Tale of Four

Holding his hand out, Ser Keep helped Mabel down from the carriage and turned his head away, seeing her warped expression made from anger and hatred at the entire situation. Although a navy floral dress had been provided for the first introduction, she had vehemently refused to wear it, instead choosing her usual black trousers and button-up top. Looking ahead at the welcoming party, Mabel scanned the men and women ready to greet her before finding the one man who caused everything: a thin, tall man with green hair with streaks of dirty blond in it.

Everything about him was just wrong to her. He was beautiful rather than handsome, soemthing most Clover men were. He wore clothing that should be worn under armour, yet Mabel couldn’t help but feel it was unsuited. Nothing about him screamed of a warrior; rather, he was a beautiful man trying to play war after hearing stories about it.

Looking down at herself, her lip twitched as she scoffed. Thinking about herself, she wondered if it was Elias, her father and mother thought about her, just a girl who played with swords, thinking she was a warrior. Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward and held her hand out for Gerald. Looking at it for a moment, Gerald took it before lowering his head, kissing the back of her hand, then placing a hand on his chest and bowing.

"Princess. I am honoured at your arrival and even more so by your acceptance." Mabel rolled her eyes and pulled her hand back. Wrapping them behind her back, she held herself firm, subtly wiping the hand that was kissed on her shirt.

"Thank you for such a warm greeting." Mabel forced the words out, trying to make herself as presentable as possible. Even if she despised the entire situation, she still had to uphold her title as Princess. "I understand my lodging has been prepared."

Looking into his eyes, she clenched her fist, unable to stand the way he gazed at her, his eyes working across her body. The unfiltered desire that looked at her like a prize, soemthing to be won and owned. Walking foward so she didn’t have to continue seeing the gaze, Gerald quickly followed and smiled.

"Of course, my lady, but they shall only be temporary." There was a small smirk in his words. "Now I am sure you’re tired, my Princess, but we must discuss the matter. Unfortunately, the marriage will have to be rushed. As for the date, it will be tomorrow. A dress has been prepared alongside all the preparations, so it will at least fit a lady of your station."

"Excuse me. I was under the belief there would be at least a week for me to... prepare myself." Mabel peeked at Ser Keep, who gave a subtle shrug, having heard nothing about it.

"I understand your concerns, Princess. A wedding is an important moment in any lady’s life, but you must understand the constraints of war. We cannot spend lavishly, nor can we delay such an important alliance. My aunt’s marriage to your uncle would have sufficed, but unfortunately, I have heard Prince Vincent has been sent elsewhere. This is to say, in the future after the war, we shall host a proper one, fitting of your status."

"A betrothal is another form of an alliance, as is a marriage." Mabel narrowed her gaze. Peeking back at Gerlad she saw a strange flash of annoyance in his eyes. "Is there a reason to rush?"

"Princess, the marriage is tomorrow; the matter is settled. The Doyles have already spent too much money for this marriage. I know it is not your desire, but some would assume you are insulting your allies by wishing to delay the marriage when so much has already been done." Gerald moved, grabbing Mabel’s hand. It was a bold move, lacking any charm or subtlety.

Mabel quickly yanked her hand away. "You forget yourself. We are not wed yet. Do not think you can grab hold of me as you see fit." Gerald scowled but quickly corrected himself, putting on his thin, charming smile.

"Forgive me, Princess. Within the Flatland, such actions are natural. I hope you understand I meant no disrespect." Mabel stayed silent, continuing to walk foward.

"You are forgiven. But I wish to rest. Alone. I have had a long journey and desire some peace. I will also take any meals prepared for me in my room. My appearance is currently undignified, and I do not wish to embarrass yours or my family by making them believe I do not care for my appearance before others. Of course, right now I am forgiven, as I had no time to change or prepare myself." Before Gerlad could counter, Mabel spun, placing a hand on her chest. Unlike a curtsy a woman should have given, she bowed, "Please do not take this as an insult." Forcing the next words out, her lips twitched as she smiled, "We will have time in the future to get to know one another."

"My lady, it is a shame, but if you wish to rest and prepare yourself before the meal, we are willing to delay it for you. This is, of course becuase I understand your long journey. I am sure this is fair. Besides, no one will question your dignity. War affects all, especially women." Mabel clenched a fist behind her back and took a deep breath.

There was no escape from such a compromise. "I understand. Then please delay the meal. If you will excuse me, I shall rest now." Turning before Gerald could say anything, Mabel marched foward, Ser Keep taking to her side, shooting Gerald a glare to force him to stay back. Even if he didn’t fear Mabel, the Kingsguard was different.

"A revolting man," Mabel said under her breath, forcing the servants sent towards her back with a quick look. "Touching me so easily. Looking at me in such a way. A horrid person."

"Bear with, Princess." Ser Keep replied. Looking around, he saw Elias’s personal guard sent along, always watching them, particularly Mabel. "A marriage isn’t official on the altar. You will have to say the oaths and offer him a kiss." Ser Keep thought for a moment. "Your words alone will be enough to make me act when the bedding ceremony begins, but I am sure you understand better than anyone what public opinion means."

"What are you suggesting?"

"Make the condition where you cannot be bedded. An injury or illness. It does not matter. I will act for you to stop it regardless, so long as you say the words, but I am one man. Some of Elias’ guards may stop it if you scream and beg, but the Doyle men won’t. Make them believe that the bedding is unjust. That way we may avoid a more confrontational means to put an end to it." Ser Keep finished and grabbed the hilt of his sword. "Do not worry. I have already prepared my life to help you on this. I swear by all oaths and honour I hold. Should they slay me, any goodwill regarding the marriage will be gone, and will force the king to act."

Mabel nodded but frowned, "I do not want to beg Ser Keep." Picturing the scene in her mind, of the numerous guests watching as she was defiled, begging for it to stop was something that sickened her. She would rather slit her own throat than be made to beg. "What do you suggest?"

"An injury would have been easy, but since you declare to rest, I cannot spar with you as I have done before." Ser Keep lowered his head and sighed in regret. "I do not know, Princess. I have never been good at such schemes." Mabel clicked her tongue and nodded. Looking around, she saw a man approach, a butler with bright eyes. Holding two letters towards Mabel, he bowed.

"Message from the King, Princess." Walking off, Mabel raised an eyebrow before tearing the top one open.

’Mabel. I am well aware of what Elias has done.’

The first line made her heart beat in anticipation, which was swiftly crushed by the next one.

’Carry out your duty. That being said, I shall reprimand Elias for the actions he took to force you to leave the Palace. Should you read this one first, hand the second letter to Adrian Doyle. You will not marry a bastard child, and be made the lesser in such a marriage. Should he decline what little mercy I am offering for this ploy he is carrying out, the marriage is over.’

Mabel’s lip shook. Even if it was a small mercy, it was nice to know that her father at least considered her position, even if the reason was different.

’Finally. I must head south and deal with the Waterway. After the marriage, join Kevin Bundy. You are to listen and follow all commands he gives.’

There was no ending, no farewell or regards, but to Mabel it didn’t matter; she was used to her father’s letters. Smiling, she carefully pocketed it and opened the other letter.

’Lord Doyle.’

Like her own, it lacked any pleasantries, getting straight to the point.

’In regard to the marriage between Mabel Cosmaton and Gerald Stem, I have decreed that such a marriage will be in favour of my daughter. All vows of submission and humility will be spoken by Gerald Stem towards my daughter, Princess Mabel Cosmaton, and any child born from such a union will carry the Cosmaton name. Gerald Stem shall not take the Cosmaton name from such a union, but he will be offered all privileges that someone of his new station will be afforded.’

’This is non-negotiable. Do not attempt to circumvent it. I have faith in your loyalty, and as a loyal vassal of your king, I am sure my letter is enough and will not require me to repeat this in person.’

’Signed, Anton Cosmaton, second of my name, King of Veston, sovereign over the Great Lords, Protector of the People, Chosen of the Lord of Creation.’

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