Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Janus Belmont on 25-07-2009, 23:30:31</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>25-07-2009, 23:30:31</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size"><br><strong><br>Crescendo</strong><br><br>The year was 1888. England was under the prosperous rule of Queen Victoria. Twenty seven years had passed since her beloved Prince Albert was put to rest, thirty eight years since the Great Exhibition and Catholic reclamation, and forty six years since the Royal Commission Report brought about the Mines Act that saved the lives of many women and children. The industrial and social changes were fantastic for economic and cultural growth in Great Brittan. Of course, not all was well in her majesty's kingdom.<br><br>Poverty was abundant. The Industrial Revolution had brought about a great change for the better in England, but the rapid growth in population and the process of urbanization made jobs difficult to hold and wages down to fractional amounts, so to speak. Slums were plentiful, overcrowded and packed to the brim with citizens, struggling for food, comfort, water and shelter. Needless to say, all of these were very difficult, if not impossible to maintain.<br><br>Children were often subjected to poor treatment. Young Byron Graves was no exception. Growing up in the slums of London made him appreciate the kindness of others, if only because it was such a stark contrast to what he received at home. He and his father had been living in a house with thirty other peasants and struggling to make ends meet. Byron was often the target of his father's rage and abuse, though he did all he could to make the man happy.<br><br>One night his father never came home. After almost a week of waiting Byron became worried and made his way out of the crowded house, fighting to fit between the door ways and people. For three days he searched for his father, checking the factories, the local pubs, anywhere that he knew he frequented. Starving, exhausted, lost, and on the verge of tears the young boy wandered the streets of London in search of the only family he had left.<br><br>The scenery began to change. The buildings were cleaner, the streets were well taken care of, Byron could see flower beds and carriages, gentlemen in elegant coats and ladies in frilled dresses. He felt so out of place and alone...it seemed that none of the the people seemed to notice him, or even care about the boy begging for food and information. <br><br>He was dirty, ragged, torn. His deep blue eyes would glimmer in the moon light as he peered up into the heavens. His lengthy blond hair was matted and unkempt, his face was dirty and bruised. He was certain his scent was unpleasant, the very appearance of his clothes made his home life all the more obvious. Still he searched, still he begged. He had to find his father...he didn't want to be alone.<br><br>With the last of his energy the boy knocked on a door. A woman answered, only to find him passed out on her steps. Panic overtook her, but soon compassion replaced her worry. The young woman scooped him up in her arms and took him into her home.<br><br>For ten years Byron was well taken care of. He was lucky to have found a kindhearted middle class family. Eliza Blanchard was a local school teacher and well known for her generosity. Her husband, John, was a gentleman and musician for a small orchestra that performed in local theaters. They were unable to have children of their own, and had been considering adoption for quite some time. They raised Byron as if he were their son, they educated him, gave him a better chance at life. While he never found his father, he seemed to have forgotten all of his woes in this new life.<br><br>Byron had often sat in on John's musical practice. He was fascinated by the sound of his violin, captivated, enthralled. He begged John to teach him how to play, to teach him music, to allow him to make those angelic sounds. John was moved, and eagerly taught him the basics of reading music and playing the instrument. <br><br>Countless hours were spent after school and chores with John in the musical study. They could not afford to buy him his own instrument, so the boy and his new father had to take turns with practice and teaching. It wasn't long before he became a master of the basics and was moving on into more advanced techniques, eventually writing his own songs for his father to play and critique.<br><br>On his eighteenth birthday Byron awoke to a letter on his bedside. It contained instructions from John and Elizabeth regarding a special gift. Needless to say he was curious, the new adult had the sensation of a school age child on Christmas morning. He quickly dressed himself and made ready for the day. <br><br>The letter instructed him to visit the local theater, where John and Elizabeth would be waiting for him. He ran as fast as he could, and before noon he arrived on the stone steps. As he made his way inside he saw John and Elizabeth, their warm, loving smiles told him they were happy to see him indeed. The first thing that caught Byron's attention was the black case beneath John's arm...it wasn't his usual violin case. It was then that his heart skipped a beat. <br><br>John presented the bold black case to his son. Byron was reduced to tears. He didn't even take the thing from his hands before draping his arms around his shoulders. The family would hug and spend the rest of the evening together in celebration.<br><br>Byron would spend the next few weeks in the local theater hall practicing on his own. His skills improved quickly, his passion for music was a devotion that he had never known before. He had so much to thank his family for...their kindness, their love, all given to a complete stranger. He felt the urge to thank them...to find a way to show them how much he cared about his family!<br><br>Over the course of a week he dropped his practice to a minimum while working a full time job at a flower shop. Botany quickly became another hobby of his, a particular favorite was working with roses. After a while he began working full time both in an effort to save up for a gift and for a continued university education. These people had given him hope, and he was going to do his best to thank them for it.<br><br>Not all was to be pleasant, however. Byron had yet to decide on a gift; nothing he seemed to think of was fit for the purpose he had in mind! He was working more often, and between his botanical work and his musical study, he had little to no time for himself. <br><br>One evening when he returned home he noticed the house was eerily quiet. He made his way up stairs and knocked Elizabeth's and John's door. He could hear weeping...was it Elizabeth's voice? Byron turned the knob and pushed the door open. <br><br>"Mother?"<br><br>Elizabeth was peering over the bed side in her night gown, her face stained with tears. John was resting silently on the bed, his chest did not rise or fall. His heart seemed to stop...the room began to spin. Byron fell to his knees and stared up at the ceiling of the room. He had lost his father a second time...<br><br>The funeral was a dreary one. His mother entered a deep depression after an illness stole her husband, and in spite of Byron's best efforts to take care of her and cheer her up, she feel into a very poor state of health. She died two months after her husband passed. Byron was alone...he had no one left.<br><br>Two weeks passed. The flower shop where he worked&nbsp; had gone under, thanks to a few gambling debts the owner had accumulated. As he searched for a new source of income Byron would often be seen playing his violin in the streets. His songs were beautiful, deary, emotional, his ultimate form of expression. With his hat turned up before him, he would receive a few shillings&nbsp; from kind citizens as they passed by. <br><br>The once ragged child was now a handsome young man. His blond hair was well taken care of, resting down at about shoulder length around the sides and back with lengthy blond bangs. He was often teased for its length and style, along with the fact that he refused to grow facial hair, though he felt that his appearance, along with his music, were excellent forms of expression. His clothes were a casual, elegant mix. He wore a buttoned down white shirt beneath a black vest, a black pair of pants covered his legs.<br><br>Every night he could be heard playing in the streets, his eyes were often closed, his head was often low, the man lost in thought as his violin sounded his deepest emotions and struggles. It was getting late on a chilly evening and he was pondering retiring for the night. Still, he wished to continue playing as tears from past memories streamed down his face.<br></span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 02:39:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Raised in wealth and privilege, promised to one of the finest men in the city, Laureen Carlisle should have been the happiest young woman in England. Her life had been carefully planned out by her family, the lessons she had, the tutors who she studied with, what she wore and who she would marry. Laureen had other ideas, and they didn't include being the trinket on some man's arm for the rest of her life while she smiled and curtsied and played the role of the quiet dutiful wife, it simply was not who she was.<br><br>The first time she'd heard the beautiful but sad music on the street was the night her father announced her engagement. The music touched her, it spoke to her, and it fit her mood. She cried listening to it, never seeing the man playing.&nbsp; The next time she heard the music was the night she'd met the man she was to marry, again she felt something stir inside of her listening to it. It was almost as if the musician was playing just for her.<br><br>Tonight she stood on the street and watched the man play, she studied him as he lost himself in his own world, in his own pain which was written on his face.&nbsp; She wondered what brought him so low to be sitting in the street with his sad melodies night after night. He was a stranger, and already more interesting to her than her betrothed.<br><br>The air was growing much colder as the night wore on, and she noticed his attire wasn't suitable at all for it. She could offer him a ride home, her carriage was only just at the end of the street waiting for her. How her father would love that, the people on the street didn't exist in his world unless they were covered with the finest fabrics and donned the most expensive jewels. <br><br>"You there, don't you know any better than to come out of the cold? Whats that melody you're playing?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 03:35:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">Byron would continue to play, unaware of the eyes that watched him on the chilly night. His bow would cross the strings with timed, precise strokes, the melody was slow, almost haunting in its self. As his hand danced in the cool night wind the music grew ever louder, the song grew more complex even with one instrument playing. <br><br>As the song reached its climax his hand appeared to be a blur from a distance, his wrist, his fingers, all moving quickly to move his bow to match the meter of his beloved piece. <br><br>His eyes were closed, his mind in complete concentration. It wasn't until he heard the soft voice of his only audience that his sapphire eyes would open. He would peer at the girl searchingly as he continued playing through the final measures. Soon his hand would slow to a stop on a long, final note. His bow would fall to his side and a long, quiet sigh would pass his lips.<br><br>"I've yet to think of a name for this one..." His voice was gentle and warm in spite of the mild redness of his eyes. His cold hand brushed a tear from his cheek. He would lift his hat from the ground and dust it off. Not a single shilling to be had.<br><br>The hat was a simple black chess hat, not uncommon for the men of his class. He placed it atop his head and pushed it down a bit too far. He had not adjusted to wearing one, as he had only bought it recently. He lifted the brim a bit to expose his eyes and gave the woman a polite bow. <br><br>"Forgive me...a lady of your class has no time to waste on a peasant like me. Don't let me keep you out in this bitter cold." <br><br>He stood to his full height and placed his violin in its black case. With a snap he closed the latches and lifted the case in one arm. <br><br>In spite of her social class, Byron could not force his eyes to move away. She was beautiful, to say the least, her voice was charming and polite. He felt his cheeks flushing a bit and his head quickly turned away. The man wouldn't speak for a moment, only brushing his hands over his clothes to ease out any wrinkles. A futile effort, of course.</span></div> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 04:37:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A clean set of clothes, a bath and a shave and Laureen imagined he'd be quite the gentleman. His eyes sparkled and she found herself wanting to know more about him.<br><br>"Then you've composed that yourself? You've a gift, I hope you cherish it"<br><br>She watched him pack up his instrument and try to make himself a bit more presentable, but the outfit he wore was beyond a simple smoothing over. Already a plan was going through her mind, it would benefit him, as it was obvious he hadn't a penny to his name and it would certainly benefit her, which was all that was important to her way of thinking.<br><br>"Its rather cold out, I would like to offer you a ride to wherever you're headed, perhaps you'll join me for tea"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 04:42:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">Did this woman know what she was getting her self into? If she was to be seen with the likes of him...<br><br>Byron turned to face his front door and gave the woman a polite smile. "Miss, I'm afraid I've nowhere to go tonight. I've been standing outside my home." He would pause for a moment and look her over once again. "However...I couldn't turn down an invitation to tea."<br><br>With his violin case in hand he made his way over to her side. "That is, if you're willing to bring me along."</span> </div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 05:23:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I wouldn't have made the offer otherwise.&nbsp; I'm Laureen Carlisle, and what shall I call you?"<br><br>Before he had a chance to answer she turned and headed in the direction of her carriage. Her driver gave a look of shock when she gestured for her companion to get in, though too proper to say anything.&nbsp; <br><br>A little small talk, some tea, something to eat and then she'd see if he would work for her plan.<br><br>"A bit warmer in here I'd should say, you play beautifully"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 05:35:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">His mouth would open, though the words would not escape him once her back turned. He sighed softly and smiled, lifting his case higher in his arm as he made his way behind her.<br><br>"Byron Graves..." <br><br>He found it funny that he had never taken on the name of Blanchard, but had only kept his father's last name instead. Perhaps he thought Graves sounded better than Blanchard when paired with the first name Byron. There was no reason to change it now: he had no other family to turn to.<br><br>When he felt the shocked gaze of her butler on him his gaze would turn to the ground beneath his feet. Honestly, Byron was just as surprised as he was. He silently climbed into the carriage and took a seat with his hands folded over his lap along with his violin case. <br><br>"Thank you kindly, Miss Carlisle." Byron's eyes remained focused downward, either on the case of his instrument or on the floor of the carriage. "I have to say, I never expected to be with such superior company."</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 06:21:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Knowing her parents were out for the evening and the house would be empty, she took Byron there. Once they pulled up to the house the driver opened the door to let them out and she led him into the front parlor, not speaking a word until they were inside.<br><br>"Please, wont you sit? I'll instruct the maid the bring the tea in here and start a fire, it will be good to warm up after being outside for so long"<br><br>She left him alone in the parlor and went to find one of the servants, and have her coat and hat hung up. The man, what did he say his name was, Byron? he was completely out of his element here, which would make this so much sweeter. If agreed, she wouldn't have to marry the insufferable bore her father chose, and there wouldn't be a thing he could do about it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 06:42:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">The house was something he had never expected to see as a man of the working class. Those deep blue yes would peer about the parlor in wonder and awe, from the various decorative items to the very architecture of the building. So clean, proper, everything was on a higher level than he was.<br><br>He seemed to be lost in the place. It was as if he were a child in a toy store. Oh the wonders to be seen...<br><br>It was then that her voice brought him back to reality. "Y-yes ma'am." He was cold, but her kindness and warmth seemed to make him forget about his troubles. "It's been a while since I've had tea..."</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 20:52:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Laureen saw to the tea and came back to the parlor only a few minutes later. The man seemed so out of place here, for some reason, she found that charming, she was tired of stuffy, overprivledged men who appreciated nothing but money. <br><br>"Please sit, and call me Laureen. I'm sure you're wondering why I've invited you here this evening for tea and.."<br><br>She stopped speaking as the maid brought the tea in and fixed it. She too looked over at Byron with confusion, even servants were better dressed than this man was, and here was Miss Carlisle treating him as a guest.&nbsp; When she left the room, Laureen spoke again.<br><br>"I have a proposition for you Mr. Graves, one that you will find extremely lucrative, but it depends on one question, do you have a wife?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 22:02:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">Byron would eye the tea with a warm smile. It had been such a long time...a cup of tea was something that he longed for. It was then that he heard that word pass her lips. <em>Lucrative</em>?<br><br>It was when the woman went about asking him if he was married that his curiosity was peaked. He paused for a moment and blushed faintly, wondering why she wanted to know such information, even more so why it had anything to do with her proposition.<br><br>"No, Miss...I'm not. I'm afraid to say this, but I've never courted a woman. I'm of the age, though with the situation at home, well, I just have not had the time." He smiled softly in her direction with a friendly look, curious as it was.<br><br>"Why do you ask?"</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>26-07-2009, 22:27:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I haven't a lot of time to make this sound nicer than I should, so I do hope you'll forgive me for speaking plainly. My father has arranged for me to marry someone that I don't find to my liking at all.&nbsp; I am prepared to pay you a monthly stipend, purchase a new wardrobe of clothes, a better violin as well as proper lessons"<br><br>She let all that sink in for a moment before she gave the condition.<br><br>"In exchange, before my proposed wedding date, you will marry me, it will be in name only.&nbsp; That is my proposition, what say you?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>27-07-2009, 05:19:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">Byron sat silently for a few moment. His fair complection was stained with shade of scarlet. The very idea! He wasn't sure if he should be offended, or flattered. An upper class woman wanted to marry a man like him...even if it was to escape from her arranged wedding...to snatch him away from the streets and bring her into her family...<br><br>"Proper lessons...I can deal with." He stood slowly, his sapphire eyes appeared to hold a strong resolve. "However...this violin is never to be replaced. It means more than any replacement..."<br><br>He sighed and turned his head for a moment. "F-...forgive me for that outburst. I'm not sure if I can give you an answer right away. I hardly know you!"<br></span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>27-07-2009, 15:33:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Of course you can, what better options do you have? To sit on the streets and play your lovely music where if you're lucky someone may or may not hear you? To be cold, have nowhere to stay? I'm offering you an amazing opportunity, are you fool enough to say no? I don't have the time for you to consider your options, meager as they are."<br><br>Was he actually considering turning her down? That was entirely unacceptable.<br><br>"What would make this offer more to your liking?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>27-07-2009, 17:59:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">Byron remained quiet for a moment. He had yet to touch his tea. Lost in thought, the young musician leaned back in his seat with his arms crossed over his chest. The brim of his hat was pushed down over his eyes in a solemn expression of contemplation. <br><br>After a few moments of silence he began to see the logic of her argument. She was right...what choice did he have? Morality was not his friend at the moment. It seemed that he was soon to be wed...<br><br>"I'll accept your offer with the current terms." He peered up at her with his hat resting over his chest. "I couldn't ask for a more generous invitation." He turned his head with scarlet cheeks. "A peasant like me...are you certain your parents will approve?"</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>27-07-2009, 18:20:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"No, I'm quite certain they will not approve, in fact my father will be furious, but once we're wed, there wont be a thing he can do about it"<br><br>She was pleased he'd accepted, Laureen was very accustomed to getting her own way and when it didn't happen easily, she found other ways around it. While she didn't look forward to announcing this to her parents, she knew they would have to accept it.<br><br>"I'll arrange for you to have a room tonight in one of the finer hotels in the city, and tomorrow morning we'll meet. I'll arrange everything, all you need to worry about it, is saying I do in the morning. You wont be sorry"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>27-07-2009, 18:26:07</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">Is this all he was to her? A way out of her situation? This wasn't exactly what he had in mind when he was told that the happiest days of his life would be spent as a husband. All the same, how was he to turn down her generosity? Perhaps he <em>could</em> make a good husband for her in the long run...all the same, he would strive to make her happy in any way he could, just as a good husband should.<br><br>"Thank you...I just hope I don't disappoint you."</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>27-07-2009, 19:04:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Standing from her seat she walked over to the desk in the parlor and wrote out a note. She folded it and sealed it, writing an address down on the front.<br><br>"Take this and go to that address, give it to the clerk and they will set you up in a good suite, order up something to eat, I'll have clothes for tomorrow delivered in the morning, now please, you should go before my father returns"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>27-07-2009, 21:16:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">He stood slowly and peered at the woman one last time. With his violin case in hand he place d a soft kiss on her cheek. "I'll see you soon I suppose."<br><br>With a sweet smile the young husband to be turned to make his way out into the chilly London streets. He lowered the brim of his hat down just a bit as he pondered the night's events. He was to be married...but was it for the right reason? Was it wrong to take part in holy matrimony just to allow a young woman to avoid an arranged marriage? Was he doing this for the right reasons?<br><br>Perhaps it was because he wanted to help her. The kind stranger had already offered so much to him. In his mind, it seemed to be a mutual arrangement for the best interest of both parties.<br><br>He gripped the case of his instrument firmly and held it to his chest, his arms drew it closer to him while his hand held the paper she had given him. Following the address precisely, Byron would soon arrive at the prestigious lodging for the evening.<br><br>Once inside he made his way to the counter with a quiet sigh. He felt so out of place...part of that feeling made him wonder if he could go through with this or not.</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>27-07-2009, 21:53:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Not ten minutes after he'd left a knock came to her bedroom door, opening it she could see by the look on her fathers face that he'd spoken with the driver and the maid, and was less than pleased.<br><br>"What did you think you were doing? We do not give rides to street urchins and you certainly know better than to bring them into my house, explain yourself"<br><br>"I heard his music on the street, and I've hired him to play the wedding, its the music I want, I'm sorry I didn't speak to you first, but I thought you'd be pleased that I was doing some of the planning"<br><br>The conversation became much more pleasant from that point on. He couldn't stay angry when she was finally doing as he told her to. And Laureen was beyond pleased with what tomorrow would bring. True her groom to be would require a lot of work before he could be seen in society, but she'd teach him, and teach him to her liking. <br><br>The following morning she left the house, she had so many errands to run and prepare, and made her way on foot to the hotel. A quick word with the desk clerk and she had a key to the room, though she knocked first, afterall, they weren't married yet.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>28-07-2009, 04:46:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">In spite of sleeping in the most comfortable bed he had ever felt in his life, Byron couldn't find comfort in the warmth of the blankets. He had no appetite, so no food was ordered for his evening dinner. After washing up and changing into a night robe he placed his case beside his bed and wrapped himself in the comforter.<br><br>This woman he hardly knew was to be his fiance the very next day. He was almost certain that his own mother and father would approve of the union. Of course, it would not be for the sake of class, but because it was not based on love!<br><br>He hadn't a clue what time it was when he fell asleep, though the knock on his door the next morning startled him easily. He arose from the bed and quickly moved to the door to open it. His hair was a bit messy, but otherwise Byron was looking as his usual self.<br><br>His face flushed a bit once he saw the woman at his door. "M-morning, Miss Carlise."</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>28-07-2009, 15:37:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I insist you call you Laureen, afterall, we'll be married before its even noon, I think it would be fine. There is a suit for you downstairs, and I've arranged a butler for you to help you dress and prepare, everything is in place. There are some papers you'll need to sign, giving you access to a bank account I've set up in your name where the monthly deposits will be made and I've arranged for you to interview three formal music instructors next week, do you have any questions for me?"<br><br>She entered the room and looked around frowning, it was after nine in the morning, the curtains should be been drawn by now, there were no plates meaning he'd yet to eat, well, she'd have a long time to teach him the proper way things are done.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>29-07-2009, 02:50:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">"Laureen then..." He sighed quietly and turned his head, trying to avoid seeming too captivated by her. "This is too much. I suppose I'll just sign away then..."<br><br>He stood fully before he and blushed lightly. "Do forgive me for my state of appearance...I don't usually sleep this late."<br><br>Byron caught himself watching her intently again. Granted she would be his wife soon enough, he was uncomfortable...It was not a gentlemanly thing: thinking such thoughts about a lady.</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>29-07-2009, 03:04:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Byron, I hope you don't take this the wrong way, but you look as though I might devour you, do I frighten you?"<br><br>Realizing she had come off extremely strong and brash, she hadn't taken his feelings into account, but she had no choice, she was desperate. Well they would be married within the next few hours and then she could worry about smoothing over ruffled feathers.&nbsp; Besides, if he couldn't converse with her, how will he survive the conversation with her parents when they announced the marriage? <br><br>"You should probably get dressed then, the butler will be here shortly, I'll meet you in the lobby?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>31-07-2009, 05:32:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">He blinked. Her wording could have been altered a bit so he wouldn't take it the wrong way...though he knew her intentions were not ill. His mind began to race. His wedding was not going to be a formal one. No ceremony, no bells, no church...he was literally signing his life over to her. <br><br>For a while he did not respond. His expression was blank, as if lost in thought. After a moment he blinked. Byron sat up slowly and tossed his shirt aside. "I suppose I'll see you then." <br><br>He continued to change with her in the room, his tone body was on open display after a few more moments, though his back was turned. Soon he disappeared behind the door of the hotel rest room with his change of clothes in hand.<br><br>"Don't let me keep you waiting. I'll be expecting the butler." </span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>31-07-2009, 15:34:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Byron, I know this is all horribly unfair of me, essentially it would seem I'm buying you and I really haven't taken your feelings into account. I'm desperate, but..."<br><br>She was cut off by a knock at the door<br><br>"That would be the butler, I'm going downstairs, take a few minutes and...if you feel you cant go through with this, well I cant force you to, just send the butler back down and I'll know your answer"<br><br>Walking out of the room, she shut the door quietly behind her as the butler entered. Down in the lobby, she could feel the anxiety fill her, what if he did change his mind? She'd have to start from scratch
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>31-07-2009, 20:47:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">He wasn't about to turn her down. He had come this far, he had accepted her hospitality, as well as her offer, and was indeed willing to go through with it according to his word. He sighed quietly and peered at his reflection in the mirror. How did he, of all people, catch the attention of such a woman? He didn't know if he should feel used or privileged to be given such an offer. All the same he would strive to make the best of his situation. <br><br>"Who knows..." He whispered quietly to himself. "Maybe some good can come of this in the end."</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>01-08-2009, 01:31:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She was a nervous wreck waiting to see if he'd go through with the wedding or not. Had she come off too strong? Did she scare him away? If he said no now, she'd be stuck, she'd have no choice but to marry....<br><br>The thoughts were cut short when she saw him coming down the stairs into the lobby. He cleaned up well, the butler did a good job getting him ready. There was a small office of the hotel that she'd paid to have use of and she'd hired a judge to marry them, her mother would likely faint and be confined to her bed for the next month when she found out that her daughter was not only married to a commoner, but without a religious ceremony to boot.<br><br>Walking over to him, she hoped he wouldn't shy away when she took his hand, they were going to be married, while it was in name only, some things were expected, like holding hands as they spoke vows. <br><br>"You do clean up nice, very handsome, are we ready then?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>01-08-2009, 05:51:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">He chuckled quietly as she came into view. Honestly, was the girl nervous? If anything he should be the nervous one, though he had come to accept the situation and what was to come in the future. It was a cold reality that he had never expected to face, and yet here he was, ready to embrace it.<br><br>"Thank you. You look beautiful, as always."<br><br>With a smile he took her hand and held it warmly. He felt no true connection with her, though he appreciated her kindness. There was no spark, no love! And here he was getting married to the girl.<br><br>"I'm ready as I'll ever be. Are you certain you want to go through with it?"</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>01-08-2009, 15:09:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Her heart was beating in her chest so hard she was certain it was going to explode. The judge spoke and they traded their vows, false vows, but vows just the same. While Laureen knew she was to have her grandmothers heirloom ring, she'd opted to buy two simple golden bands for them to wear. Part of her wanted to cry on the spot, she had just promised to love another, to put him above all others in her heart and attentions, and he was a stranger. Then the moment of truth, they were expected to kiss to seal their vows. Byron looked like a man being led to execution rather than a happy groom, but she couldn't blame him. <br><br>What she hadn't expected, what she never would have thought, was how soft and tender his lips were when they touched hers, and perhaps she held the kiss longer than the mock wedding would have required, but she felt a warmth throughout her as they kissed. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>01-08-2009, 17:06:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">He felt an urge to wrap her in his arms and hold her dearly, just as a husband should. Seeing as their vow had been sealed the moment their lips touched, he did just that. Byron's arms wrapped fully around her and drew her close to his chest. The kiss had been broken, her head would rest on his shoulder as his fingers danced in her hair.<br><em><br>"I'm going to do all I can to make this work...I promise."</em><br><br>There wasn't much he could do in terms of finances. He was limited to emotional help and nothing more, but as her husband he would be there for her through thick and thin. The young man felt a resolve burning within him. This woman was his wife. Stranger or not, he was going to be the best husband she could ask for!</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>01-08-2009, 20:56:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Wrapped in his arms, closing her eyes, Laureen for just a moment forgot that this man, her husband, was a relative stranger. It was familiar and comforting, and she believed his words. A slight tinge of guilt hit her again, he was going to do all he could to make this work, could she honestly say the same? <br><br>Breaking the embrace, she led him into the dining room of the hotel where she'd had a special meal prepared for them, they should at least have that much for their wedding day she thought.<br><br>Plates of rich foods were served and the place settings were as formal as she could arrange, idly she wondered if he knew which utensil was for what or where to place the napkin. Well part of the arrangement was that she would help him fit into her world, and the basics were essential.<br><br>"We didn't have much time to talk the other day, and I realize now we have, well a good long time, but perhaps we should start getting to know each other, yes? "
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>01-08-2009, 23:59:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">While food was indeed the last thing on his mind, Byron knew that he couldn't function without a bit in his stomach. Of course, etiquette was not something he was unfamiliar with. His parents did teach him basic table manners, though trivial things such as where forks and spoons went and what they were used for never crossed the minds of the middle class family. However, he did keep a napkin in his lap.<br><br>"We have quite a bit of time...what do you want to know?"<br><br>Byron took a seat and waited for her answer. Where could he possibly begin? Would she care to know his sad tale? He didn't want her sympathy.<br><br>All the same he couldn't help but look at her differently now that she was his wife. <em>His wife</em>...he was a husband now! </span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>02-08-2009, 15:16:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Well, I would like to know what you want for the future, what are you dreams, what do you want to do, to see ? Aside from your music, what do you enjoy? I guess, I want to know all about you"<br><br>Sitting there, she dreaded what would come later in the day, and wondered if she should leave him outside while she told her parents the news, it was going to be a fight like no other she'd ever had, perhaps she would have him with her, afterall, if he was going to be part of their family, which he now was, then he'd have to face them at some point.&nbsp; <br><br>"And, I want to thank you, the man my parents arranged for me to marry was not a kind man, he was cold and cruel, and had no trouble letting me know he was only marrying me so that he could have a wife of suitable breeding to give him a son"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>10-08-2009, 02:48:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">"My dreams...?" Byron chuckled quietly. He had never really had any dreams. Growing up under such harsh conditions had led him to be without hope or worry for what the future held. "I can't say I ever dreamed, dearest. Oh dear, that must sound so negative...I'm a fresh husband, and this is a joyous day!"<br><br>Byron paused and turned his head for a moment. "My future...I can't say I don't want a happy life together. I was always told how wonderful a relationship could be when the couple was wed. I do hope that's true!"<br><br>There was a certain positive look about him now. "I enjoy botany...working with roses especially. A spot of reading, a cup of tea by the fire...I enjoy simple things." <br><br>She was thanking him...thanking him for something that he would have done out of his own kindness. He wanted to stand and move to her side, snatch her up in his arms, and tell her he would be the most wonderful husband she could ever ask for. No...he couldn't break down into an emotional side with her now. He had to appear strong!<br><br>"Please, you've nothing to thank me for. You deserve a chance to marry a man that could make you happy..."</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>10-08-2009, 15:44:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Then I daresay you'll enjoy the gardens at the manor, and we have an excellent library, my father keeps many first edition books there"<br><br>He was a nice man she noticed, a nice man who she feared her father would try to destroy for marrying his daughter. Well, she'd handle it the best she could and hope he could do the same, it was too late now to change anything regardless.<br><br>"Is there anything you'd like to know about me? Before we go to face my parents. It wont be pleasant, I hope you're prepared for that, but there is nothing they can do, we're wed, they will have no choice but to accept it."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>11-08-2009, 02:11:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">Byron sighed quietly and pondered for a moment. "I'll be happy to linger on those books and gardens...assuming the man allows us to stay after we give him the big news."<br><br>A smile formed on his lips. Whatever the case, he would be happy with her. The hard times that had fallen on the compassionate young musician had made him strong. His kindness would only go so far, however, and indeed, as a child raised on the streets of poverty, he was willing to fight for what was his. </span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>11-08-2009, 03:23:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Allow us to stay? My father would never risk the embarrassment of throwing me out, no, he'll find smaller ways to....well that's not important right now"<br><br>She looked him over more carefully now, hard to believe this stranger was her husband. She had so much to teach him about what life would be like in this new world she'd dragged him into, oh she knew that it was selfish, dangling the coin in front of him, pointing out how he had nothing else so that he'd save her from her predicament, but desperate times called for equal measure.<br><br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>14-08-2009, 04:12:59</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">Byron frowned and peered down at the floor. His hands would rest on his temples while those sapphire eyes of his fell half-lidded. <br><br>"I'm not going to back down from this, you know. Regardless of what he plans to put me through. I just hope I can make a good son in law one day." Byron would chuckle and raise his head to smile in her direction. "Now then...what do you expect of me? What hopes do you have for the future?"</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>14-08-2009, 04:19:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh you needn't worry, its not you he'll feel the need to be angry with and I will handle him, don't let it concern you"<br><br>He asked a good question, but she wasn't sure she had the answer. What did she expect of him? Aside from not embarrassing her in public, she didn't have many expectations, though saying that to his face seemed a bit rude, afterall, this was their wedding day, she should try to be kind after what he'd agreed to.<br><br>"To be honest, I've never given much thought to my future, you see it was always planned out for me, where I would live, who I would marry, how many heirs I'd give that husband to carry on his name, I don't know what I want for the future, its the first time I believe I might have one"<br><br>She looked down at her food and found she had no appetite. The afternoon was winding down and she knew they would have to head back to her home before long. Her stomach filled with butterflies at the thought.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>19-08-2009, 22:26:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">He was also without an appetite. Worry and concern replaced all the other feelings in his stomach...granted the food looked wonderful, he would hate to try and force himself to eat it. <br><br>"Well, I envy you in some ways. At least your father and mother cared enough for you to try and do what they thought was the best. My father...I don't remember much of him, but I can say that the man that took his place made a much better parent."<br><br>Byron smiled warmly peered at his wife. "Tell me, how are you feeling? Just as nervous as I am?"</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>19-08-2009, 23:13:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Are you nervous? Well that's a silly question of course you are, and yes, I am, quite so. If you would prefer to wait outside while I tell him, I would understand, my father has quite the penchant for yelling when he's upset, and I wouldn't want you to be caught in that initial crossfire"<br><br>She put her napkin on the table and signaled to the waiter to take the plates away since it was obvious neither of them were in the mood to eat. What she would have loved right now was a glass of wine, but it was barely afternoon and only certain kinds of ladies drank that early in the day.<br><br>"Whenever you're ready, we can go"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Janus Belmont</strong> on <strong>23-08-2009, 03:29:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 0.7em;" class="bbc_size">"I'm ready as I'll ever be." <br><br>Byron stood slowly and made his way to her side. His hand took hers and drew her into a warm embrace. For some reason the young man felt as though he should hold her, comfort her, share her warmth with his own: just as a husband should. <br><br>"I am worried about your father, though. I can't help but feel like I would be nervous around him, given the situation. I'll be polite and formal, I promise."<br><br>There was no way he would be accepted right off. He would have to prove himself, but without money and a birthright there was hardly anything he could do. Silently, he began to pray.</span></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Crescendo (Janus and FLN826)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Daeva</strong> on <strong>23-08-2009, 04:22:11</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"My father will never respect you if you let him cower you, and he's quite good at doing that. Just know that his bark is much more vicious than the bite and you'll be fine. My carriage is outside"<br><br>They walked from the hotel into the carriage where they ended up at her home all too quickly. She knew her family would be home, idly she wondered if they'd gotten news of the wedding though she couldn't imagine how.<br><br>She took his arm as they walked into the house, she gave him an encouraging squeeze to help bolster him, and herself and couldn't stop biting at her lip out of nerves. <br><br>"My father would be in his study right about now, ready?"<br><br>Not waiting for an answer she led him through the hallway towards the study, knocking softly on the door. When she heard the terse words to enter, she knew he was working, he hated being disturbed while working.<br><br>"Father, I want to introduce you to someone, this is Byron Graves"<br><br>She waited several heartbeats while she gathered the courage to say the last part.<br><br>"My husband"
			</dd>
		</dl>
		<div id="footer" class="smalltext">
			
			<span class="smalltext" style="display: inline; visibility: visible; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?action=credits" title="Simple Machines Forum" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF 2.0.19</a> |
 <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org/about/smf/license.php" title="License" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF © 2021</a>, <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org" title="Simple Machines" target="_blank" class="new_win">Simple Machines</a>
			</span>
		</div>