Come One, Come All

[Sebastian Mannering]

(OOC: Just so we're all aware... Feel free to make separate threads for what your characters are doing at the fair. This thread is for the archery contest itself (and we'll get on with it as soon as Sebby has finished flirting I swear, lol!) and activities like dancing and eating with only a few people are much more suited to a thread of their own. All threads in this area will be assumed as part of the fair so don't worry about making new ones. Besides I certainly don't want to be the one who has to organise everyone posting in this thread all at once ^_^;; )

Sebastian had woken that morning with a feeling of smug self-satisfaction. The fire had been burning merrily in the fireplace, no doubt lit by one of his dutiful servants, and it had done a much better job of warming his room than the fires back in the castle where the cold stone walls and floor seemed to suck the heat out of everything. He'd stretched out, relishing in the warm heavy feeling in his limbs that came from having a good night's sleep in a comfortable bed, and scratched his chin idly while he contemplated the days events and whether or not he needed to shave.

It was the day of the fair, the day he would be officially announced to the people of Knighton as their new lord. He had no doubt that everyone in the village had already heard about him, he hadn't exactly made a subtle entrance by riding through the centre of the square on horseback. And of course the rendezvous he'd had with one of the servants of his household on the first night, with whispers of so much more, had ensured that the gossip spread about him was in a favourable light. There was nothing like treating a woman right to sway her opinion of him.

Of course he'd had to do other things to keep the public interested and not terrified. He had removed all but the dimmest of guards from the town square so that, should a drop off happen, it would go off without a hitch. He had invited all his staff to eat with him at dinner on the second evening and made sure to compliment each of them in some way. He'd organised a meeting with the main traders of the town to discuss business with them and offered those that were struggling a tidy sum provided the knowledge of his good deed was kept in the strictest confidence. He had been quite happy with that touch, it meant that most of the village knew of it by the next day. In short he was wooing Knighton and thus far she seemed to have fallen under his spell.

Over breakfast he'd watched Cumberland, his master servant, organise the final preparations for the fair with quiet confidence. The stages had been erected the night before, the one for the archery stretching out into Knighton square with the target set at 70 yards from where the entrants would stand. To it's right was the raised platform where the lords and ladies could sit and watch the competition, of course Sebastian was sure some of the nobles would try to slip into the crowd and pretend to be nothing more than masked peasants, their identities hidden. Some of them got so enthusiastic about the masquerade aspect of the celebration, Sebastian himself wouldn't dream of standing down amongst the unwashed peasants.

There were also stalls where food would be provided for free for all attending. He'd had to argue with Vaysey on that one as the old man seemed to have some kind of aversion to any kind of charity. Sebastian could see it's uses, he thought of it more as a form of bribery. There was plenty of space for people to gather before the platform where the nobles would sit and Sebastian would make his welcoming speech. This was so that later in the day the minstrels could set up on the stage and the people could dance, and be merry, all the things that were meant to happen at a fair.

In fact everything was running smoothly. Not only for the fair, but for Sebastian in general. He had new lands, he was in Vaysey's good graces and he had a plan, a plan that would take Robin and his outlaws down a peg or two. The people had gathered at the base of the stage and were watching him restlessly. They were already in costume, masks covering their faces and half of them dressed in their Sunday best as they couldn't afford new clothing. Sebastian himself had yet to change into his outfit. It would ruin the disguise if he made his speech in the clothing that was supposedly going to hide his identity. It was time to get things started and so Sebastian stood, approached the edge of the platform and waited for silence to fall.

”My good people,” He said, making an exaggerated sweeping gesture with his arm to indicate all of the people standing before him. ”As your new lord I welcome you all to this day of merrymaking.” His voice was filled with a joyous warmth, as though he was about to break into laughter at any moment. Was he being over the top? Probably. But he did enjoy it so.

”The festivities will start with an archery competition, but then you knew that.” He told them pointing at the archery stage with a self depreciating chuckle. ”You can sign up at any point, just approach my manservant Cumberland with your name and wait to be called to try your hand at hitting the target and winning the prize.” There was a smattering of applause. While the fair had been greatly anticipated, according to the rumours that had been spreading through the village anyway, the peasants were far too used to the nobles organising these events for their own amusement to be really impressed.

Sebastian turned to leave but spun back on his heal to face the gathered villagers at the last moment. ”Oh yes, one last thing,” He said beaming at the crowd. ”As my guests all food and drink shall be available for free.” This had the desired effect and a cheer went up through the crowd. The people of Knighton, and many of the peasants who had arrived from surrounding areas, would not go hungry today.

He crossed the stage, past Vaysey who was no doubt scowling under his mask, and paused at the edge looking down at the short drop from the platform to the ground. Sebastian's eyes flicked to the nearest lord, Javier perfect. He reached out and grasped the man's shoulder to steady himself as he hopped off the edge. Manhandling nobles was another pastime he particularly enjoyed. Without a backwards glance he headed in the direction of Knighton Hall where one of his staff would be waiting to help dress him in his outfit.

(OOC: So Mal and I had a loooong discussion about what day we should make the fair, among other things, and decided that we're making the fair happen on a Saturday. So it is a week and three days since Luke was dropped back in Knighton on a Wednesday and a week and five days since Will was captured by Guy and rescued. Because even though Vaysey rules with an iron fist even he can't organise a fair in five days.)

[xarae]

The sounds of the fair were overwhelming. She felt sick to her stomach from all the noise bursting in her ears. Issie was dazed beyond rational thought, stumbling between blindly. She had washed herself thoroughly and her hair shone in that way that it only did after it was freshly cleaned. There was a dainty blue mask tied around her head with a slightly tattered white ribbon. Blue jay feathers (she silently thanked her father for bringing down the flighty bird) were carefully attached to the rim, leaving most of her face disguised.

At least, enough so that there were no longer whispers following constantly in her wake.

Isabel liked not being noticed, but it appeared she had to sacrifice her sanity to do so. Her tongue almost hurt from tasting so many things, her vision blurred from the masses of colors traversing her gaze. Issie slowed in her step, attempting to collect herself. She managed to stand still long enough to spot a noble leaping down the stage, steadying herself on a familiar man's shoulder. Javier. The name echoed in her skull, but she groaned at the taste on her tongue. She was so sick of tasting things. The loud noises were enough to drive anyone insane, let alone someone who tasted every one of the words uttered around her.

Isabel leaned against the edge of a heavy, food laden table, breathing softly. It was quite hard to maintain her head amongst all the hustle and bustle, but she would try her hardest. Issie was enjoying being unnoticed far too much to leave early.

So she valiantly ignored her rumbling stomach, smoothing the skirts of her blue dress and edging her way between the people, eventually managing to tune out most of the buzz around her. Issie decided she would go in Javier's general direction, perhaps see if he recognized her beneath the silk of her mother's dyed dress and the mask. Issie shuffled past a large man and behind an equally large woman, her blue-green eyes darting about beneath her dainty mask.

Isabel took another moment standing still to calm her frayed nerves, then started off again towards the stage. However, a loose cobblestone in the square tripped her up, and she wound up pitching forward. Issie stumbled, catching herself by wrapping her arms around the nearest individual - who happened to be a nobleman, the very one who had just made the speech.

Mortified, she glanced upward at his face, her mouth a small open 'o,' too afraid to speak. She could only imagine how much he'd yell, maybe even pitch a fit, calling attention to herself. And after that, someone would recognize her and nudge the person next to them.

Then the whispers would start.

I will drink as much limoncello as I can
And I'll do again and again

I don't really care what you have to say
Cause you know, you know you're nothing

[/size]

[Sebastian Mannering]

After his speech was finished the noise level rose considerably as people in the crowd began to talk among themselves. It was only to be expected, the shocking news of a noble being charitable probably had the gossips all in a tizzy. Sebastian continued his journey in the direction of the Hall, but stopped short when he felt a body collide with his. Well really, he knew he was attractive but this was a little much, women were throwing themselves at him! He smiled, amused by his own internal joke as slim arms wrapped around his torso. Out of instinct he set his arms about her too, resting his hands on the small of her back, fingers almost on the brink of being places that they shouldn't be.

Once she had her balance back, and Sebastian had had enough time to really enjoy the feeling of a woman in his arms, he released her. The extra space between them allowed him the opportunity to get a proper look at her. She really was quite pretty, in that quaint peasant girl way, although most of her face was obscured by a mask which made it impossible to tell if her features were as stunning as the rest of her. Her hair was clean at least, shining golden in the sun, and the dress... Well, it would do.

”Oh, I am sorry.” He said, as though the accidental collision had been his fault. ”I didn't see you coming, although how anyone could miss beauty as radiant as yours is beyond me.” He said, giving an embellished bow a mischievous grin gracing his lips. He watched her carefully as he rose, wondering how she would react to the attention. Not badly he hoped, he didn't want to be slapped, he'd been on the receiving end of far too many and knew they weren't pleasant.

”Are you sure you're alright?” Sebastian asked her, now that he was peering closely she did look a little pale. Not that he could see much between the feathers. ”Do you want to come inside and have a seat? I don't want any of my guests fainting on me.” He waved an arm in the direction of the Hall and adopted a slightly teasing tone. If he could get her alone, somewhere private, who knew what would happen. Of course he would be saddened to miss the archery contest, especially if Hood showed up, but it would be worth it. It was always worth it.

(OOC: Shorter than I thought but meh, I've earned the slack today.)

[xarae]

Isabel took a deep breath, smoothing her skirt and adjusting her mask. He didn't seem peeved, or even remotely angered. In fact, he seemed happy she had stumbled into him. She felt more comfortable now, used to the large amount of noise in the crowds. Issie forced a light smile, letting her blue eyes quickly scan his appearance. He was a noble - that much was apparent. Clean kept, gently sweeping brunette hair, and a devilish air about him that made her think that running into him might be more worthwhile than she had originally assumed.

"Sorry?" She managed at last, then shook her head. "Don't be, the fault is mine." At least her mother had taken the time to teach her to speak properly. Then again, that had been before, when she had still thought her daughter had a good chance of getting snatched up by the right man. Now it seemed that Isabel would be lucky if anyone "snatched" her at all.

He seemed nice enough, though by the sparkling mischief in his eyes, Isabel could tell she'd have to watch her step. No matter. Most nobles weren't very clever, and she assumed she was able to beat him at his own game.

His complement was an empty one, as though he had repeated it a thousand times before, but Isabel allowed herself a ladylike blush and bowed her head briefly. "You are only too kind, dear sir," She managed, a hint of a laugh in her voice. Issie had a feeling his entire routine was a practiced one, but she kept her assumptions to herself. It was no use blathering her misgivings to a lord when there might be something in it for herself.

"I'm fine, I assure you," Isabel said quietly, a hint of a smile turning her lips up at the corners. She wouldn't be able to last long now without giggling. The whole situation just seemed totally ridiculous. A noble? Complementing her? "Just a bit startled. Sometimes one simply can't believe their luck, and I am certainly lucky to have fallen into your arms." A smug smile flitted across her lips, if only for a second. Issie laughed lightly as he gestured towards the Hall, tilting her head to the side. This was a dilemma. Trust the word of a stranger she'd barely met, risk her innocence, and follow him? It was positively insane! "That sounds splendid, sir." The heavy word still tasted like ashes on her tongue, but Isabel would continue to use it, if only to be polite. "I would gladly go with you - if I could only have your name." Let the games begin.

I know I sound repetitive
'Cause I'm repeating myself

I'm not competitive
I just want you all by yourself

[/size]

[Sebastian Mannering]

Sebastian raised his eyebrows, delighted to have found someone who was almost as brazen as him. The comment was so forward, and such a refreshing change from the stuffy politics of polite society. If he could have his way conversations would always be this... suggestive. He didn't, however, believe that this masked girl thought herself truly blessed to have tripped into his arms. Just as she had exaggerated the claims of her beauty she was playing on the modesty that a young woman was expected to display.

"The pleasure was all mine." He told her smoothly, allowing his gaze to flick down her form once again leaving no room to misinterpret exactly what it was that he'd enjoyed about having her in his grasp. If she was comfortable with the flirtatious comments then he was always willing to up the game.

His name? Surely it had been whispered around every ear in Knighton by now? He ignored the slight to his ego, reminding himself not to get too arrogant, he wasn't the first lord to gain lands in Nottingham and he certainly wouldn't be the last. Anyway what had happened to the time when a woman blindly trusted a man as charming as himself. Sebastian wasn't sure he liked his new world where women were wary and opinionated. That didn't mean he couldn't still play, he could adapt to fit the situation. If he couldn't he would have been left behind years ago.

"How rude of me!" He said quickly, eyes widening in surprised apology. "I am Sebastian Mannering." He gave another small bow, not as flamboyant as the last one, just a dip of his head and a small wave of his hand. "And you needn't worry, Knighton Hall is my home." Sebastian doubted very much this statement would appease her, it wasn't the place that had put her one edge in the first place.

[xarae]

Isabel laughed lowly as he spoke, keeping her snide comments to herself. "I think the pleasure is equally distributed among the both of us," Isabel resisted the urge to wink at this statement, but instead watched him as he looked her up and down. It had been a good, long time since a man had looked at her like that. Almost with... hunger. She'd forgotten how good it felt to be wanted. The sheer joy of finding someone who didn't know the Knighton gossip thrilled her. It was even better that he was rich - and handsome. If she'd been alone, she might have rubbed her hands deviously together.

Because certainly, only good could come of this?

Isabel smoothed a hand daintily down her skirts as his eyes lingered on her form, her hand pausing for a second at her hips. He had paused in giving in his name, and her anticipation was too great not to show that this made her slightly peeved. Names were what she judged character on, and if he chose to withhold his, she would be gone faster than he could extend a hand to lead her off. She watched him with cool eyes until he spoke once more. Rude, indeed.

His name made her pulse quicken slightly. Though the words around her were muddled, still giving her a headache from the explosion of color and taste, his name seemed to come through quite clearly. It was a burst of mulled spices, the low, seductive flavor of fine wine. It seemed fitting. Isabel smiled inwardly. This would truly prove interesting. Now that she knew his name - and liked it - she felt free to act as she pleased.

Home sweet home, eh? Isabel smiled sweetly at this comment. "Oh, how wonderful." She did, however, restrain herself from offering a hand for him to take, presumably to lead her off and show her the interior of his home. He would have to make that move - she certainly wouldn't do all the work. After that, she wasn't sure what would happen. Though, judging from that glimmer in his eye, he probably knew what he wanted.

I'll put a little sour in your sweet
You've got so much freaking tongue in cheek.

You want what you
Could never have

[/size]

[Lady Liselle]

“I do hope I’m not interrupting anything,” came a sly shot that was laden with innuendo. A slim blonde escorted by a few other ladies and a manservant had been walking towards the general festivities from the direction of the stables, where their carriage was currently being taken care of. Clever green eyes peeked from beneath a mask of midnight blue, adorned with the tips of peacock feathers that set off the emerald-navy shimmer of a form-fitting gown perfectly. The Lady Liselle took care to know about anyone and everyone (particularly bachelors) in her immediate vicinity at all times, and she had no difficulty in placing Lord Sebastian Mannering as he flattered a girl who was obviously nobody important. What luck, to come upon something interesting so early on in the piece!

The Lady herself came to a halt a few paces in front of the hopefully embarrassed pair, dipping into a graceful but by no means subservient curtsey. As the daughter of a Duke she would show propriety but hardly deference to lower-born nobles, and she was amused that Lord Mannering should, in his turn, see fit to flatter the girl with his well-reputed ministrations. He appeared for the greater part to be the Sheriff’s creature and for that fact alone Liselle wasn’t apt to thinking he was entirely stupid. But oh! Men would be men, and whether they were making a pass for an heir with their wives or futtering a dairymaid they were, the blonde lamented, terribly predictable.

Arching her swan-like neck and allowing her head to dip strategically to the right, Liselle offered a smile to the pair who had been caught red-handed in their game of cat-and-mouse, and as she rose from her brief curtsey she found herself suddenly wishing that she had been given the opportunity to witness the dance from afar, if not for gossip’s sake then at least for her own sordid amusement. The ladies surrounding her, who were obviously of lesser rank and title than she, tipped themselves into decidedly less graceful curtsies than the one she had bestowed and waited quietly at her flanks. The sweet smile still gracing her lips seemed affronted and amused all in the one instant, and Liselle thought she would take this opportunity at least to say something a little cunning.

“Lord Mannering,” she offered then with artful innocence. ”You seem to be in exceptionally fine form today.” With the barest hint of a smirk and enough time for the pair to consider the insinuation laid squarely at their feet, Liselle continued. ”With your speech of course – We could hear you clear to the stables.”

[donjavier]

Javier stood next to the stage as Sebastian gave his speech. He had to admit, the guy did have a way with people. He wondered if he himself would ever get the chance to give a speech to a whole village like this. He doubted it, some how. Still, that didn't mean he couldn't enjoy the festivities laid on by other people. It was probably better this way - with someone else paying. He grinned to himself at that thought. He may have on fancy clothes, but he was still happy for other people to foot the bill.

He adjusted the mask over his eyes. It was covered in cream feathers and they kept ticking his face. In fact, his whole outfit was cream and distinctly feathery. It was probably a bad choice, he suspected it would get covered in mud before the day was out. But there was no disguising his Hispanic skin tone, so he'd thought he'd make the most of them.

The crowd broke into applause as 'Bastian finished his speech. Moment later he felt a hand on his shoulder, though his view was obscured by the blinker-like mask over his face which was knocked across his eyes. By the time he's turned to see who it was the man was striding away across the square. He recognised 'Bastian's brown hair and his arrogant swagger, even through a squiffy mask. He wrinkled his nose and removed the thing, trying not to jab his own eye out with any protruding feathers. He suspected his identify would come as no surprise to the surrounding nobles, so had no qualms about holding the mask in his hand for a moment whist he swept his hair away from his eyes, before settling it back across his face.

This time, when he turned back round, 'Bastian was talking with a girl he recognised instantly. Isabel. He frowned slightly at this, 'Bastian had Daine to be occupied with, did he really need to move in on anyone else? Then again, he supposed English nobles had a fairly caviller attitude to wards monogamy. He hadn't failed to notice the way the kitchen girls blushed and giggled whenever 'Bastian was around, perhaps he had given them more than occasion to.

Out of a strange sense of chivalry, and more than a hint of jealousy, Javier set off towards the couple. However, before he reached them, another woman - presumably a noble, given the way she was dressed - arrived from the other side of the square. He wasn’t near enough to hear the first things she said, although he did catch the strains of her compliments to 'Bastian as he got nearer. Looks like the bastado got all the luck.

"Senora Isabel." He pronounced the name with a thick Spanish accent as he bent over her hand to kiss it, winking at her as he straightened up "I did not know that you were acquainted with 'Bastian" He avoided shooting a look at the lord "And who is this, 'Bastian?" He asked, turning to the noble woman he had seen arrive moment before he himself had. "I will be beginning to think that you are keeping things from me." he added, turning to the noble himself for the first time, a grin on his face.

[xarae]

Isabel tensed slightly by Sebastian's side, tilting her chin upwards and glancing over her left shoulder. The Lady seemed terribly self centered. On any other day, Issie would have liked to seen her taken down a few pegs, but today she kept her eyes down. She would gain nothing from behaving like a vile brat in front of Sebastian and the surrounding guests. The girl drew in an measured breath. The blonde woman seemed to think her words frighten, or at the very least embarrass the poor girl, but Isabel had dealt with far worse.

"Nothing, I assure you madame, was interrupted." She kept her head bowed, a brief flicker of a smile flitting across her lips before she straightened her mouth into a fine line, the barest hint of amusement in her eyes. If this woman took pleasure in disrupting others' fun, she would let her enjoy it. For now. However, though she did bow her head in respect, she waited a good minute or two after the Lady had curtsied before doing so herself. The formality was not entirely over pronounced, but it was practiced and smooth. Isabel drew herself up, inclining her head briefly to Sebastian. "Another day, Lord Mannering," She murmured quietly, knowing full well that there would not be another day. Still - it was nice to pretend. Isabel pondered how he might react once he heard he had very nearly invited the village outcast into his home. A suitably pretty social outcast, yes, but a pariah none-the-less.

Isabel found herself liking this mask more every passing moment.

The girl lingered by the Lord and Lady for a few moments, as it appeared the Lady had more to say. When she finished offering her remark, Isabel restrained from snorting in a most unladylike manner. There are few people I'd care to see struck down by lightning in this world... Isabel's thoughts drifted as a familiar, yet masked, form strode through the crowd.

Javier?

Her suspicions were soon confirmed as the Spaniard strode over, greeting her in the same manner he had when they'd first met. She smiled slightly. "Hello." Her voice was a quiet murmur, unsure of what he'd prefer her to call him. Some nobles were quite picky about their titles, and she could barely remember his. Isabel assumed herself safer if she took the coward's way out and didn't say anything at all.

Among the gathering of nobles, she suddenly felt terribly out of place. Javier's words went over her head, only the taste of Sebastian's name making itself apparent. Isabel ducked her head, a stray strand of hair falling in front of her eyes. One of the other reasons she liked her hair loose - it was easier to hide behind. Comfortable behind her curtain of blonde waves, Isabel stared intently on the ground. The idea of leaving with Sebastian was becoming more appealing as her headache developed into a migraine, but she kept still.

Judging by how people were around the pair now, there was little to no chance of getting away.

Isabel sighed softly, lifting her head slightly and tucking her hair behind her ear. Amidst the nobles clothed in finery, she felt quite pitiful in her mother's altered wedding dress. It looked good on her, yes, but at best she could be passed for a moderately well of merchant's daughter, still unfit to be in the company of the noblemen and woman standing about her. Isabel took a soft breath, the jewels and gold thread shimmering on their clothes making her feel claustrophobic. "Would you excuse me for a moment?" Isabel edged past Sebastian, angling her body so neither the Lady or Lord Mannering could see her slide her fingertips over Javier's elbow, giving him a light tug before sliding through the crowd.

At least he'd spoken to her before he'd seen her decked out in her best, and had seemed moderately interested in what she'd had to say. The fact that his name tasted wonderful was merely a bonus. Isabel turned her back on the trio, lingering by a table where ale and wine was being passed about freely. She politely declined and moved onwards, drifting nonsensically through the crowd until she came to the edge of the fair. It was surprisingly calm here, like the eye of a storm - only at the edge, rather than the middle. Isabel breathed deeply, touching her fingers to her throbbing head. She'd given him a choice. He could seek her out, if he wished, or she could continue her "merry-making" alone. Though, somehow, she had a feeling today wouldn't be quite so merry.

Oh now I do recall, we were just getting to the part
Where the shock sets in

And the stomach acid finds a new way
To make you get sick.

[/size]

[Sebastian Mannering]

The girl seemed unusually pleased to hear his name, as though it was some kind of rare treat, and Sebastian frowned. Maybe she had heard of him after all, he hoped she wasn't the kind that was only out for his wealth. Having to promise women money first was so tedious, but he could always test the waters once they were inside and away from prying eyes. And it was important that they got there soon, it would not do for him to be seen flirting so openly with someone of such low standing (it was all very well behind closed doors, but that was another game entirely and as long as the rumours could not be confirmed he could get by without damaging his good name). Besides he had dismissed all his staff, but Cumberland and whoever it was he had told to prepare his outfit, for the day and the servant who had warmed his bed on his first night there would not be pleased to see him moving on to another conquest so soon.

Sebastian lifted his arm for her to take and opened his mouth to enquire her name, he would probably even try to remember it. The question died on his lips though as a voice he knew all too well interrupted. ”I do hope I’m not interrupting anything,” The irony of that statement did not elude him and Sebastian let his arm drop back to his side knowing that the invitation could never be fulfilled with Lady Liselle and her gaggle of assorted ladies present.

”Your company is always welcomed, My Lady.” Turning towards her with a smile and offering up an extravagant bow that almost had him bent double. He resisted the urge to call her Liselle for now, he would gage her mood before he tried to annoy her with his over familiarity.

Lady Liselle was something of a dilemma to Sebastian. When considering her as a potential wife she was perhaps overqualified with wealth and standing to bolster his own, views that appeared to favour Prince John and an ability to conduct herself impeccably in public she seemed like the perfect choice. But factor in her sharp wit and intelligence, her ability to manipulate those that she chose to and her apparent indifference to his charms (although she would never reject him outright, that would be terribly rude) and it had him pitying the man that did eventually win her hand.

”You seem to be in exceptionally fine form today.” The double-edged compliment revived him from his perplexing train of thought. His grin widened impishly, it was always nice to hear good things about his wooing skills, even if they were meant to embarrass.

”Ah yes, it's all in the projection you see.” Sebastian explained, tone boastful. Before he could go further and puff out his chest too far the girl, the peasant girl (who he had managed to quite forget about, Liselle tended to have that effect on him), spoke again. She was leaving? He was torn between wanting to stop her to find out her name, so that he could maybe track her down on another occasion, and his desire to appear not too interested in a girl who was clearly of no consequence.

Javier saved him from making a choice. He knew there was a reason he had shown interest in the Spanish lord. Sebastian had known the day would be busy, but he really had hoped to change into his costume before the games really began, at this rate he would be forced back onto the stage before he even had a chance to set foot in Knighton Hall.

It took him a moment to realise who exactly Javier was referring too when he called someone Isabel. So the Spaniard had met her before? Probably that day he disappeared in Knighton, the sly dog. Well at least he had a name to work with now, he might even be able to make is seem as though Isabel was at least a little more importance than the impression Liselle had of her.

”Keeping things from you my friend? Never!” He said to Javier, mock outrage in his voice even as he slung a friendly arm around the man's shoulder. He was allowed to misbehave, it was his party after all. ”This is Lady Liselle Bassen of Doncaster, another guest of the Sheriff Vaysey.” He did not bother to introduce the other women standing with Liselle. While it would be a slight to their names, as they now appeared too unimportant to be formally recognised, it was a form of compliment to Liselle herself and one that was well worth breaking the rules for.

Smoothing this conversation along was becoming quite the challenge and Sebastian turned his attention to Isabel once again as she asked to be excused. ”Why of course Miss Isabel.” With a smile and a nod he dismissed her. It would not be appropriate for her to remain with so many nobles present and the longer she stayed the more it would remind them that Sebastian had been openly flirting with a common peasant girl. He just hoped the use of her name would be enough to convince Liselle, although he knew she would be too sharp to miss that he had only used her name after Javier had supplied it.

Sebastian wondered idly what Javier would do now that Isabel had departed. He was under the impression that the Spanish lord had only joined them due to his interest in the peasant girl. In truth he did not want the man to leave for he would surely pursue her, and Sebastian never liked to lose game to another huntsman, which would leave him at the mercy of the remaining Lady. How on earth would he escape to change once she had him in her grasp?

(OOC: You'd think with a post as long as that I'd be able to move things along a bit. Alas no, I fail miserably. If anyone needs any more just say and I'll behave and pop in some more ^_^;; )

[Lady Liselle]

People never failed to entertain the rather multi-faceted daughter of the Duke of Doncaster. She relished in watching those who thought they went unnoticed and better still loved noticing those who would have preferred to remain out of the limelight. Liselle condescended to bestow her privileged opinion (in the appropriate soft tones and meek attitude proper to her situation) wherever she went, and it was a case of people either liking her immensely for the genteel woman she portrayed herself as or instantly loathing her owing to the fact that they could see through her carefully contrived façade. On either score Liselle more often than not sought only to please herself, and in the true and faithful pursuit of selfishness she was, therefore, rarely disappointed in her findings. Pleasing oneself was infinitely easier that pleasing the multitudes and definitely more rewarding in the long term.

A well-formed eyebrow hitched itself slightly heavenwards at the young maiden’s insistence that nothing had been interrupted, but Liselle fancied herself quite the usurper. She remained fixed in an expression of childish bewilderment, sort of like the little girl who had been caught by the housekeeper with her fingers in the larder. The addition of the Spanish gentleman intrigued her and she curtsied to him in kind, rising just in time to see the peasant girl skittered away. She fixed the Spaniard with another of her winsome smiles, unleashing the dimples that gave her a distinctive air of innocence.

”Lord Mannering is all politeness,” she ventured, extending a gloved hand to the man graciously before slipping the former gentleman a sly, sidelong glance. ”But even perfect men such as he forget their manners at the arrival of a pretty face, wouldn’t you agree Senor?” Greatly amused, Liselle couldn’t help but remind herself that there were other entertainments to be had in lieu of blessing the deprived men of Nottinghamshire with her company and conversation. She curtsied again to both, retracting her hand and taking hold of the lace fan that dangled delicately at her wrist. She flicked it open aggressively before fluttering it flirtatiously before her face, her smile encouraging.

“Pray forgive me My Lords, but I fear I shall have to cut our little interlude short.”[/b] she managed a slight pout before continuing with devilish insinuation. ”I hope I shall not be devoid of your company for the entire fete, however, but I must see to it that I have a good vantage point for the tourney. Forgive me.” With her smoldering gaze lingering on Sebastian for a split-second longer than it aught to have, Liselle swept past the pair with her entourage in tow, intent on making the most of the fete and all its diversions.

((OOC: Sorry to cut it short, but I thought I should have her exit so that we can get started with the Competition. <3 ))

[donjavier]

Javier found himself worrying as Isabel decided to absent herself from the conversation. Had it been his fault? He could see no other reason for her to suddenly hurry off. Maybe she resented his cutting short her liaison with 'Bastian. That thought only served to fuel his worry - she couldn't seriously have been thinking of leaving with him? He'd heard far to many stories of the other Lord's exploits to take such an idea lightly. But hadn't he himself been thinking of doing the exact same thing with kitchen maids? No, not the exact same thing. Stolen glances, kisses in the corridor, that was one thing, but it seemed to him that if Sebastian hadn't already sired an army of bastards, he soon would.

Suddenly, Javier felt very out of his depth. He'd never had problems bluffing his way through things before, but all this second guessing had left him quite disorientated. Now he was being plagued by thoughts, and something that looked dangerously like morals. He was jerked out of his mental dilemma by a tug at his elbow, though that threw him perhaps even more. Isabel had just walked past him, and the tug had been an initiation to follow. Now he really was stuck. It was all very well, seducing peasants in the market place, he could get away with that, but if he were to follow her now he'd bugger everything up. "Cojones" He muttered under his breath.

And as if matters couldn't get any worse, 'Bastian just seemed to have dragged into some kind of political exchange between him and Lady Liselle. Javier hadn't missed 'Bastian’s failure to acknowledge the Lady's hand maidens and now had no idea how to react. He'd thought he'd prepared him self for every possible situation. apparently not. Thankfully, Liselle seemed to assume Javier would follow suit and held out her hand to him. He took it and bowed low to kiss it, the fabric of her glove feeling strange against his skin. "My Lady" He murmured. He couldn’t help but think of Isabel’s hand, how her fingers were always cool and the way she smelt softly of horses. He wondered ho he could make his excuses without appearing rude or suspicious, then mentally shook himself. This was no time to get attachments to random peasants.

Lady Liselle's question brought him back down to earth. He cursed the fact he still hadn’t mastered the English language, he couldn’t help but feel there was a hidden meaning he was somehow missing. "I'm afraid it would seem so, My Lady" He replied with as much bravado as he could muster, hoping it was an adequate answer "And I'm afraid my costume seems" He snapped his fingers, searching for the word. He hated doing that around other nobles, but it was a bad habit he'd grown into since childhood "ineffective, that you should guess my origins." he said, a cheeky grin forming on his lips. He hoped that at least would distract from his earlier uncertainties.

He was entirely relieved when Liselle also left, ostensibly to find seats for the tournament, though he had suspicions that there were other forces at work. "I'm afraid I too must take must take my leave, 'Bastian, I cannot deprive the ladies of Notting ham any longer" He said, more apologetically than he felt, turning to 'Bastian. When he felt he was at least somewhat out of sight of the Lord, he sped up, looking for Isabel. After some unintentional elbowing and a set of trodden on toes he finally spotted her, standing at the edge of the crowd. He started grinning - it perfectly reflected her personality, she definitely didn’t seem like she belonged in with the rest of the people there. “I never liked tournaments,” He began, once he’d gotten close enough to make conversation. “They are too noisy.”

[xarae]

She watched the goings-on with a reserved eye, trying to keep herself sane by mumbling softly to herself and smoothing out her skirts, albeit a bit distractedly. Her mother had let have the entire day to herself, and now she wasn't so sure she wanted it. So much time, so little to do. After her confusing encounter with the nobles (who knew social deprecation could be in a cleverly disguised greeting?), Isabel was quite content to spend the rest of the day with herself, and perhaps Vern.

Then, of course, there was Javier.

He seemed to be the least threatening of the nobles, accepting her brazen personality and straight-forward manner of speaking with out question. Around the other two - not so much Sebastian as Liselle - she felt like every move was being watched and analyzed. Issie sighed and used her hand to brace herself against the table. Everything suddenly seemed so very complicated.

She recalled herself brushing her fingers across Javier's elbow and lightly pulling, but now she wasn't so sure that she wanted the company. It was already quite hard to figure out what she wanted without the added confusion of the friendly Spaniard.

Issie glanced up, and seeing him nowhere in sight, breathed a sigh of relief. Her hand flexed slightly on the edge of the table, enough to make her knuckles whiten. Everything was so overwhelming. She'd trade anything for a moment of peace, if only to collect her thoughts. I never liked tournaments...

Isabel whirled around, her blue eyes slightly wide. "Lord..." She winced, pressing her fingers to her temples as she sought his name. "de Valencia?" Satisfied with the correct name, she relaxed slightly. "I... apologize, it is all a bit much," She managed at last, her words slightly breathy. She was almost struck blind by the colors colliding across her vision, and in a vain attempt at steadying herself, Issie placed a hand on his shoulder, closing her eyes briefly. It hurt to blink.

"S-sorry, Jav - sir," She stammered, removing her hand and pitching forward slightly. Spots of light were gathering in front of her vision - she was sure this was not some effect of her strange "disorder," as she could feel her body getting lighter. Issie took a deep breath and straightened up, adjusting her mask. She took a small breath, putting both hands on the edge of the table, and blinking twice in quick succession. "I do apologize, I seem to be getting light headed." Isabel felt foolish after saying it, like one of those noble girls who fainted in the sunlight. She had thought she was so much stronger than that.

Isabelle smiled bitterly, then tilted her head back towards the sun, closing her eyes once more. It took a minute or two, but once she had herself collected, she looked back at Javier. This time, she met his eyes with the same boldness she first had. "Would you prefer me to call me by your formal titling, or do you mind...?" She offered quietly, a hint of a smile turning up the corners of his lips.

Some nobles were extremely finicky about their titles, and she was treading dangerous water by simply implying that a mere peasant had the right to refer to a noble using their first name. Then again, she felt slightly safer with Javier. The worst that could happen would be that he would never speak to her again, though considering she'd only known him for a day or so, Isabel didn't consider this a huge loss, even though she did like the man.

Isabel tilted her head to the side, glad she had at least regained control of her sight, and no longer felt so light headed. Glancing over Javier's shoulder, she saw Lady Liselle depart, leaving Sebastian alone. Her fingers drummed against the wooden table, sneaking a quick glance at the nobleman before focusing back on Javier. She decided that she rather liked the Spanish nobleman - at least he seemed a little more lenient with formalities than the Lady or Lord Mannering.

A meter or so to her left, a wagon entered the square with two broad horses drawing the wooden structure, the man atop it shouting cries of free ale from the barrels in back. As more people migrated in their direction, her headache returned in full force. The clanging of the bells on the horses harnesses felt like small pins being driven into her skull. Isabel inhaled sharply, colors once more dominating her vision as the conversion around them skyrocketed. Her mouth opened slightly, as if she meant to cry out in pain, but nothing came. It felt as if her mind were slowly collapsing in on itself.

Her vision was getting spotty, and she could no longer see clearly. Isabelle whined slightly, then tipped forward, catching herself on Javier's shoulders. Her body went limp, head lolling onto his chest. Her breathing slowed, and it soon became apparent she was not waking up any time soon. Issie had never fainted easily, but it was something she did. Her mother had always been proud - like having a daughter who fainted was a good thing. Her mask was tilted rakishly to the side from the fall, but it was not yet off. Though if it was, she'd be the talk of the village for more than a month. Fainting? In a noble's arms?

How improper.

Something's not right
Smiles and tantrums

Hit the ground running
It's all over and been done

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[donjavier]

For the second time that day, Javier found himself worrying about Isabel. She was wincing and she’d spun round so fast he’d though she might fall over. He hadn’t intended to startle her, but was now regretting launching into conversation unannounced. "I... apologize, it is all a bit much," He frowned lightly at the words. Somehow, he felt a little disappointed at the way she was behaving. He’d expected the same brave, forthright girl he’d met a few days previously, not this swooning maid. But he scolded himself for being so heartless. The girl was clearly in some distress, and this was no time to get uppity about her change in manners

Were it not for her clearly distressed state, he would have smiled as she stuck out a hand to steady herself on his shoulder. That was the girl he remembered. No other peasant he’d come across - not here, nor in Spain, not France - would ever have made such a bold move, feeling faint or not. When she nearly called him by his first name, he did break into a smile. He opened his mouth to tell her he didn’t mind her calling him that, but the words never left his lips as the next moment she was pitching forwards again.

She stood very still for a moment or two, and Javier stood, looking on, unable to think of anything that would be appropriate to say in this situation. He left it, deciding that if Isabel was not feeling well, him filling her ears up with idle chatter would not help. Once she seemed somewhat recovered, he felt it okay to at least smile at her, a smile with broke into a grin at her next question “Title’s are empty” He replied, still grinning. “Names are what are important.” He was glad to have Isabel back to her normal self, even if that self was probably the least normal he’d ever met. It was probably extremely improper to let a peasant call him by name, but he wasn’t going to pass up the chance of getting to know Isabel better for the sake of propriety “You may call me Javier.” and then, after a moment’s thought “Or Javi, if you want it”

No one he’d met in England called him by the nickname. He supposed it was part and parcel of being a Lord. But he’d told Isabel now. He wondered if she’d use it.

Javier noticed her look over his shoulder and almost turned himself to see what she was looking at. But he could probably guess. Sebastian Mannering probably made much better company than he did. The twinge of jealousy was the first he'd felt since arriving in England - he'd never thought that you could feel jealousy when you were dressed in the latest French fashions, had a purse full of silver and were going to sleep in a castle that night. It seemed he'd been wrong about that too. He knew he had a lot to learn about English culture - he'd practiced in France, of course, but nothing could have prepared him for the real thing - and he'd never thought to be learning like this.

He was jerked out of his moment of jealousy, however, when an ale cart cam rumbling past the place where they were standing. The crowed surged over towards them and Javier had to prevent himself from covering his ears at the sudden explosion of noise - It would be a most un-lordly thing to do. Even to him, the noise and pressure of the crowd seemed a little overbearing, but it seemed to be having a much worse effect on Isabel. Her breathing had become erratic and her brow was furrowed as if in pain. Before he could ask her if she was alright, she'd collapsed against his chest, arms grasping his shoulders for balance before going limp.

Perhaps he shouldn’t have told her to call him by name.

He threw his arms round her waist automatically, making sure she didn’t fall to the ground. He looked round, ever so slightly panicked. He knew what to do - get her somewhere quiet, lie her down and find some smelling salts - he just wasn't sure he should. He was meant to be a lord, and he was fairly sure most lords didn't tolerate peasants fainting on them. He groaned inwardly, and looked down at the recumbent figure in his arms. Lord or not, he wasn't the type of person to abandon someone who'd just fainted. He just hopes he wasn’t signing his own death warrant. Quickly scanning the crowd, it seemed no one had noticed yet, so he scooped her up in his arms and headed towards the only place he could think of - Knighton Hall.

He found the foyer of the building deserted - presumably all the servants had the day off to join in with the festivities. Stepping quickly over to a wooden bench, he lay Isabel down and began looking around for something to fan her with. He wondered distractedly if Sebastian had any smelling salts in his house, though he would never dream of investigating. He was already in an awkward enough position without being found wandering round someone else’s home.

He sighed softly as he walked back over to where Isabel was lying. Well things were certainly panning out differently to how he’d expected. Kneeling down, he took the girls hand in his own “Creo que vas a ser peligrosa” He murmured.

[xarae]

Some people have wild revelations when they faint, or claim to have found visions of gods. Isabel merely saw black. Black, black, black. An endless expanse of black. She loathed the color of black. It was dull, unimpressive, and tasted of cold wood chips. Perhaps she managed to rouse herself simply because of her hatred of the color, because within ten or fifteen minutes, her eyelids began to flutter.

Once she regained consciousness, she drew in breath with a staggering gasp, pushing herself up. Someone was holding her hand... Isabel glanced down to her left, seeing Javier on his knees by her side. "J-Javi?" Her voice was rather muddled and confused, and her tongue felt too big for her mouth. Isabel swallowed and ran her free hand through her hair, dislodging her mask in the process. The cumbersome accessory fell down the bridge of her nose and came to rest at the hollow of her throat, the feathers tickling her skin. Issie ignored the prickling sensation and looked down at the edge of the bench, where his hand was still holding hers. A smile twitched at the corners of her lips, but she didn't remove her hand.

"Er - that is, you did say I could call you that?" She said, slightly flustered now. Her memory was slightly spotty, but she was sure it would come back soon. Issie turned her body so that her legs were no longer out in front of her. It felt better to sit normally on the bench, though as he was still kneeling, it was a bit uncomfortable.

Still, she couldn't shake the feeling of how nice her hand felt in his. However, she figured if she kept the hold any longer, he might get uncomfortable. Isabel slowly maneuvered her hand out of his, sliding her fingers free and placing her hands in her lap. "What exactly... happened?" She said curiously, tilting her head to the side. Her hair fell into her eyes, and with an exasperated sigh she pushed it back. Isabel glanced momentarily towards the entrance of the Hall, wondering if anyone planned on entering. If it was one of the villagers, and they recognized her... Issie blushed lightly, but didn't explain why.

With deft fingers, she adjusted the white ribbon tied to her mask and retied it around her eyes. Feeling safer behind the parchment-feather-and-silk creation, Isabel leaned back until her spine touched the wall. She sighed quietly, a soft smile on her lips. It was cool and silent within the walls of the Hall, much better than the hustle and bustle of the outside fair. "Oh, thank you for bringing me in here. It's so very nice - and much quieter."

Issie was indeed greatful to the Spaniard, and some part of her (the part that was truly insane, she supposed) wanted to thank him for holding her hand as well. She hurriedly pushed that desire down, biting hard on the inside of her cheek to keep herself from opening her mouth.

Issie's fingers began to drum on the wood of the bench, her eyes artfully sliding just above his now slightly mussed hair. The girl figured she would wind up blurting out something totally "unladylike" if she met his dark eyes, though for all intents and purposes, she was doing a good job of pretending to meet his gaze. "I do not think I like tournaments. Too noisy, too..." Issie shook her head, seemingly at a loss for words. Tournaments were "too" everything. Her fingers paused in their motion as she realized how annoying it must sound.

"Er, anyway, thank you for... taking care of me, I suppose."

I've seen better days
Maybe even weeks

When I'm thinking of you
You're thinking of me

[/size]