Post by Aric Demarais on Feb 22, 2009 21:58:46 GMT -5
ALEXANDRIA:
Sleep had become a luxury that Alexandria rarely got to see. She kept herself up all night worrying over every little thing, and in return, she looked like hell. Her eyes had dark circles under them and she looked tired and worn out.
It was late and Alexandria tried to sleep, but only tossed and turned. She got up and dressed herself again, her candle was removed from her bedside table and she left her room, wandering down the halls of the castle. Her guards knew better than to force her to stay within her room. If she hadn't come out of her room, it would only concern them that something had happened to her.
Her and Aric had only spoken about business. It left him a mystery to her. She still had yet to learn anything about him and who he was... But she had noticed he was out working with her people in rebuilding. That left somewhat of an impression on her. Most royals she knew just sat back and let their people do all the work. She had little hope that Aric would be different.
With a heavy sigh, she walked through the wing that Aric resided in. She stopped at his door but did not knock. She did not wish to wake him if he was asleep. So she just paced back and forth in front of his door, thinking of something. An excuse, something she could do to get him to have some kind of conversation with her. But in the end, she could not justify a reason to interrupt whatever it was he was doing in this moment. There was a vase of flowers on a table in the hall. She plucked a single white lily flower from it and set it down on the floor in front of his door. A gesture of thanking him for all he had done so far. And then slowly, she started to walk away. But as she did, the hem of her dress was caught under her foot and she tripped, suddenly collapsing to the floor.
ARIC:
Aric slept when he got the chance, when he was so desperately tired from the labor of rebuilding that his eyes closed involuntarily on their own. Usually, it kept the nightmares away, ones that continuously haunted him ever since he came to Avalendor. It was nothing but his guilt...that guilt he somehow pinned upon himself when he knew deep down, somewhere, that he shouldn't be. Perhaps it was why he agreed to this marriage, agreed to help restore this kingdom to its beauty of before. It kept him occupied...kept him from falling into the bad habits he had found himself in previously. Despite the many times he argued with his brother, he knew Edward was right...about everything. The way he reacted to his wife's death...the foolish things he had done. It all swept through his mind now in a bundle of chaos, echoing loudly until it was unbearable, beginning to wake him in a writhing fit. Sweat beaded along his forehead and chest, silken sheets clinging to him like an extra skin...before he woke up with a heavy gasp, sitting up straight in his bed to stare wide-eyed into the shadows of his room; a look of fear crossing his features that most would deem impossible for him. He tried to control his breathing.
Then he heard something right outside his door, a soft thud and nothing else. It alarmed him, naturally, seeming to startle him a little more...but he'd climb from his bed, slipping on a thin tunic over his bare chest to rush to the door and open it carefully. He almost stepped upon the lily rested there on the floor at his door, which caught his eyes first...until lingering further into the hall, he noticed the queen there on the floor, having just recently fallen.
Thick brows furrowed together as he strode forward, wrapping big hands around her slender arms gently to aid her to her feet. "Are you alright?" he questioned, though it wasn't the first question that had come to mind. He was wondering what she was doing outside his door this time of night.
ALEXANDRIA:
She froze in a moment of panic when she heard the door open from behind her and heard his hurried footsteps bring him closer towards her. She flinched at his touch and came to stand again before him. A silent nod was given in response. "Aye... I am fine. Thank you... " She brushed herself off and stood there a moment, uncertain of what to say or do at this instant. She knew he was probably wondering what she was doing there. Her bottom lip was pulled inward and she bit down upon it lightly. "I'm sorry if I woke you... I was just... Wandering around the castle because I couldn't sleep. Tripped over my dress..." She raised a hand to comb back strands of hair that were fallen out of place from her long braid she wore. For a moment she hesitated. "How are you? Are you comfortable enough?" She slowly wrapped her arms around herself, blocking out the night's chill. "Have the servants and guards been helping you find everything alright?" Her sapphire-colored eyes were lowered towards the floor as she spoke, as if she were afraid to look at him for some reason. She felt embarrassed, really... For the mere fact that he was marrying her as a favor, and it just didn't settle well with her.
ARIC:
Didn't settle very well with him either. For a time he simply thought himself a pawn, played in his brother's game to get what he wanted...but it wasn't so much that. Edward wasn't as power-hungry as some might think- he was just being fair...as fair as you could be in such a situation. This kept the alliance strong, something that both kingdoms would benefit from. Aric had to keep telling himself that.
He drew his hands away when she stood to her full height, letting arms dangle at his sides as he looked to her with that small, confused expression. This time around, he was able to look at her...if only because she wasn't looking back at him with those sad eyes. He tried to study her features, to try and understand her true feelings over this all, but her lowered gaze made it difficult and he wound up turning his attention towards the nearest window instead. Then came the questions that he had to partially lie about. That was the difficult thing...Aric didn't have anyone to speak to in confidence, so the memories he left behind in Tresteria were just following him and building up until he wouldn't be able to contain it any longer.
"No, you didn't wake me," he replied briefly after her light explanation. A small, drawn in breath prepared him for the following questions. He'd nod to make himself seem less gloomy and more sincere, "I'm well. They have been very helpful, thank you." Gaze found her again and hesitated before he spoke, trying an attempt at some conversation. "Have you...been well?" There was a slight arch of a single brow, a soft glint of a dare in those dark eyes for her to try and argue that she didn't look at all tired. He could see at least that.
ALEXANDRIA:
Constantly, Alexandria was telling herself that this was completely the right thing to do, this agreement. Not only was Tresteria their strongest and largest island ally, but having such a close alliance with them due to this marriage arrangement, there would be security in Elysium's protection and trade. This was for the best. Lysander had spoken with her and had been the first to tell her she was strong and made the right decision despite its difficulty to cope with. A small smile was forced upon her lips as Aric assured her that he was doing well. She responded with a nod, happy to hear that he was alright. Though, she couldn't help but wonder if he actually told the truth. She could only imagine how he felt...being a stranger in a new place with no one he knew, save for his own guards. She sighed after he asked his question. What could she say? Tell him the truth or lie? She hesitated in her answer, one of her hands raising to tuck a strand of dark hair behind her ear. "I... am fine, I suppose... Just." She paused, trying to gather up her words. "Just... have a lot on my mind lately... A lot of planning and work to do... " She finally glanced up to him, her eyes studying his face for a brief moment. "I wanted to thank you for all the work you've done so far... And helping my people with rebuilding... I uhm... Really appreciate that." She forced a small smile to him and nodded. "You do not have to do that..."
ARIC:
There was a slight narrowing of his eyes in contemplation as she began to speak, and he could see more of the tiredness on her gentle features. It was never easy to be in charge of everything. Most thought that you had it easy if you wore a crown...in some cases, that really was not true. Alexandria was a prime example of that. It was clear that she was wearing herself out, even though she hadn't physically been out there helping to rebuild...She was doing everything else, which could prove to be just as stressful.
He nodded lightly again, allowing his attention to fall down to the floor as his arms crossed over his chest; a comfortable stance he usually fell into when he was unsure or nervous. "You will be of no help if you wear yourself too thin," he replied with words that might have sounded rude if not for the soft tone of his voice, the sincerity of it. A corner of his mouth twitched slightly, hinting and coming close to what might have been a smile, but not quite yet. "I like to. Keeps me occupied," he answered honestly to her last statement. Truthfully, he wouldn't know what else to do with himself. He did feel out of place here, thinking people were watching him and waiting for him to make a mistake, take over Elysium...something they wouldn't like. When he was at work, he could ignore the eyes burning into his back, hoping that his efforts would eventually prove he wasn't wishing to achieve what they believed. He was simply trying to find his place now. He was genuinely grateful for those who looked to him in gratitude...not for the money and support his brother was offering, but for the simple fact that he was just out there among them, helping.
ALEXANDRIA:
Alexandria knew that being as tired and weak as she was would not help out any, but she couldn't help it. A nod was given to him in response.
Awkwardly, she stood there in silence. Would this continue between them? They were to marry soon after the kingdom was restored.. And still, they knew nothing of each other. She turned slightly, as if she'd just walk away without saying anything. But then she stopped and turned back to him. "... Has anyone shown you around the castle yet? Would you like to take a walk with me? I can show you around." The castle was quite large, and although some of it had been destroyed by the war, a lot of it was still left intact and untouched. She sighed softly. "I know it's late so you do not have to. I just thought... " She stopped herself and shrugged her shoulders, forcing a small smile. "I will leave you alone. Goodnight, my lord..."
ARIC:
She knew that she was slowly hurting herself, but would she stop and take a rest every once in a while like she should? Aric found himself making a silent vow to assure that she took it easier, to perhaps check up on her instead of letting this awkward silence linger on, which would only worsen after their marriage...something that felt so unreal but would surely be real soon enough.
He was hesitant once more in answering, all this conversing with another and interacting somehow feeling so foreign to him, he was indeed about to answer her offer...but she already gave up. He was beginning to realize that they were far too much alike in that aspect, and he was hating himself for suddenly realizing what it must be like for the other person when he acted this way. It was rather rude in a way.
Mouth shut after lingering open for a brief moment with his ready answer, as he was ready to take a step forward and try to push back just a little bit of this awkwardness. It was honestly unbearable at times, and perhaps frustrating, too. Aric would take a step forward and gently grasp her arm once more to draw her to his side, facing down the hall. Then he'd let her go before beginning to slowly walk forward; hands clasped behind his back.
There, he made an attempt...and it only seemed to make things feel more awkward. He attempted to talk once more, "I haven't had a chance to see much of the castle yet. Been outside mostly."
ALEXANDRIA:
She felt his hand grasp her arm again and she turned her face to look at him. When he was walking by her side, she forced a faint smile and began walking down the hall again in the direction she had come from. There was much she could show him, and maybe that would shake free some of this awkwardness that lingered between them. It almost hurt how awkward this all was. It was like she was trapped in a dream that she could not wake up from. She nodded at his answer and glanced around the castle hall they were in. What could she show him first? "Well, you already know where your chambers and office quarters are. And where mine are, as well." They reached the connection point of the two wings where his living quarters were and where her's were. She motioned down the hall in the direction where her room and office were. As she walked along with him, she was silent. Her mind ran with various thoughts. What would happen after they married? What she should say in this moment. She did not know any of those answers. With a light clear of her throat, she spoke silently, pointing towards another corridor. "These are the living quarters of the protectorate council members." She pointed to a corridor across from that one. "And there is where the knights will stay when we have them." She lead him down the stairs that brought them to the second floor. "The second floor is where the ballroom, banquet hall and library are. Do you like to read?" She lead him towards where the large room was and stopped at the door, opening it slowly. The room was dark and she lifted her candle up to find the other candles by the door. Carefully, she lit them up and it brightened the room only slightly. She turned towards Aric and offered him a warm smile. "It is a most impressive room, I think..."
ARIC:
He initiated it...and now didn't know what else to do. The awkward feeling was so strong, so tight in the air around them that he had no doubt she felt it as well. It was perhaps the inevitable marriage in the close future that made it all almost unbearable at times. Two people knowing nothing of each other were forced to wed...And this was to be his home now, a place where he felt uncomfortable yet sometimes not. Perhaps it was the desperation and devastation he related to, that made him feel more at ease...as sad as that was. At least there was something holding him here and keeping him from running away from it all, like he had wanted to do so many times in Tresteria. He knew he couldn't- he wasn't a child anymore. Those fairytales and legends he read as a boy withered away to the back of his mind, taking with them the light that once burned so brightly inside him. He tried so hard to pay attention and seem like he was interested in what she was showing him...And it wasn't that he was not interested, but it was only making him think more about what was to come. He'd nod and look to her in acknowledgment when it seemed necessary, until he was sucked out of his thoughts when they stepped into the library; the gentle illumination of the candles dancing shadows across the giant shelves and the tomes they held. Eyes squinted with a bit of mirth, glinting with the memories of the library at home. "Indeed it is..." came his muttered reply as he moved forward, craning his neck back just a little to gaze up at the ceiling and the neverending rows of books. "More impressive than my own back home," he found himself adding without even realizing it too much. Feet carried him further into the soft shadows- a simple walk passed the shelves and the history they must hold, the legends that had been told for years.
ALEXANDRIA:
Alexandria walked further into the library with him. The library held its own memories for her and she suddenly began to think of Thais. Eyes were cast down towards the floor. This was so hard for her. Nemesis had asked her what she would have done if Thais was still here. Would she still have agreed to the arrangement with King Edward? She honestly did not know. But if it truly were the only way to save her kingdom, then she probably still would have agreed to it. As a ruler, you had responsibilities and you had to do all you could for your people and your land. If it meant she had to give up her happiness for them, she would do so in a heartbeat. She lightly cleared her throat, swallowing the lump of sadness that had formed there. "This is probably one of my favorite rooms here... It is nice when you cannot sleep and finding a book to read and then spending some time reading it afterward can make you tired and it's easier to fall asleep afterward." She forced a smile. Was she not making it at all obvious that she was a troubled sleeper? She walked towards one of the shelves and her finger glided along the spines of the books, as if searching for a specific one. When she found it, she plucked it from the shelf and walked towards Aric with it. "Here. Take this one." The book was slightly worn and torn and looked rather old. Alexandria sighed and then slowly explained it. "This book was my father's journal... I've read it several times over... It is what keeps me going. It is filled with many ideas and insights on how he ran the kingdom." She paused for a moment, a surge of awkwardness came over her, nearly suffocating as she struggled with what she was about to say next. When she spoke, her voice was slightly shaken up. "... As its future king... I would like you to have this." She handed it to him and turned away before he could resist or give it back to her. She stepped over towards the window where the moon shined brightly through its glass and she looked out, forcing herself to keep her composure.
ARIC:
Aric drew his eyes from the brief scanning of books, pausing in his steps as she neared him with one held in her hand. She handed it to him, and he took it slowly, glancing down to the worn cover, the edges slightly damaged from the years passed. He had looked up at her while she explained it...and the tension in the air deepened. He'd be a fool not to notice the struggle she went through in saying her next set of words, the cracking of her voice. That was the very thing that caused him trouble about the entire situation, and he found himself silently cursing his brother for it. It was instinct to try and comfort her, take her hand or pat her shoulder...but he didn't. This all was awkward enough. He didn't even get the chance to thank her before she was turning and walking away from him, looking out the window. Aric stood there, left in his silence, grinding his teeth in search of something to say. He never was good at comforting another, and it as obvious this woman needed something. With another glance down at the journal, he kept it firmly in hand as his arm fell to his side, long strides bringing him over to the queen to stand a few paces behind and off to the side. That tension almost kept him from saying what he intended to...but he forced it out of himself in a tone that could have been softer, but at least held that honest vibe to it, which she'd by now have noticed was natural for him, "I'm...sorry." A small pause. "Sorry that there isn't any other way. But I promise you...things will get easier." He hoped, at least. Perhaps, at some point, they could learn to be completely truthful with each other, and maybe enough to be labeled as friends...as odd as that would be for people who were married. It was that need to wipe away the sorrow from her face that made him secretly hopeful everything would be okay. So far, the rebuilding was going as planned.
ALEXANDRIA:
She stood there silently, her eyes focused out the window and her arms folded over her chest. When he finished speaking, she finally turned to face him again. "You have nothing to be sorry for, my lord...Please do not feel sorry." She frowned and then let out a quiet sigh. "It... " She hesitated again and shook her head. "It's just difficult. One of the reasons for the war was because I would not agree to an arranged marriage that would ultimately lead to the overtaking of my kingdom... The war was a fight for freedom for my people from a ruler and a country that wanted to control and take everything...." She looked at him with a serious expression. "And now that we've fought for that... Here I am again with this arranged marriage. I am in no means comparing you to Lord Aramis... I do not feel that you or your brother would do the things he had in mind... It's just... perhaps irony?" She turned away and shook her head again, allowing another long sigh to escape her. "I suppose I am just afraid. I feel guilty and horrible that you had to be dragged into this... You know very little about me or my kingdom...and you're just being thrown into it all... And it is I who should be telling you I'm sorry..." She looked to him and offered him just a slight smile. "But I know things will be okay... And things will get easier. I feel that in my heart...Avalendor has been through some horrible times...But we are all still here fighting to survive... No one has given up. And if there is one thing you learn about this place and its people... I hope you learn and see that the most..." Her eyes fell down to where he held her father's journal and she nodded towards it. "This is why I give you this book... So you can learn about us... And maybe ...after all... it won't be so bad... That you will want to be here..." She smiled ever so slightly and leaned against the window's frame, studying him only briefly.
ARIC:
It was after her apology, Aric believed he would just be turning around to leave her in her silence, not wishing to disturb her any further...but she continued. She opened up and shared her thoughts so willingly, something he wasn't able to do so easily. Something he wished he could do...especially in a place where he hardly knew anyone. He knew some of the important faces, remembered their names...but he wondered how much they saw of him. None, so far, had given him the cold shoulder...nor did they welcome him with open arms. That, of course, was fine. It was what he expected. Aric watched her with curious eyes, unable to draw his attention away as she explained...and it momentarily silenced him after she had finished. It struck him to realize that he most likely let his uncomfortable feelings slip out far too much. He might have passed off as someone who couldn't stand being in her kingdom. It was more that he couldn't get past the uneasiness of it all, the arrangement that had been made. "I made a choice...willingly accepted it. I do not think my brother would have denied you or harmed your people in any way if I declined...but I felt it was the right thing to do." He couldn't explain why. He didn't know the answer to that or expected to eventually know. To him, despite some of his negative feelings about it, it felt like the right thing to do. The tie between both ends. "Do not be sorry," he spoke again, making himself continue and offer at least half of what she had. "I have already seen the will of your people...and one day hope to be accepted along with them." He had hesitated for a moment, to share that small, hint of doubt...but she deserved to know. Maybe he simply wanted her to understand that he really was trying...willing to accept the fate that had been bestowed upon him.
ALEXANDRIA:
She stood there silently as he spoke. Her eyes watched him, searching for his emotions as he explained himself. She wondered why he was here. Was there a bigger reason than what he spoke of? Why had his brother pushed him off into this arrangement like he had? She was curious about Aric and what drove him to agree to this, other than the reasons he gave. Had he been lonely and been seeking a wife with no luck? Or was he in the same position she was in with losing love and not planning on finding it again? There were so many things that were to be learned about, but Alexandria wasn't about to impose or ask him any personal questions. At least not yet. Things were awkward enough as it was. She just nodded, her eyes turning to glance out the window again. "They will... I think they are just afraid that things will change from what they were before the war... That another war will come from Tresteria if it does not work out... I feel that some are angry with me for making this decision...As if I have made the wrong choice... But I cannot think of anything else I could have done... Except to give up as queen and move my people to another land... But I could not do that... There is so much I would have given up... The war would have been a pointless one and so many have died and were lost... How could I give up and dishonor them?" She shook her head. "I cannot..."
ARIC:
There was much she did not know, and he was unsure if she ever would know. He'd like to claim that the past was the past...but the past was what defined a person, made them give up or become stronger to continue. It was the choice between those two that he could not make...that he did not know. Was he simply giving up and just going along with this whole ordeal just because? Or was he trying to find a steady path once more, define himself again? The answer eluded him still. There came a slow nod as he took in her words, aimlessly wandering his eyes from her face to that journal he held firmly in hand. "It is good to listen to others, their opinions on matters...but in the end, it is yourself you must finally listen to," he responded, almost muttering the words as though they were meant for himself. And perhaps they mostly were, for Charles was always judging Aric's ideas and why he did things, along with Edward. Their influence had most likely aided in his decision, and thus far, a decision he wasn't completely regretting...only, honestly, partially. It was that need for acceptance that was possibly holding him back.
ALEXANDRIA:
He was right. Ultimately, you had to listen to your own instincts and do what your heart was telling you to do. Others may not understand it...but if you did, then that was all that mattered in the end. She sighed and nodded simply. "Aye...I suppose you are right. But it is hard when you do not wish to disappoint anyone. I always feel afraid of letting someone down...Upsetting them. I am constantly trying to please everyone and it's just so exhausting and draining..." Her shoulders lifted in a shrug and she shook her head. "I don't know... I just feel like I am trying so hard... And I'm not sure if I am actually getting anywhere." Her eyes lowered to the floor again and she was silent for a long moment. Various thoughts ran through her mind and she became lost in them for a moment. Then, finally, she snapped back into reality and stood up straight again. "Anyway..." She hesitated in her words and looked back at Aric. There was a sincerity in her eyes. "I really cannot tell you how much I appreciate all you've done so far... " To her, it sounded rehearsed... A cheesy line to say to someone that gave you a bad birthday gift. But she hoped that he could see in her eyes and know that she really meant it. She sighed, almost frustrated with herself because she just honestly had no idea what to say. And because of that, she continued to ramble on. "... Things are really starting to come together again... I've even noticed we have some new travelers coming to the island and staying..." She smiled faintly, having to bite her lip to stop herself from saying anything else.
Sleep had become a luxury that Alexandria rarely got to see. She kept herself up all night worrying over every little thing, and in return, she looked like hell. Her eyes had dark circles under them and she looked tired and worn out.
It was late and Alexandria tried to sleep, but only tossed and turned. She got up and dressed herself again, her candle was removed from her bedside table and she left her room, wandering down the halls of the castle. Her guards knew better than to force her to stay within her room. If she hadn't come out of her room, it would only concern them that something had happened to her.
Her and Aric had only spoken about business. It left him a mystery to her. She still had yet to learn anything about him and who he was... But she had noticed he was out working with her people in rebuilding. That left somewhat of an impression on her. Most royals she knew just sat back and let their people do all the work. She had little hope that Aric would be different.
With a heavy sigh, she walked through the wing that Aric resided in. She stopped at his door but did not knock. She did not wish to wake him if he was asleep. So she just paced back and forth in front of his door, thinking of something. An excuse, something she could do to get him to have some kind of conversation with her. But in the end, she could not justify a reason to interrupt whatever it was he was doing in this moment. There was a vase of flowers on a table in the hall. She plucked a single white lily flower from it and set it down on the floor in front of his door. A gesture of thanking him for all he had done so far. And then slowly, she started to walk away. But as she did, the hem of her dress was caught under her foot and she tripped, suddenly collapsing to the floor.
ARIC:
Aric slept when he got the chance, when he was so desperately tired from the labor of rebuilding that his eyes closed involuntarily on their own. Usually, it kept the nightmares away, ones that continuously haunted him ever since he came to Avalendor. It was nothing but his guilt...that guilt he somehow pinned upon himself when he knew deep down, somewhere, that he shouldn't be. Perhaps it was why he agreed to this marriage, agreed to help restore this kingdom to its beauty of before. It kept him occupied...kept him from falling into the bad habits he had found himself in previously. Despite the many times he argued with his brother, he knew Edward was right...about everything. The way he reacted to his wife's death...the foolish things he had done. It all swept through his mind now in a bundle of chaos, echoing loudly until it was unbearable, beginning to wake him in a writhing fit. Sweat beaded along his forehead and chest, silken sheets clinging to him like an extra skin...before he woke up with a heavy gasp, sitting up straight in his bed to stare wide-eyed into the shadows of his room; a look of fear crossing his features that most would deem impossible for him. He tried to control his breathing.
Then he heard something right outside his door, a soft thud and nothing else. It alarmed him, naturally, seeming to startle him a little more...but he'd climb from his bed, slipping on a thin tunic over his bare chest to rush to the door and open it carefully. He almost stepped upon the lily rested there on the floor at his door, which caught his eyes first...until lingering further into the hall, he noticed the queen there on the floor, having just recently fallen.
Thick brows furrowed together as he strode forward, wrapping big hands around her slender arms gently to aid her to her feet. "Are you alright?" he questioned, though it wasn't the first question that had come to mind. He was wondering what she was doing outside his door this time of night.
ALEXANDRIA:
She froze in a moment of panic when she heard the door open from behind her and heard his hurried footsteps bring him closer towards her. She flinched at his touch and came to stand again before him. A silent nod was given in response. "Aye... I am fine. Thank you... " She brushed herself off and stood there a moment, uncertain of what to say or do at this instant. She knew he was probably wondering what she was doing there. Her bottom lip was pulled inward and she bit down upon it lightly. "I'm sorry if I woke you... I was just... Wandering around the castle because I couldn't sleep. Tripped over my dress..." She raised a hand to comb back strands of hair that were fallen out of place from her long braid she wore. For a moment she hesitated. "How are you? Are you comfortable enough?" She slowly wrapped her arms around herself, blocking out the night's chill. "Have the servants and guards been helping you find everything alright?" Her sapphire-colored eyes were lowered towards the floor as she spoke, as if she were afraid to look at him for some reason. She felt embarrassed, really... For the mere fact that he was marrying her as a favor, and it just didn't settle well with her.
ARIC:
Didn't settle very well with him either. For a time he simply thought himself a pawn, played in his brother's game to get what he wanted...but it wasn't so much that. Edward wasn't as power-hungry as some might think- he was just being fair...as fair as you could be in such a situation. This kept the alliance strong, something that both kingdoms would benefit from. Aric had to keep telling himself that.
He drew his hands away when she stood to her full height, letting arms dangle at his sides as he looked to her with that small, confused expression. This time around, he was able to look at her...if only because she wasn't looking back at him with those sad eyes. He tried to study her features, to try and understand her true feelings over this all, but her lowered gaze made it difficult and he wound up turning his attention towards the nearest window instead. Then came the questions that he had to partially lie about. That was the difficult thing...Aric didn't have anyone to speak to in confidence, so the memories he left behind in Tresteria were just following him and building up until he wouldn't be able to contain it any longer.
"No, you didn't wake me," he replied briefly after her light explanation. A small, drawn in breath prepared him for the following questions. He'd nod to make himself seem less gloomy and more sincere, "I'm well. They have been very helpful, thank you." Gaze found her again and hesitated before he spoke, trying an attempt at some conversation. "Have you...been well?" There was a slight arch of a single brow, a soft glint of a dare in those dark eyes for her to try and argue that she didn't look at all tired. He could see at least that.
ALEXANDRIA:
Constantly, Alexandria was telling herself that this was completely the right thing to do, this agreement. Not only was Tresteria their strongest and largest island ally, but having such a close alliance with them due to this marriage arrangement, there would be security in Elysium's protection and trade. This was for the best. Lysander had spoken with her and had been the first to tell her she was strong and made the right decision despite its difficulty to cope with. A small smile was forced upon her lips as Aric assured her that he was doing well. She responded with a nod, happy to hear that he was alright. Though, she couldn't help but wonder if he actually told the truth. She could only imagine how he felt...being a stranger in a new place with no one he knew, save for his own guards. She sighed after he asked his question. What could she say? Tell him the truth or lie? She hesitated in her answer, one of her hands raising to tuck a strand of dark hair behind her ear. "I... am fine, I suppose... Just." She paused, trying to gather up her words. "Just... have a lot on my mind lately... A lot of planning and work to do... " She finally glanced up to him, her eyes studying his face for a brief moment. "I wanted to thank you for all the work you've done so far... And helping my people with rebuilding... I uhm... Really appreciate that." She forced a small smile to him and nodded. "You do not have to do that..."
ARIC:
There was a slight narrowing of his eyes in contemplation as she began to speak, and he could see more of the tiredness on her gentle features. It was never easy to be in charge of everything. Most thought that you had it easy if you wore a crown...in some cases, that really was not true. Alexandria was a prime example of that. It was clear that she was wearing herself out, even though she hadn't physically been out there helping to rebuild...She was doing everything else, which could prove to be just as stressful.
He nodded lightly again, allowing his attention to fall down to the floor as his arms crossed over his chest; a comfortable stance he usually fell into when he was unsure or nervous. "You will be of no help if you wear yourself too thin," he replied with words that might have sounded rude if not for the soft tone of his voice, the sincerity of it. A corner of his mouth twitched slightly, hinting and coming close to what might have been a smile, but not quite yet. "I like to. Keeps me occupied," he answered honestly to her last statement. Truthfully, he wouldn't know what else to do with himself. He did feel out of place here, thinking people were watching him and waiting for him to make a mistake, take over Elysium...something they wouldn't like. When he was at work, he could ignore the eyes burning into his back, hoping that his efforts would eventually prove he wasn't wishing to achieve what they believed. He was simply trying to find his place now. He was genuinely grateful for those who looked to him in gratitude...not for the money and support his brother was offering, but for the simple fact that he was just out there among them, helping.
ALEXANDRIA:
Alexandria knew that being as tired and weak as she was would not help out any, but she couldn't help it. A nod was given to him in response.
Awkwardly, she stood there in silence. Would this continue between them? They were to marry soon after the kingdom was restored.. And still, they knew nothing of each other. She turned slightly, as if she'd just walk away without saying anything. But then she stopped and turned back to him. "... Has anyone shown you around the castle yet? Would you like to take a walk with me? I can show you around." The castle was quite large, and although some of it had been destroyed by the war, a lot of it was still left intact and untouched. She sighed softly. "I know it's late so you do not have to. I just thought... " She stopped herself and shrugged her shoulders, forcing a small smile. "I will leave you alone. Goodnight, my lord..."
ARIC:
She knew that she was slowly hurting herself, but would she stop and take a rest every once in a while like she should? Aric found himself making a silent vow to assure that she took it easier, to perhaps check up on her instead of letting this awkward silence linger on, which would only worsen after their marriage...something that felt so unreal but would surely be real soon enough.
He was hesitant once more in answering, all this conversing with another and interacting somehow feeling so foreign to him, he was indeed about to answer her offer...but she already gave up. He was beginning to realize that they were far too much alike in that aspect, and he was hating himself for suddenly realizing what it must be like for the other person when he acted this way. It was rather rude in a way.
Mouth shut after lingering open for a brief moment with his ready answer, as he was ready to take a step forward and try to push back just a little bit of this awkwardness. It was honestly unbearable at times, and perhaps frustrating, too. Aric would take a step forward and gently grasp her arm once more to draw her to his side, facing down the hall. Then he'd let her go before beginning to slowly walk forward; hands clasped behind his back.
There, he made an attempt...and it only seemed to make things feel more awkward. He attempted to talk once more, "I haven't had a chance to see much of the castle yet. Been outside mostly."
ALEXANDRIA:
She felt his hand grasp her arm again and she turned her face to look at him. When he was walking by her side, she forced a faint smile and began walking down the hall again in the direction she had come from. There was much she could show him, and maybe that would shake free some of this awkwardness that lingered between them. It almost hurt how awkward this all was. It was like she was trapped in a dream that she could not wake up from. She nodded at his answer and glanced around the castle hall they were in. What could she show him first? "Well, you already know where your chambers and office quarters are. And where mine are, as well." They reached the connection point of the two wings where his living quarters were and where her's were. She motioned down the hall in the direction where her room and office were. As she walked along with him, she was silent. Her mind ran with various thoughts. What would happen after they married? What she should say in this moment. She did not know any of those answers. With a light clear of her throat, she spoke silently, pointing towards another corridor. "These are the living quarters of the protectorate council members." She pointed to a corridor across from that one. "And there is where the knights will stay when we have them." She lead him down the stairs that brought them to the second floor. "The second floor is where the ballroom, banquet hall and library are. Do you like to read?" She lead him towards where the large room was and stopped at the door, opening it slowly. The room was dark and she lifted her candle up to find the other candles by the door. Carefully, she lit them up and it brightened the room only slightly. She turned towards Aric and offered him a warm smile. "It is a most impressive room, I think..."
ARIC:
He initiated it...and now didn't know what else to do. The awkward feeling was so strong, so tight in the air around them that he had no doubt she felt it as well. It was perhaps the inevitable marriage in the close future that made it all almost unbearable at times. Two people knowing nothing of each other were forced to wed...And this was to be his home now, a place where he felt uncomfortable yet sometimes not. Perhaps it was the desperation and devastation he related to, that made him feel more at ease...as sad as that was. At least there was something holding him here and keeping him from running away from it all, like he had wanted to do so many times in Tresteria. He knew he couldn't- he wasn't a child anymore. Those fairytales and legends he read as a boy withered away to the back of his mind, taking with them the light that once burned so brightly inside him. He tried so hard to pay attention and seem like he was interested in what she was showing him...And it wasn't that he was not interested, but it was only making him think more about what was to come. He'd nod and look to her in acknowledgment when it seemed necessary, until he was sucked out of his thoughts when they stepped into the library; the gentle illumination of the candles dancing shadows across the giant shelves and the tomes they held. Eyes squinted with a bit of mirth, glinting with the memories of the library at home. "Indeed it is..." came his muttered reply as he moved forward, craning his neck back just a little to gaze up at the ceiling and the neverending rows of books. "More impressive than my own back home," he found himself adding without even realizing it too much. Feet carried him further into the soft shadows- a simple walk passed the shelves and the history they must hold, the legends that had been told for years.
ALEXANDRIA:
Alexandria walked further into the library with him. The library held its own memories for her and she suddenly began to think of Thais. Eyes were cast down towards the floor. This was so hard for her. Nemesis had asked her what she would have done if Thais was still here. Would she still have agreed to the arrangement with King Edward? She honestly did not know. But if it truly were the only way to save her kingdom, then she probably still would have agreed to it. As a ruler, you had responsibilities and you had to do all you could for your people and your land. If it meant she had to give up her happiness for them, she would do so in a heartbeat. She lightly cleared her throat, swallowing the lump of sadness that had formed there. "This is probably one of my favorite rooms here... It is nice when you cannot sleep and finding a book to read and then spending some time reading it afterward can make you tired and it's easier to fall asleep afterward." She forced a smile. Was she not making it at all obvious that she was a troubled sleeper? She walked towards one of the shelves and her finger glided along the spines of the books, as if searching for a specific one. When she found it, she plucked it from the shelf and walked towards Aric with it. "Here. Take this one." The book was slightly worn and torn and looked rather old. Alexandria sighed and then slowly explained it. "This book was my father's journal... I've read it several times over... It is what keeps me going. It is filled with many ideas and insights on how he ran the kingdom." She paused for a moment, a surge of awkwardness came over her, nearly suffocating as she struggled with what she was about to say next. When she spoke, her voice was slightly shaken up. "... As its future king... I would like you to have this." She handed it to him and turned away before he could resist or give it back to her. She stepped over towards the window where the moon shined brightly through its glass and she looked out, forcing herself to keep her composure.
ARIC:
Aric drew his eyes from the brief scanning of books, pausing in his steps as she neared him with one held in her hand. She handed it to him, and he took it slowly, glancing down to the worn cover, the edges slightly damaged from the years passed. He had looked up at her while she explained it...and the tension in the air deepened. He'd be a fool not to notice the struggle she went through in saying her next set of words, the cracking of her voice. That was the very thing that caused him trouble about the entire situation, and he found himself silently cursing his brother for it. It was instinct to try and comfort her, take her hand or pat her shoulder...but he didn't. This all was awkward enough. He didn't even get the chance to thank her before she was turning and walking away from him, looking out the window. Aric stood there, left in his silence, grinding his teeth in search of something to say. He never was good at comforting another, and it as obvious this woman needed something. With another glance down at the journal, he kept it firmly in hand as his arm fell to his side, long strides bringing him over to the queen to stand a few paces behind and off to the side. That tension almost kept him from saying what he intended to...but he forced it out of himself in a tone that could have been softer, but at least held that honest vibe to it, which she'd by now have noticed was natural for him, "I'm...sorry." A small pause. "Sorry that there isn't any other way. But I promise you...things will get easier." He hoped, at least. Perhaps, at some point, they could learn to be completely truthful with each other, and maybe enough to be labeled as friends...as odd as that would be for people who were married. It was that need to wipe away the sorrow from her face that made him secretly hopeful everything would be okay. So far, the rebuilding was going as planned.
ALEXANDRIA:
She stood there silently, her eyes focused out the window and her arms folded over her chest. When he finished speaking, she finally turned to face him again. "You have nothing to be sorry for, my lord...Please do not feel sorry." She frowned and then let out a quiet sigh. "It... " She hesitated again and shook her head. "It's just difficult. One of the reasons for the war was because I would not agree to an arranged marriage that would ultimately lead to the overtaking of my kingdom... The war was a fight for freedom for my people from a ruler and a country that wanted to control and take everything...." She looked at him with a serious expression. "And now that we've fought for that... Here I am again with this arranged marriage. I am in no means comparing you to Lord Aramis... I do not feel that you or your brother would do the things he had in mind... It's just... perhaps irony?" She turned away and shook her head again, allowing another long sigh to escape her. "I suppose I am just afraid. I feel guilty and horrible that you had to be dragged into this... You know very little about me or my kingdom...and you're just being thrown into it all... And it is I who should be telling you I'm sorry..." She looked to him and offered him just a slight smile. "But I know things will be okay... And things will get easier. I feel that in my heart...Avalendor has been through some horrible times...But we are all still here fighting to survive... No one has given up. And if there is one thing you learn about this place and its people... I hope you learn and see that the most..." Her eyes fell down to where he held her father's journal and she nodded towards it. "This is why I give you this book... So you can learn about us... And maybe ...after all... it won't be so bad... That you will want to be here..." She smiled ever so slightly and leaned against the window's frame, studying him only briefly.
ARIC:
It was after her apology, Aric believed he would just be turning around to leave her in her silence, not wishing to disturb her any further...but she continued. She opened up and shared her thoughts so willingly, something he wasn't able to do so easily. Something he wished he could do...especially in a place where he hardly knew anyone. He knew some of the important faces, remembered their names...but he wondered how much they saw of him. None, so far, had given him the cold shoulder...nor did they welcome him with open arms. That, of course, was fine. It was what he expected. Aric watched her with curious eyes, unable to draw his attention away as she explained...and it momentarily silenced him after she had finished. It struck him to realize that he most likely let his uncomfortable feelings slip out far too much. He might have passed off as someone who couldn't stand being in her kingdom. It was more that he couldn't get past the uneasiness of it all, the arrangement that had been made. "I made a choice...willingly accepted it. I do not think my brother would have denied you or harmed your people in any way if I declined...but I felt it was the right thing to do." He couldn't explain why. He didn't know the answer to that or expected to eventually know. To him, despite some of his negative feelings about it, it felt like the right thing to do. The tie between both ends. "Do not be sorry," he spoke again, making himself continue and offer at least half of what she had. "I have already seen the will of your people...and one day hope to be accepted along with them." He had hesitated for a moment, to share that small, hint of doubt...but she deserved to know. Maybe he simply wanted her to understand that he really was trying...willing to accept the fate that had been bestowed upon him.
ALEXANDRIA:
She stood there silently as he spoke. Her eyes watched him, searching for his emotions as he explained himself. She wondered why he was here. Was there a bigger reason than what he spoke of? Why had his brother pushed him off into this arrangement like he had? She was curious about Aric and what drove him to agree to this, other than the reasons he gave. Had he been lonely and been seeking a wife with no luck? Or was he in the same position she was in with losing love and not planning on finding it again? There were so many things that were to be learned about, but Alexandria wasn't about to impose or ask him any personal questions. At least not yet. Things were awkward enough as it was. She just nodded, her eyes turning to glance out the window again. "They will... I think they are just afraid that things will change from what they were before the war... That another war will come from Tresteria if it does not work out... I feel that some are angry with me for making this decision...As if I have made the wrong choice... But I cannot think of anything else I could have done... Except to give up as queen and move my people to another land... But I could not do that... There is so much I would have given up... The war would have been a pointless one and so many have died and were lost... How could I give up and dishonor them?" She shook her head. "I cannot..."
ARIC:
There was much she did not know, and he was unsure if she ever would know. He'd like to claim that the past was the past...but the past was what defined a person, made them give up or become stronger to continue. It was the choice between those two that he could not make...that he did not know. Was he simply giving up and just going along with this whole ordeal just because? Or was he trying to find a steady path once more, define himself again? The answer eluded him still. There came a slow nod as he took in her words, aimlessly wandering his eyes from her face to that journal he held firmly in hand. "It is good to listen to others, their opinions on matters...but in the end, it is yourself you must finally listen to," he responded, almost muttering the words as though they were meant for himself. And perhaps they mostly were, for Charles was always judging Aric's ideas and why he did things, along with Edward. Their influence had most likely aided in his decision, and thus far, a decision he wasn't completely regretting...only, honestly, partially. It was that need for acceptance that was possibly holding him back.
ALEXANDRIA:
He was right. Ultimately, you had to listen to your own instincts and do what your heart was telling you to do. Others may not understand it...but if you did, then that was all that mattered in the end. She sighed and nodded simply. "Aye...I suppose you are right. But it is hard when you do not wish to disappoint anyone. I always feel afraid of letting someone down...Upsetting them. I am constantly trying to please everyone and it's just so exhausting and draining..." Her shoulders lifted in a shrug and she shook her head. "I don't know... I just feel like I am trying so hard... And I'm not sure if I am actually getting anywhere." Her eyes lowered to the floor again and she was silent for a long moment. Various thoughts ran through her mind and she became lost in them for a moment. Then, finally, she snapped back into reality and stood up straight again. "Anyway..." She hesitated in her words and looked back at Aric. There was a sincerity in her eyes. "I really cannot tell you how much I appreciate all you've done so far... " To her, it sounded rehearsed... A cheesy line to say to someone that gave you a bad birthday gift. But she hoped that he could see in her eyes and know that she really meant it. She sighed, almost frustrated with herself because she just honestly had no idea what to say. And because of that, she continued to ramble on. "... Things are really starting to come together again... I've even noticed we have some new travelers coming to the island and staying..." She smiled faintly, having to bite her lip to stop herself from saying anything else.
