Leading the knights however was another figure.

The King rode at the head of the group, and unlike his men was not armoured, because he had no need to be, or least he hoped. The small guard was nothing more than a required precaution requested of him by his council. When in truth, he needed little help in defending himself from bandit or brigand. Yet, if it kept them at ease, he was happy for the small group to accompany him across the countryside to the estate. The estate was located close to the castle, and so the journey was neither long nor difficult, but still he sought to make good time on the event. Not least was it the marriage of his cousin, Thea Winterbourne to his own Step-Daughter Aileigh who was the daughter of Aishe and Akos, but he also had the rather notable task of walking his cousin down the aisle for her ‘special day’.

He was wearing a grand attire for the occasion. His boots were made of a fine black leather but hemmed by a matching black velvet which was embroidered finely with gold thread which was stitched around small obsidian stones. His trousers matched this look and were also dark and designed primarily for comfort rather than appearance, due to the fact his doublet had been modified in length so it would sit at his knees. The doublet was made from velvet in a deep wine shade, accented by gold thread which shadowed the collar, and the lining of the coat. The coat also featured gemstones, this time of a ruby variety which were mainly stationed upon the cuffs, and collar of the doublet. Meanwhile the body featured a fine golden embroidery of the crowned wolf, matching the emblem of his house and that of his Kingdom upon the right-hand side of his chest, and upon his shoulders sat the belt of a black wolf, whose head rested neatly over his shoulders with its fangs resting upon his arm and it’s eye sockets open but again replaced with matching larger ruby gemstones. Upon his belt sat the scabbard of his sword which was in all black, while the hilt of his sword made of fine silver and topped with a wolf-head pommel could also be seen glinting in the early morning light. Finally upon his head sat a circlet of silver, with golden wolves running across the band, only halted by the rubies which were also cast into the silver of the crown.

The group was riding at good speed and soon they made it to the grounds of the estate. The King at this point dismounted his large black warhorse and instructed his men to take his steed to the stables before situating themselves outside the manor house. He felt there was no need for them inside. And equally he did not want more blades or soldiers at this event than was appropriate.

As he entered the estate he looked around with interest. He had gifted the estate to Thea after the birth of her son, who he had taken some time to meet since his birth, however at times his relationship with his cousin could be ‘strained’ at the best of the times. She had never quite forgiven him for listening to her mother and ensuring she obeyed the rules set out for her and faced the consequences whenever her choices were…poor. She still harboured resentment toward him because of this, yet he would not change it. Her choices had got a boy killed and herself a child, and so he would continue to be her surrogate father until such time as she finally behaved like a lady of her station. While some might hope this wedding would assist in doing that, well, he very much doubted it. These thoughts however were carefully locked away behind his stoic expression as he made his way into the entry way and decided to take a few moments before heading up to Thea’s chambers where he would be expected, given he was duty bound to escort her down the aisle.
Image
High King of The Fenians - Brother to Dahlia, Ambra, Trinity, Sera & Zhou
User avatar
Rosalie
Posts: 39
Joined: Sun Nov 19, 2017 6:08 pm

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Rosalie »

In the north of Fenia, many miles away from Redcroft Manor, Rosalie Blackwood was spending her morning at Northborough Manor. Her step-father had left far in advance and her mother had spent the last several days in Fenia City. It was just her at the manor, well besides the servants. She wasn't in a rush as she knew she had plenty of time to spare. If this was any ordinary person, they would never make it to the wedding on time, but Rosalie was far from normal.

The young girl woman took her time getting ready at a leisurely pace. After breakfast, she went for a bath and then changed into something more suitable for a wedding. She wore her hair simply, dark curls spilling over her shoulders. The dress she picked out was a vibrant purple with a deep v-neckline and lace embellishments. It was a more mature look, but that was the goal. Physically, she now appeared to be in her late teens despite only existing on this plane for four years. She didn't want to be seen as a child any longer. She looked herself over in the floor-length mirror in her bedroom.


"That'll do," she said to absolutely no one. Rosalie turned on her heels and disappeared into the shadows.

A moment later she reappeared outside of Redcroft Manor. She had never been here before, of course, but it seemed like a nice place for a wedding. At the door, she was let inside by a servant that appeared to be a bit frazzled. A manor of this size probably didn't often see this much activity. That was just a guess though since she didn't personally know the bride whose house this was.


"Oh. Good afternoon, Your Majesty," Rosalie said as she stopped dead in her tracks. Just inside of the door was the King himself. It shouldn't have been a surprise to see him but she wasn't expecting to nearly run into him when she came inside.
Image
~ Countess of Northborough ~ Daughter of Ella ~ Blackwood Family ~ Banner by Zehara ~
User avatar
Zuan
Posts: 1595
Joined: Mon Jan 23, 2012 6:20 pm

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Zuan »

The King had only been waiting in the hall for a short period of time, examining the various portraits and furnishings of the entrance hall when he heard someone speaking to him. Turning swiftly on the heel of his boot, he quickly noted the individual who was interacting with him and offered her a half smirk before heading in her direction. Rosalie was an interesting character who the King had interacted with on a number of different occasions. Early in her life she had often spent time shadow-porting around the tavern and had even been a flower girl at his own wedding, whereas as she had grown in more recent months, he had seen her both at court and at her mother’s estate when he spent time hunting on their lands with his cousin Tyris. Once he reached her he bowed slightly and offered her another smile and kept his focus on her.

Her appearance often reminded him of her mothers, especially now she was grown up, with the dark hair and the colour changing eyes. He found her an intriguing individual and had gotten to know her well enough during his hunting trips. So while there was an element of formality, he did enjoy seeing her in person at the wedding. Ofcourse, if she was attending, he assumed that her mother and step father had to be attending also.
”Ah Rosalie, though I suppose it’s probably more proper to call you Lady Blackwood these days no?” He said rhetorically, the comment reflecting she was no longer a child. ”Might I say you look radiant on this so special of days, and I am glad to know you and your family will be witness to this marriage.” His expression was calm and stoic as usual in more public and formal circumstances, and he kept his eyes focused on her as a variety of servants continued busily around them. Luckily, given he was not hosting the event, he did not have to concern himself on their jobs and their execution of the event, and so he was content to spend some time speaking with the young lady, given he knew it was not yet time to disturb Thea. Not least because he half expected Cordelia to be dressing their poor cousin up for a little while longer yet. ”I cannot believe it has been so long since you were half your height and throwing flowers at my own wedding. I must repay the favour one day, perhaps by throwing some flowers for you one day?” He chuckled slightly, as he remembered the events of the past.
Image
High King of The Fenians - Brother to Dahlia, Ambra, Trinity, Sera & Zhou
User avatar
Rosalie
Posts: 39
Joined: Sun Nov 19, 2017 6:08 pm

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Rosalie »

"Your Majesty, I believe there is a saying along the lines of 'your house, your rules'. As this is your Kingdom, I believe we play by your rules. Call me a lady if you like, or not," Rosalie answered in a matter-of-fact tone. It did not occur to her that this was, in fact, a rhetorical question that didn't need an answer. Stepping around the King, she moved further into the manor. Purple fabric swished around her ankles as she turned back to face the King.

"I am glad to be here for my mother, she does not get out much anymore." Not since May. She left the words unspoken. The King was not unaware of her mother's recent seclusion or the reason for it. Loss never stopped being difficult.

These days, Ella spent most of her time either at the capital attending to her duties or holed up in Northborough Manor. It was Tyris who encouraged her to attend the wedding. Whether a wedding was a wise choice remained to be seen. Her mother was slowly becoming more herself again, yet the darkness lingered over her. Rosalie was unsure if this was the necessary push forward Ella needed, or if she would retreat into herself further.

The conversation moved onto a less heavy topic, and Rosalie obligingly went along with it. After less than a year of existing on this plane, Rosalie had attended the royal wedding of the King and his two wives. She had somehow talked her way into being a flower girl after charming Queen Akos. It helped that she shared similar shadow powers to the Queen.


"It has not been that long, Your Majesty. What is it, 3 years now?" Rosalie asked. She then cocked her head slightly as she questioned the latter half of his statement, "Do you have great aspirations to become a flower girl? If so, I might suggest looking elsewhere. I don't imagine I will be getting married anytime soon."
Image
~ Countess of Northborough ~ Daughter of Ella ~ Blackwood Family ~ Banner by Zehara ~
User avatar
Zuan
Posts: 1595
Joined: Mon Jan 23, 2012 6:20 pm

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Zuan »

He continued to keep his focus on the young lady as she spoke, no longer focusing on the surroundings as she spoke. It was interesting how analytic and forward her statements were. Most people spoke through emotion or feeling whereas Rosalie seemed to focus more on the facts surrounding the situation than whatever emotion might blur their take on the matter. It made for interesting conversation, often more interesting than the usual polite and tactile conversations found at court atleast. Her first comment amused him greatly as while she did indeed have a point, it was very rare people publicly spoke about the rules their world and the Kingdom was played by. ”As much as that might be a true statement, we must all play by others rules at times – even myself – and there are those rules we must obey above all others, and those which we can slight or forget without attracting too much attention or consequence for that disobedience. I believe in this particular case, while there is no consequence for not calling you Lady Blackwood, it is something the status and situation dictates. Of course if you prefer Rosalie, I am happy to defer to your personal preference and wisdom on the matter.” He said conversationally, though he was entirely intrigued by her examination of the world they were in, and her analysis of those rules they played by.

His expression remained calm as she mentioned her mother. He knew exactly what she was talking about and noted it all the same in his visits and also at court and council meetings. So much like her, he was wary of pressing the matter further, simply keeping his hopes silent that with time Ella might again be more open to the world. ”Aye, I look forward to seeing her, she deserves her happiness for all the joy she brings to others, and I hope today she will have a good time.”

He continued on after her own questions, his expression cracking into a half smirk at her joke. ”Aye, time flies does it not? Especially when you have a habit of aging as you do.” He stated, referring to how she was now close to adulthood, and only a few years back she had been but a young child. ”Alas, my dreams must remain unfulfilled.” He joked. ”I guess I’ll have to think of something else instead no?” He smirked again at her final comment. ”Aye, probably for the best that, last thing anyone should do is rush into marriage, but no doubt you’ll have your suitors, being a daughter of a Countess will no doubt attract a myriad of Lords and their sons to your door.”
Image
High King of The Fenians - Brother to Dahlia, Ambra, Trinity, Sera & Zhou
User avatar
Aileigh
Posts: 172
Joined: Sat Mar 24, 2012 7:46 pm
Location: Toss a coin between behaved and wild.

Re: [CRP] Controlling Fate: Private Wedding of Aileigh and Thea

Post by Aileigh »

Aileigh accepted the box, excitedly glancing at her aunt before undoing the bow. It was with great curiosity she lifted the lid. Her grin softened, picking up the bracelet and setting the box aside. She looked over each charm with care, understanding the meanings before she even read the note. Following the read, she looked back at Mallory with misty eyes. "Thank you, Bibio. It's perfect."

She sat it back in the box, which she left open on the vanity, before standing and giving Mallory a hug. It was as she was pulling away that the door opened. Bright eyes landed on the familiar slender figure. An unspoken look of love was exchanged as the bride approached Morjiana. The two Sanchari women were different in so many ways, but they shared the family gift. In this gift, they had found kindred spirits in each other. Her great aunt was perhaps the only one who truly understood her and what she was - or would someday be - capable of. While Thea had Cordelia to confide in, Aileigh had spoken to Morjiana. The details she provided were few, but there was an understanding and from that, support. The Sanchari matriarch would be the one to perform the ceremony. There was no one else Aileigh would want for the task.

The damphyr gave the older woman a hug in silent greeting. Morjiana was known for being stoic, reserved, even judgmental. She intimidated many, including some of their family. And yet, despite being everything Morjiana was raised against, Aileigh took a special spot in the woman's heart. She was definitely the favourite and Aileigh had remained unmoved by the silent gaze since Morjiana entered their lives. She was the only child of Bahram and Maraah still living and the only one from the previous generation to support Aishe's throne prior to the knockdown of Bahram.

"Alright! Makeup!" She announced, clapping her hands together as she turned around. She retreated to the vanity, followed by her mother. She closed her eyes with full faith in her mother's abilities. Warm blush was applied to her cheeks, with a darker pink on her eyelids. A dotting of white shadow was added to the corners of her eyes, before her eyes were lined with black. A raspberry pink was put onto her lips and viola! The look was complete. It boosted warmer tones in contrast to the cooler tones of the wedding dress.

Following the application of makeup, the bride stood to get dressed. Both Aishe and Mallory assisted her in the task of getting into the laced gown. While Mallory worked on the buttons and lacing on the back, Aishe fixed any displaced hair and helped her put on the bracelet. The rest of her jewelry consisted of large gold and turquoise earrings, dangling nearly to her shoulders. The designer's choice of a high neckline meant she had no necklace. The only other jewelry she had on was a ring on her right middle finger. It was gold of the Sanchari family seal: a unicorn.

"How do I look?" She asked the room sheepishly, lacing her fingers together to keep from fidgeting.

"Beautiful." Blue eyes locked to each other for a long moment. "I am going to find your grandmother. Do you wish us to leave you alone?"

Aileigh considered the offer, looking between the three Sanchari women before giving a small nod. "I could use a moment."

It was not until the door shut that she turned around to look herself over in the full length mirror. Well polished, sunlight bounced off the surface to cast dancing light over her dress. She ran her fingers over her chest, before her hand dropped to her abdomen. The nerves that had been building faded away to steel determination. The fickle confidence that seemed to come and go like the tide had returned.

"I will protect you, always. This is the first step. You will be loved. You will be safe. You will be my everything... Both of you."
Aileigh Mae Maarah Sanchari Winterbourne | Seer of BDR | Viscountess of Ettinford
Image
Wife to Thea | Mother of Zevander, Corabel, Elodie, Lenora, Ezra, & Imogen
Daughter of Aishe & Akos
| Sanchari Family [Profile]
Post Reply