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[wcndvrlxst]

In her haste to receive her breakfast, Cecile had managed to completely overlook precisely whom she was speaking to. When the familiar voice permeated the silence left following her own commentary, the Princess' head snapped up, eyes landing directly upon Freyja. "It is you. Good morning, Freyja. Are you well? How was your sleep?" She asked, gathering her goblet and plate in order to shift into the seat the other had indicated. Cecile couldn't help the smile engulfing her features- seeing the other always did seem to have that effect on her, even in the most interesting of situations. Once settled Cecile glanced around, giggling lightly as she nodded her agreement. "I must admit, I believe you are correct in that assessment. No matter, however. I am grateful for the opportunity to steal your attention." Her smile shifted into something more akin to a smirk, her eyes trained on Freyja's from across the table. "That we do, yes. It has been far longer than I am comfortable with. Tell me, what have I missed? How are you faring here, darling?"

Freyja had grown used to the early mornings spent by herself. She found it far easier in the camp to rise with the sun as the glowing orb always managed to find a way of casting light into her tent. Now she had to request that all of the curtains not be drawn so that the sunlight would find its way through the windows of her chamber. Knowing the others would be asleep for another hour or so still, Freyja dressed herself and made her way to the dining hall. Early as she was the scullery maids and cooks always managed to wake before her. They had brought bread to the table and a large pitcher of mead shortly after she arrived. Freyja thanked them and helped herself so they would not be delayed in their duties. The Swedish princess sat quietly by herself for a time before she was joined by another. Looking up, she smiled at her friend that she had not seen for quite some time now. "If the surprised expressions of the scullery maids are anything to go off of, I suspect we are slightly earlier than they expected," Freyja chuckled. She gestured to the spot across from her at the table. "Please, join me. We have much to catch up on."

[wcndvrlxst]

The moment she turned and her eyes fell upon the horse Amara started, understanding immediately the error she had made. Once the hood was dropped by the approaching woman, the Lady's understanding was confirmed as she took in the face of the very Queen she served. "Your Majesty, my apologies." She offered dipping formally into it. "And, my sincerest apologies to you, Enbarr." Raising a hand, Amara gently patted the horse's snout. "I know that to be true, ma'am, and I thank you both for the fact." Amara replied, still occupying her hands and gaze with patting Enbarr. Once the question came she nodded, finally turning to fact the other. "Of course Your Majesty, I would appreciate that very much." Gesturing for the Queen to follow Amara turned to lead them back towards the spot she had been sitting. "The weather has yet to turn- today, at least. I thought it prudent to enjoy the view and peace once more lest that change by tomorrow. Might I ask your plans for the afternoon?"

Meabh had taken Enbarr out for a ride around the land near the lochs on one of the rare, less rainy days. They had dismissed their ladies for the day so that they could spend the good weather doing whatever they pleased. As she neared the shore of one of the lochs, she saw a figure. Slowing her mare's pace to a trot as she approached. It wasn't until they got a bit closer that they recognized the figure as Amara. The Queen of Connacht slowed her horse to a halt before dismounting. Meabh pulled their hood from their head and turned toward her lady. "I think Enbarr is slightly offended you did not recognize her," Meabh teased. "I assure you, though, you are safe with the two of us." She led the horse closer to Amara. "Do you mind if we join you?"

[wcndvrlxst]

It took Cecile a few moments to take in precisely whom had entered the library. Since arriving in Scotland the Princess had been exerting her best effort to memorize everyone's name and title, though with so many in attendance the task seemed insurmountable at times. After a moment, her mind began to work slowly, and she soon realized that she was speaking with one of the English nobles. "Excellent. I shall do my best not to disturb." She added. Before Cecile could return to her book, the question drew her attention. It was one the Princess had always thoroughly enjoyed being asked- being asked to recommend a book was something of an honor in her world and mind. After a few moments, the replied. "Of course, yes. Congratulations Sir, you have managed to position yourself in the middle of what I personally would reference as 'the greats'." Smiling, she ran her fingertips gently over the spine of a nearby book before continuing. "Tell me, have you read Canterbury Tales?"

the last few days had left nathaniel restless to say the least. he took no pleasure in leaving adam for any small amount of time, but he'd been left with kitty to watch over him and he'd no intention of being gone long. he couldn't focus on the scattered paperwork on his desk, instead he'd opted for picking up a few books to take them back to his room where he could sit, read and keep an eye on adam from the side of the bed. it wasn't much, but it was the least he could do while his fiance needed his rest.

" oh you're not, " nathaniel shot her a smile as he approached the shelves full of books and started to scan them intently. he was probably not in the most approachable of moods, but he had no intentions of being unpleasent. " would you recommend any of these? "

[wcndvrlxst]

Under most any other circumstance Cecile might have found slight offense in being touched without explicit permission being given, though under the current circumstances she could bring herself to be nothing other than grateful. Utilizing the support given, the Princess righted herself and steadied her feet, nodding once she'd managed to return to her center. "You are far too gracious, kind Sir." Arching her own eyebrow in return, her gaze remained fixed on the one she'd managed to collide with. "Though, I am calmed knowing I have not broken you. The reassurance is appreciated, I might not have been able to sleep otherwise." There was a tone of sarcasm lacing the edges of her voice, though it was all in a teasing spirit. "I am quite alright, yes. Physically, at the very least. Though, perhaps you can be of assistance. Do you happen to possess any knowledge of whether there is a seamstress nearby? Or, on the premises?"

gentle hands shoot up to the sides of her arms to steady the rushing woman who unsurprisingly been the cause of their collision - he smiles politely, one eyebrow arched in what at least resembles amusement, and then drops his hands. he doesn't recognise her, per se, but royal "please, don't worry about it, my lady," he assures her, voice characteristically calm and words laced with a familiar confidence that he in actuality might have no right to. "i do not break quite so easily - are you alright?"

[wcndvrlxst]

Stepping closer to the other Cecile cocked her head, prompting a curtain of her long hair to fall, obscuring her face just a bit. She had asked what she had in hopes of gaining clarity on the individual's initial commentary, though it seemed the answers she had received had served to clear nothing. Nodding slowly, the Princess worked to put together some semblance of a coherent response. "I cannot say I am necessarily the type to believe in curses, perhaps that is where our disconnect can be found. Though I may take you up on your suggestion still, if for no other reason than a clear mind and soothed body would be far more than useful, especially during this time." Raising an eyebrow, she nodded slowly as her eyes fell to the bag the other seemed to be fiddling with. "Carus." She repeated slowly, narrowing her eyes slightly, though not in a malicious manner. "It is a pleasure, in that case." Extending a hand, she dipped slowly into a curtsey. "I am Cecile Van Wieren, Princess of Frisia." Glancing around, she added, "are you seeking solitude, or would you welcome company?"

carus raised an eyebrow, appraising the other for a moment. the other dressed well, clothes well made and clearly expensive. a royal, most likely. when the other claims to not understand what a hot bath might cure, he laughs. "i am unsurprised you do not see the merits of a hot bath, your highness. such an opinion seems...entirely too common. but i think you will find it quite useful. it calms the mind, cleanses not only the body but the heart. if one believes in something like curses, it is the best remedy i know." he's toeing a line and he knows it, but he's plenty used to getting away with more than he should. his hands fiddle with the small bag he keeps on his person, and he shrugs. "i'm called many things." he says easily, regarding the person as he dances around the point. "you may call me carus. i am tasked by the roman emperor and empress to tend and heal." he should be telling the other of his partner, but he cannot. he keeps toni close to his heart, safe, where they have resided since long before.

[wcndvrlxst]

Cecile's eyes moved over the other, with the hope that her distance would not allow the fact to be given away. Despite her status as betrothed, there was no way around the fact that the Princess found the King to be quite stunning, a fact only punctuated by his current appearance. It was not a thought she would care to ever act upon, though she saw no harm in admiring the other as one might admire a fine art piece.

It was obvious King Marius did not wish to converse further about what they were both aware had occurred, a fact Cecile could pick up easily. Nodding as the other spoke, the Princess was grateful for his warning, ultimately. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I will certainly avoid that area." Taking a small step forward, Cecile returned his smile warmly before glancing briefly out across the water "Oh, in truth I hadn't quite decided. I have not been gone long, however, and I could use a bit more peace, away from all of..." She gestured towards the palace. "....That. What of yourself? Do you intend to stay?"

if she had seen him fall or only seen his recovery from the humilating incident, she didn't show it and marius found himself feeling grateful - a rariety to say the least. he was soaked through and needed to go back to the castle to change but it was a long walk and not one he wished to take until he looked a little less drenched in all the lake had offered. had it been summer he might have been pleased to take a quick dip - but not now when the water was near ice cold and threatening to freeze over.

" it is... " his words lingered in the air as he glanced down at himself and shook off the excess water from his sleeves. if they were to ignore what had just happened then so be it. they would. " forgive me, i slipped, don't step here... i wouldn't want you to take a swim as well. " he offered her a smile. " are you walking back to the castle or staying a while? "

[wcndvrlxst]

for: closed ( @1910560 )

Stepping up to the stable doors, Cecile flipped the hood of her cloak down, gathering her hair in one hand and shifting it to the right side before reaching for the handle. Opening the door, she slipped quietly inside, closing the door behind her before making her way further into the barn. The Princess had made this journey so frequently she no longer needed to count the stalls- she simply made her way directly to the one intended. Smiling, she cooed at her mare, drawing her over so that she could reach forward and pat her neck. Sensing the presence of another she paused, turning slightly to glance over her shoulder at a nearby figure. "I hope I do not disturb you. I simply could not bear another moment without greeting my girl for the morning." She said with a chuckle, turning back to Penelope. "Am I to assume you are doing the same?"

[wcndvrlxst]

for: closed ( @1910560 )

Sighing, Amara shook her head at herself in both frustration and anger. Turning, she pressed her back to the cool stone of the palace wall before bringing a hand up to rest a heel against her forehead. Hearing the shuffling footsteps of another, the Lady glanced up quickly, doing her best to pull herself together. "I beg your pardon," she began, stepping quickly forward. "Please, excuse my intrusion, however I wondered if you might be able to assist me. You see, I seem to have...Jammed the door to my quarters and I...Am in need of a personal item." Glancing at the stuck door, Amara bit into her lower lip anxiously.

[wcndvrlxst]

for: closed ( @cfdepths )

Stepping into the dining hall, Cecile strode towards the nearest empty seat, not bothering to wait before sliding in, tucking her dress under herself as she went. "Good morning." She greeted, having noticed another seated nearby upon her entry. Reaching forward, the Princess took hold of a nearby pitcher, bringing it forward to pour a bit of mead into her empty goblet. "It seems we have arrived either far too late or far, far too early- wouldn't you agree?" She teased, bringing the cup to her lips to take a long, deep drink. Inhaling, she began scanning the array of fruits and cheeses placed at the center of the dining table. "How lovely. Have you already had your fill, or were you awaiting the company of another?" Cecile asked, not wanting to come across as rude.

[wcndvrlxst]

for: closed ( @cfdepths )

Stepping into the Lochs brought both a refreshing and foreboding feeling for Amara. Naturally, she'd witnessed similar landscapes and terrain, her own home not incredibly far from Scotland itself. Still, the thrill of taking in such a sight did not cease. With the sun not yet having risen, she sought out a quiet, relatively-dry spot to lower herself to. Settling to watch the sunrise, Amara pulled her knees towards her chest, not quite bothering with trivial matters such as her posture- a fact which would have surely struck her mother's heart where she stood. Suddenly, a noise sounding from behind drew the Lady's attention, and she turned her head slowly in the direction. "Aye, who goes there?" She called, willing her voice to sound far steadier than it was.

[wcndvrlxst]

for: closed ( @gxst )

Cecile's hair bounced in-time with her rapid steps as she hurried down the castle hallway, hardly giving herself time to pivot and turn as abruptly as she had just moments ago. Her cheeks were tinted a deep pink, her lips pursed and her expression serious. In her hands she carried what appeared to be a garment, though her pace did not give much way for anyone to confirm this was in fact the case. Without looking, the Princess once again turned another sharp corner, too lost in her own purpose to stop herself before slamming directly into the body of another just on the other side. "Heavens!" She exclaimed, fingertips flying to rest at the base of her throat. "I- My apologies, I should have been more cautious of my path. Are you quite alright?"

[wcndvrlxst]

for: closed ( @0fmercy )

Since early in her childhood, Amara had been quite drawn to nature. As far back as she could remember she'd always felt more at home among the flora, fauna, and animals than any other place. Despite her training and upbringing- during which her mother seemed to be unwilling to admit defeat when it came to Amara's insistence at ruining her best dresses, shoes, and hairdos while playing outside- which tried endlessly to break her of her 'uncooth' habits, the Lady had retained her love for all things outdoors. Location no exception, one of the things Amara enjoyed the most about being in Scotland was the opportunity to feast on new scenery. Walking the gardens had become an exquisite pastime, one that the Lady ensured she partook in at least momentarily each day. Today being no exception, Amara found herself seated on an empty bench, lost in thought and in the beauty of the gardens. The sound of approaching steps drew her from her stupor, and she jumped visibly, standing quickly and smoothing her hands over her dress before speaking. "My apologies, I must have lost track of the time. Please, sit, do not allow me to disturb you."

[wcndvrlxst]

for: closed ( @0fmercy )

Since childhood libraries had provided Cecile with a sense of comfort. There had always been something so stunningly familiar about being surrounded by so much information, and pages filled with the thoughts, theories, experiences, and ideas of others. No matter where she found herself, physically or situationally, the presence of a library helped calm her anxieties, reminding that no matter what, home was never far. As such, one of the first tasks the Princess had undertaken was to locate the library within the palace. Once successful, it was somewhere she found herself visiting at least once a day, and more on occasion. Usually, the space was rather empty; she could only recall one situation in which she was not the only one utilizing the room. This morning was no different, and Cecile found herself reveling in the silence surrounding her as she worked her way through the text in her hands. Suddenly, the sound of footsteps entering drew her attention, and she raised her head slowly, offering a small smile. "Good morning. Please, do not let me disturb you."

[wcndvrlxst]

for: closed ( @gxst ) Sighing, Amara stepped from her chambers for the first time that morning, intending to check in with her Queen before seeking out a meal. Having skipped eating the previous night in favor of catching up on a few hours of desperately-needed sleep, she had awoken ravenous. Once her check on the Queen had been completed, the Lady headed for the dining hall, hoping she wouldn't arrive too late for at least some morsel of breakfast. Rounding a corner, she realized a fraction too late that she hadn't been paying much attention to where she was going, as her body collided with the solid form of another. A cry of shock escaped her throat upon impact, and once she had steadied herself she set to the task of ensuring whomever she'd run into was also alright. "My sincerest apologies!" Amara began, giving the other a once-over. "I really should have been paying more attention to where I was going. I hope I have not managed to injure more than my pride?"

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Cecile had always found it to be a bit more than odd, the way people generally acted when it came to the weather. While she understood the need for concern, she simply couldn't fathom why and how so many lives seemed to be upended once the dreaded 's' word was mentioned, as was the case before her, currently. Taking a long, slow sip of the cider she'd managed to acquire, the Princess couldn't help but to be fascinated by the utter chaos that seemed to be devolving. Standing, she intended to head for the door, wishing to see what was occurring in the streets as well, when a nearby voice caught her attention. "I beg your pardon?" Cecile asked, cocking her head as she turned to face the speaker. "Cursed? What is it that you speak of?" Backtracking, she stepped slowly back towards the speaker. "I certainly have no reason to believe I have been cursed, though if I had been I am failing to see how a hot bath might have cured anything." Cecile's brows furrowed at the remainder of the offer. "I beg your pardon, but who might you be?" She asked eventually, unable to place the other.

@nomadhqzstarters

the news of impending snow seemed to throw some people into worse distress than the constant rain. he could hardly blame them. but distress led to hysterics, which meant he had his hands full with a lot of nothing. "if you are also here convinced you have been cursed, i'm afraid i cannot help you beyond recommending a hot bath." carus turned, having heard approaching footsteps. "if it is a problem less magical, though, i would be more than happy to assist." unless, of course, they were willing to pay a bit extra for a bit of magic, for discretion. it had been some time now since he'd communed with a god. he should probably read up on some of the other pantheons, expand his services a bit.

[wcndvrlxst]

Upon her arrival, the lochs had quickly become one of Amara's favorite spots to idle, and think. It wasn't as though Ireland didn't possess a similar landscape, though there was nothing quite like taking in the topography of a new land. Inhaling deeply, the Lady found herself lost in thought as she made her way slowly around, teeth worrying her inner cheek as she went.

Glancing up, her attention was drawn by the sight of a figure in the near-distance, though Amara couldn't quite place precisely what she was doing. As she approached the other turned, not quite startling Amara but taking her aback nonetheless. "Questions?" She parroted, cocking her head a bit as she approached. Deciding to take the offered seat, Amara lowered herself slowly to the ground, glancing at the incense before giving the other a once-over. "I do not wish to be rude, as it is I who is the clear intrusion. But, might I ask what precisely you're doing?"

status: open location: loch

the surprising lack of rain made the loch a perfect place to settle down for a much needed cleansing. though yina was used to doing such a thing far more often, the situation in scotland had the servant greatly conserving what incense she had left. alas, the atmosphere as of late was not good, and the foreigner could feel the weight on her spirit. and so, it was at the loch that yina had lit the small stick in front of her and carefully settled it into a standing position between two rocks. it was there she closed her eyes and breathed it in, relaxing both her body and mind -- at least until she felt the undeniable feeling of eyes upon her. with a gentle smile, the servant opened her eyes, head turning to gaze upon the onlooker. " i do not mind questions , " she informed, wondering if they were curious about what they were seeing or simply bored. regardless, she reached out to lightly pat the spot beside her on the shore. " join me . there is plenty for both of us . "

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Despite the general dreariness of the day, Cecile simply couldn't bring herself to remain sequestered within the Scottish castle. It wasn't as though she felt like a prisoner by any means, for all intents and purposes the Scottish royals had been more than welcoming and accommodating as far as she could tell. Still, there seemed to be a feeling of general disquiet about her, something the Princess couldn't quite put her finger on, but something nagging and present nonetheless.

Needing to get herself away from her own thoughts, Cecile decided to take a stroll around the grounds, finding herself within the Loches, taking in the scenery as she worked to quiet her still-storming thoughts. Suddenly, a loud splash drew her from her mind, and it took no time at all for the Princess to locate the source of it. Though her eyes glowed with humor her general expression remained stoic, and she took a few steps toward the scene to call out to the other, ensuring their safety. Before she could, however, a bitter line was spat from the man, leaving Cecile taking a half-step back though overall unphased. "My sincerest apologies, Your Majesty." She began with a curtsey. "I had been simply taking in the beauty these grounds have to offer. However, upon seeing you, I thought it best to approach and speak- after all, it is only polite, is it not?" Despite the knowledge she was sure they both carried- her witness of the King's foible and less-than-graceful moment- Cecile made no move or mention of the state of the other, nor of the fall.

OPEN STARTER. who : marius halasz. where : the loches.

nobody had been there when it had happened. the rain had left the ground wet, the cold making the ground slippery - not quite ice, but it had been enough to send the king stumbling into the lake with a hard splash. for a moment marius had been unsure as to whether or not he would make it back to the surface, but as soon as he had he was back to his feet, quick to straighten his posture despite now being soaked through, clothes and all. the cold had already started to step into his bones as he walked away from the water.

it was when he felt a pair of eyes on him that he stopped, head turned to look back in their direction. " what are you looking at? "