Eos and Azmehr stand proudly waiting for their daughter. She is back temporarily from her studies and they were throwing a ball in her honor. A banquet table is set with a massive feast. Monol stands with them idly chatting as dignitaries and friends mingle, feast, and dance.
Eos: she should be down by now
Azmehr: she will be, she will not disappoint
Monol: ((takes food off a passing tray and thoughtfully chews as he watches the two of them converse))
Eos: I should go get her
Azmehr: she’ll be down. I made it very clear the expectations behind tonight and what it means for her future
Eos: …what do you mean
Azmehr: Eos this is standard protocol. She must accept her place.
Monol: what’s going on?
Eos: she will officially accept her ascension to the throne tonight.
Azmehr: appearances only of course. She will never actually sit on the throne
Eos: well…
Azmehr: or be accepted as a half elf. Just ridiculous.
Eos: ((sighs)) she’ll also be announcing her engagement to the kingdom. We thoroughly vetted the boy she’s been dating and while he isn’t ideal…
Azmehr: he can be molded
Monol: wow
Eos: yeah…she’s very late hun, shouldn’t we see what’s happening?
Azmehr: no. She’s an adult. Go mingle and enjoy yourself. The evening will continue on as it will
Monol: I’ll go ((pats Eos’s shoulder))
Monol doesn’t go looking for her but instead just retires to his room in the palace. He stands in silence for a moment and then starts packing a bag when there’s a light knock at the door. He opens it to find a distressed Ioline. She’s dressed in a light purple and silver evening gown. He ushers her inside quietly and shuts the door before verbally greeting her.
Monol: You’re missing your party
Ioline: I don’t think I want to go
Monol: are you sure? You look quite ready to join in the festivities
Ioline: maybe I don’t want that life
Monol: there’s a steep price to pay for your absence, my lady. I would make sure you’re absolutely certain. You have a little time, but not much
Ioline: I don’t want the throne
Monol: ((stops packing)) why? You’d be respected and be a beautiful change to the kingdom. Are you afraid you won’t live up to your parents? Your dad will be proud and … well, like I said, you’ll be a beautiful change from your mother.
Ioline: I want to join you in your adventures
Monol: …my lady, they’re dangerous.
Ioline: I can look after myself
Monol: ((frowns)) I appreciate that you liked the taste of that life, but its tough. You’d be throwing away your future for something you’ll get sick of in six months. I think you do want this. You got ready to stun the world with your presence. Seeing me shouldn’t change your mind…and you should be happy to share your engagement. I…((clears throat)) congratulations.
Ioline: my what?
Monol: …go enjoy the evening and tell me all about it when I return
Monol grabs his packed bag and leaves Ioline in his room. He makes he way down to the stables, taking the long way to clear his head before he rides out. As he enters the stables, he’s surprised to find her there waiting for him. She’s changed into her riding leathers.
Monol: My lady?
Ioline: you didn’t say no
Monol: didn’t I?
Ioline: please
Monol: until tomorrow you’re still considered heir to the throne my lady…its your decision, and a hefty one. I’m not sure your fiancé will understand? I don’t think I would, in his position.
Ioline: He’s not my fiancé.
Both pause and start saddling horses. A few glances are shared between them and soft smiles when the other isn’t looking.
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