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#she took the crown and started charities to make her country better !
newtonsheffield · 12 days
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Molly, I loved little princess bean Katie and Lady Mary with Dilf daddy King Sharma 😍 we need more. How did they meet? Did Katie catch Mary sleeping in Dilf King Sharma bed? I need to know!! please 🙏
Oh they’re super sweet.
Once upon a time, Mary was only Lady Mary Sheffield, the Earl of Sheffield’s daughter and Tharman was only His Royal Highness, Tharman, Crown Prince. And He had a very sweet daughter.
“Now, I’ve arranged for you to sit next to the Prince at dinner.”
Mary stared at her mother as they sat in the back of the car weaving through traffic. “How, and more importantly; Why?”
Her mother waved her hand. “I made a donation to this… whatever this charity is.”
“A children’s hospital? You know, sick children.”
“Don’t be so…snippy tonight.” Her mother sighed, “Mary, please. Please don’t be sarcastic tonight.”
“So… don’t be myself?” Mary asked, eyebrows raised. “I’m to sit next to the Crown Prince for some… ungodly reason and… become mute.”
“Oh don’t be dense.” Her mother scoffed, “He’s had long enough. It’s high time he married again and you, if you would put in just a modicum of effort; would be perfect.”
“He’s had long enough?!” Mary squawked, a little horrified, “Mama, his wife died from complications after childbirth. I think he’s allowed to grieve.”
“Oh, is that what you’re worried about?!” Her mother rolled her eyes, “Darling, you could ship the girl off to boarding school by the time you’re actually married. And I’m sure they have people who would take care of her in the meantime.”
Mary knew that all too well. She’d spent an entire childhood of her own with no one but a nanny for company, her parents sometimes not even in the same country. So lonely.
Mary gaped at her mother, “What are you-?! I can’t believe you.”
“You’re quite pretty when you smile. Just flirt with him a little, one thing can lead to another. A little pregnancy scare in a few months and-“
“I’m not sitting beside him!” The car pulled up to the venue and Mary slipped out as soon as she could, desperate to slip away but her mother caught her by the arm, her nails digging in.
“You are going to. You can’t not. How would that look?”
Her mother was right. She could hardly refuse to sit beside the prince without it looking like a slight but all she felt in the pit of her stomach was dread. Dread that increased with every step she took.
She could feel her mother’s eyes boring in to her from three tables away as they waited for the prince to arrive, Mary already in her seat. He’d become a bit of a recluse truly, in the four years since his wife had passed away. Appearing at events and leaving as soon as would have been appropriate. She’d seen him quite a few times at a distance, though they’d never been introduced and as she stood, waiting for him to make his way across the room.
He was handsome, up close. She realised as he inclined his head to everyone at the table and his eyes fell on her. His jaw sharp and his eyes kind, his thick, dark hair curling over his brow. So handsome that she fumbled a little as she curtsied and she could nearly hear her mother cursing across the room.
“Please, please. Everyone sit.” He smiled, “I’m sorry I’m so late. A little Princess was telling me all the reasons why I should take her to the toy store tomorrow.”
Everyone let out a polite chuckle as they settled into their seats and mary did the same, feeling a little wooden. Avoiding her mother’s piercing gaze. She could hardly focus on anything as the dinner started, staring at her glass of water as conversation started around her.
“Is everything alright?”
His voice was warm, close to her ear and it startled her, the gentleness in it. She let her eyes slide to his and a lump appeared in her throat at the gentle concern colouring his face.
“Of course, your highness.”
His eyes slid to her name card, “I’m sorry I’m not better company, Lady Mary. I’d be very happy to trade places.”
Mary breathed a sighed imaging her mother’s furious face. “Lord, please don’t do that.”
“I’m very happy for you to choose the topic of conversation then. I’ll admit I’m a poor conversationalist these days. I spend most of my time with a four year old. Well, she will be soon.”
There was something so sweet in that. In the way his eyes lit up as he spoke about his daughter and his smile grew brighter. And it made her brave.
She cleared her throat, smiling as she took a sip of her wine. “Are we acquainted enough that I could ask you for a favour?”
His eyes widened but he leaned in, smiling bemusedly, “Well we’ve known one another a full minute. I have to imagine we are.”
“No matter what I do tonight, can you pretend to be very uninterested in me?”
“Do you want me to be uninterested in you?”
“I want my mother to think you are.”
“Ah.” He gave her a tight smile. “I see.”
He cleared his throat, making a great show of leaning away from her. “I’m sorry, Lady Mary, I disagree!”
She bit back a smile, “Maybe a little too dramatic.”
He winked at her quickly before he turned away completely, nudging his elbow until her hand rested on it and it looked for all the world as though she was desperately trying to get his attention.
“Did you try, Mary?” Her mother tutted as they left. “Did you actually try?!”
“I did, Mother.” She said sighing, “I’m not sure what you wanted me to do? Take my dress off and sit in his lap?”
Her mother stood stone faced. “You aren’t anywhere near as amusing as you think.”
“Maybe not, but I am going home.”
“Fine. You’re useless to me anyway.”
Mary sighed as she turned away, trying not to let it sting as she made her way down the steps towards her waiting car. She was almost there when she heard a voice call out.
“Are we safe?”
She started at the sound of his voice and turned to see him waiting for her, grinning a slightly lopsided smile that made her heart skip.
“Ah well, she’s deemed me useless and sent me home.” Mary chuckled, “She continues to think I’m a disappointment so… I’d have to say quite the win tonight.”
His laughter was a bemused, warm little thing and she had the oddest impression that it had made its way into her chest. “I’m always glad to be of assistance, Lady Mary.”
“Very gallant of you, Your Highness.”
He really was very handsome as he smiled at her in the moonlight, dimples on his cheeks. He paused for a moment, “Can I… ask you a question?”
“I think we’re past that point. Surely.”
“Why? Why did you…? Many women might have behaved differently and I just… Why?”
Mary sighed, honesty spilling out of her. “If I give my mother this… it would never be enough. I will never be enough for her. And it doesn’t seem fair for you to be drawn into all that.”
He gave her a sad smile, leaning in closer. “Then I’m afraid to say it but your mother’s an idiot.”
Surprised laughter burst out of her and she loved the way his smile grew at the sound of it.
“Then it’s not because you’re seeing someone else?”
Her heart stuttered. “I’m not but…”
“Lady Mary I wondered if you’d like to have dinner with me. No one would have to know. I only… It’s been a long time since I enjoyed myself at one of these things and I… I’d like to get to know you.”
She stared at him, a little in shock but the answer came without much thought. “I think I’d like that as well.”
It was a nearly two months later, when she woke up warm in his bed, his chest warm behind her before she slipped out of it. Throwing the shirt she’d slipped off his shoulders last night back over her as she padded towards the kitchen.
His sister had taken Kate out the night before, she’d bring her back this afternoon and something ached in her chest, something anxious at what they’d been dancing around. Her meeting his daughter.
He loved his daughter. That much was obvious. From the way he spoke about her and the fact that his study was covered in scrawled pictures in bright green crayon. The greatest gift of his life, he called her, with so much warmth that a lump grew in Mary’s throat now just thinking about it as she opened the fridge. There was another, bigger kitchen, Mary knew, where professional chefs toiled away but this was for the family alone, so they didn’t have to bother the staff over tiny little things. Hunger gnawed at her stomach and she was so engrossed in her own thoughts that she almost didn’t hear it.
“Who are you?!”
“Fuck!” Mary squawked in surprise, letting out a screech as she dropped the jug of orange juice she’d just lifted off the shelf, the glass smashing on the floor at her feet as she whirled around.
A tiny girl was standing in the door way still in her pyjamas, fluffy slippers on her feet. She had Tharman’s thick, curly hair that cascaded down her shoulders, his little twin as she stared adorably up at Mary, tapping her foot.
“My Appa says that’s a naughty word.”
“I’m… I’m so sorry.” Mary gasped as footsteps sounded in the hallway, Tharman rushing in.
He was only in his boxers his hair disheveled from sleep and the way Mary’s hands had run through with her legs over his shoulders and his jaw fell open at the sight in front of him. Mary, naked but for his shirt. His daughter, confused. Juice, all over the floor.
“Kate, Peanut.” Tharman said finally, picking her up and settling her on his hip with an apologetic look at Mary. “Auntie Im was supposed to drop you off later.”
“Granny said she needed her.” Kate chirped still staring at Mary, who could hardly breathe. “Where are her pyjamas?”
Mary wanted to fall through the ground, truth be told, trying to tug the shirt further down her thighs. “I… left them at home.”
Tharman smirked a little looking up at the ceiling before he sighed. “Kate, remember how we spoke about how sometimes Men and women have special friends?”
Kate nodded, resting her chin on her father’s shoulder. “Then they get married sometimes.”
“Sometimes.” Tharman said quickly, “Well, this is Mary and she’s Appa’s special friend. Can you say Hello?”
Kate smiled at her, a cheeky little grin as she reached out her hand for Mary to shake, “I’m Kate.”
Mary’s heart fluttered as she held her hand out to take Kate’s tiny one in hers. “It’s nice to meet you kate. Your Appa’s told me so much about you.”
Kate looked suspicious, “Appa is silly.”
“Appa’s very silly.” Tharman huffed in agreement, kissing his daughter’s temple.
“Are you going to stay with us today?”
Mary looked at Tharman who smiled encouragingly before she nodded, “If that’s okay with you.”
“Mary might be around here a lot from now on, peanut.”
Kate looked between them slowly, her lips pouting. “Mary can you read?”
Mary bit back a laugh, “I can read, yes.”
“Can you do voices? Appa’s bad at them.”
“I can… try.”
Kate patted her father’s head in a sign to let her down and she tugged Mary’s hand forward dragging her out of the kitchen, calling back to her father. “Mary and me are going to get books and toys Appa!”
Tharman kissed Mary’s cheek quickly as she passed sighing as they left “I guess I’ll clean up the juice then.”
And when she sat on the floor with Kate on her lap and Tharman across from her it was shard not to feel as though this was the start of their little family. Even if no one else knew yet.
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tessa-liam · 2 months
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Marabelle Series
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Choices – The Royal Romance, AU 
Series Premise – An American teenager from New York City is introduced to the world of a small European country and its society of royalty, nobility, and commoners. How will her life story be transformed? Will this new adventure bring her happiness...or regret? 
Marabelle Series Masterlist 
Main Pairing – Prince Liam Rys x F!OC Lady Sophia (Sophie) Taylor 
Other Pairings – Maxwell Beaumont x M!OC Daniel (from NYC), Drake Walker x F!OC Melanie Smithson 
Most characters belong to Pixelberry Studios 
Series Rating – M*🔞Warnings: this series will have NSFW material, crude language & innuendo. 
Not Beta’d - Please excuse all errors. 
Category – Alternate universe/on-going series/angst/fluff 
Words: 2389
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The Awakening, Chapter 9 
Chapter Summary – The Duke of Ramsford, Barthelemy Beaumont returns to House Beaumont. Liam prepares for the polo match charity fundraiser in support of disaster relief in Portavira. Sophie attends classes at the University of Cordonia. King Constantine reveals his illness. 
Music Inspiration: The Crown Prince, Waylon Jennings 
A/N1: Bethany Beaumont, Maxwell’s mother, is originally from the U.S. and is Barthelemy Beaumont’s second wife. Annabelle Beaumont (deceased) is Bertrand’s mother. 
A/N2: ‘Social Season’ in this AU series refers to a traditional period in the spring/summer for royalty and members of the court to take part in Balls, dinner parties and charity events. 
A/N3: My submission for Choices Flashfics @choicesflashfics, Week #68, prompt 1 - “Don’t start something you can’t finish.” 
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 Personal Care Home, Vallenheim 
Standing in the waiting room, staring out of the window at the parking lot outside of the personal care home, the gray-haired man appeared aloof and unapproachable to anyone passing by. That was, until he spotted his wife and eldest son step out of the town car. The corners of his mouth upturned as he saw his auburn-haired wife gracefully step onto the curb and walk toward the building. His son, Bertrand, followed behind her, his back straight, his expression stoic. 
As the two approached the door, the man straightened his posture and smoothed his salt and pepper hair. He took a deep breath, preparing himself for the reunion he had been anxiously expecting after the years apart. 
The door swung open, and his wife entered, her dark eyes lighting up as they landed on him. "Barthelemy," she breathed, a smile spreading across her face. 
"Bethany," he replied, stepping toward her and taking her hands in his. "It is so good to see you." 
"And you," she said, squeezing his hands in return. 
Their moment was interrupted by their son, who cleared his throat. "Father," he said, inclining his head respectfully. 
"Bertrand," the man replied. "I trust you've been taking proper care of your mother." 
"Of course," Bertrand replied, a hint of defensiveness in his tone. "I wouldn't dream of doing otherwise." 
Bethany chuckled. "He's done a fine job, Barthelemy, along with Maxwell," she assured him. "I couldn't have asked for better sons." 
Barthelemy nodded, satisfied. "Good." 
He then turned his attention to the doctor, who had been watching the exchange silently. "Is everything in order, Doctor? I'd like to get home to Cordonia as soon as possible." 
"Yes, Your Grace," the doctor replied, handing him a thick folder. "Here are all the instructions and prescriptions you'll need. The nurse will be along shortly with the medication you need to take during your trip home. Just be sure to follow the dosage schedule carefully." 
"Of course," Barthelemy replied, a hint of irritation in his voice. He loathed being told what to do, even by medical professionals. Unbeknownst to Bethany and Bertrand, he was playing, along with the doctor and nurse, the role of a lifetime: The miraculously awakened coma patient. 
The doctor smiled apologetically. "Forgive me, Your Grace. I just want to make sure you have all the information you need."  
"I understand, Doctor. And I appreciate your thoroughness." 
The nurse entered the room with a wheelchair, which Barthelemy at once objected to. 
"Surely, that's not necessary," he protested. 
"It's just protocol, Your Grace," the nurse explained. "It's clinic policy.” 
"Very well," Barthelemy sighed, reluctantly settling into the chair. 
Bethany and Bertrand flanked him, each taking the handle of the wheelchair. 
"Are you ready, Father?" Bertrand asked. 
"As ready as I'll ever be," Barthelemy replied. 
The Cordonian Royal Polo Club 
"Hey, Liam, I thought I'd find you out here," Drake called out as he approached the stable, his boots crunching on the gravel. 
"Oh, hey Drake," Liam answered. "I didn't think you were coming until later." 
"Yeah, well, I finished my rounds early, and I thought I'd come by and see how you're doing. How was the New Year's Ball?"  
"It was excellent," Liam smiled, his mind flashing back to his romantic interlude with Lady Sophie. "We had a lot of fun." 
"I'll bet you did," Drake smirked, knowing that his 'smitten' best friend personally asked Sophie to attend.  
"It's not like that," Liam protested, though his ears turned slightly pink. 
"Mmm hmm.” 
"It's not ..." Liam started. 
"Whatever you say, Liam." Drake chuckled, shaking his head knowingly. 
"Anyway," Liam said, changing the subject, "I'm just getting started on the polo drills."
"Mind if I watch?" 
"Of course not." 
Drake sat on a bench while Liam mounted his horse. His crisp white polo shirt accentuated his tanned muscular physique with his riding breeches and boots. 
"All right, boy, let’s see what you can do," Liam calmly spoke, gently kicking the horse's flanks. 
The horse took off like a shot, galloping across the field at top speed. 
Liam leaned forward, urging the horse on. 
Drake watched, transfixed, as Liam and the horse moved as one, their bodies in perfect sync. 
"That was impressive! Excellent!" Drake called out, as Liam brought the horse to a halt in front of him. 
"Thanks," Liam replied, breathing heavily. "He's a dependable and efficient steed," giving the horse a pat on the neck. 
Liam dismounted and accepted a bottle of water and towel from an attendant. As Liam and Drake walked toward the clubhouse, the ranch hands steered the thoroughbred back to the barn. 
“That reminds me, Drake. Are you still available to join my polo team for the fund-raising event in Portavira next week?” 
 “Yes, Mel and I are looking forward to kicking noble ass." Drake grinned knowing that Neville was on the opposing team.
"I still need to find one more player since Rashad had to cancel."
“What about Sophie? Melanie tells me she played polo in New York.” 
“She mentioned she studied dressage back in the U.S. and was thrilled to learn that Marabelle was quite proficient. That skill could come in handy for the team.” Liam pondered aloud. 
“Sophie is a skilled rider, and she would be a terrific addition to the team, Li.” 
“I can't wait to see her ride again," Liam responded, smiling,
"Uh huh, I'm sure you'll have a lot of fun," Drake smirked. 
Liam sighed, shaking his head. "Not everything has to be a double entendre, Drake." 
"I know, but it's so much more fun that way," he cheekily responded.
University of Cordonia, Capital 
"I can't believe it's been a week since the New Year's Ball," Sophie exclaimed, taking a bite of her sandwich. "Time seems to be flying by." 
"I know," Maxwell replied, stirring his salad. "I feel like I need to plan the next Beaumont Bash already!" 
Sophie laughed. "Do you ever stop thinking about these events?" 
"Not when there's so much work to do to organize," Maxwell grinned. "But that's what makes me so good at it." 
"You certainly are, but Max, this is your last semester...don't start something you can't finish." 
“I don’t have to worry about my grades; I have already met the requirement to graduate with honors.” 
"I've been thinking," Maxwell said, a mischievous glint in his eye, "about a different theme for the next Beaumont Bash after my graduation." 
"And what theme were you thinking about having?" Sophie asked, knowing exactly what was coming. 
"I'm going to make it a costume ball!" 
"I knew it! That sounds like so much fun," Sophie grinned. 
"It will be, and you'll be celebrating your first-year anniversary as a Cordonian.” 
"Of course, I'll be there.” 
"So, how are things with Liam going?" Maxwell asked, his eyes twinkling. 
"Good," Sophie blushed. "We had a great time at the New Year's Ball." 
"Did you have a good time, or 'a good time'?" Maxwell waggled his eyebrows. 
"Maxwell!" 
"Okay, okay. I will not push."
"What did I miss?" Daniel asked, as he grabbed a chair to sit down. 
"Sophie was just telling me about her New Year's kiss with Liam," Maxwell winked. 
"Ooh, do tell." 
"There's nothing to tell," Sophie laughed, her cheeks burning. 
"Come on, Soph, give us all the deets," Daniel prodded. 
"Fine. We kissed. It was amazing." 
"I knew it!" Maxwell exclaimed. 
"So, when's the wedding?" Daniel joked. 
"Shut up," Sophie retorted, laughing. 
"Seriously, I'm happy for you. It's been a long time since I've seen you this happy, Squirrel." 
"Thanks, Daniel." 
"So, how are you doing with your Dad coming back tomorrow, Max?" Daniel inquired. 
"I'm okay. I mean, I am glad he is better. But I do not know if I am ready to face him yet.” 
"It's still so weird to me that you and Sophie are related." 
"Yeah, it's a small world," Maxwell chuckled. 
"No kidding. So, what is the deal with your Dad, anyway? What was he doing all that time?" 
"He was in a coma," Maxwell replied, his voice soft. 
"Oh, shit. I am so sorry, Max." 
"It's okay. It's just..." Maxwell paused, looking uncomfortably at his hands. 
"What?" 
"It's hard to know what to believe, you know? After everything he put us through." 
"I get that. But don't forget, he's still your Dad."
"He was a shit one, though," Maxwell pointed out. 
Sophie put her hand on Daniel’s arm, “Let’s change the conversation, Dan.” 
"It’s all right. I always knew that I would have to deal with it eventually. But right now, I just want to focus on graduating and figuring out my next steps." 
"That sounds like a good plan," Daniel agreed. 
"Yeah. It'll all work out in the end." 
"That's the spirit"  
Daniel slid his binder under his arm, "... see you guys later. Oh, and Max, just remember, you've got this." 
"Thanks, man." 
Maxwell watched his friend leave, feeling grateful for the support. 
"He's right, you know," Sophie began. 
"About what?" Maxwell looked at Sophie 
"You've got this. No matter what happens with your father, you will be okay. You're stronger than you realize." 
Maxwell sighed. "I know you are right. I am also grateful that Mom will be there as a buffer for you." 
Sophie wrapped her arm around him. 
"It will be fine. 
Now, let's get to class before we're late." 
Sophie and Maxwell walked together out of the dining hall to their next classes, feeling bolstered by each other's support. 
Cordonian Royal Palace 
King Constantine sat in his study, staring out the window.   
After hearing the devastating prognosis about his health from his personal physician, he directed his queen to track down and summon Leo as soon as possible. Regina, to her credit, tried to assuage her stepson’s concerns as to Constantine's urgency when she found him in the palace gymnasium.
However, Leo knew that his father would not have requested his presence so suddenly unless the news was dire. 
Constantine stood up as Leo and Regina walked into his office, his posture stiff, his face grim. 
Leo looked at his father and at once sensed the seriousness of the situation. 
"Father, you wanted to see me?" 
"Yes, son," Constantine said, his voice low. "I'm afraid I have received some rather unpleasant news." 
"What is it?" Leo asked, his concern piqued. 
"I've just come from a meeting with the royal doctors, and they've given me a prognosis." 
"Prognosis?" 
"Yes," Constantine said, his expression darkening. "They've determined that my health has deteriorated to the point where I can no longer carry out my duties as king." 
Leo's blood ran cold. He knew what was coming next.
"W-what are you saying?" 
"I'm saying that my time as king is over. And yours has begun." 
"What?" Leo swallowed loudly. 
"You're going to be crowned king, Leo. And you will ascend the throne immediately." 
"I have advised the Prime Minister to make the formal announcement tomorrow morning to the country." 
"I have begun preparations for your Royal wedding to Madeleine as well." Regina added. 
"What? No!" Leo shouted. 
"Calm yourself, Leo," Constantine admonished. 
"How can you ask me to calm down?" Leo demanded, his hands shaking. "You're asking me to give up my life, my freedom. My future." 
"As the Crown Prince, you know your duty to your country is paramount. It is what you have been preparing for since birth." 
"No. I won't do it." Shaking his head from this unexpected shock. 
"Don't be so dramatic, Leo," Regina said, her tone exasperated. "This is your birthright.” 
"It's not drama," Leo insisted. "I will not marry Madeleine. I don't love her. And she doesn't love me." 
"Love has nothing to do with it. You are betrothed to her noble house," Constantine stated. "This is about duty and honor." 
"And I won't be bound by either," Leo declared, his eyes blazing. "If I have to marry her, I'll abdicate. You can't make me be king." 
Constantine's jaw clenched, and he stared at Leo with a mixture of anger and disappointment. 
Leo turned and stormed out of the room, leaving his father and stepmother behind him, fuming. 
Constantine sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "He'll come around, Regina." 
‘It’s hard to be the crowned prince 
When it all hits home 
You can’t hide behind the wall 
Around the throne’ 
💕Thanks for reading
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hrh-the-royals · 9 months
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(Pictured above, royals arrive at Garden Party)
Day 3; Royals step out for a garden party 
Windenburg Times
For day three of the state visit, the royals attended a Garden Party. Though it was a bit cloudy, the day started to brighten up. They took to Berdwardshire Castle, to have a party on the cliffs, with a wonderful view of the sea. 
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For this event, representatives from the royals charities as well as various leaders around the community were invited. It started off with a speech from his King Louis. He thanked everyone for their hard work in doing their part in making this country the best it could be. He also expressed his happiness at not only having the royals as leaders of another nation but as family. 
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King Otto also gave a speech, he thanked the people of Windenburg for welcoming him and his family, although he joked that they were only a generation apart. As it was King Otto’s father King Charles that imitated the splitting of the Kingdom. He said that he enjoying himself in his second home. He was followed by Crown Princess Colette, who remarked that she was happy to take in parts of her family history. 
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After the speech’s everyone sat down to enjoy a lovely meal. The guest were given a choice of four different entries, paired with drinks and a sweet desert. Their Majesty’s as together as well  Crown Prince Levi and Crown Princess Eleanor. It had been dubbed the couple table. Crown Princess Colette, the Duck & Duchess of Rocksavage, The Princess Royale and the Duchess of Albany sat at the other. 
After that, everyone had been free to mingle and talk to each other as the small party ended. 
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Queen Roa and Queen Julia were spotted talking to off to the side. 
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Nothing could be better than an invite from the Crown Princess. The Crown Princess had been caught speaking to the director of one of her patronages. 
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The Garden Party seemed to have ended on a high-note. Tomorrow, the state visit will wrap up with a state dinner, finally, we’ll get to see the royals in all of their pomp. 
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allkinds-oftrash · 1 year
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The Crown S5E9 Commentary
Non-Spoiler Review: THIS EPISODE!! This episode had the Peter Morgan writing I have loved for The Crown since S1 and that went all out in S4. I’ve been missing this spark all season and he FINALLY got it back after 8 episodes - s i r why. So far, this and Mou Mou have been the best written episodes of the season. We deserved more punchy episodes like this especially in highlighting the media war between Diana and Charles. But phew what a way to showcase the end of their marriage. I really really loved the writing of this episode! 
Spoilers Under The Cut 
The fallout of the Interview!! This should be juicy
I always appreciate how Peter Morgan uses other people or events to parallel against what's happening in the family at the time. It's just such a clever narrative device and works every time!
Also ohmygod Couple 31 - they're going to be the 31rd couple on the divorce docket aren't they!
LMAO LIZZIE WROTE THEM A LETTER TELLING THEM TO DIVORCE HSKDHJD Only took you 14 years Lizzie I'm cackling "To request a divorce" HSJDJDJ I CAN'T STOP LAUGHING Like this is so sad but also it was a long time coming and they all deserved to be free from the marriage
Oh nooo Patrick and Dr. Khan WHY 😭😭 Patrick was always there for her too dammit I mean the separation was always going to lead to a divorce Di But I can't help but still feel sad for her sigh Not the fucking press hounding her outside her therapist's office too wtf??? She deserves to drain him for all he's worth Lord knows she'll put that money to good use with her charities more than the BRF ever will
Well Camilla's prophecy from S4 came true - wasn't so much a prophecy but a prediction Girlie is the villian now and being hounded by the press Lmaooo not Charles getting her a PR expert to protect her image
LIZZIE I KNOW YOU'RE NOT MAKING POOR JOHN MAJOR THEIR DIVORCE MEDIATOR SHDKJDJD Mans really became their babysistter-therapist-marriage AND divorce counsellor this season huh This is too funny pls All the previous PMs have had serious political reports to give her And this one who I like the most so far despite him being a Tory, is set up to put out personal fires for the Royal Fam I can't stop laughing Not him listing all the suitable candidates with such obliviousness and then Lizzie drops the bomb hskdjkd
Lizzie: "What about you"
John Major: "Me?"
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I DIED Johnny Lee Miller I LOVE YOU The Crown is ✨a comedy✨ yall Not her comparing this divorce to the conflict in Northern Ireland Elizabeth STOP IT Yeah he is easy to like and trust and I hate it cos he's a TORY Lmao well Lizzie he can't really say no, can he. Who the hell is going to say no to the Queen of England dhdkkds Omg he's into it?? Just cos she used the word umpire John babes don't you have a country to run?? Not his family feeling neglected 💀💀 Occupational Hazard things I guess
This Irish couple is going THROUGH IT Ngl I like these divorce couple breaks in the episode. It's really interesting
Okay Mark stop lying you can hate her too Lmao okay Camilla you made the consistent choice to do so loving him and in the process tagteamed with your lover to bully and manipulate a 19 year old so yall do not get off that easy
God this conversation is depression to watch now that she IS the Q word Also again with the "word" although in this case I get it. Better than the divorce conversations with Andrew dkdkkdkd LMAO THE CALLBACK TO TAMPONGATE I'M SCREAMING God Charles is being such a baby
John Major is really good at this I'm shook Not this motherfucker telling her never to speak publicly abt what she went through Basically paying her off to be silent LMAO DIANA "If he's hoping to stuff my mouth and hoping I gag on it, then that sum better be 8 figures and start with a 3" W H A T A L I N E
Not them sucking up to the Spin Doctor shdkjdd this is so funny
OH this dentist and hygienist's age gap and dynamic is PEAK Diana and Charles This was sad to listen to
Chucky I KNOW you're not flirting with your ex wife right now what is wrong with you Also ALL her looks are iconic "Natural" Okay stfu Chucky Yeah you never said nice things ever Chuck She's right you got everything you ever wanted He's being too nice I do not trust it nor him
Lmaooo he doesn't remember where the kitchen is She's right buddy you were never happy here This is the first time he's ever said anything I agreed with: "Why doesn't one eat scrambled eggs all the time" He's right they are a vibe
Charles: An audit of the marriage Diana: An autopsy I LOVE IT
Holy fuck this is a brilliant piece of writing Just wowow this conversation is so snappy and tight THIS is the kind of writing I've been wanting all season
It might have been mean Di but it's true the mans has always been old He has Old Energy nothing wrong with that jajjsks Lmao she called him old once and he got upset 💀💀
"You do know there was always love there" Okay Mr "Whatever In Love Means" Charles is odd wanting Di to say her name God this is a painful conversation Ofc Chucky is throwing a tantrum Not the "Ask my parents" line 💀💀
Dominic's Charles feels more restraint I can't decide if that's a good or bad Like Josh went OFF Dominic even while yelling doesn't feel as visceral?? This was an autopsy indeed Okay sorry but that was such a bad crying shot - should have just kept it a wide from the start
Lmaooo NOW the divorce court is full of the press after being empty I mean I know why it's just funny it was just the lawyers for the other couples who weren't even there and now the whole court is full They weren't even there 💀💀 Also omg imagine the person finalising THE Wales' divorce - w i l d shit Damn to end it on their wedding procession that was A Choice
Now onto the finale!
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pimpernals · 2 years
Text
ROSE OF VOBUVORIA.
GENERAL.
NAME   anna josephine rose hélène beaubois (nee sherington-maret)
ALIASES   rose, rosie
AGE   18-30+
BIRTHDATE   7/16/1765
GENDER   cisfemale
SEXUALITY   hetreosexual
STATUS   married
ETHNICITY   white
NATIONALITY   iconvenian
BIRTHPLACE   iconven
RESIDENCE   vobuvoria
OCCUPATION   princess consort/queen consort
PHYSICAL.
HEIGHT   5’4”
WEIGHT   100lbs
BODY TYPE   slim
SKIN TONE   fair
HAIRSTYLE   curly
HAIR COLOR   blonde
EYE COLOR   blue
SCARS   a few
FACECLAIM   kristen dunst
PERSONALITY.
TRAITS   tba.
HABITS   tba.
HOBBIES   tba.
FEARS   disappointing loved ones
FAMILY.
FATHER   john alastair george james sherington-meret
MOTHER   marguerite ines sherington-meret
SISTER   tba.
BROTHER   tba.
OTHER   king leonoard thomas marcel sherington-meret 
EXTRA.
MBTI   esfp - t
ENNEAGRAM   tba.
ALIGNMENT   lawful good
HISTORY.
*warnings for miscarriage, pregnancy, death.
rosie was born to prince george and princess marguerite of iconven, a sunny morning in july. her mother was a count’s daughter from france and her father’s brother was the king. a health condition prevented him from having an heir of his own. for this reason, a son was wanted. but her parents loved their daughter. rosie was educated by a governess. more children joined the family. in all, rosie had six siblings, two of which being twins. she loved art and fell in love with fashion. when rosie turned eighteen, her uncle found a suitable husband for her. from a young age, rosie was told she was required to keep her country happy. as much as she didn’t want to, she agreed to the marriage. she met duke sebastian wakefield (who was in his mid-fifties) before the match was announced to the public. only a few weeks afterwards, the duke died. alarmed, her uncle found another match for her. prince matthieu of neighboring country, vobuvaria. he was a year her senior, a much more appropriate match with better circumstances for all. she met her future husband at a ball. matthieu was shy, blushing every time he spoke to rosie. the wedding was a few weeks later, forcing rosie to say goodbye to her family and country. she started sobbing halfway through the vows. her uncle was humiliated and scolded her afterward. her mother warned her about the wedding night, how she must do her duty as the wife. however, nothing happened that night. her mother gently sat her down to give some advice. weeks later, rosie broke under all the pressure and “seduced” her husband.
rosie tries her best in her new kindom. it’s hard to be without her parents. only six months after the wedding, she learned her father was dead. matthieu, understanding the pain of loosing a loved one, was extremely supportive. the couple bounded during the time of mourning. after her father’s death, rosie found out she was pregnant. her uncle and husband’s family were pleased. however, the joy didn’t last long. she lost the baby. seeing her daughter under so much stress, she has her come home for a few months. the break was much needed. rosie came back as her old self. by the next year, rosie was pregnant. she was extremely concerned this time and refused to leave her bed, believing physical activity was what caused her to miscarry.it took lots of prying from midwives, doctors and her husband to get her out of bed. the pregnancy was very hard for rosie. after a traumatic delivery, the child is born healthy. a daughter, named elodie after matthieu’s late grandmother. rosie became a fashion icon. she adored bright, pastel colors, popularizing them. yellow fever spreads throughout the palace, infecting the royal family. rosie’s worst fear was losing another baby. she focused everything on making sure elodie got better. fortunately, mattheiu, rosie and elodie survive. however, his mother and her husband do not.
rose and mattheiu took the crown. she hated all the responsibility put on her shoulders. charity work was her main concern. rumors of rebellion sprang up, but other politicians and advisors assured them it was nothing. although matthieu admitted he was becoming suspicious of one of their advisors, Lord Eade who seemed to be making decisions that would only benefit him. matthieu talked to his advisors about it, though he was left in the dark. rosie tires to comfort her husband. she tries to avoid politics as much as she can, since she hates it. rosie gives birth to another girl. they call her lisette, after matthieu’s mother. rosie stressed over not having a son, but matthieu adored his daughters. there was time to have an heir. an uprising began. rosie remained calm and elegant to others. she threw a ball, inviting everyone who could dress for it. the people were angry at this. since the only people who could dress for it, were wealthy. rosie’s health struggled under all the stress. matthieu asked countless doctors to look after her. however, there was hardly anything they could do. when an angry mod broke into the palace, the royal family was put into hiding. rosie suffered another miscarriage. but she and matthieu kept hoping things will go back to the way they were.
0 notes
gathersroses · 2 years
Text
ROSE OF VOBUVORIA.
GENERAL.
NAME   anna josephine rose hélène beaubois (nee sherington-maret)
ALIASES   rose, rosie
AGE   18-30+
BIRTHDATE   7/16/1765
GENDER   cisfemale
SEXUALITY   hetreosexual
STATUS   married
ETHNICITY   white
NATIONALITY   iconvenian
BIRTHPLACE   iconven
RESIDENCE   vobuvoria
OCCUPATION   princess consort/queen consort
PHYSICAL.
HEIGHT   5’4”
WEIGHT   100lbs
BODY TYPE   slim
SKIN TONE   fair
HAIRSTYLE   curly
HAIR COLOR   blonde
EYE COLOR   blue
SCARS   a few
FACECLAIM   kristen dunst
PERSONALITY.
TRAITS   tba.
HABITS   tba.
HOBBIES   tba.
FEARS   disappointing loved ones
FAMILY.
FATHER   john alastair george james sherington-meret
MOTHER   marguerite ines sherington-meret
SISTER   tba.
BROTHER   tba.
OTHER   king leonoard thomas marcel sherington-meret 
EXTRA.
MBTI   esfp - t
ENNEAGRAM   tba.
ALIGNMENT   lawful good
HISTORY.
*warnings for miscarriage, pregnancy, death.
rosie was born to prince george and princess marguerite of iconven, a sunny morning in july. her mother was a count’s daughter from france and her father’s brother was the king. a health condition prevented him from having an heir of his own. for this reason, a son was wanted. but her parents loved their daughter. rosie was educated by a governess. more children joined the family. in all, rosie had six siblings, two of which being twins. she loved art and fell in love with fashion. when rosie turned eighteen, her uncle found a suitable husband for her. from a young age, rosie was told she was required to keep her country happy. as much as she didn’t want to, she agreed to the marriage. she met duke sebastian wakefield (who was in his mid-fifties) before the match was announced to the public. only a few weeks afterwards, the duke died. alarmed, her uncle found another match for her. prince matthieu of neighboring country, vobuvaria. he was a year her senior, a much more appropriate match with better circumstances for all. she met her future husband at a ball. matthieu was shy, blushing every time he spoke to rosie. the wedding was a few weeks later, forcing rosie to say goodbye to her family and country. she started sobbing halfway through the vows. her uncle was humiliated and scolded her afterward. her mother warned her about the wedding night, how she must do her duty as the wife. however, nothing happened that night. her mother gently sat her down to give some advice. weeks later, rosie broke under all the pressure and “seduced” her husband.
rosie tries her best in her new kindom. it’s hard to be without her parents. only six months after the wedding, she learned her father was dead. matthieu, understanding the pain of loosing a loved one, was extremely supportive. the couple bounded during the time of mourning. after her father’s death, rosie found out she was pregnant. her uncle and husband’s family were pleased. however, the joy didn’t last long. she lost the baby. seeing her daughter under so much stress, she has her come home for a few months. the break was much needed. rosie came back as her old self. by the next year, rosie was pregnant. she was extremely concerned this time and refused to leave her bed, believing physical activity was what caused her to miscarry.it took lots of prying from midwives, doctors and her husband to get her out of bed. the pregnancy was very hard for rosie. after a traumatic delivery, the child is born healthy. a daughter, named elodie after matthieu’s late grandmother. rosie became a fashion icon. she adored bright, pastel colors, popularizing them. yellow fever spreads throughout the palace, infecting the royal family. rosie’s worst fear was losing another baby. she focused everything on making sure elodie got better. fortunately, mattheiu, rosie and elodie survive. however, his mother and her husband do not.
rose and mattheiu took the crown. she hated all the responsibility put on her shoulders. charity work was her main concern. rumors of rebellion sprang up, but other politicians and advisors assured them it was nothing. although matthieu admitted he was becoming suspicious of one of their advisors, Lord Eade who seemed to be making decisions that would only benefit him. matthieu talked to his advisors about it, though he was left in the dark. rosie tires to comfort her husband. she tries to avoid politics as much as she can, since she hates it. rosie gives birth to another girl. they call her lisette, after matthieu’s mother. rosie stressed over not having a son, but matthieu adored his daughters. there was time to have an heir. an uprising began. rosie remained calm and elegant to others. she threw a ball, inviting everyone who could dress for it. the people were angry at this. since the only people who could dress for it, were wealthy. rosie’s health struggled under all the stress. matthieu asked countless doctors to look after her. however, there was hardly anything they could do. when an angry mod broke into the palace, the royal family was put into hiding. rosie suffered another miscarriage. but she and matthieu kept hoping things will go back to the way they were.
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kingliam2019 · 2 years
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I Know You’re Out There Somewhere 5
Gabrielle has been gone 6 months and now at 8 months pregnant Clara has made her slow down and lessened her workload, to 2 days a week. Sitting in her office and just doing minimal computer file work. At her last Dr. appointment, she was told that the baby was fine and progressing well, which made her happy. And was told to expect back aches and rest as much as possible. Her back has been hurting more and more and no amount of heating pads and soft pillows would ease the pain, the only thing would help was a nice warm bath, which she took nightly. Sometimes while relaxing her mind would wonder to Cordonia and Liam and her friends and how she just left, but she was pissed after Madeline showed up to her door the next day and said Liam proposed, she should have confronted him right then and there after Madeline left her room but she knew that’s what King Father and Godfrey wanted, they didn’t want an outsider, someone living from paycheck to paycheck to rule their country, hell maybe they thought she was a Crown chaser who wanted the rich life knowing that she would never want again and run the Country to the ground and go spend crazy and be a modern day Mary Queen of Scots, but she wasn’t like that, growing up not poor, but worked to get by she knew what it was like to go without, so she would have never been like that. She wanted to help and turn around the Country, Help the poor, and homeless and make sure all children had a warm home and adopted parents who loved them as their own, hell if it came to it, she would have talked to Liam about having them work at the palace, even if it were to clean the dungeons. But that’s all water under the bridge, she has a great job, a great place to live and is surrounded by beautiful co-workers.
The day after Bas left Leo’s Quarter’s with the information on Tariq being in the Sonoma Valley, Madeleine did some investigating into the area. Bas was nice but he did things old school, not relying on computer’s, he called in favor’s making other people do the work while he came out reaping the benefits, hell just about the only thing he was good for was his fighting skills. After some computer digging, she made a few calls to get her plan in motion.
Drake, Olivia and Maxwell were with Liam trying to help keep his mind from wandering to Riley, they convinced him to start eating more and drinking less, that his country was falling apart and needed their King back, Leo could do so much as King Regent, so with their help, meetings were made, charities were back to being cared for and the people were starting to rally around their King. He and Drake were in the gym more. Every time Liam wanted to drown himself in booze to rid his pain of Riley not being there, they were in the gym, either exercising or honing up on their fighting skills. “How ya holding up there Liam feeling better? I don’t want to wear ya out.” “Na man I’m good, I feel really good actually, thanks for this Drake it does really take my mind off things.” Sitting in the Sauna relaxing after a workout, Liam stretched out on the bench, Drake sitting with his head thrown back stretching his back, Liam turned to Drake with a look of guilt, he sighed softly.” Drake, I wanted to thank you for helping me get out of my funk, I know that you and Max and Liv and Leo and Bas have been helping in finding Riley, I know I should be helping too but I was just so caught up in my own self at her leaving and the stupid thing I did by kissing Madeline, but we were all so drunk, I’m not mad at her for kissing you,” “ Li I’m sorry man I didn’t know she was going to do that…” Liam held up his hand stopping Drake from going on. “I know man, I know but like I said I’m not mad at either of you, I was going to her room the next day to apologize after I woke up, but when I got there, she was gone. I found out what Madeline did that morning telling Riley that I proposed, I went to confront her, I went to her room and knocked on her door wanting to give her a real good tongue lashing for what she did, but when she opened the door, she crumbled at my feet with her head in her hands sobbing and telling me how sorry she was. I took in her disheveled appearance; I saw the honesty in her eyes.” He blew out a breath and shook his head. Looking back at Drake before adding more water to the stones. Drake raked his fingers through his hair. “Do you believe her Li? I mean come on its Madeline, we all know she’s as calculating and as cunning as they come, could have been another act? I mean …”
“ No Drake she was sincere, she never wanted the crown, she just joined the season because Regina and my father, (and I use that name loosely,) didn’t want her to get hurt like my mother did, which is bullshit to me but anyway yea I do believe her, she told me while we were on the tour she found someone with whom had his eye on her for some time, and they have been seeing each other when they could.” Drake’s eyes were wide while his jaw hit the floor… “Wait What? Are you serious?” “Yea she told me that the night we all went out to the beer garden, she was leaving Cordonia to go live with him and wanted to see where it could go.” “Wow Li just…. WOW. okay, care to share who?” “Um yea ya ready for this? Franchesco.
@ao719 @bebepac @the-soot-sprite @angryschnauzer @bobasheebaby @txemrn @dcbbw @queenrileyrose @kingliamandriley @hertzwritings @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @fictionloveevie @kat-tia801 @sirbeepsalot @twinkleallnight @busywoman
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amphtaminedreams · 3 years
Text
Sitting Front Row at...(On a Budget Obvs): Lookbook no.15
Hey to anyone reading!
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And welcome to my fave lookbook I’ve done in a longggg ass time! Yes, that’s partially because it involved making collages and doing the low effort work of scouring Vogue Runway for “research purposes”, but I promise, that statement wasn’t made out of COMPLETE laziness-I am super happy with it too. It’s been a good use of pre-part-lockdown-lift time in the interim between that brief period of Christmas celebrations and eateries finally fucking opening again because let’s be honest, I always knew I was gonna get distracted by oat milk vanilla lattes and veggie all day breakfasts once I could actually sit down with them at my fave local cafe. You could say I was very much operating on a self-imposed deadline.
The “what I would wear to sit front row at...[insert designer here]” TikTok/Instagram reel trend was something I wanted to get on board with ever since I first saw one and whilst the option of doing my own live action take-I really cannot bear the thought of having to edit footage of myself awkwardly attempting to sit nonchalantly in front of a camera for hours on end-was off the cards considering my complete lack of screen presence, I decided a Tumblr text post would work just as well, and if not even better in a way. Given the absence of the time limitations you face when you’re making a reel or a TikTok I thought it’d be cool to present the looks as part of a mini moodboard for each designer which adds a bit of context to each look even if you aren’t familiar with their past collections and establishes the general vibe of the brand I’m attempting to replicate. Not to sound snotty or as if I am the font of all knowledge on anything high fashion related but even with my amateur knowledge I noticed that as the video trend took off and was adopted by big name influencers, it became less about the average person putting their own personal spin on the aesthetic of the labels we can’t ordinarily afford and more about them building outfits that only vaguely resemble the general public perception of the brand around the real corresponding (and often gifted and thus inaccessible to someone who doesn’t makes thousands for a sponsored post) pieces they own SO I thought I’d take the trend back to its roots and get a bit resourceful. All that being said, in no particular order, here are the outfits I would wear to sit front row at Gucci, Vera Wang, Miu-Miu, Marc Jacobs, Dolce & Gabbana, Brock Collection, Alexander McQueen, Etro, Burberry aaaand Saint Laurent based on their past collections and guess what? They didn’t cost a shit tonne of money :-)
-disclaimer: will include an asterisk before any new purchases if from a high street store though to be honest, I don’t think there are any, we shall see! I do include where I got old purchases from in case anyone wants to search anything on Depop/Ebay-
1. Saint Laurent (formerly Yves Saint Laurent)
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-blazer from identityparty on Depop, pleather trousers from Zara, jewellery from Dolls Kill-
I know technically abbreviating Saint Laurent to YSL doesn’t really make much sense anymore given the brand’s name change in 2012, but I’ll always think of it as that in the same way I’ll always associate it with the slightly dishevelled yet simultaneously glitzy rock n’ roll aesthetic. The thing is, whilst YSL hasn’t done anything wildly out of the box for a long time, it’s rare they put a look on the runway that I wouldn’t wear; they never end up being a fashion week standout but the Parisienne take on grunge we’ve seen Anthony Vaccarello establish as his go-to will always have a place in my heart. 
2. Alexander McQueen
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-embroidered leather jacket from Ebay (originally Topshop), harness from Amazon, dress from ASOS, boots from Koi Vegan Footwear-
Alexander McQueen is a brand that is pretty much universally liked, from the historically extravagant and groundbreaking shows the man himself put together to Sarah Burton’s more toned down but still beautiful collections. Obviously I didn’t attempt to do justice to the former, so I tried my hand at putting together a look inspired by Sarah’s blend of delicate femininity and nomadic edge, and it went...okay? Like it’s definitely not my favourite of all the looks because it does give off slightly cheap copycat vibes buuut outside of the context of this lookbook it’s cute.
3. Brock Collection
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-boater hat from Ebay, midi skirt from morganogle on Depop, corset top from ownmode_, heels from amybeckett1, bag from Primark-
Brock isn’t as well known a brand as most of the others in this list but I adore everything Laura Vassar Brock does and I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to try and channel the vision of one of the OG pioneers of the cottagecore vibe through my own wardrobe. I mean fr, this woman’s work as a steady provider of meadow photoshoot worthy dresses and corsets and skirts is v slept on and I will not stand for it. I will sit in front of a camera and then write a paragraph in my blog post begging anybody who reads to give LVB (an abbreviation I acknowledge is unlikely to catch on because Lisa Vanderpump anybody?) some form of acknowledgement for her services to period romance novel inspired moodboards everywhere.
4. Marc Jacobs
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-coat from House of Sunny, white shirt from Retro World Camden, co-ord from Sugar Thrillz, bag from Poppy Lissiman-
If there’s one thing Marc Jacobs always does, it’s COMMITS. TO. HIS. THEME. I just KNOW he has a secret Pinterest with separate boards for every fashion era of the 20th century and he is putting those boards to good use providing us with collections that are as immersive as they are eclectic year in year out. 
5. Miu Miu
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-beret from H&M, hair clips from H&M, jewellery from Primark, coat from mollyyemmaa on Depop, shirt from YesStyle, sweater vest from YesStyle, skirt from Depop, diamanté belt from Brandy Melville, shoes from Koi Vegan Footwear-
We all like to talk about Bratz dolls and Monster High dolls and Barbies as fashion inspo but can we all focus on Cabbage Patch dolls for two secs so as to acknowledge the fact that a Miu Miu collection is basically all their fits grown up? And made boujie as fuck? If I want my fix of Wes Anderson meets Scream Queens (what a combo) inspired outfits, if I want prissy and girlish but also glam, if I want to look like a bratty rich girl whose one redeeming quality is her eye for vintage clothes, I know where to look and that is the Miu Miu section of Vogue Runway. 
6. Vera Wang
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-blazer as in no.1, velvet bralet from catdegaris on Depop, harness from Amazon, skirt from Ebay, knee high socks from Ebay, lace up boots from Ebay-
Vera Wang’s RTW aesthetic, a blend of the ethereal, ultra-feminine bridal designs she’s known for and British style punk rock influences, is something I feel has only become firmly established in recent years but it is everything I ever wanted and more. I always find myself trying to balance the part of me that loves everything girly and delicate and pretty and the part of me that would love to be in a biker gang and Vera’s collections are always an inspirational reminder of just how well it can be done.
7. Burberry
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-coat from charity shop, suit from emmafisher3 on Depop, top from simranindia, shirt underneath from Zara, jewellery from ASOS-
Now I’m not gonna lie, I’m not the biggest fan of Burberry but there have been a few looks over the past few years I’ve really liked and as someone who owns numerous trench coats, high necks and way too much plaid, I thought it’d be an easy one to replicate. Plus, if you can count on Riccardo Tisci for nothing else you at least can rely on him giving you some layering inspo which is very much needed in a country where it literally just snowed in April and where my plans for today have just been cancelled because the iPhone weather app did a Karen Smith and didn’t predict rain for today right up until it started raining so thanks for that one British meteorologists. Your incompetence strikes again.
8. Etro
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-corset from Urban Outfitters, vinyl trench coat from Topshop, boots from Ebay, black slip dress from kaoanaoleinik on Depop, fur trim afghan coat from louisemarcella-
Like with Brock Collection, Etro isn’t a hugely well known brand, but it is always one of my favourites-to add a spanner into the works of any attempts to cultivate a firm sense of personal style, I live for the ornate Bohemian look that Etro does so well just as much as I love both grungy and girly pieces, and so I really wanted to include a brand whose collections go down that route. It was a toss-up between this and Zimmerman, the flirtier, free spirit counterpart to the dark romance of Veronica Etro’s designs; her vision really shines through the most when it comes to the brand’s winter collections, imo, and given that I live in a country where winter or some weather state resembling it does seem to take up 70% of the year, I did decide on channelling her work rather than that of the equally talented Nicky and Simone Zimmermann this time round.
9. Dolce & Gabbana
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-flower crown from ASOS, tiara from Amazon, earrings from YesStyle, dress from alicealderdice1 on Depop, opera gloves from Ebay, boots from Koi Vegan Footwear-
D&G is a brand I felt really conflicted about doing-I don’t include their current collections in my fashion week reviews based on the actions of designers Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce over the last few years because I don’t want to mitigate the collective effort of fashion critics to push them towards irrelevancy. Though people like to claim the brand has turned a corner since Lucio Di Rosa was brought on board as the manager of celebrity and VIP relations last year (they are as prolific a force on red carpet fashion as ever), we haven’t seen any real meaningful apologies or reparations made by Dolce and Gabbana themselves which once again leaves us in the all too familiar quandary of whether or not we can separate the art from the artist especially when it is far too much of a simplification to only credit the two men for their work given there’s a whole design team behind them. There are a LOT of shitty people working in fashion, the whole industry is a bit of a cesspit if we’re honest, but I don’t think that should stop us from at least being able to appreciate old collections if we make sure we aren’t engaging in any kind of promotion of current works whilst doing so. D&G are a brand of high highs and low lows, with looks that range from hideously ugly to showstoppingly beautiful in a single show-when the looks are good, they are GOOD-and their presence in the fashion world is most definitely felt whether we want it to be or not. It would just be shit to refuse to recognise the existence of some real iconic runway moments, the practical work that went into the ornate detail and opulence that helped cement D&Gs place in sartorial history, the styling that’s made goddesses and fairytale queens out of modern day women as they’ve glided down catwalks, the far more extravagant and, let’s be real, sexier version of our world D&G shows have transported us to in the past. Will I talk about D&G ever again? No, and if you Google the scandals their brand has faced over the past few years, there are more than enough reasons why, but just this once I did want to pay homage to some of the collections, the snippets of which I saw on my Tumblr dashboard back when I was about 13, that first got me into fashion.
10. Gucci
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-fur coat from Topshop, clips from Zaful, glasses from Ebay, dress from gracewright246 on Depop, shirt from Boohoo, blazer from charity shop-
Now last but, if you ever read any of my fashion week reviews (the likelihood of someone actually having read one of them and reading this is incredibly, incredibly slim lol, I wouldn’t read me either) you’ll know, definitely not least, is Gucci because Alessandro Michele comes through every!! single!! time!!
The man is truly the king of quirky throwback maximalism and it hurts my heart that a lot of people seem to think of it only as a brand associated with ostentatious displays of wealth. Year after year since Michele was made creative director he has released purposeful, fully-fleshed out collections which unravel themselves to us on the runway like time capsules containing the belongings of the rich and whimsical and yes that can sometimes result in outfits which are *ahem* a bit mismatched but it doesn’t matter because through fashion he manages to take us to a vivid version of the past where people could dress as freely and lavishly as they wanted to, into the wardrobe of a person unaffected by the side-eyeing of others. You get the impression he doesn’t design so much as plays around with some kind of enchanted dress up box and takes inspiration from there and to give that impression is only a credit to his talent-to make outfits so kooky and extravagant look like they were meant to be takes a boldness and genuine love for clothes that I do tend to feel a lot of the big name designers have lost in the pursuit of profit and the necessary placating of the dying customer base that keeps that coming in. Of course I'm not for a second saying Gucci does not care about profit, but at the very least, they have on board a creative director who genuinely has fun with what they’re putting out there and wants to make a statement too and that really shows; you can rest on your laurels and sell tweed boucle jackets to rich old white women for eternity but nobody’s going to mention your brand name and the word groundbreaking in the same sentence ever again unless they’re talking about what it was a century ago, you know (mentioning no names...unless...did I hear someone say Chanel)? That feels like such a shady way to end, lol, but I’m sure said brand will survive-to be fair, they’ve been included in every other What I’d Wear to Sit Front Row At video I’ve seen so although I’m always slagging them off for doing the saaaaame thinggggg year after year, for that same reason their aesthetic is instantly recognisable and so will always be a source of imitation. There are obviously pros and cons to being a brand which constantly reinvents itself but I think it’s totally possible to do that whilst maintaining an overall mission, and Alessandro Michele’s work at Gucci demonstrates that with ease.
Anyway, if you got to here, thanks for reading! I know I’m super behind on this whole TikTok trend and I know a Tumblr post instead of a video is a bit of a cop out but all the real, physically awkward ones out there know that watching yourself back is excruciating lmao, so I hope this does the trick. After this, I’m gonna get back to the reviewing S/S21 collections post though knowing me I’ll probs take a few days to get back into that because I feel like since I left full-time education (RIP me going back in a few months) writing continuously like this for any longer than about 15 mins fries what brain cells I have left. Again, thank you for reading and if you are, sending many good vibes your way! Stay safe!
Lauren x
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disenchantedhq · 3 years
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AURADON CITY: THE CAPITAL OF THE UNITED KINGDOM
Auradon City was once a broken down old parrish where an abandoned palace sat but following the Cauldron War, His Majesty King Adam had decided to rebuild upon the barren town bones to create a city of such magnificence and splendor which could be seen from the southern foreign lands. It is the stronghold of The United Kingdom of Auradon, its most crowning achievement, and it is here that the royal palace was constructed. It had taken twelve years of nonstop building, starting in 1801, and has since become the permanent home of the royal family. Split into Eight Districts, each boasting their own unique businesses and points of interest, it stands as the largest city in all the land. Between the shopping of Centre Commercial, the entertainment of Upper District, the magic of the Enchanted Hills, and the pristine townhomes of the Garden District, there is much to be seen in Auradon — even in its Low Town and Seaside Ridge districts, which boast some of the best foods (and admittedly seedier delights). Welcome to Auradon City; we hope you have a splendid visit.
Below the cut is a tour of all eight districts of Auradon City, as well as information on the 22 points of interest labeled on the map. Starting here on it is suggested you mention location/time frame of your threads based in and around the city. Characters are free to journey to any district, with the exception of the Garden District which is home of the nobility and the only gated district in the city. Refer to the information below for more help in understanding the city and its layout. And as always — reach out should you have any questions.
THE ROYAL PALACE
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Slightly off center from the city, where the gated Garden District and Central Auradon meet, lays the Royal Palace. Home to their Majesties King Adam and Queen Belle, and their daughter Her Royal Highness Princess Emma, Auradon Palace is the newest castle in all of Auradon. While there was the abandoned Catherine Palace in the north of the city, King Adam and Queen Belle desired to create a brand new home to raise their family and rule over their citizens. It is what took up the majority of the twelve year construction project to create the capitol, and prior to its construction the family lived at either the chateau or King Adam’s former castle by the Enchanted Forest. At approximately 680,000 square feet, it is the largest palace in the entire continent. With a large guarded gate around it, and vast gardens between, it is an impressive sight to see from beyond, though few have been close. In the early days of Auradon, the King and Queen allowed for the citizens to come and visit frequently, to stroll the gardens and even tour the halls, particularly to spend time in the grand ballrooms (of which there are four within) and the library. But in recent times the gates closed off to the public as concerns over the royal family’s safety came into question. With over 2,300 rooms, 2,000 windows, 1,250 chimneys, and 67 grand stair cases, it is considered the most impressive architecture in all of Auradon and is home to many yearly events such as Queen Belle’s Ball, the Yuletide Ball, Rose Day Festivities, and much more. To get an audience in the castle is highly rare — state business is conducted often at The University or even at Queen Belle’s Chateau. Along its border gates are four guard houses where the elite members of the Royal Guard are housed on duty, with the castle grounds having a 24/7 security intel of over 100 guards on the grounds, spread throughout.
GARDEN DISTRICT
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Despite its name, the Garden District actually lacks in gardens but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a colorful nor beautiful sight. The only district in the city, aside from the palace, which has a gated perimeter (of which it shares gates with the palace) the Garden District is home to the other former royals of Auradon, those who relinquished their crowns for lesser titles when uniting the kingdoms in one grand country. At least, when they gather in town. With rows upon rows of gorgeous town homes, the sizes of which are far more impressive than meets the eye, the Garden District is the one district that is quiet for half the year. It becomes let when the social season begins and the noble families travel from their various home territories to the city to mingle. The townhomes have been built in likeness, tall and narrow from the outside, but deep and long, with balconies and tall windows from which the nobles may look outside onto the well polished paved roads. The fronts are beautiful colors, pastels that befit the families within, and from the back they have long lush backyards which many have manicured in the stylish designed gardens of the palace. Carriages are rare within the Garden District, where most walk around on foot, gayly greeting their neighbors. Gentlemen callers step into the charming stylish salons to call upon the refined ladies, who sit by the windows as they needle point. There are few buildings outside of the homes within the Garden District, and as such it is the smallest district within. The closer your home is to the castle, the higher your status. As such, the three Dukes and their families have town houses which are slightly larger and grander by the gates closest to the castle. The Earls are placed near to them, and the Viscounts and Barons are the furthest housed from the castle on the noble lines. On the northeastern end, facing the N. Rue De Destin you can find the untitled members of society in town homes which are still brightly colored but are all a bit smaller than the noble town homes. And on the north western side, facing Upper District you can find a few social clubs for men and women alike to attend, one public garden (though private to the citizens of the gates) and an assembly room for small gatherings of the Garden Elite.
CENTRE COMMERCIAL
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Sitting to the east of Town Square and the Garden District, and bordered by the outer city tenet farmer lands, is the Centre Commercial. As it’s name suggests, this district is where the vendors and tradesmen of Auradon have settled. While there are small stylish apartments, it is known mostly for its Rue de Magasins where the most frequented shops for noblemen and women alike are situated. The most skilled Modiste in all of Auradon City can be found here, conveniently just a couple blocks away from the Garden District gates. Young ladies are constantly floating in and out of there, wearing the latest fashions and trends which originate right here in the capitol city. Its seamstress is the most heavily regarded in all of Auradon, and she makes her clothing with fine needle and the assistance of only the most skilled birds and mice in all the kingdom. Likewise the ‘Chip in a Cup’ Tea Shoppe can be found nearby, and is considered one of the prime cafes to take a sweetheart to when you wish to be unsupervised in public. Just outside of the Garden District Gates along Evermore Parkway sits a Gentlemen’s Club, a private society club for the noblemen to mingle and jest. While it is rumored some nefarious dealings happen within the clubhouse, it is overall a pristine company which devotes itself to charity and good works. Along with these hot spots there is a general shop, bakery, blacksmith, cobbler, and artisan guild centered here, among many other restaurants and shopping experiences. Centre Commercial’s motto is this — should you desire it, then you will surely find it right here!
LOW TOWN
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The southeastern most district in Auradon City, Low Town earned its name and reputation from a number of sources. Primarily because it is “lower” than the other districts, both physically and socially (though the beaches of seaside ridge are more southern), but also because of its poor maintenance and dense poor population which gives the overall district a less than savory public image. Similar to its neighboring Old Town, Low Town has cobbled streets which would be charming if they were cleaned and swept more often. While society on the other districts is more polite and the streets better taken care of, Low Town is full of foul mouthed sailors and vagrants that relieve themselves on the side of the road and who toss chamber pots from their second or third story windows. Most of Low Town is made up of banged up tenement houses and run down older buildings from prior to Auradon City’s construction. Housing the most docks on Auradon City’s coast, it’s one of the first places where poor foreigners dock when they wish to move to the city or see it. Among its points of interest are some seedier places, such as the Poison Apple Pub, oldest pub in the entire city which is hidden in a twisting alleyway, and a Brothel which is run by a Madam Plaisir and is said to be somewhere among the broken down buildings by the docks. Most of the Royal Guard and Royal Navy men can be seen patrolling the streets, supposedly on duty, keeping the citizens of Low Town ‘in line’, though they’re also known to frequent the establishments there — you can especially see the former at Madam Plaisir’s following a long voyage at sea. Any form of deviant behavior and entertainment exists here. Rumor has it that there is another private underground club, for those of certain persuasions which may not feel comfortable expressing themselves publicly just yet to meet other likeminded individuals, but its not public knowledge whether this place exists let alone where it may exist. It is also in this district where the Shadowborn boarding houses are, just by the border of Low Town and Town Square where they were first presented.
OLD TOWN
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Old Town is the oldest and mostly untouched part of Auradon City, with the exception of preservationists who try to keep it looking relatively nice. It borders the tenet farms and is less city than any of the other parts. More so a widely spread country parish, it’s the quaintest area in all of Auradon City. Old Town doesn’t boast many things of interest — there is the old Hall of Records here (though most relevant documentation is now housed at the University) and there are a couple older shoppes and a general store there. Among its more interesting finds is a large Farmers Market where the tenet farmers come to sell their stock, and then the most frequented stop of all is Maurice’s Emporium, a large and odd looking workshop run by the Queen’s aging commoner father. Here one can get a glimpse of the sort of mechanics and curiosities that will ‘become the norm’ of the future, all done at the hands of the master scientist and inventor. Aside from that oddity, Old Town is also home to the only orphanage in all of Auradon: Granny Willow’s Home for Orphaned Children. The orphans are known for wearing long red capes (for girls) or coats (for boys) and can often be seen walking single file through the village. They rarely visit the city itself, but make occasional trips to see the shoppes or catch a concert whenever the royal family is generous enough to pay entry for them. Old Town is mostly quiet, a small taste of country living within the borders of the big city, and is a great place to go for a little stroll or to get away from the hectic frenzy of the city.
SEASIDE RIDGE
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The other southern district to the west of Low Town is the Seaside Ridge. With the eastern coast of it at a higher elevation, on a rocky cliff featuring a single lighthouse, and the western coast a vast sandy beach, Seaside Ridge is the picturesque brother of Low Town. With sand strewn streets lined with darling Tudor homes and colorful “beach houses”, it’s sometimes jokingly called the “mini Tirulia”. Within Seaside Ridge there are two docks which the Royal Navy call their ports, as well as the official entry way for foreign visitors. It is here that the world famous Benbow Inn, run by Sarah Hawkins, sits. Here you can find the best accommodations and breakfast in all of Auradon. But if the shepherd’s pie and in house brewed ale can’t tempt you, then look no further than a few blocks to the east where you can find the Auradon City location of Tiana’s Place — the restaurant owned by Lady Maldonia herself, serving up the Bayou de Orleans’ most cherished dishes, such as gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys and the best beignets in all the continent, at all hours of the day. Tiana’s Place is considered the crème de la crème of fine dining establishments in the entire country, and has only been open for three years now. Aside from the top notch dining, Seaside Ridge’s biggest boast in the long stretch of untouched, undockable sandy beach. A favorite place to take a stroll in the wind sand, or to dip one’s feet into the cool waters of the Audratic Sea; modest “bathing machines” have been showing up on the beach, giving visitors the chance to dress and take a dip in the somewhat murky waters of the southern shore — without the nudity common in Tirulia Beach. Come here to relax and play some cricket or take in the sun and salty sea air.
CENTRAL AURADON
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Central Auradon is, funny enough, not in the center of the city but is still named as the center district. The largest district in all of Auradon City, it is technically the district which houses the royal palace. In Central Auradon there sits two docks which are heavily in use by the Royal Guard, and where foreign dignitaries, such as Imperial China, Agrabah and Kuzcotopia, dock when they are visiting. Here there is a large watch tower run by the Royal Guard, as well as the largest Guard’s Barracks. The latter is often the sight of commoner balls and parties, practically every weekend, which the elite rarely take part in but are known for being the most fun Royal Guardsmen get while on duty in the capitol. A perfect place to go and dance with a sweetheart when royal balls are not scheduled for the upcoming weeks. Aside from the Royal Guard headquarters, Central Auradon is also home to Town Square, a lot mostly in the center of all districts where a large statue of King Adam sits, watching over the citizens of Auradon City with a noble scowl. The statue itself is enchanted, being able to shift between the king’s human and beast forms, and is made of a shimmery almost iridescent stone. It was a gift from the Emperor of China following the incorporation of the city and has sat in town square since 1814, one year after the city’s official opening. Further west of town square lies the grandest cathedral in all of Auradon: Notre Dame, where the royals and nobility hold their grand wedding ceremonies and the majority of Auradon City’s populace attend church. A gorgeous and tall gothic building with large bells which are rung by the bell keeper Quasimodo on the hour and on special holidays / events. There is also a cemetery here, St. Lazarus, full of marble mausoleums where the nobility bury their dead. It is considered a great honor to be laid to rest in Auradon City under the watchful eye of the royal family, and some nobles even prefer to be buried there than back in their homelands.
UPPER DISTRICT
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Upper District is ironically a quieter part of Auradon. This statement is ironic only because it is home to Auradon’s Grand Theater House, the largest and most impressive opera house in all the land. Here the soprano Madame De La Grande Bouche preforms regularly, and the greatest composers and royal orchestra call home. It is a highlight of the social season to attend the opera in Upper District and it is during that period in which the nobles are in town that the grandest shows and concerts are had. On the off season, the opera house is a bit quieter but they’re always ready to rev up a performance should any nobles appear in town on the off season. It isn’t cheap to get tickets so it mostly caters to the elite. It is rumored that within the opera house there is also a higher end gentlemen’s establishment, for those noblemen who don’t want to risk sullying their reputations by seeking out the brothel in Low Town, though there is little evidence to this. The singers and actresses of the theater are rather pretty and can easily win the favor of young amorous lords with or without a Madame managing. Aside from the opera house, The Univeristy of Auradon is also found in Upper District. A college (sadly) exclusively for male scholars, it is here where men come to study the law and science, and where the magistrates and lawmakers meet. The University is home to the Hall of Records, a museum on Auradon History, the biggest scholarly library, and a hospital where medical students practice on the ill. It has a gorgeous courtyard with incredible marble statues and is popular for strolls rather than stately visits.
ENCHANTED HILLS
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The northernmost district of Auradon is actually one of the oldest parts of the city, and heavily reconstructed. That’s because what is now Enchanted Hills used to be the Imperial City of St. Petersburg. Here there sits the abandoned Catherine Palace, the castle owned by Czar Nicholas and the Romanovs before their assassination in 1788. The palace and surrounding city went to disrepair and was the inspiration for King Adam to convert that entire southern area into the grand capitol Auradon City is today. Catherine Palace was originally suggested for the royal family, but they didn’t want to take up the home of the Czar. Not when rumors persisted that his daughter still lived somewhere. Instead they took the Czar’s country home and made it into Queen Belle’s Chateau, and spent much of 1810-1812 reconstructing Catherine Palace. It is now rebuilt and its maintenance kept up should the Grand Duchess prove to be alive. While it’s a beautiful sight, Catherine Palace isn’t the big draw of Enchanted Hills. It is the park which it is named after, The Enchanted Park, which gives it its reputation as the most beautiful district. This large park brings much needed greenery to the city, miles of labyrinthine gardens, winding paths through weeping willows, lanes with cherry blossom trees lining them, and an enchanted lake where the water is said to have magical properties which can heal from all manners of spellbinding enchantment. It boasts four grand fountains and over 75 marble statues all depicting various legends from Auradon history, as well as a large memorial in commemoration of the Cauldron War. It’s a garden made of fairy magic which preserves its beauty and flora through all seasons, always comfortably warm and sunny even if it’s snowing outside. The perfect place to take a stroll with a prospective spouse. Last of all, Enchanted Hills is home to the Fey Borough, or the neighborhood where the faeries live, much like the Garden District is for the nobles. Faeries from all over, even Pixie Hollow, come to settle here throughout the year to learn from elder faeries and to assist the royal family of Auradon. Their parlors are always open to those good hearted folk in need, and even just for an ear to listen to your troubles. Here they promise that that wish, that dream your heart makes, can truly come true. Just have a little faith and trust, and maybe even some pixie dust, and see it all become reality right before your very eyes!
And that my friends is Auradon City! As the roleplay continues and my vision of Auradon expands, I may continue to add to this to give more and more details on our main setting. Please refer to this page often to catch up on updates and have an understanding of the city, and please use as much of this as you can for reference! Auradon City has a lot to offer setting wise and culturally do have fun with this information and use it for your plotting and threading going forward. If you have questions about specific places mentioned or how to use them in threads, simply post in the #questions section of our discord or DM me directly. I’ll expand upon anything you guys want, this is mostly to give a general idea. You can use the images as reference as well but remember they’re more inspiration and not exactly the rule. Obviously the Royal Palace ISN’T Versailles, but it has a similar vibe. And note that each district has more hotspots than what has already been labeled, I’m just giving you guys a few places to use and offer a broad spectrum of settings within the city. You can be creative as well and talk about alleyways, homes or the kinds of stores and establishments that should exist within a regency or georgian era city that weren’t detailed here. And if you have suggestions for any hot spots — let me know! I will gladly take input and add to the ever growing Auradon of disenchanted!
As always, hit me up with any questions you have! I hope you’re all able to find this post helpful and to use it to further flesh out the universe. ☺️
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heavyarethecrowns · 3 years
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Kate Middleton: Prince William’s Decade-Long Mistake - Oct 2010
Who is Kate Middleton? After nearly 10 years of seeing Kate’s recorded behavior, this is my impression: Kate Middleton doesn’t care about any causes, charities or anything outside of living for pleasure. I doubt her ability to handle royal responsibilities – beyond dealing with privileges and paparazzi – because in the ten years the world has watched her, she hasn’t demonstrated she can take on anything but a royal c*ck and a jolly good time. While true, she isn’t married to William and isn’t in fact a royal (and may never be, for all we know), her perseverance implies she’s in it for the long haul and plans to become the Princess of Wales. As such, she should have taken these years to demonstrate to the world that, although she’s a common-bred, middle-class girl, she’s an exceptional lady who rises above the rest. But Kate has failed profoundly in that respect. The last thing the women of the public should be thinking when they see William’s marital choice is, “What on earth makes her so special? I could have done that/been in her place – and done it better! -Maybe I should have gone to St. Andrews!” But that’s what women, including myself, are lead to think of her. Coming from her background, as a common, everyday girl, it shows her complete lack of humility, and is borderline arrogant, for her to assume she can live like a spoiled brat who doesn’t need to prove herself. She enjoys a privileged life that she wasn’t born into – and for the life of many, we can’t understand why. Why was she chosen? Why not someone else? Why not a woman the vast majority can respect and admire? Let’s be honest here: William can have nearly anyone he wants – and he’s settling for this average circus monkey?
At first glance, Kate seemed like a well kept, nicely mannered woman – and well-suited for a royal position. In the first few years of her royal relationship, she shone as an attractive, educated, beautifully fashioned, friendly, and conservatively-behaved young lady. But that was then. Now, upon looking back at Kate’s near-decade as an unofficial princess-in-waiting, her behavior reveals her as a underwhelming choice for the monarchy. She’s demonstrated that she’s far from exceptional, and that aside from her pursuit of a crown, she’s a disappointing, arrogant underachiever of little substance.
Ambitious In All The Wrong Ways:
Those who know Kate often describe her as ambitious; and in the beginning, that’s the side of her the public got to see. Kate worked hard on her academics so she could attend the prestigious St. Andrews University, where William was also set to attend. While there, she met William and completed the same degree as him, in Art History.  Following their graduations, William began the demanding military career he still pursues today. However, surprisingly, the once ambitious-seeming Kate did nothing: She remained jobless for nearly two years, living off of her parents (and William, I’m sure). Kate finally got a part-time job as an accessories buyer at the fashion chain, Jigsaw, but quit after only 11 months. Notably, rumors suggest Kate only got the job to passify Her Majesty, The Queen, who took notice that her grandson’s significant-other was a lazy freeloader. After that, she worked for her parent’s internet business, Party Pieces (which to many read like an unemployment cover-up). Apparently, Kate made updates to their website and took photos for it. That sounds pathetic and hardly full-time. Not to mention, Kate’s monthly getaways to exotic locations with William attest that her parents gave her an overwhelming amount of time off whenever she wanted it. That’s hardly a real job. And if that’s not disappointing enough, Kate quit the job all together in October of 2009 and has officially been doing nothing but shacking up with William while he pursues his career ever since. I’m sorry Katie dear, but for any 28 year old – especially a potential Queen of England – that’s absolutely not good enough.
There are several obvious problems with the reality of Kate’s ambitions (or lack thereof). She was ambitious about her education, but clearly didn’t want or need it for a career – So, what was she even at St. Andrews for, and why was she ambitious about getting there? She graduated from a top notch university, only to settle for unemployment and a job her parents provided? Logically, it’s mismatching for someone to aggressively pursue a top-tier education only to fall flat as a lazy, career-underachiever immediately and permanently thereafter. The fact that Kate did just that leads me, and countless others to believe she was only academically driven so she could put herself in William’s way and try to form a relationship with him. Also telling are the numerous reports by those close to Kate’s mother that Mrs. Middleton pushed her daughter’s attendance to St. Andrews in hopes of her becoming royalty.
Kate: The Attention-Loving Wild Child
When Kate’s not working – and that’s most of the time – she goes shopping, attends leisurely sporting and social events, and parties ’till her heart’s content in Britain’s most luxurious night spots (Paris Hilton style – ick). The photos of her nightlife are less than flattering – actually, they’re flat out embarrassing – especially for the potential next Princess and Queen of Wales. She often looks extremely intoxicated, and her attire and car-exiting-techniques have granted the paparazzi dozens of “crotch shots”.
[picapp align=”none” wrap=”false” link=”term=kate+middleton&iid=756945″ src=”http://view3.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/756945/kate-middleton-birthday/kate-middleton-birthday.jpg?size=500&imageId=756945″ width=”234″ height=”151″ /] Kate characteristically grinning as she’s hounded by the paparazzi
Any other 28 year old woman would be focused on a career or starting a family – or both; But Kate just parties like she’s some rich 19 year old without any responsibilities. In fact, she’s only too happy to show that side of herself to the paparazzi – and the world. Her parents and William (taxpayer dollars) have financially supported her throughout her twenties – extravagant vacations included – and Kate’s habitual ear-to-ear smile indicates she’s loved every minute of it. As long as she’s attached to William, she doesn’t have a care in the world that other (common) women like her have – aside from her image, and she’s let that fall to the wayside. From the bright red coat she wore to William’s military graduation to the never-failing smile she wears for the paparazzi, Kate’s self-presentation says she loves being a celebrity and all eyes being on her. Unfortunately, Britain needs a princess who naturally exudes a respectable image when she provokes the world to look.
William’s Mistake – William’s Responsibility
I understand William’s need to pick a lady who’ll roll with the punches, deal well with the crazy, public lifestyle (privacy invasion, etc.), and conform to suit the monarchy’s needs. Nevertheless, it’s his mistake in assuming those are the only criteria a future princess must meet. If there was a checklist for the “Qualities of the Most Ideal Future Princess of Wales”, Kate would scantily fulfill 20% of them:
Intelligence and Wit
Humility
Career ambition/self sufficiency
Physical beauty – (C’mon, princesses are supposed to be pretty! -Especially when the prince is popular enough to take his pick. Kate’s…just…okay…)
Noble/Aristocratic blood (if not this, then a woman who stands far above the crowd of other commoners)
Grace and Conservative femininity (that goes out the window when you’ve been banging the prince for a decade without a commitment – Oh, and the rumored accidental pregnancies (abortion fanatic if they’re true! *cough* TMI *cough*))
Charity and service for those in need (I volunteered like crazy in college, and I’m not anywhere near royal… Why didn’t Kate?! – And why hasn’t she since??)
Respectable and responsible image (yeah, umm, no)
Takes on royal responsibilities to earn royal privileges (Kate’s only got the acceptance of privileges part down…)
Aaaand the list goes on…
Of course, there’s the possibility that Kate’s the girl who’s a match for William’s heart. But I doubt it. Kate’s the girl with everything to lose if the relationship fails, and everything to gain if it succeeds – her greatest skill is that she’s willing/desperate enough to jump through all and any hoops, including waiting 10+ years for a proposal – and William knows it.
It may have been 10 years, but it’s not too late for William to turn around and make a better decision. Kate hasn’t been cheated – contrary to some’s beliefs. She’s lived a decade of fantasy and wonder beyond her wildest dreams, and has continually been treated to luxuries she doesn’t deserve. William owes it to himself, and his country to make a responsible choice about the future Princess of Wales. Yes, he needs to choose a woman he loves, but his privileges require sacrifices on his part, and that means choosing a bride that will be an honorable partner for the people’s sake too. If William was going to wait ’till his late 20s/early 30s to wed, he could have waited to meet a woman who’s getting a PhD, or who runs a charitable non-profit organization, for example. But no : Instead, he’s burdening his country with wishy-washy, Waity Katie.
It’s not about choosing a girl who loves being photographed or relishes living her fantasy of being a fashion icon – or even a real, live princess. It’s about choosing a self-sufficient woman who has something amazing to offer the country and the world: A role model, a charitable, caring person who views joining the monarchy as a responsibility, and an opportunity to serve the people – not just an entitlement to luxurious privileges. Right now, the latter is Kate Middleton; And I don’t foresee her entire irresponsible, pleasure-loving personality changing just because wedding vows are exchanged. What we’ve seen is what we’re going to get as Lady Di’s shoe-filler – if William decides to go through with it. One can only hope that won’t be the case.
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princessanneftw · 4 years
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Inside Princess Anne's lifelong love affair with horses
As the Princess Royal approaches her 70th birthday, those who know her recount the most enduring relationship of her life
By Eleanore Kelly for the Telegraph
The Princess Royal has spent a lifetime with horses. Like her siblings, she started riding at the age of three. But what makes her remarkable is the success she achieved as a competitor. Aged 21 she was crowned European Eventing Champion at Burghley. She was riding Doublet, a horse bred by the Queen, for polo, and gifted to the Princess.
At the 1975 European Eventing Championships, she finished second on Goodwill, another horse owned by the Queen and her mount at the Montreal Olympics in 1976, where she became the first member of the British royal family to compete at an Olympic Games. She rode winners in horse racing too, notably in the Grand Military Steeplechase at Sandown over jumps, and the Diamond Stakes on the flat at Ascot. No wonder she won BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award in 1971 - the first ever event rider to carry off the trophy.
There were always ponies around during her childhood. Both her parents rode regularly, as did her older brother, Prince Charles, who developed a keen interest in polo and was considered a gifted player.
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In those days polo was a men-only game, so not something his sister would have pursued, but she was a member of the Pony Club where she would have tried most equestrian disciplines with other young enthusiasts. Perhaps the attraction to eventing was the camaraderie that is always synonymous with a risk sport; horses are no respecter of titles.
When she became more serious about eventing, her parents arranged for training with Alison Oliver, wife of international show jumper Alan Oliver, who was based near Windsor. She is widely credited for propelling the Princess on the road to international equestrian stardom.
Lucinda Green, one of Princess Anne’s eventing peers, describes her as the pin-up of their era. Lucinda was a fellow team member at the Montreal Olympics and remembers the Princess having a crashing fall halfway around the cross-country course and suffering concussion. She remounted and finished the course but to this day cannot remember the rest of the jumps.
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“She was extremely brave and good enough to get on the British team on two very different horses. Goodwill, her horse in Montreal, was not easy. He was big and had no brakes - I definitely wouldn’t have ridden him,” says Green.
With animals so often comes heartbreak, which even Princesses cannot escape. Her partnership with Doublet, a diminutive chestnut with the heart of a lion, ended in tragedy. The pair were destined for the Munich Olympics when the horse who had defined her career shattered a hind leg in an accident at Windsor and had to be put down.
At a time where security at sports events was minimal, The Princess was hounded by the media. “I always admired the way she coped with the press. That added the most unbelievable pressure on top of trying to do her sporting best. Tough for her but she put our sport on the map and kept it in the spotlight,” observes Green.
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In 1985, she was persuaded to ride in a charity horse race at Epsom (home of the Derby). By this stage she’d hung up her eventing boots and had two young children. Yet she was always game for the challenge, if it involved horses.
Horse racing requires a very different technique from eventing, so she approached trainer David Nicholson for help. Known as “The Duke” because of his imposing personality, he suggested she come to his Cotswold yard, little expecting she would turn up almost every day for several years to ride out.
His wife Dinah became familiar with the Princess, as she would join them in the kitchen for breakfast after exercising the horses. “She was so dedicated and determined, driving 40 minutes every morning and arriving at 7.15am on the dot, so she could tack up her horse before riding out on the gallops. Then she would have breakfast with us and sometimes there would be a jockey - Richard Dunwoody or Peter Scudamore. The conversation would mostly be about horses. After breakfast, she would set off for a busy day of royal duties.”
Even if she had a royal engagement in London that went on late into the night, she would still get up after a few hours sleep to drive to the yard in Stow-on-the Wold. Acquaintances say her security detail looked permanently exhausted from keeping up with her.
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After the charity race, in which she finished a respectable fourth, she asked Nicholson if she could continue riding out at his yard. It seemed the attraction was as much about the camaraderie of yard life as it was the actual race riding. “She became very fond of the people in racing and was always very natural with the stable lads, who liked her.”
There was a horse she was very fond of too, called Cnoc Na Cuille. He was a big winner for her in her career as a jump jockey (including the Grand Military) but soon after finishing third at Warwick, he dropped dead, probably from a heart attack.
“The Princess was not one for showing emotion but she was clearly very upset about it,” says Dinah. Soon after this she gave up race riding, although she has bred a few race horses herself at her home, Gatcombe Park in Gloucestershire.
For 37 years, thanks to the Princess, Gatcombe has hosted eventing competitions, including the prestigious Festival of Eventing. The cross-country course is designed by her former husband Captain Mark Phillips, an Olympic medallist and four-time Badminton winner (once the golden boy of British eventing), and the Director is their son Peter Phillips.
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Princess Anne’s daughter, Zara Tindall, a former European and World Champion event rider and silver medalist in the London 2012 Olympics, regularly competes there and the Princess hands out the prizes.
Tindall has even more eventing accolades than her mother and, like her, she was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year (in 2006). Her mother has always been hugely supportive of her children’s interest in horses. Every Christmas, the Princess would drive the children’s ponies up to Balmoral* (think they mean Sandringham?) herself in a horsebox so they could all ride.
There is also a strong equine theme to the Princess Royal’s charity work. She’s President of World Horse Welfare and the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) as well as Patron of the Pony Club and the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF). She was President of the International Federation of Equestrian Sports (FEI) from 1986 to 1994, a role she took over from her father, Prince Philip.
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Roly Owers, CEO of World Horse Welfare, describes the Princess as having a deep love of horses, devoting a huge amount of time to all aspects of horse welfare. Former champion jockey John Francombe describes her as the best after-dinner speaker he has ever heard, with a great sense of humour, persuading well-oiled guests to open their wallets for charity and even persuading them to adopt horses themselves.
Rehoming unwanted horses is a large part of the World Horse Welfare’s work and the Princess is a rehomer herself. “On one of her visits to our rescue centres, she met a Welsh Cob called Annie and asked if she could have her. I believe she still rides her today.”
“She has always had a clear opinion but understands horses better than anyone,” says Owers. That once got her into trouble, at the 2013 World Horse Welfare conference when one of the topics was the European Horse Meat scandal. “She made a comment about the value of horses that was translated as ‘Princess Anne eats horse meat’ by certain journalists.”
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What the Princess had actually said was: "Should we be considering a real market for horsemeat and would that reduce the number of welfare cases, if there was a real value in the horsemeat sector? I chuck that out for what it's worth because I think it needs a debate."
As Owers remembers, “it was unfortunately the first time we filmed the conference and broadcast it live, so you can imagine it created 48 hours of hysteria.” Though whether the Princess actually sits down to pony steak for Sunday lunch is not known.
Caroline Ward of the RDA remarks on her extraordinary empathy. “She understands the challenges our participants face and what they get out of the experience of riding horses. She will talk to them about their ponies and what it means to them to spend time with horses.
“These riders, many of whom find communication and mobility so difficult, will always open up to her. They are bound by this common interest and love of horses. She will also chat to the volunteers, to make them feel all the more special.”
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Ward recalls the time Princess Anne helped a rider load her difficult horse into the horse box. “She came to our RDA National Championships at Hartpury College. She saw this struggle and despite not being dressed to get stuck in, she clearly couldn’t walk by without offering assistance. Well, this horse took one look at her and realised this was someone who meant business, and walked straight into the horsebox.”
Ex-jockey and racing journalist Brough Scott has known the Princess for many years through sport and her support of the IJF. “At charity events, rather than entertaining the fat cats, she is happiest talking to the ex-jockeys, many of whom are in a wheelchair. One really likes her for that, even though she is not trying to be liked.”
To be a successful rider, you have to build a relationship of trust and mutual understanding with your horse. That means controlling your fear and emotions. Eventing, a combination of the three disciplines of dressage, cross-country and show jumping, is perhaps the truest test of all-round horsemanship, demanding both accuracy and courage. It is only for the bravest of the brave, says Scott.
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“Princess Anne wasn’t simply a Royal who rode, she was an athlete who achieved great things in her eventing career and rode courses that would have terrified most people. That must have given her self-confidence and fulfillment.”
In her public duties too, the Princess Royal has given her all, incidentally personifying the characteristics necessary for a fine horsewoman: discipline, dedication and courage. Are they a matter of her breeding and upbringing, or do we have her love of horses to thank for that?
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keepitreal1 · 3 years
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DIANAS TWO BOYS
There was two boys whose future was written, before their birth. For they were born in to the most known family on earth
That is right the Royal family of the UK. With Queen Elizabeth who still reigns to this day
Prince William was born first, with Harry being the spare. They were born to Diana & Prince Charles, aka the Queen's heir
Diana gave the boys a life where they did many normal things. For she wanted them to see a life, other than that, being a Royal brings
She took them to homeless shelters & humanised people with aids. She showed them the work she did, with victims of landmines & grenades
Diana & Charles did divorce, which threw Diana's life, completely off course. Sadly she died in a car crash, the world was shocked, she was gone in a flash
The world lost a beautiful soul, in the hearts of many she left a hole. The whole nation felt numb, those poor boys had lost their mum
So from that day forward we took them as our own, watching them day by day until they were fully grown
The boys vowed to always be there for each other, for that would be the wishes of their mother. William & Harry had such an amazing bond, as brothers, mates & beyond
Harry became the funny, cheeky chap, with many a faux par & many a mishap. William was dutiful, dependant & strong, he married Kate, & all 3 got along
The 3 of them worked together for charity & greater good, doing what the public expect the Royal family should.
Kate & Harry laughed, joked & got along great. Harry became a cherished, fun little brother to Kate
Kate & Will gave the monarchy a new lease of life, she became much more than just Williams wife. Kate was kind, did her duty & was oh so loyal, she learnt from the bottom up what it meant to be a royal
Kate & William had their first kid, but they still included Harry in everything they did. Then along came 2 more but Harry was still included like before
All was going along just fine, Harry was glad he wasn't second in line. Harry didn't want to one day be king, he didn't want all the pressures in which it did bring
Harry wanted what Kate & Will had, he wanted his own wife he thought that, that would complete his life
Harry wanted a wife & child, it's what he'd wished for all along, they say be careful what you wish for, & boy how he got it wrong
He'd had a few serious girlfriends but none wanted to marry, then along came an actress whose eyes were set on Harry. The actress Meghan had done her research, she learnt all she could, about Diana, the Royal family & everything for which Harry stood
She would be the girl of his dreams, but nothing is ever as it first seems. She tried to turn herself in to Diana number two, she wore the same perfume & similar outfits to name just a few
She knew she had to get her claws in quick cos she didn't want Harry to give her the flick
She wanted a proposal and used everything at her disposal. From paying PR to change her past, to telling lies to get the ring fast
She told Harry she was being chased by the press, it was lies she just wanted him to stress.
So he put a statement out for all to see, stating she was his girlfriend so they best leave her be
She finally scammed a proposal from him, he'd been tricked, boy he is dim
He believed everything she told him everything she said, she love bombed him and his ego was fed
The nation was overjoyed, wow we thought she was great. She would be part of the team, along with Harry, William & Kate
The nation were so excited, as we gathered to watch the day. We were filled with well wishes & joy on that 19th of may
The day came, she was now Harrys wife that was when she did start the strife. There were problems with Meghan, Harry, Kate & Will, at least that's what we heard through the rumour mill
Every royal rule Meghan broken, she plagiarized every word that she'd spoken
And Harry wow he was acting strange, it was like he'd had a complete 180 change
Gone was the Harry that was always happy making everyone laugh. Also gone were many members of their staff
We heard that Meg was a nightmare to work for. So much so, her staff quit, they ran for the door
Meg tried to compete with the Royal family, she wanted to be top. Anytime any Royal did an event, up Meghan would pop
Then Harry started to whine & preach, whilst she stuck to him like a leech. She spread so much venom about Kate & Will. The looks Meg gave Kate, she'd be dead, if looks could kill
Harry started to scowl, he had a permanent frown, he was no longer happy as spare he wanted the crown
Meg started twisting Harry's mind, pressing every button she could find. She told Harry his family treated her poor, she told him that she deserves better, she deserves more
Anything Meg got, she wanted more, the public was not liking what they saw. They both were acting to big for their boots, acting & doing whatever suits
Meg started saying the Queen & country are all being racist, on & on at Harry she did persist
She made Harry fall out with everyone & before the Queen knew it they were both gone
They eventually got a mansion in LA and anything they wanted Prince Charles would pay. The whole UK was not at all happy, we do not like being treated so crappy
Now in America the more venom they release, using charities & screwing whatever cash they can fleece
We watch on, shocked at Harry's dodgy dealings and how he continues hurting his families feelings
Him & Meg stir up hate for his loyal brother, even going as low as cashing in their dead mother
Gone is that boy we once did know, he married a bitch & his true self did show
Harry & Meg won't give the titles back, like titles make up, for the humanity they lack
Will & Harrys brotherly bond is gone, it's dead, all because he let Meg screw with his head
William is still dutiful, dependant, strong & he is most loyal, he as all the qualities we expect of being a royal
Diana would turn in her grave at how Harry does behave
She would be so proud of William who will make a great king, he as the public's love & respect which is worth more than any fame & money could bring
So, of those two boys who lost their mum, one is disgraceful just chasing  fame, the other a great man he as became.
By keepitreal1
Also on twitter @it_real1
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I Can’t Eat Love- Side Part 1 - Nate
This is the first of 4 or 5 side parts (I might do an Edith part, but if i do it will be fairly short). We’re starting off with Nate, with plans for Rig’s to be the next one. 
Master post linked here. (I’ll update it again after posting).
Again, this will be from Nate’s POV. 
Enjoy!
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In a previous life...
No one ever truly looked at me, despite being a prince, despite trying my best. Their gazes always slipped past me, to focus on someone else. I felt sometimes that i was shouting, screaming for someone to see me, see who i was... but it always came to nothing in the end.
I noticed it early on.
______________________________
“Nate!” My older brother George called out as he crashed into my room without notice. “People are in trouble! We have to go help them!” 
I sighed loudly. George always said the exact same thing. Last time was because his favorite shop was out of sweets. “What is it this time?”
“I saw some people didn’t have homes on the streets, I’m going to help them.”
“You want to start a charity?”  I stood, up, already thinking through the steps that would need to be accomplished.
George stopped in his tracks, his enthusiasm waning. “Eh, a charity? Can’t we just… get them off the streets?”
A headache started forming behind my eyes. I rubbed my temples, closing my eyes. “I’ll take care of the paperwork. We’ll get a charity started and help the people you are worried about.”
“Perfect!” Excited once more, George clapped me on the back before charging back out, the open swinging door the only trace of his outburst. I sighed again.
I would be busy for a while.
______________________________
“George! We are so proud of the charitable work you’ve been doing lately!” Father spoke up at dinner, his eyes warm as he studied my brother.
Wait, what? I looked up from my meal, shocked. Neither of my parents paid any attention to me, however, both focused on my older brother.
“Thanks!” George happily accepted the compliment, never glancing in my direction. An angry flame built up in my chest.
Why wasn’t he telling them that I did most of the work? Why doesn’t anyone care that I was the one who made this project a success?
“But…” I tried to speak up, feeling embarrassed but determined to be seen.
“You need to be more like your brother, Nate.” My Mother smiled calmly at me, not noticing the pain she was causing. “You could learn a lot from him.”
 My determination shriveled to nothing in my chest, and i stared back down at my plate, blinking back tears.
I didn’t finish dinner that night.
“Why didn’t you tell them?” I asked him later, upset. His only response was to stare innocently back at me.
“We both worked hard. I’m sure they realize that.”
But they didn’t.
They never did.
______________________________
“Let go of her!” George yelled out, charging into the middle of a group of men harassing a young woman. They outnumbered him twelve to one, and he had below average fighting ability, he was quickly restrained, a punch landing on his stomach by a smirking gang member.
Seeing all this as I arrived, I ordered the royal guards I had brought with me to split the group in half, quickly joining the side that held my brother captive. 
“DO YOUR WORST YOU COWARDS!” George screamed fearlessly at them even as he was helpless to break free. 
I saw the knife pointing in his direction, and jumped forward to protect him without thinking, wincing as the blade cut through my skin.
At least I had saved him, despite his rashness. I felt my heart lift, ignoring the painful bleeding wound on my arm. They would have to see me now.
______________________________
“WHY DIDN’T YOU GO WITH YOUR BROTHER?” My father was angry, glancing between a bruised and battered George and me. “He wouldn’t have been hurt nearly as badly if you had been there from the start!”
I gritted my teeth, still holding pressure to the bandage across my slashed arm. “I don’t know what George told you, but we needed reinforcements…”
 “He said you didn’t care when he told you about the young woman in trouble.” My father’s eyes were cold, freezing my heart.
“I just said we needed more people to do it safely… I was always planning to help but...”
He raised a hand, dismissing my words. “Why can’t you be more like your brother?” 
Looking at George’s pitiful smile, and my father’s uncomfortable stare, I slowly closed my mouth, refusing to speak further.
______________________________
Incident after incident, it was always me bailing him out of trouble, yet somehow he took all the credit for the achievements, and I was responsible for all the failures. A darkness grew in my heart, a deep and angry bitterness that I couldn’t suppress.
Why was I helping him?
The thought came more and more frequently. 
And then came the day.The terrible day i regretted more than any other.
“People are in trouble! There are bandits! We have to go help them!”
I smiled coldly at my brother’s frantic words, but never looked up.
“Then go help them.”
“…” George stared at me in shock. I understood. In the past I had always leapt to my feet, eager to help any way I could. 
“You should probably get more information, such as locations and numbers. Make sure to bring reinforcements, too.” I spoke carelessly as I continued to read the book in front of me, ignoring him.
“Aren’t you going to take care of things?”
“No.” I smiled, looking at his disappointed expression without flinching.
“Don’t you care about our people?”
“I’m just taking our parents advice to heart.” I laughed, but it was a bitter, unpleasant sound. “I’m going to be more like you. I’m going to sit here, and let someone else do all the work.”
I felt a brief moment of elation as he left empty handed. This time, I wouldn’t be used. This time, our parents would see that it was always my hard work that George had depended on. They would look at me, truly look at me, for the first time. 
I smiled, turning my attention back to my book, not sparing another thought as George slammed the door behind him.
But that was the last time I saw my brother alive.
At first, it seemed like a bad joke. How could he die the one time I didn’t help him? Why did he just rush in like always without reinforcements, had he thought I would come despite what I said?
All my anger, my frustration, my jealousy… it was left without a target.
It was just me left.
But still… no one truly looked at me.
The nobles, the castle servants… my parents. They continued to mourn, and now instead of fighting to be compared to an imperfect older brother, I was constantly haunted by the perfection of their memories.
I was trapped.
______________________________
I traveled a lot, hoping to escape their sad gazes. Escape my own guilt. In Reterand, I met some interesting people. Jim was an official in the Royal Treasury, who spent some time explaining economic theory to me. The Queen in particular was kind, even if she spent most of her time telling me how wonderful her “daughter” was and how much we would get along.
I found this confusing. As far as I knew, The Royal family only had one child, a son.
I didn’t stay long in that kingdom. The crown prince Ronan was particularly annoying. He spent the majority of his time boasting about his many talents, and the small remainder complaining about his fiancé, who he called “a boring girl.”
I felt sorry for her, whoever she was. It wouldn’t be easy to marry a man like that. 
I returned to Tilendria, and never thought much of it again. A few years later, however, a report crossed my desk.
“Ronan broke his engagement?” I raised an eyebrow as I read the report, a slight pain in my chest as it described the way the poor girl had been callously tossed aside at a public party.
“And is now engaged to her close friend, the daughter of a count.” A servant confirmed.
“Poor girl.” The words left my mouth in a whisper. I searched my memory, trying to think if I had ever met her, but came up blank. I hoped she was able to find a better life. Ronan would not have made a good husband. I set the report down, shaking my head as I caught sight of the name at the top of the page. “Poor Lenora.”
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It wasn’t until almost two years later that I visited Reterand again. Any time spent in the presence of Prince Ronan and his wife Edith was insufferable. Ronan was no better than the first time I met him, arrogant and loud. Edith was even worse, with no sense of propriety. She would attempt to order me around as a servant, claiming that Tilendria was a “small, insignificant country” and I should be glad for the opportunity to serve her.
What a fool. I ignored her, curious instead as to why I could no longer meet the Queen. She had been kind and helpful last time I had visited, if a little obsessed with her daughter. But when I asked around, everyone had similar uncomfortable expressions.
“She’s in mourning, Your Highness.” One of the more competent butlers, a man named Hallers, informed me finally. I was curious, and couldn’t help asking.
“Who is she mourning?”
“…” Despite the man’s professional mask, I caught sight of a brief flash of grief behind his eyes. Hallers hid it well, but he seemed to be deeply affected by the loss of whoever had died.
Seeing his reluctance to speak, I simply patted him on the shoulder, allowing him to leave. Such a cold, professional man, what kind of person could have gotten close to him to leave him so heartbroken? 
Still thinking of this, I headed out of the castle, wanting to escape spending time away from the prince and his group. I decided to go igcognito, using a scarf and cloak to hide my features and forgoing my guards. It was a little foolish, but I felt that as long as I wasn’t recognized, I’d be fine. 
I was definitely mistaken.
______________________________
 “Give us your money!” A pair of burly men cornered me in an alley. He held out a knife towards my face, giving me a gap toothed grin.
“I can honestly say I don’t have much on me.” Other than a couple of crowns, which I readily held out, I hadn’t brought anything with me. My free hand gripped the pommel of my sword under my cape. I wasn’t a brilliant fighter, but I should be able to hold my own against these two. 
But still I hesitated. If I was found to be involved in a bloody incident, this could have some diplomatic ramifications. While I was thinking this over, the man stepped closer, his eyes vicious. “Then I’ll just have to cut you open and see what else is worth selling.”
My hand tightened on my sword as he drew near, but before I could draw it…
THUD.
 A throwing knife grazed the man’s face, hitting the wall behind him. The sound of happy laughter filled the air. 
“What the…?” Surprised, all three of us looked up at the roof of the nearby building, the source of the attack. To my utter shock, a beautiful young woman sat on the edge, spinning a blade on her palm. She was dressed in black, loosely fitting clothes, her light hair tied up behind her head. The woman was smiling, but it was not a kind smile. And her eyes…
Intelligent, sad… they were deeper than any other I had ever seen. I was lost in them.
“Hate to spoil your fun, but you know that Rig doesn’t like you two doing business in his terf.” She laughed again, a pleasant sound. I felt my cheeks flush with warmth. I had seen beautiful women before, there were plenty in the royal court, but none with the simple confidence and steadiness she displayed with the smallest of actions. It was breathtaking to watch.
“WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE…?” One of the robbers started to shout, only to be stopped by his friend, who was still clutching his bleeding face.
“Shut up, fool! That’s Rig’s daughter.”
“The brat he picked off the streets?” The other man’s eyes widened.
“He threatened to absolutely destroy anyone who hurts her.”
THUD.
Another knife flew past, a long slash appearing on the previously uninjured robber’s chest. He screamed in pain, holding the wound. I stared up at the woman, but all she revealed was a cold grin.
“That’s assuming you are talented enough to hurt me.”
“Don’t be so cocky!” One robber raised his fist. “I’ve heard that’s there’s a noble with a grudge out on Rig. If he get’s taken out, don’t think you’ll last long!”
She picked up a third knife, shrugging. “I’ve given you so many chances, and you’re still not leaving? I guess you’re ready to die then.”
“…” Without another word, the two men turned and ran away. She watched them leave, her face expressionless, her eyes filled with sadness.
“Hey mister, you should be more careful in the streets.” At her words I clutched the scarf that hid my face closer, and made sure my hood was still up. “You stick out while you’re hiding you’re face like that.”
I gave a formal bow. “Thank you for saving me. I wasn’t paying proper attention.”
“Of course.” Grinning, she jumped to the ground in front of me, and gave a formal curtsey. It was flawless, and I stared at her in shock. “Nobility running around without guards though… you could really get into trouble.”
“I could say the same to you.” I returned her words, unsure of what secrets this girl was hiding. She had been formally trained in etiquette, though, it was easily visible in every movement she made, every gesture.
“I’m not nobility… not anymore.” She had a bitter smile, but even more so she seemed… lonely. I found myself wanting to reach out, to comfort her, but my hand froze mid-gesture, unsure if she would be insulted.
 “What’s your name anyways?” She studied me curiously, her eyes looking straight at me. “If you don’t mind me asking?”
She was my savior, how could I refuse? I started to pull down the scarf covering my face.
“I’m…”
“LENORA!” A voice cried out, and a distraught young man looked around the corner into the alley, his face pale. “IT’S RIG… he’s…” He trailed, off, shaking his head.
I heard her breath rush in. “Let’s go.”
She ran after him, pausing in the alleyway entrance to look back at me once. “Be careful in the future. I may not be there to save you next time.”
I grinned. “How about next time, I save you?”
“Deal.” She laughed, although anxiety now had crept into her voice. She was obviously worried about her this man Rig. I hoped he was okay. Without another word, she turned around and left, and I was alone once again.
I stared at the spot where she had been for a long time, my heartbeat in my ears, before turning back and returning to the palace.  
______________________________
On my arrival I received a message, calling me back to Tilendria. I hesitated, my mind turning to the young woman I had met today, unable to completely forget her. Was she okay? Did she need help?
She was the first person to reach out and help me, not expecting me to do anything in return. So many people were willing to use me, wanting me to help them… even my own brother… but this woman… Lenora, they had called her….
I wanted to see her again.
I returned home, heeding the urgency in my summons, but I didn’t forget. I sent some of my servants back to Reterand and asked them to search for the young woman, and to offer help immediately if she was found. They had discovered that Rig, who had apparently run an information and spying ring, had been murdered, and the remainder of his gang had been imprisoned or killed. 
My heart in my throat, I had them examine the bodies, and look at those captured, but none of them matched the description of Lenora.
Had she escaped?
Weeks, months went by without a word. I visited Reterand again, ignoring everyone else, just wandering around the Capital city, hoping to catch a glimpse of her, but my efforts were fruitless.
Until a terrible day came, and they found her.
______________________________
My men’s faces were solemn as they reported to me, the sense of failure hanging heavy around them. i fell to my knees, my breath freezing in my lungs. It was too late.
She was dead.
I had them take me to her, a stabbing pain in my chest. I took in her overly thin form, her gaunt face which was still, so different from the lively woman who I had met on the streets that day. 
I reached out, touching her cold, stiff hand, blinking back tears. 
“What happened?” My voice was cold, I saw some of the servants shiver before one stepped forward to answer.
“We examined her… it appears to be starvation that took her life. Only…” He hesitated again, but at my glare swallowed and continued on. “Someone must have had a grudge against her. Her body was taken away to the palace, for a short while, and then tossed out into the wilderness beyond the city for the animals to dispose of. In fact, the only reason we were able to find her was due to those strange movements.”
I felt my heart break, my hand tightening on hers. Starvation. What a terrible death.
“I promised to save you.” My words were whispered, but each one hurt like a blow. 
“Your Highness…”
“We’ll bury her in Tilendria. In the Royal plot.”
Silence filled the room for a few tense moments.
“A-are you sure? That’s only for…” He trailed off, unsure, but I smiled, knowing what he was trying to say.
It was a place made for the burial of royalty. Typically the only ones who could be honored there would be my parents, myself… and my wife.
“She saved my life.” My words were simple, but the servant flinched away from me, bowing.
“It shall be done, Your Highness.”  He left to make arrangements, and I stared at the young woman once more.
We had only met once, but she had left such a deep impression on me. What would it have been like if we had lived side by side?
I closed my eyes, grieving. “If there is another life, Lenora. Let me help you in that one. If I’m fortunate enough to meet you again… let me fall in love with you. Let’s get married, and live a happy life. I won’t lose you next time, alright?”
I opened my eyes but the scene before me hadn’t changed, I stood up, staring at her face for the last time.
“Goodbye.”
______________________________
 In another life…
“Nate!” A small hand waved in front of my face and I caught it in my own, laughing. Looking up, Lenora was smiling at me, all traces of the troubles she had recently been through long since faded away. 
“Yes?” I continued holding her hand, watching with interest as  her normally confident expression faltered, her cheeks flushing a bright red.  She shook her head slowly, as if trying to clear it.
“Do you believe me?” Her voice was quieter than I was used to, a tone of uncertainty in it that tore at my heart. I reached out, pulling her in with a tight hug. 
“Of course.” It was a fantastical tale. She had lived and died, being reborn five years earlier and given a second chance to change her fate. If it were anyone else I would laugh, call them crazy.
But this was Lenora.
The strange, beautiful girl who saw things too clearly. Who sacrificed herself at a moment’s notice to prevent anyone from starving within her duchy. Who had stared at her fiancé and best friend betraying her with tired eyes, as if it were only to be expected. If anything, her actions, her pain, made a horrifying amount of sense.
“Do you regret how this life turned out?” I kept hugging her, my heart beating rapidly in my chest.
I loved her. 
Even at our ridiculous first introduction when she grabbed my arm, frightening me by demanding my clothes, she had unknowingly become an irreplaceable presence in my heart. Each moment I spent with her from then on, from arguing with her day after day in lessons with Jim, to helping her gather resources to build a fortune, I fell further and further, unable to escape how I felt and without desire to. Whether we were fighting, or agreeing, or working together she had always truly seen me.
I still thought this might be a dream. That her telling me she loved me too, agreeing to marry me might be a fantasy my desperate mind cooked up. But here she was, by my side, smiling.
I hoped she was happy.
“No. I like this ending much better.” She grinned, leaning up and kissing my cheek. I felt myself turn red, looking up at the ceiling with a sigh.
“Still, it seems really unfair.” I frowned at her. “You knew everyone else in your previous life. Even Rig and Marile were close to you. But you didn’t know me?”
Lenora shrugged, a smile tugging at her lips as I pouted. “I’m pretty sure I would have remembered you.”
“Well, if I had known you in the previous life, I would like to think I would have tried to help you.” The thought made me curious. A life that only Lenora could remember. A life where we never met.
What kind of person would I be, if I hadn’t met her when I did? She had changed my life so much already…
“Well, I guess you’ll have to work even harder in this life, since you didn’t get a chance to know me last time.” She teased me, but her eyes widened with shock as I let go of her, kneeling on the floor in front of her with a solemn expression.
“I promise to try my hardest as your future husband to make you happy in this lifetime, so you won’t regret it.” I reached out, taking her hand and kissing the back of it, enjoying the sight of her being flustered. I was usually the one who got embarrassed first.
“THIS IS SO CUTE!” 
A shout caught both of our attention. To my shock there was a whole group of people hanging behind the cracked door of the room. Hallers and Rig, with serious expressions, had their hands clapped over Lady Erica’s mouth, who had obviously been the one shouting. Marile and the Queen stood nearby, pretending that they hadn’t been spying.
As they let go of her, Lady Erica rushed forward, hugging us both, before grabbing the Queen and Marile to immediately discuss wedding plans. I watched them with a smile, sitting back down next to Lenora, ignoring Rig and Hallers’ cold stares at the closeness between us. I broke out in a cold sweat at the intensity of their gazes, but held on to Lenora’s hand, refusing to move.
She chuckled at their expressions, waving them to sit down. “Stop trying to scare him.”
“He’s a very lucky man, Miss.” Hallers spoke quietly. I fought the urge to hide behind my fiancé at his tone. “We’ll have to have a… talk… with His Royal Highness before the wedding of course.”
Rig cracked his knuckles, grinning. “Yes. A talk. Just so he understands how our girl needs to be treated.”
“I look forward to it.” I lied, hiding my terror.
Lenora burst out laughing, and unknowingly the whole room smiled at her. I squeezed her hand.
“Thank you.”
For looking at me when no one else did. For loving me. For using a second chance at life to spend it with me.
She smiled in response. “Let’s make a new future.”
I nodded, agreeing. “Okay.”
And we would build a new future. Side by side. 
Together.
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Charity Ball
A/N: I haven’t done a queen fic in what feels like ages! But that’s pretty much because I haven’t had the time and I’m trying to get through all my requests. But here one is! I really love this idea and I wasn’t too keen on doing anything more with it at the beginning, but I’m glad that changed. I hope you guys enjoy and if you have any ideas for how I could continue this let me know.
*~~*~~*
Masterlist
Brian May x Reader
Read Her Royal Highness first: 1 / 2
Summary: With their relationship and secrets out in the open, Y/n and Brian must go back to their daily lives. A part of that now is royal events that Y/n is eager to bring Brian to, but the guitarist isn’t as eager. He’s more nervous than anything even if Y/n assures him there is nothing to be worried about.
Word Count: 1.7k
Warnings: Language
(Disclaimer: Andorra is a real country in Europe, landlocked between France and Spain. It may be real, but it does not have an existing monarchy. So, please remember that this is a work of fiction. And I would appreciate it if you guys didn’t go around telling people that Andorra has a monarchy, it wouldn’t make you sound very smart.)
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Brian fiddled with his tie, trying to make it straight. No matter how much he played with it, though, it still hung a little crooked on his chest. He couldn’t have that. On stage, his appearance didn’t really matter. A crooked tie, a ripped pair of jeans, an unbuttoned shirt didn’t matter when he had his guitar in hand. But he wouldn’t be on stage, he would be in a ballroom surrounded by people he only ever dreamed of meeting. The slightest hair out of place, broken nail, and crooked tie matter among the people he would be socializing with. 
He hadn’t thought that he would ever get to attend an event hosted by a royal family, let alone meet members of all the royals Europe had to offer. But his thought process changed once he found out he was dating one of those royals. Being in the company of high ranking individuals was something he had become accustomed too when around Y/n’s family. He’d just never believed that he would get invited to one of their balls.
The man huffed, looking at his appearance in the mirror. It was hard to notice the tie wasn’t straight, but he wouldn’t be satisfied until it hung the way he wanted it to. He was just about to undo the material when a pair of arms wrapped around him.
“Are you alright, love?” Y/n asked, her head pressed against his back.
“I would be a whole lot better if this bloody tie would fucking cooperate,” he mumbled, fiddling with it once again.
Y/n sighed as she unwrapped her arms and came to stand in front of him, careful not to step on the skirt of her dress. “Let me help you.”
“Why can’t I just wear a bowtie?” 
A smile crept onto her lips. “Because it would probably be just as crooked as this tie.” She held up the fabric in her hands. “And I think you look dashing in ties.”
“Are you nervous?” he asked, watching her go through the motions of tieing it.
She thought for a moment. “Not really. I’ve known almost all these people since childhood and have grown up with many of them. And to be honest, technically I’m related to all of them in some way, no matter how distant the relation is.”
Brian nodded in response, looking at his reflection in the mirror. 
No matter if his tie was crooked, he wasn’t sure he would be enough for them. He didn’t think that a simple man like him, nothing more to his name than a talent that many possed, was good enough for people that had more riches than they knew what to do with. They would probably look down on him, wonder what he had to offer Y/n, her family, and Andorra. He wasn’t a duke or a lord, he hadn’t served in the military, and he wasn’t wealthy beyond his wildest dreams. Some may believe that he was only with her for the money. 
In their eyes, he was probably like dirt, useless and not worth their time.
“What are you thinking?” Y/n asked when she was finished with the tie.
“Just how beautiful you are,” he smiled, but it failed to meet his eyes.
She raised a brow, putting her hands on her hip. “Lying to me isn’t going to get you anywhere, Brian. Now, what are you really thinking?”
He huffed, running a hand down his face. “I just don’t think I’m enough. Not for them with all their money and fancy house and regal titles. It’s not like I can bring much to the table, I’m a fucking rock star for crying out loud. That’s about as classy as a bread maker.”
“Darling,” she cooed, caressing his cheek. “You are enough. You don’t have to have enough money to fill an ocean, a house that people can get lost in, or a title that makes you seem better than those around you. You bring more to the table than you think. You are a rock star, yes, one that writes and performs amazing songs and not only that, but you are probably going to be the smartest person in the room tonight.”
He gave her a sheepish smile, ashamed that he had brought it up. 
“Now, I’m gonna put my shoes on and we’re gonna head downstairs. My mother would be furious if we were tarty.”
*~~*~~*
Y/n stood next to Brian in the decked out ballroom. The gold trimmings on the wall had been polished til they shone like the sun and red roses littered the tables that were placed in one of the corners of the large room. It was clear when they walked in that Brian was taken back by the beauty of the room, with the rich paintings of past and grand chandeliers. His eyes lite up like a child when he was the vivid colors and brush strokes.
“Is this going to be like in the movies where everyone gets formally introduced?” Brian whispered into her ear.
Y/n couldn’t help but smile at the question. “No, silly. This is a charity ball, not the type of ball Cinderella would be seen at.”
He chuckled, turning to see that people were starting to enter. Ladies in long gowns of a multitude of colors walked through the archway, men at their sides in black suits. All wearing jewels and ribbons to set them apart from each other. 
“Who’s that?” Brian whispered, gesturing to a woman in a red gown, a crown atop her head.
“That’s Queen Margrethe II of Denmark and that-” She pointed to the man beside her. “-is her husband Prince Henrik.”
“Are they nice people?”
“Lovely, absolutely lovely, but try not to start up a conversation with Prince Henrik, it will last for hours.”
The next couple of minutes continued like that. Brian would inquire about the different monarchs that walked passed them and Y/n would explain to him who they were and if they were really worth his time. Most were, but there were a few lower level royals that he needed to stay away from. The ones that were out for the money they believed they deserved. 
With everyone in the room, the ball was in full swing. The band played waltz after waltz and the staff brought around drinks, trying their best to not get bumped into. Somewhere in all the festivities, Y/n lost Brian. He had slipped between the cracks of people and was out of sight. She knew it was foolish to be worried about him, he was a grown man, but these people were like her family. Sure, their opinions didn’t weigh as much as her parents did, but she’d grown up with most of them, spent holidays together, celebrated and mourned with those people. They followed certain rules of etiquette of that Brian wasn’t accustomed too and they expected more from others than most. It would be devastating if they were uneasy about letting him into the family.
Y/n weaved between bodies, watching her feet so she didn’t step on someone's skirt or get tripped up on feet. She placed her empty wine glass on a passing tray as someone called her name. Turning around, her face lite up. “Anne!”
“Y/n,” the woman smiled, walking towards her.
“I didn’t think you’d be here.”
“I wouldn’t miss a chance to see you,” Anne said, embracing her friend. “Well, and the man in your life.”
Y/n’s cheeks heated up, at least someone was excited about her boyfriend. “Honestly, I live in London, I don’t know why I don’t come see you more.”
Anne shrugged. “Different schedules. Nothing we can do about it but plan in advance.”
She nodded, taking a deep breath as she surveyed the crowd. She’d thought that with his height and hair, picking Brian out of the crowd would be easy, but it was anything but that. “How’s Charles doing? I haven’t seen him in ages.”
“He’s doing all right, moody, but alright.”
Y/n raised a brow, waiting for more information.
Anne picked up a glass of wine from a passing tray and took a sip. “Mother wants him to hurry up and find a wife. She's not going to live forever and England will not only need a king when she’d gone but an heir as well.”
“And he doesn’t want that right now?”
“No, he wants anything but that.”
Y/n nodded. 
She understood that all too well. Certain things were expected of heirs and them straying away from those things wasn’t one of them. Y/n had watched her oldest brother go through that. It was painful to watch as he struggled to figure out who he wanted to be. Did he want to break his father’s heart and chase after his dreams or become the king he was born to be? It was a hard question to answer when his heart wanted both. At least, he had time, as did Charles, to figure out who he wanted to be.
“Where’s your boyfriend?” Anne asked.
Y/n sighed, trying to see if she could spot him. “That is a good question.”
“You lost him in a room full of royals?” the British princess looked at her in disbelief. 
She nodded. “I know.”
Anne shook her head. “Kiss that man goodbye if the Barrow sisters are here.”
The sisters were just two of the handful of royals that Y/n tried to stay away from, urging Brian to do the same. No one was quite sure what the Barrow sisters wanted more; money or sex. At royal events they attended, women generally hung tight to their men, not willing to lose them to the sisters. Obviously, Y/n hadn’t hung tight enough. 
The pair of royals looked over their shoulders as a thunderous laugh hit their ears. Y/n was in shock as her eyes landed on Brian and King Olva of Norway laughing like old friends. It wouldn’t have been a strange scene if Olva had a sense of humor. But it took many failed attempts to get a laugh out of the monarch.
“Oh my god,” she let out, her eyes as wide as saucers.
“I assume that’s your man,” Anne pointed at the bushy-haired man. 
All Y/n could do was stare at what played out in front of her. And to think she was worried. It was clear she had nothing to worry about. Her family would gladly accept him now seeing as how he had done something that no one had accomplished in years, maybe decades.
“It sure is,” she said with a smile.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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sabraeal · 5 years
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The Call Which Carries You Home
He Who Fell in the Sea | Previous Selkie AU
Obiyuki Week, Day 3 Gluttony | Charity
He’s not used to the lights in Lyrias, not anymore.
Sereg may be shoved into the furthest, most godforsaken corner of the country, but it was a military installation, funded for by the crown and kept in the best condition. It would not do for the men on its walls to think more of the contents of their stomach or the lumps of their mattress than what lurked in the dark. It has been a decade since Clarines went to war, but no one has forgotten what they learned. A single flinch could change the tide, when brother fought against brother.
The lamps were always full at the knights’ circle, each sconce blaring like its own sun, every hall lit up like daybreak. But here in Lyrias --
Well, most scholars don’t want to spent their budget on things like candles and lamp oil, not when they only use the dorms for sleeping.
Miss’s back treads before him in the dim, the black of her cloak making her little more than a shape glimpsed through dark waters, a swimmer lost in the fog. Each time they pass a lamp, her gold stitching glitters, outlining the proud set of her shoulders with St. Elmo’s fire. She cuts through shadow as a hull cuts through a swell, never a moment’s hesitation.
He ducks his chin, smothering a smile. Of course. No matter what tricks his eyes play on him, Miss has never truly been adrift in her life. She’s got a compass where her heart should be, and it always points her home.
Welcome home. 
A breath rasps out of his lungs, ugly and awkward; a seal’s groan from a human throat. Goosebumps pimple his arms, his legs, and, ah, even his scalp tingles, so tight he’s sure his hair must be on end, trying to figure out which way is up.
If Miss hears, she doesn’t give a sign of it, just forging on through each twist and turn. The slope of her shoulders before him is as familiar to Obi as the ache in his chest, as the beat of his heart. He’d been half-lost at the castle, each step taken on the wrong foot, but he’s hardly been back an hour and already he’s back on course. It’s so much easier to find himself when his north star is just above him.
Welcome home.
She’s right before him and his palms itch, his pelt growing heavier by the step. Obi’s not supposed to touch her, not supposed to get in the way, but he’d seen her in the street, had met eyes with her through the press, raised his hand and --
And he had not known until her gaze hooked his, until her eyes lit with recognition and she took that first trembling step toward him, how long he had been holding his breath. Each one at Sereg had been like gulping down seawater, drowning so slowly he hadn’t even noticed, hadn’t even felt it until he looked at her and took his first pull of air in weeks.
Welcome home.
She had said that to him, to him. His wrists still burn where she held them, and he cannot forget the way his hands felt wrapped around her hips, how light she had felt in his arms --
He shakes his head. Ah, he thought he might be used to her touch by now, but -- her hands in his fur and her hands on his skin are two different things, and though it was muted through the leather of his gloves he still -- still--
He wants her to do it again.
The castle’s sconces set her hair ablaze each time they pass, and he’s sharply reminded of the last time he walked these halls. He had been alone then, dressed for bed, breathless, and she -- she had answered her door the same way, his pelt clutched to her chest.
She couldn’t have known what she’d done, what he’d done, but she’d looked up at him with dark eyes and --
He shouldn’t think about that. The guilt had practically eaten him alive when he was with Master, those thoughts creeping up on him in the silent moments between. They’d snuck in while he traveled to Sereg, while he’d waited for Master to make his decision, while he’d laid in bed with physicians fussing over him, telling him he’d best stay there another week.
Obi had tried, at least. But idle hands did him no good when he had thoughts like these waiting to overtake him.
Miss might scold, but it was worth it to be free of -- of that. Save that here they are again with her right here before him and --
“Your hair got long.”
He blinks, but Miss is already pinking up quite nicely, her hand hesitating over her door. “I mean, longer.”
This, he can deal with. His teeth peek between his lips. “It’s only been a month, Miss.”
“I know that!” She fusses with the knob, flush creeping up the pale skin of her neck. “I just...noticed it. Now.”
He hums, eyeing where her own hair falls on her back. “Yours looks longer too.”
Her hand flies up, fingering the ends of her hair, and though her back is to him, he sees her cheeks round in a soft grin. “It’s only been a month.”
“Well,” he murmurs, far too close, the spice of her soap tickling his nose. “I only just noticed.”
“Go sit on the bed,” she tells him, opening the door. “I still want to take a look at that cut.”
“It’s all healed,” he protests, even though his side tweaks the moment he lifts his arm to fuss at the buckle for his cape. “Clean bill of health.”
Mostly.
The looks she turns on him is dubious. “That’s not what Mitsuhide’s letter said.”
He should have known Sir would tattle. “Well, Sir is not exactly the best judge of...”
Words desert him as he slips tongue though buckle and allows his pelt to slither down his side, and Miss --
Her gaze follows it, heavy and dark, until it hits the mattress with a slump.  Even when he starts in on his coat, her eyes are on it, breath coming out in a labored rasp, body unnaturally still. If he didn’t know any better --
Well, he’d say she was holding back. That the look in her eye might be something like hunger.
She blinks, dragging her gaze back up to his, and flushes under the question in it.
“You should...” She takes a moment to shut the door behind her, and once again she hesitates before turning back, before taking a few more fluttering steps into the room. “You should lay down. It’s on your side, isn’t it?”
He lets out a huff, annoyed, but drops himself to the mattress, rucking up his shirt until it’s up under his armpits. “I should have known he’d tell you.”
Miss hums, buzzing in close, fingers brushing over his skin. His breath catches, tingling where her fingers press, but if she notices, she gives no sign. “It wasn’t him.”
A laugh barks out of him, incredulous. “Then who--?”
“You did.” She flicks him out of those sly glances that makes him want to kiss her. “Outside. Remember? A-tt-tt, my side!”
She’s far too proud of herself. “I don’t sound like that.”
“Mm.” Obi knows every flavor of Miss’s mms, and this one is distinctly not an agreement. “You’ve taken good care of this.”
Praise cuts straight through his annoyance, and he can’t help but preen. “I did promise Miss I would be more careful.”
Her mouth quirks, just the slightest bit. “And I promised I would never let you scar.”
Her hand presses softly to the wound -- one that almost certainly will leave a mark -- and lets out a sigh. Against his skin, he could swear he feels her heart beating its swift tattoo.
“Is it different now?”
He can only stare at her, unsure of what she could possibly mean.
“You hair,” she clarifies. “Is it different, now that you’ve let it grown out?”
It’s a whole new world. He’d thought himself sensitive before, but now colors are brighter, smells are sharper, and he moves as if the world has gained another dimension.
“I don’t need so much spice in my food,” he says instead, because anything else feels too intimate with so little space between them. “And I don’t get myself stuck in tight places.”
She lets out a grunt of a giggle. “You never did before.”
“Ah, didn’t I?” He waggles his eyebrows. “Or did you never catch me?”
Miss smiles, but suddenly her touch is gone, only a memory of her warmth lingering against his skin.
“All right,” she sighs, taking a step back. “You can get up, if you like.”
He doesn’t like; he wants to stay right here, breathing in the soft lilac of her sheets, but Obi also knows a dismissal when he hears one. Doubtlessly Miss has a hundred other things she would rather be taking care of than him.
He levers himself up, rolling the film of his shirt back over his stomach. Next to him, his pelt lays crumpled on the bed, smooth and sable as always, and --
He could keep it. He could wear it every day, a choice he continues to not make, hold his own reins --
“This is yours.” His hand is already outstretched, fur spilling over his fingers, holding it like a small child might hold out a favorite blanket. Miss stares down at it with eyes so wide he can almost see the whites around them.
She won’t take it, he knows. Miss has never liked keeping it away, never liked forcing him to stay when he longed to be elsewhere, longed to be home -- but his home is right here, and if he doesn’t give it to her, if he keeps it and catches the song of his sisters --
Sparks shoot up his spine, his knees nearly going out from underneath him as her hand closes around the edge of it and rubs. A cry tears from his chest, hungry and inhuman, and she can’t possibly have missed it, can’t possibly --
“Obi?” She’s never said his name this way, so thoughtful and yet...more. “You seem tense.”
A breath raggedly escapes from his lungs, and -- what can he say, when all his world had melted away to where her fingers idly trace patterns into his fur, like nails scraping down his back in the most delicious way.
“Would you like me to help you?”
He’s so turned around that he almost thinks she’s offering something else, something Master’s Mistress has no right offering, but then he remembers -- relaxation. Just what they have always done, her hands on his pelt and him laying near, feeling safe in her company.
Or near enough, save for that last time, the night before he left--
“Yes,” he chokes around the knot in his throat. “That...yes.”
It’s been a month, he knows, but somehow it’s too long; the moment she kneels on the bed, pelt spread over her knees and not even touching, he just -- whines. Like a mutt who’s seen a lamb chop through a window.
Miss doesn’t raise her gaze, but her eyelashes flutter and her mouth curves, and he knows she heard.
“You should sit,” she says, and there is far too much amusement her tone for his comfort. “I wouldn’t want you to hurt yourself.”
He sniffs disdainfully, and for the entire circuitous route he takes to her bed, he refuses to look at her. In a fair and just world, she would be seared by his scathing disdain, be entirely repentant --
Instead, her shoulders shake. She’s laughing.
With a huff, he settles himself by the footboard, legs hanging off so the balls of his feet still brace on the floor. It’s a safe distance; any closer and he might smell her, might touch her -- and with the memories of before haunting him, with the way she welcomed him home --
He’s already reading far too much into this. She’s just -- offering comfort, as she always has.
Neither of them speak, but when his weight dips the mattress her lips curl at the corner, and her palms stretch flat on the fur.
He sighs into it, the phantom pressure of her hands warm over the curve of his back. When she moves them, stroking slowly, surely, his head tips back. He’s never felt a touch like hers; every other hand to hold his pelt has set his teeth on edge, but with Miss it’s nearly a massage, working out all the tension beneath his skin.
Perhaps this is the way of it, for his kind. He was stolen from his sisters too young to know, and now --
Well, if he ever saw them again, he certainly wouldn’t let them touch him like this.
Her hands are halfway down his spine when she laughs, and he jolts, nearly topping over. He’d been half asleep, listing where he sat.
“Obi.” Her voice slips over him like her hands do, too warm and inviting. “Why don’t you lay down?”
She pats her lap -- tap tap, just over his kidneys -- and it’s not the first time she’s offered, nor even the first time he’s taken, but --
It feels dangerous, with all these thoughts rattling around in his head, making the air feel heavy with more. Still, it doesn’t stop him; she pats her lap again and he just tips, settling with his head pillowed by her thigh, pelt soft under his cheek.
She starts again, running a hand right along his shoulders, making him sink further into her, face nuzzled right against her belly. It’s better like this, with both his skin and her scent so close to him, more lulling, and she’s barely stroked him twice before he’s drifting again, the siren call of sleep luring him under --
Until he jolts, fingers clutching at the duvet, heart pounding in his chest. Her hands hover, uncertain, as he gasps hard against her belly.
“O-Obi?” Her voice is small, worried. “Did I--?”
“No. Just -- my hair,” he manages. “It’s..sensitive.”
An understatement. If whiskers feel like this naturally, then he’s sorry for every cat he’s ever touched.
“Oh.” It’s hardly more than a breath, her palms settling flat against her thighs. Their phantom warmth presses against his back, and -- that helps, at least, even if he’s still strung tight like a bowstring. “Hm.”
That’s his only warning -- one thoughtful hum, and then her fingers drag deep furrows into his pelt, down and down, towards her knees and --
He arches off the bed with a gasp, writhing as he feels the warmth of her hands around the base of his cock. His breath rasps out of him, humid where he’s pressed himself into her belly, and it takes everything in him not to grind his hips into the mattress, not to get some relief from the way her fingers have sunk into his belly fur --
Her hand lifts, burying itself deep into his hair, nails scraping his scalp, and --
Her grabs her, fingers wrapped tight, purposeful around her wrist.
“Miss,” he rumbles,  peeking up at her with a gaze he knows says too much. “Either keep your hand on the pelt, or lay on it.”
Her jaw drops as wide as her eyes, and for a moment he thinks he’s made his point, that she will balk and retreat to the safer boundaries of touch, but -- but --
Haah, no. It’s not in his Miss to retreat. Her lip takes a determined just, and with barely a moment of hesitation she plunges both hands deep into his hair, every nerve in him alight as he bolts upright, meaning to close the space between them as she spills back --
“Obi!”
He leaps back just before the door bursts open, Suzu collapsing breathlessly over his knees. He must have run all the way here. It would have been touching, if, well...
“You’re alive!” Suzu cries out between gasps, hand pressed to his chest.
“I am,” Obi agrees, maybe a little terse.
“What did you expect? I told you I saw him,” Yuzuri complains, tucking herself between Suzu’s arm and the door. Her bright gaze fixes on him, smile curling her mouth, and she opens her mouth --
Only for her eyes to flick to Miss, and then to him, and then to the entire room between them.
“Well, you’ve seen him, Suzu,” she says brusquely, practically shoving him out the door. “You can work easy now.
If anything, this only makes him struggle harder. “But--”
“I think Obi and Shirayuki have things to talk about. Important things!” she says, with the sort of strident, pointed tone that implies he knows exactly what those things are, and he better not ruin it. If only she knew just how well Obi had done that, all on his.
“But--!”
Yuzuri shoves him the last little bit out of the room. “Good, glad we understand each other.” She leans back, smile bright and too-knowing. “Glad to see you’re alive, Obi.”
“Thanks,” he grits out, but it’s covered by the slam of the door. And then once again, he’s alone with Miss.
Only it’s different this time. Tense.
“Obi--”
“Master is looking forward to seeing you,” he says, because he’s never met a good thing he deserved.
“Oh.” her face crumples with confusions. “Did he say that?”
Obi hesitates, before forcing the smile on his face. “He doesn’t need to, Miss.”
Her mouth pulls thin. “He might try, once in a while.”
It’s dangerous being here when she says things like that. Hearing his own thoughts from her lips is too intoxicating.
“I should get going.” The words come out far to breathless. “If you don’t think I’m going to die, His Lordship will want to hear my report.”
“Oh.” She steps back from him. “Right. Of course. Yes. You look..fine. Very healthy.”
“Yeah, I feel it,” he lies. “I should--”
“Take this.” Miss’s arm thrusts out, pelt dangling from the end of it. “You should really...keep it.”
He should, he should.
“No.” His hand curls over hers, clasping it tighter around his pelt. “It’s where it’s supposed to be.”
He can’t bring himself to say what he means, but she pulls it to her chest, looking up at him with such bright eyes, that he wonders if she can hear it.
Home.
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taradiddled · 4 years
Text
I guess people are sharing their fanons for Hans’s mom, so I’ll share mine for Hans’s mom the way I’ve written her in “Breaking the Frozen Heart”. 
She was born Kristiana Grete Hansen. Her mother, Grete Auken was the daughter of a princess of the Southern Isles, and her father, Johannes Hansen, owned a large estate with a plentiful apple orchard on the Isles’ countryside.
Kristiana was her parents’ only child, and had a very happy childhood running around her father’s orchards. She was raised without restrictions, and thus was not expected to conform to expectations of a lady of noble status. She never expected to have to marry in the future -- as her father’s sole heir, she would inherit the orchards, husband or no husband.
Her best friend was a wild, red-furred fox, with piercing emerald eyes. Kristiana used to chase her fox friend all around the orchards, playing tag, climbing apple trees, and rolling in the soft green grass in the afternoons.
It was perfect.
But then, when Kristiana was sixteen, her father suffered an injury to the neck out in the orchards, and he died, leaving his wife in charge. Grete found the entire business too overwhelming, unable to manage the orchard’s finances, and struggling to keep up with the business’s supply and demand. Kristiana would offer to help, but Grete refused every time, not wanting to put the burden upon her daughter.
Finally, the stress would be too much, and Grete would call on her mother’s side of the family for help -- the Westergaards. Both Grete and Kristiana waited nervously for help to come, and then, it did, in the form of one Prince Sigurd, heir to the throne.
Prince Sigurd was Grete’s cousin, and thus, Kristiana’s second cousin. He was handsome, charming, but also very cunning and ill-tempered when he had his moments. While Kristiana was grateful for Sigurd’s assistance, she did not find Sigurd quite so appealing. Unfortunately for Kristiana, the same could not be said of her appeal to Sigurd.
Sigurd had two reasons for aiding Grete and Kristiana. One was the profits the orchards would bring him now that he was a partner. The second was Kristiana, who Sigurd wanted for his bride. While Kristiana resisted Sigurd’s attempts to court her, Grete believed Kristiana would be better suited as the Prince’s wife, and practically pushed Kristiana into accepting Sigurd’s proposal. Also pushing Kristiana into marrying Sigurd was Sigurd himself, as he threatened to pull out of his partnership with the Hansen family’s orchards, taking all the profit and leaving Grete and Kristiana destitute.
Kristiana left behind her father’s estate to become Sigurd’s wife, quickly finding herself something of a country bumpkin once in the capital. Her mother-in-law, Alma, had not approved of Sigurd’s choice in a bride, and forced Kristiana to transform herself into an entirely different person, changing her name, and modifying her mannerisms.
Kristiana became Christine, and, once Sigurd’s father, the King, passed away not two years after Christine and Sigurd married, she became Queen Christine of the Southern Isles. She was six months pregnant with her and Sigurd’s second son, Wilhelm, when she was crowned alongside her husband in a lavish ceremony, smiling kindly to her subjects and waving genially to the crowds.
She began her queenship by focusing upon charities in the Isles. She often ventured beyond the castle to see her subjects and walk among them, and, for a year’s time, Sigurd allowed this. But then Christine became pregnant with their third son, Lars, and suddenly, Christine started staying in the castle much longer, accompanied by her mother-in-law, who was almost constantly criticizing Christine, while henpecking Sigurd. Sigurd and Christine’s marriage was fraught with arguments, spurred on by Sigurd’s temper and his predilection to a strong drink. Alongside his mother, he verbally and emotionally abused Christine, as well as physically abused her when his tempers would reach a breaking point.
Perhaps Christine could have taken some solace from her children, but her mother-in-law hardly allowed Christine much time with the princes, separating mother and children. All this contributed to Christine’s departure from the royal spotlight, and by the time Christine gave Sigurd a fifth son, Christine hardly ventured outside the castle at all.
And so, for the next thirteen years, Christine gave Sigurd seven more sons, astounding the royal physicians. Each son was taken from Christine to be instructed further by the Dowager Queen, and though Christine begged to be with her children, her mother-in-law refused, and Christine became so very lonely.
That was when her fox friend from the orchards returned to Christine in her time of need, and they tearfully reunited.
Ten months following that reunion, Hans was born. He had his mother’s nose, her freckles, the Westergaard trait of red hair. But while Sigurd’s eyes were blue, and Christine’s were brown, Hans was born with eyes green like emeralds.
Christine begged Sigurd to allow her to raise Hans herself. She cried at his feet, pleading. And to Christine’s relief, Sigurd finally agreed. So, for four beautiful, wonderful years, Christine raised Hans, her very special, darling, apple of a boy. He was her sunshine and all her happiness come to life, and Christine treasured him so. But all that came to an end when Hans turned five, and Sigurd took the boy away from Christine.
Christine cried for Sigurd to return Hans to her, but Sigurd refused. Instead, he gave his wife a bottle of wine, and told her to make do.
So Christine did.
For twenty damn years.
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