A real shoe in

[Atlas Marston]

The patriarch of the Marton's had already been in contact with the Hawthorne's about their need for another plow horse, and given the fact they were horse breeders, the Wheat farmers were hopeful that they would have what they needed. They would need another horse as Gus was getting older and not what he used to be, and so they'd need another horse soon to help pull the plow or else their sowing would take far longer then planned. The Marstons were all scrambling to get things ready for spring and hopeful that this harvest would be a good one. 

Atlas had been sent begrudgingly to go down to the Hawthorne's and get the new horse. Since he was constantly in the fields, he knew what they needed, but that didn't mean he didn't like having to leave the farm. If he had it his way, he'd stay there all the time. But no, Da thought it would be good for him to get out and go socialize despite the boys social anxiety and general hesitance around people even after coming back from the war. It made it all the more worse. Luckily for Lassie, he managed to snag a sister to come with him. One he knew had particularly good people skills, and he figured if she could seduce the knickers off Melena Hawthorne, then Octavia really was a charmer. Of course, Tavi was more interested in men then women, but still. She knew her way around people, and he didn't even if they'd known the Hawthornes for years. 

He glanced down at her as they walked down the dirt road, currently walking past the Donnely's farm. The two blondes stood out, with their signature Marston Hair. Believe it or not, Atlas actually worried about Tavi when she ran off to do gods knew what instead of actually working, and he hadn't heard a peep out of her through out the entire walk. "...So...How ya been?" He asked slowly. His hands were shoved in his pockets. She was the sister that Atlas was the least closest with despite the fact they were closer in age then the other siblings. Still, he worried about all his siblings, and as big brother number two, he had to look out for his younger sisters. But especially Tavi, who was the wild child. 

[Octavia Marston]

Bright blue eyes flickered up to a matching set, as Octavia Martson looked up at her brother. Neither of them had said anything since they'd left the farm over an hour ago. Something she was okay with. Atlas was always quiet, and she found it difficult to connect with him. Especially after the war where it seemed like all he wanted was to be left alone. She tried to keep her eyes on his, rather then letting them drift towards the scar that ran from the top of his left brow to the middle of his left cheek. One of the many he'd suffered from the war, but this was the most obvious one. She knew he was self conscious about it, so she let her eyes drift down to her toes.

She shrugged a shoulder. "Okay, I guess." She responded. Bored. That was the answer. Tavi was getting bored and that's usually when trouble started. She needed a change or she was going to do something really stupid with someone. She could feel it in her gut, and she had the inkling Da could sense it too, which was why he was getting on her about helping more. Atlas's small, timid request she go with him to the Hawthorne's had been something she'd agreed to because of that boredom. But also...

There was a chance she'd see a glimpse of another blonde haired boy... 

She could practically sense Atlas' awkwardness coming off of him in waves, and she wondered if he brought her along purely for the fact she could talk to people way easier. Even if they'd known the Hawthornes for years, Atlas still acted like he was meeting for them for the first time. 

"It's getting nicer out. Less cold." She commented on the weather, glancing up at him, and he nodded, eyes flickering back down to her for a second. "We could  use the warm air." He mumbled. "And...Your help this spring...ya know...." He added, averted his eyes. She arched a brow at him curiously. Was Lassie actually asking she not be lazy this spring? Or was he on a secret mission from Momma to ask such a thing. She narrowed her eyes in suspicion before the first signs of horses could be seen, and she realized they were already at the Hawthorne farm. 

Atlas carried the saddle they'd brought with them to ride the horse back. They were both dressed in their working clothes. Tavi was in a blue dress, well worn boots and an dirtied apron. Her hair was pulled back into a pony tail and held in place with a white ribbon, while Atlas had his dirtied white shirt sleeves rolled up to his elbows, his suspenders kept his pants up and he also wore well worn boots. The pair turned quietly up the Hawthorne drive, and already Octavia could see a head of red hair near a barn. Recognizing Melena Hawthorne right away, Tavi's eyes wandered around the property for a quick glance to see if their was a fairer head of hair nearby. 

Melena Hawthorne, Leith Hawthorne 

[Leith Hawthorne]

He had shed his coat hours ago despite the chill that still lingered in the morning air. Spring was swiftly approaching- he could feel it, and things were finally becoming green again. It would just mean a lot more work on the farm as many of their mares would be going into labor in roughly a couple of months. Perhaps that was why he was still here, staying home as much as he possibly could. Leith was worried about leaving Melena with all of this to deal with, but at the same time, how many of these beautiful beasts were going to be purchased? A war would help them tremendously...but that wasn't what anyone wanted. He most of all. The last one took their father away, although his sister still felt like he was going to return home.

Heaving another bundle of hay over the fence, he wiped the light bit of sweat from his brow with his forearm, further fixing one of his sleeves that had decided to roll back down. They were going to need more help around here, but struggling to pay workers was going to be an issue. His sister was stressing about it, which was why he was working almost nonstop to do what he could around here, unsure when he would be called to the guard.

"Nearly done, Mol," he soothed the horse walking beside him, reaching up to pat her neck in appreciation. Molly was pulling the cart of hay behind her, seeming a bit more lively today now that the weather was nicer. He led her around the perimeter, tossing bundles into each pen before movement along the drive caught his attention. Blue eyes alighted upon the blond pair and he found himself faltering in his steps for a moment.

Huh, been awhile since he saw a Marston around here...or well, at all. Sure, he'd spot one every now and then in town, it was nothing like how it had once been, when he and Octavia had been pretty close as kids. His father always said they were good people. His mouth twitched, as if he was ready to smile at a distant memory before his sister's voice grabbed his attention. She was asking that he bring a particular horse out from the barn and he was quickly recalling that she had mentioned the Marstons had purchased her for their farm.

"Alright, c'mon," he murmured to his equine companion, walking her back towards the barn. It wasn't terribly long after that he was heading towards Melena and the Marstons with Rosie, the lovely bay Shire horse in tow. He regarded the two with a polite smile, nodding in acknowledgement. "Good to see you, Atlas-" Those eyes flickered over to the man's sister. "Tav."

[Melena Hawthorne]

Melena had been bringing some firewood from the side of the barn towards the house when she had spotted Atlas and Octavia arriving. The axe was carefully set aside and the couple of logs that had been in her arms were dumped to the ground before she was wiping the front of her work dress. She was immediately smiling as she met their gazes, waving at them in greeting. Light green eyes sought for her brother near one of the pens, and she called out to him, "Leith, could you grab Rosie for me?" She hated to halt him from another task to do this, but she didn't want to leave their customers waiting. Even if they were customers the Hawthornes knew well.

The two families had always been friendly with each other, but nothing more ever came of it except for some short-term friendships. Sadly, after the first war, things got rocky and they all seemed to grow distant; every now and then having a simple conversation such as this one. And when she took over for her father, Mel just poured herself into the work.

The woman's pace picked up a little to meet them about halfway down the drive, turning so that they could walk and head for the house. She wasn't sure if they would want to stay and rest for a bit, or if they preferred to take the horse and go. "Happy to see both of you. It's...been quite awhile," she confessed gently. "How are things?" They were all struggling, but she felt like things were getting a little bit better ever since the meeting the Donnellys had set up. It was slow going, but it was still something.

As Leith brought the large draft horse over, she quietly thanked him before stroking the animal's neck. "This is Rosie. Your father chose a good one. She's still young but obedient and should suit you well." The mare was a reddish brown and stood at least 16 hands high with white feathering at her hooves and a white streak down her snout. She certainly looked strong and capable for farm work, that was certain.

[Atlas Marston]

Atlas pursed his lips as he looked at Octavia. She could narrow those icy colored blues at him all she wanted, he'd said what he'd said and they would really need her help. It wasn't just the Marston's that were struggling, everyone was and all the farms needed help. They'd all be helping each other thanks the meeting the Donnelly's had put on. Extra hands for everyone, but they would need all the able hands they could get. Including Tavi's. 

He glanced over to see Melena waving over to them as she made her towards them. Atlas raised his hand in greeting, a shy smile appearing on his face she met them, and they started towards the house. "Melena." He said nodding in greeting, holding her eyes for only a split second before he averted his gaze. Already feeling his anxiety starting to kick in, but luckily...

"It has been quite a while hasn't?" Octavia to the rescue. "We're doing okay, they could be better, but I think everyone's in the same boat." His sister said with a slight laugh. The farmers meeting was evidence enough that yes...Everyone was in the same boat. Atlas let his gaze wander towards the horse that Leith was now walking towards them, and he set the saddle down on the fence. Instantly his anxiety went a bit a way with the animal now present. He'd always done better with animals then people, and he held his hand out to Leith in greeting. "Leith," He said said quietly before he'd give his hand a firm shake and then before going to the opposite side of the horse Melena was on. Letting Rosie sniff his hand before he gently stroked the side of her neck. 

[Octavia Marston]

Octavia's eyes were on the man leading the horse before they actually looked at the horse. Trying to remember the last time she'd seen Leith, she vaguely thought it had been in the market, but couldn't remember. The way her heart skipped a beat a seeing him made her wonder how she could forget, but she had to remind herself that it was for the best.

She glanced at Melena and grinned at her as she stepped up to the horse, copying Atlas as she held her hand up for the animal to sniff it before she gently stroked her nose. "Hi Leith," She said with a small nod, and maybe a shyer smile but that usual flirty confidence she had was quickly back.

"She's gonna make Gus feel young again." She noted as she reached up to scratch the flat part between Rosie's eyes. "Perci and Daph are gonna love her." She said with the utmost confidence. Their younger sisters were animal lovers, specifically the youngest one. She could practically see Persephone running down the road on their way home and gushing once she saw her. "You're a pretty girl, Rosie." She murmured, her voice going up in octive a bit as she patted the horse on the nose, and then looked at Melena. "How have you guy's been doing? Da mentioned the farmer's meeting seemed promising, have things started to get into motion with that?" She asked curiously.

[Melena Hawthorne]

It was easy to tell that Atlas seemed a little...different, but she supposed the war had changed a lot of people, and not always in a good way. Of course, Melena had been quick to notice the man's scar but it did not seem to bother her. She kept eye contact for as long as was normal, speaking to them both in the usual pleasant manner.

She nodded at Octavia. "Of course, but we all find a way to manage and always will." The Aralorian people were strong, perhaps far stronger than many nations gave them credit for. They survived so much in such a short amount of time and yet still got back onto their feet. They would continue to improve- she had faith.

Her own thoughts ran a little parallel with Atlas'. Growing up with so many horses, she had always just felt more comfortable with them. Maybe because they didn't talk back, although they were not without their snarky personalities, that was for sure. However, with Bryon's disappearance, Mel learned to be a little more outgoing and friendly towards people. With the Marstons, though, it was always easy.

She laughed gently at the mention of Gus, watching how Rosie found the two blondes rather curious. The mare wasn't afraid in the least. "We've been alright, fortunately a little better off." There wasn't an ounce of conceitedness in her tone- it was just a fact because they weren't a land that had to be maintained as much. There was maintenance, of course, but others were suffering more. "Leith's been going off to do what he can to help here and the others, but-" She looked over to her brother with a proud smile. "He'll be joining the Queensguard very soon." Melena knew he wouldn't have said anything, so she did, because she was proud of him.

[Leith Hawthorne]

Leith shook the man's hand before handing over Rosie's reins if he wanted them. Not that he wasn't an outgoing kind of guy, but he stayed silent as his sister explained everything and exchanged the usual pleasantries. It almost felt kind of awkward...and yet not. The Marstons and Hawthornes had never truly been strangers, and as a boy, Leith often found himself running through their wheat fields. It was how he had gotten to know Octavia so well.

"Why would you wanna marry me for, anyhow?"
"So I can kiss you anytime I want."

He couldn't quite recall when that silliness had ended, but they had grown up, parted ways, and barely spoke a word to each other since. This was perhaps the first time in awhile, and he had only uttered her name. And not even fully.

After her greeting, he had watched her for a moment longer before bright eyes found Melena when she started to brag. Okay, no, it wasn't exactly bragging, but he didn't find the need for her to have to tell everyone they spoke to these days. He had been accepted into the guard, yes, but he hadn't been summoned yet. Who knows when that would be, too. "It could still be awhile," he added lightly. Mel playfully nudged him.

[Atlas Marston]

Atlas gently stroked Rosie’s neck, falling into the comfortable habit with the animal. It provided something to ground himself on so he wasn’t so anxious, and he murmured very quietly to her while Melena spoke to Tavi. He glanced his bright blues up and and leaned over a bit to look at the redhead from around the horse, giving his head a small nod in understanding. With everyone helping out they were all better off. “That’s good to hear.” He spoke quietly. Despite his over all shyness towards everyone, Atlas got his rare moments of bravery, even if it was only a few words.

He glanced over at Leith then at the news he’d be joining the Queensguard. Being a former military man himself, Atlas pursed his lips, glancing down at the muck on his boots. He hadn’t quite been in the Queensgaurd, but he’d been a Ranger. He’d certainly seen his fair share of combat, evident by the scar on his face and the rest of his body. Still, Atlas had left for good reason, and if Leith wanted to do his part, Atlas wouldn’t be the one to stop him.

He raised his head, catching the other man’s eye for a moment, even though his head was still facing down. “If..i-if you uhm-” He began to speak, but his stutter was starting to show itself. “W-whant. Help,” He took a deep breath, reminding himself this was Leith, and not some stranger. “I c-could give you s-some pointers.” He offered him. Maybe then, Leith wouldn’t face the same fate Atlas had in getting taken by the enemy. The more knowledge Leith had, the better he’d be off. Even as a queen’s guard.

[Octavia Marston]

Octavia felt the corners of her mouth curl up into a warm smile as Melena spoke. “You’re right about that.” She mused. The Aralorians were certainly hearty people that could handle just about anything thrown at them. Atlas was a prime example of the sort of strength, even their quieter citizens could possess. She glanced over at her brother for a brief moment, noting the way he was quietly speaking to the horse and petting her neck.

Her bright, nearly icy blues went back to Melena, nodding to what she was saying about the farmers helping out, when she suddenly went still at her next bit of news. Octavia felt what felt like an ice cold tendril going down her spine, as her eyes quickly jumped over to Leith. She was in shock for a brief moment, her face had taken on a blank expression, but her eyes spoke a different story. There was a mix of pride, excitement, realization, and a mix of other confusing emotions.

Namely she felt like someone was gripping her heart, threatening to rip it out of her chest. This was what he’d always wanted right? To go off and be a knight? To protect Aralore with his own sword when he was old enough? Tavi hadn’t realized the time had come for Leith. She was very happy for him, but she was also suddenly sad. Ocatvia had accepted at a certain age that Leith and her would never be. Despite how much she might have wanted it, and that silly little promise they’d made as children, the reality of things were, Tavi didn’t deserve Leith. Not with the reputation she had. He was better off without her. Still, knowing this, she always took comfort in the off chance of possibly seeing him out and about. Just a glimpse. Just a small peak at how he was doing was enough for her.

As a Queensguard? You’re leaving me… The thought made her angry suddenly, mostly over the fact she had no right to think it. Atlas’s stutter and offer of helping Leith out drew her back to the real word, and she blinked herself back into existence. Letting a small sigh out to recompose herself. “That’s great! Congratulations.” She finally managed to say, her eyes were on Leith as she said it. "Queen Alexandria will be lucky to have you." Hoping she could convey to him just how happy she was for him, without giving anything else away.

She’d hold his eyes contact for a few seconds before looking at Atlas. “Lassie can certainly give you some pointers if you need it, or want to practice your sparring.” She nudged Atlas gently, seeing his cheeks take a slight pink hue as he averted his eyes. “If you w-want of course.” He mumbled.

[Leith Hawthorne]

It wasn't hard to notice how skittish Atlas appeared to be, but as always, his sister still smiled and acted like nothing was wrong. Leith, on the other hand, couldn't help but be curious about it. Not that he was going to stare or ask the man about it, but...he seemed different since the war. It was sort of sad, and he wanted to help.

Leith's need to join the military in some fashion didn't stem from wanting to find glory or to protect his country (although he would regardless). It was to protect his own family and their legacy, to keep this farm running because it was all they had. Melena wasn't jumping up to marry anytime soon, and it was on him to take care of her, to ensure that she was healthy and safe despite how many times she's told him not to worry about her. This would be his contribution, his way to make money and keep things going.

And with rumors of another war, well, maybe he wanted to be a bit more prepared. Even if the thought secretly frightened him.

When Octavia spoke, his attention settled back on her and he noted the flicker of something in her eyes before she was trying to pass it off as nothing. He'd like to think he knew her better than this, that he could see through her a bit more than others, but maybe he was simply imagining things. "Thank you," was all he thought to tell her, studying her for the briefest of moments.

Atlas was struggling to get words out and that silent concern for him grew a little more, although he was good at keeping it from his face. Instead, he met the man's eyes and offered a genuine grin. "That would be great, honestly," he told him without skipping a beat. "I don't think I'm as prepared as I should be." It was a somewhat embarrassing confession, but his father wasn't around to teach him anymore...

[Octavia Marston]

A small, playful swat was given to Tavi as she nudged Atlas. He glanced at her with slightly narrowed eyes and she just grinned wider as she helped volunteer him. He was offering wasn’t he? What sort of sister would she be if she didn’t try and help him get across his meaning? She knew there was a part of him that wasn’t all stutter and shy, timid boy. There was a part of Atlas that had an element once he was in it, where it was clear he had confidence. She knew because she’d seen it, and it was when he had a sword or a bow in his hand.

She’d caught him once, practicing in the barn. His movements had almost seemed graceful. Like a dance, before he’d swung a killing blow at a hay bale. A startling calm was around him when he drew back his bow, and he didn’t even half to close an eye to line up his target. He’d done it with both eyes open. He never spoke about his time in the war, despite how much Octavia wanted to ask him. She was comforted by the fact that Leith would be in good hands. She had no doubt about that.

She watched as Atlas actually smiled then, and she practically held her breath. Her eyes darting to Leith, wondering if he knew that Atlas hadn’t smiled like that in months and it was for him. She almost didn’t want to ruin it, and waited patiently. “Not a problem. Everyone’s gotta start somewhere.” Atlas told him, and Octavia’s grin soon lit up her face. Lassie was being brave. She knew it, she could feel it in her bones. “You’ll be in excellent hands.” She finally chimed in, unable to keep silent anymore. “You boys can play with your swords, and us gals can do the real work, yeah?” She grinned, glancing over at Melena. Atlas seemed to be taken aback by her answer, considering every Martson knew, Tavi was allergic to work. “Do you eve-” “Course I do.” She interrupted her brother. And if she didn’t know, she’d learn.

Something was coming over Tavi at knowing Leith was going away. Years of possible regret staring her in the face, and if he was going off, she didn’t want today to be the last time she saw him. Atlas had to train him and train him well, so he could come back in one piece.

[Leith Hawthorne]

He did well here on their farm, with the horses, but Leith always felt like it wasn't his place. Melena fit right in, taking after their father when it came to the animals, but he somehow knew this wasn't where he was going to remain. Even with Father gone, something told him he wouldn't always be here, and he didn't quite understand why.

So, perhaps it was in service to the crown in other ways. After all, Bryon had been the former king's advisor. Not that Leith thought he would ever want to be in that position, but the Queensguard? That made a little more sense.

"Well, I appreciate it. I really do," he told Atlas. In all honesty, training with a formidable soldier would probably make him feel a bit more at ease.

'You boys can play with your swords, and us gals can do the real work, yeah?'

He heard Melena chuckle as his attention flickered between the siblings. Eventually, he laughed. It would appear that many people outside of the Marston family knew Octavia was allergic to work. Same with Keiran Donnelly.

It's a wonder those two hadn't just married yet and had a million need children.

The humor washed away from his face instantly, and he pretended to be occupied with the horse in order to hide the sudden frown. He didn't know why that thought just popped into his head.

"Would you like to come in for tea or were you on your way?" He heard his sister say and he nearly grimaced. "I apologize- I should have asked from the start." In truth, they didn't really get many visitors here anymore, and both were always so preoccupied with the horses.

He kind of just wanted to get back to work now.

[Atlas Marston]

Atlas had turned his attention to Melena once the laughter had died down. Apparently, the idea of Octavia willingly working was a rather humorous notion, but some part of him hoped that she was actually being serious and was going to step up. The Farm needed her, as did the other farms. “Unfortunately Da n-needs us home, b-but another time?” He suggested. As much as the idea of sitting around with tea was appealing, there was work to be done, and Atlas was eager to get Rosie acclimated with the Marston farm.

His eyes flickered back over to Leith then. “Come by the farm whenever you want those pointers, or I can come out here.” He told him. Offering up options. If Leith was serious, he believed he’d put the effort in. Atlas didn’t think the other man would waste his time.

[Octavia Marston]

Octavia did well to keep the feeling of embarrassment off her face. Normally, words of her laziness didn’t bother her. But it was different with the Hawthorne's, namely a particular male one that got under her skin. There she went wondering what Leith thought… It always came back around to him didn’t it? The only opinion that mattered, and for a brief moment, Tavi wanted to be spiteful and to show she could work. And if she could work, then maybe she could guilt Kieran Donnelly into working so he wouldn’t be outdone by her.

Now that was almost laughable.

With the decline of tea, something she was a bit disappointed about, but she knew Atlas didn’t want to stall any longer or overstay their welcome, she prepared herself for their departure. Looking between her brother and Leith as Atlas told him where to find him for their training lessons.

Her stomach flipped at the idea of Leith coming to the Marston farm. Already imagining her mother trying to feed him, and then there was her little sisters. Jealousy suddenly filled her veins at the thought of Daphne or Persephone suddenly taking an interest in Leith. He was handsome, hard-working… They would certainly make the better, more ideal wife. And Tavi?

She was a harlot that had no right to be jealous.

“Are you ready to go?” Atlas’s voice suddenly brought her out of the daze she’d found herself in. Not realizing she was practically glaring at a fence post. She gave a nod and then turned a smile over at Melena. “Thank you again,” She told the other woman. Remembering her manners. Atlas then would shake each Hawthorne's hand, giving them that small, signature Lassie smile before he mounted Rosie and then was reaching down to help Tavi up. Offering her his hand, she took a step forward, her eyes wandered for a moment towards Leith, where they lingered before she grasped her brother’s hand and placed her foot in the stirrup. Atlas reached down and grabbed her arm, helping haul her up until she was perched behind him.