Convincing the Tresterian King

[Alexandria Eveleigh- Demarais]

[CASSANDRA] They made a plan to meet within an hour, giving everyone ample time to prepare and for Nemeris to gather some of the "angry mob". Standing in the West wing of the castle, down the hall from Edward's extravagant "dungeon cell". She was wringing her hands in front of her nervously, wondering why she felt so distressed. It wasn't like she's ever had to lie to someone before...but maybe this was different. Because a lot was resting on her shoulders now to convince Edward that he was in danger. While she waited for more to arrive, fingers reached up to the gold clip in her hair and loosed it to allow the sides of her hair to fall; those curls a mess to give her more of a stressed and disheveled look...not that she wasn't actually stressed. She wasn't even wearing one of her usual dresses or jewelry.

[ORIN] He found his way to the West wing of the castle, ready to throw his anger around, without needing to pretend too much. As he found Cassandra, he approached her lightly, noticing the nervousness that she held. He moved behind her and whispered quietly, "Just remember, your incapable of finding love for yourself." He reminded her what Edward had said to her, hopefully helping to fuel her reason behind doing this. "You're okay..." He assured her, trying to calm her nerves.

[ALEXANDRIA] She stayed with Aric in that hour before they would act, nervous about so many things. As she suspected, Saelis was involved in the attack... Wanting to assassinate her, no doubt, as if the war was still on. She had started to fill Aric in on the whole war with Saelis and how Lord Aramis had tried forcing her into arranged marriages in attempt to take over her kingdom, probably so they could find what was in that vial and have control over it themselves. But that she had found her father's journal and started to uncover everything-- this land, the plans he had to move everyone to where they are now, in hopes that they would not be found by Saelis and be left alone. It was a way out of the arranged marriage and the tyranny. But not everyone had followed them and Saelis captured and tortured them to find out where they were. That's when the war happened.
She had only been able to give him a quick summary of what had happened, because they did not have a whole lot of time. But she felt he needed to know how severe all of this actually was.
When it was time to go, she quietly moved down the hallway, holding onto Aric's arm for balance as she was beginning to feel the affects of her wound getting to her from being on her feet and moving around too much.

[CASSANDRA] So absorbed in her own thoughts, she barely heard anyone step up behind her. She gasped, turning to find Orin there with his words of comfort. They certainly helped, but her nerves were still frayed. It was funny, she never seemed to get nervous like this, ever. At least his reminder of Edward's words had her grin mildly, and she almost rolled her eyes, jabbing him lightly in the shoulder. Drawing in a breath, she nodded slowly. "Thank you," Cassandra said, glancing down at her hands. "I'll get this done...I promise." Strangely, she felt it was the least she could do.

[ARIC] He only knew some of the story that had been public knowledge. He knew about the war and the devastation it had caused, but not all the details. Although Alexandria only had a short time to explain, she still shared with him a lot more than he had originally known, and was glad to sit patiently and quietly while she did so. Now, they just had to avoid another war, and this time she had him on her side. Holding her close and keeping her upright, the two of them would slowly make it towards the West corridor, spotting Cassandra and Orin already there. He could tell his cousin was nervous, but he had no doubt in his mind that she would succeed. Dark eyes turned sidelong to Alexandria, "This will all be over soon."

[ORIN] He laughed slightly Cassandra's jab and caught her hand, holding onto it for a brief moment. His blue green eyes studied her face as she promised she would get this done, and he just nodded, letting her hand go finally. "I know you will. Thank you for doing this."
Orin heard the footsteps in the distance and he glanced down the hall, seeing Alex and Aric walking towards them. "Are you ready?" He quietly asked Cassandra.

[ALEXANDRIA] Whatever Saelis was up to, she hoped it would not lead to another war. She wasn't sure she or Aralore would be able to handle such a thing. Nervously, she clutched to Aric's arm as they walked, turning her gaze to him as he assured her this would all be over soon. She could only hope. Her fingers squeezed Aric's arm and she forced a smile. "I just hope this will work." A nod was offered to Cassandra and Orin. They were all ready, other than the guards and servants, which they were slowly starting to filter in.

[CASSANDRA] Eyes instantly lifted to look at him when he ceased her hand; lips parting as though seeking words to say but she seemed distracted by him. Distracted by...something. When he released her hand, her gaze followed his before blinking, nodding at his words. She had this, she knew she did. "I think so," she told him when he asked whether she was ready. There came a forced smile when her cousin and Alexandria approaching, greeting them with a quick bow of her head.

[ARIC] They all had to tread carefully to avoid another war...but it also depended upon Saelis as well. They seemed hellbent on finding whatever was in that vial, even now, so he feared this would not be the last time. Especially after what Alexandria had told him. "It will," he assured her, turning his gaze to his cousin. "Whenever you're ready, Cassie." His eyes spoke volumes, telling her to be careful and good luck.


[ORIN] He noticed that she had parted her lips to speak, but nothing came out, but thought nothing more of it aside from her nerves and perhaps not knowing what to say in this moment. He took a step back, leaning against the wall so he would be out of the way and out of sight until it was his time to act. He'd offer Cassandra another smile of encouragement, though.

[ALEXANDRIA] She squeezed Aric's arm again as he assured her that it would all work out. But she could not ease the sick feeling that churned in her stomach. A deep breath was released from her lips before offering Cassandra a smile of reassurance, her own eyes giving that same look Aric gave her. Be careful and good luck.
Several more guards and servants appeared, knowing what the task was as Nemeris had explained it to them.

[CASSANDRA] With them all waiting on her, she figured she shouldn't delay this anymore. "Right," she breathed. "Give me a couple of minutes before sending the angry mob." At least she seemed mildly amused by that. A couple of minutes would help give her some time to explain to Edward what was happening. Drawing in a deep breath, she was no giving them a reassuring smile as fingers tousled up her hair a bit more. With one firm nod, she would turn and begin walking down the hallway. When she was about halfway, fingers curled into her skirt to hike it up so that she could run, pushing fear and desperation into her voice. "Edward!" His name would echo off the stone as she rushed to his chamber door. "Let me in!" she demanded of the guards stationed outside. Cassandra assumed that they had been filled in on what was about to happen, or at least know that she should be coming, so one stepped aside and allowed her entry, promptly shutting it behind her. "Edward!" she gasped, green eyes frantically looking around his lavish prison.

[EDWARD] The isolation was starting to get to him a bit, as he had no visitors or contact outside of his room. His last visit had been Aric, and that was a couple of days ago. He spent his time reading whatever he could find in the room, or think about what he could do to convince these people that he had no part in this attack. It was stupid, really, that they were keeping him locked up in here. So when, his door opened, and his cousin rushed in all disheveled, he glanced up from the corner of the room where he sat, and he quickly rose and went to her. "Cassandra, what's wrong? Has this place gone mad? They will not let me out of here..."

[CASSANDRA] She immediately rushed to him, small hands taking him by the shoulders as though she needed to be sure he was paying attention. There was fear in her eyes, a worry that she pretended to struggle with explaining. Gasping, she sought for breath from her short, abrupt sprint. "I...I don't know...Aric tried-" Pausing, she looked over her shoulder at the door as though expecting it to suddenly burst open. "He tried to get them to calm down. He was telling them that this wasn't your fault...but they don't believe him. They don't believe either of us." The key was to keep talking, to keep the panic on her features. "Last I heard...the queen's health was failing, and now some Aralorens blame you. They believe this was all your doing." Green eyes looked to him, pleading. "Please tell me you had nothing to do with any of this."

[EDWARD] His own hands were placed on Cassandra's shoulders, as he tried to help her calm down, his eyes searching her own as she explained what was happening. Aric had told him the queen had been injured, but he did not think it was as grave as Cassandra was explaining now. His brows furrowed and he took a step back from her when she questioned him. His tone growing angry. "Do you honestly think I would bring my wife and children to this place, if I had planned on starting a war, Cassandra?" He growled and shook his head. "I don't understand why they blame me. You were there... The guards who attacked us wouldn't obey my commands-- They were not Tresterian." He tried to explain himself to Cassandra, hoping that maybe she would fix this for him. Though, she said she and Aric had tried, and they were not listening. "So what am I supposed to do?"


[CASSANDRA] The strange thing was, even if they hadn't had the proof that Saelis was the true culprit, Cass may have believed her cousin in that moment. He was a good liar...but he wasn't lying right now. "Yes, I was there," she started to say. "And all the servants in that room heard you mention Alexandria's death." A pause for effect. "Twice. And rumors spread quickly." Appearing to now be desperate, searching for what to do, she ran a hand through her hair in frustration. "I don't know, Edward. I don't know. If you hadn't been so bloody selfish with this alliance in the first place! The original terms weren't enough for you...so now you have a castle full of people thinking you're nothing but a tyrant!" She was grinding her teeth, pacing a little back and forth. "And now you're going to take me and the rest of your family down with you!" If he wanted to be worried about something, perhaps he should think about his children, but she wouldn't outright use them as a reason in this lie.

[EDWARD] He pondered what Cassandra said about his mentioning the queen's death. He had asked the woman what if she died. He cursed under his breath and shook his head, laughing slightly. "My god, I wasn't serious... I just wanted to hear her say Aric would take over the kingdom in her place..." He shook his head and started to pace a little. "Selfish? How am I being selfish... I've given this place money and they've done nothing with it... Why should I continue doing so, without any sort of assurance?" He wasn't going to back down on that issue, it seemed. He needed something in return, and Aric gave him that solution.

[PRETEND ANGRY MOB] Outside Edward's room, the crowd of people were approaching down the hallway, yelling. The sound only getting louder as they approached the door. "Move aside and let us in!" One of them yelled to the guard. The guard shouted back, "Stand down.... I am under orders that this door does not open for anyone without the queen's or future king's orders... " Another shout, "The queen is dying! The king needs to pay for what he has done!" The doors were being rattled as if they were trying to break down the doors.

[CASSANDRA] She had to tone it down, she knew she had to. To get all high and mighty right now wasn't the best of ideas, despite the fact that she wanted to break his nose for how inconsiderate he really was. "And how would you know?" she questioned, even daring to step closer and get in his face. "This was the first time you ever bothered to set foot here. Edward, even when I first arrived, this kingdom was a hundred times worse off. But how would you know, right? You wouldn't know what a war torn country looked like. You've barely ridden into battle yourself." Okay, so...maybe she was starting to get back onto her high horse, but she just had to keep talking. "There are people here, families depending upon you and Tresteria...and you treat them like dirt. It takes more than just money to rebuild a home, cousin. It takes time and energy, and a faith that has been broken in them. You were supposed to restore that faith, to make them a worthy ally...because, Lord knows you need one right now!" Although, at the back of her mind, she was prepared for the fake onslaught on the other side of the doors, Cassandra still jumped and gasped at the vicious calls. Her heart pounded every time a fist slammed against the hard wood. She backed up quickly, as far away from the door as she possibly could. "Desperate people get vicious, Edward. You promised them their home back, only to threaten to take it away because their tired hands weren't working fast enough to your liking." Tears began to well up in her eyes, and the scary thing was, it wasn't entirely an act anymore. "I don't know why I bothered coming here...because now I'm trapped with a soulless bastard."

[EDWARD] She was beginning to fuel his anger further as she stepped on that high horse and tried to guilt him. It was true, Edward hadn't gone to battle much himself, he was too busy with other things. He had men and an army to do all of that for him.
The slamming of the doors startled him, though, and he heard the shouting voices from outside. He turned to Cassandra, watching as she backed away from the door with that fear and as she continued to curse him out for what he had done. But it was her last comment that sent him over the edge. He growled and moved towards her, raising a hand and slapping her across the face before he yelled. "You're NOT helping!!!"

[ORIN] As the mob continued to get louder and they banged on that door, he decided it was time for him to heighten the threat. He walked up to the door and started yelling. "Where is he!? Let me in! MOVE!!!" He shouted, pretending to move through the crowd, when in all actuality, they were moving out of his way to let him at the door. He shouted at the guard. "I am the queen's brother, and I demand you to let me in, or god help him, I will break this damn door down." He rattled the door trying to get the lock to budge, but nothing. So he started banging on it. "You damn coward!! Come out here and face us all! You did this!"

[CASSANDRA] Perhaps she had pushed him too far...but he infuriated her. Her emotions were all over the place, completely disgusted with him. Then he slapped her, taking her completely by surprise as she staggered and fell to her knees. Her cheek was already becoming warm and red from the harsh blow. A hand went to her face, the tears stinging at her eyes truly really now as those green eyes glared up at him. Were this any other moment in time, were she not trying to aid in this crazy façade, she may have very well tried to attack him. How fucking dare he strike her. Her jaws clenched, attention darting to the door. All Cass wanted to do was tell them to open the door, but that would give her away. "I hope you've made peace with yourself, cousin..." Was all she said, not bothering to get back up to her feet.

[ARIC] Nervous did not explain how he was feeling; not completely. The louder this fake mob got, the more he worried whether or not it was working, and the fact that he sent his cousin in there to spark the fire made the concern grow. Would Edward relent? Would he stand his ground because he was that stubborn? Trying not to be as concerned with that yet, he looked down at Alexandria in question, whispering, "Perhaps this has gone on for long enough?"

[ALEXANDRIA] She was fidgeting the louder and longer this was going on, so when Aric spoke what she was thinking, she quickly nodded, thankful they were on the same page. She clutched his arm again, feeling nervous to go in now, hoping Cassandra had gotten through to him. With a sigh, she began walking towards the room, not letting go of Aric. She raised her voice with authority, "Stop it now. Let me in." The crowd suddenly quieted down and the guard opened the door as he pretended to hold back the mob.

[ORIN] He would continue his tirades, even as everyone else calmed down and the door opened. "Don't go in there, he might finish what he tried to start!" He banged on the wall again, pretending to fight the guard as he was being held back.

[ALEXANDRIA] She looked to Orin and spoke again. "Orin.. Stop it." Once the door was open, she slowly stepped inside, holding onto Aric as if her strength depended on it. When she was inside, she glanced around the room, seeing Cassandra on the floor and Edward standing over her. She looked to Aric as if telling him to go to his cousin. She gathered up her strength to stand on her own and she looked at Edward, trying to hide the deep breath she drew in. "Your majesty... We need to talk."

[EDWARD] He heard Orin shouting through the door and he only laughed as he was called a coward. Shaking his head he looked to Cassandra, unsure of what to say or do at this point. But when the crowd suddenly silenced, he looked back to the door, taking a few steps back as that door opened and the queen appeared, looking quite worn and fragile. He stood there, hands resting on his hips as he regarded the queen. "Yes, it seems we do. You're not on your death bed?" Was all he could manage to say in the moment. "Tell your people to stand down... I did NOT try to kill you."

[ARIC] He was there at her side, supporting her for as long as she needed him to be. However, the moment the two set foot inside to see Cassandra on the ground, he was rushing towards her the moment Alexandria silently expressed him to. Kneeling down, he was drawing her to him and back up to her feet. He wanted to do more than talk to Edward now, but he bit his tongue. The queen had to assert her dominance in this manner, and if he said anything right now, it would only provoke his brother and draw the attention away from Alexandria. Ushering his cousin out into the hall and out of view, he whispered an apology and kissed her forehead. For all Edward knew (not that he would be paying that much attention) was that Aric sent her away with one of the guards. Then, the prince was immediately returning to Alexandria's side, mentally praying his brother did the right thing.

[CASSANDRA] Nearly sighing in relief as those doors opened, tear filled eyes fell upon Aric and the queen, instantly reaching out to her cousin when he came to her side. "I'm alright," she said, her voice barely audible while she climbed to her feet. There was already a welt growing on her cheek, but that was the worst of it. It would go away in a short while. Allowing him to leave her out in the hall, she gave him a look of warning to tread carefully before he was disappearing into the room again.

[ORIN] He nearly forgot that he was pretending. The anger that was raging inside of him boiled his blood and he wanted nothing more than to be in that room. So when the doors were already opening, he wasn't sure what to expect. At the sight of Aric and Cassandra, he was soon to rush to her side, taking her arm. He nodded to Aric, as if to say he would make sure she was alright. He ushered Cassandra down the hall to a bench and urged her to sit. Orin was sitting down with her and he gently placed a hand on her face where that welt was forming. "He hit you?" A frown pulled his lips downward and he brushed strands of her unruly hair out of her face. "I'm so sorry..."

[ALEXANDRIA] Her sapphire colored eyes glared at the king, and she said nothing until Aric was back at her side. "I am sorry if that displeases you I am not on my deathbed. That was in fact your plan, was it not?" She narrowed her eyes on him and shook her head. "Lucky for you, I was only injured. But word has spread around the kingdom that this was your doing... that you set this entire thing up to try and assassinate me and take Aralore. There is so much that points this to be true... So here is what is going to happen..." Her heart was racing and she felt light headed, hoping that what she was about to say would not cross a line and that she would convince him to step down. "I will tell my people to step down... that this was all a misunderstanding. That you had no intention of assassinating me. You will return to Tresteria. Our original alliance will remain, but nothing more. I will not be bullied by you or anyone else to give up my kingdom. Decline, and I will allow my people to continue to think you did this. And you will be moved to a less lavish prison..."

[EDWARD] He regarded the queen as she spoke, trying to take authority in this whole situation. It wasn't often that someone was giving him orders, and he did not like it. His jaw clenched the more Alexandria spoke. How many times did he have to confess that he did not plan any of this? But they wouldn't listen to him. When the queen finished speaking, he shook his head, not knowing what to say. For once, the man was at a loss for what to say. He turned away, scratching the back of his head in thought. It was either he backed down or he would be stuck here longer, until perhaps he could get word to Tresteria to send help. But that could take months. The queen and her kingdom would probably want to hold a trial and it would be his word, which no one seemingly believed, against all of theirs. He sighed, his gaze looking to Aric as if wondering what he had to say on the matter. Though, perhaps he already knew. Aric had feelings for this woman, and had made that quite obvious. Something he hadn't expected to see in his brother again, after how he had handled the passing of his wife.

[CASSANDRA] It stung, but it wasn't blindingly sore. If anything, it was embarrassing, humiliating even that she allowed Edward to strike her. Or maybe it was her fault, she provoked him too far; stuck a branch in the buzzing hornets nest. Wouldn't have been the first though, was it? As Aric handed her to Orin and he ushered her to a bench, she sat down with a sigh. The tears were still in her eyes but none were shed. She was more tired and angry than anything. There was only a light wince when he examined her cheek and green eyes fell to his bandaged face. At this rate, they were all going to be a sight for sore eyes. That thought should have made her laugh, but it didn't. Not today. Cass gently drew his hand away but held onto it as if it would further emphasize her own apology. "It's no one's fault but my own. I angered him more than I should have." It probably wasn't the first time she had, either nor the first time he lashed out like that. Attention flickered down the hall, at that particular door where the queen and her cousins currently were. "I just pray Alexandria can finish it."

[ARIC] He silently drew to Alexandria's side, remaining there with a hand at her back in case she needed support, but he'd do nothing more in case it made her look weaker in Edward's eyes. But truth be told, he was weakening himself. It didn't matter that he and the king butted heads like stubborn rams...he was still his brother, and Aric didn't want to see him harmed. Having been biting his tongue this entire time, forcing himself to, he saw the moment Edward wasn't sure and took a chance to speak. His voice was low and calm, holding no malice, while inside he was becoming desperate. "She can stop this, brother," he said. "She can clear your name, we can move on and continue this alliance. You will have a strong kingdom beside you that will be thankful to you and Tresteria's aide. And I can be your legacy here." It was true, Aric did have feelings for this woman, something he never thought would be possible after Maria. A true brother would see that, a true brother wouldn't maliciously take that away. A true king and man would do the right thing and understand that a grateful kingdom would be stronger for his own in the end. A stronger alliance.

[ORIN] He did not let go of her hand as she spoke, dismissing his apology, and he simply shook his head, "still does not give him the right to strike at a woman." He sighed, his eyes following hers to the door where his sister and Aric were. Luckily, if Edward tried to strike at Alexandria, Aric would be there to stop him. "She will..." she had to.

[ALEXANDRIA] She stared at Edward as he just stood there silently contemplating things, the silence lingering between them. So when Aric spoke up, she was thankful that he chimed in, further trying to coax Edward into taking the deal. Though her heart was racing, and she felt she was out of breath, she kept her unwavering composure, showing no sign of emotion on her features, other than slight annoyance. When Aric finished speaking, Alexandria gave him a look of appreciation before turning her attention back to Edward. "We initially signed this alliance on hope that Aralore will strive again and be able to support Tresteria, and I can assure you, we are all working hard to make that happen. What happens to Tresteria if their king is locked away in a foreign land?" She dared him to think about what his kingdom would be like if he was gone for a lot longer than he was expecting. "You gave your word when Aric and I signed that agreement. Agree to this and I will put an end to all of this, and you can be on your way home tonight."

[EDWARD] He watched his brother as he spoke, his own thoughts swirling in his head as he tried to figure out a way to take control over this situation. But when the queen spoke again, bringing up his kingdom without him, he thought on who he had left in charge and him taking over Tresteria, perhaps lying to everyone that he had died and he was the new king. Of course, he trusted the man to lead the kingdom, otherwise he would not have appointed him to stand in his absence. When he finally spoke, he said but one word, "No." He shook his head and started to pace a little, allowing a silence to linger as he thought carefully to himself, not realizing that they probably were thinking his answer was no to the arrangement. A moment longer and Edward was speaking again, "I will not be on my way home tonight..." He stopped pacing and faced the two, looking them over. He had seen the look in Aric's eyes as he tried to defend her, as he stood there with her now, his hand on her back. He shook his head again. "I want this alliance sealed before I leave, if I am going to keep my word and continue this... But you two will be married, so I can witness it and know that it is done." His hands were placed on his hips, his expression clearly showing that he was not kidding, and they best not test him by declining. It was his final offer.

[CASSANDRA] No, it didn't give him any right...and yet she was sitting there still stunned by it, nearly taking the blame for angering him to the point of needing to strike her. Green eyes blinked, finally freeing the tears from her eyes and she was quick to catch them as they trailed down her cheeks. Normally she was stronger willed than this, but there was something about all of this suddenly crashing down that was so overwhelming. It was why she feared for Alexandria and now Aric as well. There was more at stake than just Edward and Tresteria; Saelis might be on their doorstep. That meant they needed to rebuild, become stronger and possibly have Tresteria as their ally. Yet that was a whole other matter. "You should be there," she eventually said, letting her attention drift to the unbandaged side of his face while he was looking down the hall. "Don't let me keep you here." Granted, he would simply be waiting, like the entire group of servants were outside the thick doors. But Cassandra knew he was anxious- they all were.

[ARIC] His heart actually sank when Edward spoke that single word. It sank then beat rapidly, slowly filling him with that ever knowing rage because he certainly expected it to mean the worst. Just when his mouth opened, prepared to retaliate, his brother was talking once again...and completely taking him by surprise. It wasn't the worst thing. In his own way, Edward was relenting and agreeing, with but a small price. Something that was inevitably supposed to happen anyway just not so soon. That made Aric speechless and he quietly reeled his anger back in; blinking dark eyes finding their way to Alexandria with a surprised question on his face. "If...Her Majesty agrees-" he said. "Then so do I."

[ORIN] He wondered how long they would be in there, trying to convince Edward again not to back down on his agreement, and that he could not have Aralore for his own. At the sound of her voice, he turned his gaze back to her, noticing her brushing away her tears. Brows furrowed and he looked at her questioningly. "And do what?" He asked gently. There was nothing he could do at this point, it was never in his hands, to begin with. He sighed and shook his head. "I am fine right here." He lifted a hand to brush away a tear she had missed. And in an attempt to lighten her mood, he leaned in and whispered in a teasing tone. "I am sensing we may need to get you down to the armory again, later on?" A grin played upon his lips as he leaned away again, sitting straight, his eye studying her face, in hopes he could at least get her to smile, even if it was a slight one.

[ALEXANDRIA] Her own heart sank, leaving her with a sickened feeling in the pit of her stomach as Edward spoke just that one word. Her eyes widened, jaw clenched and she was squeezing Aric's hand as hard as she could to keep herself from lashing out at this man. But then came more, and his request. This time, her heart leaped up into her throat and she suddenly felt dizzy. A wedding? He wanted their wedding. So soon, something none of them had yet even thought about preparing for, because celebrating a wedding seemed the wrong thing to do amidst the rebuilding of the kingdom. Though it was this, or continue to argue with the king to continue to aid them.
Her gaze turned up to Aric and she caught his surprised and questioning gaze. He was already giving Edward his answer, and so she simply nodded, turning back to glance at Edward. "Alright..." Her fingers weaved into Aric's as she squeezed his hand again, not moving her glance from the king. Here they were, on the verge of a threatening potential war with Saelis, and they needed to throw a wedding to prove to the king that they were serious about this alliance.

[EDWARD] After the two agreed to his request, he nodded, seemingly pleased with this now, though still felt bitter towards the whole attack and being blamed for it. "Alright, then. It's settled. I will give you a couple of days and we should expect a wedding." He threw himself down into a chair and sighed, feeling relieved that his head wasn't about to be lopped off, so long as Alexandria held her part of the bargain. "Can I see my wife and kids now?" He hadn't seen them since the banquet, and he was sure they were concerned for him.

[CASSANDRA] Every moment that passed made her wonder if she hadn't done her part well enough. What if she had botched it up by letting her emotions get the best of her? What if Edward wasn't afraid or didn't believe that there were people out to cut off his pretty head? It was Orin's words that drew her from these dark thoughts, sending her heart into a strange flutter for but a few seconds with the brief, gentle touch at her cheek. It kept her silent until his whisper made her chuckle lowly after she attempted not to. It was hard not to remember her pathetic attempt at wielding a sword- and a wooden one at that, and that grin of hers was more embarrassed than anything. "It would be better than breaking more of your sister's lovely china."

[ARIC] He understood why there hadn't been an immediate wedding, something he was honestly surprised Edward had even agreed to. Aric couldn't help but wonder if it would have made things better, and yet, he selfishly knew that this budding relationship with Alexandria may not have turned out the way it had were they forced to marry without knowing a thing about each other. Aric held tightly to Alexandria's hand, unable to stop the corner of his mouth from curling up in a hidden smile despite how dire everything else was around them. The expression left his face when he turned towards Edward again, nodding his head in some form of thanks and respect. "Thank you, brother." He didn't sugarcoat it, didn't say anything more. As far as Eleesa and his nephews, that was Alexandria's call. She was, in fact, in charge, and he was happy to allow her to take the reins. This was her kingdom and she shined brightly when she allowed herself to.

[ORIN] A laugh escaped him when he saw her grinning and she commented on his sister's china. A grin of his own formed on his lips and he shook his head at her, nudging her shoulder with his own. Then he found himself glancing down the hallway again, hoping they would emerge from the room soon. Not because he did not wish to remain there with Cassandra, but just because he wanted to know the outcome of this all. Or if he would have to barge into that room, himself, and knock some sense into this man.

[ALEXANDRIA] Unlike Aric, she wore no emotion, she did not smile or show anything to Edward. A simple nod was given in response to his request of the wedding occurring in a couple of days. Though at his next question, Alexandria regarded him carefully, as if she were ponding her response. Then, she spoke, still with that authoritative tone in her voice. "Once I get the crowd away from your door. The door will no longer be locked or guarded by Araloren guards..." And with that, she turned away from him and headed for the door, pulling Aric along with her. The guard at the door opened it for them and the crowd outside started up again, questioning her and if they could kill the king now. She spoke loud enough so that the king would be able to hear her, even as the door shut. "The king is innocent of such crimes. Please return to your homes now." She brought a finger to her lips, as a sign for them all to keep quiet and she waved them off, her lips mouthing a 'thank you'. She pulled Aric away from the door and further down the hallway, her lips finally growing into a smile, though she quickly lifted her hands to hide behind them, a small laugh of relief escaping her then, and she turned to look at Aric. "We did it..."

[CASSANDRA] She wouldn't have blamed him either way, but she didn't voice it. Sitting there in silence also didn't bother her because just having a presence beside her helped calm her nerves. After the nudge and her smile slowly dissipated after a lingering moment, her attention drifted down the hall as well, just as the doors open. Cassandra shot to her feet, hearing Alexandria pretend to dismiss the crowd. A questionable look was given to Orin before she was rushing down the corridor to meet them, having not heard the queen's last words. "Well?" she asked with hope painted all over her face.

[ARIC] His mouth itched, wanting so badly to smile in pride at how well Alexandria was keeping it together, but he remained emotionless now, only until the doors closed behind them and the not-so-angry mob was making their way out of the hallway. He'd follow her until she paused, laughing in her relief. Taking both her hands between his own, he planted a kiss to her knuckles as he finally smiled again in relief. "Sorry for the final ultimatum." He was apologizing, but in his heart, he knew he wasn't truly sorry. Maybe he felt bad that it was coming at possibly the worst of times. As his cousin was rushing over in a flurry of skirts and auburn curls, his smile broadened just a little bit more despite how the welt on her pale face made him wish to leave one on Edward's. "She got him to agree," he answered simply.

[ORIN] He heard that door open and his sister and Aric exit, dismissing the crowd. That same questioning look was given to Cassandra, too, and he stood, following behind her, watching that happy expression that washed over Alexandria's features. That only meant it went well, he assumed. A sigh of relief escaped him as he stood behind Cassandra, waiting to hear the news. Aric's answer was simple, but held such importance. Finally, something went right.

[ALEXANDRIA] Her eyes looked into Aric's as he stood in front of her, taking her hands into his. She smiled at him until he apologize for the ultimatum. Her brows furrowed and she shook her head, "It was going to happen anyway..." She whispered. She wanted to kiss him then, but Cassandra and Orin were there, questioning what had happened. At Aric's answer, Alexandria smiled, though at the sight of Cassandra's face, she frowned slightly. "I am so sorry he hit you...." She let go of Aric and moved to Cassandra, wrapping her arms around her in an embrace.

[CASSANDRA] It was a wave of relief that washed over her when her cousin answered. That meant one problem was dealt with, even if they still needed to be careful and tiptoe around it all. Still, this was a step forward despite what they all recently found out. And she was glad. The Duchess, who had arrived in Aralore all those months ago that turned her nose up at every corner of this kingdom was now embracing its queen in happiness and thankfulness. She hugged Alexandria tightly, making sure not to hurt that injured side of hers, and felt a few more tears well up in her eyes. A shake of her head dismissed the woman's words about what Edward had done, because it was okay now. This would all be okay now.

[ARIC] Yes, the wedding was bound to happen, but even still, he wished he could give her more time. He couldn't help but worry that she still needed it, regardless of his own feelings. At least he could sigh in relief now, allowing Alexandria to go to his emotional cousin for a hug. Aric looked sidelong at Orin, giving him a firm nod in thanks, in hopeful understanding, in what Aric prayed could be a start of a less volatile relationship between them...especially because they were about to become brothers-in-law far sooner than expected. But he wasn't about to share that tidbit of information. Alexandria could break that news.

[ALEXANDRIA] She held Cassandra in her arms and whispered quietly into her ear. "I am forever in your debt for the help you have given me... us..." She slowly pulled away, pressing a kiss to Cassandra's cheek before taking another step back, glancing to her brother and then to Aric. A heavy sigh escaped her and she spoke evenly. "So, Edward's agreement comes with a small price..." She pushed strands of her hair from her face, tucking them behind her ear. She wasn't so much worried about Cassandra's reaction, but more so her brother's as she was about to spill their sudden news. "We will be getting married in a couple of days, before Edward leaves... He wishes to witness it before he goes home, knowing that the alliance has been sealed with our marriage."

[ORIN] A nod was given back to Aric, happy he could help and that things went well for them. His glance shifted to watch the queen and Cassandra's embrace, though when Alex pulled away and spoke of there being a price, his heart almost sank, nervous and worried about whatever this price was. He could only imagine. He sighed and mumbled under his breath, "of course there is." But he did not expect to hear of their quickly upcoming wedding. Brows furrowed and he looked between Aric and Alexandria questioning. He really wasn't sure what to say, and it was probably best that he bite his tongue, after everything that had just happened. But he really couldn't. Come on, this was Orin. "Seriously?" He laughed out loud. Deep down he knew this was going to happen--he just thought he'd have more time to get used to the idea. His sister marrying someone she did not even know. But he did bite his tongue then and he turned to Alexandria. "And you are alright with this?"

[ARIC] This time, Aric would have been truly thankful for Orin biting his tongue...somewhat. He knew the man had reservations, and may always have them, nor did Aric find any reason to blame him for it. Still, the sarcasm and laugh had his jaw clenching, more out of self-doubt. Was he really that terrible of a person? Was he that bad of a man for his sister to wed? Remaining quiet, he at least could count on Cassandra's reaction which would no doubt be a mix of surprise and annoyance, in a manner of speaking.

[CASSANDRA] Well, her cousin was right. The moment those words left the queen's lips, she was gasping, both in surprise and yes, annoyance...but not in the same way Orin was. "What?" she practically squeaked, looking swiftly between the two. "A few days isn't enough to plan a wedding!" Leave to Edward to botch that up. After planning the banquet (which shall not be named anymore), she was hoping Alexandria would allow her to help with wedding preparations. Now, this was absurd!

[ALEXANDRIA] Sapphire colored eyes narrowed as Orin laughed and questioned her. She wasn't sure how to respond, whether she should admit her feelings out loud, or keep them to herself and Aric at this time. There was so much she had on her shoulders, and the last thing she wanted was judgement from her brother. He knew about Eoin and how she had loved him, and just when he had gotten used to that idea, he was gone. Now, for her to tell him she loved Aric, as crazy as that sounded to her. She loved him. She knew Orin wouldn't understand, nor did she need him to. Alexandria nodded. "Yes, I am," she spoke simply, before she stepped over to where Aric was and took one of his hands into both of hers. He was to be her husband. And that suddenly made her stomach flutter.

[ORIN] It wasn't so much that he thought Aric was a terrible person, it was more that his sister had been nearly forced into arranged marriages before. He did not want her to be unhappy and in a loveless marriage to a complete stranger. He remembered the devastated look on her face when he gave her that necklace Eoin wore, that he had found, and Eoin no where to be found. And he vowed to protect her from ever having that look again. Though, why when she went to Aric and took his hands, did she have that look in her eyes, like she maybe had feelings for him? Brow arched in question, and he sighed, glancing to Cassandra as she was fussing over needing to plan the wedding. He was suddenly the only one who was cautious of this all? Arms folded over his chest and he cleared his throat, speaking gently, "Then I guess we all have some work to do... After what happened at the banquet, I think we need to double security and the number of guards..."

[ARIC] Were he had a sister, he may have understood Orin far more than he already did. Cassandra was close to him as any, but her fate had already been sealed and Aric had no say in whomever she was made to marry. It was different. Eyes found the queen when she approached him, dropping briefly to their entwined hands before rising up to meet her eyes. Now, he was allowed to share that smile he had been keen to hide as much as possible just moments ago. Maybe they were being forced to do this, but he at least didn't feel like he would have any regrets. He'd turn to Orin. "Perhaps you should be head of the guard." It was merely a suggestion because, naturally, it was ultimately Alexandria's decision. Yet, who better than to appoint the queen's brother, a man who would protect her with his own life, as the leader of her security?

[CASSANDRA] She watched Aric and Alexandria with adoring eyes. They were beautiful, weren't they? She could see it in the way they looked at each other that this union, which had once been a burden to them both, may very well be something more. Cassandra was biting down on her bottom lip to keep herself from saying something ridiculous; pressing her finger tips to her lips in thought. If she could help with the planning, she could at least make it a beautifully simple one. Neither of them appeared to care for much fanfare anyway. At Aric's suggestion, she turned to Orin with a curious raise of her brow. "Fancy title for one worthy of it, I might say." She too believed it was a good idea. They had to rethink a lot of things before the wedding, starting immediately.

[ALEXANDRIA] It was nice to see a smile on Aric's lips and it made her smile a bit more. Despite being forced to marry her, he genuinely looked happy about it. Her eyes finally turned to Orin at Aric's suggestion and she nodded, her hands moving to take Orin's, then. "Oh, that would be perfect for you, Orin! Please?" She smiled as Cassandra agreed and then she turned to her. "And if you could help with the arrangements and everything... again?" A quiet laugh escaped her, then. There was so much to do, and she wasn't sure she had a dress for such occasion, either.

[ORIN] He looked as if he was a bit hesitant, at first, when Aric made the suggestion, but as his sister reacted in agreement, and Cassandra was going on about it being a fancy title and him being worthy of it, he scratched the back of his head in thought. "A one-eyed head of guard?" He pointed to his bandaged eye and then shrugged his shoulders. He knew his eye hadn't been too badly damaged and would heal so long as he kept up with taking care of it. But it still worried him as he couldn't see out of it currently. He shook his head and sighed. "But if you would like for me to, then of course I will."

[CASSANDRA] Although inside she was jumping with excitement, she kept it reeled it when Alexandria requested her help again. She was tired, and this had been a rather eventful day in and of itself. The smile on her face broadened in response, "Of course." A couple days left little time, but it could be done. Then, the grin on her face faltered at Orin's reply. "One-eyed?" Green eyes narrowed at him almost accusingly. "Have you been keeping up with it like the healers have told you?" Last she heard when she visited he would be fine, but he was a stubborn mule, wasn't he. If he wasn't, she was in her right mind to smack him upside the head. What was it with men?

[ARIC] It seemed that Orin wasn't too keen on taking the position, but even Aric thought it would suit him well. He would know the ins and outs of the castle far better than anyone, and even have knowledge of the land. About to congratulate him on the promotion, as it seemed, Cassandra was already berating him over his injury. A brow rose in mild surprise...but then again, he shouldn't be. The woman had a knack for yelling at people, men especially. He got yelled at all of the time. Instead, he found himself chuckling quietly.

[ORIN] He blinked--his one eye, as Cassandra began yelling at him about keeping up with his injury. He had, as best as he could. Though, he imagined he'd still be bandaged up in a couple of days, which would give him a disadvantage in the job. He shrugged it off, as Alexandria seemed happy about the idea of it. "Yes, I have been keeping up with it." He nudged Cassandra lightly. "You have more important things to do now, than to bother me about my injury..." He spoke in a joking tone before turning to Alexandria and Aric. "I'll start by checking the ranks to make sure we don't have anyone suspicious..."

[ALEXANDRIA] She was happy Cassandra was so willing to help out with the preparations, because she honestly wasn't sure what to do or where to even start. Her gaze searched Orin as he spoke of him being one-eyed, and her smile slowly faded. She did not know the extent of his injury, and she still blamed herself for it. "It will heal, Orin... You will be okay." She took a step back, standing next to Aric again, and a sigh escaped her. The moment of brief happiness faded. "We cannot keep our guards down with planning this wedding... and ignore the fact that Saelis attacked us again. And we cannot let Edward get word of this either..."

[CASSANDRA] There was only a couple of people she seemed to genuinely like in this kingdom. It was partly her fault for trying to not and get to know more people, but for awhile, a lot looked at her with the same distrust they did her cousin. And, in ways, they had every right. But those she truly adored were currently standing with her, along with poor Henry who was bound to his bed from illness. She was going to worry about them. She swayed softly from the nudge, and it prompted a small smile. His words, however, made the smile grow a little bit more- yes, a wedding!

[ARIC] Truthfully, he was glad Orin accepted. While the thoughts of trust flitted around in his cousin's mind, they were in his as well. Even if Orin couldn't completely trust him, Aric felt like he could put his faith in him to keep them safe, or at the very least, Alexandria. Seeing the playful nudge, he could only hope and assume Orin would look out for Cassandra as well. His grin remained, gently drawing Alexandria against his side as a hand rubbed up and down her arm in comfort. "You have people to help with all of this. You need to make sure you're still resting and taking care of yourself."

[ALEXANDRIA] She smiled as Aric pulled her in against his side and she looked up at him as he spoke, assuring her that she had others to help her out. A slight nod was given in response, "speaking of... I need to sit or lay down... I'm in so much pain right now..." She leaned against Aric, using his weight to support her, now. In all honesty, before meeting with Edward, her pain had begun to flare up on her. She wouldn't admit, though, that perhaps she had pushed herself too much too soon, not wanting to be lectured again by Aric on what resting meant. Or to hear an I told you so They needed to get done what they had, and that was worth bearing the pain for. But she wasn't sure she could make the whole walk back to her chambers. She didn't want to ask, out of her stubbornness, but she knew she couldn't try to walk on her own for long. She looked back to Aric and frowned, speaking quietly, "do you think you could help me back?"

[ORIN] He wasn't a complete heartless man. Of course he would protect anyone that was in Aralore. Including Aric and Cassandra. Just as he had during the banquet attack. Though, Aric had been able to hold his own.
His gaze remained of his sister and Aric, and he noticed how his smile stayed on his face. It was perhaps the first time he'd seen the man smile this much. He noticed the way he held her and spoke to her, and it was different. And despite her being in pain, she looked happy, too. He couldn't interfere with that, nor did he want to. Orin just didn't want to see Alexandria hurt again. He sighed quietly and to himself before he spoke to Aric. "May I have a word with you, later? I am going to check on the army's ranks and the guards... I'll come find you later?"

[ARIC] He was surprised to hear that she wished to rest, but he wasn't going to say so. It made him glad because that mean she wasn't pushing herself too far like she probably instinctively wanted to. Aric was carefully looping her arm through his, when she requested his help, when Orin requested a word. "Of course," he replied. He'd meet up with him shortly after bring Alexandria to her room. Blinking, he only looked surprised for a split second before leaning over to press a kiss to Cassandra's brow. It hadn't been easy to face Edward like that, he knew, and she had the soft welt to prove it. Murmuring a gentle thank you, he moved to escort the queen down the corridor.

[CASSANDRA] Perhaps they should all get some rest after managing to pull this off. It had been a long day already, and the next few days were going to be even busier. When Alexandria spoke of lying down, she expected Aric to escort her back to her chambers. However, curiously, Orin wished to speak with her cousin after, and she couldn't help but wonder why. Green eyes flickered between the two before settling upon the queen, wishing her a good night before Aric was leading her away. "Should you need help with the Tresterians-" she started, turning to Orin. "If Aric is unable to, that is, perhaps I could be of some help?" In truth, she wasn't really sure if she'd be able to identify every face, but it would be a start.

[ALEXANDRIA] She quickly grabbed hold of Cassandra's hand with her free hand, and squeezed it gently as a gesture of appreciation, a smile offered to her before she clung to Aric's arm with both her hands and started to walk down the hall with him. With every step to her right leg, she got that shooting pain in her side where her wound was and at one point she had to stop, nearly falling against Aric. She winced in pain and took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, "I'm sorry..." She whispered, her eyes were filled with pain. "You were right... I should not have pushed myself... But it was necessary..."

[ORIN] A nod was offered to Aric in response, before he kissed his sister's forehead and watched the two leave. He turned to Cassandra, then, as she offered her his help. A slight smile curled up the corners of his lips and he nodded. "Of course, thank you.." He honestly would not know which guards were from Tresteria, or not, so he would need to rely on someone from there to go through those ranks. He stood there for a moment, awkwardly, unsure if she meant she would help him now, or if he'd seek her out if Aric could not help? He scratched the back of his head and spoke, finally. "I suppose I should go start now...? Are you coming, or would you like me to walk you back to your room?"