Sashataakheru (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
wolfanfics) wrote2009-11-21 10:36 pm
wolfanfics) wrote2009-11-21 10:36 pm
NaNoWriMo Day 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21
Because apparently I fail at updating this journal. XD
Also, the last few days have been sort of scant on the writing front, so there hasn't been much to post, since I didn't want to post incomplete scenes, so now that I actually have completed scenes, I shall post them for you. :D
THOUGH. I BROKE 40K TODAY. 8D LESS THAN 10K PEOPLE. 8D
Though I am sure the story needs probably 60-75K to be finished properly. And then it'll need a damn good edit. XD
First scene: Set before this bit from chapter seven I posted on day 16. (Because I fail at writing in order. XD)
Chapter Seven
Settling in (Because I could not think of a suitably awesome scene title)
Jalyn had given them a house near his own for Otis, Nelson, Charlie and Lucky to stay in, and offered food in an hour if they wanted to join them at his house, an offer that was not refused. The house they'd been given was somewhat basic, but it was still a decent house and was more solid than it appeared. It was split into four main areas, one for sleeping, one that was a lounge-like area, a third for cooking, and a fourth as a makeshift bathroom, given the technological level of the time. It would do, in spite of its lack of modern plumbing.
"Hey, I like it. Got that old beach hut appeal," Charlie said, taking in the lounge area. It contained some chairs, a small table, and what looked like some sort of primitive lounge suite.
"I'm not even sure most of this stuff is supposed to be here. You seen the plumbing back here?" Lucky said, gesturing towards the bathroom area.
Charlie followed him intrigued. "It's got plumbing hey?" he said as he disappeared into the room.
Nelson remained in the lounge. It almost worked, the way it looked. It was almost believable for the time period. Except...
"It's surprisingly ... modern, don't you think?" Otis said, coming back from the kitchen.
"Well, it looks solid enough. We're hardly in a position to complain. Seen worse in other parts of the world, that's for sure," Nelson said.
"Too right, hey? Man, they gave us a house to ourselves. Wasn't really expecting that," Otis said.
"What were you expecting? You sure we're in the right place then?" Nelson said.
Otis pulled out a scrunched up piece of paper out of a pocket and flattened it out. "Erm, well, says here we were looking for Birmingham in 1830. I reckon we missed the mark somehow. Still, might as well stick around if we'll be helpful. Can't think of everything else to do."
"I did wonder if we'd ended up here a little earlier than we'd planned. So. If we are here too early, does this mean we've got to stay here for eight years until we're properly needed?" Nelson said.
"Dunno. This brief says nothing about magic, and this place is swarming with it. I can smell it. We somehow got the wrong world. Don't ask me how. I wasn't the one who set the bloody machine. Don't even know how magic works here. What them kids did was not something I ever seen before. Magic don't work like that, least it doesn't in my experience. Might go talk to Ulysses later, see if he can't help me," Otis said.
"The same guy you say you know from your time? How does that even work?" Nelson said.
"I'm hoping to find that out when I go see him. Can't think why he'd end up here of all places. Didn't think he was part of this too, though it's not like we talked much after he left. Don't think he really forgave me for that. Don't think Kelly did either. I really am an idiot sometimes," Otis said.
"Don't beat yourself up over it. It's all so far in the past now, it doesn't even matter. Come on, let's get settled in," Nelson said, wrapping an arm around Otis' shoulders.
"Yeah, sounds good. We'll see what all this is about in the morning," Otis said.
With a smile, they headed into the sleeping area, and found two bunk beds on opposite walls. They were stocky well-bullt pieces of furniture, made from wood. There was nothing much else to the room, apart from an old barrel, a wooden chair by the window, and a rifle leaning against a wall. There were a couple of chests at the foot of each bunk, but no wardrobe or chest of drawers.
"Here's hoping they're as comfortable as they look, hey?" Nelson said.
Otis sat down on the closest bunk and bounced a little. "Well, it ain't perfect, but it's not a pile of straw, that's for sure. It'll do."
Nelson joined him. They were more comfortable than they looked, and did not appear to be bags of straw. The sheets were not in the best condition, but under the circumstances, it was forgivable. The pillows were lumpy, but sufficient.
"Hey, that's not too bad, is it?" Nelson said.
"Told you it was nice. So, which one do you want? Top or bottom?" Otis said.
Nelson gave him a wry grin. "I'm assuming you're talking beds, yeah?"
Otis feigned innocence. "Why would you think I was talking about anything else?"
"You choose. I'll take the other," Nelson said.
"Ahh, eh, I'll take top. You can bottom. For once," Otis said.
"I'm assuming you're talking about beds," Charlie said, joining them in the bedroom, Lucky beside him.
"Of course. They are bunk beds," Otis said with a grin.
"Sure, sure. You fussed where you sleep, Lucky?" Charlie said, glancing at him.
"Not really, as long as it's comfy," Lucky said.
Charlie walked over to the other bunk to inspect it. "Not bad, is it? Could have some fun here," he decided.
"I'm assuming you're still talking about beds, yeah?" Otis said, stifling a laugh.
Charlie ignored him and lay down on the bottom bunk. "Hey, come check this out. It's actually comfy," he said, gesturing to Lucky to join him.
The beds were surprisingly wide, and there was enough room for Charlie and Lucky to lie side by side without feeling squashed. No one could quite work out what the mattresses or bedding was made of, but whatever it was, it was very comfortable. It was firm enough to not feel like you were about to sink into the middle of the mattress and vanish down into the ground, but still soft enough to feel like you weren't sleeping on something solid.
Charlie rolled onto his side, propping his head up with his arm as he looked over at Otis and Nelson. "So, what's the plan now, hey?"
"Wait til the food's up and eat like there's no tomorrow? I don't know. Won't know what their plans are til tomorrow anyway, so we might as well just go with the flow, as it were," Otis said.
"So who was that bloke you said you knew then?" Charlie said.
"Used to be in a band together. Years and years ago. Don't ask me what he's doing here. I got no idea. Never thought I'd see him again. He left, and then a few years later, he just vanishes. Like, completely gone. Not just not doing music anymore, but properly vanished. Left his house as it was and he was nowhere to be found. Didn't leave any clue as to where he'd gone or why, just one day he was gone, and he never came back. I just assumed he'd gone for good. Didn't think he'd turn up here. I'll go have a chat with him and see what he's got to say for himself," Otis said.
"What, now, or later on?" Charlie said.
"Might go now, while I'm thinking about it. I'll be back later. Give me apologies to Jalyn," Otis said, getting to his feet.
"Alright, seeya round. We won't wait up, will be, boys?" Charlie said.
"You do what you gotta do, okay? See what you can find out," Nelson said.
With a smile and a silent goodbye to Nelson, Otis left the small house and went to find Jalyn, looking for his friend Ulysses. Nelson, CHarlie and Lucky stayed where they were, and the guitars weren't kept in their cases for long as music began to play.
And now, Chapter Eight! :D
Chapter Eight
The art of honesty in the face of danger
Supper came and went with relative disinterest. Charles was absent, having been called to a meeting with one of his commanders. He had given his apologies and prepared supper for them anyway. Without Charles to question Craig's continued presence, it was easy enough for Andrew to take him back to his room again once they had eaten. They waited until William retired to the library to avoid even him seeing them together. Andrew felt a sense of loyalty to the disguised princess now. He held her secret, as she held knowledge of his grandfather's possessions, and obligation demanded he do everything in his power to protect her.
Andrew would hear nothing of sending her back to the barracks. Instead, he insisted she stay with him, at least until he had a chance to ask Charles whether she could assist him, rather than train as a soldier. He was not entirely sure how to approach this. Perhaps Charles could already see the attachment they had for each other. He offered her one of his nightshirts and offered his bed to her. She insisted they share. Unable to say no, he allowed her to do so, and his awkwardness at having a princess curled up beside him did soon pass. She appeared female now, the magic gone. Her hair was longer than he had noticed before, and he could make out the curves of her body beneath the bedsheets.
"I do hope our friendship is not broken by this deception of mine. I had never wished to hurt you. I fear we are bound together now, for better or worse," she murmured.
"I would not denounce you for all the gold in the world. I am unsure how to refer to you now. Should I continue to call you Craig, when you are female?" Andrew said.
She sighed and shifted beside him. "Craig will suffice when I am in the company of others. Call me what you will when we are alone. It matters not anymore."
"You will forgive me for use of the feminine when we are alone then. It is... easier, for me at least, given your appearance," Andrew said.
She glanced at him and settled into his arms again, resting her head on his chest. "I can understand that. What a strange creature I am. I am not used to this body of mine. I have not seen it for so long it is as if it belongs to someone else. I shall have to adjust to it. What a queer thought."
"If it is any consolation, it is a very fine specimen of a female body," Andrew said.
"You are being very kind to me. I have not known many men like you. Hearing the way men talk about women for so many years is not easy. There is something wrong with our society, but I am afraid it will never change. I am intrigued as to why you wear your hair long. I would have thought society would have chastised you for being so unfashionable," Sophia said.
"I am not nobility, I am merely wealthy. This seems to distance me from the sort of chastising you think I deserve. I am not sure why this is so. I have never made a point of courting nobility as it stands. I am too solitary to worry about it," Andrew said.
"You are honest with yourself in a way commoners are. You do not strike me as being so arrogant as others of your position are. You are probably right, however. You would not be seen as a prize to be won or courted. You are too nice, too selfless. You lack their character. I suppose I am also lacking character. I did not wish to be trapped in a palace. Once you have tasted true freedom, there is little to entice you back into slavery," Sophia said. She paused for a moment as she turned to look at him. "You are not a Royalist like your brother, are you? You think as your grandfather does. I can see it in your eyes."
"I am not a Dissenter, but they have my sympathies. Freedom belongs to all men, not just to those of the King. These are not things I would ever say in public. I do not wish to cause trouble, not for me or my brother," Andrew said.
"I have made a decision. One night, you shall accompany me to the Dissenter camp where I have lived for years. I believe you will find it enlightening. The music will sing to you if nothing else does," Sophia said.
"Music? What sort of music are we talking about here?" Andrew said.
"You will find out when we go there. One of our magicians is gifted in musical magic. I am sure you will find it most enlightening as a student not just of magic but of music and of your grandfather's texts," Sophia said.
"I have a feeling I will enjoy it immensely then. I am aware you can cast magic with music, but I have not been able to fathom how it us done," Andrew said. He could feel his fingers tingling at the anticipation of being able to cast with music. He had wanted to try such a spell since he had first heard about it, but had lacked the knowledge to really know what he was doing. It was the downside to being self-taught, and being too fearful to seek out a teacher.
"You will find out when we get there. My understanding is it utilises a combination of a precise score and the correct use of a specially prepared instrument to create the magic. It is much more advanced than a simple hand gesture," Sophia said.
"I should be delighted to learn about it, if you would be so kind as to allow it. It sounds fascinating," Andrew said.
"We shall get your workshop set up first. Do not ask about when we shall go. I shall make that decision when the time is right," Sophia said.
"I will await your word then," Andrew said.
Silence fell over them, and Sophia returned to lying beside him, curled into his arms. Andrew gently stroked her arm, the only show of affection and intimacy he dared show to a princess. It was an intimacy he would have to get used to. They had no one else but each other. Andrew was not sure even his brother could be trusted, and that thought broke his heart. His brother was the only blood family he had. To think he could not be trusted in such secret matters was not something Andrew wished to consider.
There was also the issue that Andrew had never actually lain with a woman before. It was not something he had ever had much interest in doing, and the few times he had attempted to court women in London had gone badly. He was too timid, too eager, and lacked the vain appearance and confidence of self that other more successful suitors had. It did not help that every time he thought about being with another, it felt like he would be betraying Charles. He had promised himself to Charles, even if it would only be a promise between them that society would never recognise.
Andrew could not help thinking how different it was to have a woman beside him instead of Charles. She felt soft and warm, and gave Andrew the sense that he should not hurt her. She was very beautiful, and Andrew felt a special kind of trust that she would consent to such intimacy with a stranger. He was interrupted from his thoughts as he felt her stroke his chest gently. It made him shiver. There was something in the way she was touching him that Andrew decided was a little more than just simple intimacy. She looked up at him and smiled. Andrew was not sure he could refuse the touch of a woman, nor if he even wanted to do so. His body was reacting in the same way it did when Charles touched him, and perhaps Andrew had neglected to acknowledge just how attracted he had become to Craig. Sophia. Whoever she was.
"I do believe you are making me insensible," Andrew managed to say.
"Then do not fight it and let me take you to paradise," she said, giving him a look that sent waves of desire down his spine.
Andrew decided against thinking about it further and let her hand touch his.
Opportunistic Bird Of Paradise
Andrew was awake surprisingly early the next morning. He was a little surprised to see someone sleeping beside him until he remembered he'd allowed Craig to share his bed, and what had happened was more than just sleeping, though Andrew could hardly claim he was an innocent party. He was just as guilty of taking her to bed as she was in instigating their relations. Except... Craig did not look like a man. There was a curvature to his body that was too feminine. Andrew rolled onto his side to get a better look. He hesitated in touching him. Her. Andrew remembered who he really was. It was a strange thing to find a Princess in your bed, even one that did not wish to be treated like one.
"I-I do not know what to call you. How to refer to you. You are female, but..."
Craig yawned and rolled over to look at him. "Hmm? Did y'say something?"
Andrew saw he was naked. His body - her female body was most evident, and Andrew thought it a most inappropriate situation and wished she would cover up. "I-it was nothing. It matters not."
Craig smiled at him and brushed a finger down his cheek. "Hmm, you playing coy again? It's very cute."
Andrew had to admit his confidence was failing. She was a royal Princess, runaway or not, and they had shared a bed together. It was as ghastly a situation as it was intimately enjoyable. "I... I do not normally engage in such activities, especially with someone such as yourself. If we were ever caught-"
"Ahh, but we are not caught, are we? There is no one here to witness us together, there is just-"
"Your most generous Lordship, at your service," Charles said with a flourishing bow. "Andrew. You did not tell me you were bringing a girl home. I was just about to wake you so we might get started on your workshop, however you appear to be occupied so I will leave you to join me to break your fast later. When you are ready. Though if you intend to bring a girl home next time, do not feel ashamed to tell me in advance so I do not disturb you in the morning,"
Charles entered the room and strode towards the bed. Charles had the sort of confidence about him that Andrew had never possessed. Charles would never have difficulty procuring female company. Charles perched on the edge of the bed on the side Craig was sleeping on, attracted to her beauty. Andrew pulled the covers over his head to hide his shame and embarrassment. Craig erupted into giggles, but at least had the decency to pull the sheets around his body. He waved to Charles coyly and winked.
"I do think it is most impolite he did not inform your Lordship of this. You might have to give him a good telling off later, don't you think?" Craig said, putting on his best posh hooker voice. Using Craig's accent would not have been helpful in the slightest.
"You look familiar. Have we met before?" Charles said, trying to get a better look at her.
"I do not believe I have had the pleasure of meeting you, sir," Craig said, offering his hand to him. "Lady Krishna at your service."
Charles kept his eyes on her as he gently kissed her hand. "Sir Charles, at your service. Charmed to welcome you to my home."
"You seem like a proper gentleman. And with such a big house! You are certainly doing well for yourself," Craig purred.
Andrew refused to watch. He could hear the intonation of Craig's voice; he knew what he was trying to do. It didn't mean he particularly wanted to watch. He rolled over onto his back and pretended to go back to sleep. The last thing he wanted was for Charles to touch her. Even though Andrew would never have dared lay claim to Sophia in that way, it did not mean he was fine with Charles touching her that way as well. But that was how Charles got to where he was, and why Andrew would always be asking for patronage.
"I should allow you to dress and then perhaps we should continue this discussion elsewhere in less intimate settings. Shall we eat together?" Charles said, aware he was becoming utterly entranced with her.
"That would be gentlemanly of you, sir. I shall bring our dear friend Andrew down when he has stopped blushing red like a tomato," Craig giggled. "However, I am not sure I have anything to wear that would be suitable to dine with such an elegand Lord as yourself. Would you, perchance, send for a dress?"
"I can have some sent up, my Lady. I should not wish you to feel under-dressed at my expense. Do feel yourself perfectly free to use the bathroom to freshen up. Andrew knows where it is," Charles said.
"I must thank you for your kindness then. I shall happily repay you the cost of the dress, if it should please you, my Lordship," Craig said.
Charles bowed to Craig. "Think nothing of it, sweet Lady. My generosity knows no bounds, and I should be glad to see you dressed as elegantly as your features suggest you shall be. I shall await your presence downstairs. And do not let Andrew hide away all day. We have things we wish to do today that I am sure you are most welcome to assist with."
"Well, I don't know how much help I will be, but I am very good at sitting around looking beautiful, if that is of any help," Craig said.
"It's enough for me, is that not so, Andrew?" Charles said, patting Andrew's leg.
Andrew merely groaned in annoyance. Charles laughed, Craig laughed, and Andrew sighed with relief as Charles bid goodbye and left them alone.
"You really know how to get yourself in trouble," Andrew said.
"Oh, do come out, Andrew. I have saved you the embarrassment of lying in bed with a Princess. He will not find out my true identity. I am merely the daughter of a nobleman. I should think you'd be glad. After all, it solves your issue of what to do with me, now that it appears I have been forced to resume my female identity," Craig said.
Andrew sighed heavily. He had to concede it had been a good move on her part. His part. Her part? He emerged from the covers and sat up, looking at her. "Does that mean I am to refer to you as female from now on? What name shall I use?"
Craig stifled a laugh. "Lady Krishna. I was born in India. My father was a regional governor. I am back in England with my mother in search of a husband. It's perfectly simple."
"I do believe you have just made that up," Andrew said.
"I don't see you complaining. Besides, I believe you have no other choice. I shall do enough magic to make myself look nothing like Craig so he does not stand a chance of realising who I am. And you, dear boy, will say nothing on the matter. Now, we should most certainly wash. I should like to bathe again in that beautiful bathroom," Craig said.
Andrew watched her slip out of bed ever so beautifully. She pulled on a robe, borrowed some shoes, and stopped at the door as she noticed Andrew was still sitting in bed.
"Well, come on, dear. We do not have all day to sleep," she said.
Andrew decided she probably had a better idea of what she was doing and obediently dressed. Together, Andrew made the pretense of showing her where the bathroom was and they indulged in the hot water and scented oils for as long as they felt necessary in order to not keep his Lordship waiting til supper time. Upon returning to Andrew's bed chambers, a most elegant white morning dress and appropriate cosmetics, shoes, and other accessories had been left on the newly made bed.
"Oh, my, your Lordship is most generous. I was going to fake the rest. This is far too much for such a creature as me. He must really like me," Craig said.
"I believe he really does. Now, we should not dally too much longer. I shall help you dress and we shall head down to breakfast. I daresay Charles will not wait forever, and I am rather famished, if I should admit such a thing," Andrew said.
Craig turned to him and rested his hands on his shoulders. "Remember. I am Lady Krishna. You will address me as such. Leave me to deal with Charles."
Andrew looked at her, unsure she could cope as well as she seemed to think she could. "But if Charles should recognise you-"
"I said, leave him to me. I will deal with him. I know how to deal with men like him. Add a little magic, and he'll be mine," Craig said.
"I wish you all the luck in the world then," Andrew said.
Craig smiled and kissed him one last time before leaving him to dress. Andrew kept his distance, discretely dressing while he avoided watching Craig too much. He was, after all, a gentleman, and a gentleman does not watch a woman dress, even if one has already seen her naked. He kept his back turned until Craig told him he could look. Andrew turned to find someone completely different standing before him. Craig had been completely buried. There was no trace of a man anywhere on her features, and she held herself with an elegance only a princess could possess.
"You have outdone yourself," Andrew said, approaching her.
"Well, I am glad you think so. Now, shall we go to tea?" she said, offering her arm.
"With pleasure, my Lady," Andrew said.
Arm in arm, Andrew escorted her down to breakfast, confident their ruse would work, while also being anxious that it would work too well and the night they spent together would be the last before Charles took her from him forever. Andrew would not have dared air such concerns. She would have dismissed them as nonsense. It would also not have stopped Andrew worrying. Putting on a smile, Andrew pushed his fears aside. They were not the thoughts to bring to breakfast.
Breakfast Is served
Charles and William were waiting in the dining room for them, talking quietly amongst themselves. ANdrew didn't know what the paper was that William was holding, nor what it might contain that would necessitate such discussion. Andrew's attention was torn away from the paper to the lovely feast spread before them, with coffee, juice, and fresh bread, amongst other things.
"And so we arrive. Good morning, Charles, William," Andrew said as they entered.
Charles and William turned to greet them. "Ahh, there you are. I was beginning to think you had drowned. Welcome, welcome, come, sit, we shall begin."
"And who might this be, Andrew? Are you keeping secrets from me?" William said, spying the beautiful woman beside Andrew.
"William, this is Lady Krishna. Lady, Krishna, my brother William, and our Lord Charles," Andrew said, introducing them.
Lady Krishna curtseyed and said her good mornings, fluttering her eyelashes in a not-so-innocent manner. William helped her into a chair before taking a seat opposite her, next to Charles. Andrew took his place beside Lady Krishna and prayed to anyone who might listen that their ruse would work.
"This is a delightful meal, my Lord. I am assuming it is as good as it looks?" the Lady smiled.
"Of course. Only the finest, especially for you, madam," Charles said.
Lady Krishna smiled graciously. Andrew blushed a little. With another smile from Charles, breakfast was served, and discussion was most suitable for such an occasion, even if Andrew grew to hate the way she was flirting so openly with Charles. Charles was encouraged by her, putting on his best show of bravado and arrogance. Andrew was not exactly surprised by this. It was just how he was. He wanted to disappear under the ground when he saw William trying to compete with Charles. He wanted to scream that Lady Krishna was his, and his alone, and that no one should dare touch her, but he held his tongue. There was nothing he could offer that could better William or Charles, not to her.
Andrew was waiting for their meal to finish so he could distract himself with setting up his workshop. However, as coffee was being served to finish off, William decided to tell Andrew exactly what had been on that piece of paper he had seen them discussing earlier.
"Andrew, we recieved a letter this morning. From our uncle. I should ask you to read it before I say anything more," William said, handing over the piece of paper.
Andrew did not like the tone of his voice, nor his choice of words, and did not wish to read that letter. He had no doubts it contained nothing that would make his day better. As he unfolded the letter and read it, his fears were confirmed. His day had indeed gotten worse.
"We have been disinherited? Now why am I not surprised. I am surprised it took him so long to do so. We were not exactly adults when he took us into his care. He could have done this when we were but babes and known nothing of our inheritance. Why do this now?" Andrew said.
"Our uncle is foolish. However, I would not doubt a word of that letter. If he has indeed made it impossible for us to prove our claim to our lands, then we are indeed alone, and nothing we can do will stop him. He has our lands now, as well as his own, and all we have left are what we brought with us here. We are orphans now, truly, and poorer than the poorest on the streets. We have nothing to our name. Nothing at all. We are worthless. I will leave you a moment to realise just what that means, brother," William said, and Andrew cringed at the bitterness in his voice.
Lady Krishna took Andrew's hand sympathetically. Andrew took a moment to think about his words before he spoke. "I was always aware I would live my life through the patronage of others. I was not aware it would be quite so essential to our existence."
"You two will cry no tears over it. You will always be welcome in my home, and you have my protection and patronage, should you ever need it. I am not sure what can be done about your uncle, but I will ask some friends of mine to see if there is any way to restore your honour and lands. If you should have a powerful ally, be thankful it is me. We have long since been friends, and I will not tolerate this treatment of you. Leave the matter in my hands. I at least have sway with people your uncle cannot persuade. This will be in my favour, and you two have always been well-respected, in spite of what you may think of society," Charles said.
"You are far too generous to us, Charles. I should not wish to trouble you with our personal matters. You have far greater things to worry about, surely," Andrew said.
"I will not have you disinherited. You are true heirs to your lands, and I will see to it that they are restored to you. You are old friends. Do not think this is too trivial an issue for me. Even if, for some reason, I cannot restore your honour, you will always be welcome here. I would never turn you away, nor do I wish to do so. And you, my Lady, are welcome as long as you wish to stay," Charles said.
"That is most gracious of you, my Lord. I will stay with Andrew, if that is not too much trouble. We are... joined, in a way I cannot explain," Lady Krishna said, looking at Andrew.
"Have you courted a woman and asked for her hand without even telling me, brother? You sly old dog, I congratulate you on your success," William said.
"It is... Well, we are not betrothed as yet. But we may as well be so. I cannot imagine anyone else I should wish to be with," Andrew said. He secretly hoped he could convince both William and Charles that she was off limits. Then perhaps he could stop worrying about her straying.
"He is charming and elegant and I will have no one else," Lady Krishna said, and the look she gave Andrew was the most genuine expression of love and affection he had seen her give.
"I will leave you to yourselves, then, and do let me know if you wish me to arrange a marriage ceremony," Charles said. He was happy to let him marry, if it made him happy. He would have to talk to him in private, to negotiate what would happen between them if ANdrew intended to settle down with a woman, but Charles would no sooner stop him.
"I will indeed let you know if we wish to take you up on that offer," Andrew said.
"I do believe this has significantly cheered the mood for today. Congratulations, Andrew. Now, what shall we do today? I have remembered an errand in town I need to attend to. Should you wish to begin on your workshop down in the old manor house, you are most welcome to do so," Charles said.
"I would like to get working on that, yes. I have missed having somewhere to work," Andrew said.
"Then do not let me stop you. Here, have the keys. I am sure you remember which it is to get in. My servants will be happy to assist in carrying your belongings down there, should you wish it," Charles said.
"I will make sure to remember that. I am sure we will be fine. Should you wish to assist us, William?" Andrew said.
"I will decline the offer. I have my training to attend to," William said.
"Well, I shall not keep you from your work any longer. I shall see you anon. It was a pleasure to dine with you, my Lady," Charles said.
ANYWAY. THAT WAS A LOT TO POST. XD And I'm not quite sure that last scene is properly finished, but it's finished enough to post.
So yes. Not bad for a rough draft. :D
Also, the last few days have been sort of scant on the writing front, so there hasn't been much to post, since I didn't want to post incomplete scenes, so now that I actually have completed scenes, I shall post them for you. :D
THOUGH. I BROKE 40K TODAY. 8D LESS THAN 10K PEOPLE. 8D
Though I am sure the story needs probably 60-75K to be finished properly. And then it'll need a damn good edit. XD
First scene: Set before this bit from chapter seven I posted on day 16. (Because I fail at writing in order. XD)
Chapter Seven
Settling in (Because I could not think of a suitably awesome scene title)
Jalyn had given them a house near his own for Otis, Nelson, Charlie and Lucky to stay in, and offered food in an hour if they wanted to join them at his house, an offer that was not refused. The house they'd been given was somewhat basic, but it was still a decent house and was more solid than it appeared. It was split into four main areas, one for sleeping, one that was a lounge-like area, a third for cooking, and a fourth as a makeshift bathroom, given the technological level of the time. It would do, in spite of its lack of modern plumbing.
"Hey, I like it. Got that old beach hut appeal," Charlie said, taking in the lounge area. It contained some chairs, a small table, and what looked like some sort of primitive lounge suite.
"I'm not even sure most of this stuff is supposed to be here. You seen the plumbing back here?" Lucky said, gesturing towards the bathroom area.
Charlie followed him intrigued. "It's got plumbing hey?" he said as he disappeared into the room.
Nelson remained in the lounge. It almost worked, the way it looked. It was almost believable for the time period. Except...
"It's surprisingly ... modern, don't you think?" Otis said, coming back from the kitchen.
"Well, it looks solid enough. We're hardly in a position to complain. Seen worse in other parts of the world, that's for sure," Nelson said.
"Too right, hey? Man, they gave us a house to ourselves. Wasn't really expecting that," Otis said.
"What were you expecting? You sure we're in the right place then?" Nelson said.
Otis pulled out a scrunched up piece of paper out of a pocket and flattened it out. "Erm, well, says here we were looking for Birmingham in 1830. I reckon we missed the mark somehow. Still, might as well stick around if we'll be helpful. Can't think of everything else to do."
"I did wonder if we'd ended up here a little earlier than we'd planned. So. If we are here too early, does this mean we've got to stay here for eight years until we're properly needed?" Nelson said.
"Dunno. This brief says nothing about magic, and this place is swarming with it. I can smell it. We somehow got the wrong world. Don't ask me how. I wasn't the one who set the bloody machine. Don't even know how magic works here. What them kids did was not something I ever seen before. Magic don't work like that, least it doesn't in my experience. Might go talk to Ulysses later, see if he can't help me," Otis said.
"The same guy you say you know from your time? How does that even work?" Nelson said.
"I'm hoping to find that out when I go see him. Can't think why he'd end up here of all places. Didn't think he was part of this too, though it's not like we talked much after he left. Don't think he really forgave me for that. Don't think Kelly did either. I really am an idiot sometimes," Otis said.
"Don't beat yourself up over it. It's all so far in the past now, it doesn't even matter. Come on, let's get settled in," Nelson said, wrapping an arm around Otis' shoulders.
"Yeah, sounds good. We'll see what all this is about in the morning," Otis said.
With a smile, they headed into the sleeping area, and found two bunk beds on opposite walls. They were stocky well-bullt pieces of furniture, made from wood. There was nothing much else to the room, apart from an old barrel, a wooden chair by the window, and a rifle leaning against a wall. There were a couple of chests at the foot of each bunk, but no wardrobe or chest of drawers.
"Here's hoping they're as comfortable as they look, hey?" Nelson said.
Otis sat down on the closest bunk and bounced a little. "Well, it ain't perfect, but it's not a pile of straw, that's for sure. It'll do."
Nelson joined him. They were more comfortable than they looked, and did not appear to be bags of straw. The sheets were not in the best condition, but under the circumstances, it was forgivable. The pillows were lumpy, but sufficient.
"Hey, that's not too bad, is it?" Nelson said.
"Told you it was nice. So, which one do you want? Top or bottom?" Otis said.
Nelson gave him a wry grin. "I'm assuming you're talking beds, yeah?"
Otis feigned innocence. "Why would you think I was talking about anything else?"
"You choose. I'll take the other," Nelson said.
"Ahh, eh, I'll take top. You can bottom. For once," Otis said.
"I'm assuming you're talking about beds," Charlie said, joining them in the bedroom, Lucky beside him.
"Of course. They are bunk beds," Otis said with a grin.
"Sure, sure. You fussed where you sleep, Lucky?" Charlie said, glancing at him.
"Not really, as long as it's comfy," Lucky said.
Charlie walked over to the other bunk to inspect it. "Not bad, is it? Could have some fun here," he decided.
"I'm assuming you're still talking about beds, yeah?" Otis said, stifling a laugh.
Charlie ignored him and lay down on the bottom bunk. "Hey, come check this out. It's actually comfy," he said, gesturing to Lucky to join him.
The beds were surprisingly wide, and there was enough room for Charlie and Lucky to lie side by side without feeling squashed. No one could quite work out what the mattresses or bedding was made of, but whatever it was, it was very comfortable. It was firm enough to not feel like you were about to sink into the middle of the mattress and vanish down into the ground, but still soft enough to feel like you weren't sleeping on something solid.
Charlie rolled onto his side, propping his head up with his arm as he looked over at Otis and Nelson. "So, what's the plan now, hey?"
"Wait til the food's up and eat like there's no tomorrow? I don't know. Won't know what their plans are til tomorrow anyway, so we might as well just go with the flow, as it were," Otis said.
"So who was that bloke you said you knew then?" Charlie said.
"Used to be in a band together. Years and years ago. Don't ask me what he's doing here. I got no idea. Never thought I'd see him again. He left, and then a few years later, he just vanishes. Like, completely gone. Not just not doing music anymore, but properly vanished. Left his house as it was and he was nowhere to be found. Didn't leave any clue as to where he'd gone or why, just one day he was gone, and he never came back. I just assumed he'd gone for good. Didn't think he'd turn up here. I'll go have a chat with him and see what he's got to say for himself," Otis said.
"What, now, or later on?" Charlie said.
"Might go now, while I'm thinking about it. I'll be back later. Give me apologies to Jalyn," Otis said, getting to his feet.
"Alright, seeya round. We won't wait up, will be, boys?" Charlie said.
"You do what you gotta do, okay? See what you can find out," Nelson said.
With a smile and a silent goodbye to Nelson, Otis left the small house and went to find Jalyn, looking for his friend Ulysses. Nelson, CHarlie and Lucky stayed where they were, and the guitars weren't kept in their cases for long as music began to play.
And now, Chapter Eight! :D
Chapter Eight
The art of honesty in the face of danger
Supper came and went with relative disinterest. Charles was absent, having been called to a meeting with one of his commanders. He had given his apologies and prepared supper for them anyway. Without Charles to question Craig's continued presence, it was easy enough for Andrew to take him back to his room again once they had eaten. They waited until William retired to the library to avoid even him seeing them together. Andrew felt a sense of loyalty to the disguised princess now. He held her secret, as she held knowledge of his grandfather's possessions, and obligation demanded he do everything in his power to protect her.
Andrew would hear nothing of sending her back to the barracks. Instead, he insisted she stay with him, at least until he had a chance to ask Charles whether she could assist him, rather than train as a soldier. He was not entirely sure how to approach this. Perhaps Charles could already see the attachment they had for each other. He offered her one of his nightshirts and offered his bed to her. She insisted they share. Unable to say no, he allowed her to do so, and his awkwardness at having a princess curled up beside him did soon pass. She appeared female now, the magic gone. Her hair was longer than he had noticed before, and he could make out the curves of her body beneath the bedsheets.
"I do hope our friendship is not broken by this deception of mine. I had never wished to hurt you. I fear we are bound together now, for better or worse," she murmured.
"I would not denounce you for all the gold in the world. I am unsure how to refer to you now. Should I continue to call you Craig, when you are female?" Andrew said.
She sighed and shifted beside him. "Craig will suffice when I am in the company of others. Call me what you will when we are alone. It matters not anymore."
"You will forgive me for use of the feminine when we are alone then. It is... easier, for me at least, given your appearance," Andrew said.
She glanced at him and settled into his arms again, resting her head on his chest. "I can understand that. What a strange creature I am. I am not used to this body of mine. I have not seen it for so long it is as if it belongs to someone else. I shall have to adjust to it. What a queer thought."
"If it is any consolation, it is a very fine specimen of a female body," Andrew said.
"You are being very kind to me. I have not known many men like you. Hearing the way men talk about women for so many years is not easy. There is something wrong with our society, but I am afraid it will never change. I am intrigued as to why you wear your hair long. I would have thought society would have chastised you for being so unfashionable," Sophia said.
"I am not nobility, I am merely wealthy. This seems to distance me from the sort of chastising you think I deserve. I am not sure why this is so. I have never made a point of courting nobility as it stands. I am too solitary to worry about it," Andrew said.
"You are honest with yourself in a way commoners are. You do not strike me as being so arrogant as others of your position are. You are probably right, however. You would not be seen as a prize to be won or courted. You are too nice, too selfless. You lack their character. I suppose I am also lacking character. I did not wish to be trapped in a palace. Once you have tasted true freedom, there is little to entice you back into slavery," Sophia said. She paused for a moment as she turned to look at him. "You are not a Royalist like your brother, are you? You think as your grandfather does. I can see it in your eyes."
"I am not a Dissenter, but they have my sympathies. Freedom belongs to all men, not just to those of the King. These are not things I would ever say in public. I do not wish to cause trouble, not for me or my brother," Andrew said.
"I have made a decision. One night, you shall accompany me to the Dissenter camp where I have lived for years. I believe you will find it enlightening. The music will sing to you if nothing else does," Sophia said.
"Music? What sort of music are we talking about here?" Andrew said.
"You will find out when we go there. One of our magicians is gifted in musical magic. I am sure you will find it most enlightening as a student not just of magic but of music and of your grandfather's texts," Sophia said.
"I have a feeling I will enjoy it immensely then. I am aware you can cast magic with music, but I have not been able to fathom how it us done," Andrew said. He could feel his fingers tingling at the anticipation of being able to cast with music. He had wanted to try such a spell since he had first heard about it, but had lacked the knowledge to really know what he was doing. It was the downside to being self-taught, and being too fearful to seek out a teacher.
"You will find out when we get there. My understanding is it utilises a combination of a precise score and the correct use of a specially prepared instrument to create the magic. It is much more advanced than a simple hand gesture," Sophia said.
"I should be delighted to learn about it, if you would be so kind as to allow it. It sounds fascinating," Andrew said.
"We shall get your workshop set up first. Do not ask about when we shall go. I shall make that decision when the time is right," Sophia said.
"I will await your word then," Andrew said.
Silence fell over them, and Sophia returned to lying beside him, curled into his arms. Andrew gently stroked her arm, the only show of affection and intimacy he dared show to a princess. It was an intimacy he would have to get used to. They had no one else but each other. Andrew was not sure even his brother could be trusted, and that thought broke his heart. His brother was the only blood family he had. To think he could not be trusted in such secret matters was not something Andrew wished to consider.
There was also the issue that Andrew had never actually lain with a woman before. It was not something he had ever had much interest in doing, and the few times he had attempted to court women in London had gone badly. He was too timid, too eager, and lacked the vain appearance and confidence of self that other more successful suitors had. It did not help that every time he thought about being with another, it felt like he would be betraying Charles. He had promised himself to Charles, even if it would only be a promise between them that society would never recognise.
Andrew could not help thinking how different it was to have a woman beside him instead of Charles. She felt soft and warm, and gave Andrew the sense that he should not hurt her. She was very beautiful, and Andrew felt a special kind of trust that she would consent to such intimacy with a stranger. He was interrupted from his thoughts as he felt her stroke his chest gently. It made him shiver. There was something in the way she was touching him that Andrew decided was a little more than just simple intimacy. She looked up at him and smiled. Andrew was not sure he could refuse the touch of a woman, nor if he even wanted to do so. His body was reacting in the same way it did when Charles touched him, and perhaps Andrew had neglected to acknowledge just how attracted he had become to Craig. Sophia. Whoever she was.
"I do believe you are making me insensible," Andrew managed to say.
"Then do not fight it and let me take you to paradise," she said, giving him a look that sent waves of desire down his spine.
Andrew decided against thinking about it further and let her hand touch his.
Opportunistic Bird Of Paradise
Andrew was awake surprisingly early the next morning. He was a little surprised to see someone sleeping beside him until he remembered he'd allowed Craig to share his bed, and what had happened was more than just sleeping, though Andrew could hardly claim he was an innocent party. He was just as guilty of taking her to bed as she was in instigating their relations. Except... Craig did not look like a man. There was a curvature to his body that was too feminine. Andrew rolled onto his side to get a better look. He hesitated in touching him. Her. Andrew remembered who he really was. It was a strange thing to find a Princess in your bed, even one that did not wish to be treated like one.
"I-I do not know what to call you. How to refer to you. You are female, but..."
Craig yawned and rolled over to look at him. "Hmm? Did y'say something?"
Andrew saw he was naked. His body - her female body was most evident, and Andrew thought it a most inappropriate situation and wished she would cover up. "I-it was nothing. It matters not."
Craig smiled at him and brushed a finger down his cheek. "Hmm, you playing coy again? It's very cute."
Andrew had to admit his confidence was failing. She was a royal Princess, runaway or not, and they had shared a bed together. It was as ghastly a situation as it was intimately enjoyable. "I... I do not normally engage in such activities, especially with someone such as yourself. If we were ever caught-"
"Ahh, but we are not caught, are we? There is no one here to witness us together, there is just-"
"Your most generous Lordship, at your service," Charles said with a flourishing bow. "Andrew. You did not tell me you were bringing a girl home. I was just about to wake you so we might get started on your workshop, however you appear to be occupied so I will leave you to join me to break your fast later. When you are ready. Though if you intend to bring a girl home next time, do not feel ashamed to tell me in advance so I do not disturb you in the morning,"
Charles entered the room and strode towards the bed. Charles had the sort of confidence about him that Andrew had never possessed. Charles would never have difficulty procuring female company. Charles perched on the edge of the bed on the side Craig was sleeping on, attracted to her beauty. Andrew pulled the covers over his head to hide his shame and embarrassment. Craig erupted into giggles, but at least had the decency to pull the sheets around his body. He waved to Charles coyly and winked.
"I do think it is most impolite he did not inform your Lordship of this. You might have to give him a good telling off later, don't you think?" Craig said, putting on his best posh hooker voice. Using Craig's accent would not have been helpful in the slightest.
"You look familiar. Have we met before?" Charles said, trying to get a better look at her.
"I do not believe I have had the pleasure of meeting you, sir," Craig said, offering his hand to him. "Lady Krishna at your service."
Charles kept his eyes on her as he gently kissed her hand. "Sir Charles, at your service. Charmed to welcome you to my home."
"You seem like a proper gentleman. And with such a big house! You are certainly doing well for yourself," Craig purred.
Andrew refused to watch. He could hear the intonation of Craig's voice; he knew what he was trying to do. It didn't mean he particularly wanted to watch. He rolled over onto his back and pretended to go back to sleep. The last thing he wanted was for Charles to touch her. Even though Andrew would never have dared lay claim to Sophia in that way, it did not mean he was fine with Charles touching her that way as well. But that was how Charles got to where he was, and why Andrew would always be asking for patronage.
"I should allow you to dress and then perhaps we should continue this discussion elsewhere in less intimate settings. Shall we eat together?" Charles said, aware he was becoming utterly entranced with her.
"That would be gentlemanly of you, sir. I shall bring our dear friend Andrew down when he has stopped blushing red like a tomato," Craig giggled. "However, I am not sure I have anything to wear that would be suitable to dine with such an elegand Lord as yourself. Would you, perchance, send for a dress?"
"I can have some sent up, my Lady. I should not wish you to feel under-dressed at my expense. Do feel yourself perfectly free to use the bathroom to freshen up. Andrew knows where it is," Charles said.
"I must thank you for your kindness then. I shall happily repay you the cost of the dress, if it should please you, my Lordship," Craig said.
Charles bowed to Craig. "Think nothing of it, sweet Lady. My generosity knows no bounds, and I should be glad to see you dressed as elegantly as your features suggest you shall be. I shall await your presence downstairs. And do not let Andrew hide away all day. We have things we wish to do today that I am sure you are most welcome to assist with."
"Well, I don't know how much help I will be, but I am very good at sitting around looking beautiful, if that is of any help," Craig said.
"It's enough for me, is that not so, Andrew?" Charles said, patting Andrew's leg.
Andrew merely groaned in annoyance. Charles laughed, Craig laughed, and Andrew sighed with relief as Charles bid goodbye and left them alone.
"You really know how to get yourself in trouble," Andrew said.
"Oh, do come out, Andrew. I have saved you the embarrassment of lying in bed with a Princess. He will not find out my true identity. I am merely the daughter of a nobleman. I should think you'd be glad. After all, it solves your issue of what to do with me, now that it appears I have been forced to resume my female identity," Craig said.
Andrew sighed heavily. He had to concede it had been a good move on her part. His part. Her part? He emerged from the covers and sat up, looking at her. "Does that mean I am to refer to you as female from now on? What name shall I use?"
Craig stifled a laugh. "Lady Krishna. I was born in India. My father was a regional governor. I am back in England with my mother in search of a husband. It's perfectly simple."
"I do believe you have just made that up," Andrew said.
"I don't see you complaining. Besides, I believe you have no other choice. I shall do enough magic to make myself look nothing like Craig so he does not stand a chance of realising who I am. And you, dear boy, will say nothing on the matter. Now, we should most certainly wash. I should like to bathe again in that beautiful bathroom," Craig said.
Andrew watched her slip out of bed ever so beautifully. She pulled on a robe, borrowed some shoes, and stopped at the door as she noticed Andrew was still sitting in bed.
"Well, come on, dear. We do not have all day to sleep," she said.
Andrew decided she probably had a better idea of what she was doing and obediently dressed. Together, Andrew made the pretense of showing her where the bathroom was and they indulged in the hot water and scented oils for as long as they felt necessary in order to not keep his Lordship waiting til supper time. Upon returning to Andrew's bed chambers, a most elegant white morning dress and appropriate cosmetics, shoes, and other accessories had been left on the newly made bed.
"Oh, my, your Lordship is most generous. I was going to fake the rest. This is far too much for such a creature as me. He must really like me," Craig said.
"I believe he really does. Now, we should not dally too much longer. I shall help you dress and we shall head down to breakfast. I daresay Charles will not wait forever, and I am rather famished, if I should admit such a thing," Andrew said.
Craig turned to him and rested his hands on his shoulders. "Remember. I am Lady Krishna. You will address me as such. Leave me to deal with Charles."
Andrew looked at her, unsure she could cope as well as she seemed to think she could. "But if Charles should recognise you-"
"I said, leave him to me. I will deal with him. I know how to deal with men like him. Add a little magic, and he'll be mine," Craig said.
"I wish you all the luck in the world then," Andrew said.
Craig smiled and kissed him one last time before leaving him to dress. Andrew kept his distance, discretely dressing while he avoided watching Craig too much. He was, after all, a gentleman, and a gentleman does not watch a woman dress, even if one has already seen her naked. He kept his back turned until Craig told him he could look. Andrew turned to find someone completely different standing before him. Craig had been completely buried. There was no trace of a man anywhere on her features, and she held herself with an elegance only a princess could possess.
"You have outdone yourself," Andrew said, approaching her.
"Well, I am glad you think so. Now, shall we go to tea?" she said, offering her arm.
"With pleasure, my Lady," Andrew said.
Arm in arm, Andrew escorted her down to breakfast, confident their ruse would work, while also being anxious that it would work too well and the night they spent together would be the last before Charles took her from him forever. Andrew would not have dared air such concerns. She would have dismissed them as nonsense. It would also not have stopped Andrew worrying. Putting on a smile, Andrew pushed his fears aside. They were not the thoughts to bring to breakfast.
Breakfast Is served
Charles and William were waiting in the dining room for them, talking quietly amongst themselves. ANdrew didn't know what the paper was that William was holding, nor what it might contain that would necessitate such discussion. Andrew's attention was torn away from the paper to the lovely feast spread before them, with coffee, juice, and fresh bread, amongst other things.
"And so we arrive. Good morning, Charles, William," Andrew said as they entered.
Charles and William turned to greet them. "Ahh, there you are. I was beginning to think you had drowned. Welcome, welcome, come, sit, we shall begin."
"And who might this be, Andrew? Are you keeping secrets from me?" William said, spying the beautiful woman beside Andrew.
"William, this is Lady Krishna. Lady, Krishna, my brother William, and our Lord Charles," Andrew said, introducing them.
Lady Krishna curtseyed and said her good mornings, fluttering her eyelashes in a not-so-innocent manner. William helped her into a chair before taking a seat opposite her, next to Charles. Andrew took his place beside Lady Krishna and prayed to anyone who might listen that their ruse would work.
"This is a delightful meal, my Lord. I am assuming it is as good as it looks?" the Lady smiled.
"Of course. Only the finest, especially for you, madam," Charles said.
Lady Krishna smiled graciously. Andrew blushed a little. With another smile from Charles, breakfast was served, and discussion was most suitable for such an occasion, even if Andrew grew to hate the way she was flirting so openly with Charles. Charles was encouraged by her, putting on his best show of bravado and arrogance. Andrew was not exactly surprised by this. It was just how he was. He wanted to disappear under the ground when he saw William trying to compete with Charles. He wanted to scream that Lady Krishna was his, and his alone, and that no one should dare touch her, but he held his tongue. There was nothing he could offer that could better William or Charles, not to her.
Andrew was waiting for their meal to finish so he could distract himself with setting up his workshop. However, as coffee was being served to finish off, William decided to tell Andrew exactly what had been on that piece of paper he had seen them discussing earlier.
"Andrew, we recieved a letter this morning. From our uncle. I should ask you to read it before I say anything more," William said, handing over the piece of paper.
Andrew did not like the tone of his voice, nor his choice of words, and did not wish to read that letter. He had no doubts it contained nothing that would make his day better. As he unfolded the letter and read it, his fears were confirmed. His day had indeed gotten worse.
"We have been disinherited? Now why am I not surprised. I am surprised it took him so long to do so. We were not exactly adults when he took us into his care. He could have done this when we were but babes and known nothing of our inheritance. Why do this now?" Andrew said.
"Our uncle is foolish. However, I would not doubt a word of that letter. If he has indeed made it impossible for us to prove our claim to our lands, then we are indeed alone, and nothing we can do will stop him. He has our lands now, as well as his own, and all we have left are what we brought with us here. We are orphans now, truly, and poorer than the poorest on the streets. We have nothing to our name. Nothing at all. We are worthless. I will leave you a moment to realise just what that means, brother," William said, and Andrew cringed at the bitterness in his voice.
Lady Krishna took Andrew's hand sympathetically. Andrew took a moment to think about his words before he spoke. "I was always aware I would live my life through the patronage of others. I was not aware it would be quite so essential to our existence."
"You two will cry no tears over it. You will always be welcome in my home, and you have my protection and patronage, should you ever need it. I am not sure what can be done about your uncle, but I will ask some friends of mine to see if there is any way to restore your honour and lands. If you should have a powerful ally, be thankful it is me. We have long since been friends, and I will not tolerate this treatment of you. Leave the matter in my hands. I at least have sway with people your uncle cannot persuade. This will be in my favour, and you two have always been well-respected, in spite of what you may think of society," Charles said.
"You are far too generous to us, Charles. I should not wish to trouble you with our personal matters. You have far greater things to worry about, surely," Andrew said.
"I will not have you disinherited. You are true heirs to your lands, and I will see to it that they are restored to you. You are old friends. Do not think this is too trivial an issue for me. Even if, for some reason, I cannot restore your honour, you will always be welcome here. I would never turn you away, nor do I wish to do so. And you, my Lady, are welcome as long as you wish to stay," Charles said.
"That is most gracious of you, my Lord. I will stay with Andrew, if that is not too much trouble. We are... joined, in a way I cannot explain," Lady Krishna said, looking at Andrew.
"Have you courted a woman and asked for her hand without even telling me, brother? You sly old dog, I congratulate you on your success," William said.
"It is... Well, we are not betrothed as yet. But we may as well be so. I cannot imagine anyone else I should wish to be with," Andrew said. He secretly hoped he could convince both William and Charles that she was off limits. Then perhaps he could stop worrying about her straying.
"He is charming and elegant and I will have no one else," Lady Krishna said, and the look she gave Andrew was the most genuine expression of love and affection he had seen her give.
"I will leave you to yourselves, then, and do let me know if you wish me to arrange a marriage ceremony," Charles said. He was happy to let him marry, if it made him happy. He would have to talk to him in private, to negotiate what would happen between them if ANdrew intended to settle down with a woman, but Charles would no sooner stop him.
"I will indeed let you know if we wish to take you up on that offer," Andrew said.
"I do believe this has significantly cheered the mood for today. Congratulations, Andrew. Now, what shall we do today? I have remembered an errand in town I need to attend to. Should you wish to begin on your workshop down in the old manor house, you are most welcome to do so," Charles said.
"I would like to get working on that, yes. I have missed having somewhere to work," Andrew said.
"Then do not let me stop you. Here, have the keys. I am sure you remember which it is to get in. My servants will be happy to assist in carrying your belongings down there, should you wish it," Charles said.
"I will make sure to remember that. I am sure we will be fine. Should you wish to assist us, William?" Andrew said.
"I will decline the offer. I have my training to attend to," William said.
"Well, I shall not keep you from your work any longer. I shall see you anon. It was a pleasure to dine with you, my Lady," Charles said.
ANYWAY. THAT WAS A LOT TO POST. XD And I'm not quite sure that last scene is properly finished, but it's finished enough to post.
So yes. Not bad for a rough draft. :D
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I know. So close! :D