Araminta slept so deeply, dreamlessly, so late into the morning it almost seemed as if she were never going to wake up at all. Barely having moved during the night, except when Theon shifted his weight and just by proxy of closeness she’d shift too. It wasn’t until the sun was high in the sky, blazing that noon light through the cracks of the window shudders, and the shouts of angry merchants fighting over a primed spot did the slumbering princess finally stir.
Reluctantly at that. Feeling heavy, groggy, and oh so fuzzy on the inside. These days such a thing was normal to Araminta, so she wasn’t as concerned about it as she should’ve been. Assuming that well… when one had a comfy sleep, of course they didn’t want to come out of it. Being so exhausted was a natural state!
Even as she lay there, the princess considered not getting up at all. How nice it would be to roll over and just return to drifting off. Yet, there were things she needed to get done and new plans to arrange. As much as she would’ve loved to extend their stay in Essurn, now that at least one dangerous person they were in the city, it wouldn’t be long before others did too. She and Theon would have to adapt the way the traveled and rested to be sure it was harder and harder to track them.
Like a zombie rising from the grave did Araminta finally dig up the will to sit up, brushing her fingers though long strands of ebony hair to attempt to smooth it back to an acceptable state. Glancing about curiously to see if Theon had fallen into her sleep-trap or if, as usual, he’d been up since the crack of dawn to do Theon Things while he waited for her to return to the land of the living.
While he might have made the internal decision to start amending these little flaws and quirks that were doing little else besides hindering any sort of personal growth, it did not mean he was about to suddenly start snoozing like the rooster hadn’t crowed at dawn. Rising before that to handle the one that had been hired to do a job. A little shocked perhaps in some vain that the woman was in fact there when he managed to migrate himself out of the room and down then out of the inn with a glance to the sibling of Mary Beth; to the woman that waited. And was promptly given a payment for the lack of job completed. Leaving her properly speechless. Not that she seemed upset about it, merely taking the few gold coins to promptly disappear into the waking night.
Leaving him to only temporarily slide back indoors to make a vague commentary to the male clerk that he would be slipping out for a few minutes. Earning little more than a shrug and lack of interest. Wise. It wasn’t in the clerk best interest to go about putting his nose where it didn’t belong.
Allowing the disappearance to be completed and one more reappearance after maybe twenty or so minutes. Giving him a slight look to where there was a bit of fresh produce gathered but otherwise nothing more was uttered.
A slight watch as he reclimb-ed those stairs. Pushing into the paid room to arrange the bits of fruits out onto the table before going about is effort of actually doing something that had seemed like also pulling teeth recently. Actually having a proper hot bath. After a bit of personal grooming that tidied up the beard and red locks. Spending a good time doing so before soaking likely a good couple weeks of grime from his flesh.
It was a good while even after he had cleaned and sorted himself into potentially feeling more like a person than not, it was still a good while till Araminta awoke. And he was once more situated on the couch, eating that of procured fruit with careful insistence to try whilst returning to the means of finalizing the repair of armour.
As Araminta expected, when she did slip out of bed and step quietly into the main room of the suite, there was Theon right where she knew he would be. What she hadn’t expected was the fresh cut and groomed features – neat, tidy, quite sharp even – making the man look more like a polished prince than the scruffy huntsman that’d been her companion for the past few weeks. Even as she tip-toed closer, completely unable to stop giving him a curious look over with those green eyes, he just… seemed different. A good kind of different.
Finding her place to sit there on the floor next to him, it was impossible not to notice that faint smell of the soap Mary Beth had given them. Not that Theon had smelled noticeably awful before, only well… He’d finally taken that hot bath and all Araminta could do was grin wider and wider. Scrunching up her shoulders as if she were about to launch into all sorts of praise, but somehow keeping it stuffed down to a soft giggle. Otherwise her silliness might scare him from ever taking a bath again!
“I slept late, I’m sorry,” she deemed to say instead. Almost itching to reach up and flick her fingers through that red hair now that it was all shiny and freshly cut. What an awfully inappropriate thing to do! “You’ve been busy, though!”
Running thumb through the inline padding to feel whether or not a stitch may have been missed, her approach was that of rising intrigue. Unsure if he was feeling her gaze or if it was simply a misplaced sensation. Daring not to steal a look up in case there was a young woman staring at him as though he had become an intruder within the room. Holding a vase to crack over head out of self defense or something equally barbaric and wild.
Instead, she seemed to slowly shimmy herself over. Coming to sit upon the floor so that he was freely able to adjust the line of sight from armour piece to instead lay over her. Watching silently as she seemed to be thankfully bright-eyed and bushy tailed. Watching full mouth starting to spread apart into a grin that he wasn’t sure was of puckish nature or something else entirely! Just that it was rather wide eventually and pulled back with a gentle apology about sleeping in late. “You do not need to apologize.” He wasn’t sure why she slept as late as she did but he also just assumed he didn’t know what a sleeping routine was! So fairly, he was hardly about to shame her for it.
Smoothing thumb once more before he seemed satisfied with his repairs. Setting it aside to the floor to stand on its own. “I was thinking of what you had said. Last night.” Rings of polished argent flickered in thought. From her to the floor and back. “To lean on another… it is an alien concept. But… it is not a wrong concept. Just unknown to that of myself, alongside many other things. And unless I wish to return to the former life of a collared slave to a woman that is neither a proper queen or parent, then… I have things I need to start changing. To be able to consider myself valid to someone of high caliber such as yourself.” Theon adjusted his posture to lean back somewhat. Balancing elbows upon knees. Bridging hands together with a hold to keep them fidgeting while talking. “What… I was or who… should be a past reference. Though it is no easy feat and doubtful to be corrected even in months time. But not impossible, this… is something I am seeing and learning from your example.”
He made a slight tip to the fruit on the table to reference she best get some vitamin c into herself. “Taking care of myself… is not a privilege as I’ve been taught. One given only when I’ve succeeded whatever task was placed upon my shoulders. If I am to be of value and help to you in whatever endeavour then… it is necessary to start shedding albeit slowly, that of whom I was.” Allowing a moment to drift off into silence, he knew the next part was required to say.
“I lied to you. Last night.” Theon looked to her forwardly, “And for that… I will make amends for.”
These were quite heavy thoughts for so early in the day, yet Araminta kept her mouth shut and listened. For Theon spoke with depth so rarely, that when he did speak it was important to let him do so freely. Even when she wanted to immediately interject that he shouldn’t put her on such a high pedestal, when she didn’t belong there!
How proud she was, though, that he’d finally come to realize that he was allowed to be his own person. To exist as himself and take care of himself, not just exist idly by at the whims of someone else. He was free and could live as he wished – this was everything she could’ve hoped for him. Even if there was still that little hint he was doing it for her sake, this would be nothing but good for him in establishing boundaries with those that’d take advantage of his generosity.
“You are my friend even if you did nothing at all, Theon,” she at least tried to reassure him. They were now bonded by whatever the invisible thread of friendship was. There was nothing he ever needed to do to earn her care.
With his gesturing she did pick up one of the fruits – a bright sweet smelling thing that required a little peeling. Turning back to him curiously with a dubious look at this confession of lying to her. Checking over his form again, assuming he meant he lied about being fine after his run in last night. He may well be wounded after all!
“There’s no reason to make amends, you are alright at least?” she asked, just in case.
“I don’t think I would ever be comfortable doing nothing ever.” There was a lot of truth behind that statement. Knowing that Araminta might have been accepting truly if he had proven that he was about as useful as tits on a bull. Content to laze around and lift nary a finger in any sort of situation, but the very thought alone was enough to make his back itch. Knowing that even if he wanted to start stripping away the decade’s worth of servitude and unholy expectation from his being, it was unlikely he would completely stop being someone that had to do something. The idea of sitting still for hours on end, sounded awful.
With her selecting a particular fruit to make it into her next morsel of a meal, the way she looked at him and suggested there was no reason to make amends, caused his head to shake. “For this, it is necessary. I know what guilt feels like at least and if I wasn’t to do something in regard to what I am about to explain, I don’t know if I could look you in the eye any longer.”
Tapping fingers upon that of opposite knuckles, outwardly he hummed. Internally, he was finding a series of words that had not yet been uttered past lips at all. “When I stated that I would visit a place to replenish the herbs of my selection, it was a lie. Instead I went down to what I suppose one would consider slums. To a bar that is known for souls who will do the sort of work that is entirely unsavoury to plain madness.” Guilt sat upon his Adam’s apple but one did well not to silence off the telling of truth. “After Lady Thebe… knowing that the Imperial Queen has those of hungry variety out putting new targets upon that of my back … … I did not wish to see you endanger. I could not stop everything naturally. That would be impossible.” Knowing that his idea would not be all encompassing of course, “I went to employ a woman close to your own height. So that in mid twilight of the night, I would leave. With her. To hopefully pull any eyes that may be watching to assume we fled. To hopefully give you a chance to return to the trials.”
Freeing hands from another, one moved to idly trail along the clean state of bearded jaw. A thoughtful gesture even if it was somewhat fidgety. “However as I returned and things were said last night.” A peek to her was given then, “You stated leaning on another. And it was in that wording that I came to realize that even if I wished to do something such as leaving you behind with intentions of pulling other focuses away… it would merely be leaving you alone. Again. And that… bothered me. No one should be alone as you have been prior. . .”
Still dubious that he’d done anything worth apologizing for at all, Araminta listened. With every statement uttered, finding herself intrigued with the steps of planning. Unsurprised that Lady Thebe had indeed rattled him so much that he’d sought to do something immediately about it. Yet, what she was assuming would be a midnight escape of them both together turned out to be an plan to bolt out of town with an Araminta Stand In.
He intended to leave her.
The sudden twist of panic in her chest stabbing deep came so fast, Araminta couldn’t have hid the expression on her face even if she had tried. All of those thoughts and emotions flickering in her features in quick succession – surprise, horror, hurt – she didn’t need to say a word for it to be very well apparent what would’ve happened if he actually carried out his plans. Araminta would’ve been fully and wholly devastated.
“…I am glad you decided not to go,” she said softly, reaching up a hand to press against her chest where her heart was still stuttering in that panicked staccato. He hadn’t gone, she was alright! “I’m not sure what I would have done if you had.”
That mystified honest reply… what would she have done! At the moment she wanted to burst into tears and he hadn’t even gone! Would she have waited? Would she have gone to look for him? It sure wouldn’t have been good, that she could be certain of.
Features widened and observed in a sense of curious awe when her features that were so close to studious as he spoke, broke open to reveal a blanket of new ones that he was sure he had not seen on such a lovely visage before. Maybe the surprised one but horror and hurt, they might as well have been things Araminta had never heard of. For she seemed so resilient even with her leg and weight of the world around her. However baring witness to this expression now, it made sense to him why he had felt the sense of guilt. To see just how much this would have been the wrong move to make.
Never mind that damn flitting heartbeat again while he dropped grasp away from playing upon jaw. Laying in silent hold upon knees, letting her process and understand this was why he knew it best to tell her the truth. Even if it hurt her, he didn’t want her to think him so underhanded that this was merely a passing breeze.
“I did not want to hurt you any more than you have. I wanted to tell you the truth of the matter this morning. I did meet with the woman I hired as well… I paid her as well to do nothing. Regardless, this all. . .” emptily he motioned with other hand around them. “Is why I owe you an apology and the truth. I will work to make those amends for truthfully, I merely wish to see you succeed and the idea that the Imperial Queen has lumped you in with my eventual demise – it made it difficult to think of you being subject to any of this. I had thought this was the right course but it was not. In the future I will be sure to tell you when I am worried of this nature.”
Was this the part of leaning on her even if he wished he could have just waved a magic wand around to make it all better. “It may be one of the few times I am grateful that I am not full fae. One could only imagine what I may have done in reply with the full abilities at my disposal.”
No less, he bowed his head properly to her. “I am sorry.”
Araminta was truly and wholly speechless, trying to process it all in the bigger picture and not just focus on her own fears. Had he gone, it would’ve been from care for her, not to abandon her… and even better he clearly cared enough to realize that to vanish in the middle of the night would’ve hurt her so much more than any perceived threat from his wicked mother and whomever decided to come searching for them.
Cementing in her mind that Theon was a gift. A truly precious gift.
Setting aside her half peeled orange, Araminta shifted to her knees and scooted over to throw her arms around him in a tight squeezing hug. Still finding it hard to say actual words with the hard lump in her throat and that ache in her chest, grateful at least that he was still there and trusted her enough to make such a confession.
After a long moment she did find her voice again.
“…is this a bad moment to admit I also lied as I wasn’t scared to sleep, I just wanted you to have a good night of rest in a bed?”
Quietly they sat there for a moment. Words hanging in the air before he found Araminta rising up and shortly looped about his shoulders in a squeezing embrace that did catch him off guard. Scooting back himself with hands looming out to the sides as if he didn’t know what the hell to do with them at all. Lurking things that had no business lurking!
Before his mind spoke that if he wanted to keep trying to do better, this was a moment of that. Tucking palms down to lightly pat at her shoulders in a very much there, there motion.
Till it slowed at the whole mention that she had used the means of being scared as a way to encourage him to come to room. To lay down. Under the master plan of him laying in an actual bed. “I will try to rest in a bed when it can happen. Just—there is no promise. But merely trying.”
A gentle patting was made to her once more. “Perhaps… this is where we both agree to say what we mean more often?”
Araminta lingered there a while longer, reluctant to let him go at all. Knowing that hug was not actually for his benefit but for her, who had very much been shaken up at the idea of once again tackling the trials and everything else in the world all by herself again. Once she did finally pull back it was with a brief press of kiss to his cheek, and then a swipe of her thumb when she remember that might not have been so comfortable when his skin had been so scorched the day prior.
“Well, I do promise. I promise to trust you, to speak plainly and not assume it will scare you away.” As that was the root of her fears, after all. That she would become too much, through her constant pestering, through all of her troubles, that one day it was going to be one request too much and he’d be overwhelmed and leave.
He’d proven now by sheer accident that when the moment came to run, he decided to stay instead. That meant the world to her.
“It really was a good idea, a decoy…” she said then, leaning back to a proper distance. Then – like a light coming on – her expression shifted to something curiously thoughtful. The wheels in her head turning as a new idea began to percolate until it clicked into place and she was scurrying up to her feet to go searching for her bag.
“It’s actually quite a genius idea! A complete misdirection!”
The hug he was getting used to. The kiss to the cheek?
Immediately sent him aflame. Mind fizzling out in a static screech. Heart practically making a violent imprint upon ribcage. Almost feeling like he ought to be like a housecat turned to obnoxious purring with the barest affection. Be it from something so abrupt. So unfamiliar. So unexpected to happen to him and honestly… he didn’t know what to make of it. Just that it sent him feeling so many new sensations that even as she slipped back to sit as proper as she could; he was left speechless.
So… maybe like himself then. Nodding to agree that he would speak as plainly as he could when he found the right words to tell her the muddle of thoughts he could have. And approved that she would not scare him away. If he could put it into articulated words, he’d likely tell her that he found her hard to be away from.
Trying to calm down the motion of his chest for now, while it seemed something about this conversation sparked a plan. “What… do you mean?” Theon stumbled out as she suggested it was a genius idea at all. “What would you do with that idea now?”
Unaware that she’d sent the poor man into a fluttering spiral, Araminta dug around in her bag until she found those collected sheets of parchment, the vial of ink, feathered quill, her map covered in a scribble of notes, and most importantly, her little gold signet ring. All of which she brought over to the table, arranging them neatly for use. The map unfolded to reveal a list of notes along the backside, presumably a full list of the twelve kingdoms and some of the ruling nobility in them.
Araminta settled back down on the floor to uncap the vial, dip her quill and immediately started scrawling words in an elegant and fluid script.
“We shall take a page out of the Imperial Queen’s gossiping handbook,” she declared with all confidence. “If she is telling everyone that you are out and about aiding me with the trials, then I am going to confirm it. A letter to all the ruling nobles of the kingdoms that we are nearby and soon to visit them, as is the Imperial Prince’s right. The entire lot of them will scramble to prepare for us, and should they speaking amongst each other they’ll be ever more confused about exactly where and when we’re going to visit whom.”
He was that of her witness. Merely missing the moment to pull long legs up to criss-cross upon the couch with gawking wander. She went to her bag and came back with an armload. Arranging each piece onto the table that he went and moved her orange out of the way. Alongside the half nibbled apple that he had been attempting to eat knowing it had been in someone else’s possession.
No, he couldn’t think about that. Again.
Instead, he arranged to lean forward. Cradling the orange by its peel that hadn’t been well… peeled back. Being the spectator watching that of whatever newest idea had come together in Araminta’s head, start to unfold upon paper. Stroking quill showing the elegance and training of her noble roots, while curiosity grew two fold. Almost frowning at the suggestion they were taking a page from the Imperial Queen’s book. A book that maybe ought to be burned.
With due patience to hear the entirety of Araminta’s spur of the moment genius, he was a little surprised at the idea that she would write to each ruling party suggesting that he was going to make a visit. “Will they believe such things. I’ve… never been treated as the Imperial Prince. Nor… acted like it. Would that not put a hole in this?” By all means he was hardly even mockingly deserving of the title. Nor did he even really want it at this point. It was just a ugly reminder that he was no more than Heirra’s handmade puppet.
“In this case, the reputation she forced on you will be an advantage,” she explained, pausing long enough to glance up at him. Momentarily struck again by just how much he looked the part of a prince when he was nicely trimmed and cleaned up. Araminta vaguely thought that Mary Beth deserved quite the tip for choosing the most perfect scent of soap that seemed to suit him.
…why was that distracting, she needed to focus!
“It’s already unusual that you’ve joined me for the trials, to hear that you’re planning to visit them in their own kingdoms and homes as we travel… Queen Heirra herself is so vague, never actually saying she wishes you killed, they’ll not know what to think about you openly, fearlessly, walking right up to their doors and knocking. With fair warning too! Is it because the fearsome hand of the Queen has decided to strike them before they strike you? Or is Queen Heirra testing them to see who would dare try to strike a hand at the Imperial Crown.”
Araminta paused there, wrinkling her nose now that she’d explained it all out loud. Second guessing the idea.
“…at least it feels like something she would do. Confusion is the key, as we’ll avoid them altogether.”
Lips parted ready to counter the suggestion that Araminta had and yet… those very same lips closed. Now intrigued just how this woman’s dangerously intelligent mind was grinding the cogs. Offering his best attentive look in hopes it openly expressed that he was waiting for her to continue. And not to just peek at him for some reason or another. Had he known he made such a difference in features with a proper clean up, he might have grown embarrassed to be so different. Like the wild and civil were at war with his features. Idly instead brushing thumb over the scarred portion of mouth out of mere listening motion.
Finding that the eloquent explanation left him figuratively dizzy. That in a manner of a few minutes, Araminta learned a perfect way to take Heirra’s vague suggestion of him accompanying the Caeldalmor princess and pairing it with his known former behaviour as being the woman’s personal attack dog. It was… brilliant. Actually more than that but he couldn’t think of a better word to describe it. Taking known facts rather than fabricating some grand lie, instead this was using what was already given. Twisting it about face and leaving those around them to panic potentially instead.
“My mot—” Theon paused, thought and shook his head. “The Imperial Queen is the sort that demands complete obedience. And would not take even the barest slight in mild amusement. She might smile about it in front of the person, but that would only be a false pretense. So yes… this seems like something she would do.” He dared to confirm with an added nod of head. “Her appearance, her control, her rule is meant to be absolute. A stray hair would be enough to warrant the utmost demonstrative strength of her power.” Momentarily he gave a pause, “I’ve killed others for a mere look at her declaration.”
Though she was pleased to hear this idea hit the nail on the head and might do just the trick, it was his last statement that earned him a softened expression. Not pitying or condescending, just a gentle empathy about the life he’d had to lead before. Araminta knew that she’d come from a place that was sheltered – that in many senses she might’ve even been considered naive. But she wasn’t a fool and she knew well the roles and expectations that came with a crown and the people who obeyed it. Even in the best of kingdoms with a ruling family that was kind and valued life, orders still might come for darker deeds for the good of the kingdom.
And in the hands of someone like the Bloody Queen Heirra, those orders came far too often and without rhyme or reason. A tremendous abuse of her power.
Turning back to her letter, Araminta finished it up with a few remaining words and then finally scribbling her own name and title at the bottom as proxy to the Imperial Prince. Princess Araminta Caiolainn Dalgaard of Caeldalmor
Then she paused, glancing at her assortment of items with a frown.
“…I’ve forgotten about wax and envelopes. But those should be easy enough to acquire? Then we can leave them with Mary Beth to drop them off with the nearest messenger as we get out of Essurn as quickly as possible.”
He waited. Patiently while allowing the means of this new little plot to develop into a concrete hold within his mindscape. Searching for anything that might be vital to express to Araminta that could make or break this particular idea she had. Nothing was standing out and he was sure they would be able to use this to their whims for a bit of time. Not all the twelve kingdoms were close in proxy for ease of communication. If they were summoned to that of the Imperial Castle, then it might make the news spread quicker.
It was a curiosity that he wasn’t sure he wanted to see unfold or not.
Thumbing jawline a while longer till she mentioned Mary Beth. “Do you want Mary Beth to be the one to do so? We do not know whom is nearby and watching our current location as is. It could be potentially dangerous to use someone that has come to know either of us.”
Araminta fanned the paper with her hand to help the ink dry a little faster, pausing only when he mentioned it might be a danger to let Mary Beth be involved even in the tiniest of ways. Prompting the princess to reconsider how exactly they were going to have these letters delivered while they made their hasty escape.
The harsh reality was that anyone they came in contact with, even in the miniscule of degrees might find themselves in trouble should some mercenary or assassin without any scruples come searching. Yet, Araminta was also confident that such types – at least the successful ones – knew how to be discreet with where and how they did their business. Leaving a wake of bodies and abused souls would not be a stealthy way to go on a hunt.
Still, better to limit the dangers.
“Hmn, then should we find an unsavory sort to take them to post?” she asked him, assuming that he must have ideas of his own. Already setting aside her first letter to start on the next. “You could find the rest of what I need while I finish all of the letters, then this evening we can hand them off and leave town?”
“An unsavoury sort who is smart enough to evade trouble doesn’t come in the morning. Less they want to prove they are less of the brilliant type.” He offered back before opening his hands in gesture. “As last night. I went out after the sun was down knowing where to look. Such places aren’t welcome to the public in the daylight for they are absent, closed or hard to find.” However, if this was something she wanted him to work on, he could.
“If you want me to go looking, I will.” Stating it outloud so she knew where his wagon of thought was going. “We could merely go to that of a postal exchange here for one letter. Leave and go elsewhere for something else. I am not sure we have attention upon us currently, it is merely precaution.”
However… “We could return to the minstrel place. And listen once more while asking the bartender if they have a discreet contact that could make the deposit of letters while we stay at the tavern. Playing the part of listeners once more and using the system of an known place to complete the work. There are runners for places such as taverns that go out to do various things. Delivering letters to be mailed, would hardly be out of the normality.”
“I don’t know much about the underworld of crime and sneakiness,” she admitted, with no embarrassment about it. For certain not as a royal, but even in her present life of being a homeless wanderer, Araminta hadn’t stumbled into dark alleys and made business with those that seemed shifty. Deliberately avoiding such places simply because, well… one could take a single look at her and know why! She’d be eaten alive! She might be able to make good deals and avoid being swindled, but the second someone tried to rob her and snatch her off the street there was little she could do about it. As was proven by a band of scoundrels already!
“I like your idea,” she affirmed after thinking it over. “If there is a spy watching, we’ll seem as unconcerned as always. And should someone come questioning cityfolk, they’ll not get much but boring answers.”
Stopping her scrawling again just for the sake of shooting him a smile, she beamed.
“It’ll be nice listening to the music one last time too!”
If he was prone to smiling, he might have done it just then. To hear the obviousness that she had been properly loved and sheltered from the underworld of seedy business. Alas the very nature of making such a bend in his face was both too strange to happen and likely terrifying. Pretty sure he had never smiled in his life, now would not be a good time to start.
Settling for a good steady nod before putting down the orange he was still holding to the table. With a silent motion that he thought she may wish to continue eating.
“That would be the best. To appear as nonchalant and unknowning about it all.” Theon moved then to start picking himself up from the couch. Taking his armor that had been suitably repaired, feeling a sort of warm watery feeling flush when she was so easily offering him a star-speckled beam. Starting to worry that this sensation of fluttery that happened to his chest was highly irregular. Likely going to be a need to see a medic or a healer sooner than later. “We will spend time there to assure you get your fill before needing to carrying on.”
Araminta had already resume finishing up the second letter with quick ease, to glance at the half peeled orange with a blink of confusion before remembering that was her chosen breakfast snack. After giving the second parchment a wave of her fingers to dry the ink, she set it aside to resume her peeling of the citrus down to the meaty fruit within. Popping a piece in her mouth only to quickly make a face. The taste was lovely, the texture… very pulpy! Perhaps not something she’d like to eat again in this form.
But since she was not apt to waste food and thankfully did not have Theon’s tender stomach, Araminta was going to eat it anyway.
“Wax and envelopes,” she reminded him as he stood to get ready. Glancing him over once more, for no particular reason. Maybe to cement this tidy look of his in her mind. Silently pondering that he was overdue for some fresh new clothing himself and he’d look awfully nice in a tunic of blue or forresty green. Thinking that soon they could deviate to the north and visit Matilda’s clothier friend. Now that Theon had purchased her some new clothes, she could trade for something Theon could use instead.
“Maybe you should take the parasol,” she said then, trying her best not to look cheeky about it and failing miserably.
A gentle nod was offered when it seemed the decision was to go about as inconspicuously at possible. Behaving for the public eye like nothing had ever changed and using that exactly to their advantage. The less they started to get ruffled, the better they could evade whatever was around them. Although with the rising and intention to put the armour all together rather than on his person, Araminta reminded of the need for wax and envelopes. Temporarily drawing a slight look across his shoulder that turned into a full about face to look at her amusement blossoming upon features.
Pure humour in that fact. Earning a longer look at her that seemed to be somewhat trying to decipher if he was going to find her commentary fitting or worth the comedic value. Likely to be something that he was going to hear for a long while, meaning he had better just get used to it.
Instead of replying, he turned. Reaching to grab that of his cloak instead of assembling the whole ensemble once again. “I will tell Mary Beth you are awake now… if you would like proper breakfast while I get the items requested.”
A soft giggle was her initial reply along with a nod that she’d not mind a full breakfast, followed by a lingering look that was nothing less than fondness. Leaving no doubts that her teasing was meant as gentle affection, rather than a mean-spirited mocking. Though she was curious that he was going to step out without his armor… and just as quickly remembering he’d purchased her some light pieces of her own. That was going to be interesting to get used to.
“We’ll have a nice day of relaxing inside til we go tonight,” she declared. Starting on a third letter before she realized maybe it was time that she herself put on some proper clothing. Lest Mary Beth come upstairs to assume Araminta was trying to seduce her!
Another couple slices of orange ended up in her mouth before she scooted to stand up herself and go searching for her clothes. Opting for the means of what would be easy to travel in the night. Supposing she ought to braid her hair too so she wouldn’t appear like a mountain wildling.
He’d found Mary Beth just where one would have expected her. Bright eyed and cheery as per usual when he came down the stairs. Noticing that her child had been called forth just as early to begin the efforts of menial labour. Moved to use his broom once more to sweep the inside foyer of the inn rather than being outside eyeballing young women from afar. Was this a style choice or just how it went, there was no way to tell. Nor was he about to get so invested either to ask, merely coming to the landing portion of the stairs to quietly mention to the hostess that Araminta was awake and would be very appreciative if there was something hot and delicious brought up to her.
Leaving it just as that, before turning to adjust cloak with a slip out into the public eye once more.
A strong scent of tide salt was already thick in the air, accompanied with a strong wind to assure the sea was making itself known even deep within the city. Though it did little to stop anyone from setting up their various stalls, he had no reason to spend time lurking about. With a asking for letters and wax, his priority was straightforward.
Grateful to know generally the main areas of the city so he wouldn’t remain out too long. Though he doubted Araminta would be hardpressed for some alone time or rather some girl time with Mary Beth anyways. It could perhaps stop to grab a few other small items that may be useless for their travels but overall, he wouldn’t stay away for hours at a time.
Araminta had just managed to get herself dressed proper when Mary Beth had appeared at the door, announcing herself with a knock and a cheerful morning greeting. The princess allowing the woman entrance without even a second thought and just as readily returning the woman’s smiles.
“What a lovely morning, isn’t it!” chimed Mary Beth, decked in her usual humble garments and hair twisted up on top her head. Bustling in with a tray of treats in a variety that Araminta was certain was completely unnecessary. From freshly baked sweet pastries to a spicy scented sausage and a couple soft boiled eggs. “I see your Ghost has finally relaxed enough to loosen up some of that stiffness. He makes quite the picture cleaned up so nicely!”
“Well, you can thank yourself for that, Mary Beth!” Araminta laughed. “You’ve provided us such a comfortable and welcoming safe space. It’s honestly been so lovely, that I almost wish we didn’t have to leave.”
Settling the tray down on the table and arranging out items, Mary Beth paused long enough to giggle and press her hands to her cheeks.
“Oh, you’re going to make me blush with such things. Does that mean you’ll be checking out soon? Back to the trials again?”
Araminta nodded only to pause and blink with surprise. “I- well… yes, how did you know?”
The woman waved her hand as if it were absolutely nothing. Not a big deal to her at all.
“A good Inn keeper knows a royal when they see them. Although, honestly I hadn’t a clue of who you were exactly until my brother said he recognized the Imperial Prince! But I figured if you wanted us to know you would’ve said so, a good Inn keeper knows how to be discreet too, after all. I never in a million years would’ve guessed Prince Theon, though. He really isn’t anything like I expected!”
Araminta certainly understood that thought – Theon wasn’t who she was expecting for the Imperial Prince either. Having originally assumed he was going to be some devastating monster on the same level as his awful mother.
“He is truly special and unlike anyone I have ever met. Has suffered through so much and still has such a gentle soul, that how could I not try my absolute best to keep going.”
With this statement Mary Beth looked over the girl curiously, first with wide-eyed wonderment only to slowly blossom into a wide smile and a sparkling sense of understanding. Almost seeming to not be able to contain it, but having enough tact not to blurt out her true thoughts to the princess.
“Have you any regrets of declining the marriage now that you know the man?” she suggested instead, very interested in this means of what was possibly the most juiciest gossip in the lands these days.
This did bring Araminta to a thoughtful pause before inevitably shaking her head. “He has been forced to do enough things in his life, Theon should get to choose who he marries. He’s sacrificed so much for me already, I wouldn’t dare take anything else away.”
“I see,” Mary Beth responded, seeming to warm even more in countenance and smile. Looking all the more delighted in a motherly and proud sort of way. “It’s been a pleasure to host you both, regardless. I’ll bring up a few things later to add to your travel packs. One can never have enough food or enough soap for a long journey, if you ask me!”
After a few pleasant exchanges and Mary Beth was on her way, Araminta settled down to eat and resume her letter writing. Now with a few curious thoughts muddling in her head. Pondering quietly what might’ve happened if she had chosen marriage instead of the trials. Knowing that surely his mother would’ve ordered him to kill her that very night, but… Would she have been able to talk her way out of it? Would she have been sleeping and never saw it coming?
Wondering even more still why Theon hadn’t just killed her in the bog when they’d first met. Or why he’d not let the harpies finish her off! Realizing she still didn’t know what changed in Theon in those moments to decide that was when he was going to finally defy his mother. But so very grateful that he had. Not just for herself, but in that watching Theon getting a chance to experience what life had to offer had been so strangely fulfilling for Araminta in a way she never expected.
Uneventful was good. Uneventful meant that he wasn’t required to be as tense as a loaded spring tucked into a far too small space. Ready to eject out at the small bit of movement.
In this case, it was not it. Allowing a breath of freedom. Gathering the items that were asked for and well, maybe something else that had caught his attention and thought to bring back only because it seemed like a good idea. Something that might help keep Araminta’s mood brightened even if it might not be the most practical of items. At this point, they were lugging around quite the assortment of things anyways and he apparently was a lot more willing to extend out a bit of coin when the right pair of big eyes stared at him.
He’d only tip his head back inside the inn to that of Mary Beth. Simply scooting silently back up the familiar wait to that of the room. Knocking twice to inform that it was himself before entering. Finding the smell of different foods in the air and naturally Araminta where she had been before. Urging him to step over and put down the white envelopes and red coloured wax purchased for her. Alongside something that didn’t of course match everything else. Not that he said anything about it, just left it beside and moved to put that of cloak away. Leaving the little addition for her to have at her leisure.
“Welcome hooome,” chirped Araminta, acknowledging his return without glancing up from her current duties. She’d finished the letters for the royal families of the kingdoms, and was now writing a couple extra for the few noble houses she’d learned of so far just for an added bit of confusion. Feeling that those farther down on the ladder of power were the ones most likely to try unscrupulous things in order to climb higher and gather royal favor.
It took a few minutes before she glanced to the side to inspect her requested items. The soft sucking in of a breath the only indication that she’d finally noticed there was more than just some envelopes and sealing wax waiting.
Mystified she plucked up the delicate lily, turning it in her fingers to admire the bright oranges and warm yellows of the petals. Even the vibrant coral in the pistils of stamen. Reminding her of the gradients colors of Essurn’s sunset. This was such a silly thing – no actual practical use for it, nor would it last longer than the day. Yet he’d brought it to her and somehow it was so much more special than everything else he’d gifted her. Bringing this warm fuzzy feeling to the put of her stomach.
Promptly Araminta took to braiding her hair, wrapping strands with the stem of the lily to hold it neatly in place. Practically preening once she was done, as now she’d have it with her for the rest of the day. Deciding not to embarrass him with verbal thanks and squeezing hugs, as he’d likely had enough of that nonsense from her already. Sitting there to resume her writing with that pleased grin and the faintest hints of pink to her features.
The little girl had certainly known her craft. Look for those who seemed like they just might fall perfect prey to pretty big eyes with fluttering lashes and a lisping tone due to her front teeth missing from recently falling out. The flower hadn’t been on his agenda nor even a vague thought, but the little girl had caught his attention after a few mister’s and an eventual tug on his arm.
Making her spiel till he took the obvious bait. Paying her for a pretty little flower with a bit of soft appreciation for it anyways. Deciding that it could both help the child out –even if it might be a scam, he wasn’t that pressed to nickel and dime it- and to give Araminta something that maybe would be nice.
It seemed to be the case when he noticed her weaving the item into that of chocolate locks. Encouraging even further that of the pitter-patter of his own every so lively vessel, before he came to rest in place once more. Noticing the stack of letters she had written but was writing further. “Is there more that should be addressed?” He noticed the bare hint of blush to her features though he didn’t mention it. Finding it to be… just worth a look alone.
She softly shook her head in response, setting another aside to take a moment to sample more of the things on her tray of treats.
“No, just a few extra nobles, at least the ones I can remember for a little added confusion,” she explained. Though Araminta was still hoping that out of all of these people, all of these kingdoms there might be allies too. Ones that were looking for any chance, any hope that something could shake up the Imperial Queen’s reign. The woman could not live forever – one could only hope. With Mary Beth’s surprise that she’d been hosting the Imperial Prince this whole time and seeming to like Theon just fine, surely others would like him too.
That was the moment Araminta realized she had no idea how Theon felt about that potential future. She knew he didn’t feel the role of a prince, and thought he was nothing more than one in title alone. Reaffirmed by so many around him that treated him like nothing more than his mother’s murderous extended hand. Yet, he was his own person no matter what that beast said, and by the very law and his royal blood he was the heir.
“Have you… have you ever thought about what you would do when your mother is gone?” she asked curiously. “I know it’s a rude question, but it feels worth thinking about. If she was no longer Queen and all fell to you?”
Easily there came a soft acceptance to the idea that she had picked out a few added nobles to bring into the fray of misdirection and general confusion. Sure to stir up a whole room of frantic nobles all attempting to get the resolution without actually knowing if there would be one. Sure to annoy all sorts, he was certain.
Although he wasn’t sure which nobles she was considering, it seemed that her attention had risen to him. Warranting muted blinks as her query arose from some place that probably had been lingering in her thoughts.
Not entirely sure why.
Waiting for the conclusion of the question to linger in a state of observation. And then, honesty. “I don’t believe she would ever parish.” Theon stated bluntly, “Not because I believe her to be unable to pass, but because she would likely go to very long lengths to assure it never happened. She is a powerful mage with links to dark magic that I don’t know the lengths about.” Lightly he gave his head a shake, “I’ve always surmised that she would sooner kill me as she did my father to use my parts in whatever dark concoction to attempt the effort of prolonged or eternal life.”
Theon shrugged indifferently then. Seemingly unbothered by the fact his own mother would use him probably like some ingredient for a soup! He was aware she had slaughtered his father at someone point. Too young to even recall the nokken man, just that he was a fae and fae generally made good pieces for good and bad spells. “I likely would never be the king. I’ve never entertained the thought.” Expressing that his acceptance to be killed was already well asserted to stand that presence instead. “For hypothetical statement regardless, I would be unfit for such a placement. For various reasons that are obvious and riddled with blood spilt.”
“…that is a frightening prospect to think about. That she might find a way to rule for centuries.”
Was that truly the scope of her power, Araminta thought? The princess ought not be surprised, she’d had a very personal example of how easy it could be for Queen Heirra to create a spell that reached across borders into another land direct to the object of her ire. Nor had Araminta forgotten her fury in those hours after, at how she’d used Araminta’s body to try and force Theon to give the killing blow. No one like that should ever be allowed to sit on a throne so high that she had control over so many innocent people. A woman who would allow demon cultists to blight an entire town would eventually blight all of the kingdoms under her rule.
That was a problem too big and too far into the future for Araminta to be dwelling on right now. Still, it never hurt to take tiny steps. Even if it were just thinking about how the world could be different.
“Are you afraid they’d not accept you because of what you’ve had to do as her Hand?” she asked just as curiously, turning away from the table to give him the full brunt of her attention. “Or is it because you feel you could not do the job justice? As both are very different things.”
Casually one dipped his head to show agreement to her thought. That the queen was a terrifying idea of sitting there for however long in life. Prolonged by means that were entirely unnatural and absolutely unethical. A good part of his thoughts wished he might have been bothered or even shocked at this very reality. Alas, even looking amongst the figurative mess of one’s thoughts, not a single surprise was located.
Lending his focus to be hers entirely while he explained most of his thoughts.
Of course Araminta was hardly one to just take what was said at simple face value. She proved to dig down for a stronger understanding as to why. In this case meant trying to decipher just why he did not feel the status of king belonged.
“Perhaps a bit of both.” Neither one seemed stronger than the other. “I’ve done terrible things to many of the ruling parties of the twelve kingdoms. It may have been directed by Queen Heirra, but it was my hand at the end of the blade.” Theon considered this a moment to make sure it was in fact the very truth, “And I am not fit to be a king. I lack any sort of makings that would be suitable for the position. I may have been the imperial prince.” He quoted the words loosely, “But I never was one. I’ve received no training for it. Guiding of any sort. I am the blood of a queen who treats people as tools. Even her own children were set against another to determine which was strongest and to be used for her devices. In any other’s gaze, I would surmise I appear weak, foolish and pathetic. For I am. Easily used and cast aside. Those, are not qualities fit for a king let alone one of Imperial quality. Another would be far better suited to such placement. And deserving of it.”
He considered her, “You would be a better queen in all intents and purposes. Many qualities that both demand respect and compassion without being foolish or weak.”
This answer did not surprise Araminta either, as she expected Theon not to believe he had the qualities to make a good king. Something she disagreed with down to her very bones. Perhaps he didn’t have the education for it, perhaps it would be a struggle to earn the respect of the people after what had happened so far… but Araminta felt a good King was made by the nature of his heart and if he were willing to learn and grow to do what needed to be done.
Theon was all of that and more.
Naturally he would turn the statements back towards her, prompting a small, wry sort of smile.
“I was never meant to be a queen nor did I ever think it would be something I’d need to do. But I suppose there is a chance when I return home, that is what I’ll be. I keep thinking that when I go back all they’ll see is a princess who ran away in a time where they needed a leader the most.”
Araminta reached over, lightly laying her hand on his forearm an giving a gentle squeeze.
“For what it’s worth, I think you’d be a great king,” she murmured softly. “There’s been thousands of kings both born and conquered, plenty having not a clue of what to do when they started their reign. The ones people remember fondly aren’t necessarily the ones most powerful or even most successful. They just cared deeply about their peoples and that was enough.”
She expressed before that she was not in line for her own family throne, but he didn’t think that made her suddenly so much less to be valid for the placement. Though maybe some of that was biased because they had spent time together. Allowing him to spectate her interactions. Deciding and learning that she was an amazing person that he felt was truly a great embodiment of what a ruler ought to be. She stated her thoughts openly and said often enough how things should be with a ruler in place, it made sense to him that she ought to be one of those lording sorts.
“I do not think so.” Eyes followed to where she laid her hand and there was a soft moment he felt almost compelled to pat it. Just he hadn’t. “You made it out here for a reason and it’s to do what you can in hopes for your kingdom. You are trying, truly. That… cannot be faulted.”
He shook his head though shortly, “I would not wish to be king. These people have endured too much already, I would prefer someone else be in that placement. It is not where I belong, though that may be largely encompassing in totality.” Suggesting he didn’t know any place he belonged but that was fine. He’d long accepted that. “When you return to your kingdom… it would be hard to be at the place of a hut. But I would assure it would be there for you, as you had plans for it.”
“I’d not abandon you to be a king alone anymore than I could go back home without you. You are unfortunately stuck with me until the end of all time! A partner’s promise.” Though she gave him a cheeky smile, Araminta meant it with all seriousness. Squeezing his arm one last time before she turned back to her business at hand.
It didn’t take her long to scrawl out the last of her letters, giving the ink time enough to dry before one by one she folded up the papers and tucked them into envelopes. Beautifully scripted the names of whomst they were to be delivered to, then picked up her wax to seal the back only to realize she needed something to melt it.
“Fire, please?” she asked him with a wrinkle of her nose, lifting up the wax to gesture why.
Now that was quite the bold little statement. Leaving him a long second to merely take in her very presence with silver peepers. The grin paired alongside that of a gentle squeeze, one might have thought Araminta had some ace up her sleeve of a plan. Something her wasn’t privy too by any means. Spurring that effort of staring with that silent awe, all the more.
Trying to mentally decide what he would do if he had no choice but to become king of this place. Well… that was assumption, now wasn’t it. His mother would never give up the throne and he truly doubted the woman at this point could be dethroned or slaughtered. When he had stated she was a powerful mage, he meant it to the very letter.
She said if he was to be king, she would not go. But that would be impossible if she was needed in her homeland. Meaning she was just saying things to try and lessen the burden even if none of this was going to happen anyways. Truly, if his mother could be removed and another proper party could sit there, he would be happy enough to just fade into oblivion. Simply to become tall wily tales that young children whispered about between chasing the poor chickens of the village around.
Features turned slightly further at her asking of flame. Prompting a swift unfurling of palm to a conjured ember so she might warm the wax to a dripping point. Inching somewhat closer to keep it going considering she was guna have to do this a few times. “You’d eventually have to leave.” Theon found his mouth moving against his own will, “Queen or princess or in-between… you’d need to live your future with promise of things that are far more suitable for one of your caliber.” Attempting his own way of suggesting that he knew she would do far better marrying off and having a succession that made her happy in new ways.
Araminta adjusted her own position as well so he wouldn’t have to lean too far, bringing her envelope close enough so when she warmed the end of her wax stick, it dripped right where it was supposed to and not accidentally on herself or elsewhere. Then it was a quick stamping of her ring to seal it.
“That is the nice thing about being a person with free will, I can do whatever I please.” she retorted, that smile not fading in the slightest.
As for her letters, it took a bit more adjusting to make the motions of folding, tucking, melting, sealing a little more efficient but after a couple Araminta had it down to a smooth science.
“There’s no reason why we can’t have our responsibilities and still do the things we like too. To help people where we can, makes things better for others and still travel to new exciting places or have quiet days at home. I guess it’s a little naive to think we can do such impossible things, but we’ve already done quite a few impossible things already so what does it hurt to reach for the stars?”
Dramatic, romantic, sentimental, these were all accurate ways to describe her way of thinking and Araminta knew it. Truthfully, it felt good to think this way again – as if everything in the world was still possible, instead of that terrible, morose feeling she had before. Where she’d been so resigned to an inevitable and swift death that everything felt hopeless. Even she wasn’t sure how she’d managed to keep making steps forward before she met Theon.
There came a steadiness to her little production line though he couldn’t entirely appreciate the due care to such a task when his mind seemed to be listening to what was being said. And found it to be of no warming use for once. Unsure if it was because he thought what Araminta was saying was done in hopes to hush up any thoughts, or if she genuinely didn’t think about such things. Suggesting free will so easily though she did have it in abundance.
Although he didn’t think with the amount of responsibilities that she might have returning to her kingdom would allow her to do as she wanted. As least not in the same vain. “People will need you to be there with them.” Theon stated softly as he idly poked at the flame in palm with the other hand. As if he hadn’t know how such a magic wouldn’t respond of take to heating flesh. “I do not know if one can reach stars so easily.”
“Only at first,” she explained. “It wouldn’t be like that forever…”
This was where their differences were revealed, like a spotlight shining down on just how differently they’d grown up and viewed life. Araminta could daydream their hypothetical futures in a thousand different scenarios and all of them would be successful. Nothing but the best of endings for them both and for everyone else involved, save for a few that deserved to be locked up in moldy old dungeons with hungry rats.
Where Theon… he’d never known anything to go well in his life, why would he expect anything different? Even this quiet trip had been met with trouble, to rattle him and shake him, to reinforce that idea that a different sort of life was truly impossible. Convinced down to his bones that his mother was all powerful and eternal, or at the very least would find a way to be so.
Leaving Araminta wondering if he could be right. Theon knew the woman in a way Araminta didn’t. All of her daydreaming and hopeful words were pretty meaningless in the face of something so vastly powerful!
Still… she had enough hope to share for the both of them. Let Theon be practical, Araminta could carry the rest.
With only burning her fingers on the wax once, Araminta finished up sealing her letters in record time. Neatly straightening up the stack and then shifting to about packing away all of their things to make a hasty exit that evening all the easier!
Quietly and a little bit surprisingly to himself, he found no comfort in that vague statement. Left to just sort of mentally accept that he likely wasn’t ever going too. And there was going to come a very obvious time that they just might need to have a stronger conversation about the reality of what was going on around them. Particularly in the means of likely a forever end.
Focusing to keep the flame at the ready for her till she was clearly finished, he rose up similarly at the silent motion that it was time to prepare for departure.
To return to his former state of dress first seeing as that took a bit of time to re-assemble into place. With a painstaking attention to detail less one piece sit incorrectly only to chaff to a rash or stab awkwardly.
Managing eventually to turn as cloak was being pinned into place and paused, “Do you…” Theon paused to rethink himself, “Would you like some assistance with your gear?”
They’d amassed quite a collection of useful new things, Araminta found. Thankfully not so much that there would be trouble traveling with it, even if they were to walk. But she’d decided quickly the best thing to do would be heading back to their tiny hut to store away the things they wouldn’t need during the next trial as she didn’t want to find out what’d be like trying to flee with all of it should something go wrong. His speedy stead made traveling faster and easier, yet there was no sense in being over burdened.
By the time he’d asked his question, she’d had just about everything arranged neatly or tucked away into the packs.
“I would, yes!” she responded, probably with more excitement that was necessary just for pieces of armor. Only, Araminta had never worn armor before, not even such simple pieces so this was somehow like graduated to a new level! It’d certainly make getting tackled by wild monsters a tiny bit less painful!
Now that was easy enough to find that she was eager at the idea of welcoming some assistance. Of course her selected armor was not nearly as involved as his own. Having decided it would have been immensely foolish of them to put her into something that was unfamiliar that would only hinder instead of protect.
They would need to start small and if she wanted to add to it later, then that was entirely feasible as she became familiar with the added weight and more.
“We will take the chest piece firstly and ensure it will conform to your frame. The rest will come after.” Theon spoke with a slight motion of hand to indicate her to collect the item at all. “It is a good idea to have that of a tunic beneath to avoid chaffing as well.” His gaze was light and the same general passive glide, “It may feel uncomfortable for a while due to yourself being unaccustomed to the new weight. Nor will it be entirely easy to move in for the first while as well.”
Araminta got the hint that her current chosen attire wasn’t quit suitable to be geared up proper, so with a quick grab and dash behind one of the screens (as she had no intention of scaring Theon to death by throwing her shirt off right in front of him) the princess exchanged her newer top with her original clothing. Deciding that it plenty acceptable for the job of protecting her skin from chafing at least in all of the important areas, as well as being the better thing to wear to get all banged up. Not wanting to ruin her newer clothes so soon after getting them.
When she did return, she plucked up the chest piece to present to him with far more enthusiasm than was really necessary for such things.
“I’ve worn corsets before, I can’t imagine it will be too much different than that. At least in terms of snugness and bending,” she replied. Not that she enjoyed corsets at all, rather Araminta did everything she could to avoid them. But this was a very different situation. A needed piece of gear if she wanted to stay in one piece for the future.
Once she returned and the eagerness of the chestplate moved into his own hands, he began to unfasten that of the straps that would keep the piece snug to her frame. Although this particular item was shapeless to allow it to fit no one person, it would work for now. If she needed something in the future at her behest, they would have to find some weaponsmith to take the measurements necessary to make it fit her and her alone. “I do not if this is similar.” Theon expressed at the idea of a corset having been worn. “Merely that this is not to hold your insides up, but to protect them. It will be tight but not so that there is a lack of ability to take deep breaths.”
Stepping closer once the item was able to be loosened to a point that the straps were obviously dangling, he waited for her to step forward into him. “Arms through here.” He expressed and then pushed the belly of the armour to that of her own. Sidestepping to hold it in place so he could move around to the backside. Moving grasp along the way to make a snatch for a strap. “Hold it close please, I will fasten it. You must tell me if it is too tight. That wouldn’t do well to make sure you can function still. This is leather thankfully, if it was plate, then it would be a little more difficult to work into place.”
Theon paused, “If it is also too loose, we will need to get you some padding underneath then. Eventually working up to that of light chainmail to assure that your vitals are well protected. Leather armour is not so defensive on its own.”
Araminta was well used to having others assist her with dressing, as sometimes a princess had to wear things that required extra hands. Sometimes there were even attendants and hand maidens that were a little too enthusiastic about a new position too and thought they needed to assist with every tiny little thing, even if she were perfectly capable of doing it herself. Yet having Theon helping was a smidge different and she couldn’t help but have the tiniest little embarrassed flutter and the twinge of pink in her cheeks.
She did as instructed when instructed, though, with only minimal squirming to see just how the piece of leather was meant to fit. Finding that it was perhaps a little looser than it should be, but thinking it wouldn’t be such a problem the more consistently she had regular meals. Curiously pondering how much of the armor he had on himself and how heavy chainmail had to be… Remembering how difficult it had been to try and get Theon off the ground when he’d been unconscious in the fae-wood, and thinking if there were a next time she might have to strip him down for the ease of moving him!
The princess had to immediately cease those thoughts, as they drew up a variety of conflicting emotions she didn’t have time for in the present!
“Do you think we’ll need to cover me head to toe in steel?” she asked instead. “A full knight’s guard with a helmet and metal boots?”
Once she was holding the item in place and saying nothing thus far about it being awkward, loose or too tight, he began cinching the straps. Pulling them at their entry point to start niggling the binds to draw closer and closer. Using fingers to feel under their sliding motions to make sure nothing was accidentally being pinch in the meantime; and noting himself just what might be good for Araminta to have.
Padding would likely be necessary. As the item was fit to her frame specifically, it meant there would be gapping. And just shoving balled up bits of cloth between would do nothing to help.
It would have to be created with due care and selected with the right amount of material to make sure it did as it was supposed to. Instead of just settling her down with that of a layer of chinked chainmail.
“If you do not wish to ever move from the spot, then it is a possibility. Not a good one.” He moved fingers gingerly downward the back of the armor, tugging lightly all the more. “They are not easy to move in. For they aren’t merely suits of armour. There is padding, cloth, chainmail. As well adding on that each knight who dresses as such is typically rather large set and spend years training themselves to be no less than a packmule, with weapons and shields as well. It may not be what you are looking to do for yourself.”
Palms stopped and smoothed the work of lacing and straps. Checking the work, “You are agile. It would be best to stay with leather. Hard jerkin or soft.”
He sidestepped as fingers draped away slowly. Coming around and seemingly having forgotten any sort of reserved action to reach out and see how the item was resting on shoulders. Lightly jostling it before nodding with a slight approval. “There is a singular spaulder as well, that should go across your left shoulder to protect that of your heart first and foremost. Do you have it ready as well?”
There was something quite spectacular about Theon when he was wholey confident in what he spoke of and what he did. The squareness of his shoulders and the steadfast tone of his voice. Commanding actions and relaying instructions without fear of retribution, averting his gaze, or that tepid timidness. Araminta so wished he could recognize this in himself! Anyone would follow a man like this to the ends of the earth!
Araminta wasn’t sure what he meant by ready, assuming that simply meant set out for easy grasping in his moment… but certain in the future it was going to involve that same care and attention of preparation he gave his own gear. For the time being she nodded a quick affirmation and stepped away to fetch the next piece, finding her move was a little more awkward than she expected. It wasn’t entirely like a corset as it wasn’t so focused on her mid section, and it surely stopped her from being as bendy and twisty as she was used to!
Of course she was also aware that the pieces were new and these sorts of things required a bit of breaking in.
The next piece she brought him, Araminta was still twisting a bit trying to get used to the feel of it but otherwise seemed perfectly content.
“I suppose I should start lifting heavy things in practice. In case I have to wrestle bears or giant lizards or fight off another flock of angry geese. Or scoundrels again. I think that was more embarrassing than the geese.”
With the spaulder brought out, once more he began the considerable less effort of unbinding the strapping mechanism for the item. Pausing to look upon her when she stated that she ought to start lifting weights for the effort of tussling down with those larger than her. “One doesn’t always need muscles of the sort you are referencing to be stronger.” He looked to her softly, stepping in yet again. To rest the spaulder over shoulder and push it down into place so it would connect and be easily capable of being fastened together.
Laying the large leather part over chestpiece. Adding a new layer of protection to the vital organ. “Everyone is caught unaware at times. Even the best and brightest. Scoundrels or not, will get the better of anyone. No one is immune. And considering how far you’ve come, you’ve been doing perfectly well.”
The item was easier to get into place and assure it wouldn’t start squirming around awkwardly. “This will be enough for not to get you started. The belt that was purchased for you as well, I can leave to your own fastening.” Theon stepped aside once more. This time locating that of her cloak to pull up and sweep out to make it come over her shoulders. In a curtain sprawl till it loosened to fall towards the ground. Allowing him to take its cowl ends to place together. With the pin given from that of the Fae King to hold it all in place.
“You have the dagger that was given as well? That, you should keep on the opposite side of your hip that is not your dominant arm. For swift grasping, rather than fumbling awkwardly going from right side of hip to right hand. Or vice versa, depending on which is your lead.”
Eyes fell downwards to that of the various other bit of items. “I will carry most. To allow you time to adjust to the new armour pieces.”
Araminta had a feeling that he would’ve insisted on carrying most, even if she hadn’t been wearing new armor to get used to. It was the same kindness in Theon that had him feeling compelled to reassure her that she’d only had an off day. As if she hadn’t stumbled through the trials so far on a mix of pure dumb luck and Theon’s quick reflexes.
Not to mention horse kicking a bunch of bandits!
“You’ll have to teach me to properly use a dagger if I’m meant to whip it out in a pinch,” she responded, moving away to fetch her pelt and the assortment of little pouches. Out of all the useful things he brought her, it might’ve been her favorite simple because of those pouches. All the little knick nacks she could pack away, like a roosting squirrel. Neat things she found, snacks, quest items too if she needed to stash them and run away quickly. Far better than having to stuff them in her shirt or in a grip of death as she ran for her life!
Once properly belted and dagger in place, she dusted herself off and stood straight to present herself with a slow turn and an earnest look.
“Do I seem like a proper traveler now? Someone at the bare minimum that looks like they know what they’re doing?”
“When you wish to learn, I will teach.” Although he paused suddenly as though he needed to rethink that, “Somewhere safe and without watchful eyes however. As we do not need to raise alarm to bystanders of curious nature. But it would be good to know. To avoid accidentally cutting yourself or off a few fingers.” That would be terrible and sadly he knew of the sorts that would have done it.
Not to mention that the dagger gifted was rather sharp already. It wouldn’t take much and he almost felt that since it was made of bone, it was loudly suggesting it was also able to cut through the very substance it was crafted from.
Still one second more drew a pause. From how she was straightening up and seemingly looking for him to state his thoughts on her appearance now. Studying with due care before stepping in a smidge closer. Reaching forward to take the tail end of hair out from that of cloak that had been wrapped up within to lay it down gingerly. Lightly poking at the flower she had braided in before nodding. “Yes. Ready for trials. And more angry geese.”
Theon was rewarded with the broadness of her smile, perhaps for a lingering moment longer than was really necessary as Araminta almost wished they didn’t need to leave this place at all. Even despite Lady Thebe’s unexpected harassment, these few quiet days of just existing were so very precious. A lovely reminder of what life could be once the trials were done and she found her way back home.
With Theon. Cemented now more than ever that she intended to never leave him behind. How things would turn out with his mother and the Imperial Kingdom, she didn’t know, but Araminta was certain now that she could never abandon Theon anymore than she could forget her own kingdom.
“You did not see that entire flock of geese, Theon, if you had you wouldn’t be so cheeky!” she did finally warm to say, finding him oh so funny once again, regardless if it was unintentional or not.
They needed to get moving though, as Araminta had slept the entire morning away and their early afternoon had been spent preparing. If they wanted to be sure they were seen, a few good hours at the tavern would be paramount before they departed in the evening. As Araminta gathered up her bag and her other bag, as well as the few new items that wouldn’t fit in either pack, she once again was so very glad for Theon’s speedy steed. Otherwise they might actually have to consider getting a wagon and a horse for all future traveling!
Quietly he gave her reply a strong consideration. Feeling it out in such a way that it might as well hve been a material piece right in hand. Deciding on, “I do not know if the size of the flock would be relevant or not. Merely that you had an encounter at all.” Seemingly finding the way she giggled to be enough of a reason to know this was all said in the effort of gentle teasing. Instead of anything malicious.
For now there was the need to gather up anything remaining that ought to be brought along. Looking like they were wandering nomads that hadn’t quite figured out that with the variety of their ever growing collection, they’d likely need a wagon. Or a cart. Something that made carrying all the gear just that much easier.
Right now, they would just have to carry it. Including downstairs to where Mary Beth was to say her goodbyes of course. And he just might shortly suggest they go back to his… their hut to set every article that was listened as non-vital there. Allowing the use of movement and freedom to be their biggest boon. But that would wait till goodbyes were finalized. Settling comfortably to watch the interaction for his own learning purposes and perhaps to discover any more new quirks or things Araminta liked!
Thanks to having multiple packs and Araminta’s clever shopping, most of their new items were easily tucked away. The fish basket folded up to be tucked into one bag. The parasol fit nicely buckled up where a bedroll should’ve been. Her large jug tucked into a pack – that one actually being the most cumbersome in terms of weight. Leaving only the bags themselves, the fishing rod and her staff to be carried by hand. All of which Araminta would’ve been fine to carry by herself, but found that Theon was happier when she allowed him to help and thus gave him the heavier of the bags.
Downstairs it seemed that Mary Beth hadn’t expected to see them so soon, making a surprised exclamation for them to wait just a moment before she disappeared in a flurry of colorful skirts. On her return she had a collection of things wrapped up in a pretty little cloth and presented it to Araminta with a sunny smile.
“I hate to see you both go so soon, but ah! That’s the life of an inn keeper, isn’t it!” she sighed before following it up with a laugh. “Food can be hard to come by while traveling, so that is a bit of dried fish, sugar cookies, and a little bit of marmalade and bread. Nothing too fancy but will keep well. A little extra something for your Ghost too, in case you spend too much time in the sun again.”
“This is all completely unnecessary, but we very much appreciate it all the same.” responded Araminta, finding herself with that wistful feeling of wanting to stay again, but knowing… well… even if she weren’t doing trials, one couldn’t stay on a vacation trip forever!
“Do be careful on the roads! Don’t trust men with gold teeth offering you free rides or strange old women traveling with nothing but baskets and needing favors.” she warned. “Oh but, good luck! Good luck and farewell!”
Araminta found such a warning strangely specific and wasn’t sure if that was local worries about strange travelers or something just peculiar to Mary Beth herself. Either way she did give the woman the briefest of hugs before bidding her goodbye. Leaving quickly with Theon before any temptations to linger longer sprang up for herself, or Mary Beth lured them into a lengthy conversation.
Once they were outside Araminta did take the time to pause Theon so should could tuck away their tasty treats into the pack he carried, where they would be safe and sound.
“What do you suppose is so suspicious about old ladies with baskets?” she asked, not really expecting any sort of answer. “It sounds like an ominous fairy tale sort of thing!”
With a quiet contemplation about how Mary Beth behaved in their departure, one had to wonder in his position if her behaviour was normal. Suspecting it was in some sense though maybe a bit influenced by the personality of Araminta. The two women having a sort of collision of wits and mirth that made them both in a sense bubbly and welcoming to others. At least that was all he was surmising currently with the means of merely observing their interaction. Nodding and giving a bow politely to Mary Beth for her generous hospitality.
Still her cautionary warning was oddly specific.
Leaving him to take what was offered by that of ladylike hand and the wonderment to roll in thoughts for a few additional moments. Truly pondering over the question that wasn’t looking for an answer. “Perhaps a witch.” He uttered rather easily. One might had thought he made a comment about the weather rather than some magic influence crone wandering about looking to lure unwitting helpful people to her. Only to be used for ingredients of cauldron varieties if not entirely food.
“The most unassuming can be the most deadly.” Theon looked at her then as if trying to suggest that she could just as easily fall into that category. Someone as genteel and kind as Araminta might present herself unknowingly as a threat to those who were leery in general. “Although everyone can be a threat in their own way.”
“Hmn! Perhaps so! Although, if I were an old witch, I wouldn’t want to wander around carrying baskets all by myself. I’d need a nice donkey and someone with good muscles to lift things for me, as my knees would be too creaky.” Then the princess paused, looking thoughtful for a second.
“…or I would prefer a small cottage and raise cerulean snails.” She thought aloud. Not that Araminta believed Matilda was a witch, and yet… the peculiar elder woman could’ve been! A friendly one that much preferred her own company and minding her own business.
Either way, it wasn’t witches that Araminta had any fear of while they travelled. The Imperial Queen didn’t seem like the sort that’d trust other powerful women to become involved in her schemes. Rather instead taking advantage of people who were desperate enough to try their hand at crazy things. Or trained assassins that they’d never see coming.
She kept that thought to herself.
Of course, at his statement of unassuming sorts being potentially deadly and the look he cast her, Araminta erupted into a small laugh.
“I suppose that is true, isn’t it? One would just have to have the desire to be a problem for someone else.” Then almost as soon as it was out of her mouth, she remembered she very much had been a threat to Theon already by puppet strings pulled and her expression faltered. Araminta could be just as dangerous to Theon as anyone else, simply because she was near him. It made her stomach twist uncomfortably double so, especially since he’d decided to stay with her not just then, but now too.
“In such ways, would it not be best to appear weak and fragile carrying baskets. Then someone polite would offer assistance and likely be trapped.” Theon asked rather seriously. Wanting to know if his trail of thought was potentially incorrect or the opposite. To seem vulnerable old woman could and would pull at someone’s heart strings surely. To a point they would throw aside caution cause what could an old woman do.
Never mind the fact of the matter was, if it was a witch, they could do a lot of things. But to hear her mention Matilda with her snails, he suspected that Araminta would much rather have a cottage full of strange and fluffy creatures. Instead of posing or being someone’s threat. “I fear the hut I have is not capable of housing such creatures to fill that thought.”
Though there were always other ways of course. Which he might had thought upon while his statement of anyone could be a threat appeared to have left a thought in her mind. Unlike Araminta, his mind hadn’t wandered over to the puppeteering trick she had been a part of. Most likely compressing that thought down as best as he could seeing as he didn’t know how to feel besides uncertain to what he had to do in the future if it happened again. Most likely to stop fighting and let the end come as a hope that the swifter it happened, the less it might impact Araminta. That was assuming she would spare him much of a thought after the end anyways.
Instead he nodded. Agreeing with her astute statement whilst turning to indicate the way back towards the dockside and the tavern that would house the minstrels for their next operational plan. “Is there more you wish for me to carry so your hands are free, Araminta?”
Well now Theon had a very good point about innocent seeming little old ladies and just how foolishly Araminta would… and previously had trusted anyone with soft words and a cry for help. She never thought to question people’s intentions unless she was in a space she already knew was sketchy to begin with. The obvious sorts of spots you needed to be wary.
Now it was proven fact that no where was safe, not even the most pretty and quiet and innocent of places. How was she supposed to navigate a world where no one could be trusted?
How had Theon managed to hold onto that little spark of sweetness in his heart when it felt like the entire world was trying to squish you?
There must’ve been some sort of struggling expression on her face, as he’d asked her if she needed any assistance – to which she promptly smiled and shook her head.
“I’m alright. I’ll need to grow some muscle anyway, so I can properly scuffle with the next person that attempts to snatch you up. At least until I have some scars and can look properly intimidating.”
There he paused again at the suggestion that she needed muscle paired with scars and things. Finding his thoughts were split. Was that a sort of dig at him seeing as he sported certainly a few across his visage and hands alone… or was it just Araminta assuming that people that carried such things were intimidating. “Am I intimidating with such things?” He decided to ask her such a pointed question while settling with carrying what she already handed to him.
Having a slight impulsive urge to idly smooth fingers across the sharp swipe through his brow or the pale tear across mouth. Unsure if it was because he was suddenly aware of them in a means of embarrassment or because people might had thought them to be some sort of imposing war marks.
Somehow doubting that seeing as people approached him as Lady Thebe had with the intention of taking control.
“Do you want to look intimidating?” The follow up came as he was not sure he could see Araminta as just that. Clever, certainly. Unpredictable, absolutely. Wondrously mischievous, one would think her the fae over him. But unapproachable, not remotely. “Is this something you wish for me to help you with or just… conversational?”
Araminta was absolutely not expecting Theon to ask if he himself was intimidating, prompting her to blink at him with those evergreen eyes of hers and actually take the moment to look him over. Her immediate instinct was to blurt out a prompt no. Yet, she was well aware her opinion was likely biased and Theon himself wouldn’t believe such a quick answer.
“You’re not intimidating to me,” she did answer honestly. “You’ve never seemed scary or threatening at all. …although I have seen you give sharp looks to others! I’m sure that has been intimidating to those that were on the receiving end of such looks.”
Well now Araminta wanted to hug him again, both to sooth whatever worries he had about himself as well as for his new recognition that not all of her fussing was something he needed to solve and fix for her. Perhaps a few weeks ago he might’ve attempted to deviate everything for a day of Intimidation Training.
It’d go well with dagger practice!
“Conversational,” she affirmed, a soft smile blooming and some of her worries tapering off. Somehow he’d effectively derailed her from slipping into darker thoughts about all the dangers around them. Now far more delighted with regarding him with smiles as they walked down the street.
“I worry too, sometimes,” she did confess. “I’m confident we’ll be alright, but even I feel overwhelmed in some moments and that I won’t be able to help you when you need me.”
“I am relieved to hear that.” He had worried noticeably in his own thoughts that Araminta had considered him one of those sorts. Granted at the time it would have been applicable that he was. However now, if she still thought him to be the sort, he wouldn’t know what to think. There was already a lot going on that made him over-think in general. The idea that the only person that seen him as more than a dog or lesser could have thought him to be so unapproachable… it turned his chest in a way that was terribly uncomfortable. And yet, “Sharp looks?” He wasn’t aware he was even doing so.
Thankfully as they were making their return to the seas side abode, he nodded to find her both smiling and stating this moment was purely conversational. A thing that was still very alien to him but not unpleasant. Granted, it was highly doubtful anyone besides Araminta would invite him into the means of talking. Finding the way she grinned still uplifting.
“You hold it well. It does not ever appear that you are shaken or overwhelmed. I am envious of your ability to look resolute and confident.” One admitted easily, “However, I would not seek to put you in any sort of situation that would make you feel unable to assist. I am not certain yet of the means of friendship but I do know that I would like to keep burdens away from you as much as possible. Within any means I can do.”
Araminta decided not to explain that he could in fact stare deadly daggers at someone he was displeased with, if only because he seemed to be worry about perceptions at the moment. Theon was working so hard to melt his hardened, stoic exterior, she didn’t want to have him growing insecure by the silliest of things.
Especially when he shared his thoughts more openly now than he ever had before, and what lovely thoughts they were. Sometimes he made it difficult for her to be sensible about such things, when he made her feel like she was uniquely special. Maybe Araminta was for Theon – a sentiment she shared, as Theon was so very dear to her now.
“I’m only resolute and confident because you’ve given that to me, didn’t you know, Theon?” she replied with a grin. “There’s nothing I could ever want or need because there is already you here with me.”
It was a warm fuzzy sensation that made its home strangely in his chest after a single few nice words. Watching her green gaze seemingly brimming with the same energy as her own grin carried. Only for him to modestly shuffle and idly brush then at bearded jawline. Sure that this should have been one of those moments he seen others offer a easily moved smile at. Though his face didn’t want to make that motion, feeling foreign in his thoughts alone. God forbid he felt either corner of mouth twist unnaturally like that.
“I am…” Thoughts fluttered searching for a good reply that wouldn’t downplay the means of such a grace she bestowed to him. “Honoured that you think such things of me.” A first to hear and a little bit special enough that he was mentally coveting it.
Leaving him to feel this new sensation out in a figurative way. Allowing to lead further for some time more till they were near the dockside as the sea salt spray air was thicker here than further inwards. The gulls calling over head with new ships being loaded or boarded, readying to depart. Where he would incline arm to make elbow point to where the shanty shack was awaiting for their rumps to play patrons once more. Privately revelling in the mood that was rare for him to experience.
Thought it was hard to tell from that still red kiss from the sun, Araminta suspected the man might’ve actually been blushing. Giving her a sort of unexpected giggling thrill, for such a wide myriad of reasons and feelings that were too jumbled up for her to decipher. Only knowing that she very much loved knowing she could gift him kind sentiments and a delighted desire to do so more in the future. Deciding she ought not to do too much all at once, lest he grow uncomfortable with such affections and want to escape her altogether.
Lucky for him that their walk along the wharf’s boardwalk was so easy. Her attention being pulled away to spy at docked ships with their rolled up sails and the cawing birds landing on wooden rails hoping to steal a fish or a loaf of bread.
The tavern was not as busy as the day prior – better for Theon, Araminta thought, as he’d not have to worry about such a crowded place encroaching into his personal space. Nor feel wary about their safety in such cramped quarters. Once they’d entered the place it was a relief to see plenty of open tables for them to take up residence, and not require her to charm them a comfortable seat. Though, with as popular as the tavern was, Araminta had a feeling it was fill up quickly within the next few hours.
This time she was able to find them a nice table closer to where the music would be played, but again a corner where there wouldn’t be any strangers lurking behind them. A good view of the bar across the room as well as the front doors. Strategic both for herself and for Theon, where they could enjoy the evening at their leisure while still having a shot towards the exit.
There was a strong sense of relief when the tavern was certainly far less filled with bodies of all sorts. Allowing a mental breath to ease and feel like there was no reason for him to have his hackles so tightly coiled that he would be ready to spring over any table to protect them. Of course, he wouldn’t be so foolish to think they could entirely relax. Scooping silver rings around to make sure he knew where any likely exits or entrances could be. Following along to the selected table with an silent approval that it was suitable for angles and the likes.
Waiting for her to sit firstly out of polite etiquette, before coming to follow. Arranging the variety of items around that they could be easily snatched up for carrying once more.
Seemingly summoning a waitress once rumps were sufficiently settled. “What will it be, loves?” Her hair was a dark mass of springy curls with eyes of deep almost honey coloured. Looking like the sun had made her all sorts of pleasant colours of fond affection, while she looked between them both. Evidently this one hadn’t been at the tavern the previous night so she wasn’t saying she recalled either of them. “Drinks and something to eat? Clearly you’ve come for a watching of the minstrels, so while you wait for them to gather, best pick something to keep you occupied.”
As soon as they were settled, it was Araminta’s instinct to turn body and full attention towards Theon, ready to chirp at him with any means of conversation that popped into her head to keep him engaged and entertained so he wouldn’t stiffly sit there waiting for troubles. And too for herself, as talking to Theon did help so much in keeping those dark thoughts and heavy feelings chased away.
The sudden appearance of the waitress so quickly almost made Araminta jump, but she was quick to smile. Even Araminta could tell this was a pretty lady, the naturally lovely sort that was sure to get all sorts of attention in a social space like this.
“If you have a tea I would love a cup? But if not water will do me just fine!” she announced, before resting her elbow on the table and her chin in her palm to give Theon that soft expecting smile. Knowing he’d decline anything for himself, but well, not about to do the speaking for him like she was some sort of master with a leash!
Head slightly tilted with the recollection of what they had in stock. Thumbing mentally across the arrangement of tea varieties before seemingly nodding. “We should have something half decent.” Lids somewhat narrowed to express she was still bordering on not entirely convinced but favouring a yes than no.
Eventually finding her gaze rested upon him and he was momentarily left with a blank void in his thoughts. Realizing it needed to be kick started and a stealing side glance at Araminta. He’d made a choice in the previous day to do better. To be better. Make efforts of things that weren’t typically something he would do but knowing if he wanted to try and break out of the shackles of impression and hardboiled expectations, then he had to do things that may or may not make him incredibly uncomfortable.
“I… would try the same.”
“I’ll bring out a small kettle then so you both can set it up to your preference of strength.” The waitress offered a winsome smile, unbothered by his hesitation. Or even the fact that he would copy Araminta’s likely good taste. “Give me a couple minutes and I’ll bring it on out. In the meantime, let me know if you want anything to snack on.”
Pivoting on her heel, she left with a easy glide. Leaving him a moment to visually follow after before adjusting sights to the table and the princess.
It seemed it was a day for surprises! There was no hiding the way her eyes widened, nor the immediate expression of delighted joy on her features. Others would likely think it was such a foolish thing for her to be so excited over something so small and unimportant. Yet, it was important. A step forward for Theon in being brave in a new sort of way.
Araminta didn’t say a word out loud about it, thinking that too much attention about these little steps might make him shift awkwardly and second guess it. Instead she just clung to her pleased grinning.
“Did you know that there’s so many different types of tea and that depending where you go, the locals will have a certain sort they prefer? In my area of the mountains it’s always juniper tea. It’s evergreen so it’s easy to come by even in harsh winters.”
He was actually expecting some sort of comment. Practically prepared for it but when it didn’t come, there was no sense of botherment. Rather he seemed to appreciate there was no amusing quip pointing out that he was doing something that so far in their travels, he had not done. Rather had a repulsive reaction to it. Not that the thoughts in his head were doing any favours, practically rampaging about what could happen. But he needed to get the control back.
Little steps was the way he could do it. At his own decision.
Instead, it seemed Araminta was going to impress him with knowing a tidbit of information that he wouldn’t have ever considered about in the past. Watching her softly and trying to fathom the spread of variety of teas. “They make tea from a tree?” He seemed actually surprised by that. He knew tea pouches were bunches of various herbs. “Is… is that common?”
Araminta emphatically nodded, glad to share these little tidbits of knowledge for a chance to put them to use, even if it was just to distract and entertain Theon.
“It is something I learned in my studies? Even though I was not the heir, I would still eventually end up with a position of responsibility over a village somewhere. A kingdom, a village, or a household the maintenance of it is the same, only on a different scale. You use the resources that are most easily available first and foremost, stretching them in every possible way you can without over consuming.”
No one in their right mind would be interested in such things, goodness she remembered how much her siblings complained about all the books they’d have to read and the facts that needed memorizing. Of course, there were moments Araminta had been just as difficult – wishing she could be outside in the fresh air or somewhere strumming along on her harp. But she’d always been interested in people and all of the different ways they did things. Perhaps it was the curiosity of a sheltered princess wanting to know more about the world beyond the confines of her castle home.
“During the winters traveling becomes near impossible due to the snowfall. A village, even the whole kingdom could become isolated from the mountain passes until the spring thaw. Over time you learn every bit about the land around you, even to the grass and trees to know what can be edible, or to make other things. It’s so different from here in Essurn or even the Imperial City itself, where there is always easy travel!”
He found it truly interesting to listen too. To take from her pearls of wisdom and chew upon with slow concentration. Digesting every little tidbit that maybe was supposed to be rather normal in a prince’s life.
Finding her due care to such knowledge fascinating. Even as she reminded him why she knew this stuff due to the fact she was to be wedded off to some smaller portion of the countryside and maintain it. But he was interested more so to the fact she knew how to forage for the right things. “Do… you know a lot about such things?” He asked curiously. He had obviously found herbs and flora very curious in itself. A preference that he learnt to broaden his intellect for his own safety. But he hadn’t thought about too much about teas that could also be made. Then he had a slow thought, “Snow is common then for the mountains?”
Araminta had to pause and ponder for a moment to his original question, with her chin in her hand and contemplating all those loose strands of information rattling around in her brain.
“Before I thought I knew a lot… I thought I knew everything there was to know, really. Which might’ve been true about Caeldalmor itself. Then I left the mountains and discovered there’s so much more that I don’t? Much of it is still applicable anywhere, but I found out very quickly that sometimes things look the same aren’t always exactly so.”
In that moment she wrinkled up her nose seeming almost sheepishly embarrassed by the fact.
“Wild carrots look very much like a thing called poison hemlock here and I don’t think I’d ever been so sick in my entire life. I threw it up almost immediately, which is likely the only reason I am even still alive. I lost a few days in the forest, but I was alone then so I can’t be sure…”
Now that Araminta thought about it, the rate of which she’d dodged death must’ve seemed absolutely supernatural. She really, truly should’ve been dead a dozens times over! Better to quickly deviate away from that train of thought, or she was bound to have some sort of crisis of existence.
“The winters are long there. Our capital is built into a mountainside at the highest point of the valley so it’ll have snow from mid fall on into the sping. Then the valley itself has a longer warm season. Winter is always drenched in snow, though. A blizzard could drop several feet of it over night and bury a house under it.”
Well she knew a lot more about her homeland than he would have. Never having been to that part of the world, he had never actually seen the mountains from the inside. Let alone what sort of climate or flora or fauna existed there. The people, the culture. It was all a mystery. Which he sought to learn from her when she was willing to divulge.
Leaving him to lightly consider her expressing how wild carrots and hemlock looked very similar to another. Lucky indeed she was that she had thrown up so soon, otherwise she may have never started any of this little quest or trails.
A temporarily look way was made to the waitress when she brought over a couple of small cups with handles and that of a kettle. Rested on that of a small plate that sported the satchels of bundled tea. Making it clear that they were truly about to make the concoction themselves. Actually alleviating some of his deep seeded dread about eating or drinking what others made. Though he wasn’t much of a tea person in general. Only having had it before if there were those times he had felt reasonably unwell in his gut. Likely from fevers caused by injuries. So he knew the premise of how to steep tea. Flipping the little kettle lid and dunking the satchel packet into the hot water. Listening along while preparing the hot drink in turn.
Peeking at her with the statement of how much snow could fall indeed. “How does one leave then if they are buried in such deep snow?”
On the inside, Araminta was on the same page as Theon, it was quite nice that the waitress brought the tea out so they could prepare it as they pleased. A soft tiny baby step to ease him into foods prepared by others. It was an encouraging step, as it meant that when she had a chance to learn how to prepare meals herself and they made them together, he’d be much more inclined to actually eat it!
…after she got past her first few failures. Araminta wasn’t about to feed him some hot disaster and set him back if it turned out cooking was not for her.
“They don’t,” she admitted, watching as he steeped one of the satchels. “Families have to make sure they’re prepared before the first snowfalls. Houses are made with stone to make sure they can handle the weight and property laid out for ease of shoveling paths so one can at least reach animal barns and food stores. In the harshest of winters neighbors may not see each other for weeks. That’s why it’ so important for Lords or Mayors, or whomever might be in rule to be well acquainted with their land and the people in it. You’ll know who needs the extra assistance before the snow falls.”
Making sure the kettle’s lid was sealed to trap in the warmth so the little silk bag would be able to steep out its flavours, he found himself naturally curious to how one could be buried within their home. Unable to realistically put together in his mind’s eye just how much snow it would have to be to literally trap those souls within their abode. Inviting his question and of course Araminta was ever the font of replies.
They didn’t.
Turning features almost in a mesmerized fashion at this blunt statement whilst she sought to clarify further. That people knew this was a risk that could happen. Taking time to then assure they had everything planned and managed within their little nook. That how the importance of a true leader was so vital in such situations. Leaving him to be very perplexed and interested at the same time.
Folding hands on the table then, “Then you were trained for these potential situations as you stated you were to be likely wedded to a lord of the countryside?”
He seemed so surprised and perplexed by these things, for which Araminta herself couldn’t been too surprised by. …or should she be? It was hard to imagine a prince without a proper education in all that having a royal title entailed. Though, she supposed she’d met a prince or two that was wildly irresponsible and didn’t much care to learn.
That wasn’t Theon, however. He seemed to very much enjoy learning new things, despite his usual stoic expressions.
Leaving Araminta wondering why the Imperial Queen even bothered to have children at all if she weren’t going to properly teach her heirs and allow them to grow into their full potential. Finding, that in the moment she’d answered her own question. One couldn’t control a person that knew better. Worse yet, she valued them so little – or rather valued them as nothing more than physical tools be used like a cut of a knife. Theon’s fear that the woman wanted to extend her life to rule forever might actually be truth.
How could anyone stop a person like that? Araminta sure hadn’t been taught how to topple evil Queens!
“A country lord would’ve been most likely, though there was always a chance I could’ve married a royal from another clan in the mountains. Kingdoms beyond my own. Like here. My father was growing frustrated because I wouldn’t make up my mind of where to go.”
He was fascinated by this steady stream of knowledge. He knew about his mother’s ruling area and that was probably about it. There was little need for him to be entirely educated on the means of the nation when he was merely in name a prince but in action a perfect little puppet that had done her bidding for a long time. Only now starting to shed that control –which was obviously going ever so well.
So if he was to learn about other places, he was going to have to ask. In this case, Araminta. As she was truly the wealth of knowledge right now. Especially about her own lands. “There are other mountain kingdoms?” Asking curiously at first only to spawn into something more. “What places where there that were also vying for your attention?”
Araminta laughed softly, if only because he seemed so surprise to know there were more than just the twelve kingdoms and her own hidden away in the mountains. Maybe at one time she too was surprised to find out how vastly big their world actually was. She’d grown up knowing of the mountain kingdoms, and was delighted to know there were places beyond the snow covered peaks. Then in the Imperial Lands was so stunned to see just how far they stretched and how many places had been part of it’s empire.
An alliance of twelve kingdoms seemed like such a beautiful example of peace and prosperity. How despaired she was to learn the truth about them!
The princess reached out to rest her hand over his folded pair, giving a gentle squeeze of affectionate encouragement. Araminta would never tire of answering his questions, she’d teach him everything she knew, and then would learn more just to share that too!
“I never had a chance to see their homelands myself, but there are several? There are a few tribal clans off in the farthest north that worship all of the old gods. An elven kingdom built on a cliffside near the ocean. An underground city of dwarves. Other valleys just like mine too.”
She scrunched up her nose then, thinking of those that had come to try their hand at wooing young princesses. Her parents hadn’t liked the idea of betrothals and thus waited until their children were old enough before they were officially introduced to court. Then it felt like there was always someone around for a visit.
“I suppose there were a few. Some more bold than others. Very few bothered to try and know me, so I did not make efforts to know them either. I didn’t want to marry someone that couldn’t even be my friend?”
Mind opened in a sense to the details being offered. Expressing other places in their vast world that were beyond where the boundaries of the twelve were. As if such places to him were nothing but magical myths instead of reality, he hung close on her words. Even as he looked to where her hand fell and squeeze. Finding the presence peculiar but welcomed regardless if the idea of physicality was still a mystery to him. Just that he waited and thought in length at what she was mentioning.
Eventually, “I assume many thought you beautiful and seen only that.” Theon knew she was what people would consider painting worthy. To write poetry about her would be a compliment, but he didn’t think people knew how clever she was either. If he was to understand, it seemed like Araminta had been a doll in her princess days but not forced into it. Just may have seemed that way. “An elven kingdom with the cliffside and the ocean.” He stated then, “I believe that is the place you would thrive best. The ocean present and new culture to learn.”
He meant it, “Perhaps scholarly in the future?” Suggesting that she may still visit such places with a new mentality in mind. To learn rather than to be wedded into. “Perhaps find a friend there that would like to know you.”
Araminta nodded to affirm that her appearance tended to be the first and only thing that most of her suitors would notice. Taking no offense to the statement, as one couldn’t be mad at truth. Had she wanted, she could’ve downplayed herself and dressed demure, hide her features and be more wildly unkempt. Only, Araminta actually did like getting to wear lovely gowns and getting to feel beautiful. And in it’s own frustrating way, it helped her discover who only cared about what was on the surface, rather than who she was and would be as a partner.
That was the crux of it, really! Araminta wanted to fall in love and be swept away with someone she connected deeply with! Love wasn’t going to bloom with a person that treated you like a pretty trophy to be put on a shelf.
Meanwhile, there was Theon. Who seemed to think it was his responsibility to help her find a happy future life. To which Araminta found so wonderfully endearing and oh so amusing, when she herself was attempting to guide him towards such a future. He was the one that needed it and deserved it the most!
“Trying to send me away again so soon, Theon?” she asked, making it fully known that this was just a tease by the way she smiled and squeezed his hand again. Tapping her fingers there to make a point as she continued. “I have a good friend now and am learning new things and seeing new places every day. But I would very much like to take you there one day and we could see it together.”
One could only imagine the sort of things Araminta dealt with when it came to royal affairs and marriage proposals. Funnily, somewhere deep in the back of his head… he hated thinking about it. Which in itself raised a bunch of questions. Ones he had no answer too but wasn’t sure he was ready to voice them either. Instead, he thought about the places she listed and what he thought would fit her personality that he knew.
Deciding on a kingdom that was on a cliffside facing the ocean. Liable to see her mingling amongst the elven culture with her whimsical personality that could charm and beguile all around her. To become a hot topic in such a place. He thought it fit her and would believe that such a place would align with her want to learn instead of to be saddled and settled.
Looking at her with the jesting tone he was starting to learn and addressed visually the squeeze to his hand. Registering she was playing with him, not looking to call out something he did that made her displeased. Softening the corners of his own eyes to potentially show that he was attempting to be emotive while appreciating her faeish candour. “As you say. Though I have troubles still understanding your way of thought when it comes to myself.” One admitted easily enough, “I would go wherever you wish. So long as it’s with you.”
“It’s nice to spend time with someone that really sees you, isn’t it,” she stated first. Only to find herself just as quick rendered almost speechless with the faintest of flush when he did that thing again, of saying something so openly sweet. A sentiment she whole heartedly agreed with, as Araminta was certain no matter where she went she’d happy if Theon were there.
Pulling her hand away, the princess made herself busy with pressing the back of her fingers against the tea kettle to test the temperature, deciding quickly it was plenty brewed enough for the serving. Taking it upon herself to arrange their cups, pickup the kettle and deftly pour them both and proper cup.
“If it’s too bitter for you we can ask for sugar or honey. Or cream even, that is good too depending on the tea,” she explained, maybe a lil softly, but that smile of hers hadn’t faded and her verdant eyes were back to curiously peering at him again. At least as subtly as she could, anyway, so he wouldn’t feel like she was staring and watching to see how he reacted to his newest experiment.
With a statement like that, he could agree. Though he was still trying to figure out just who he apparently was beyond the means of crown assassin. Lackey sent on missions for the Imperial Queen because she didn’t like that person anymore. Or had a message that needed to be sent in bloody red. However he could still agree that in the time with Araminta, he had begun to learn a lot more. Identifying things that needed to be altered with him, others and the status of the twelve kingdoms. Listening to others talk and how the general morale of people weren’t exactly thriving but not sinking under the tow either.
Just it seemed that the kettle had done its work to where the young dame was pouring out the hot fragment drink. Not sure what he was picking up but it was less floral and more fruity. Light, as he considered options that could dull the means of potential bitterness. Nodding gingerly with the acceptance that it still could be altered as he stared at the cup.
It had been tampered with. The tea had been put into the hot water by his own hand. And now poured by Araminta’s. Affirming that nothing was wrong and this quiver of anxiety that pressed in his stomach had no place in existence at all.
Taking the ear of the cup to lift and bring closer to pick up the subtle twine of fragrances, hesitation lingered at the lip of the container. Time needing to be regulated to his whim before sipping cautiously due to the means of it being hot and well, his mind playing stupid games of what happened to the beverage even in their midst. Entirely implausible too.
Letting it soothe and rest over tongue before being coaxed further down, he set the cup down. Needing additional time to think about it. “It is fine as is.” He wasn’t sure he could will himself to add anything to it anyways. This was already a step forward.
She could have cheered, or squealed, or threw her arms around him in a triumphant hug. None of which he would appreciate to draw so much attention to something he was fearful and insecure about. So Araminta merely kept her pleased proudness contained to her ever wide grin, and her focus on picking up her own cup within both hands to take a sip herself.
It was a blend she didn’t recognize, but the taste was warm and reminded her very much of Essurn itself with some sort of citrusy undernote. Araminta could’ve done with some honey herself, but found it was pleasant enough on it’s own that she didn’t feel it was worth the trouble of asking. Thinking, it would be very easy to brew wild teas as they traveled as it was one thing she knew she could do with wild herbs and no extra skills needed to brew now that she knew how to set a proper fire. Just water, heat, and time was all that’d be required.
From there. Araminta figured the best way to help him drink was to be sure he wasn’t thinking about it! Making good use of her endless supply of blabbering to hold his attention, so that drinking would be an automatic action and not something he fretted about.
She talked about the style of music the minstrels would likely play, and what each of their instruments were named. Mostly focusing on the ones with strings, as that’s what she was most familiar with. Filling his head with all sorts of useless facts on how the instruments could be made with wood, turtle shells and even bone. That once he brother had told her the strings were made from animal guts and that she couldn’t play for a good week or so. She explained her very first instrument was a harp, and that they were so large and heavy that one time when she was smaller it had fallen on her and she was stuck there until someone picked it up off her.
All through these silly stories the tavern’s patrons were slowly piling in as the day’s work came to a close and people came for their evening drink, meal, or simply to enjoy good company and music.
It was somewhere between the means of new patrons filing in and between the extensive details of musical instruments and such that he eventually waved down the waitress once more. Making it clear that they had a few errands of the letter sort that they would like to hire someone to take to the mailboxes. Leaving the springy haired woman to nod and express that she would send someone over that could complete the messenger system for them.
Behaving no different that even if there was someone that came into the tavern with the intention of keeping an eye on them, nothing would seem any different. Just that he would leave the means of the letters to be pulled out to Araminta while he kept his attention well attentive to her. Nodding and humming without interruption. Taking more sips from the tea as much as possible till a wiry looking rail of a fellow came up. Tapping on their table and asking where they wanted the letters to go. As he would do the errand works seeing as he had a few other ones to handle if the bag at his hip had anything to say about it.
Araminta felt very much like a covert spy for the crown. Only the crown was hers… or Theon’s? Either way, pulling out a stack of letters addressed to a large number of the royal and noble families in the twelve kingdoms while in a growingly crowded tavern felt like the sort of move that only grizled and talented mercenaries would make. Even now Araminta still felt the idea was solid – perhaps even more than before, simply because she hadn’t remembered every noble in the kingdoms and knew that as gossip spread, those who didn’t get a letter would also try to infer what THAT meant.
The princess did not like to play dirty games, or games at all really, as she much preferred being honest and direct. But it felt good to be finally making a move of action towards something, even if it was just in a proactive defense of themselves. So far it had been nothing more than running or reacting, and that would only get them so far.
With her stack of letters passed over to the twiggy man and instructions given, Araminta was finally able to let go of that last little bit of worry that’d been lingering in the back of her mind. Free now to scoot her chair closer to Theon’s to make conversation that much easier once the din of the crowd was loud enough to make it difficult. Trusting that Theon would know when it was best for them to leave, and thus allowing her the space to just enjoy their last evening in Essurn.
He would not push or insist on early departure once the messenger boy had collected the stack of letters –never mind the look he gave Araminta for having such a stack. As if trying to silently guess just why on earth a single woman had written that much in the first place! But with payment given over, the man was about as silent as the grave. Uncaring a second further about the what or why or the how. Just that there was new bit of weight that of one’s coin purse. Blissfully giving their departing goodbye before sliding into the growing mass of bodies that were here for the music of the minstrels.
Feeling the shuffling of the young woman drawing closer. Bidding the strength of uninterrupted focus to be given over. No fuss, no muss. Contently listening to what he still considered simply orchestrated noise but knowing that after this evening, the means of the trials would be the first priority once more. The rest would cease and the watching over one’s shoulder multiplied.
So he merely carried out a dutiful effort of being aware of their surroundings. Lingering in the spot for a good presence of time in case anyone was curious about them. To show they were in no rush or hurry to scamper away from Essurn. Allowing the waitress to bring hot water once more and let her insist on them having some sort of meal. Knowing she likely made better tips when one was either drunk or very content. The latter wasn’t about to occur so she tried to insist on food for bellies. Leaving that choice to the princess as he wasn’t that bold to start taking food from sources that wasn’t his own fingers and craft.
Only once he was certain that their time had been plenty within the space, likely closer to that of two hours, he gave her a light tap to the elbow. Humming once and making a slide of irises to indicate they should begin to leave. Where the crowd was getting excited the more they drank and he was getting particularly fussy with the raising volume’s. Preferring the means of quiet ever more.
To retrieve the various gear that they would need to carry once more through that of Essurn to the entrance or exit in this case, “When you are ready.” He softly spoke though more due to the noise rather than just being quiet.
Araminta hadn’t needed a meal but she had ordered something small simply because it suited their ruse. People who had the time to enjoy dinner and music weren’t suspected of being about to flee a town in the glowing hues of a setting sun. Their continued stay almost didn’t feel long enough, but she knew that was simply the pang of knowing they were to return back to a life of danger and difficulties. While Araminta surely didn’t want to stay in Essurn forever, the chance to rest there meant more than Theon would likely ever realize.
So when he signaled her that it was time to go, there were no complaints, sighs, or fussing from Araminta. Merely an unhurried gathering up of their things and a quiet exit. Following Theon’s lead for the trek out of town and even a bit farther until they were safely enough away from the city itself so that Theon could take up his speedy steed form. She’d finally grown comfortable with this means of faerie transportation and horsely form, if only because it was Theon and not an actual horse!
It didn’t take any convincing for the pair of them to make a stop of the hut first. Araminta wasn’t about to carry everything they’d collected so far, nor did she want Theon to have to haul everything for her. She’d also decided that carrying all of her quest items with her could prove to be a risk in itself should she get into anymore trouble. Not wanting to have to backtrack and do a trial all over again should something be lost or stolen!
Thus Araminta made quick work of unpacking their bags and making fast decisions of what needed to stay and what they’d need with them.
The jug of mead and extra food that’d keep well over time she stored away in a cedar chest, ready to be used whenever they were home or needing to resupply. Her collected shell was set on the window sill along with the lily from her hair, deciding that when the petals dried she might put them in something else to save as a treasure. The parasol, fishing pole, and fish basket tucked away in the corner to be used whenever they were not busy with a trial. Her silk nightgown folded neatly away and stashed with the other linens she’d acquired for Theon the last time she’d needed to stay put and rest. The quest items she wrapped up in one of the blankets to be hidden away.
All of these tasks she explained to Theon as she did them, simply so he’d know how and why she did the things she did. To allow him that chance to see a bit of her thinking processes. Briefly she debated having them spend the night there at the hut itself, but ultimately decided it was better to get on to the next location so Theon could be sure there was no one waiting there for them and that Araminta would be able to begin immediately first thing in the morning while she was fresh and full of energy.