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About Me
Hey,
I am new to the Inner Sanctum and I am a roleplayer in my 20s. I've been a roleplayer for the last 6 years off and on and a writer/world builder off and on for longer. I love collaborative writing, bouncing ideas off of a partner, and getting to geek out about our characters together. I've been known to create playlists and collect Pinterest pins that make me think about a roleplay.
Genre
I write original characters and original worlds instead of fandom. I believe and prefer making my own because I'm going to be a pale shadow to the original. My favorite genre is not-modern (I generally say medieval to express this concept but don't necessarily mean truly medieval) fantasy. I've done high and low fantasy. I like having the flexibility to not be 100% accurate and to get to be creative and world build. I tend to shy away from modern settings, but I am still open to slice-of-life and more modern or futuristic topics. My roleplays tend to have some expectation of romance in them, but I'd also be down for a platonic roleplay. In that case, I can do any pairing. However, with romance in mind I only do FxM. If the romance is much more than PG13, then I would prefer to be the female. However, if it is kept PG 13, then I can play male or female. I prefer playing one main character, but I can double if needed.
I must admit that I am not the darkest writer. I go for angst, and I want emotion and tension in my roleplay, but I have a soft spot for happy endings, so I'm not sure if I can put a list of lines that I absolutely won't do when it comes to mature topics. I have characters that I also use to roleplay where I call the story that I have given them their "Canon Story." In some Canon Stories, there are mature darker themes, so I'm not opposed. Bottom line is that the more sensitive the topic, I'm going to need more communication and establish trust and rapport with my partner before attempting such things. If it makes sense for our roleplay and we are clicking we can talk about it. I'm not big on writing smut. I like feelings and build up, but don't want that to be the focus. (Aim for the Dark Alley)
I am about to start a new work schedule, so I'll have to figure out when the best times are. I'll be more available on weekends, but I should get at least a response once a week if not more. Feel free to poke at me if it's been more than five days. I like responses to be averaging 750-1000 words. I have done 400-2000+ words. I need something long enough for me to know that we've both put in effort, but not so long that I'm completely intimidated by having to write a response.
Requirements for Partner
~ Rosencrantz
There are a few ways I'll try to give inspiration for plots. We could make a plot out of some pairings, I have some plots listed to spring board plotting, and/or you could choose one of my listed characters to roleplay with or we can start completely from scratch, but I find it's helpful to have something to start the conversation with.
If this is helpful here are a few roleplay examples taken from roleplays so a little odd out of context
Hey,
I am new to the Inner Sanctum and I am a roleplayer in my 20s. I've been a roleplayer for the last 6 years off and on and a writer/world builder off and on for longer. I love collaborative writing, bouncing ideas off of a partner, and getting to geek out about our characters together. I've been known to create playlists and collect Pinterest pins that make me think about a roleplay.
Genre
I write original characters and original worlds instead of fandom. I believe and prefer making my own because I'm going to be a pale shadow to the original. My favorite genre is not-modern (I generally say medieval to express this concept but don't necessarily mean truly medieval) fantasy. I've done high and low fantasy. I like having the flexibility to not be 100% accurate and to get to be creative and world build. I tend to shy away from modern settings, but I am still open to slice-of-life and more modern or futuristic topics. My roleplays tend to have some expectation of romance in them, but I'd also be down for a platonic roleplay. In that case, I can do any pairing. However, with romance in mind I only do FxM. If the romance is much more than PG13, then I would prefer to be the female. However, if it is kept PG 13, then I can play male or female. I prefer playing one main character, but I can double if needed.
I must admit that I am not the darkest writer. I go for angst, and I want emotion and tension in my roleplay, but I have a soft spot for happy endings, so I'm not sure if I can put a list of lines that I absolutely won't do when it comes to mature topics. I have characters that I also use to roleplay where I call the story that I have given them their "Canon Story." In some Canon Stories, there are mature darker themes, so I'm not opposed. Bottom line is that the more sensitive the topic, I'm going to need more communication and establish trust and rapport with my partner before attempting such things. If it makes sense for our roleplay and we are clicking we can talk about it. I'm not big on writing smut. I like feelings and build up, but don't want that to be the focus. (Aim for the Dark Alley)
I am about to start a new work schedule, so I'll have to figure out when the best times are. I'll be more available on weekends, but I should get at least a response once a week if not more. Feel free to poke at me if it's been more than five days. I like responses to be averaging 750-1000 words. I have done 400-2000+ words. I need something long enough for me to know that we've both put in effort, but not so long that I'm completely intimidated by having to write a response.
Requirements for Partner
- 18+ partner
- Frequent responder to OOC even if it's just questions about the roleplay (I realize some don't want to become besties with their roleplay partner)
- Aim for one response per week or more (I will probably respond more if the responses are shorter, but if they are too short then I'll get bored.)
- Communication - let me know if something is affecting your ability to roleplay and about the roleplay
- Respond with 500+ words and help move the plot along
- (Not a requirement) I prefer having some type of character sheet to throw information as we go along to reference such as appearance and other things that I tend to forget, but not necessary
~ Rosencrantz
~~~~~~~
PlotsThere are a few ways I'll try to give inspiration for plots. We could make a plot out of some pairings, I have some plots listed to spring board plotting, and/or you could choose one of my listed characters to roleplay with or we can start completely from scratch, but I find it's helpful to have something to start the conversation with.
Guard, Soldier, Noble, Mermaid, Assassin, Pirate, Thief, Commoner, Servant, Healer
Fairy Tale Twist
Something I used to be obsessed with was Fairytale twists. Taking a fairytale and making it your own or combining it with other fairytales.
Gladiator
Seasoned soldier (female) decides to participate in a gladiator competition and wins. Prince is intrigued, finds her after the tournament, and begins to flirt, but is turned down because of his arrogance. (He probably asks her out in a weird way.) He isn't used to being rejected, and it starts a rivalry between the two. She is forced to become a royal guard, which furthers the rivalry until they start to learn from each other, and there might be something else brewing…
Noble x Assassin
A noble is targeted by a family member who wants to move up the line to become heir to the throne. The assassin poses as a loyal guard. The noble does not have friends and manages to subtly thwart the assassin's attempts, which is not obvious at first to the assassin. The noble considers the assassin their closest friend and eventually wins over the assassin.
Puppeteer
The woman is the real power behind the throne. She is the one who makes the decisions, and the king is very much a puppet and the face of the throne. The identity of the woman is secret. While some of the more perceptive nobles realize that the king does not have the power, most people are unaware of the arrangement. The ruler is passed down from female ruler to female ruler as she adopts someone as her heir or raises her own daughter. The female ruler can be anyone. She may be very well known in public but this side of her life is always kept secret.
Gang and a god
There is a gang that encounters a fallen deity on the road. The deity could've decided to personify as human and got hurt by someone or something as they adventured the earth or the deity has something in mind for this gang. The other deities get annoyed with the human one's antics.
The Prophecy
The Prophecy said that one would come and save the world. What happens in the world where a disgruntled hater kills the savior and becomes an evil overlord? What will happen to the not dealt with threat? Will the evils combine?
goddess of peace
The goddess of peace is not who people thought she was. In a world as messed up as this one, she had to take a lot on herself to achieve what her followers termed peace, but she knew that true peace could only be achieved if everyone died. She becomes tired of fighting with corrupt violent humans. Maybe she becomes the goddess of death and destruction and someone rises up in her place to be the god(dess) of peace. They become Shalom and are willing to continually fight to bind the world back together. (there would be a Pantheon) gods can be born from drastic events, birth, and war. (Another god idea, a god of law, promises, and covenants)
Modern Reversion
A group of people who want to return the world back to the pre-industrial revolution age. They span across the whole globe and work together to bring down everything without causing the world to be uninhabitable. (Does an accident happen and all humans have to move to space?)
Something I used to be obsessed with was Fairytale twists. Taking a fairytale and making it your own or combining it with other fairytales.
Gladiator
Seasoned soldier (female) decides to participate in a gladiator competition and wins. Prince is intrigued, finds her after the tournament, and begins to flirt, but is turned down because of his arrogance. (He probably asks her out in a weird way.) He isn't used to being rejected, and it starts a rivalry between the two. She is forced to become a royal guard, which furthers the rivalry until they start to learn from each other, and there might be something else brewing…
Noble x Assassin
A noble is targeted by a family member who wants to move up the line to become heir to the throne. The assassin poses as a loyal guard. The noble does not have friends and manages to subtly thwart the assassin's attempts, which is not obvious at first to the assassin. The noble considers the assassin their closest friend and eventually wins over the assassin.
Puppeteer
The woman is the real power behind the throne. She is the one who makes the decisions, and the king is very much a puppet and the face of the throne. The identity of the woman is secret. While some of the more perceptive nobles realize that the king does not have the power, most people are unaware of the arrangement. The ruler is passed down from female ruler to female ruler as she adopts someone as her heir or raises her own daughter. The female ruler can be anyone. She may be very well known in public but this side of her life is always kept secret.
Gang and a god
There is a gang that encounters a fallen deity on the road. The deity could've decided to personify as human and got hurt by someone or something as they adventured the earth or the deity has something in mind for this gang. The other deities get annoyed with the human one's antics.
The Prophecy
The Prophecy said that one would come and save the world. What happens in the world where a disgruntled hater kills the savior and becomes an evil overlord? What will happen to the not dealt with threat? Will the evils combine?
goddess of peace
The goddess of peace is not who people thought she was. In a world as messed up as this one, she had to take a lot on herself to achieve what her followers termed peace, but she knew that true peace could only be achieved if everyone died. She becomes tired of fighting with corrupt violent humans. Maybe she becomes the goddess of death and destruction and someone rises up in her place to be the god(dess) of peace. They become Shalom and are willing to continually fight to bind the world back together. (there would be a Pantheon) gods can be born from drastic events, birth, and war. (Another god idea, a god of law, promises, and covenants)
Modern Reversion
A group of people who want to return the world back to the pre-industrial revolution age. They span across the whole globe and work together to bring down everything without causing the world to be uninhabitable. (Does an accident happen and all humans have to move to space?)
Joanna Regan - A kind friendly thief
Seraphina Michal - A brazen commoner (I do have a story for her, but she is flexible in what roles she can fit for a roleplay)
Kaileigh Michal (fantasy/medieval AU)/Kailey Aukai (modern AU)- a silly friendly princess, or a goofy ordinary girl
Pandora - A fighter (soldier/guard) whose purpose is to protect
Ireshi Chakri - a level headed princess with common sense
Sebastian Finchley - A low ranking noble
Astaroth Reed Valentine - an arrogant higher ranked noble, who is a middle child of many siblings
Belseleth Arnold (Bel/Seth) - an austere healer
Finnegan Aleister - outdoorsy energetic impulsive
Jack Lancaster - a frosty assassin
Seraphina Michal - A brazen commoner (I do have a story for her, but she is flexible in what roles she can fit for a roleplay)
Kaileigh Michal (fantasy/medieval AU)/Kailey Aukai (modern AU)- a silly friendly princess, or a goofy ordinary girl
Pandora - A fighter (soldier/guard) whose purpose is to protect
Ireshi Chakri - a level headed princess with common sense
Sebastian Finchley - A low ranking noble
Astaroth Reed Valentine - an arrogant higher ranked noble, who is a middle child of many siblings
Belseleth Arnold (Bel/Seth) - an austere healer
Finnegan Aleister - outdoorsy energetic impulsive
Jack Lancaster - a frosty assassin
If this is helpful here are a few roleplay examples taken from roleplays so a little odd out of context
He tensed noticeably when she reached her hand towards his. Was he making a mistake not trying to carve her heart out and destroying it? Would he have been able to do it? Although he had Aphelion related abilities, he found it intimidating to be faced with what he assumed was a full Aphelion. He accepted the ring from her and only spared a moment to observe the hefty weight and notice the symbol on it. It was the dead nobleman's. He hadn't expected her to offer him proof that he had done the kill. At most he had expected her to be ambivalent.
He hoped that he hadn't stepped into a much bigger plot than what he was seeing now where this was some plot to frame him for something. Admittedly, he had planned to do the assassination, so it shouldn't matter too much. He decided to assume that she was meaning to keep this quiet and he would be able to lie to the one who had hired him and get paid without a hitch. He realized now that she had managed to not wake anyone in the house. Surely, she wasn't planning on getting caught.
"Thanks," he tipped the hand with the ring towards her before stowing it away so both hands were free. "What place was wrong? What do you want? I have no interest in the family either. I am always surprised by the amount of mortals that welcome an Aphelion. There is no way they did not know that he was Aphelion." His voice was bewildered and a little indignant.
He realized that he hadn't tried to keep his senses open to other Aphelions or even people. It probably wasn't wise that they were sitting ducks for anyone to wake up in the middle of the night. "Uhhh..." He felt embarrassed for filling the silence like a speechless schoolboy. He had been distracted by her killing his target, but now that she mentioned it, he focused on her trying to detect what she was referencing. He furrowed his brow realizing she did feel different. He knew about how Aphelions could sense each other, and he had never been sure if his ability to feel negative things enhanced that common Aphelion ability or if he did not have that ability and only had the one relating to his father.
He cocked his head. If she couldn't gain power through gathering a following was she as much an Aphelion as he was, but she was definitely something different. She was right. He could sense many presences inside of her, and they did not feel positive. He was confused how they got there. How could multiple presences be in one person? What was she? "Is curiosity an option?" he responded. Oh...Nice. She could siphon abilities. Did that include him? Is that what the preying on the nobleman was about? He doubted that was an appropriate question or one she would answer. It seemed like something someone kept to themself. "Do you siphon abilities you want?" What abilities did she want? "Why are you different? Who are you?"
"I think I should be going. There is nothing here for me to do, and I would prefer not to wake the whole house because someone stumbles across this scene." He began to edge back towards the exit.
He hoped that he hadn't stepped into a much bigger plot than what he was seeing now where this was some plot to frame him for something. Admittedly, he had planned to do the assassination, so it shouldn't matter too much. He decided to assume that she was meaning to keep this quiet and he would be able to lie to the one who had hired him and get paid without a hitch. He realized now that she had managed to not wake anyone in the house. Surely, she wasn't planning on getting caught.
"Thanks," he tipped the hand with the ring towards her before stowing it away so both hands were free. "What place was wrong? What do you want? I have no interest in the family either. I am always surprised by the amount of mortals that welcome an Aphelion. There is no way they did not know that he was Aphelion." His voice was bewildered and a little indignant.
He realized that he hadn't tried to keep his senses open to other Aphelions or even people. It probably wasn't wise that they were sitting ducks for anyone to wake up in the middle of the night. "Uhhh..." He felt embarrassed for filling the silence like a speechless schoolboy. He had been distracted by her killing his target, but now that she mentioned it, he focused on her trying to detect what she was referencing. He furrowed his brow realizing she did feel different. He knew about how Aphelions could sense each other, and he had never been sure if his ability to feel negative things enhanced that common Aphelion ability or if he did not have that ability and only had the one relating to his father.
He cocked his head. If she couldn't gain power through gathering a following was she as much an Aphelion as he was, but she was definitely something different. She was right. He could sense many presences inside of her, and they did not feel positive. He was confused how they got there. How could multiple presences be in one person? What was she? "Is curiosity an option?" he responded. Oh...Nice. She could siphon abilities. Did that include him? Is that what the preying on the nobleman was about? He doubted that was an appropriate question or one she would answer. It seemed like something someone kept to themself. "Do you siphon abilities you want?" What abilities did she want? "Why are you different? Who are you?"
"I think I should be going. There is nothing here for me to do, and I would prefer not to wake the whole house because someone stumbles across this scene." He began to edge back towards the exit.
Kailey was amused and a little disappointed at his formalness in front of his mother, especially after their harrowing survival in the wilderness. She let a slight smile creep over the corners of her mouth as she dipped her head politely accepting the correct way to greet her. At least he had grinned widely when he first saw her. She turned her attention to the many sights and smells that were assaulting her. Which booth did she want to start with? As princess, she felt a duty to visit all of the booths. It would be a very harsh snub if she missed one, however, she knew that eventually she would get tired of shopping, and she had no intention of buying something at every single booth that she encountered. "Judas, I...I'm not certain how to be polite about this. What booths do we stop at? I don't want to snub anyone or cause them to have less business because I did not stop there, however, I don't really want to stop at every single booth. What do you think we should do?"
She turned back glancing at Jude's mother hoping that she would have better input being more grown and learning about appropriate diplomacy in such situations, but she also did not directly ask her. She admired the way Judas was able to walk so confidently, which is why she naturally turned to him to help her make decisions. She was happy to begin perusing. She admired the handiwork, effort, and care that went into each item. She was not used to getting to make her own choices buying things as she generally had servants who dealt with it before she had to even begin to think about it.
Her glee at forcing him to dance with her overcame her as she giggled revealing her scheming intentions. It was always a little rough finding the rhythm, but they soon found the beat and she quickly caught on to how to read his movements to know where to move and when to trust him. As more people joined the dancing there were less dips and lifts as partners were exchanged. She was happy to find that he relaxed more after the dance as he kissed her on the cheek before also giving money to the musician. She couldn't stop from smiling glad that he had enjoyed it as well and her gambit had paid off.
She was glad he was finally beginning to think about their next meal. After the recent exertion she was feeling the emptiness in her stomach. She thought a meat pie with flavorful savory gravy would be just what she needed. "Oh delightful, I'll follow your lead or my nose to those booths," she joked. When the jewlery booth caught his attention, she laughed as she pivoted to follow him, "This is not a food booth Jude! But I did say I would follow your lead, and I do not smell any food strongly enough to be able to track it to its source. I feel like a black bird turning aside for something shiny." She took a moment to present herself more serenly and admire the artifacts she saw laying on the table. She started out amazed at the skill and beauty, but as she looked critically for things that were her style, fit in with her lifestyle, and would actually tempt her to buy something for the most part she was able to disuade herself.
She made her way to the section that was bear themed and zoned in. All of the little pieces reminded her of their time in the woods, but then she saw the little necklace with a bear pendant. It was simple, but her style. She did not like huge pieces that got in her way. Besides, she doubted her father would appreciate her sporting a large bear. She was a princess not a son who hunted. She almost reached out to look at it closer, but she heard Lilith to the side asking if there was anything she could buy for the princess. Kailey smiled sheepishly not wanting to seem so enthralled that someone made an offer like that. She could not tell what motivated the offer. Was it generousity and kindness that one would expect from a gift? Did Lilith want something? Did she think Kailey was unable to do it herself? She dipped her head to Lilith, "I would not want to be an imposition, especially after you were generous enough to take me on this outing. I could buy something myself if I really wanted to. If you truly insist on buying me something I wouldn't mind if you got me my meat pie." She cast another look at the bear necklace before moving on to something else. She started looking at the little birds and flowers which were more normal motiffs for a lady to wear.
When Lilith approached Kai again, Kai smiled at her encouragingly, "Have you seen anything at this booth that has caught your eye? I feel that this vendor was particularly skilled. I hope that his business does well. Some of his little bird figurines were quite amusing. He was able to have them demonstrate such odd little expressions. It was some skill or humor that I do not always witness in a craftsman although perhaps it is a bit risky. What is Judas doing over there? Did he find something he wanted to buy?"
Soon, they began strolling the streets again, but she was finding it harder to get Judas to smile or speak with her ever since the shop where she saw the bear necklace. She wondered if his mother had said something to him when she was out of earshot that had chastened him. She did not immediately inquire into such things hoping that he would tell her soon if there was something she could do. It was getting late, so she did not resist as Lilith insisted they head back to the castle. She tried to include Lilith in some of their conversation as she did not want Jude's mother to be too bored, feel excluded, and never want to do this again. She also did try to be intentionally thoughtful and kind. She was surprise that Lilith went around them to head to the dining hall, but Judas had halted so Kailey remained with him. She noted from Jude's features that he was thinking about something.
"It was a fun day. I really enjoyed it and did not get a chance to thank your mother once more before she went in to dinner," she agreed warmly. She relaxed at first when he mentioned a gift glad that it was not something bad that he had been sitting on the rest of the of the afternoon. She also felt her stomach twist in anticipation as she waited for the reveal of his gift. She put a hand to her chest smiling, "Jude! That is such a pretty necklace. I love it! I will be so appreciative to have something to remember this day and our wild adventures so soon after it occured." She did not try to protest that he should not have spent the money on it. She appreciated it too much to protest in that way. "I will treasure it and take good care of it," she promised. She quickly turned and lift up her hair to make it easier for him to clasp it around her neck. She already started grabbing at the pendant trying to get a closer look at it. She halted that awkward craning when he offered her a mirror. "I do think it's the same kind of bear. I love it! Thank you Jude," she spun around throwing her arms around his neck and planting a kiss on his cheek. "I rather think I could become a ruler of bears with jewlery like this. I'll blend right in!"
~~~~~
The bright sunlight stabbed through the windows angling for Kailey's eyes. She squinted against the harsh light of the setting sun and moved a step so that a bookcase blocked the light. The light painted an orange hue on the stone walls making them appear to be made of red clay instead of grey rock. She hunted through the library collecting books that she wanted to read. She kept pacing the same shelves hoping books that had not stood out before would stand out now. She was intimately familiar with the location of books by this age, yet she still wandered instead of searching with accuracy. She wanted to read books of adventure, and she also realized she had to read ones that would improve her mind. Her dress was flowy and white as she did not believe that convenience of movement would be important tonight, but she enjoyed swishing between the bookcases as she meandered or striding with purpose. She had watched her best friend grow and mature. He was much more capable and skilled now.
With all of the practice for honing his instincts every now and then she liked to see if she was still able to sneak up on him. She was simply waiting for him to become engrossed in a book before she pounced. If she stood "face to face" with him she had to gaze upward as he was now about a foot taller than her. With height such as his, it was hard for his fellow peers to not want to consider him a leader. However, even with all of his hard work, her father undermined him and it was hard to tell if Judas' peers would mock him or be intimidated.
Kailey reached to her neck checking that the bear pendant on her silver chain was not spun around to her back and was positioned correctly at the front. Once she was satisfied, she followed the sound of Judas' grumbling voice. Surprising him would have to wait for another day. "Or perhaps you could get an expert to look for it. I have gotten pretty good. Some of the lower librarian positions have a high turnover, so I am more familiar with the system than they are and I can often find books faster. I've raced them to demonstrate my abilities," she winked mischievously. "But you can always try your method and see if looking for something else works. I will be amused to watch you wander aimlessly between the shelves." She looked at the area he was looking. "Jude, dude, I understand why you would look here, but actually but actually it's organized over there because of this topic," she pointed indicating the relevant pieces as she listed them. "Ah here it is," she smiled self-satisfied while handing it to him.
A harsh noise of footsteps not trying to disguise themselves were marching down the hallway. She would guess at least ten men were heading this way. She remained by Judas' side trying to crane over bookshelves to see who the interlopers were. She started to instinctively reach back out for Jude's hand feeling the instinct to flee. However, she knew she had not done anything to warrant that large of a group, and she knew whoever was coming would not look well upon Jude fleeing. Her father entered the library with two guards in front of him. Jude's parents were separated by four guards between them and the king and another four were behind the captive pair. The king waved his hand and the two guards in front of him worked to separate Kailey and Jude. Kai felt tears beginning to well up in her eyes. "What is happening?" She looked desperately to Jude for an explanation. If there was treason, and he was being arrested, it meant he knew what had happened. She firmly refused to believe that Jude would do anything to endanger her, so it must have been Gabriel who had done it. "They are losing their position in court," her father's eyes narrowed as he supervised the proceedings. "They are being taken somewhere where they can prove their loyalty."
"Have they done something?" she looked pleadingly at her father wondering if she could get mercy for Jude. "Jude, do you know why this is happening?" she tried to speak softly so as to not loudly display her doubt, but why would her father do it now. "The Creeks will make excellent guards. I have seen Judas' increasing skill, and his father has tolerable organization abilities. He will crack them into shape." Kai's brow furrowed as she observed the Creek family surrounded by the guards that they would soon have to organize. "Aren't you undermining...?" her father interrupted her. "Gabriel will figure it out. He always does. You will not be spending any more time with this one." He pointed at Judas. "Okay, let's go," he announced to the guards and they started to depart the library, leaving Kailey in shock. Once she was alone, she raced to her room to cry in private.
She turned back glancing at Jude's mother hoping that she would have better input being more grown and learning about appropriate diplomacy in such situations, but she also did not directly ask her. She admired the way Judas was able to walk so confidently, which is why she naturally turned to him to help her make decisions. She was happy to begin perusing. She admired the handiwork, effort, and care that went into each item. She was not used to getting to make her own choices buying things as she generally had servants who dealt with it before she had to even begin to think about it.
Her glee at forcing him to dance with her overcame her as she giggled revealing her scheming intentions. It was always a little rough finding the rhythm, but they soon found the beat and she quickly caught on to how to read his movements to know where to move and when to trust him. As more people joined the dancing there were less dips and lifts as partners were exchanged. She was happy to find that he relaxed more after the dance as he kissed her on the cheek before also giving money to the musician. She couldn't stop from smiling glad that he had enjoyed it as well and her gambit had paid off.
She was glad he was finally beginning to think about their next meal. After the recent exertion she was feeling the emptiness in her stomach. She thought a meat pie with flavorful savory gravy would be just what she needed. "Oh delightful, I'll follow your lead or my nose to those booths," she joked. When the jewlery booth caught his attention, she laughed as she pivoted to follow him, "This is not a food booth Jude! But I did say I would follow your lead, and I do not smell any food strongly enough to be able to track it to its source. I feel like a black bird turning aside for something shiny." She took a moment to present herself more serenly and admire the artifacts she saw laying on the table. She started out amazed at the skill and beauty, but as she looked critically for things that were her style, fit in with her lifestyle, and would actually tempt her to buy something for the most part she was able to disuade herself.
She made her way to the section that was bear themed and zoned in. All of the little pieces reminded her of their time in the woods, but then she saw the little necklace with a bear pendant. It was simple, but her style. She did not like huge pieces that got in her way. Besides, she doubted her father would appreciate her sporting a large bear. She was a princess not a son who hunted. She almost reached out to look at it closer, but she heard Lilith to the side asking if there was anything she could buy for the princess. Kailey smiled sheepishly not wanting to seem so enthralled that someone made an offer like that. She could not tell what motivated the offer. Was it generousity and kindness that one would expect from a gift? Did Lilith want something? Did she think Kailey was unable to do it herself? She dipped her head to Lilith, "I would not want to be an imposition, especially after you were generous enough to take me on this outing. I could buy something myself if I really wanted to. If you truly insist on buying me something I wouldn't mind if you got me my meat pie." She cast another look at the bear necklace before moving on to something else. She started looking at the little birds and flowers which were more normal motiffs for a lady to wear.
When Lilith approached Kai again, Kai smiled at her encouragingly, "Have you seen anything at this booth that has caught your eye? I feel that this vendor was particularly skilled. I hope that his business does well. Some of his little bird figurines were quite amusing. He was able to have them demonstrate such odd little expressions. It was some skill or humor that I do not always witness in a craftsman although perhaps it is a bit risky. What is Judas doing over there? Did he find something he wanted to buy?"
Soon, they began strolling the streets again, but she was finding it harder to get Judas to smile or speak with her ever since the shop where she saw the bear necklace. She wondered if his mother had said something to him when she was out of earshot that had chastened him. She did not immediately inquire into such things hoping that he would tell her soon if there was something she could do. It was getting late, so she did not resist as Lilith insisted they head back to the castle. She tried to include Lilith in some of their conversation as she did not want Jude's mother to be too bored, feel excluded, and never want to do this again. She also did try to be intentionally thoughtful and kind. She was surprise that Lilith went around them to head to the dining hall, but Judas had halted so Kailey remained with him. She noted from Jude's features that he was thinking about something.
"It was a fun day. I really enjoyed it and did not get a chance to thank your mother once more before she went in to dinner," she agreed warmly. She relaxed at first when he mentioned a gift glad that it was not something bad that he had been sitting on the rest of the of the afternoon. She also felt her stomach twist in anticipation as she waited for the reveal of his gift. She put a hand to her chest smiling, "Jude! That is such a pretty necklace. I love it! I will be so appreciative to have something to remember this day and our wild adventures so soon after it occured." She did not try to protest that he should not have spent the money on it. She appreciated it too much to protest in that way. "I will treasure it and take good care of it," she promised. She quickly turned and lift up her hair to make it easier for him to clasp it around her neck. She already started grabbing at the pendant trying to get a closer look at it. She halted that awkward craning when he offered her a mirror. "I do think it's the same kind of bear. I love it! Thank you Jude," she spun around throwing her arms around his neck and planting a kiss on his cheek. "I rather think I could become a ruler of bears with jewlery like this. I'll blend right in!"
~~~~~
The bright sunlight stabbed through the windows angling for Kailey's eyes. She squinted against the harsh light of the setting sun and moved a step so that a bookcase blocked the light. The light painted an orange hue on the stone walls making them appear to be made of red clay instead of grey rock. She hunted through the library collecting books that she wanted to read. She kept pacing the same shelves hoping books that had not stood out before would stand out now. She was intimately familiar with the location of books by this age, yet she still wandered instead of searching with accuracy. She wanted to read books of adventure, and she also realized she had to read ones that would improve her mind. Her dress was flowy and white as she did not believe that convenience of movement would be important tonight, but she enjoyed swishing between the bookcases as she meandered or striding with purpose. She had watched her best friend grow and mature. He was much more capable and skilled now.
With all of the practice for honing his instincts every now and then she liked to see if she was still able to sneak up on him. She was simply waiting for him to become engrossed in a book before she pounced. If she stood "face to face" with him she had to gaze upward as he was now about a foot taller than her. With height such as his, it was hard for his fellow peers to not want to consider him a leader. However, even with all of his hard work, her father undermined him and it was hard to tell if Judas' peers would mock him or be intimidated.
Kailey reached to her neck checking that the bear pendant on her silver chain was not spun around to her back and was positioned correctly at the front. Once she was satisfied, she followed the sound of Judas' grumbling voice. Surprising him would have to wait for another day. "Or perhaps you could get an expert to look for it. I have gotten pretty good. Some of the lower librarian positions have a high turnover, so I am more familiar with the system than they are and I can often find books faster. I've raced them to demonstrate my abilities," she winked mischievously. "But you can always try your method and see if looking for something else works. I will be amused to watch you wander aimlessly between the shelves." She looked at the area he was looking. "Jude, dude, I understand why you would look here, but actually but actually it's organized over there because of this topic," she pointed indicating the relevant pieces as she listed them. "Ah here it is," she smiled self-satisfied while handing it to him.
A harsh noise of footsteps not trying to disguise themselves were marching down the hallway. She would guess at least ten men were heading this way. She remained by Judas' side trying to crane over bookshelves to see who the interlopers were. She started to instinctively reach back out for Jude's hand feeling the instinct to flee. However, she knew she had not done anything to warrant that large of a group, and she knew whoever was coming would not look well upon Jude fleeing. Her father entered the library with two guards in front of him. Jude's parents were separated by four guards between them and the king and another four were behind the captive pair. The king waved his hand and the two guards in front of him worked to separate Kailey and Jude. Kai felt tears beginning to well up in her eyes. "What is happening?" She looked desperately to Jude for an explanation. If there was treason, and he was being arrested, it meant he knew what had happened. She firmly refused to believe that Jude would do anything to endanger her, so it must have been Gabriel who had done it. "They are losing their position in court," her father's eyes narrowed as he supervised the proceedings. "They are being taken somewhere where they can prove their loyalty."
"Have they done something?" she looked pleadingly at her father wondering if she could get mercy for Jude. "Jude, do you know why this is happening?" she tried to speak softly so as to not loudly display her doubt, but why would her father do it now. "The Creeks will make excellent guards. I have seen Judas' increasing skill, and his father has tolerable organization abilities. He will crack them into shape." Kai's brow furrowed as she observed the Creek family surrounded by the guards that they would soon have to organize. "Aren't you undermining...?" her father interrupted her. "Gabriel will figure it out. He always does. You will not be spending any more time with this one." He pointed at Judas. "Okay, let's go," he announced to the guards and they started to depart the library, leaving Kailey in shock. Once she was alone, she raced to her room to cry in private.
Ariella steadfastly walked forward even though the prisoners' lewd words gave away her presence. The long stone hallway had an odd echoing sound, but it made it hard to understand their words even though the words were loud. She braced herself to speak to the assassin and continued to stand tall even though it occurred to her that servant girls would have been more frightened. She had last seen the assassin surrounded by guards being brought to he prison. She had observed from a very far distance at William's discretion. It had been hard to see him amidst the armor and weapons. As she looked at him now she noted his raggedy clothing, barely presentable for being in her presence. Her mind searched back trying to remember if his clothing had been this bad when they first captured him. While she imagined that it would be depressing, the food was bad, and the company nonexistent in the dungeons, the assassin was not allowed enough physical freedom to get his clothes that tattered. She had underestimated how rough life could be in the dungeons.
She hesitantly extended the tray unsure if he would take it. Her eyes studied him while he wolfed down the food. As he moved the fresher food around it stirred up the delicious fragrance. She wasn't sure if it was as high quality as her normal food, but it would certainly fill an empty stomach like her own. She noted that even if it might be basically seasoned it was cooked well.
She eventually started to try to get down to business. She was not sure the best way to keep his attention and get his respect, so she tried to be upfront and honest. For someone trained in diplomatic negotiations she fumbled her way through not going through the conversation in a logical order highlighting to herself and Seth that she had not thought this through. If she had waited, she may never have taken action. He ignored answering if he knew who she was. She almost repeated herself wondering if he hadn't heard, he didn't want to answer from ignorance or he was playing a mind game with her, but decided to wait before she began blurting out more words. It was better to be the one with more information in negotiation. She had already given him plenty causing her to feel stupid and small in his eyes. She almost flinched as the fragile utensils and dishes clattered to the floor.
Her head cocked as she waited to hear what he wanted. Last minute he seemed to change his answer cutting off what was spilling out of his mouth. Her eyes narrowed very slightly, but she didn't push. It felt like she had fallen off of a cliff onto a ledge and below her she assumed were jagged rocks, but the mist was covering the bottom. She didn't know exactly what would happen if she mistepped, but it was frightening and dangerous. She had fallen onto a ledge beside a coiled snake who had no use for her other than she had limbs available so that he could get a ride to freedom. The snake might not have his limbs free, but he certainly had a poisonous venom. He could be fast and she didn't know how to counteract him. Her mind was still clouded with grief and pain. She felt consistent throbbing in her temples even though it had been a few hours since she had cried. Could she even admit to herself that she was thinking rationally? If she took more time to think about working with him would he still be willing to work with her? A shaky feeling spread through her body, but she decided that she had to try. She would start the precarious climb back to the top. What else was she going to do with her miserable life?
"Do you have some semblance of a plan? I'm not freeing you for you to get both of us in trouble when you get caught again," she blustered, trying to disguise her unpreparedness and lack of planning. She searched her mind trying to remember where the guards kept the keys. She could sneak off and get it instead of experimenting with her hair pins trying to get the lock unlocked. She cringed at the vision of not being able to get his cuffs unlocked and admitting that she wasn't a hundred percent sure where the keys would be. Perhaps she wouldn't explain where she was going. She would come right back…hopefully. If she didn't get caught, distracted, or put to work elsewhere. Looking at him, she was certain he would scoff at her or derride her for overlooking such a basic part of escape. "Besides, I thought you would have an idea for how to escape. I can't go walking up to guards to get keys to high profile prisoner." She raised her brow challengingly. If she couldn't defend she would try to distract with an offense.
She smirked when he finally answered her. He wasn't as stupid or oblivious as she had expected him to pretend. Of course he knew she was the Empress. He would have been stupid to be a criminal in her country and not know who the rulers were. While the words he said about loyalty were what she had wanted from him, she realized now as those smooth words slipped out of his mouth that if he had been harsher and more violent she would have believed him more. He was saying what he thought she wanted to hear much like everyone else in her life who had betrayed her. She would have had more of a tendency to believe him if he had told her that he would be loyal to her until something better came along or that he was planning to dispose of her as soon as her usefulness had passed.
She nodded once acknowledging that he was right about the rebellion. Interesting that he thought she wanted revenge instead of power. "You are very confident," she commented on the promise he made. "You think that you are skilled enough to keep me alive?" Dumb question. He wouldn't answer it again. William hadn't managed to protect her and she hadn't managed to protect him.
She considered letting him try to use her hair pins while she went searching for the keys, but she didn't want him wandering around on his own wrecking havoc if he managed to get them to work. She sighed, "I didn't get the keys." She tried to think up a logical reason why to defend herself. "I wasn't sure if we would come to an agreement and I didn't want anyone to notice that they were missing. I'll be back." She trudged back the way she came trying to remember the way to the guardroom where she believed the keys probably were. Before she went in, she listened hard for any men in there. Once she went in there was very little excuse for why she was there. She found herself frozen listening to every little echoing sound. As far as she could tell there was no one inside. She needed to make her move. Ice coursed through her veins and paralyzed her to the spot. Her thoughts were circular and frantic. She couldn't abandon the assassin or admit defeat without losing any respect he may have for her, and she wouldn't have the assassin's help if she couldn't get him out. On the other hand, she was terrified of discovery.
Would she feel safer with a weapon in her hand? No. She wouldn't be able to dispose of any bodies, and they would surely recognize her the next time they saw her. She would be certain to get caught. It was better that she didn't have that option. She doubted they would try to kill a woman. However, she knew her freedom would become more restricted.
She forced her feet to move forward and poked her head around the corner. Somebody was leaving through another door. She backed away a little waiting to see if he would come back. She peeped around the corner after a few minutes had passed before she became paralyzed again. She crept forward and started to look for the keys. She was surprised to find them on a ring hanging by someone's desk. Looking down at the desk she noticed some of the paperwork for prisoners. Thomas Moore's paperwork was on top and Lionel Hadley was skewed slightly beneath. Thomas had stolen a goat, and Duke Lionel had tried tax evasion. She gently unhooked the keys and prepared to make her exit. She was a little disgusted how easy it was to steal the keys. Why were they kept in plain sight? Security had gotten lax and sloppy. As she was about to leave she heard footsteps coming from her exit. She couldn't hide behind the desk because she assumed that is where he would go. She found a nook by a bookshelf and squatted down and hoped he wouldn't look around or pay attention.
The guard sat down and flipped through some paperwork. Cold swept Ariella's body and sweat began to bead and drip down her face and back. She tried to look his direction without moving any muscles except her neck and eyes. Her legs cramped up after she guessed five minutes had passed. She started to relax as he continued to not notice her, but she tried to remind herself to not let her guard down so far as to make noises or wiggle. At least her muscles relaxed from the tension of worrying about springing into action. Finally, the guard left again. Ariella readjusted herself and considered making sure she was in a more comfortable position. She also debated whether she needed to dash out regardless of the consequences or wait and make sure he wasn't coming right back.
She managed to wait a few minutes before creeping to the entrance and peering both ways before she darted back into the corridor to Seth's dungeon and walked quicker than she normally would back to his cell. She had the keys hidden in a pocket in her dress. She got more attention her second time back as they hadn't expected her to return. She fumbled with the keys in her pocket and finally jerked them out. They clanked a few times as she shoved them into the lock of the cell. After furiously jiggling with the key it clicked open. She backed away so he could come out. "You can try the keys in the lock, but I don't think it will fit. I also need to get these back. I'm not sure where to take you, but we need to get you out of here. Maybe you can hide out as a guard. Ready to go?"
She hesitantly extended the tray unsure if he would take it. Her eyes studied him while he wolfed down the food. As he moved the fresher food around it stirred up the delicious fragrance. She wasn't sure if it was as high quality as her normal food, but it would certainly fill an empty stomach like her own. She noted that even if it might be basically seasoned it was cooked well.
She eventually started to try to get down to business. She was not sure the best way to keep his attention and get his respect, so she tried to be upfront and honest. For someone trained in diplomatic negotiations she fumbled her way through not going through the conversation in a logical order highlighting to herself and Seth that she had not thought this through. If she had waited, she may never have taken action. He ignored answering if he knew who she was. She almost repeated herself wondering if he hadn't heard, he didn't want to answer from ignorance or he was playing a mind game with her, but decided to wait before she began blurting out more words. It was better to be the one with more information in negotiation. She had already given him plenty causing her to feel stupid and small in his eyes. She almost flinched as the fragile utensils and dishes clattered to the floor.
Her head cocked as she waited to hear what he wanted. Last minute he seemed to change his answer cutting off what was spilling out of his mouth. Her eyes narrowed very slightly, but she didn't push. It felt like she had fallen off of a cliff onto a ledge and below her she assumed were jagged rocks, but the mist was covering the bottom. She didn't know exactly what would happen if she mistepped, but it was frightening and dangerous. She had fallen onto a ledge beside a coiled snake who had no use for her other than she had limbs available so that he could get a ride to freedom. The snake might not have his limbs free, but he certainly had a poisonous venom. He could be fast and she didn't know how to counteract him. Her mind was still clouded with grief and pain. She felt consistent throbbing in her temples even though it had been a few hours since she had cried. Could she even admit to herself that she was thinking rationally? If she took more time to think about working with him would he still be willing to work with her? A shaky feeling spread through her body, but she decided that she had to try. She would start the precarious climb back to the top. What else was she going to do with her miserable life?
"Do you have some semblance of a plan? I'm not freeing you for you to get both of us in trouble when you get caught again," she blustered, trying to disguise her unpreparedness and lack of planning. She searched her mind trying to remember where the guards kept the keys. She could sneak off and get it instead of experimenting with her hair pins trying to get the lock unlocked. She cringed at the vision of not being able to get his cuffs unlocked and admitting that she wasn't a hundred percent sure where the keys would be. Perhaps she wouldn't explain where she was going. She would come right back…hopefully. If she didn't get caught, distracted, or put to work elsewhere. Looking at him, she was certain he would scoff at her or derride her for overlooking such a basic part of escape. "Besides, I thought you would have an idea for how to escape. I can't go walking up to guards to get keys to high profile prisoner." She raised her brow challengingly. If she couldn't defend she would try to distract with an offense.
She smirked when he finally answered her. He wasn't as stupid or oblivious as she had expected him to pretend. Of course he knew she was the Empress. He would have been stupid to be a criminal in her country and not know who the rulers were. While the words he said about loyalty were what she had wanted from him, she realized now as those smooth words slipped out of his mouth that if he had been harsher and more violent she would have believed him more. He was saying what he thought she wanted to hear much like everyone else in her life who had betrayed her. She would have had more of a tendency to believe him if he had told her that he would be loyal to her until something better came along or that he was planning to dispose of her as soon as her usefulness had passed.
She nodded once acknowledging that he was right about the rebellion. Interesting that he thought she wanted revenge instead of power. "You are very confident," she commented on the promise he made. "You think that you are skilled enough to keep me alive?" Dumb question. He wouldn't answer it again. William hadn't managed to protect her and she hadn't managed to protect him.
She considered letting him try to use her hair pins while she went searching for the keys, but she didn't want him wandering around on his own wrecking havoc if he managed to get them to work. She sighed, "I didn't get the keys." She tried to think up a logical reason why to defend herself. "I wasn't sure if we would come to an agreement and I didn't want anyone to notice that they were missing. I'll be back." She trudged back the way she came trying to remember the way to the guardroom where she believed the keys probably were. Before she went in, she listened hard for any men in there. Once she went in there was very little excuse for why she was there. She found herself frozen listening to every little echoing sound. As far as she could tell there was no one inside. She needed to make her move. Ice coursed through her veins and paralyzed her to the spot. Her thoughts were circular and frantic. She couldn't abandon the assassin or admit defeat without losing any respect he may have for her, and she wouldn't have the assassin's help if she couldn't get him out. On the other hand, she was terrified of discovery.
Would she feel safer with a weapon in her hand? No. She wouldn't be able to dispose of any bodies, and they would surely recognize her the next time they saw her. She would be certain to get caught. It was better that she didn't have that option. She doubted they would try to kill a woman. However, she knew her freedom would become more restricted.
She forced her feet to move forward and poked her head around the corner. Somebody was leaving through another door. She backed away a little waiting to see if he would come back. She peeped around the corner after a few minutes had passed before she became paralyzed again. She crept forward and started to look for the keys. She was surprised to find them on a ring hanging by someone's desk. Looking down at the desk she noticed some of the paperwork for prisoners. Thomas Moore's paperwork was on top and Lionel Hadley was skewed slightly beneath. Thomas had stolen a goat, and Duke Lionel had tried tax evasion. She gently unhooked the keys and prepared to make her exit. She was a little disgusted how easy it was to steal the keys. Why were they kept in plain sight? Security had gotten lax and sloppy. As she was about to leave she heard footsteps coming from her exit. She couldn't hide behind the desk because she assumed that is where he would go. She found a nook by a bookshelf and squatted down and hoped he wouldn't look around or pay attention.
The guard sat down and flipped through some paperwork. Cold swept Ariella's body and sweat began to bead and drip down her face and back. She tried to look his direction without moving any muscles except her neck and eyes. Her legs cramped up after she guessed five minutes had passed. She started to relax as he continued to not notice her, but she tried to remind herself to not let her guard down so far as to make noises or wiggle. At least her muscles relaxed from the tension of worrying about springing into action. Finally, the guard left again. Ariella readjusted herself and considered making sure she was in a more comfortable position. She also debated whether she needed to dash out regardless of the consequences or wait and make sure he wasn't coming right back.
She managed to wait a few minutes before creeping to the entrance and peering both ways before she darted back into the corridor to Seth's dungeon and walked quicker than she normally would back to his cell. She had the keys hidden in a pocket in her dress. She got more attention her second time back as they hadn't expected her to return. She fumbled with the keys in her pocket and finally jerked them out. They clanked a few times as she shoved them into the lock of the cell. After furiously jiggling with the key it clicked open. She backed away so he could come out. "You can try the keys in the lock, but I don't think it will fit. I also need to get these back. I'm not sure where to take you, but we need to get you out of here. Maybe you can hide out as a guard. Ready to go?"
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