Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Exotic Solos =&gt; Topic started by: MadPanda on 22-11-2014, 19:09:51</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>22-11-2014, 19:09:51</strong>
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				Simon glared up at the small Human keep upon its riverside cliff and tried not to hate the place outright, since it was hardly fair to geography to ascribe foul intention to it alone.&nbsp; Beside him, his escort remained mute, stalwart, and alert for any sign that he might balk...no matter how often he had already promised not to do so, his word was not enough.&nbsp; That rankled, aye, as much as the rest of this miserable, misbegotten business did!&nbsp; Fidgeting in his finery, he forced himself not to turn and look upon the architect of his misfortune and discomfort.<br><br>This studied avoidance did not save him from a hearty, fellow-well-met shoulder clap from his sire, who chortled as Howlett Keep came into view above the morning mist.&nbsp; The older Dragon had only warned him of this matter two evenings hence, and then given no opportunity for further discussion as they departed under curious secrecy with only a modest escort.&nbsp; Father said something about being subtle, and a great deal about not wanting to alarm the rest of the Clan, and otherwise keeping Simon in the dark.<br><br>"Well, there it is, boy.&nbsp; The Owl's Nest, current home of your new in-laws.&nbsp; Not too shabby, for Human work."<br><br>Simon succumbed to temptation and shot the older man a glare.<br><br>"Yes.&nbsp; I shall miss it when I've gone again."<br><br>"Simon," his elder returned glare for glare, "I know you do not care for this, but it is necessary.&nbsp; They've a daughter in need of a husband, and you are of age."<br><br>"I've got brothers."<br><br>"And sisters, aye, but it's to <em>you</em> that this duty falls and not to them."&nbsp; Lord Petr's voice held no room for argument, but it softened again after a moment's pause.&nbsp; "Look, lad, I know you don't like this.&nbsp; I felt the same way when I married.&nbsp; It isn't as though this is the end of your world."<br><br>Simon muttered something angry, encapsulating his annoyance at being sold to livestock...only to come up short when Petr cuffed his shoulder again.<br><br>"None of that, boy!&nbsp; I'll remind you that your mother was a Human.&nbsp; Are you any less a Dragon for it?"<br><br>"Mikal and Timofee say..."<br><br>"Your half-brothers are half-wits," the older said firmly.&nbsp; "And while your mother was a mistake and a half, I have never regretted siring you."<br><br>The boat put in at the riverside barbican before Simon could think of a decent reply to that, was still wrestling with the elder Dragon's words even as he went through the formal gestures of greeting to the officer in charge of the tiny garrison, following his father numbly as they mounted the long, crenelated walkway up to the gatehouse high above.&nbsp; His escort flanked him, following Lord Petr's mighty strides.<br><br>"This matter comes as a surprise to your bride as well, so be gentle to her.&nbsp; She's like to be no happier than you are," the older man said as they rounded the first switchback.&nbsp; "Probably less happy if she's been tutored by their priests on the sins of congress with the likes of us."<br><br>+ + +<br><br>Meanwhile, up in the keep, Lord Howlett and his family were interrupted in their breakfasting by a page rushing in from the wall with the news that there were a pair of finely dressed gentleman coming up from riverside...
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				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>26-11-2014, 09:35:29</strong>
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				The previous day, was the first day that she had even heard about her arranged marriage.&nbsp; The worst part was, she didn't even know who he was.&nbsp; Simon was the only name she received, not his surname.&nbsp; She didn't know what family he belonged to, what he looked like, what kind of personality he looked like, nothing but the name Simon and there were plenty of those around.<br><br>The images were still reeling in her mind at what had happened.&nbsp; Her father had called her into his study, that was the first sign she knew something was up.&nbsp; He never let her in his personal study unless it was something important.&nbsp; The second sign was that her mother was there as well.<br><br>"Sit down dear," her mother said softly, walking to her and giving her a small hug.<br><br>Melody hugged her back, confused at what was going on, before sitting in front of her fathers desk.&nbsp; "What's going on?" she asked.&nbsp; She saw the worried look in her mother's eyes, but looked back at her father as he started to speak.<br><br>"I'm an old man, sick man," her father started with a deep sigh, but that didn't help her confusion any.&nbsp; The look in his eyes were one of regret, sorrow, pride, and love.&nbsp; "You are the oldest out of all of our children, whom are all girls."<br><br>"Father, what's going on?&nbsp; What are you talking about?"&nbsp; Melody asked him, confusion speaking volumes in her words.<br><br>A sigh came from her father's lungs, a deep one causing him to cough a bit, and he looked at her for a few moments with that look again.&nbsp; This time he seemed to have trouble finding the words.&nbsp; Her mother moved to sit down next to her and grabbed her hand.&nbsp; "I'm talking about marriage Mel," he said, calling her by that nickname he had given her.<br><br>Melody's eyes widened at that, he couldn't be...no, he wasn't referring to her was he?&nbsp; "What do you mean marriage!" she exclaimed.&nbsp; This couldn't be happening.<br><br>"I mean that you are going to have to marry, and...*cough* soon," he tried clearing his throat, coughing a few more times.<br><br>As soon as he said those words, dread filled her.&nbsp; No, he couldn't mean this.&nbsp; She couldn't marry anyone.&nbsp; Not anyone but Daniel, her true love.&nbsp; She wouldn't marry anyone but him.&nbsp; She stood up violently, her mother begging her to calm down as she shouted out, "NO, I can't....I won't!"<br><br>She expected both of her parents to be mad at her, to yell back.&nbsp; Instead, her mother looked sad and looked away.&nbsp; Her father coughed some more before standing up, walking over to the window to look out.&nbsp; It was a moment before he spoke, each second was a struggle not to run away and be done with this.&nbsp; "We've kept you too sheltered for too long," her father said sorrowful.<br><br>"We hoped to have a son, so that the pressures wouldn't be put on you my dear," her mother spoke up, a soft smile on her face.<br><br>Her father looked at her, a sad look on his face.&nbsp; "We can't shelter you any more.&nbsp; You have to learn the ways of the world.&nbsp; We tried keeping you innocent but...we can't any longer.&nbsp; You have to marry, there will be no arguments about it."&nbsp; It was said calmly, clearly a struggle to keep patience with her.<br><br>"What if I don't," Melody spoke, tears running down her face from her beautiful green eyes that contrasted nicely with her strawberry blond hair and fair skin.<br><br>"Then," her father said.&nbsp; He hesitated a bit, clearly not wanting to say this but found he had no choice.&nbsp; "If I die, and you aren't married, you'll lose this place.&nbsp; You, your mother, your sisters, will all be homeless.&nbsp; You must marry someone who will know how to run this place."<br><br>Melody clenched her hands into fists, tears running down her face still.&nbsp; "Who and when?" she asked, struggling to get the words out.&nbsp; She had no choice.&nbsp; She loved her family to much to do that to them.<br><br>"Simon...." he started to say more, but didn't.&nbsp; He thought that if she found out he was a dragon she would probably change her mind from fear.&nbsp; "Within the week."<br><br>At that, she burst from the room, to her own bedchambers.&nbsp; Throwing herself on the bed, she cried for the loss of her love.&nbsp; What would he do when he found out?&nbsp; Would he hate her?&nbsp; Would he understand?&nbsp; She hoped it was the latter because then it meant he truly did love her.&nbsp; She just didn't know how to tell him.&nbsp; She wished it was he she could marry but alas...he was but just a servant, a stable boy.&nbsp; She was to meet him tonight, they had already made plans to run away together.&nbsp; She couldn't, not now, not after finding out what would happen to her family.<br><br>Later that night, after being prepared for bed, she ordered her maids to leave her for the night.&nbsp; Once she knew all was silent and quiet, she donned a white robe, and tied it closed around her.&nbsp; She moved quietly through the halls and down the stairs towards the back, where she would be able to easily get to the stable.&nbsp; Unfortunately, she was spotted by some guards.&nbsp; "Miss, what are you doing up so late?" he asked with concern.<br><br>It was a time of peace thankfully, so she used it to her advantage and gave him a soft smile.&nbsp; "I couldn't sleep," she said.&nbsp; "I thought that maybe visiting Moon Beam would help calm me down enough to sleep.&nbsp; I promise I won't stay out that long."<br><br>"Would you like some company?" he asked, concerned.<br><br>"No need," she said.&nbsp; "What could happen on a beautiful night like this?"<br><br>With that, he let her go, but watched her as she moved towards the stables and out of sight.&nbsp; Once she was sure she wasn't being watched anymore, safe inside the stables, she called out.&nbsp; "Daniel, are you here?"<br><br>"I'm here," he said stepping out of the shadows.&nbsp; "I almost thought you weren't going to come....what's wrong?" he said noticing the sad look on her face.&nbsp; "Why aren't you packed?&nbsp; Has something happened?" He sounded a bit worried now.<br><br>"I...." she looked away, tears in her eyes.&nbsp; "I can't....I'm getting married Daniel, I'm sorry."<br><br>Not hearing him saying anything, she risked a glance at him and saw the pure rage in his eyes.<br><br>"Married!" he whispered in a harsh voice towards her, trying not to alert the guards towards anything wrong.&nbsp; "What do you mean married?!"<br><br>"I have too Daniel," she pleaded with him, begging for him to understand.&nbsp; "If I don't....we could lose the estate, everything.&nbsp; My three younger sisters, what are they going to do without a home?&nbsp; My mother?"<br><br>"To hell with them," he said bitterly.&nbsp; "I thought you loved me?&nbsp; Why can't one of them marry instead?&nbsp; Bridgette is old enough!"<br><br>She looked away from him, upset and feeling more alone than before.&nbsp; She was hoping if anything he would tell her that he still loved her, that he understood.&nbsp; "I'm the heir...I have to...it's my responsibility and they're my family Daniel.&nbsp; I can't just abandoned them!"&nbsp; Her words started out meek but they grew in volume slightly.<br><br>"You were ready to yesterday dammit, what changed?!" His voice was getting louder, any louder and they would be alerting the guards.<br><br>Tears were now streaming down her face as she looked at him.&nbsp; "I wasn't abandoning them.&nbsp; I thought they were going to still be taken care of without me.&nbsp; I was going to just be with you!&nbsp; Why can't you understand?" she pleaded with him.&nbsp; "I...I thought you loved me!"<br><br>Those were the words she shouldn't have said.&nbsp; They caused something in him she had never seen before.&nbsp; He was mad before, but now it was scary, terrifying even.&nbsp; The instant she finished saying those words, his hand flew up and it looked like he was going to hit her.&nbsp; Her eyes widened in fear, even as it closed into a fist and he lowered it a bit.&nbsp; In that same moment, he screamed a bit and then turned to punch the wall behind him.<br><br>She turned to run from the barn just as guards came to investigate the noise, preventing her from leaving.&nbsp; Tears were still streaming down her face and they saw it.&nbsp; "What happened?&nbsp; Are you alright?" they asked, looking her over to make sure she wasn't hurt.&nbsp; She looked back at him, thinking about what he was just about to do.&nbsp; It terrified her, but...she couldn't turn him in for that.&nbsp; Maybe he would leave and try to forget about her if she just let him go.<br><br>"It's fine," she said.&nbsp; "Everything that's happened just got to me and he stubbed his toe is all."<br><br>They could tell she was lying, but didn't push her since they didn't want to upset her further.&nbsp; They just took her story and she ran off, away from there, back to her room.&nbsp; Throwing herself on the bed, she cried her eyes out until she couldn't cry any more.&nbsp; He was going to...actually hit her?&nbsp; Never had she seen him act that way before.&nbsp; Sure, she'd seen him get mad, but he was never too angry with her.&nbsp; Then it got her thinking of her soon to be husband.&nbsp; Would he be worse?&nbsp; Would he actually hit her, over anything?&nbsp; Or...would he be more understanding?&nbsp; More kind and gentle?&nbsp; The thoughts were eating away at her and she couldn't think straight.&nbsp; Eventually her thoughts and crying wore her out to the point of her passing out from exhaustion.<br><br>The maids woke her up, but it wasn't easy.&nbsp; She didn't sleep until very late last night, and only got a couple hours worth of sleep.&nbsp; "M'lady," a blond maid, Christine, spoke while shaking her awake.&nbsp; "You need to wake up and get ready for the day."&nbsp; A curtain was pulled back, allowing light in to burn her eyes from behind her eyelids.&nbsp; Her eyes slowly opened as she groaned, stretching.&nbsp; She looked awful.&nbsp; Her eyes were red from crying, they're were bags under her eyes from lack of sleep.<br><br>"Goodness child," said a brunette, Maddie, who was preparing her bath.&nbsp; "Did you sleep at all?"<br><br>A shake of the head and Christine and Maddie both ushered her out of bed.&nbsp; "Can't have any of that now though," Maddie said.&nbsp; "We need to get you ready for the day.&nbsp; Your future husband is arriving later today."<br><br>"T...Today?!" she asked, shocked.&nbsp; Her father really did mean soon.&nbsp; This infuriated her immensely and terrified her at the same time.&nbsp; She knew nothing about the man she was to marry, who she was meeting today, and only found out about yesterday.&nbsp; When was this deal made?&nbsp; Tears started forming at her eyes again.<br><br>"Can't have none of that now," Maddie said, wiping away her tears.&nbsp; They quickly worked to undress her, so they could clean her up and make her presentable for her future husband.&nbsp; Maddie was older, married herself.&nbsp; Even had a daughter she took care of.&nbsp; Christine was a year younger than Melody, as old as her sister Bridgette, but older by a few months.<br><br>She was silent the rest of the time, contemplating, thinking, holding back tears of frustration, anger, and sadness.&nbsp; She sat there as they bathed her, talking to her cheerfully but she didn't talk back or if she did it was quick short answers or replies.&nbsp; They dressed her in one of her best gowns, a deep blue one with silver embroidery.&nbsp; Getting the corset on was a pain though, as it always was, but everything else was a breeze.&nbsp; They fixed her hair, put on a dab of make up to hid her bags, and then sent her off to breakfast with her parents.&nbsp; She wouldn't be meeting her future husband until after noon.<br><br>Breakfast was delicious, or would be if she ate it.&nbsp; Instead, she picked at it while her sisters all babbled and talked.&nbsp; Her parents kept up conversation with them and each other, trying to include her, but it didn't work.&nbsp; She could see they were worried about her but didn't care.&nbsp; She was worried enough about her own problems.&nbsp; However, their breakfast was cut short with news of noblemen arriving at their home.&nbsp; A pit in her stomach formed when she realized it was her soon to be husband and company...come early.<br><br>They moved to the parlor where they were to greet their guests.&nbsp; The girls all stood in the middle, the youngest, Chloe standing next to their mother.&nbsp; Abagail standing next to her, then Bridgette, and finally Melody standing next to her father.&nbsp; When they arrived, they were greeted heartily by her father.<br><br>"Welcome to our humble home," he said bowing to them.&nbsp; "May I introduce my family?"&nbsp; He moved over to his wife, Anastasia, introducing her first, before the others, each curtsying in turn, until he got to his eldest daughter.&nbsp; "And finally," he said.&nbsp; "Melody, my eldest daughter, who is hopefully to marry your son," he said speaking to Lord Petr.<br><br>Melody was stiff, but she curtsied as well.&nbsp; Her emotions were well written upon her face despite trying to hide them.&nbsp; She may not want this marriage, may even fear it, but...she didn't want her family to suffer for her not doing it or scaring him off.&nbsp; "Nice to meet you," she said like everyone else through her curtsy, despite the words being a bit forced.&nbsp; Bridgette and Abigail giggled a bit, old enough to understand what was going on.&nbsp; Chloe however just looked excited for new people to be around.&nbsp; She was nine, so she really didn't understand what marriage was.<br><br>"Shall I interest you in some refreshments?&nbsp; Food?&nbsp; Please, do make yourselves at home."
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				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>27-11-2014, 17:08:21</strong>
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				Melody's first look at their visitors confirmed at least one fear--as tall and slender as the elder male was, there was little chance of disguising his nature even had he used a glamour to cover his cat-like eyes.&nbsp; But the Clanlord had made no such concessions to Human sensibilities, either out of arrogance or out of a desire to appear honest and open, and so the Howletts looked upon an Elder Dragon in human form.&nbsp; His robes were fancier than she might have expected, heavy with inlaid charms and brocade, clearly meant for an important ceremonial occasion.&nbsp; He was severely handsome, this elder, and managed to look a touch kind even with the sober gravity with which he accepted her father's greeting.<br><br>"Your hospitality does you all honor, Lord Howlett," Lord Petr replied with a bow, a strange smile touching the corners of his mouth.&nbsp; "These are my vassals, truesworn, and my son, Simon."<br><br>Simon was dark of hair, the wavy mass pulled back into a tight queue at the nape of his neck, and darker of eye than his sire.&nbsp; They bore a similar look, but the son was less happy and more impassive than the sire.&nbsp; His robes, still of fine make, were not as ornate in their embellishment.&nbsp; He, too, bowed, but Melody could sense that he did so out of respect for the proprieties more than any genuine care for the impression he made.<br><br>"A pleasure," he answered her greeting, his voice a little dry, the tone rich and with hints of warmth should he allow it.&nbsp; "Blessings upon this house and all who dwell within it," he added a moment later, speaking the common benediction of any traveler grateful for entry...not entirely appropriate, but hardly a breach of etiquette.<br><br>This brought a short laugh from Lord Petr, who shook his head.<br><br>"No, lad," the elder grinned.&nbsp; "That's for inns upon the road and monastics who extend charity!&nbsp; These folk are to be family."<br><br>Son shot father an exasperated glance that, Melody fancied, matched the ones she'd seen her sisters bestow on their own.&nbsp; Lord Howlett, though, answered laugh with laugh.<br><br>"And here I thought him overly polite!&nbsp; Be you both welcome, then.&nbsp; Melody, sweetling, we ought allow you and Sir Simon a few moments while we crusty and doddering old folk attend to the particulars."<br><br>Simon's catlike eyes sought hers.&nbsp; His, she noted, were violet with golden flecks here and there.&nbsp; Quite exotic.&nbsp; His face, still doleful, seemed to lose a bit of tension after a moment's study of her features.&nbsp; Perhaps she pleased him?&nbsp; Who knew what a Dragon sought in a mate...<br><br>"I think I should like that."&nbsp; Simon turned to one of the guards.&nbsp; "We ought to have a chaperon," he suggested, and one of the two armored vassals nodded and stepped forward.&nbsp; Then, relaxing a little more, he turned back to Melody.<br><br>"Lead on, fair one, and we may discuss our conjoined fate without the ancient ones peering overshoulder."<br><br>Hearing this, Lord Petr laughed harder.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>28-11-2014, 02:35:47</strong>
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				At first glance, Melody didn't notice much about them.&nbsp; She was just watching them, terrified of her future husband and what he might be, personality wise, towards her.&nbsp; Then, she looked towards his father who was speaking.&nbsp; She looked into their eyes and at first just saw how dark they were and it made her shiver.&nbsp; There was something unnerving about them and she didn't fully know what.&nbsp; Until she looked a bit closer and realized they were....dragons?&nbsp; Fear washed over her, surely her father wasn't going to make her marry a dragon!&nbsp; <br><br>She barely heard her betrothed's words as he spoke but she wasn't paying attention.&nbsp; Her mind was reeling on everything going on.&nbsp; Her sisters noticed and tried not to laugh, unsuccessfully, and earned a glare from their mother who told them to behave.<br><br>Then, her own father was telling her that she should spend some time with him, get to know him.&nbsp; She really didn't want to but didn't argue.&nbsp; "Yes Father," she said, fear in her voice, especially as she felt Simon's cat like eyes on her, studying her.<br><br>"Come on you three," she heard her mother say.&nbsp; She ushered her three sisters out of the room.&nbsp; "It's time for your lessons."&nbsp; She heard them complain, but soon they were out of earshot.&nbsp; What got Melody's attention the most though, was him asking for a chaperon though.&nbsp; That frightened her a bit.&nbsp; Was she not to trust him without someone watching them?<br><br>She meekly led the way to the garden, feeling extremely nervous and scared.&nbsp; She was alone, with two dragons, one was to be her husband.&nbsp; Turning her attention on some Tiger Lilies, she tried to clear her mind and not be so afraid.&nbsp; Yet, she was so frightened and nervous she was shaking.&nbsp; Not to mention everything that had happened last night has added to her being shaken up.&nbsp; Biting her lip, closing her eyes, and taking a deep breath, she managed to calm down a slight bit.&nbsp; "When's the wedding?" she asked, her words oozing fear.&nbsp; She hoped she could have some time to prepare.&nbsp; Her father said it would happen within the week though, so hopefully it wouldn't be tonight.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>28-11-2014, 05:41:30</strong>
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				The guard, who seemed human enough, followed the pair just far enough to keep them in sight.&nbsp; He certainly did not come close enough to overhear their conversation, not that there was much of that for several minutes!&nbsp; Instead, Simon seemed content to simply stand there, gazing out at the world beyond the walls of her family keep.&nbsp; Only when she asked him about the wedding did he stir himself to blink at her.<br><br>"They did not tell you?"&nbsp; In that moment, she saw the impassive mask slip, replaced by a look of astonishment.&nbsp; He sighed softly, turning away from her again.&nbsp; "They did not tell me, either.&nbsp; I did not even know this was happening until a few days ago."&nbsp; He frowned in thought.&nbsp; "I suspect that there is a great deal I have not been told."<br><br>He crossed his arms, frown deepening.<br><br>"I suspect there are things you have not been told, either.&nbsp; About my kind.&nbsp; And other things that you have been told that are not quite so.&nbsp; How we are expected to make this work, I do not know..."&nbsp; He ran one hand through his hair, shaking his head.&nbsp; "Tell me you are at least able to read and write?&nbsp; Of scholarly inclination?&nbsp; I should if nothing else like to have someone else in my life who has read a book!"
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				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>30-11-2014, 05:15:09</strong>
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				Nervousness and fear still engulfed her.&nbsp; She was afraid of what he might be like and what he was.&nbsp; Dragons were mysterious creatures.&nbsp; At least to her they were.&nbsp; She didn't know much about them except they were fierce creatures who were very prideful.&nbsp; They didn't back down in a fight and it was wise to not anger one.&nbsp; That was all she knew though.&nbsp; They weren't ultimately bad qualities, however too much pride and anger could make for someone who was easily angered.&nbsp; To what degree depended on them.&nbsp; Was he that way or more balanced?<br><br>When he spoke though, she looked down trying to hide her emotions that now included sadness.&nbsp; "I...I didn't know until yesterday," she told him.&nbsp; "I didn't even know who I was marrying.&nbsp; I was just told that I was to marry someone named Simon and that's it."&nbsp; She looked up at him then, looking him in the eye.&nbsp; "I still don't know who I'm marrying."&nbsp; She, obviously, knew it was him.&nbsp; All she meant by that though, was a hint for him to tell her about himself.&nbsp; "You're a stranger and I don't know anything about you, except that you're a ... dragon?"&nbsp; The way she said it hinted to him that she indeed didn't know much about him.&nbsp; "I can read though, and write.&nbsp; It's one of my favorite past times.&nbsp; We have a full library that I like to go and visit and spend a few hours in every day.&nbsp; We also have a family tutor that has schooled my sisters and I in many things."
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				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>30-11-2014, 05:43:10</strong>
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				He sighed again, louder and longer, seeming to deflate a little bit along with the sound.<br><br>"I suppose it was too much to expect, that one of us might have had the burden of sufficient foreknowledge, but in this I am your superior by the mere margin of a night and a day.&nbsp; Perhaps our elders expected we should not fight so much if the shock was still new when the crucial moment arrived?"&nbsp; His tone, though dry, was not particularly cold.&nbsp; "But you have a library.&nbsp; That is something, at least.&nbsp; I might even hope that you know how to play chess?"<br><br>He turned to regard her directly, and there might have been a hint of a smile at one corner of his mouth as he asked that final question.<br><br>"What do you need to know?&nbsp; My name is Simon, I am the youngest natural son of Lord Petr, and I am, as you are fully aware, a Dragon.&nbsp; Which means less than you might imagine, and more than you are likely to guess.&nbsp; I am also your designated bridegroom, a situation that concerns me almost as deeply as your status as bride concerns you."&nbsp; He tilted his head, and that quirky little almost smile lifted the corner of his mouth a little more.&nbsp; It still seemed an alien expression to him, as if he smiled but rarely.<br><br>"I am also not the favored son amongst my sire's clutch," he added, "which makes this sudden paternal interest in my marital status all the stranger to behold.&nbsp; And what of you, my bride-designate?"
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>30-11-2014, 20:14:32</strong>
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				Melody looked at him as he spoke, unable to wrap her head around the fact he was going to be her husband.&nbsp; She his wife.&nbsp; They barely knew each other.&nbsp; Then she saw the corner of his mouth twitch.&nbsp; Was he...smiling?&nbsp; "There's a chess table in the library," she told him.&nbsp; "And one over there in the corner."&nbsp; She pointed and you could see it, but barely.&nbsp; It was hidden among some bushes.&nbsp; "I know how to play, but...I'm not very good," she admitted.&nbsp; "We can...play some if you want?"<br><br>She listened as he explained who he was and she bit her lip softly at his words.&nbsp; She didn't really know what to do or think.&nbsp; At least until his "smile" widened a tiny bit.&nbsp; He truly didn't smile all that much did he?&nbsp; Was he serious all the time?&nbsp; In a bad mood almost all the time?&nbsp; Or did he just not smile?<br><br>"There's not much to tell about myself," she said softly.&nbsp; "I'm the oldest of my other three sisters.&nbsp; I like learning things.&nbsp; I like playing games though father tells me I'm getting too old for them.&nbsp; I love spending time in this garden and I like taking walks or riding my horse, Moonbeam."&nbsp; She wondered if he even cared for all the details she told him.&nbsp; Then a question popped in her head and she had to ask it.&nbsp; "Do you at least know what this marriage is about?"&nbsp; Was it really just about her father's health and the fear that her family was going to be left homeless?
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>30-11-2014, 20:27:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"That would be most welcome, yes.&nbsp; I thank you.&nbsp; I hope to provide a reasonable challenge," he nodded, clearly thinking of the offer of chess.&nbsp; "I have not yet mastered the game, but the myriad combinations are fascinating."<br><br>He tilted his head as she told him a few more details, nodding now and again as if to encourage her to continue.&nbsp; Right up until her last question, he seemed to relax a little more.&nbsp; But then she returned to the one matter that hung between them, and the tension in his posture and expression returned.<br><br>"I am unable to ease your desire for knowledge," he muttered.&nbsp; "I suspect that there is more to it, but I have been told little save that I am to marry, and that the one I am to marry is your person...but the reasons for this match, the cause for such haste?&nbsp; These have not been granted me."&nbsp; He turned away, back to the clouds drifting across the sky.&nbsp; "I further suspect that Lord Petr is not acting from his usual and habitual stance of careful planning and premeditation.&nbsp; Something has forced his hand, something that he has not seen fit to discuss.&nbsp; That is most vexing."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>30-11-2014, 20:51:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When he grew tense once more, she almost regretted bringing the subject up.&nbsp; It was something she knew was at least bugging the both of them.&nbsp; She supposed it was enough talk about their situation though.&nbsp; After all, there was no getting out of it unless their father's couldn't agree on it.&nbsp; She wondered what they were talking about right now.&nbsp; Sighing, she stood up and walked over to the chess table, sitting on the white side.&nbsp; "I forget which color moves first," she said looking down at the marble board.<br><br>She looked back up at him now.&nbsp; "Tell me about dragons.&nbsp; What are they like?&nbsp; More specifically, what are you like?" she asked.&nbsp; "And....don't answer this if you don't want to, but...how come you don't call Lord Petr father?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>01-12-2014, 00:13:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"The lighter color, by tradition, moves first.&nbsp; I would expect that there's some murky symbolism to it, but beyond that I can only guess the reason.&nbsp; It may be nothing more than needing to codify a rule."&nbsp; Again, that ghost of a smile's shadow touched his lips--it came more easily, this time, but whether this was due to the subject or her question was hard to tell.&nbsp; "You wish to play now?&nbsp; I would be willing to indulge you.&nbsp; It will keep us out of trouble, I suppose.&nbsp; Not that I expected that our watcher would be needed."<br><br>His laugh consisted of two coughing chuckles, hastily swallowed, and he gestured to her as if signalling that she could take the first move at her leisure.<br><br>"Dragons are...well, we are what we are, and what we always have been.&nbsp; I suppose the best way to put it is that in the collective, we are by turns congenial and back-stabbing in ways that Humans are not.&nbsp; But that may depend on which group of Humans one studies.&nbsp; I am considered to be somewhat eccentric because I prefer to study quietly over what passes for the push and shove amongst my clutch, but then I am at something of a disadvantage against them."&nbsp; He let a soft, sad little noise escape.&nbsp; "I <em>do</em> call him Father.&nbsp; Just not when I am less than pleased with him.&nbsp; Although it would be more accurate to say that he sired me than to say he raised me."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>06-12-2014, 22:05:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melody moved her first piece as she listened to him speak.&nbsp; She was silent for a moment after he finished, not knowing what to say.&nbsp; They were complete strangers towards each other, being forced to marry any day now, and she didn't know what to say to him.&nbsp; She wasn't very happy with her own father either.&nbsp; When it was her move again, she took it and finally spoke up.&nbsp; A bit of a mischievous look on her face.&nbsp; Leaning in a bit, she whispered to him just in case their watcher was listening.&nbsp; "Why don't we go and listen in on our Fathers' conversation?&nbsp; Perchance we could find out some information about this wedding."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>06-12-2014, 23:07:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He seemed to take her silence in stride, but whether he was pleased or upset was so very difficult to tell behind his impassive mask!&nbsp; He made his own move in response to hers...the obvious, avoiding the Fool's Mate...and leaned back to gaze at her through hooded eyes.<br><br>"You do not trust them to have our best interests in mind with this match?"<br><br>This time, she could definitely tell he was trying very hard not to smile, as though part of him wanted to do so very badly while another feared to let such a demonstration bloom.&nbsp; Was this a dragonish thing?&nbsp; Perhaps they thought of a smile, a grin, as something aggressive!&nbsp; They <em>did</em> have so very many teeth, didn't they?<br><br>"There may be hope for you!&nbsp; But if we return too soon, they may think we have come to acquiesce to their plans without further ado.&nbsp; I should prefer to be thought of as a hair more resistant to their demands."<br><br>He made his move to hers, his stance relaxing.<br><br>"But if our footsteps should happen to take us near enough to overhear a detail or three, where's the harm?&nbsp; It is not as though you do not have reason to show me around what is soon to be my home."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>06-12-2014, 23:51:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melody wasn't trying to hide back her mischievous grin.&nbsp; "It wouldn't matter if I trusted them or not," she said.&nbsp; "It's clear we have no choice in this matter.&nbsp; The terms however, I feel, are something we have a right to know about."&nbsp; Her smile widened as he seemed to agree with her, telling her his plans.&nbsp; "If I remember correctly," she said.&nbsp; "You were most interested in the library.&nbsp; My father's study happens to only be accessible through the library, which is where my father conducts all of his business.&nbsp; Shall I lead the way?" She asked standing up.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>07-12-2014, 00:02:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His eyes twinkled as he rose and gave her a respectful nod.<br><br>"Kindly lead on!&nbsp; I am indeed interested.&nbsp; As it happens, I may be adding to your store of tomes, if that would be acceptable.&nbsp; I have a modest collection of my own, and it would be more pleasant to have them here than to worry about one of my siblings having used them as kindling out of some misunderstanding or other."<br><br>Very carefully not noticing how the guard shadowed them, he fell into step beside her.<br><br>"I ought to be somewhat more forthcoming.&nbsp; My half-siblings are all proper Dragons, all from Father's prior mate.&nbsp; They are capable of taking human form, of course, and occasionally do so in order to comply with his oft stated intent that they broaden their horizons.&nbsp; Most of them have no aptitude for passing among your kind, nor much interest in improving their grasp.&nbsp; I, on the other hand..."<br><br>He sighed softly.<br><br>"My mother was Human.&nbsp; I am loathe to inquire after the particulars of my birth, but Dragonkind do not worry overmuch about certain proprieties.&nbsp; Father saw to it that I was raised, for I am blood of his blood, but were he Human I should never inherit.&nbsp; You understand?"<br><br>Oh.&nbsp; He was illegitimate?&nbsp; And half-blooded!&nbsp; That might certainly explain some of his earlier comments about being ill-regarded.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>11-12-2014, 21:37:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A bit excited he was willing to do this with her, she started leading him towards the library.&nbsp; "Would you mind if I read any of them?" she asked.&nbsp; "I still have yet to read all the books in our library, but I would love to see more added to it."&nbsp; They were almost out of the garden when he became more open to him about things.&nbsp; She stopped and looked at him, not sure what to say at first.&nbsp; She gave him a smile and said, "Then your father must love you a great deal.&nbsp; To treat you as such.&nbsp; Most others in your position, especially humans, get disregarded a bit more."<br><br>Maybe being married to him wouldn't be so bad.&nbsp; He didn't seem like a bad guy.&nbsp; "Come on," she said taking his hand and leading him towards the library.&nbsp; Once there, she pretended to show him around, slowly making their way to the door to her father's study.&nbsp; There, she signaled for him to be quiet and tried to listen in.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>12-12-2014, 05:40:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I shan't object," he replied after a moment's consideration.&nbsp; "It is not as though it is to be my library alone and...it will be pleasant to share at least one interest," he added with some reluctance, or perhaps bashful reflection.&nbsp; As she commented on his parentage, he let out a sad little sigh.<br><br>"Not precisely.&nbsp; Among dragonkind...such things are seen differently.&nbsp; I am as much a warning and a reminder to my siblings that they must not assume his favor simply because they are his first clutch."&nbsp; He blushed.&nbsp; "It is a delicate matter, you understand?"<br><br>But when she took his hand, which made him blush even more, she found his skin warm to the touch and smooth, not calloused and rough like her father's.&nbsp; Nor did he put forth much resistance as she drew him forth...and in cooperation he held his questions if not also his breath as they neared the study, from which the unmistakable but as yet undecipherable sounds of congenial masculine negotiation continued.&nbsp; Just as the pair reached a point where they might distinguish the discussion beyond, Melody heard her father give a laugh that preceded him opening the door.<br><br>"Ah, there you are!&nbsp; Go find your mother, lass.&nbsp; There's a wedding to plan!&nbsp; 'Pon the morrow, an' we can fetch a priest or priestess swift enough."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>14-12-2014, 18:22:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She smiled when he said she could read his books.&nbsp; "Do dragons have another language?" she asked, reading somewhere that they did.&nbsp; She had no idea if it were true or not.&nbsp; She felt embarrassed that she barely knew anything of the dragons.<br><br>She didn't know what to say to what he said next, not sure if what she was going to say is appropriate.&nbsp; She instead turned to give him a small smile with a look that said she still believed in what she had said earlier.<br><br>When they got to the door to listen, they were already finished.&nbsp; Sighing at her father's words, she was tempted to ask.&nbsp; However, did it really matter?&nbsp; What scared her though was the fact the wedding was to be tomorrow.&nbsp; "Father....does it have to be so soon?" she asked him.<br><br>Sighing at his answer, and resisting the urge to find out more about why they had to be married, she decided to just accept the basics of it.&nbsp; It was to take care of her family in the long run.&nbsp; She looked at Simon for a moment and curtsied, "Pardon me for a moment sir."&nbsp; Yes, she was being formal, but it was so her father wasn't thinking she was being rude or anything.<br><br>Sighing softly, she wandered around the estate for a bit, until she found her mother with her sisters, giving them sewing lessons.&nbsp; Looking up and seeing her eldest daughter, she left her other daughters to their work momentarily.&nbsp; "Why aren't you with Simon?" she asked once they had some privacy.<br><br>"Father told me to look for you..." she bit her lip before continuing.&nbsp; "He said that we need to plan the wedding for tomorrow."<br><br>"Why so soon?" she asked.&nbsp; "There's too much to be done in that short amount of time."&nbsp; Turning to face her other daughters, she was starting to sound a bit more excited, "Girls, put down your work there's things to be done for your sister's wedding."<br><br>Her sisters grew excited and had the exact opposite feeling that Melody had.&nbsp; She had loved someone, not two days ago.&nbsp; Sure, they had turned into a monster, but feelings didn't just go away.&nbsp; And while Simon was someone she thought she could be friends with, it would be hard thing for them to be more than friends for a bit, married or not.<br><br>The rest of the day her mother set her and her sisters to work, preparing for the inevitable wedding.&nbsp; Her younger sister was sent out to pick some wildflowers for the bouquet.&nbsp; Finally, late that evening, everything was done and the priest was expected to arrive tomorrow morning.&nbsp; Finished with her tasks, she decided to seek Simon out to speak with him a bit more.&nbsp; She found it important to at least get to know the person she was marrying, even if it were to just be friends with him.&nbsp; "Hello," she said when she found him, if she found him.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>15-12-2014, 00:24:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Simon opened his mouth to retort, but shut it again at a glance from Lord Petr.<br><br>"A moment or two with my son, if you don't mind, Lord Howlett?"<br><br>"Oh, not at all.&nbsp; Welcome to the family, my boy!&nbsp; I'll just go make arrangements with my castellan and the steward."<br><br>Without waiting for the man to hasten off, Lord Petr strode for the nearest door out onto the battlements where he and his fuming offspring might have the illusion of a private conversation, dragon to hatchling.&nbsp; Soon enough, staring out over the river, they stood side by side, lost in thought.<br><br>"Spit it out, son."<br><br>Knowing what his father expected, Simon bit back the first several angry words that came to mind and took a deep breath, thus missing the amused and approving twinkle in the older dragon's eye at this display of self-control.<br><br>"Why so soon?"<br><br>"Why not?"<br><br>"It seems..."&nbsp; Simon frowned in thought.&nbsp; "Desperate."<br><br>"It is."&nbsp; Petr leaned forward, rested his hands on the crenelation before him, and shifted language to what he would jokingly call High Draconic.&nbsp; "You pose a singular problem for the Clan.&nbsp; You cannot be left without support, lest that neglect reflect shame upon us.&nbsp; You cannot be openly supported, lest we be considered too weak to let you stand.&nbsp; And there is one other custom which, in all candor, I overlooked until almost too late."&nbsp; He pursed his lips.&nbsp; "You have copiously read what the human scholars say of us.&nbsp; What is your opinion on their work?"<br><br>Simon narrowed his glare, displeased at what felt like, seemed to be, a non-sequitur.<br><br>"They are fools, for the most part preferring to echo one another rather than daring to ask one of us."&nbsp; He took a deep breath.&nbsp; "I would go further and say that they do not even bother trying to verify half of what they write, or even remove obvious falsehoods and contradictions.&nbsp; And the supposed authorities are even more foolish!&nbsp; I've half a mind to write a few scathing arguments..."&nbsp; His voice died off.&nbsp; Such work, he knew too well, would not be well received.<br><br>"And we do not reply because the scribblings of the ape-things are below our notice," Lord Petr intoned grimly.&nbsp; "You know the attitude of your half-brothers well enough, I think.&nbsp; How they resent the fact that I recognized you, never remembering that I could not deny you without worse shame.&nbsp; How...simple they are."&nbsp; Another amused, approving glance, and then the elder delivered the grim thought at the heart of his meandering questions.&nbsp; "Simon, one of them has bribed another Clan to demand your hand in marriage.&nbsp; There is only one way to avoid surrendering you.&nbsp; Make your peace with it as best you can, son.&nbsp; Lord Howlett is popular enough that his son-in-law may be granted a measure of eccentricity in his scholarly tastes."<br><br>Clapping the younger on his shoulder in a fellow-well-met sort of gesture, Lord Petr returned inside, leaving Simon out on the wall to think...to mull matters over.&nbsp; In truth, he felt rooted to the spot in horror: the choice between marrying a Human and being granted to another Draconic clan as a trophy husband was even worse than merely being ordered to marry a Human...but, if Lord Petr told the truth, then...Melody was at least pleasant, and she had no more chosen this than he had, so they had that much in common.&nbsp; It was as good a reason as any to be gentle with her.<br><br>Gentler than one of his half-brothers would be, at any rate.&nbsp; But that thought did less than he might hope to stifle the impulse to pound his fist on the stone and roar his frustration to the world!&nbsp; He had wanted to remain alone a while longer with his thoughts and his books, his precious horde of tomes, and while away his time in careful thought and analysis!&nbsp; Now he had to impose himself on others in ways that made him uneasy at best.<br><br>So it was that he was still there, glaring out into the world when Melody came looking for him, and he forced himself to return her shy greeting with one of his own.<br><br>"I trust you are well in spite of the...magnitude of the event?"<br><br>His attempt at merry humor sounded flat, even to himself.<br><br>"Forgive me.&nbsp; Lord Petr has explained matters, at least as far as any Dragon Lord might deign to do.&nbsp; It is...humbling."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>17-12-2014, 05:02:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She silently nodded towards him, but her face grew curious when he mentioned the fact his father explained things.&nbsp; "Anything you wouldn't mind sharing?" she asked.&nbsp; She hoped he would tell her, but she wasn't going to pry it out of him.&nbsp; Just then, a servant came up to them.&nbsp; "Dinner is served," she said, curtsying a bit.&nbsp; "If you care Lord and Lady."<br><br>"Thank you," she said kindly to the girl.&nbsp; "Shall we go then?&nbsp; Or...would you prefer to be left alone?"<br><br>(Sorry for the short post, didn't really know how to carry it on for the moment).
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>18-12-2014, 17:24:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His smile grew a little more, though it was still mostly sad.<br><br>"I do not object to your company, Melody Howlett.&nbsp; And I suppose an intimate family supper with my new in-laws would not go much amiss."<br><br>He reached for her hand.<br><br>"It is the custom, is it not?&nbsp; Or do I overreach my welcome?"<br><br>It was odd, perhaps, to find such a powerful creature so shy and uncertain!&nbsp; But he was, as she was, both young and from what little she'd learned unused to socializing...a fault often found in sages and scholars, or so she had often heard.&nbsp; It made him seem a little less forbidding, unlike Lord Petr.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>18-12-2014, 19:23:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She blushed a bit as he grabbed her hand, but nodded to his first question.&nbsp; "No," she said.&nbsp; "You're not overreaching."&nbsp; She debated on whether or not she should tell him about Daniel.&nbsp; Deciding better against it, it was just best to forget about him completely.&nbsp; "I'm sorry we were both forced into this," she said softly.&nbsp; "But...it doesn't seem so bad," she said giving him a small smile.&nbsp; Then she led him to the dining room where everyone was already seated and waiting.<br><br>"Can you actually turn into a dragon," her youngest sister Chloe said.<br><br>"That's enough Chloe," her mother said.&nbsp; "Eat your food.&nbsp; I'm sorry Simon," she said apologizing.&nbsp; "She hasn't quite learned her manners yet."<br><br>Melody sat down in a seat next to her mother and there was an empty seat next to her for Simon.&nbsp; This was clearly set up, but she didn't really mind.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>21-12-2014, 01:42:54</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He smiled in reply and accompanied her to supper, taking care to shorten his strides so that they matched hers...and when they arrived, he smiled a little at Chloe's question.<br><br>"That is perfectly all right, Lady Howlett," he answered the lady of the manor, a little more of what seemed his natural gentleness coming forth.&nbsp; "And if it please you, I should hazard an answer.&nbsp; It seems her question comes from the heart, from curiosity, and not from something more base."<br><br>He bent at the knee, still holding Melody's hand, bringing himself down to Chloe's level.&nbsp; Looking the little girl in the eyes, he spoke to her with gentleness that seemed surprisingly unlike his previous brooding.<br><br>"As it happens, smallest sister, I <em>can</em> do such a thing.&nbsp; But I rarely without good and just cause, for I do not wish to frighten you nor any of your kin, nor the least of your vassals.&nbsp; They have done naught to me, that I should cause them distress.&nbsp; Do you understand?"<br><br>Straightening, he seemed a little happier still and took the offered seat at the table.<br><br>"There may come a day when I must take such actions.&nbsp; I pray it be long in coming, for though it is for me most natural, I am comfortable enough as I am and do not wish to defend my lord, my host, and soon my father in law in such fashion."<br><br>"Are you a knight, then," Chloe giggled, and Simon shook his head.<br><br>"Not as such, and yet I bear the duties of one, as would any good guest."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>02-01-2015, 07:14:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Pleased with the answers, and not having any more at the moment, Chloe just ate her food, glancing from person to person.&nbsp; She seemed excited by everything going on, it was fun to her, having strangers over.&nbsp; Another question popped into her head and she asked, "Will Melody have to move away?"&nbsp; She seemed sad then, not wanting to lose her sister.<br><br>Melody instinctively squeezed Simon's hand at the question, wondering herself if she was going to have to move away after tomorrow.&nbsp; Melody sat down next to Simon, as her father answered her question.<br><br>"Nonsense," he said.&nbsp; "Simon and Melody are to remain here, after all, Simon will run this place once they're married and I retire."&nbsp; Her father coughed some more, signalling that he was unwell to continue running the place.&nbsp; Still, Melody didn't understand why she couldn't run the place by herself.&nbsp; Yes, he told her that she couldn't inherit because she wasn't male, but that didn't seem fair to her.&nbsp; What was the point of teaching her how to run this place if she didn't get to.<br><br>Letting go of Simon's hand, she started to eat, getting lost in thought.&nbsp; "Eat your food dear," she heard her mother say to a Chloe who looked like she was going to ask another question.&nbsp; "But why do they need to get married?" Chloe asked anyways.&nbsp; She was genuinely curious, clearly she didn't understand what the term marriage even meant.<br><br>"You'll know when you're older," her mother replied.<br><br>Melody looked over at Simon and said, "She's too curious for her own good."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>02-01-2015, 21:02:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Again, Simon responded with kindness and indulgence rather than any show of disdain.<br><br>"She is curious, yes, but it comes from a desire to learn.&nbsp; How can that offend one such as I, who gathers tomes of knowledge that I may gain mastery of many subjects?"<br><br>He grinned, looking even more relaxed now that the ice was broken.<br><br>"I fear I must break custom.&nbsp; Is it not normally done that a man's in-laws are to be regarded with alarm and fear?&nbsp; Yet I am more welcome here than among my own."&nbsp; He turned again to smile at little Chloe.&nbsp; "Your sister, being heir to your sire's trade, shall remain with you, as family ought.&nbsp; I am come to aid her in that matter, not to usurp what she has rightfully earned."<br><br>When he returned his gaze to Melody's, nodding politely to her father in passing, he leaned closer.<br><br>"That was my understanding of the matter, at any rate."<br><br>That thought remained with her even after supper, after she had been officially marshaled back to her chambers for the traditional separation of bride and groom before their nuptials.&nbsp; Even as Mother fussed and puttered about, settling last moment details like a brooding hen herding one errant chick, that hint that perhaps marriage to a Dragon, or a Half-Dragon, would not be the waking nightmare and endless prison sentence that even her longed-for union with Daniel would certainly prove in short order.<br><br>A man who did not rule all she did in right of her own toil?&nbsp; Who stood gently by to watch, rather than took it upon himself to command and demand?&nbsp; One who did not seek her for lustful imposition, but saw in her an intellectual equal?&nbsp; It seemed a fairy tale, a whimsy, a fleeting glimpse of an illusion.<br><br>Upon the following morn, she was roused and bathed and dressed by a pack of giggling maids, all of whom were far more excited for the grand event than she herself could manage to be.&nbsp; Her breakfast was minimal, the better to avoid upsetting her stomach and balance the humors appropriate, and she could only imagine what Simon was enduring...<br><br>For his part, Simon had not slept a wink, remaining up on the battlements and pacing in thought.&nbsp; Finally, as the sun's first rays broke across the horizon, he hastened to return to his given rooms and there submitted to be properly attired by his new valet, granted by Lord Howlett, who asked too many questions after his whereabouts the night before.<br><br>"I was thinking," Simon replied dryly.&nbsp; "This honor Lord Howlett offers me is worthy of contemplation."<br><br>He explained nothing else, mute and seeming to brood again as he had the day before until Lord Petr came to escort him before the priest, whose duty it was to perform the matrimonial sacrament that was to bind him to Lady Melody until death parted them.&nbsp; He took instruction from both sire and cleric with mute assent, nodding to keep them appraised of his notice, but embraced none of it.&nbsp; Finally, the priest went to issue his instructions to the bridal party and father and son were left to their own.<br><br>"You are still opposed?"<br><br>"Not that, my lord," Simon answered.&nbsp; "I have been thinking on what you told me, about the other claim."<br><br>"Yes?"<br><br>"I shall have to fight to defend these people."<br><br>Lord Petr blinked, slow and saurian, before nodding and giving a rumbling chuckle deep in his throat.<br><br>"You will.&nbsp; It will be a calculated insult, in the eyes of those who seek to embarrass our Clan, though it is neither against practice nor custom to so proceed.&nbsp; I think, however, you will be more than their match."<br><br>Simon glanced at his sire skeptically.&nbsp; "I am a scholar, not a solider."<br><br>Lord Petr lowered his voice.&nbsp; "You are half Human, Simon.&nbsp; Humans are terribly creative.&nbsp; And you have read voluminously.&nbsp; Have you ever seen Clans fight?&nbsp; It is a brawl on a grand scale, with neither skill nor subtlety."<br><br>The young half-Drake thought on this for a time longer, even as his sire stood to take his place.&nbsp; By the time he, too, assumed his spot to await his new bride, he was smiling broadly as the implications laid themselves bare to his mind's eye.<br><br>But then he caught a glimpse of Melody, and further thought along this line ceased, for she was more than enough to distract him!<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>03-01-2015, 07:16:34</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				He didn't want to take away what was rightfully hers?&nbsp; Well, that would be impossible for him, considering this is exactly what marriage would do.&nbsp; Even if they didn't marry, or she never married, then she still couldn't inherit the estate.&nbsp; It would never be hers no matter what, simply because she wasn't male.&nbsp; Sighing softly, she continued eating her meal until it was time for her to retire.&nbsp; Her sisters were immediately sent off to bed a bit earlier than she, but it wasn't long before her mother came after her.<br><br>"Come on dear," she said, ushering Melody along.&nbsp; Melody looked back at Simon one last time, because she wouldn't see him again until moments before they were married.&nbsp; "We have so much to do still for tomorrow.&nbsp; Sure, we're done with everything that involves setting up for a wedding but there's still you," she prattled on when they got to her room.&nbsp; At first she didn't notice anything different about her room, however when her mother walked behind her dressing screen she followed.<br><br>Melody gasped at what she saw.&nbsp; It was a beautiful wedding gown (http://www.dawnsmedievaldresses.co.uk/images/118%20ivory%20resize.jpg).&nbsp; She reached out to touch the fabric gently, when her mother replied, "It was mine when I married your father, given to me by my mother.&nbsp; That gown belonged to your great grandmother."<br><br>"It's so beautiful mother," she said.&nbsp; "Thank you."<br><br>"Yes well, you'll be passing it down to your eldest daughter one day," she said smiling.&nbsp; Melody hugged her and when she did, all her emotions throughout the day came to her and she cried.<br><br>"What's the matter?" she asked holding her.<br><br>Shaking her head, she said nothing and just wiped her tears.&nbsp; "Everything that's happened," she said.&nbsp; "It's just going by so fast and I don't know what to think about it all."<br><br>"You're father and I had an arranged marriage," she said.&nbsp; "As you know, and we didn't get along at first and still don't, but we grew to love each other.&nbsp; I'm sure you can do the same with Simon.&nbsp; I wish you didn't have to go through this right now, but..." Her mother choked up a bit, starting to cry herself worried.&nbsp; "You know your father isn't in good health and he's just wanting to ensure that we're all taken care of."<br><br>"I know," Melody said.&nbsp; "But what does it matter what gender I am.&nbsp; I can run this place as well as any man."<br><br>Her mother chuckled at that and said, "Let me give you a bit of advice.&nbsp; A man may be the head, in charge of everything, but the woman's the neck.&nbsp; You play your cards right, you will be the one to run this place.&nbsp; You just can't do it alone.&nbsp; Now, off to bed you have a big day tomorrow."&nbsp; Kissing her daughter on the forehead, she left leaving Melody alone.<br><br>What her mother and Simon both said rang in her mind.&nbsp; All she had to do was play her cards right and Simon didn't want to take any of this away from her.&nbsp; Sighing, she admired the dress some more before walking over to the window seat and looked out the window.&nbsp; Sighing softly, she thought about tomorrow, growing more and more nervous as she did so.&nbsp; Marrying Simon wouldn't be so bad.&nbsp; He seemed kind.&nbsp; However, so did Daniel.&nbsp; What if he was putting on a show too?&nbsp; It didn't matter though, she was to marry him tomorrow and that's that.&nbsp; Yawning, she moved over to the bed and called in her servants, having them help her change out of her dress and corset into a sleeping gown.&nbsp; Finally ready for bed, she went to sleep, dreaming about tomorrow which came way too early.<br><br>Sunlight tried penetrating her eyelids, her maids shaking her awake, and the smell of breakfast hit her nose.&nbsp; Groaning, she sat up, rubbing her eyes.&nbsp; "Darling get up," her mother said, bursting into the room in a hurry.&nbsp; "We have a lot to do this morning and you need to hurry and eat so you can get ready."<br><br>"What time is...." she started but her mother interrupted her.&nbsp; "No time to talk, eat while the bath is prepared."&nbsp; Clapping her hands, ordering servants to bring in the tub and start filling it, which they did.<br><br>Sighing, Melody sat up all the way and started eating her very meager breakfast.&nbsp; Stomach growling, she wished there were more, but then again, as nervous as she was, she wouldn't be able to hold much down.&nbsp; She quickly ate the eggs and toast, drinking the milk that was served with it.&nbsp; Then, she was in the tub, her mother ordering her maids around trying to get things done quickly.&nbsp; It wasn't long before she was dressed and her hair and makeup was fixed.<br><br>Looking in the mirror, she saw how beautiful she was.&nbsp; It still made her nervous and scared though.&nbsp; As beautiful as she was, she knew that it wouldn't be her maids who took this gown off of her tonight.&nbsp; It would be Simon.&nbsp; Swallowing hard, she heard her mother gasping over how beautiful she looked and the maids were also envying her.&nbsp; "You're ready," her mother said, ushering her out of the room.&nbsp; Handing her the bouquet her sister had picked yesterday, she ushered her out of the room, led to the priest who was to bind her and Simon together for life.&nbsp; Peering into the room, she felt sick and nervous.&nbsp; "I need some air," she said, immediately stepping just outside the manor.<br><br>They left her alone, thinking they would get her before the wedding was to start.&nbsp; However, she wasn't alone.&nbsp; Some men were lurking in the shadows, waiting for the right time to strike.&nbsp; When they saw Melody leave the home, they knew it was time.&nbsp; Grabbing her from behind, she had enough time to scream just before they covered her mouth, gagging her properly.<br><br>"Now then," said one of the grubby men.&nbsp; "Don't make this any more difficult than it has to be."<br><br>The second on threw her over his shoulder and carried her off.&nbsp; She kicked and hit, screaming through the gag, just before things went dark.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>05-01-2015, 02:00:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It was some minutes before anyone noticed that the bride was missing, but by chance one of the pageboys saw Melody's abduction and raced to spread the alarm.&nbsp; By the time her captors had her down the hill toward the village, urging their mounts to greater speed, the boy was skidding to a rough stop just inside the family chapel, barely wriggling free of the embarrassed sentry trying to stop her.<br><br>"They've taken Milady Melody," he cried out just before his ears were to be boxed...and that punishment was stayed only by virtue of the puzzled anger growing on Lord Howlett's face.<br><br>"Say again, boy?"<br><br>"Three men, rough as bandits, milord," the boy swallowed, fidgeting under the man's glare.&nbsp; "I saw them slip out the lesser gate...and she was fighting them, it so please you."<br><br>As Lord Howlett inhaled, no doubt intent on bellowing orders to his men to pursue, Lord Petr came and laid a hand on his shoulder.&nbsp; Perplexed, ashen-faced, the nobleman turned to regard his draconic in-law.<br><br>"Will you permit me, most gracious host?"&nbsp; Without waiting for a reply, he turned to his son, whose brooding had now turned to something else entirely.&nbsp; "Simon, it appears someone has stolen your bride.&nbsp; She is in need of your help."<br><br>Without a word, Simon unbuckled his belt, shrugged out of the ornate outer robes he had donned for the occasion.&nbsp; Both of these he passed to Lady Howlett and nodded before walking swiftly for the tallest tower in Howlett Keep.<br><br>"But...but they went <em>that</em> way," the page boy blurted out, only to squeak in alarm when Lord Petr turned to regard him with the sort of intense interest a hawk might give a vole that had dared ascend to its nest.&nbsp; The Howletts shared a look that spoke of their own concern, the same question occurring to them.&nbsp; But the Dragon Lord gave no answer, even as a glimmer of amusement danced in his eyes.<br><br>+ + +<br><br>It was fortunate for Melody that she was insensate for the ride down the hill, for her abductors rode hell-for-leather, sparing neither themselves nor their horses the worst that speed could do to muscle and bone.&nbsp; They raced all the faster when, far behind them, from the keep, they heard a mighty roar of fury that promised worse than pain.<br><br>"Dragon!&nbsp; 'E said she'd be forced to tup one!"<br><br>"Stop your mouth and ride, fool!"<br><br>"...not paid enough for this, sworn brother or no..."<br><br>+ + +<br><br>Simon quickly gained the tallest tower, stripping out of his under-robe as he stood in the doorway, ignoring the blushing and stammering guardsman.&nbsp; Scanning the lay of the land, he quickly found the fleeing mounts and their prisoner...and checked himself, eyes narrowing.<br><br>"Mi-milord!"<br><br>Belatedly noticing the man, Simon reached back to pull his hair out of the long ponytail he kept it in.<br><br>"Yes?"<br><br>"Tha' art half naked...why?"<br><br>"Robes get in the way," he answered absently.&nbsp; "Avert your eyes, there's a good man...and block your ears."<br><br>Taking a deep breath, shutting his eyes to concentrate, Simon <em>shifted</em>.&nbsp; As always, the pain was incredible--brief but intense, his form shifting from Human to something else, something altogether more primal.&nbsp; Scents and sounds changed, became sharper.&nbsp; When he could hear the man's racing pulse and smell his fear, he opened his eyes again and found his quarry.<br><br>Another glance at the hapless guard showed the man like to faint.<br><br>"Block your ears," Simon repeated.&nbsp; "And fear me not."<br><br>Numb with shock, the guard did as he was told, clapping both mailed hands over the sides of his helmet, staring as the lithe draconian figure even then mounting the crenelations threw back that crested head and roared before launching over the side and taking wing...and continued, awestruck, to watch as Simon glided out far enough to ride a thermal updraft up to the clouds themselves.<br><br>+ + +<br><br>Melody woke to the feel of a hand roughly groping her bottom.&nbsp; Or, rather, grabbing her there to keep her in saddle as the horse under her leaped a muddy stream and dodged a fallen tree.&nbsp; It was darker than she expected--trees to her right and left met her blurred vision.<br><br>"Excellent idea," a man's voice cut into her consciousness.&nbsp; "Let's run into the forest, where we've no way to outdistance it!"<br><br>"Stop your mouth," her fondler barked.&nbsp; "We cannot race, and it cannot see us.&nbsp; Nor can it fly down upon us with ease.&nbsp; Damned monster..."<br><br>"You'd think we'd stolen its bride," a third man offered his rough speech and coarse laugh marking him as an outlaw at best.&nbsp; "Is she like to thank us for't?"<br><br>"Lord Daniel will thank you, and that's all you need know, villein," sneered the fondler.&nbsp; "You did well enough, but I do not think he'll thank you for your comments about the lady's bountiful charms."<br><br>"I'm not like to tell him," the coarse man brayed with laughter...only for his merriment to cut off with a thunking sound and a gurgle, followed by the thump of a body hitting the dirt.<br><br>"About time you did that," the fondler told his pessimistic companion.<br><br>"Dragons have very good hearing," the first man said, sounding not at all apologetic for his sudden act of murder.&nbsp; "And it helps to convince our passenger that we mean business.&nbsp; Her Ladyship is awake."<br><br>"Bugger."<br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Chiarra</strong> on <strong>08-01-2015, 02:32:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Melody slowly awoken, feeling someone groping her behind, hearing talk of outrunning a beast.&nbsp; When she fully came too, she heard Daniels name and her eyes widened.&nbsp; They surely didn't mean...they must.&nbsp; Who else would have her kidnapped on her wedding day?&nbsp; That terrified her.&nbsp; Would he still be angry with her?&nbsp; Obviously he wasn't going to let go of her, angry or not.&nbsp; He did have her kidnapped after all.&nbsp; It was then that the second man was murdered, and she screamed.&nbsp; "Let go of me!" she struggled.&nbsp; "My fiance will find us!" she screamed.&nbsp; She was trying to be as loud as possible, hoping Simon could hear her.<br><br>((Sorry this is a bit short, didn't know how far to actually take this.))
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Mismatch (Chiarra/MP)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MadPanda</strong> on <strong>10-01-2015, 22:35:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The man whose burden she was reached back and gave her a hard smack on her bottom, hard enough to sting.<br><br>"Be quiet!&nbsp; I've just had a man murdered for't, and our charge was to save you from having to be a breeding sow for a monster.&nbsp; Dead's as secure as alive and given unto my lord's custody."&nbsp; He repeated the smack, adding a rough fondle of her sensitive flesh.<br><br>"And the purse splits two ways as well as three," his companion muttered, pulling away so that their mounts were well out of a man's reach to either side.<br><br>"Aye, but you're my sworn brother and that fool was just some sot we paid to come with us."<br><br>"Fair enough..."<br><br>They rode a time longer in as much silence as Melody would permit them, arriving at last at a tiny hunting lodge just inside the far edge of the woodland.&nbsp; There the grooms rushed out silently, nodding to her captors as though they knew these men well, and urged them inside and under cover.<br><br>"We heard the beast a-roarin'," one whispered to her immediate handler.&nbsp; "Does it pursue?"<br><br>"Like as not, aye.&nbsp; Get her secure."
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