stablelad

[stablelad]

moved to @honeyhold.

[stablelad]

you've changed quite a bit since i saw you last.

He'd been pushing up the sleeves of his shirt to his elbows when he heard the sweet voice. His head turning and eyes already blowing wide at knowing who would be standing there. His gaze lands on @sillygorl as he turns to face her, dark hues taking her in with a slow look that dragged across her frame. His lips parted, mouth going dry as he tried to repeat back the words she'd spoken to him. But the truth was? He didn't know what to say. He didn't have anything that could be said. It'd been years since he'd seen Lucy-- the last time back when they were just pre-teens running amuck Honeyhold. Well before her father sent her away to study under women in the North. Something about them being proper ladies....

"Lady Lucy..." his voice finally finds him, voice coming out in a gentle tone as he steps out of the stall he was about to start mucking. He comes to a stop a few feet off from her, unable to stop the way he's looking over her again. When he'd seen her last she was shorter, hair longer but just as curled. Her features weren't as pointed as they are now and it takes him a moment to gather his thoughts. She's beautiful... breath taking even. He'd heard whispers of how and Lady Justine grew into themselves, but he'd always found them to pretty. Lucy though? There'd been something about her smile that always lingered with him.

He stands taller than he did back when she saw him last, hair shorter and face scruffed with a slight mustache and goatee combo. He's as lanky as ever, all limbs, but he's built in the right places from all his time in the stables. He's constantly moving, constantly working. Unlike Lucy he hadn't gotten to go off and get a proper education... he'd learned everything from his dad. Reading, writing, playing a lute. You name it. He licks his lips, shaky breath leaving him as he stands with an awkward shift of his feet. He wrings his hands together, smile trying to feign just how eager he was to see her, "I heard rumors you'd be back soon, but I... I can't say I was expecting to see you so soon upon your return."

[stablelad]

It's a night of merriment, music, food, and dance. Everyone who is anyone is in attendance that isn't a royal. It's a fanfare experience one wouldn't want to miss and all for the selection of nobles to court the Griswald Sisters. It was meant to be a joyous night, but he was far from the feeling. He felt nothing but the pitting disgust of dread filling him. Tonight would mark his final chance to ever say anything to Lucy before someone else came along. He had been foolish to say nothing at all, foolish to not pick up on all the flirtatious context she'd lay out for him. @sillygorl was not shy when it came to her intentions, but Michael was. Especially when it had to do with the idea of crossing lines he knew he shouldn't. Lucy was the daughter of a noble house and she was expected to act as such, expected marry the likes of her kind.

And yet... she'd tease him. Wink at him. Flutter her hand along his arm. It was all these and more that would send Michael's brain firing off in every which direction. He wanted to react, wanted to give into all of it and be the very person she wanted to use. Did he know what for beyond something physical? No. But he'd happily lay himself back and melt under the motions of her frame-- the touch of her lips along his skin. How he yearned for all of that, but he knew his place. He knew that tonight wasn't his chance to finally speak but his realization that he never had a chance to begin with.

He was leading horses and carriages from the front of Honeyhold to the stables. He and his father, along with coachmen of varying houses, were in charge of the beasts while their masters danced and filled their bellies. His father had made some joke about it, but Michael ignored it-- throwing himself into his work until he spotted a flash of orange near the back entrance of the stables. It dragged him and his attention, drawing him in the direction until he was outside in the crisp night air. His head flicked to look at where he was certain the person had went and sure enough stood peering around the corner was Lucinda Griswald herself. She was dressed up and painted to appeal to the male gaze that was wondering about inside.

He admired it too. How couldn't he? She looked absolutely beautiful, stunning even as he followed her draw back from the corner. It led them behind the stables away from anyone's gaze as long as they kept their voices down, "What are you doing out here, Lady Lucy?"

“I desire you. I burn for you. I can't sleep at night because I want you."

His breath catches in his throat and his hands curl quickly at his sides, nails digging into his palms. His dark hues widening, "Wh... what?" He stutters over the one word, weight shifting and world slanting. Suddenly he felt sick and he wasn't sure if it was from nerves of what she was saying or that someone may hear them talking.

“Say you do not care for me. Tell me you feel nothing and I will walk away.”

The words fire through him, hit after hit as if arrows had been aimed at him for years. He knew she was forward and flirtatious, but he never wanted to read into it... but looking at her and those big brown eyes? He couldn't help the way his shoulders sank, melting him some to the spot as his face flushed with a warm blush. She was asking so much of him with two spoken things, requesting to hear things he knew he would be killed for uttering. Maybe not killed, but at least removed from Honeyhold and that'd be worse.

"You're mistaken," he says it softly, shifting his weight from foot to foot then stepping closer, "I can't say that because it isn't true." He brings his hands up, covering his heart with them, "I care about you. I have cared about you for as long as I have known you. I would give anything to the Nine Gods just to have and hold you because I..." words were falling out, quickly and almost without stop, "I burn for you too..." and I have loved you.

[stablelad]

𝗵𝗲'𝘀 𝗮 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘆𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱, 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗯𝗹𝘆 𝗱𝗼? ©

[stablelad]

ROYAL, FANTASY ROMANCE AND SPICE. all these quotes and sentences are taken from different sources as well some made by myself. change pronouns and places and names as you see fit. some of these are heavy with tension or sexual intention, though nothing too graphic, but you are warned some of these are full of spice and forbidden romance. if you have more suggestions, send them to me and i will add them to this post.

ACTIONS AND SCENARIOS. add +reverse to change the roles.

(royal ball): our muses dance at a royal ball. 

(captive in the tower): sender is held captive and receiver helps save them.

(arranged marriage): our muses are thrown together into an arranged marriage.

(childhood betrothal): arranged to wed since being children, our muses finally meet days before the wedding.

(ward): send is a ward at the receiver's house/home. 

(stolen kiss): sender kisses receiver before a battle, away from prying eyes.

(mystery knight): sender is unknown at court and receiver wants to know them further.

(secrets): our muses are together in a secret relationship as their families wouldn’t approve. 

(brother’s keeper): sender is receiver’s brother's best friend. Sender has been harboring a crush since they met.

(taken): sender is taken prisoner by receiver on their ship at sea after a shipwreck.

(horse ride): there is only one horse trope, our muses have to ride together.

(guard): sender is made receiver’s guard and they have to travel/spend time together.

(no one is here to help): receiver is taken to sender as their captive.

(aftermath): after a battle/war, sender and receiver reunite thinking the other was dead. 

(my prince): sender falls for receiver, who is the realm’s prince/princess.

(tourney): sender gives the receiver their favor during a tournament.

(piece of me): sender ties a piece of cloth on receiver’s hand to wrap around a wound.

(you left): sender left receiver years ago, now reunited, receiver is upset.

(last kiss): unsure if they will see each other again, sender kisses the receiver before distracting enemies so receiver can escape.

(under my protection): sender proclaims himself receiver’s protector while receiver is traveling/captive.

(starcrossed): our muses find out they have to marry other people and they reunite at night.

(we were in love once): our muses were together in a relationship in their youth and now see each other after years.

(my castle is yours): sender pledges their castle as a fortress to keep the receiver safe.

(gentle touch): sender heals the receiver of their wounds and inevitably grows close.

(magic): receiver is a being of magical properties and sender finds themselves enthralled by them.

(my paramour): receiver becomes sender’s mistress.

(the bane of my existence): our muses never got along and yet, they harbor feelings for one another after a heated argument.

(maze): our muses lose their guards in a maze and they find each other alone.

(it was always you): our muses are childhood friends about to get married.

(to make peace): from opposite houses, our muses are now married to bring peace.

(corner): behind a corner of the great hall, sender corners receiver after seeing them dance with someone else.

(advisor): receiver works as an advisor for sender, despite objection around court.

(rags to riches): receiver is a bastard now made legitimate and people around the realm came to meet them. Sender is one of them.

(at your service): receiver is a lady in waiting/personal guard to sender’s sibling and a romance develops.

(saved): sender is saved by receiver, who is a healer/witch.

SENTENCES AND QUOTES:

“You are enough to drive a saint to madness or a king to his knees.”

“He didn't marry you to become king. He became king because he wanted to marry you.”

“Little by little, the old world crumbled, and not once did the king imagine that some of the pieces might fall on him.”

“I want you—but I don’t want this."

“Rule with the heart of a servant. Serve with the heart of a king.”

“There’s a fine line between gossip and history, when one is talking about kings.”

“I will not share you."

“Well, princess, let’s see what you’re made of.”

“She added the flowers and incense to help mask your own scent.”

“Your eyes betray you. Your body even responds to mine no matter that you’re angry. You want me.”

“He is my ruin. My complete and utter devastation.”

“Just how long have you been sticking it to the girl who’s like a little sister to us?”

“There’s a certain sort of beauty in submission.”

“My story hasn’t been written yet, but I know it begins with you.”

“You will love this man. Do you understand? You will love him, serve him, and obey him in all things. This is your duty to me and to France. Am I clear?’

“She didn’t need a man. She wanted one.”

“Your wish is my command, my queen.”

“It is legal because I wish it.”

“Rejection is an opportunity for your selection.”

“She's magic, Cassandra. A single flower blooming in an endless desert.”

“Do you really want to put yourself through this? Is loving me really enough to endure everything you have to just to be with me?"

“Make no mistake.You are under my protection now, and I protect what is mine.”

“But perhaps, when you sleep, you will dream of me."

“I cannot come with you, my prince.”

“This woman was consuming him, bit by bit.”

“Call him. Claim him. Speak his Name. Make him thine before all others.”

“You are the harbor of my soul’s journeying.”

“We love what we love. We don’t need to justify it to anyone… not even to ourselves.”

“To love something despite. To know the flaws and love them too. That is rare and pure and perfect.”

“The heart is neither given nor stolen. The heart surrenders.”

“Give yourself to me.”

“I ask for so little. Just fear me, love me, do as I say and I will be your man to serve.”

“I married you to stop the bloodshed, and you keep killing. When will it be enough- when?”

“Marriage is a marriage- love or arranged. Both require the same level of commitment.”

“We are trapped by convention and must marry another.”

“We had both accepted the unwritten rule of arranged marriage: love, if it arrived at all, would bloom with time.”

“Be with me. Want me. Stay with me.I don’t know how to be without you.”

“We were doomed from the start. A lost cause. A losing battle.”

“Mr. Larsen, if you make me cry at my own coronation ball, I’ll never forgive you.”

“You are my very own forbidden fruit.”

“I’m scared, but I’d rather have one real day with you than a lifetime of misguided security.”

“And you, are mine.”

“You think a courtship and a hunt are two separate things. They are not.”

“I will share him with you, I cannot lose him.”

“Why must you resist me so dearly? When you tremble under my touch?”

“You must be made of magic itself. Your touch is warm.”

“One day, I will be able to leave you.”

“Did he touch you? Did you enjoy the way he held you across the room?”

"I will be your husband. I will take a solemn vow to protect you until death do us part. Do you understand what that means?"

“And why, pray tell, should I make it easy?'

"You are the bane of my existence--and the object of all of my desires. Night and day I dream of you."

"I did not ask for this--to be plagued by these feelings."

“I have loved you at every dance, on every walk, and every time we've been together. You must feel it in your heart, because I do."

“Because,by the time I’m done, prayer is the only thing that is going to save you.”

“Suppose I told everyone that I had seduced you.”

“You’re not planning to refuse me, are you?”

'Tell me if I do anything you don't like.”

“Say you do not care for me. Tell me you feel nothing and I will walk away.”

“I am a gentleman. My father raised me to act with honor, but that honor is hanging by a thread that grows more precarious with every moment I spend in your presence.”

“If I wed your sister, it will bind me and you together for eternity, and I will spend every day of my marriage wanting you, dreaming of you, dreading the day when my last thread of honor finally snaps.”

“I have never met anyone like you. It is maddening, how much you consume my very being.”

“That scent. It has remained imprinted on my mind ever since that night of the conservatory ball on that terrace. Lilies.”

“I desire you. I burn for you. I can't sleep at night because I want you."

“You’re the center of a star, and the force of gravity keeps pulling me closer, and I don’t give a damn that I’m about to be incinerated.“

“Whatever bad thing happened to you, it hasn’t made you less beautiful. There’s beauty in darkness, too.”

“I belong to you. Only you…I’ll always be yours. No matter what.”

[stablelad]

The smell is rancid, but he knows he can't stop. He must make it back to the Fairy Queen in one piece with the skin suit worn by the troll. A troll he had slain with a sword he had no reason to ever know how to use, but he was gifted the weapon. A special blade that when held by him and him alone he could wield it like a true swordsman. It did not make him invincible though, it did not stop him from being hurt and that was shown with the way his left hand cupped tightly at his side. Blood staining his clothing and palm from trying to apply pressure to a gashing wound. But he couldn't stop to tend it, couldn't give it time to bleed further in a state of sitting still. He had to make it back with what he had to retrieve or Lucy and would be lost forever.

It was nearing sundown when he finally reached that clearing, heaving and panting with exhaustion from both a battle well fought and a travel too long. He pulls the sack from his back, dropping it to the ground near the roots of the oak towering over him. He stands there staring at it, right hand now free as he waits for anything to be said. He starts to feel faint, frustration starting to boil in his tired frame but he bites it back in wait. You mustn't ever rush a God.

❛ well done. ❜

His breath catches at @fallbefore's voice, eyes shutting as he feels his knees start to shake. He's did it. He's made it back. He's here, he can rest. He can-- "Please... bring her back to me." Lucy. He had to stay alive long enough to see her and that she's back. That she's breathing and walking this earth. He cannot die until he knows. But it doesn't stop his knees from giving out, falling before the great oak with eyes still closed and head slowly hanging despite his will and desire to live just even a few moments longer. He needed aid, but this... this was all he wanted from this. He wasn't going to leave until he was sure and even then he may not hae the strength.

[stablelad]

Michael knew he was being a fool. If anyone caught @sillygorl going to the stables and him arriving soon after... anyone could gossip. Plenty of people would. The cooks, the gardeners, the cleaning services, the whatever the Griswalds had hired-- anyone would sell them out for less than a crisp bill just to ruin someone's day. It wasn't that he had enemies within the Honeyhold ranch and he didn't believe Lucy did either, but secrets sold.

Regardless of all that he still arrived as he normally did, ten minutes to six with a container of small muffins. His father had made them the night before for the morning and had ensured his son took some before heading out, the older Northcott arriving closer to eight. He used to arrive with Michael, but as he got older and his joints stiffer-- his son insisted he come later and leave early. It didn't bother Michael any. He enjoyed his time with the horses and being at the ranch, enjoyed the busy work too. And now it was coming in handy because when he stepped into the stables he was greeted by the sight of Lucy leaning against a stall door.

He pauses in the open doors of the stables, dark hues flickering along her frame then settling back onto her face. He knows he should say something before he even closes the distance between them, but he can't help himself from reaching behind him to slide the door shut. As it takes away some of the light glow of the sun outside he moves closer to her, smiling as he picks up the pace. The moment he's close enough he's tossing the Tupperware of muffins onto the shelf outside the stall she's leaning against. His hands quickly grab her hips the second they're free, drawing her in and tilting his head so their lips can meet. It takes seconds for his mouth to form to hers, moving and dancing along hers in a melody that was fit perfect for them.

He can hear cars driving onto the property, others looking to start their days on the Honeyhold ranch but he doesn't dare break away. He knows they have until someone slides that door open to pull apart, but it doesn't make his heart race any less. He's anxious as he kisses her, but he can't stop. He'd rather risk it all than lose this chance again for who knows how long.

a risky kiss between forbidden lovers .

[stablelad]

can we discuss what happened between us?

The voice comes from behind him as he's pushing hay around the stall trying to get it laid out for the family's newest mare. He turns to find Lucy stood there, @sillygorl looking sheepish in a way he wasn't used to seeing on her. But he couldn't fault her. He felt that way as he looked at her, recalling far too well the last they'd been together. A kiss shared between them, but not something soft and chaste-- it was hungry, needy, wanton. It hadn't taken long for it turn into something far more heated, Lucy crawling onto his lap as they sat beneath the oak near the glen. It hadn't lasted too long before they heard Justine calling for her, the golden blonde bouncing away with barely an apology for having to go.

His dark eyes fell across her frame and he had to swallow a breath in order to find his voice, "I don't think we have to." He turns to face her fully, hand settling on his hip and other curling tightly around the pitchfork he'd been using to lay hay. "It would be probably best if we didn't, right?" His heart was racing in his chest, face trying to pull a grin despite the way his body screamed for him to respond differently, "It was nothing to speak about or even... think on," now he was rambling, his nerves running faster than the thumping of his heart, "What is there to say about it, Lady Lucy?"

[stablelad]

PRE ESTABLISHED RELATIONSHIP PROMPTS *  assorted dialogue to help set up already existing relationships between your muses and give them past scenarios to reference, adjust as necessary

CHILDHOOD BEST FRIENDS

we were only kids back then. we didn't know any better.

you promised me we'd be friends forever.

you've changed quite a bit since i saw you last.

how are your parents doing? will you tell them i said hi?

i've known you for years, and you haven't changed a bit.

you've always been like this.

remember the last time this happened?

sure, i made a lot of mistakes, but so did you.

do you remember how we met?

you always stood up for me, no matter what.

i've always had a lot of love in my heart for you.

when i was struggling, you were always there for me.

I TOLD YOU TO STAY AWAY

i thought i told you to stay away.

you've got a lot of nerve, showing your face around here again.

i really don't want to see you again.

you're supposed to call and warn me before you show up here.

there's never going to be a "next time."

this is the last time you show up like this.

last time i said i never wanted to see you again, and yet here you are.

you can't just show up here unannounced.

you remember what happened the last time you showed up.

every time you show up here, shit hits the fan.

you're putting us all in danger by showing up here.

don't you have somewhere else to be?

ROMANTIC FEELINGS

i'm sorry, but i can't stop thinking about you.

after the time we spent together, you've been on my mind.

can we discuss what happened between us?

the last time i saw you, you were going to say something... and then you stopped.

did you mean it? any of it?

i wish we were still together.

would you go on another date with me?

it's hard to deny how you make me feel.

you've always had an effect on me.

i can't stop thinking about the way you look at me.

GENERIC "I'VE KNOWN YOU FOR A WHILE"

do you remember what you told me?

i can't believe this is happening to us again.

the last time this happened, we were better prepared.

i tried calling you a hundred times, but you never answered.

this was never supposed to end like this.

didn't you see my text?

i know you better than anyone else.

you can't lie to me. i can tell when you're lying.

you're making "the face" again.

you promised me you'd stop doing that.

[stablelad]

His heart flutters in his chest at the smirk she wears, dark eyes flickering along her face. He knows he shouldn't fall into this, knows if he's caught away from the stables for too long he'll hear it from not only his father. But maybe even the Lord himself. Michael was a stableboy. He was nothing more than a man meant to shovel horse shit, brush their manes, and polish their saddles. He wasn't meant to go running off with the daughter of the house. It didn't matter if they'd used to.

"I..." he looks over his shoulder at where he'd left his pitchfork resting in some hay in an open stall. He sniffs a breath and brings his gaze to her, "I shouldn't be gone long from my duties." No, he should be saying no, "I mean... I shouldn't leave, Lady Lucy." The formalities were there often and normally. He rarely called her just by name... in fact he couldn't remember the last time he did. "If my father returns from the market and I'm not here or your father catches me with you..."

she knew he was busy. everyone was busy all the time. since growing up, that seemed to be all there was. a never ending to-do list. maybe that's why her father was so shut up all the time in his office or away on his 'work trips.' no, she knew what those were about. politicking, sure, but she had known of the woman that had brought her eldest brother into the world. she knew her father would pay her visits still, though she tried not to dwell on that thought for too long.

" no, " she answered honestly, though her blushed lips twisted into a smirk as she gave a head of golden curls a tip. " but that's always part of the fun, isn't it? " at least, it used to be.

[stablelad]

Michael stood with a chalice in hand, grip on it as tight as it could get without hurting his fingers. He'd been listening to the Prince talk for the better half of the last thirty minutes or so. @forwardmoved on an endless rant about the women of Honeyhold. He'd started by talking about the Lady Griswald, saying both unsavory and terrible things about her that made Michael shift uncomfortably. He had mumbled his way through that, but he wasn't too sure how his composure faired when the royal began to speak of the sisters. It had ignited something inside of him, but he wasn't one to fight. He wasn't one to draw attention to himself and he knew better than do so in this moment... especially with the likes of the Prince. It was one thing to correct a bannerman (though risky), but to silence the Prince? He wouldn't dare. Even as he went on a journey discussing whatever curve he could make from Lucy in the gown she wore. Michael's Lucy. He tried his best to force a grin through it, unaware of whether it showed in his gaze how badly he wished to be gone from the conversation. Maybe that's what led him to drifting off in thought, tuning out what was being said up until a question was spoken in his direction. The trail of it catching him to warn his attention was needed.

what do you think? now that you know what i am?

The questions repeat in his head, drawing him to the sudden realization that this was all started upon the Prince asking whether Michael was familiar with him beyond the title. He'd said he couldn't say beyond the stories he's heard from those around the village and in Honeyhold. How the Prince went from whatever point he was making to talking about the women of Honeyhold... Michael didn't know. Unless-- oh. Oh. "Oh you mean--" he fastens a grin to his face, forcing words to come out as cordial as he can muster, "Why, my prince, I don't think I've ever heard anyone talk with such brevity about the women here. I'm sure it'll be impossible for them to avoid your charming ways, sire. Though I doubt you care my thoughts further on what you already know."

[stablelad]

read and love Michael’s dossier—

[stablelad]

It was getting riskier and riskier every time they went about doing anything together. A ticking time bomb before it was all over Honeyhold that he and Lady Lucy were entangled in more ways than one. He hadn't meant for it to get as carried away as it had, but he loved her. He'd loved her since they were children running barefoot through fields and trees. He would give everything and all to be with her, but her father would never allow it. He'd sooner see her a beggar in the street than wed to the likes of Michael-- not that he knew the two were together often. Yet. It didn't matter that she'd come back from the dead and saved Michael's grieving heart... she was still wound tight in her father's grasp.

Today he'd accompanied the sisters into the village with a bannerman he was friends with, one who was more than certain the girls would be safe at Michael's side if he were to get a drink of ale. He'd assured his friend the two would be safe then waved him off before his hand was grasped by Lucy, yanking him away and through the crowd. They hadn't gotten far before finding somewhere to duck into, lips immediately begging to find the other's. He whispered his affections between those kisses, reminding her that he loved her and that one day they'd be free of this place. They'd get away.

From where they'd ducked into he could see above her and into the crowds of the market, catching sight of Justine's bright blonde hair and signature pink dress. He hadn't been as careful to keep an eye on her as he had Lucy, but he felt the older sister of the two knew why. She wasn't blind to it... to them. She knew something was going on and transpiring between the two, but that didn't mean he should be careless to keep an eye on her. He had nearly looked away when he saw her whip around on someone, expression frustrated. His smiling lips tugged down into a frown and he gently moved around Lucy, telling her to remain there.

As he got closer he could make out some of the words, but didn't care to think on any of it. Instead stepping himself between the two, back close to Justine to keep her guarded from the drunken man. Michael couldn't say he recognized the man, but from the look in his eyes it was clear he had an eye for the girl behind him. His stomach fluttered nervously at the idea of a confrontation-- he would fight on behalf of either Griswald girl, but he was not a fighter. He was not a swordsman. He was a stable boy.

mikey...

The nickname draws him from what he's starting to think is going to be a bigger problem. He nods his head, eyes never leaving the man out of uncertainty that he won't jump if he turns his back. So instead he reaches his hand up to gently curl around Justine's, drawing her with as he steps to the side and towards the direction Lucy would be waiting. He speaks in the man's direction, "I hope you find happiness not at the bottom of a bottle, sir!" He tips his head and spins as they mesh into the crowd. His hand gives hers a squeeze as he leads her, shoulders relaxing and tension slowly leaving him.

𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞  𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝  𝐧𝐨  𝐦𝐚𝐧  𝐭𝐨  𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞  𝐭𝐨  𝐡𝐞𝐫  𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞  𝐨𝐫  𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭  𝐡𝐞𝐫  𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫.  she  need  not  protection  —  not  from  a  sword  &  shield  nor  by  tongue  &  declarations.  for  justine  was  well  equipped  in  the  latter  -  weapons  capable  of  destruction  which  left  no  physical  marks  or  wounds,  which  left  no  tangible  evidence  of  the  impact  of  their  blows.  

𝚊  𝚠𝚎𝚊𝚙𝚘𝚗  𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚌𝚑  𝚑𝚎𝚛  𝚎𝚚𝚞𝚒𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚍  𝚝𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚞𝚎  𝚠𝚒𝚎𝚕𝚍𝚎𝚍  𝚝𝚘𝚍𝚊𝚢  𝚊𝚝  𝚝𝚑𝚎  𝚖𝚊𝚛𝚔𝚎𝚝.  @stablelad  and  lucy  had  accompanied  her,  scampering  off  together  with  hushed  giggles  that  had  caused  justine’s  eyes  to  roll  fondly  —  shouting  after  them  to  be  careful  before  continuing  her  stroll  through  the  market.

with  the  basket  handle  nestled  in  the  crook  of  her  arm,  justine  had  strolled  through  the  various  vendor  booths,  𝚎𝚡𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚐𝚒𝚗𝚐  𝚜𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚕  𝚝𝚊𝚕𝚔  𝚕𝚒𝚔𝚎  𝚌𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚜  𝚜𝚑𝚎  𝚞𝚜𝚎𝚍  𝚝𝚘  𝚙𝚞𝚛𝚌𝚑𝚊𝚜𝚎  𝚝𝚑𝚎  𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚜  𝚊𝚗𝚍  𝚏𝚛𝚞𝚒𝚝𝚜.  for  the  most  part,  the  vendors  and  passersby  were  kind  and  polite.  ever  since  their  dear  ella’s  rise  to  queen,  villagers  were  kinder  overall.  that  truth  made  itself  known  in  the  fact  that  most  made  no  comment  about  〝  the  undead  griswald  sisters  〞  —  𝒂  𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆  𝒘𝒉𝒊𝒄𝒉  𝒘𝒂𝒔  𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒅  𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅  𝒕𝒉𝒆  𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒈𝒆  𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆  𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒔  𝒅'𝒐𝒆𝒖𝒗𝒓𝒆𝒔  𝒂𝒕  𝒂  𝒓𝒐𝒚𝒂𝒍  𝒈𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈.  

a  title  which  was  shouted  at  her  by  the  grating  voice  of  one  of  the  town  drunks.

′  oy!  ′  he  followed  it  with.  ′  dead  bitch!  ′  

justine  had  attempted  to  ignore  him,  breathing  in  through  her  nose  and  exhaling  through  her  mouth  in  order  to  remain  calm.  but  then  —  

′  where’s  that  bitch  sister  o’yours,  huh?  thinks  she’s  so  good  —  thinks  she’s  too  good  for  me,  does  she?!  ′

justine  whirled  around  on  the  spot.  her  gaze  cold  as  ice,  her  knuckles  white  as  trembling  hands  clenched  the  handle  of  her  wicker  basket.  ′  you  keep  my  sister's  name  out  of  your  filthy  mouth,  you  rotten scoundrel.  ′  she  snapped.  his  eyes  had  narrowed,  and  he  staggered  towards  her.  

′  what  about  you  then  huh?  think  you’re  too  good  for  me  too eh?  i’ll  show  you. i'll show you  both  —  ′  

justine  needed  no  man  to  come  to  her  defense  or  protect  her  honor.  but  michael  was  no  mere  man.  he  was  her  brother,  a  title  that  better  suited  him  than  it  did  jacob.  

eyes  flit  nervously  to  the  man  before  they  land  back  on  michael,  who  now  stood  between  them,  shielding  her.  ❛  mikey,  ❜  she  says,  𝐚  𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞  𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦  𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫  𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝  𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭  𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥  𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝  𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞  𝐨𝐧  𝐡𝐞𝐫  𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐞  —  𝐧𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐢𝐚  𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠  𝐢𝐭  𝐚𝐬  𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭  𝐚𝐬  𝐭𝐡𝐞  𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬  𝐬𝐡𝐞  𝐡𝐚𝐝  𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝.  she  places  a  hand  on  his  arm,  giving  his  bicep  a  small  squeeze  as  if  to  plead  without  words.  ❛  it’s  alright.  he’s  nothing  more  than  a  drunkard.  prithee,  michael,  let’s  go.  ❜  

[stablelad]

meet me in the castle gardens tonight, after the sun sets.

@sillygorl had said it before she left for the Ashmore estate, hand wrapped around his and other cupping the back of his neck. Their lips had been inches away from each other, a close proximity between their forms. The stables had been empty beyond them and the horses, minus two for the carriage to carry her and Justine away. His father and a few other shad been tending to that as Michael was busy. He'd slipped away when his father wasn't looking, Lucy doing the same with her own. She had to leave at any given moment, but the two couldn't stop catching each other in a kiss that would leave the other speechless and breathless. When she had been yelled for by her father there had been that whisper, a command... a promise. something he was quick to mutter 'as you wish' in response to before they shared a short kiss.. slipping away from each other.

He had ridden out near sunset, riding fast with a thudding heart of uncertainty. He didn't know what she was planning by having him come. He wouldn't even be allowed into the castle, he'd have to somehow get into the garden unseen and pray she'd find him. He wasn't made out to be at a ball and if anyone caught him... well, he was sure the king wouldn't be happy about it. This was an event for the prince to court and find his future bride... not a place for jealous lovers or wanton companions.

He'd managed to climb his way into the gardens, finding a place to tie his horse off beforehand. He wandered through the maze until he found an overhang with rose vines up the sides, eyes flicking around with a nervous breath leaving his lips. Guards could be anywhere... and again, he didn't look the part of a lord or have a reason to be there. Women, their mothers, and some fathers were about... but he? This was so foolish, this was so dangerous--

SNAP!

His head jerks to the side to look in the direction of the noise, breath catching as he watches in wait. He spots the orange of a gown before the golden blonde curls of a woman he was all too familiar with. "Lucy..." he breathes her name out and quickly closes the distance between them, dashing forward and getting his arms around her. He lifts her from the ground, spinning her once then settling her down so he can place a chaste kiss to her lips. When he draws back he speaks softly in a whisper, "I must be mad doing this. Do you any idea what the guards will do to the likes of me if I'm caught?"

[stablelad]

He listens to her woes, frown fighting to take over his calm expression. He hates hearing all that, hates thinking about her in whatever world she was being told she needed to be in. She had her own dreams, her own aspirations.. he'd heard plenty of them growing up. Now? He was lucky to hear anything she had to share, lucky to be given the time to be in the same bubble as her. He missed the days where he was constantly in it, kids innocent to the world and the duties they'd have. She'd have. Michael? He was free to do as he wished... mostly.

He felt his expression changing as she asked her question, heart leaping and jumping up his throat. His stomach fluttered to life with butterflies and he pushed his hip off the door to stand straighter. He pulled his hand from the mare and curled both at his side. His thumbs rubbing at the sides of his indexes, fidgeting nervously at the way she smirked at him.

"Right now?" He looks over his shoulder, eyes landing on the few stalls of horses. He had some more grooming to do, but his father would be back soon. He'd take over. Michael could make it up to him-- he always did, "You think that's a good idea?"

a quiet breath exhales sharply from her nose as a mild form of a laugh at his question. eyebrows twitch upwards momentarily as her gaze drops to the gold flats that were peaking from underneath her autumn shaded dress. when was her father not disappointed in her? she was constantly being scolded for reading too much, for saying too much, for being too much. she'd rather choke than sit idly by as simply someone's wife. disgusting.

" i'm not getting any younger, and he's panicking because i should be elbow deep in my litter of offspring by now, " she snorted a breath and shook her head, her nose wrinkling at the thought. " i'm just . . . holding onto the days where i can run out to the fields without having to answer to anyone . . . "

she paused for a moment before her blushed lips twitched into a light smirk, turning her gaze towards his direction. " speaking of . . . would you be interested in sneaking away? i'll only keep you for a little while this time . . . " the intentions were true but never guaranteed with lucy.

[stablelad]

The kingdom was in dire need of rain, but he hadn't expected to be caught out in it with @sillygorl when it came crashing down. The two of them had been on their way back from the village nearby, both tending to different small errands for their fathers. There had been some pushback from Lord Griswald when Michael had said he could ride alongside his daughter, ensure she made it home safe and back with everything he had needed of her to get. It took his father, Luca, vouching for him to get the Lord to nod and grumble with a wave of his hand. It had prickled at Michael's skin, but he knew better than to let it get to him. He wouldn't last a moment's breath in a fight with the Lord's best swordsman who Michael was sure would be the one brandishing a sword. So he stayed quiet, choosing instead to focus on the ride into the village.

The rain had come in the journey halfway home, falling quick and heavy from the sky. Their horses had protested it some and he knew the roads would get slick from it, mud grabbing and holding tight to the horses. He'd led them off the path and into the trees, hoping to get them out from the direct line of rain. It was as he was tying the reins to trees that he noticed Lucy no longer at his side, frantic motions spinning him until he spotted her standing just past the tree line. Her head was back and her eyes were closed, rain peppering her skin and drenching her even further. He called to her, but she didn't move.

He let out a sigh and jogged over, coming to a stop beside her and gently taking hold of her bicep. He gave it a small tug and she looked up at him, blinking large browns at him that made his heart stir and his stomach flutter. He shouldn't let that feeling bubble inside him, but he can't help it and he knows the longer he stares at her the more dangerous of a feeling it becomes. He tried to say something, tried to speak against the rain and the low rumblings of thunder but his voice falls silent. His hand readjusted on her arm and his other reached up to push at loose locks of hair that had fallen. He isn't sure how the next few moments worked out or who really moved first, but there was something in the stare.. something in the warmth of the rain.

Their lips crashed together as thunder shook the ground, hands desperately grasping at one another's soaked clothing to hold the other as close as possible. He's sure he can feel her heart beating through the layers, but he can't be certain it's not his own. He tilts his head into the kiss, mouth working along hers in a gentle but hungry need. This isn't their first kiss... no, but it was just as forbidden as the rest.

sharing a kiss in a heavy downpour of rain .

[stablelad]

Everyone in Honeyhold was aware of the dynamics that floated around the family, especially when the Lord was defied by either of his daughters... not that the eldest made it habit to. His youngest? Michael wanted to defend her when she was spoken about, wanted to cut in and tell whoever that they didn't understand. Lucy wasn't defiant... she was a dreamer. She saw the world differently, looked at it with bright eyed wonder and excitement-- daring excitement. She was a fluttering butterfly floating from place to place without anyone able to catch her. He'd seen many try since she'd come of age... all suitors picked and shoved on her by her father. It was rare that he wasn't trying to find someone for the girl, rare for her to be without a suitor at her side... especially these days. It seemed the lord was growing impatient that his daughters were not yet wed.

Michael knew he should never speak up when the Lord is about. His father had made that clear to him. The man looked down on them despite the years of care and trust Griswald put on his father with the family horses. It didn't matter that they cared for these beautiful creatures. All that mattered was that at the end of the day? He shoveled shit like most of the peasants in the kingdom. He would never amount to someone that the Lord would consider for Lucy... because yes, Gods yes did he want to be a suitor. He wanted to court her, hold her... kiss her. Ever since he could remember he's felt something for the Griswald girl. Be it when they were younger, running wild through the flower fields or in their current years... never finishing a conversation. He missed being young. It always felt like his hand was in hers constantly back then.

Today he'd overhead the conversation whether he wanted to or not. He'd been grooming one of the Lord's several horses when the yelling ensued. He'd wanted to look, but knew better then to draw attention to himself or what was transpiring in the stables. He had to stay quiet and wait, had to give it time before he could even brave a glance-- having waited even a few seconds longer after hearing boots storming off. What he saw was a broken girl and his voice slipped out, unable to stop the way he asked a quiet question. He didn't even know if she'd feel up to talking to him.. their conversations were usually brief, quiet, but nothing like the exuberance of their youth.

She answers as he takes in her appearance and expression, noting the way she rubbed away tears that threatened to keep falling. He swallowed a breath as she mentioned no longer seeing her most recent suitor. Amos. He hadn't known his name, but he was glad to suddenly hear it. Glad to know another hadn't worked out, but this wasn't a moment to celebrate. Instead he steps a little closer only to lean his side into a stable door, a brown chestnut mare sticking her head over the edge. He brings a hand up to rub at her nose, offering Lucy a gentle smile, "Do you want to talk about all that or just the part where your dad is disappointed?"

her father's scolding, albeit hissed, still echoed against the stony stable walls loud enough to earn a few whinnies in response. he had caught his youngest child on her way to the stables, where most of her morning adventures started. lucy would visit her prized mare and make it a point to say hello to michael at whatever stage of work he had found himself in that morning. her father knew that his daughter would rather dawdle than do anything productive with herself . . . and he also knew that her making it to the stables meant the window was closing before she'd disappear until dinnertime. off to some meadow or to visit a friend. anywhere but to find a husband, much to his dismay.

that was why he was angry. she had been courted by a fellow from windkeep. she barely remembered his name despite going out with him a couple of times. adam? no . . . amos! amos henny. he was . . . fine, she supposed. that was the problem. she didn't want 'fine.' she wanted 'great.' legendary. breathtaking. and every man her father had presented her with over the years had some sort of excuse ailment that she'd shoo them away for. bad breath, being one minute late to breakfast, speaking too much about sporting. one by one they were quickly dismissed. amos had gotten the same treatment the night before when she told him that she couldn't marry a man who wore brown socks with black trousers. clearly, her father must have gotten word from an angry lord henny at that.

his hands gripped at his daughter's biceps and gave her a jolt of a shake to accentuate the point he was barking at her. you are a silly girl who will be nothing more than a headache to whatever man settles for you. i will throw you on the streets before i allow you to become a spinster in my own home, you hear me? you will not embarrass this family.

he straightened up after the scolding to soften and brush a hand over her curls before he walked away from the stables, leaving her there stunned. she felt a shift in her stomach and a heaviness in her chest as she lifted her eyes to blink back the tears that had welled up in them. she was so tired of everything being so damn serious.

she hadn't heard the steps, so when a soft, familiar voice sounded, she nearly jumped out of her skin.

" hey. want to talk about it? "

she looked over at who spoke with wide eyes, her hand coming up to rest over the knot within her chest. with a hard swallow, she lowered her gaze and lifted her hand to quickly swipe at her cheek. she knew she could cover it up, but @stablelad wouldn't be making reference to ' it ' without having overheard at least part of the conversation.

" i'm sure you're busy, " she covered with a quiet exhale of a laugh, pausing for a moment. she knew that wouldn't be good enough. closing her eyes, a sigh released with the next breath. " i ended things with amos henny last night. i told him i didn't wish to see him again. "