[ORP]Times in North Fenshire

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Zuan
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[ORP]Times in North Fenshire

Post by Zuan »

The sound of hooves could be heard in the far distance, indeed the sound was so notable it was clear that there was not one horse, but many. Indeed it was a column, two abreast, most of whom were wearing light padded armour and doublets which featured the colours of the Royal House of Winterbourne along with a crowned grey wolf stitched into the chest. The emblem was also upon the shields which were attached to their saddles. Beyond this there were some more heavily armoured knights, and a variety of courtiers, and hang-along’s who were wearing various assortments of fancy garments, albeit fitting to that of riding in the February weather. There were also several carriages in the procession.

In the middle, saddled upon his black warhorse was the King of Fenia. He was wearing an appropriate attire for riding in the winter, unlike some of the courtiers who perhaps had not considered the cold as well as he had. Around his neck was a thick wolf fur cloak which provided protection from the elements, beneath which was his usual riding attire of black boots, breeches and a doublet. The weather was cold, and the courtiers had not considered just how could it would be, due to the fact the King was travelling to North Fenshire. Ofcourse, he was not alone, Ella Blackwood, whom he was courting was riding beside him.

The King held the lands of North Fenshire as Duke of the region and thus every so often he would head north from the capitol to deal with matters relating to the local population and the region. From domestic disputes and minor border troubles, to bandits and matters of law. It was in truth a formality, however it was also a good excuse to escape the capitol for a time and enjoy the quiet of the more rural region of the Kingdom. They would stay at his estates in the region and from there enjoy a variety of events within the Dukedom before returning to the capitol within the fortnight.

The column continued it’s way north, enjoying the sights and scenery of the still wintery north, albeit the weather was starting to recede as spring approached, and with it, these same lands would soon be ready for the bounty of crops and livestock, but till then they were empty and picturesque.

The King turned his gaze toward Ella and offered her a smile, hoping the journey was not too bad for her. After all if he wished it, she could simply shadowport to one location to another, however they both knew he was not a fan of such methods. There was an element of showmanship required of a King and even a Duke, which was lost if you could vanish from one space to another in the blink of an eye. The people needed to see you. They needed to know you were there and could be there for them in their time of need, and so this trip was about ensuring that belief and assisting where the King could in the north.


”I hope the weather is not too harsh on you M’Lady? Rest assured, we will be closing in on the estate and a warm fireplace soon enough.” He said with a soft smile.
Last edited by Zuan on Wed Jun 29, 2022 4:19 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Ella
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Re: [RP]A Trip to North Fenshire

Post by Ella »

Ella had been to Northfenshire many times since moving to Fenia over four years ago. With her own estate and the one she held prior to that being located within the borders of the Dukedom, she had often traveled to the northern countryside of the Kingdom on the weekends. To her northern Fenia, and more specifically Northborough Manor, had served as an escape from the crowded and bustling capital city. Here she could find solace amongst the forest-covered hills and steep mountain slopes.

This trip would be different, however. Instead of retreating to the comfort and familiarity of her own estate, she was traveling to the King's estates. Zuan had asked for her to join her on his official visit to the northern territory as he was the Duke of Northfenshire. When Zuan first suggested the idea to her she wanted to say no. It was not that she did not want to spend time with him, they were after all courting, but this caused a ball of anxiety in her stomach. This was not just them spending time together, this was them spending time together publicly as a couple. Fenians would be watching her with appraising eyes as she stood at their King's side. Judgment was inevitable — good, bad, or indifferent. Try as she might, she would not be able to avoid judgment forever and probably not even in the short term. It was this realization that helped Ella push past the nerves and agree to the trip.

They left from Fenia City one chilly February morning, northward bound on horseback with a few dozen knights and a gaggle of persons who had decided to travel north with the King either because of obligatory duties or for personal leisure. Ella personally disliked having to travel via such arduous means but she was also aware of the need to do so. At least the King needed to do so and as his companion, she too had to follow suit.
"It's not too bad, Your Majesty," Ella answered his inquiry about the weather. This was half a lie. For most people, it would not have been that bad but Ella was prone to having a lower body temperature than your average creature. She often found herself chilled and only really found herself to be comfortable when wrapped up in many layers or when she could relax near or even in a hot fire. "I'm sure I will find great comfort by the fireside when we arrive at your estate," she added as she imagined kicking off her boots and curling up by a roaring blaze. She wrapped her winter cloak tighter as a slight shiver ran over her.
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Re: [RP]A Trip to North Fenshire

Post by Zuan »

He smirked at her comment regarding the cold. “No?” He chuckled “I’d say it is quite bad given your aversion to the cold.” He said knowingly, there was no need to sugar coat it, or even lie, the fact was the weather was not ideal for her, but as he had stated before they left it was necessary. To be seen by the people was an important part of being King for Zuan, and thus it would be expected that she would be seen beside him also. “Aye, it should not be too long now, we have hopefully dealt with the worst of it.” He noted as they continued their ride across the countryside.

The scene was picturesque enough, but the cold was not ideal. Eventually however they made it to the estate. The main building was large in structure and was indeed more estate than castle, being protected by the North Fenian mountains there was never much concern over a potential attack or invasion, and thus the estate had never needed to be designed or equipped for possible siege. The estate’s main building was notable for it’s size with three floors and two wings which jutted out forward from the main section of the building. The wings were ideal for both family, visitors and children, who could all have their own spaces across the estate. While one wing on the top two floors was reserved for the King and his own chambers, study, library and the like.

The King and Ella dismounted their steeds which were swiftly taken into the heated stables to be fed and watered after the long journey. The guards who had escorted them were now taking place on duty around the estate or heading to one of the nearby buildings where a small barracks was located for attending guards. The King made his way up the courtyard garden and the stairs leading to the doors which were opened on his behalf by the guards. Finally the pair were inside and protected from the cold by the warmth of the estate, where many hearths and fireplaces were lit to provide a steady heat for the corridors and halls of the building.

Turning his attention to Ella he offered her a kind smile, and gently brushed some of the snow off of her shoulder.
”Well it appears we have made it in one piece at least.” He said with a light chuckle as he removed his leather gloves and his cloak and handed them off to a attending servant. ”Depending on the weather we will hopefully visit some of the surrounding hamlets in the next couple of days, but we have this afternoon and tomorrow to settle in.” There was indeed no need to rush, given they had two weeks to deal with local matters and what was more with the cold, snow and potential blizzard outside it was neither smart nor necessary to travel when they could simply hold out the weather from the comfort of the estate. ”I hope that is alright with you? It also gives you time to find your bearings around here.” He said with a slight smirk.
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Re: [RP]A Trip to North Fenshire

Post by Ella »

"Aye, that is true," Ella conceded as he noted her past reactions to the cold weather. It was ironic that she should find a partner in a man called Winterbourne given her distaste for winter. Unlike her, he did enjoy the colder weather. She had to admit that the winter scenery was always breathtaking. A thick blanket of pure white powder over the entire landscape made everything seem serene and pure. If only the cold didn't have to accompany the beauty.

They continued along the path for a short while longer until, thankfully, they reached Zuan's Northfenshire estate. The main building was imposing in appearance. It dominated the scene with only the surrounding mountains superseding its size. She could see the main building had several wings in addition to having many smaller surrounding buildings. The style of architecture was quite different than the main palace in Fenia City causing Ella to wonder if this style of architecture was more suiting Zuan's personal preference. If she had to guess she would say these buildings were more recently built than the Imperian Palace.

She dismounted her horse quickly, glad to be on her feet once again. Horses were fine but she was much more accustomed to other forms of travel. She handed off the reins to a waiting stable hand before turning her attention to the King. He led the way to the main building with Ella following just a half a step behind him. Once inside she looked around in awe at the entry hall. There were many paintings decorating the walls along with various relics. This was really nothing like the Imperian Palace; there the main entry hall had a more minimalistic but polished look. This felt somehow homier in spite of it being an equally large estate.

Her eyes moved away from analyzing the various paintings and back to the King as he turned and addressed her. She followed his leading, removing her cloak and her gloves and handing them off to another servant who stood in wait. She was glad to be inside and protected from the cold winter weather. Despite the size of the building, it was surprisingly not drafty at all for which Ella was grateful. "That sounds like a good plan," she nodded her head before adding with a smile, "Do you want to give me a tour then?"
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Re: [ORP]Times in North Fenshire

Post by Zuan »

June 1662

The summer months had finally arrived, even in the north territory of North Fenshire which the King considered much of his own domain. The perfect escape from the business of court and of the kingdom, his own personal get-away from the bustle of cities and towns, and where he made his home when not ruling the Kingdom from it’s centre of power in Fenia City.

There was also the fact that he did not spend as much time as he wanted too in the northern lands, however he supposed that was his own fault for remaining King for as long as he had, but he had embraced the role, and could not see himself parting from it, until age and time took him from this realm. With that fact knotted into his soul, he made sure to enjoy the quiet and the brief period of times he got to spend in the north, and these days he did not spend that time alone.

The King spent much of his leisure time in the company of Ella Blackwood, and his current stay at his estate was no different. The duo had spent the night at the estate and in the early morning had risen for a ride into the nearby forest to a lake which was somewhat of a natural wonder in the region, as the water remained heated all year long. Some said a magician of old had enchanted the water to provide heat in the freezing months of old, while others claimed a dragon had died in the centre of the lake, and the heat of his fire had forever granted the lake the bubbling warmth that could be seen upon the surface. It was an ideal choice for Ella, a fire witch, and thus the King was keen to share it with her.

Zuan was already outside, preparing both of their horses for the ride, his own was a large black haired war horse, who was his personal favourite, having had the mount for his entire kingship, and the beast was known for its height and strength and had been his companion of choice in many wars, battles and raids. However he was also favoured for relaxing rides such as today as well. Zuan was wearing light cottons and silks, designed to allow the air to reach his skin in the morning heat. The colour palate was bright, but neutral. Primarily whites and ivories, which was only contrasted by a pair of brown riding boots. After all, who would wear white riding boots? They’d simply be ruined.

He was whistling a quiet tune to himself, as he finished saddling up Ella’s horse, before turning his gaze back to the castle, wondering where his partner and companion had gone off too. She had spent far too much time at the estate to get lost, but equally she could have been seeing to a many number of things, and there was no rush. So as he waited he took a brush and began to put it through the mane of his horse, continuing his tune as he did so. In this small moment, he was entirely at peace with the world, away from the chaos of the capitol, and enjoying the quiet of his retreat with his love.
Last edited by Zuan on Sat Aug 20, 2022 6:14 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: [ORP]Times in North Fenshire

Post by Ella »

Summers in North Fenshire were by far more appealing for Ella Blackwood than the harsher cold months of winter. It was easier to hide inside by the fire during those months to avoid the harsh winter winds, but that wasn't always possible when you were accompanying the King. Courting the King meant there were certain expectations of her. When he first brought her to his estate months ago, she had gone on to accompany him on a week’s trip touring the dukedom. She enjoyed the journey but by the end, she would have sworn her toes might fall off if she spent any more time outdoors. Now that they were back here again, she was quite glad about the reprieve from the North Fenian cold. Granted it was still not a particularly warm climate but it was at least more bearable for the woman who always felt cold.

When they woke the morning after their arrival, Zuan told her of his plans for them to go on a morning ride. Ella nodded her head before promptly burrowing herself back under the wolf blankets. She didn't need to get up, at least not immediately. The King trusted her to pry herself from the covers in due time. He would in the meantime ready their horses.

She eventually did extradite herself from the very comfortable bedding and selected an outfit that would be suitable for riding. A maid helped her dress, something she wasn't used to despite being a Countess in her own right. She wore a navy cape over a long silver dress made of fabric that was far more durable than it looked – probably because Ella has used her own magic to enhance it. Then she slipped on a pair of grey riding boots and set off down to the stables. Well, first she made a detour to the kitchen. Knowing Zuan he likely wouldn't have eaten breakfast and so she would make sure they had something to eat on the trip. But then she was off to the stables.


"Fancy seeing you here," Ella joked playfully as she greeted the King. He appeared to have readied the horses himself, which would have surprised her when they had first started courting but she had since learned that he enjoyed this task when he was not encumbered by the many duties of being King. She brandished a satchel she had brought with her from the kitchens. "I brought snacks."
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Re: [ORP]Times in North Fenshire

Post by Zuan »

The King smiled softly as he noted Ella’s approach. He shaked his head softly at her comment about seeing him there, as if they had not planned it earlier the same day. However he continued his work on the two horses until he was content the saddles were secure before giving Ella his full focus. Turning to face her he chuckled at her second comment. “Snacks you say?” He teased lightly, admiring her for a moment, before leaning in to kiss her softly. “So you did, and look…” He pointed at the satchel “You brought food too.” He growled before kissing her deeper the second time around.

The weather was ideal for their trip, and so once the kiss was broken he offered Ella his assistance in mounting her steed before climbing atop his own, and with that they began at a steady speed into the nearby woodlands for a quiet retreat. They did not need to hurry as they were free to explore as they wished and their destination, of the heated lake, was set. Turning his gaze towards Ella again he commented, rather amusedly.
“I must apologise my lady, I fear I must take the blame for you needing to rest for as long as you did this morning.” He smirked at her for a moment. “However I must say you are positively radiant, and I am glad that after the recent months we finally have a few moments to ourselves away from the court and the Kingdom.” He said truthfully as their horses continued along a path in the forest, which had been created primarily by the hooves of other steeds over the years. “How are you finding it now? That we are courting, and all of the courtiers are required to stare at you with revered and respectful glances?” He teased lightly with another smirk.
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Re: [ORP]Times in North Fenshire

Post by Ella »

Ella laughed as her lips parted from the kiss. "Behave," she teased him before he pulled her in again. This time the kiss grew more heated and she couldn't help but fall into his embrace. The bag she had been carrying slowly slid down her arm and hit the ground with a soft thud. The sound brought her back around and she pulled away from the kiss, whispering with less than an inch keeping them separated. "Or not."

Luckily he didn't tempt her with further kisses, or else she may have found they never took the ride they had planned for the morning. Ella accepted Zuan's hand as he helped her mount her horse. She was less accustomed to riding, having always had easier means of traveling even before she had been bestowed the shadow powers. Creatures, especially humans, seemed to enjoy it as a pastime beyond just a means of transportation. It was something the witch had slowly gotten used to, even if it was still a bit unfamiliar to her.

They began their journey, leaving the stables and continuing on into the forest on a lesser traveled path. Ella was pretty sure he hadn't taken her this way before but she wasn't certain.


"No bags under my eyes?" She asked jokingly as he mentioned her apparent lack of sleep. Something told her he'd still call her beautiful even if she looked on the brink of death.

"I'm glad too, I've enjoyed spending time with you. Both here and away from court." Ella smiled at him as though he may not have seen the reaction as he traveled a bit ahead of her. Ella did her best to keep her steed up to pace with Zuan and his mount. Luckily for her, the horse had been well bred and trained so he had a relatively easy temperament and was easy to guide even for a novice.

She pondered his next question carefully, not immediately answering. For a few moments, the only sound they could be heard was the horses as they traveled further along the path.
"It's weird," she admitted, breaking her silence. "I don't think courting a man, even a King should merit reverence or newfound respect." Regardless of her feelings for him and her hopes for their potential future together, she didn't want to be reduced down to a pretty accessory on the arm of a powerful man.

Her eyes scanned the tree line, looking for any sign of familiarity.
"Where are we heading?" The witch asked casually, completely neglecting the fact the destination was meant to be a surprise.
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Re: [ORP]Times in North Fenshire

Post by Zuan »

He chuckled lightly at her comment. ”Not that I can see, and I do enjoy looking into your eyes from time to time, so I think I would have noticed.” He teased softly as they continued through the woods, their pace was not swift, but equally given they were travelling through the woods they were limited to how fast they could ride regardless.

He listened as she went on to explain how it felt for her to now be courting him and the reaction that came with it from members of the nobility and the wider court. She had a point of course, it should have no impact at all, but alas, that was rarely how things worked, especially within the walls of the Royal Court.
”Alas, people will always judge, stare and make conclusions upon situations that they know very little about, it is the way of things, and we cannot change the nature of man. I just wished to know your feelings on the matter, given you are now being so openly exposed to it, both the reverence and the pressures.”

He smirked and let out a small laugh at her final comment. ”You are rubbish with surprises aren’t you?” He teased with a grin and a small shake of his head. ”We are going to explore the woods, though I suspect you have worked that much out for yourself, as for what we may find, who knows?” He said amusedly as they continued upon their path. ”It should not be too long now however, we are almost there. Is there anything you wish to ask of me before we arrive? Away from the world and the listening ears of the castle walls?” He said softly, as they slowly continued their journey towards the destination, happy to use this time to discuss such things which usually were followed by the glance of a servant or the cough of a courtier.
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Re: [ORP]Times in North Fenshire

Post by Ella »

"It could be the rose-colored glasses," Ella countered him before poking out her tongue at him. One nice thing she'd found in their relationship was that she felt free to tease and joke and just be herself without fear of upsetting him or annoying him. If it was just them all the time, Ella Blackwood might very well turn into a relaxed and carefree individual. It was the rest of the world that caused the witch to have such an anxious disposition.

She chewed her lip as Zuan spoke of the nature of people judging others. She knew he wasn't trying to dismiss her, but she also wondered if by this point he became so accustomed to people's gossip and stares that he was just numb to it. Ella wasn't sure she'd ever be able to feel so at ease with it, but only time would tell.

The assertion that she was rubbish at surprises was invariably true. Never had she ever been able to keep from asking what was meant to be a surprise. Maybe it was her anxiety playing into things or maybe she just didn't like not knowing. Ella wasn't even sure on the matter.
"Well, you're not wrong," she answered with a soft laugh of her own.

"Is there something I should want to ask?" She raised an eyebrow before looking further down the trail. She fell silent for a moment as she considered what he had said. "I can't think of anything..." She was not the best with being put on the spot for questions and so she racked her brain trying to figure out what it was she should want to discuss.
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