marchionessofalbionteresa-blog

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

constantlady

Steadiness.

There was calmness, and steadiness, in her relationship with her cousin, and the steadiness was reflected in the happy smile Teresa gave her. She knew her cousin was a good as they come, honestly sweet, and innocent, too naive for her opinion, but it also sparked a protective streak in Constance. It was true that she never had a sister, and it was true that once she’d envied Teresa, but now nothing but blooming sisterly love remained in the other Pembroke noble, and she figured that she should act up on it, and protect her sweet cousin. Her smile was kind as she regarded Teresa, and she nodded as she spoke. “I’m pleased to hear you are well.”

The avalanche of her cousin’s questions didn’t surprise her. Teresa was always of that inquisitive nature, but Constance didn’t mind. On the contrary, it showed her cousin’s willingness to connect with her, and she liked that. At the mention on lord Mendoza, however, her smile turned less honest. She knew about him, and there was something off about the lord, something that almost made her beseech Teresa to take caution. But, she’s yet to speak to him, so she’ll keep her thoughts to herself. “I haven’t had the pleasure, I’m afraid, but I’d like to meet him, especially since you value him so highly. What does uncle Tristan have to say about him?” Stanzi asked, her head tilted curiously, before she laughed. “Queen Belmont is lovely. She’s very kind to me, and there’s little to no work to do around the palace. Mainly I speak with her, join her for walks, we often ride out as well. I quite like my place in her court. And what of you, cousin? Do you like staying here with your father, or would you like me to introduce you to my queen? I’m sure she’d be happy to meet you.”

The only thing that occasionally brought sadness to Teresa, was that her cousin and herself weren’t as close as she’d like them to be. Sitting with her like this now, brought her that sense of closeness and familiarity that one only ever has with a sibling; at least that’s what she thought, as she never had one herself. She could remember the tales her father would say about his younger days with his brother, and the sense of togetherness that followed their bond. She was beginning to feel that togetherness with Constance, and it gave her great joy to try and elevate their relationship to the sibling stage. She returned the smile her cousin gave her, and simply nodded.

Teresa didn’t notice the change in her cousin’s smile, she was too distracted by her sudden thoughts of lord Mendoza, to truly notice. Her smile widened, as she spoke. “I do. He is quite intriguing and wonderful. I think you’d like him, cousin.” Her smile faltered into a thoughtful frown, as she thought about her father. “I’m not entirely sure, to be quite honest with you. I’ve yet to speak to my father about him, but I doubt he’d mind. He is noble, after all, and isn’t that all that matters?” She asked, head tilted in curiosity, but as her cousin spoke of their queen, Teresa’s smile widened once more. “She sounds so lovely. I’m glad to hear you’re happy with her.” Stanzi’s offer took her by surprise, and it showed on her face. She’d rather like to meet the queen, but she didn’t know if her father would approve of her living anywhere else except under his ever watchful gaze. “I would like to meet her very much, but I’m not sure if my father would let me stay at court for long. You know how protective he gets when he can’t make sure I’m perfectly healthy at all times.” Teresa sighed, only a little annoyed by it. She didn’t blame her father for being cautious, but she would’ve liked a little more freedom. “I can certainly ask him. I don’t see much of him these days, he is always somewhere else, working.”

Noble Relations - Constance & Teresa

#constantlady

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

barcnesseliza

innocence pouring from every pore of her angelic companion the baroness would’ve felt bad from thinking of all the ways to corrupt her, if only she had it in her to feel remorse. while she wasn’t as nearly as unfeeling as she thought & pretended to be, she still saw no fault in her plan to corrupt as much innocence as she could. after all nothing stays good in this world not forever. “ it’s no problem, milady. I like these sorts of events myself. “ she said with the same smile the girl gave her, mirroring her in the same way she mirrored her just now. everything was going splendidly so far.

the vamypre was often right. it was one of the benefits of immortality even if she were immortal for only two years so far. but it does change one’s perspective & with perspective everything else changes as well. her smile melted into a softer variant & as the blonde introduced ( pembroke? that was familiar. was she the marquis’ daughter? ) she bowed in respect. “ baroness tiller. if it’d please you, you may call me eliza. “

Teresa, not having a malicious bone in her body, smiled openly to the woman as she agreed to join her. In her eyes, everyone was kind and good, and no one was deliberately evil, just like Socrates had taught. Her father disagreed with that, but she was certain it was only because he lost her mother to illness, and then his brother, and it made him reluctant to enjoy life. While her mother’s and her uncle’s death plagued her at times, she was much more prone to enjoy life, because of it.

Teresa respectfully bowed as the woman stated her rank, and her smile bloomed as she gave her permission to call her by her first name. “I’d be happy to call you Eliza, but I also insist you call me Teresa. Titles are awfully impersonal, and I feel we’re going to be good friends, you and I. Only good friends watch fighting matches together, don’t they?”

#barcnesseliza

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

cassarmstrong

Cass was rarely hidden away from people. Always surrounded by others, as she always had been, she saw no reason to start now, settled outside to be seen while she worked on letters for her father. She was keenly aware of others, so when she saw the blonde, she smiled. She knew of the Pembroke family, her father sometimes did business with the Navy, so she saw the perfect chance to meet someone new.

Paperwork folded away and tucked into the pocket hidden in her skirts, she walked over to her, and smiled at the question. “I think you might be right. I heard she is a shieldmaiden from Kænland. They’re a warlike people, it’d take one of our best knights to go up against her if it’s true.” In Albion, women weren’t supposed to fight. A ridiculous thought, as far as Cass was concerned. While she might not be the best with a weapon, only knowing enough to protect herself should she be attacked, she saw women as stronger then men. Perhaps now there was a Queen without a King, things would change, but she didn’t hold her breath. Hoping or expecting anything just led to disappointment.

Teresa smiled to the brunette that joined her. She listened, nodding in thought as she watched the play fight in front of them. The woman seemed skilled enough, holding the sword as if she was born with it, and as the brunette spoke, she began to realise that her newest acquaintance could very well be correct. “I think you’re right. The way in which she holds herself, and her sword. It’s so very natural. As if she were born with it. I certainly wouldn’t like to go up against her.” She commented with a hum.

“Shieldmaiden? That sounds too intimidating, yet appealing at the same time. Do you ever wish you could fight like them? Be trained in the arts of war? Sometimes I think about it. A part of me is mortified whenever I see anything sharper than a quill, but there’s also a part of me that’d like to feel the weight of an iron sword, and maybe even wield it. It’s a silly thought, I know.”

#cassarmstrong

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

constantlady

Awkward.

There was a certain awkwardness with her cousin, the urge to do more than just a polite greeting, and she could see the same thing in the other’s eyes. They were raised together, for the most part, even if they didn’t share a rank, with Teresa being of more noble blood, as a marchioness, but after initial jealousy, Constance realised she’s much happier being a noble lady, rather than a marchioness or baroness. Ladies had much less weight upon their shoulders, and she began feeling sorry for her cousin; she was too naive for her own good, at times, and she could understand why Tristan was so protective over his daughter.

She smiled to her cousin, as the servant girl poured each of them a cup of tea. Constance dismissed her with a polite smile, kind even to her staff, and it was a trait she believed she shared with her cousin. Teresa’s question brought another soft smile to her lips. “I am well, cousin, thank you. I hope you are well, too?” She questioned, before waving her hand in a dismissive manner. “There’s no need to apologise, Teresa. I’ve been a little busy these days as well. But, I’m glad we’ve found time to meet up You must tell me everything, how do you enjoy Atlantis so far? Does it live up to your expectations?”

Teresa was truly happy to see her cousin. Maybe this is the time when they finally connect with each other. She disliked the distance between them; they might not be sisters, but they were cousins, and they were family, and she loved all her family. Her smile widened as Constance said she was well, nodding to her counter question. “I am well too, cousin, thank you.” The politeness between them was a bit agitating, but it was necessary; they were both women of rank, and etiquette was a must.

At he question, Teresa’s smile widened. “I love it so far! Those things I’ve managed to see, that is. Though, I miss lord Mendoza and his tales. He is a wonderful person. Have you met him? If you haven’t, I’d like you to meet him.” She spoke, soft smile on her lips. “How do you like your position win the queen’s household? Is she kind to you? Does she give you too much work?”

Noble Relations - Constance & Teresa

#constantlady

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

barcnesseliza

cold eyes soften into warmth, fang hiding smile widens as the petite blonde speaks. she was excited & delighted, soft & naive, & the game almost lost it’s appeal. it was easy, too easy to win this girl’s trust & eliza loathed easy victories. still she was a pleasant company so far so the baroness didn’t have the reason to frighten her or eat her. yet. instead she smiled & inclined her head. “ but of course, I’d be delighted to see them up close. “ it was a quick lie & she didn’t even have to think for it roll off her honeyed tongue.

“ your father only wants what’s best for you. all of the fathers do. “ another lie. hers didn’t care about her aspirations, ambitions & wishes; he only cared to see her married & the family wealth growing. how very fatherly. “ worry not my lady I’ll make sure you’re safe. “ for now.

Teresa smiles almost immediately, as the woman before her visibly softens. She had a look about her that drove the marchioness closer, making it impossible to resist the allure, the trusting aura she radiated. Her smile widened in gratitude as the woman accepted to watch the training. “Thank you for accompanying me. It’s always best to watch these things in pair, isn’t it?” She added.

As the brunette spoke, Teresa nodded. Yes, of course, it was certain that her father only ever wanted the best for her. She only wished he wouldn’t be so protective of her at all times. “You are right, of course.” She smiled in another grateful smile as she added the latter. “Thank you, again. I feel much safer already.” She softly chuckled. “How rude of me, we have not been properly introduced. I’m Teresa Pembroke.” Teresa curtsied.

#barcnesseliza

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

barcnesseliza

smile concealing fangs contorted into something soft, gentle. shaking her head eliza spoke, the tone in her voice bordering of timidness. “ there was no harm, my lady. I am all in one piece as I hope you are. “ play pretend was easy. a little smile here, averted gaze there & voilá. she was the perfect picture of well mannered human. it’s been two years since she had a pulse, but it’s been long before that since she was truly timid. this blonde human was meek. appealing to the eyes & with a pleasing temperament, but she didn’t see the spark in her. nothing that would indicate that the girl could be valuable to have in the coven. for now.

“ they are captivating, aren’t they? men & women both. I find it pleasing that women train alongside men. “ her comment was soft, veiled as quiet excitement to spur the woman into continuing their conversation. who knows; she could prove useful yet. “ we can get closer to them. “

Teresa, being the naive girl, smiled in return completely oblivious to the danger that coiled in the woman. She seemed nice, and her smile was pretty, and it made the marchioness immediately trusting of her. “Yes, I am all in one piece, too. Thank you for asking.” She politely said, her smile friendly. The woman in front of her was noble, that was evident from the way she looked and talked, and she seemed dimly familiar, as if she’s seen her around Albion before. Though it could only be the sentiment of familiarity; if anyone smiled once or twice to Teresa, she’d immediately feel like she’ve known them for years.

The words that she’s spoken brought a delighted smile to her face. “Would you mind? My father doesn’t allow me close to the training grounds, he thinks I’ll hurt myself or someone will involuntarily, or voluntarily but I can’t see why, hurt me. I’d be happy if you’d watch them with me.”

#barcnesseliza

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

Teresa had little to do in an unknown country, and a palace that was not her familiar living quarters. While she enjoyed exploring new places with as much liberty as her father would grant her, she would grow bored of all it pretty soon. She had little to do and with her father currently gone somewhere, she was watched like a hawk by her servants. She was halfway through a book, mind wandering, when her page delivered a letter, written to her by her lady cousin, Constance. Teresa ripped the seal open, delighted by the invitation and quickly scribbled down her response for the page boy to deliver.

She changed her dress into something less formal and more accommodating, and headed towards her cousin’s living quarters. It was a short trek and the servant smiled to her, opening the doors as soon as she was spotted. Her own smile widened as she watched her cousin rise from her seat, and greeted her with a curtsy. “Cousin Constance, I am delighted you called for me.” Teresa had an urge to hug her, but she thought it’d be a little awkward, and instead she simply joined her at the sofa. “How are you, cousin? I’m sorry I didn’t have the chance to visit you sooner.”

Noble Relations - Constance & Teresa

@marchionessofalbionteresa

Sister.

Stanzi never had one, but she always wanted one. A bond of sisterhood was something she envied those who had it, especially those who had it and neglected it, or destroyed it. She had only one cousin and, even if they were brought up together for the most part, they were never very close. It saddened Constance and she wondered if she could use the opportunity of being in Atlantis at the same time Teresa was, to interact with her more and, if it is not too late, develop a stronger bond with her more naive cousin.

She sent a letter to marchioness Pembroke, asking for an afternoon tea in her chambers, and was delighted when her royal cousin responded affirmatively. Stanzi had set up the chambers, with the help from the Pembroke staff, and awaited her cousin’s arrival, sitting upon a cushioned sofa. The door of her chambers opened at five o’clock sharp and Constance rose to greet her cousin with a smile.

“Cousin Teresa. I’m delighted you accepted my invitation. May I offer you with tea?”

#constantlady

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

There was little to do in the palace. She barely knew anyone and her father would not let her make any new acquaintances without proof-meeting them first. Honestly, his over protectiveness was starting to get to her, but being of kind heart and understanding nature, Teresa felt for her father. It wasn’t easy being a marquis and an admiral, delaing with the loss of his beloved wife, taking care of his only daughter, plus his niece, and making sure they are safe and well taken care of while he’s away on duty. That was the only reason why she never complained when marquis Pembroke turned overbearing.

But, since he wasn’t around at the moment, there was no point in staying holed up indoors all day, and she ventured outside to inhale fresh air. She was leaned against one of the pillars, her head resting against the marble, and watched as the people trained. A tingling sensation alerted her of another presence beside her and Teresa leaned her head towards the person, speaking softly: “Who do you think will win this fight? I hope the lady will, she’s much more smaller and quicker than her opponent.”

#bflas.starter

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

Teresa admired the general splendor of Atlantis. The palace where she was settled in with her father was a huge complex, and she wondered if she’ll have the time to explore it all. Her chambers were lovely, decorated in such a manner as if they asked her about it, but while it was perfect, it was also indoors. The day was simply too beautiful to spend it inside and since she couldn’t find her father to keep her company, she ventured outside to admire the exterior of the palace, the gardens and the training grounds, where men and women trained. She wondered if she’d see a familiar face among the trainers and trainees, hear a well known voice among the clang of swords and shouts.

Naturally, while she was watching the training grounds, she wasn’t paying attention to what was in front of her until it was almost too late. Teresa halted in time to avoid collision with a dark haired woman, who uttered out an apology, and immediately her face contorted into an expression of pure shame. “I am so sorry I nearly collided with you. The training grounds captured my attention. I hope I didn’t step on your dress or, worse, on your foot?”

the day was odiously beautiful. the birds were chirping, people hurried off from place to place tied together in a lively chatter & running around like cattle. while eliza did not have anything against bright & sunny days ( with the compliments of a few friends she could walk about in daylight without being incinerated to ashes ), today she was feeling cranky - & it barely helped that it was the tenth day of continuous sunshine & people were really starting to bug her with their joyous moods. oh, what she would give for a good hearted murder, if only to dim such a bright day.

atlantis was barely her residence of choice, but her duty as a wife brought her there - that, & hoping she might see him again, as he had promised. as there was no sight of him anywhere, her mood was getting the better of her, & it has been over a week since she popped a warm one open with her fangs. eliza wandered around, her curiosity getting the best of her ( if she was doomed to endure this town & her husband all at the same time, least she can do is explore ) as she walked about, admiring the setting.

while her heightened senses warned her about approaching person, she has decided to remain on her course & let the collision… happen. the person halted a step before she did, avoiding collision & feigning surprise, eliza halted in her steps, her fingers gripping her skirts. “ many apologies. i fear i have rather let my mind wander. “ her tone was soft, her eyes raking once over her new acquaintance.

this should be entertaining.

#barcnesseliza

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

Albion’s Court has found Marchioness Teresa Pembroke of Albion. She is aged 26 and is human.

All she has ever wanted is for someone to return the love she shares so easily. Her life is one of duty and expectations, and romance was the one thing she was told she would not get. Anything else was possible, except that. All the books she’s read, the poetry she has sighed over, all of it makes her long for something out of her reach.

Her opinion on the treaty is supportive, but she will find happiness and marry for love.

Connections:

Edgar Douglas: She has known Edgar for several years now, his work for the Navy often bringing him in close contact with her father. She finds him to be a lot more tolerable when he’s not worried about appearances, but since her father didn’t promote him, he’s been too much for her to tolerate.

Constance Pembroke: Teresa tries so hard to be good friends with her cousin, even if Constance’s duties keep her so busy. She does her best to share everything with her, seeing their family as a bond that cannot be broken.

Rodrigo Mendoza: The charming lord is the most interesting person Teresa has met in a long time. His stories about all the places he’s seen are an endless fascination for her. She cannot help but wonder if this is exactly the turn her life should have gone. Her father cannot think that a Lord is below her, after all.

Faceclaim: Holliday Grainger

#teresa #bio

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

Family for Teresa means;

- As much as her father is protective of her, sometimes even bordering on overprotective, Teresa is almost equally protective of him. He is her only family and she loves him with all her heart. She would do anything for him and she knows he would do the same. - She doesn’t really remember her mother, but she remembers her songs to her and the gentle tone in her voice which she would use when she would read books to her. She remembers the smell of her perfume, sandalwood mixed with patchouli, and she knows she looks a lot like her. When she’s sad, she likes to look at her reflection and imagine it’s her mother comforting her. -Teresa doesn’t have any siblings and she often wishes she wouldn’t be alone, which she is why she treats her cousin Eliza as a sister, rather than her uncle’s daughter. She loves the other woman deeply and she is sad that Eliza often evades her and isn’t as open towards her as she would’ve liked. She wishes they could talk more often, and she writes her letters almost daily, even if she doesn’t send half of them.

#bflas.task01 #family headcanon #teresa #cd #governor pembroke #eliza gupta

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

Teresa was supposed to have a normal day, walking to the market to buy some necessities, apples and a fresh ink for the numerous letters she wrote and sent to her forced friends, acquaintances, and a certain gentleman who caught her eye. As she walked, accompanied by her old governess, Tess had found herself separating from the woman again, thinking she caught a familiar head in the crowds, only to be mistaken as the woman turned around, her brown eyes assessing the crowds before she vanished, hurrying off to her husband who was purchasing parsley at the herb cart. Teresa smiled to the familiar woman who was selling the herbs, when suddenly something changed in the air. A sort of density, thickness and blinding light which turned to darkness all erupted at the same time.

And then the fire, out of nowhere, everything was burning and the people started screaming. The young noblewoman made a beeline towards where she’s last seen her governess, only to find her nowhere in sight. The wooden cart were burning, some people were caught in a blaze, some were shot by wayward bullets, fired from terrified men and some were slashed with something which felt inhuman. She couldn’t see anyone, not really. Only hoods and long cloaks, similar to how she had always pictured the medieval executioners, or cult worshipers. It seemed like her friend and guardian was right, they weren’t alone in this world and amidst such chaos, she understood why they never surfaced before. Humanity won’t tolerate them after this.

Teresa was feeling dizzy, like the very air was sucked from around her and she tried running away, but the moment she thought she was safe, she collided with an invisible wall with full speed, knocking her down and out, if only for a few moments. Perhaps it was hours, perhaps minutes, because when she opened her eyes, the barrier was gone and someone was tugging at her hand, helping her to get up.

“Thank you, you are very kind.” She said in a quiet, uncertain voice, feeling disoriented. “Would you mind accompanying me to Governor Pembroke’s home, please? I think I feel a little uncertain on my feet.”

#bflas.starter #bflas.event #murder tw

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

“I don’t want gemstones or gold. I have those things already.”

Name: Teresa Pembroke

Species: Human

Alias: -

Age: 26

Occupation: -

Country of origin: England

Loyalties: Her family

Personality:

Loving, generous, outgoing

Naive, pushy, absent-minded

Background:

The beloved only child, Teresa grew up given everything, her every whim catered to. It was easy for people to adore the happy child, one that loved to climb into laps and beg people to tell her stories. It was a happy life, and it could have easily turned her spoiled, but her generous nature always meant that she shared her luck with anyone who was kind to her.

Her affectionate nature was passed down to her from her mother, who unfortunately succumbed to illness despite the best work of the best physicians. Heartbroken by the loss of the woman he loved most, her father threw himself into his work, leaving the care of the little girl that reminded him of his lost lost to governesses and tutors.

As she grew older, he feared she would look like her mother, but it was only ever her nature that reminded him of her, so as time passed, it became easier for him to spend time with her, but by then, she had already become starved for affection after so long being reprimanded by her governess for daydreaming. Becoming paranoid, her father worried the moment she became just a little ill with a cold.

Hoping the warmer climate would be good for her health, her father campaigned for the job of Governor, easily winning it. He had always been a successful man, and whatever he set his mind to he achieved. She saw it as the chance for adventure, to see more of the world, and perhaps find that fairytale she had always been looking for.

Teresa’s father has grown distant yet again, after she mentioned the fact that most girls her age were married or betrothed. He could not bear to lose her, so any suitors were treated dismissively. Every day that she is stifled is another day closer to her seeking out that life she has wanted; a story of her own.

Connections:

Edgar Douglas: She has known Edgar for several years now, his work for the Navy often bringing him in close contact with her father. She finds him to be a lot more tolerable when he’s not worried about appearances, but since her father didn’t promote him, he’s been too much for her to tolerate.

Eliza Gupta: Teresa tries so hard to be good friends with her cousin, even if Eliza keeps using her duties as an excuse to avoid her. Teresa isn’t certain why her father is so cruel to her cousin, which is what she sees Eliza as. Despite the distance that Eliza keeps between them, she does her best to share everything with her, seeing their family as a bond that cannot be broken.

Rodrigo Mendoza: The charming Spaniard is the most interesting person Teresa has met in a long time. His stories about all the places he’s seen are an endless fascination for her. She cannot help but wonder if this is exactly the turn her life should have gone. Her father cannot think that a Lord is below her, after all.

This character’s faceclaim is Holliday Grainger and the character is taken.

#teresa #bio

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

The rich really did lead different lives. Not once, had Charles ever had a chaperone, even if it was arguable that he could have done with one. Even in those hazy memories before his sisters were born, he and Henry would run around outside and only come back in when their mother called.  “Sounds like you are taking a well deserved break. Being guilty every once a while is good for you. Otherwise you end up bored, don’t you?”

He knew a lot about boredom. He hated doing nothing, always finding something to fill his time. If he couldn’t, he filled it with drink, or by chasing after a one night stand. Fortunately, he didn’t feel the need to try fill the void with anything tonight, not when there was a chance two red-heads might see him and scold him. “It’s a real pleasure, Teresa. Even if having to rescue you isn’t really the best way of meeting you.”

Teresa laughed at his words, finding entertainment in his company. She rarely had the privilege of meeting someone who isn’t tightly knit with the circles she was usually circulating about, and she found her conversation with Charles to be greatly welcomed and appreciated. “I do believe you are right. What is life without a little innocent mischief? We can’t all be properly behaved at all times, forever.” She nodded, but mostly to herself, finding conviction in her own words. After all, this truly was a little innocent mischief. Surely, the old lady will not be terribly disappointed, or enraged, with her.

“I, on the contrary, think it’s the best way to meet somebody. I fear chivalry is long overlooked now and even the slightest display of it is greatly appreciated, and I daresay, needed.” Tess replied with a warm and utterly friendly smile.

#ghostroberts

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

“It is an honour, Teresa Pembroke. Tell me, are you related to the Governor?” It was more than idle curiosity that her asking. Someone connected to one of the most powerful men in a place that was edging closer to war being someone that was soft would be a boon to Eir. Perhaps, if she truly was as kind as she seemed, she might prove herself to be an ally.

She patted Teresa’s hand kindly. While she would not talk of the supernatural, and risk driving the girl away, she wouldn’t lie to her either. “It is not my story to tell, but I don’t mind sharing what I can. Your sadness truly does you credit. You can see that most others do not share that. They cannot see that the trees had a life of their own, and that has been taken away. It would have been a beautiful place once, full of life and magic.” She knew the words were a hint of what she truly meant, but could also be dismissed as fanciful language. “Any time a place like that is taken away, replaced by something else, there will always be a touch of sadness about it that can be sensed by others who are open to it. You find it in places all over the world.”

Teresa smiled a shy smile this time, as her companion pieced two and two together with her last name. Not many people held the Pembroke name and the young lady nodded. “I am, indeed. Governor is my dear father.” She replied honestly, secretly wondering how will the woman respond to that. She wasn’t a fool, she knew her father wasn’t as loved as she would’ve hoped, mostly because he seemed so disinterested in the Port Royal - he was fair and just when situation would require it of him, but when it didn’t he often chose doing nothing.

The lady of Port Royal listened to Erica, nodding every now and then as she memorised her words. As she mentioned magic, she bit her lips in thought. After the conversation with Darcy, she wasn’t foolish enough to think that they were the only ones populating the planet, but she wasn’t sure what existed, exactly. Tess wondered if there were such things as dryads and nymphs after all. “It does feel a bit magic, doesn’t it? Do you believe in the supernatural?” She asked, a smidgen of excitement coursing through her body. “I do. My good friend feels it’s preposterous to think we’re alone in the world and I agree.”

#healinghandmaiden

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

He took the seat once she gave him permission. When he saw her smile, he laughed, a soft sound. “Oh, no, don’t say it’s your fault.” His voice was mildly sarcastic, clearly teasing her a little. “A good woman like yourself does no wrong.” He leaned towards her as if sharing a secret. “That’s what you say when your chaperone scolds you. ‘But it wasn’t my fault, I’m innocent.’.” He fluttered his hand, feigning girlish innocence as he said the last words.

Charles always appreciated a good joke, and considering the smile on her face, he saw no harm in teasing her.

“So,” his voice back to normal, he held out a hand, “What is your name, miss? I’m Charles.” Just in case, he wouldn’t reveal his last name. She wouldn’t know it, but she might repeat it to those who would. He knew what the nobility was like, they ran in small circles. One in her circle might have connections to the Navy.

Teresa laughed at his soft teasing, an amused sound leaving her lips. “My father would believe it, but my chaperone sees right though my facade. I am never able to convince her in my innocence, feigned or not. Though, I have to admit, it is rarely feigned. Aside from tonight, of course. I’m rather guilty now.” She chuckled again, the image of her elderly governess scolding her, filling her mind. It was an entertaining scene; the woman was kind, but she was strict, and Teresa rarely disobeyed her.

Teresa had wondered if the man might be familiar with her family, or anyone from the governor’s circle of known people. She had half the mind to introduce herself as Claire, but if the man turned out to know her father, it would be awkward, and not really polite, when he finds out she’s not really Claire. “Teresa.” She accepted his hand with a wide smile.

#ghostroberts

[marchionessofalbionteresa-blog]

It intrigued her, how sensitive this young woman was. “Understanding even a part of what has happened here is a good thing. It makes you perceptive, and kind.” She shifted to turn all of her attention onto her, rather than watching the light and shadows of the bonfire in the distance. “My name is Erica Burgess, by the way. Seems so rude to have a conversation and think of you as ‘the woman’.”

There was a soft shake of her head. “No, I’m afraid these festivities seem hollow to me. I see only loss when I look at the clearing, not growth.” She leaned back, stretching her legs out but keeping herself propped up with her elbow. Despite how casual she felt, she still held the grace that was always a part of her. “I do enjoy a good celebration, don’t get me wrong.” She could drink any human here under the table, and still be perfectly balanced. “But I did not come here to celebrate, I came to pay my respects.”

Teresa had listened to the woman with a gentle smile on her face, her smile widening as she called her kind. They had just met, and the other blonde had already seemed so attuned to who the lady really was, and it made her proud, meaning that her kindness was evident. Her words brought a soft chuckle. “It does seem rude, indeed. It is a pleasure to meet you, Erica. I’m Teresa Pembroke.” She introduced with a friendly, and kind smile on her face.

Her explanation of her presence in the grove brought a curious frown on Tess’ face. What had happened here, for Erica to pay her respects rather than to celebrate with the others? But, then, Teresa felt that sadness too; maybe her new companion could shed some light onto it. “Do you mind telling me what happened here? I feel awfully sad here, but I thought it was just my general mood. I’m not used to parties such as this.”

#healinghandmaiden