ginevrademedici

[ginevrademedici]

chvrlottes​:

✣

“ if you are old then, what am i ?  ” it was easy to forget that charlotte was the older one between them — she was one of the youngest on her family, and had always been treated like a child by her uncles and aunts. but her smile was a playful one, urging ginevra to not trust her words. life went differently for people — just because charlotte were married and was going to have a child by the age of twenty - six, it didn’t mean that ginevra’s life should be like hers. her sister, alix, was the epitome of charlotte’s ideas — despite alix being the older one, charlotte’s life was “ahead” of her sister’s. but it didn’t mean that charlotte’s life was better. “ thank you, ginevra. you do not know how your words ease my heart. ” and it was true. someone else believed in her skills as a future mother, and by doing so, charlotte had a new encouragement to believe in herself. “ oh, if the physician is right, you will meet them. they will be here in about three months. ”

charlotte’s view of god probably was way more twisted than her friend’s one, but she nodded in agreement nonetheless. ginevra grew up in a way more catholic environment than charlotte — her parents supported the church and its ideals, but religion was one of their last priorities. “ yes, i must agree with you. but being punished made much more sense inside my head than being pregnant. ” she laughed, putting one of her hands upon her growing abdomen at the mention of the baby. she had so many fears — but everyone else had, too. “ i am sure of that. we will laugh at this for many years ahead, because you will never let me rest, i am aware. ”

she hoped vasily could be like ginevra’s words, but charlotte knew better by now. “ i do not think he did, gin. ” it wasn’t easy to talk about that, but ginevra presence made charlotte feel at ease. they were friends, and she should trust them to tell her problems. “ we do not see each other, despite sleeping in the same room. my husband is a busy, and i think i put too much hope on his shoulders that he did not ask me to. ” it was a hard truth, but charlotte need to accepted that — vasily wasn’t the man she idealized inside her head before their marriage. 

“Older,” Gin countered, emphasising the latter syllable with a cheeky grin. Like Charlotte, Ginevra had long been babied by the older members of their family. It seemed only natural when the age gap between the Medicis was as large as it was, and they didn’t buck against it, instead accepting, even embracing it. It kept their brothers indulgent of even their more childish of whims, and that suited them to the ground for now - especially when they were trying to avoid their own marriage prospects. They didn’t think they would take to the role of wife and mother quite the way Charlotte had. “I only say what I think is true.” They waved away her thanks, before their eyes widened at the revelation. “So soon? That hardly gives you any time to prepare  at all.” It was a terrifying thought, that once one was married, they could find themselves a few weeks away from giving birth at any time. Gin was sure they wanted no part in that. 

 “I think I can understand,” Ginevra spoke softly. Her own relationship with God was straightforward enough. Their mother and father had little time for religion, but growing up with the Pope as your Uncle did leave certain pressures to conform to the Catholic ideal. Though unconventional in many ways, Ginevra did not waiver in her commitment to her faith. “As humans, we have a tendency to see and expect the worst. But this should be a joyous time, Charlotte. There is no need for fear or punishment. And when your child is older, or having children of their own, I am sure they will look to your example.” 

Gin’s brows furrowed at Charlotte’s words. This was exactly what they feared for themself, a marriage that was cold and loveless, the type which Charlotte was describing - or what Ginevra thought they were describing, at least. Having a sizable dowry and the de’ Medici name was not always a good thing, and in matters like this, it was more of a curse than an asset. “Oh, Charlotte...” they trailed off, uncertain of what to say to soothe her. “Are you all right? Are you happy?” 

[ginevrademedici]

lordorazio​:

◆

“Enzo has been an angel. Like always,” Orazio defended his companion with a wink, before he resumed petting him. Although he left the servants in Sicily detailed instructions for his pets, the young lord continued to worry about his menagerie. Seeing Enzo again had only reminded him of what was waiting for him back home. For as much as he worked against Vincenzo’s plans for him, he acknowledged the responsibility he had. His father would scold him for valuing the lives of the animals over his familial, but Orazio was familiar with the sentiment.

“He looked hungry, so I purchased a cut of lamb for him before you found us,” he elaborated to ease Ginevra’s nerves. Based on how clean Enzo was, he assumed the duo hadn’t been separated for too long, but he still empathized with her remembering panic he felt when his owl had escaped. “How are you?” he asked, unease wrapped itself around his heart as he accepted the reality of the matter. Seeing Ginevra in Rome was eventual, an outcome he had hope to delay until he understood the situation better.

“If you haven’t yet, you must try the rice cakes. I would return for a second helping if it wasn’t for the long line,” he added, a feeble attempt to avoid discussing the issue. Despite the rivalry between their brothers, he admired Ginevra. Maybe this was karma for disregarding the status quo.

“I find that hard to believe,” Gin chuckled. Their little dog was almost as much as Ginevra themself was, only falling short because he could not answer back. Still, they would not change him - nor would they change Orazio, despite how far things between them had shifted. He was still their friend, after all, and perhaps things had changed since last they saw him. While a part of Ginevra still wanted to run a mile, they weren’t the type to be rude without cause, and technically, he had done nothing wrong. 

They shifted Enzo, moving him slightly so that Orazio could better reach him for fuss. “That was kind of you. I’ll make sure I repay you, I promise.” It was pennies compared to everything they had, the fortunes of the Medici and Farnese families, but they didn’t want to be beholden to him, even for something as simple as a cut of lamb. “I am well,” they answered, a short bob of their head providing confirmation, despite the shortness of the statement. “And... you?  I have not heard news from Sicily for a while.” They had been avoiding it at every turn, but Orazio need not know that. 

“RIce cakes?” They bit the corner of their lip, unable to deny their own curiosity. “Perhaps if we get Enzo to bark loud enough, the crowd may disperse a little? Then we could enjoy all the rice cakes we want.” 

[ginevrademedici]

chvrlottes​:

✣

the warmest laugh left charlotte’s lips, her eyes shining with happiness. it was something that she longed to feel since a young age — to be truly happy was something the valois princess had been denied since a young age; the things that made her happy then were disregard by her parents as futile affairs. but this ? to carry a child inside her womb couldn’t be looked down on. “ if it consoles you, neither i do really believe it. ” charlotte confessed, squeezing ginevra’s hands with the same firmness. she fought the urge to rest them upon her abdomen to feel the baby moving. “ i know it is just my duty as a wife, but i can help myself and be excited as i am. ”

“ at first, i thought god was punishing me. ” she whispered in a low tune. charlotte was in a catholic country, surrounded by catholic people. givevra themselves was one, but the french princess knew they wouldn’t judge her. “ i was really troubled to change my religion, but now i understand that i was imagining things. and my humor is not one of the bests, if i am being honest. i just thought my restlessness to be because of the many changes i witnessed in the russian court. ” ginevra’s words flattered her. charlotte was too afraid to repeat her parent’s mistakes, and her child being like herself. “ i … thank you, gin. but i am so afraid. ”

her face tensed at the mention of her husband. she was too afraid to tell vasily about the news — charlotte was sure he would be pleased, after all, her pregnancy meant that she wasn’t infertile and could bear his heirs. however, the lingering fear of disappointment still troubled her. “ i did not tell him, yet. i plan to do this tonight, if i see him. ”

It is rare to see Charlotte like this. Ginevra knows her to be one of the kindest people they know, but the happiness that shines from her eyes right now is like moonbeams - a sight to behold, and Ginevra is glad to see it. They weren’t lying when they said it - Charlotte would be a wonderful mother, and their child would be lucky to have her. “It does not console me - I feel old before my time,” they declared, dramatically. Charlotte had grown up, become a wife and mother in the blink of an eye, whereas Ginevra still felt like a child most of the time. It was a curious thing, but Ginevra know it was largely their own fault - after all, they avoided all talk of a marriage of their own, for better or worse. “You should be excited. This is a wonderous thing, Charlotte. Perhaps the best thing that could ever happen to you.” Ginevra’s own mother had once said similar of her children, and devoid of one of her own, that was about the only wisdom Ginevra could pass on. “I only hope I can meet your baby before you must return to Russia, or else I will just have to come with you.” 

Ginevra was Italian, and niece to the Pope besides. They knew what it was to fear God, for they had been brought up in much a similar way to Charlotte. “You are still Catholic, sweet one,” she assured her. “And your child will be, too. We all serve the same God, and will be together in the Kingdom of Heaven when the time comes. He would not punish you for such things. You can tell, for he has given you the greatest of gifts.” In this, Ginevra referred to the baby, for weren’t all babies a gift from heaven above? “I think to be afraid is natural. This time in a year, though, you will be an old hand at motherhood. We will laugh at this conversation later, you mark my words.” 

Only a fool - or one less observant than Ginevra de’ Medici, would miss how Charlotte’s expression changed at the mention of Vasily’s name. They hoped that he was kind to Charlotte, but the way she tensed at the mention of him did not leave much room for hope. “Perhaps he already knows, and is just waiting for you to confirm the news. After all, I noticed, didn’t I?” 

[ginevrademedici]

charlestudor​:

✘

Ginevra certainly raised a good point. ❝ One would think a dragon should have four legs about it, shouldn’t it? ❞ Charles pondered. ❝ I fear I find the idea of a two-legged dragon quite ridiculous; it’d certainly have to waddle around if it were to travel anywhere on foot, would it not? And that would quite defeat the purpose of it being a menacing, formidable creature. ❞ He frowned slightly, lost in thought. ❝ I must say, I don’t think I believe such an animal could exist. Mayhaps in the New World, as you said. Although it is indeed curious that so many different peoples believe that dragons exist. It seems to be a recurring theme from England all the way to China. ❞ Though he’d never admit it out loud, Charles relished these conversations with Ginevra, who made him think about things beyond the bottle or petty court life. 

Charles chuckled at Ginevra’s response to his flattery. ❝ I think my betrothed would actually be quite enthused to hear it, and beg for you to rid her of me. ❞ He spoke pointedly in jest, but his jokes usually contained a nugget of truth to them. They were his only way to acknowledge things out loud, without jeopardizing anything that hadn’t already been jeopardized.

Taking the book from Ginevra’s hands, Charles examined it glibly, flipping through its thick pages. ❝ You’re right, ❞ he replied, as he finally handed the book back to them. ❝ I’m not the reading sort. ❞ And to prove he wasn’t speaking out of anything akin to glumness, he added, teasing, ❝ Why should I read a book when I can just have you tell me about it? ❞

“Birds have only two legs though,” Ginevra pointed out, the hint of a teasing smile on their face. “As do bats. Anything with four legs and two wings would have six limbs all together, and that seems like far too many limbs to have.” They covered their mouth, laughing out loud at the idea of the poor, waddling dragon. “On this, I will defer to the Englishman. Just this once, though. I wouldn’t get used to being right.”  They nodded, quite in agreement. “They’d certainly be hard to miss, if they were real at all. “I do not think that either of us will ever come face to face with a dragon in our lifetime. Or in anybody else’s, no matter the country. I’ve read in the East they have found the most curious bones though, large enough to belong to a dragon. Perhaps they all died out long before our time.” It was the most reasonable explanation Ginevra could think of, but something about it still seemed wrong. 

“What did you do to her?” Ginevra placed their hands on their hips, shooting him a look of faux-disapproval. They suspected there was more to his words than he was letting on, but they would not pry. If he wished to joke about it, they would follow his lead. “This is the perfect time to win her over though, no? Let us find her a present that you can give to her, and see if that wins her over.” 

Gin took the book back, and mimed swatting him over the head with it, though they stopped before making contact. “As honoured as I am to be your personal librarian, I beg you not to tempt me. I’ve been told I talk about books far too much, so unless you have trouble sleeping, I’d avoid the subject entirely.” 

[ginevrademedici]

suhajan​:

Esra had run off once more, leaving him to wander. Perhaps she hoped for him to loosen up with the festivities. But the weight of his father’s expectations weighed heavy on him. Maybe that’s why he found himself at a stall that held jewels from home: maps, fabrics, and even dried goods. There were a few books here and there, but he had read them all. He couldn’t help but reach out, wanting to grab them and find himself lost in a familiar sea of words. But then a voice caught his attention, and he turned. He eyed them, assessing the face albeit similar to a chess piece, and recognition flickered inside him. 

Ginevra Romola di Piero de’ Medici.

An eccentric child from the Medici family, Suhan had seen them in passing. During the initial ceremony, he had caught a glimpse and made inquiries, but he staged surprised. It was better to keep his investigations a secret for now. The question caught him off guard; home was a subject he doesn’t indulge much in if given a chance. However, he knew that relations with others who carried power would have to toss such feelings aside. Instead, he offered a welcoming smile without a falter seen. The silence on his end was becoming too long. 

“My apologies, such a question has not been asked in a long time. But I wonder if I will ever meet such expectations. My home is merely a landscape of sand, not like here.” He straightened his posture and raised a brow at them before he glanced around at the snow around them. “But do not worry about such things. However, I wonder may I catch your name..?” 

A cunning man Suhan was crafted to be, and he wondered how they would respond.

Which was more important? Formalities or knowledge.

It was a struggle to hide their disappointment with their answer, though Ginevra suspects it is a ruse, a means by which he can steer the conversation to one more of hit liking. If he thought this would be enough to dissuade Ginevra, though, he was mistaken. They were stubborn to a fault, and far more used to being brushed off to allow that to get to them. 

“My name is Ginevra. De’ Medici.” The last name is added almost as an afterthought, muttered as though they’re hoping he doesn’t catch it. They’re proud of their family and where they came from, of course, but being de’ Medici lately seems to come with more bad than good. From what they know of the Mughal Empire, though, the man before them has little need of the Medici Bank. His home is a place of riches, growing fast despite the vast decline facing most of the world. 

“I know your name, but I’m afraid I do not know how to address a Maharaja.” It isn’t a question, but another glib request for knowledge. Their eyes meet his, and they wonder if he can see the determination within them. If he does, will he bend to her thirst for information, their desire to soak in all they can about a world they have never seen? 

“The snow on the sand would be quite the sight,” Ginevra laughed at the thought, reaching up to brush a few errant flakes from the shoulder of their cloak. “It cannot be all sand though, surely? I have read there are mountains in the North. It must snow there, where the air is thin.” 

[ginevrademedici]

Where Ginevra went, Enzo followed. It had been that way since the day the Pope had gifted him to them. For much of the day, he had trailed happily at their heels, only pausing when he caught whiff of a particularly interesting scent, but always finding his way back to their side.

It was with a start that they realised they didn’t know the last time they saw him. Enzo was well trained, not one for wandering off, and the two of them must have gotten separated by the crowd. Panic rose in Gin’s chest. Had they been at home in Florence, they didn’t think it would bother them quite so much, but Enzo didn’t know Rome, didn’t know his way home. Gin fought her way back through the crowd, retracing their steps, doing everything but screaming Enzo’s name. 

A happy bark drew their attention, and their head whipped around, a look of relief spreading across their face. “Enzo!” They cried happily, crouching down and opening their arms for the small ball of fluff to barrel into. Scooping him up, Ginevra tucked him under their arm, where he would stay until they saw him safely home to the Medici Villa. 

It was only then they turned to look at his companion. Orazio. They should have known. They were fond of Orazio - he was a lot more fun to be around than most Italian lords, but lately, things had been weird. Perhaps that was Ginevra’s fault, but today, the bit her tongue, and offered him a smile. 

“And what have you two been up to? Causing trouble, I hope?” 

date & time: january 3rd, 1570, midafternoon location: winter carnival (vendors stall) availability: closed @ginevrademedici​

With a trained eye, Orazio perused the stalls in search of gifts for his older brothers. Both who would be frustrated at his frivolous spending, but the young lord was a firm believer in starting the new year with good luck. Misfortune was discarded along with the clothes he requested the servants to donate as part of his annual ritual. He had been in the middle of examining a first edition text from a Turkish merchant when he was greeted by the sight of an old friend. Well, correction, he heard the familiar bark warning him.

“Enzo? What are you doing here?” he crouched down to talk to the pet like he would talk to a peer. Wherever Enzo was, his owner wasn’t far away. Yet, based on his quick scan of the area, Orazio didn’t see the young Medici in the vicinity. “Let’s get you a treat and then we can start looking for Gin,” he told the dog as he joined the line in hopes of securing a bone for his companion first. Looking down to check on his friend, he saw him waiting by his feet in the line.

“I missed you too,” he grinned as Enzo accepted the bone he purchased. “Let’s find Gin before they start to worry about you.”

[ginevrademedici]

chvrlottes​:

✣

ginevra’s warmth reminded her of a time when charlotte was somehow happy. she couldn’t recall a time when she truly felt such sentiment — in her every achievement, the french princess felt the weight of her parents disappointment regarding her sex  resting on her shoulders. for a child, it was a difficult situation. but the company of her friends helped her, somehow. with them, charlotte could be herself without judgments — display her truly personality, the one that wasn’t a copy of her sister’s one. 

the question made her laugh. a soft sound, followed by a smile that could match the brightness of the sun itself. charlotte found her six-month pregnancy a few hours before meeting ginevra, and it was funny how they could notice that from a simple hug. “ yes. ” she whispered, excitement dripping from her voice. “ can you imagine it, gin ? because i can not, if i am being honest with you. i never expected having a child so soon. ” the fears were there, following charlotte’s words like a predator following its prey. but these thoughts were not made to be known after delivering such news to a dearest friend. 

“ at first, i thought i was eating too much because of the weather. ” another laugh escaped her lips, a disbelieving sound. how could she not noticed that ? “ but today i felt something moving in my stomach area, and a servant took me to a see physician. ” everything was still too fresh — too good to be true. 

“It cannot be true,” Ginevra declared, though they were largely teasing. There was no denying the firmness of Charlotte’s belly. “We are far too young for one of us to be with child already. We were just little children not so long ago. I refuse to believe it.” Despite their words, Ginevra reached for Charlotte’s hands, clasping them in her own and giving them a firm squeeze. Ginevra had been thinking much about marriage, and in truth, the thought of it terrified them greatly. There was no guarantee of happiness in this life, but if Charlotte found it in her unborn child, then Ginevra would be delighted for her. 

A laugh escaped Ginevra, a shake of their head in amusement of their friend’s words. “Because of the weather? And what of the other symptoms? Did you think them to be a sign of your impending hibernation, too?”” There was no malice in their words, as evidence by the fond look in their eyes as they surveyed the French princess. “Then allow me to be the first of many to congratulate you. You will make a fine mother, Charlotte. That is plain for everyone to see.” 

Ginevra paused them, chewing on her lip lightly. They did not know how to approach talk of Charlotte’s husband. It was a difficult subject to broach when they had so many questions surrounding the subject to begin with. 

“Does Prince Vasily know?”

[ginevrademedici]

Closed starter for @suhajan

Location : a stall bearing goods from Hindustan

There was never a time in Ginevra’s life when they did not ask far too many questions. A nuisance, according to both of their brothers, though their parents had found it charming in its own way. Regardless of what Cosimo and Antonio thought of their incessant curiosity, the elder Medici brother did nothing to prevent them from chasing the answers to their questions. Ginevra loved him dearly for that. 

They surveyed the maharaja with great interest. They had never met anybody from the Mughal Empire before, much less a prince. A thousand questions sat on their tongue, but it was hard to know which to ask first. Would he even want such questions? Would he see them as impertinent, an annoyance to be ignored,, or would be welcome an interest in his culture? 

“I have a question,” they began, tapping their lips with their fingers before pressing on. “I have many questions, in actuality. About your home.” They allowed the words to linger, giving him ample opportunity to turn and run. “Would you mind terribly if I asked them to you? I have been told that I ask far too many of them.” 

[ginevrademedici]

ofcampania​:

**

“your uncle is quite the unusual man, should we truly blindly trust his interest?” bianca’s tone isn’t provocative. she almost laughs with her words. she trusts genevra themself knows how not everything that comes out of their uncle’s mouth is a smart choice. to be fair, despite being quite different from the man in many aspects, the biggest one is the liberty that comes with his sex. in regards to ginevra, bianca knows they too are different from her.

she isn’t privy of the details of their differences - perhaps she would know more if she had actually spend more time with them ever since she first met their brother, but she understands their stance. they must stand beside imperia, bianca is sure of it. to ginevra, she must be yet another woman with interest only the the medici’s wealth and power. bianca wishes she could make them understand not everyone who gets near them will want that, but she knows she isn’t the best example. after all, all she wants is antonio’s power and wealth. 

“we should go, however. i am eager to know what is lord medici found so amusing within the center.” she wants to suggest they’ll perhaps then find a nude man in the maze’s core, but she refrains from the playful provocation. 

Ginevra fell silent, lips pressing together. Their uncle was an unusual man, but it felt wrong to hear such things from someone who is not family. For a moment, they contemplated snapping back at Bianca, of abandoning their misguided attempt to get to know the woman Antonio thought so highly of. The moment passed, though, and Ginevra forced a smile and a slight shrug. “He loves me,” there was no arrogance or cockiness in her words, just truth. “He would not tell me such things if he thought I wouldn’t like it.” 

It wasn’t that they disliked Bianca, wasn’t that they thought she was a bad person. She was simply an embodiment of everything Ginevra feared, everything their mother had warned them about. Clearly, Antonio had not been privy to the same warnings, or if he had, he hadn’t listened. Ginevra wanted to grab him and shake him until he saw sense, to speak plainly to Bianca and beg her to leave their brother alone, but both were adults, more than capable of rational thought of their own. Her words would likely do nothing but give them something to laugh at. 

“Oh. Right.” Despite extending the invitation in good faith, a part of Ginevra had not expected Bianca to accept. They gestured for the other to enter first, taking up the rear as they enter. The hedges are wide enough for the two of them to walk abreast, and so Ginevra does, falling into step beside her as they round the first corner and come face to face with the first fork in the path. “We should go right,” they reasoned. “The left looks like it will lead to the center, but I imagine this is some sort of trick. Plus their are footprints coming back this way,” they pointed at the ground to demonstrate their deductions. “There’s none of that from the right.” 

[ginevrademedici]

charlestudor​:

✘

Spending time with this particular Medici always felt like a splash of ice-cold water to Charles, like blinking awake from a daze. They always seemed to be two steps ahead of him, always knowing just a little bit more about any given subject than him, something he had come to ❪begrudgingly❫ respect. The only area Charles had the greater expertise in was his own language, which he didn’t really consider to be anything to be proud of anyway. He was supposed to be knowledgeable in English. He was the crown prince of England after all.

He squinted down at the book placed before him, a book that was printed not handwritten. He’d come to appreciate printed books, for text was more standardized and he didn’t have to squint at some long-dead monk’s script to try to decipher what they were trying to say. ❝ A wyvern? That’s a two-legged dragon, I believe. ❞ He looked up at the stalls around them, all English, and grinned, pointing to a tapestry nearby. It featured all sorts of mythical beasts, with the wyvern as its centerpiece. ❝ That’s one right there. ❞

❝ English is a difficult language, ❞ he affirmed, ❝ but thankfully you have a dashing English prince at your beck and call who can come to your aid in these moments. ❞ Charles teased, before turning back to the book at hand. ❝ Is this one worth the read? ❞  

Ginevra couldn’t help it. They laughed, a look of bemused amusement on their face. “You English and your dragons,” they teased, though there was no malice in it. “Anyone would think you were simply crawling with them.” They paused for a moment, tilting their head in thought. “Of course, it does beg the question; how many legs should a dragon have? I’ve certainly never seen an animal with wings and more than two legs, myself. Maybe they have such strange creatures in The New World or something, but certainly not England.” It was a banal, pointless question, but they couldn’t help themselves. They took far too much pleasure in talking circles around him, even with the most pointless of conversation. 

“At my beck and call?” Their brows raised. From most men, the statement would have them running for the hills. Not Charles, though. He was betrothed. They had read the announcement themself when digging through Cosimo’s personal correspondences. Betrothed, and a prince besides. If he wanted anything from her, it certainly wouldn’t be Medici money, and that made him a relatively safe companion for the time being. Instead of running, they flattened a palm to their chest, raising another hand to press the back to their forehead in a mockery of a swoon. “I shall be the envy of all in Rome. Pray your fiancee does not find out, or she may scratch my eyes out.” 

Chuckling, their attention returned to the book. Ginevra shrugged, closing it and holding it out for him to survey. “I’ve read it before. I just didn’t know some of the words and thought I would ask while I could. It’s enjoyable, but not really very realistic. You can borrow it if you like. I don’t have you down as the reading sort, though.” 

[ginevrademedici]

Ginevra had long held a soft spot in their heart for Charlotte Valois. The Italian had somewhat of a sheltered upbringing, sticking close to their family and chasing their interests unapologetically. Their were also unyieldingly curious, and their never-ending questions usually served to drive any potential friends away. Charlotte was different, though. Not only did the French Princess have the patience to put up with Ginevra, she seemed to enjoy doing so, and their friendship had endured the years through to childhood. 

“Charlotte,” they couldn’t conceal the beam on their face as they bounded over to the other, arms outstretched for a hug. There was no propriety between them - it wouldn’t feel natural for there to be after all these years, even with Charlotte married these days. Ginevra hadn’t seen her since the wedding, but they were sure there would be much to catch up on. They were certainly curious to hear Charlotte’s thought on marital life, a conundrum that Ginevra had been unable to shake of late. 

Once Charlotte was in their arms, Ginevra noticed something a little different. It had been a while, certainly, but not so long that they couldn’t remember what it felt like to hug her. Releasing the princess, Ginevra glanced down, brows raising as they took note of her figure. Only a slight swell, but Ginevra was more observant than most. “Forgive me, my friend, if it is just insulation against the Russian Winter... but are you...” they paused, gesturing as they tried to think of a way to phrase things politely. “Are you going to have a baby?”

closed starter for @ginevrademedici​. 

location & time: rome’s streets, mid-morning.  

charlotte couldn’t say that she had many childhood friends. she was so quiet back then, always hiding behind her older sister, alix. however, ginevra de medici was the only child around her age that crossed her walls and actually became a close friend. it had been a while since the both of them talked to each other — the proximity between france and italy didn’t mean that charlotte could visit her friend as much as she wanted.

but now, at the sacred land of rome, she wanted to see ginevra again. it would be good to be around someone who she could be herself again, be the princess of france she were before she got married. charlotte couldn’t blame her husband or the country that welcomed her with open arms for her change of behavior, only blame the expectations charlotte herself and others around her put on her shoulders. it would be great to be around someone that liked her for who she was, and not for who she could represent.

however, charlotte didn’t know where she could find her medici friend. she doubted god would help her, and while the chilly italian air felt almost like summer to her skin, charlotte felt a weakness not welcomed trying to crawl through her body. maybe god is finally looking upon me, charlotte thought when she spotted the unique features of her friend, a few steps ahead of herself.

“ ginevra ! mon amie !! ” charlotte called, an excited & large smile gracing her lips.

[ginevrademedici]

jeonghye​:

The language barrier was being extremely gruesome, even worse, she was having trouble identifying common mannerisms. She knew that she was underprepared, but she had underestimated how much. She also underestimated her ability to get swindled out of her money, it was bothersome and humiliating, beside it was money extremely hard to get and she had the talent of losing it. If it was something lost with gambling or women, she could understand, but getting swindled? It was too much for her pride.

She accepts the money bag and bows at least twice, almost crying with gratitude. Being used to loud noises and crowds of people, she shouldn’t be such a fool, having enough sense she puts the money pouch inside her sleeve and turns to look at her savior. The stumbling mandarin making her smile.

❝ I thank you enormously, this is the last bit of money that I have ❞ admitting being short of money generally helped more than hinder in these cases. Impoverished nobleman had a certain romantic air around it, although the degree of “impoverished” didn’t impede her to waste money on good fabrics. ❝ It appears that I, unfortunately, I have a gift for attracting this sort of people ❞ perhaps it was because liars attracted like minded people.

“Then I am even more glad to have helped you. There is no need for thanks. Any decent person would have done the same.” Ginevra waved their hand, shaking their head until their curls bounced by way of gently rejecting their gratitude. They have always had a keen sense of justice, of fairness, and expect no thanks for that. 

“I suppose it must have been a long journey for you, no? It must be hard to know how much to bring with you.” They wondered, vaguely, if they could be in the same position, stuck in foreign lands without two pennies to rub together, but Cosimo would never allow it. For the Medici, money was in their blood. He would never allow them to be caught without it. It was a matter of pride. 

“My uncle should have been more careful about who they chose to invite here today. It is no reflection on you.” They spoke soothingly, shaking their head again. If they kept this up, they would soon be dizzy. “Perhaps we should play a game. Have you approach the traders so we can see who would cheat you. At least then, we will be able to warn people who to stay away from.” 

[ginevrademedici]

Closed Starter for @ofcampania​

Location : Outside the Ice Maze

Ginevra peered curiously at the entrance to the ice maze. It was like something out of their wildest dreams, the entrance to the castle of a terrifying and imposing snow queen, grandiose and fantastical. They’d never seen anything of the like before, and more than likely never would again, but it seemed a lonely activity to attempt alone, as much as they wanted to dive in. No, if they were going to enjoy themself, they would need company. 

There was somebody else lingering, though. Somebody Ginevra knew only all too well. They had never had a true discussion with their brother about Bianca, but it was more that obvious what was going on. That alone had Ginevra on high alert, automatically suspicious of the other woman, but they bit their tongue. Perhaps they had simply not given her a chance. 

“What about it?” They offered, tentatively. They weren’t sure if they wanted her to say yes or no. “Shall we try and find our way to the centre? My uncle says there’s quite the show if you get there. It could be interesting.” 

[ginevrademedici]

Closed Starter for @charlestudor​

Location : The Winter Fair

Ginevra’s English was not the best. They could speak and understand it with relative ease, occasionally hiccoughing over a mispronunciation or mistranslation every now and again, but found it complex to read. It didn’t stop them trying though, holding the book in their hand, tilting their head from left to right in order to try and make sense of what was in front of them. 

The book was one they had picked up from a stall, decorated in shades of red and white. A sturdy thing, with the gold illustrating elaborate patterns. From what they had already deduced, it promised to be a good read, a tale of ghosts and fantastical creatures. They preferred stories a little more grounded in reality, of grisly deaths and unfolding mysteries, but this was still something that sparked their curiosity.  

Of course, there was no way they could actually enjoy the read if they were spending the whole time trying to figure out what the blasted thing said. Ginevra squinted their eyes at a particularly troubling word. If they were going to make it through the chapter, they would need help. “This word,” they thrusted the book toward the red-haired prince, jabbing their finger to the paper so he could see what they meant. “Wyvern?” They tested it tentatively, somehow knowing they had gotten the pronunciation wrong. “What is this? What does it mean?” They glanced up at him, a questioning look on their face. “English is a difficult language to read. It almost feels like whoever wrote this is just playing a trick on me.” 

[ginevrademedici]

Ginevra had always been the baby, adored and spoiled by their elder family members, including their brothers. They adored them in turn, but that did not mean they had to agree with all of their choices. Cosimo was one thing - most of the time, it was easy for Ginevra to love Cosimo. Antonio was something else entirely. 

Intelligence ran through each of the Medici children in spades, but while Cosimo and Ginevra chose to apply themselves, Antonio had always been the odd one out. Ginevra understood him far less than they did Cosimo, and much as they loved their brother, they could not feel anything but disappointment for some of his actions. 

One such disappointment was Imperia. Imperia was everything a woman and a wife should be, full of the a regal sort of elegance Ginevra could only dream of. The two were as different as night and day, but the day Imperia had spoken her vows, she had become family, and Ginevra had welcomed her with open arms. They may never be able to imitate their impeccable demeanour, but that did not mean they could not look up to her, to treat her as the sister that she was by law. 

“Rome is always exciting, but even more so now.” The Winter Fair alone would be the highlight of Ginevra’s year, but when combined with the thrill of foreign visitors? It made them positively giddy. “I suppose it must be strange for you to be here as a visitor,” they mused. “After all, this is your home, isn’t it? Does it feel different?”

@ginevrademedici​ !

marriage was not an easy feat.

but it was a necessity, one evil exchanged for another. or perhaps, so imperia believed, another stepping stone for what life entailed; truly, she did not know. it never quite ceased to amaze her how opportunities and risks alike could be thrown in her path with no regard for the complexity of her mind, the fear for something she wouldn’t be able to grasp.

talking of such matters to antonio was of no use: the man’s interest in her was barely alive and the only connection they now shared was the growing baby in her belly. cosimo and helena were kind enough to her but distracted by their own duties and imperia genuinely did not see the need to appeal to them when she knew it would serve no greater purpose. there was little they could do and the thought of either of her in-laws stepping in to talk some sense into her husband was dismissed just as easily.

“and how do you find rome?”

ginevra, on the other hand, was more than imperia could have hoped for. perhaps not altogether someone she truly did understand, there was something immaculate about the way the younger clawed their way into what they considered to be just and fair. the older wasn’t foolish enough to mistake admiration for friendship but some tiny, lonely part in the back of her mind whispered she should give it a try.

it would be a comfort to have someone in this family to rely on.

[ginevrademedici]

Closed Starter for @jeonghye​

Location : The Winter Carnival

Ginevra had seen Rome in the Wintertime, though never like this. The city is as familiar to them as Florence was, but covered in a blanket of snow, it feels brand new once again. It is nicer in the area surrounding the Medici villa, their make-shift home here in Rome, where the ground is undisturbed and soft, crunching underneath their feet. In the Piazza della Rotonda, the paths between the stalls had already been walked by plenty by the time Ginevra arrives to browse the wares. The snow is compacted together, leaving only slippy ice in its wake. It’s tricky to walk like this, and so, Ginevra moves slowly, digging their heels in as much they can and hoping it is enough to keep them from slipping. 

Moving slowly offers another purpose, though. At this speed, Ginevra can listen, truly listen, to the conversations occurring around them. They have always been a curious creature, though they are sure their brothers would call it nosiness and curse them for it. There are so many mysteries in the world to unravel, and Ginevra would see themself as the one to do so. They catch snippets of chatter than brings a smile to their lips, that makes them pause for a second to listen further under the pretense of examining an item they have little interest in, and, unexpectedly, one that stirs their anger, that compels her to join in. 

They suppose it’s to be expected. There is money to be made here, and it makes a certain sense to jack your prices up for foreign visitors who know no better. What they’re listening to is outright trickery, though. It is not selective pricing, but outright taking advantage. Even as a Medici, Ginevra bridles at the thought. After all, if people are being cheated, it would be their uncle Giulio it would come back on. They inch closer, surreptitiously, only speaking when they are certain. 

“Scusi,” Ginevra interjects, the tone of their voice indicating little apologies. “That is not the right amount of money, and you know it,” they continue in Italian, staring the charlatan unflinchingly in the eye. Wordlessly, Ginevra holds a hand out for the coins the other is owed. “Give it back. Or I will make certain all know of this.” A beat of silence, and the coins drop swiftly into her palm, the vendor turning from the two and muttering curses under his breath. 

“My apologies,” she returns to the other, offering their palm so they could take back what belonged to them. They’re unsure what language to speak to them in, unsure where they are even from, and settles for a clumsy Mandarin, imperfect and accented, but understandable. “I believe this is what you are truly owed. It seems there are some cheats around today.”

[ginevrademedici]

By following the source link you will find my intro for Ginevra de’ Medici, resident smart-ass detective in chief. Please note that Ginevra is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. Feel free to hit me up for plots and connections!