Charles Audley Posted October 11, 2018 Share Posted October 11, 2018 Cordelia and Chatham, approaching Anne-Elisabeth and Ogle "Nor am I," Charles admitted cheerfully. "Never really liked or trusted the creatures." Horses were untrustworthy in his experience. They looked so dull and placid, and then the next thing you knew the beast had brained the colour-sergeant and was doing its level best to trample you. An important lesson, that. A horse is always more dangerous than his cavalryman. He patted their chosen horse on the shoulder. "Though I am prepared to make an exception in this case." Indeed, I quite regret my earlier resolve to have him made into glue should we lose. He shrugged as they talked of Lady Cambray. "As I said, I know little of her. She is freshly arrived from... Barbados, I think she said? The Carib, in any case." He smiled at Cordelia. Charles quite liked her, he decided. She had spirit and style, and he prized both. If he read this request for an introduction right, she had a streak of devilment as well, and he liked that too. "It would be polite to greet our erstwhile rivals," he conceded, giving her his arm. It would be fun to needle Ogle if nothing else. "Well run," he hailed as they drew close, wrapping himself in his best amiable sportsman air for the formalities of the introductions. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Davina Wellsley Posted October 11, 2018 Share Posted October 11, 2018 Davina and Company Joined by Toledos Davina was not exactly well-pleased that it was these two but she could hardly conplain and so answered back "Indeed Lord Toledo I would much appreciate any assistance for Mr. Osbourne especially and then tis hoped I shall be unscathed! I am indeed grateful for your aid as well Lady Toledo." She knew that it was unlikely that the Ambassador would step forward and be hands-on leaving that to one of his Gentlemen surely. "Who has won?" She asked as she waited for her own delivery. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted October 12, 2018 Author Share Posted October 12, 2018 Davina More servants scurried to assist, along with Master Killigrew himself. "Try and right the sleigh if you can." Try as they might, the sleigh was too heavy. "Pull them out lads," he instructed them. "Heneage Finch? What do you mean by that?" Peregrine asked in surprise to Davina's comment. "The elder or junior?" Was young Hen courting her? If so, that might explain much. He hoped not. He had his own plans for the pretty Catholic young lady. "Finch is boring. All men of books are," Osborne attempted, hoping to sway Davina away from such pursuits. The Toledos arrived and Davina replied. "Get the lady first," Killigrew barked. "We be needing to lift the gentleman first came the reply. "See, Miss Wellsley? They have to drag me from your company. What other man would be so besotted with you?" Rough hands grabbed his wrist and pulled him, causing much discomfort to Davina as he was dragged over her body. Peregrine was loving the slide over her body. His boot also caught the hem of her dress, which lifted as he was pulled forth. "Be gentle with the lady you oafs!" Killigrew demanded. Toledos Esteban mostly watched as the servants attempted to untangle the two passengers in back. "Sophia, you had best see to the lady and that she is not … compromised," he offered quietly, worried about propriety as always. "Need assistance Master Killigrew?" "No, Your Excellency," Killigrew responded, having little use for gentile hands in lifting dead weight. "I could use a hand," Churchill bellowed, "and a drink." Ogle and Anne-Elizabeth "Here comes one-eye and the old bag," Henry whispered to Anne as Chatham approach. "Yes, well played sir. A fine run," he lied in response. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cordelia Lucas Posted October 12, 2018 Share Posted October 12, 2018 Cordelia and Chatham Converse Then Take A Stroll To Meet Anne-Elizabeth and Ogle A brow arched a bit at this information. "The Carib you say? Indeed. I am curious to know more. Come lead me there and make the introductions." She held onto his arm even tho the distance was short her eyes taking in the Lady measuring her up. The younger man beside her she was well acquainted with and he with her as kin to his father The Duke. "I wonder if she knows who He is? I am sure he has wasted no time in telling her and she looks the type to 'hunt'. You must tell me what your impression is and then we shall compare notes - are you up for another challenge?" "Ah yes. By all means observe the Social Niceties." She let his have the first say standing quietly by his side. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anne-Elisabeth Devereux Posted October 13, 2018 Share Posted October 13, 2018 (edited) Anne-Elisabeth and Ogle approached by Charles and Cordelia What part of 'will you help me out of this sleigh' did Lord Ogle not understand? He seemed too distracted by the approaching winners to see her outstretched hand. And I thought that he was a gentleman, Anne-Elisabeth thought with an internal sigh. She was too afraid of falling again to try disembarking on her own. Maybe Lord Chatham, whom she had told about her unfamiliarity with cold weather, would be more helpful. She smiled at the older lady as the two gentleman complimented each other on a race well run, but then turned her attention back to the one-eyed Earl. “Congratulations on your victory,” she said. “I think we all did well." Extending both hands toward Lord Chatham, she asked: “Will you assist me out of this sleigh, my lord? I think I need more practice before I trust myself to successfully navigate the snow.” Edited October 13, 2018 by Anne-Elisabeth Devereux Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sophia de la Cerda Posted October 13, 2018 Share Posted October 13, 2018 The Toledos, Davina, and Company Esteban didn't actually help, but he offered and was refused. He urged her to assist Davina, which she was happy to do. Once the man had been pulled off of her, Sophia held out her hand. “Here, let me help you up. Lord Chatham and an older lady I've never met won the race.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charles Audley Posted October 14, 2018 Share Posted October 14, 2018 Anne-Elisabeth, Charles, Cordelia, and Ogle "She was told of his pedigree when partners were first drawn, and all I have heard of the gentleman suggests he would not have failed to confirm it to her," Charles said with a one-shouldered shrug. He smiled thinly as Cordelia asked if he was ready for another challenge. "Always," he confirmed. Compared to Arundel, Charles did not think Ogle looked like much. The Howard scion wore his confidence and easy manner like they had been tailored for him. Ogle's attempts hung on him like a boy wearing his father's coat. Though perhaps that is unfair. Arundel is older, I seem to recall, and every year matters at that age. "You almost had us," Charles complimented, still wearing his mask of hearty sporting gentleman. A lie, that, to his mind. There had never been a moment where Charles had not felt in control of the race. But if he had read the boy right, Ogle would be stung all the worse by such an approach, and it appeared gracious. "Ah, but where are my manners? Charles Audley, Lord Chatham, at your service, my lord. And might I introduce my partner, Lady Lucas?" That was not the correct way to do things, but this was a rather informal setting. "Not quite all," he commented drily in response to Anne-Elisabeth, nodding towards the toppled sleigh. "Who overbalanced, do we know?" Is that little George? Charles was distracted from his musing by Anne-Elisabeth's question, and blinked in momentary surprise. He had not considered the fact that she had not dismounted yet. It seemed odd, now that he did. Had she and Ogle fallen out over their loss? Resisting the urge to shoot Cordelia a significant glance he moved to assist. "Certainly, my lady. It can be treacherous." Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Davina Wellsley Posted October 15, 2018 Share Posted October 15, 2018 Davina With Compnay and Toledo's "The younger of course. I do not find him so" Was she refering to the elder of the two brothers in rememberance of that shared 'kiss'? "Why even YOU could well benefit by some book-learning Osbourne! Why it might even make you a Better Man .... Is that Killigrew? Enjoy it then Sir for not like to happen again.!" He was pressed into her body by the removal attempts and she turned her face away from his foul breath and she gave a exclimanation or two in protest at the way it was being done and she felt the sudden cold air on her legs but could do little until his weight was lifted free of her body and she could hastily rearrange herself and then sit up. It was then that she heard the voice of Lady Toledo offering her aid and with a smile pasted on davina accepted. "Indeed Lady Toledo I shall accpt and most happily. I am glad that so many see how ill treated I have been by these two 'Gentlemen' but to be fair Churchill's only fault lies with his inability to mangage a sleigh and horse" She reached out her own gloved hand and took the others' and was thus able to be set to rights quickly. "Chatham? Well even with just one eye he's managed quite a feat! Older Lady? Here point then out ...." She stood by Sophia her gaze turned towards the group giving a sudden shiver. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cordelia Lucas Posted October 15, 2018 Share Posted October 15, 2018 (edited) Anne-Elisabeth, Charles, Cordelia, and Ogle Lord Chatham was very well equipped in his abality to turn a phrase and Cordelia allowed a small smile to play about her mouth as she listened to the by-play. That the young woman had remained seated she could take as a slight yet there stood Ogle as well. Chatham had made the introduction as her gaze traveled over to the over turned sleigh and the cluster of people hovering. "I do hope there have been no injuries. No doubt distracted by all the activity on either side. Lord Chatham is not prone to such things and I was still able to advise despite taking a hit. What a good shot." She directed to Anne-Elizabeth. "Yet quite wasted I am afraid. Perhaps I was mistook for another?" Her eyes then traveled to Ogle and one brow arched ever so slightly at his silence. Edited October 15, 2018 by Cordelia Lucas Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicolette Vauquelin Posted October 17, 2018 Share Posted October 17, 2018 Nicci approaches Davina's group And then it was all done - all the people unloading from their sleighs and converging excitable chatter of all they had done. "What a great game this was." Nicci crowed, and letting go of the monarch she jumped from the table, all smiles. Not a soul would know of her private frustration at him ignoring her advances yet again. He was really a bit of a cold fish, she was growing very tired of this laborious game. There was only some much throwing herself at the King one lady could do. On that thought her eyes slid towards Davina and her group. Still all smiles she gave a glance at the King, there was something of a challenge in her look, and then towards Davina she sashayed. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Hope Posted October 17, 2018 Share Posted October 17, 2018 Charles, Chatham and Frances Quote Charles have Lady Chatham an urgent look. The older lady would know what to do if this was a female thing. Surely. Lady Chatam's eyes flared of the unexpected occurance, but regained composure quickly enough for the sake of the distubed gentlman. Poor man! Plainly ill prepared for this, but what man would be?! "Oh my dear..." it was a mothering tone that Mary then took towards the girl as she placed a soothing hand, with a pause to relay an 'Ive got this' look to Charles. the continued, "come with me to the carriage... " at which she moved to escort the shocked girl away. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted October 18, 2018 Author Share Posted October 18, 2018 Ogle He had been too engrossed with facing down the arrivals to hear Anne's rquest. It was only when Chatham accepted the request and moved forward to assist Anne in disembarking that the Cavendish heir understood his mistake. Vainly, he made a motion to assist but then gave up when he saw that Chatham had the advantage. "Next time," he remarked politely in response. Yes, he was certain that he would best the one-eyed lord if a rematch were ever to occur. When Audley made introduction, Ogle spoke up. "I know the lady. She is kin to the Cavendishes." He had seen her with his mother some year or two in the past. He could not recall correctly. Who could pay attention to old relatives? "This is the Countess of Cambray," he introduced Anne-Elizabeth. He did not know much more about her. Peregrine Davina all but confirmed that young Heneage had an interest in her. Other than being the Chancellor's son, the youngest Finch had little to recommend him to Osborne. "Oh, I read books Madam," he assured her quietly. "Perhaps I might invite you to my place to show you my collection?" Osbourne rolled off Davina once the servants pulled him forth. There was no more fun to be had by pressing his body against hers, at least in front of these witnesses. "It has been a pleasure Miss Wellsley. I trust I shall see you soon." Sophia moved to help Davina and her skirt to protect her modesty. Peregrine moved to pull Churchill forth. "Wake up George!" he barked. Churchill was looking too comfortable laying there. With a yank they pulled the sputtering George Churchill free from the sleigh. The King He was quick to assist Nicolette's descent, following soon behind. It was important for monarchs to be seen caring about the injured. "Who was in the sleigh?" he asked Killigrew. The Duke of Newcastle was trailing behind. "George Churchill and Peregrine Osbourne Your Majesty. They overloaded the sleigh with Miss Wellsley. None are injured. Shall we send the gents to the Tower?" Thomas jested. "They broke the rules, and my sleigh. And they placed a lady in harm's way." The king did not pass judgment immediately, waiting to see if the Lady of Misrule might intervene for some fun. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anne-Elisabeth Devereux Posted October 18, 2018 Share Posted October 18, 2018 Cordelia, Charles, Anne-Elisabeth, and Ogle Anne-Elisabeth was even afraid to stand up in the sleigh, afraid she might accidentally topple it over. And so she remained seated while Lord Chatham subtly goaded Lord Ogle about losing. She had to applaud him for his cleverness … complimenting his opponent but bragging at the same time. When he introduced Lady Lucas, she nodded politely. She was about to introduce herself, assuming that Ogle wouldn't remember her name any better than he remembered his manners, but he surprised her. And it seemed that he was acquainted with the older woman. The Countess had no idea who the Cavendishes were. “I meant the four of us, my lord, not all of the competitors, she said to Lord Chatham.” She had to turn and look behind her to see the capsized sleigh. “Nobody I know, but considering I only arrived in London a few days ago, that's not unusual.” Lady Cambray smiled at Lord Chatham as he assisted her out of the sleigh, and held lightly onto his arm for balance. “Thank you. I thought that I was going to be stuck in there forever.” Releasing his arm, she transferred her grip to the side of the sleigh. If he offered, though, she would take his arm again. Lady Lucas seemed a bit miffed that Anne-Elisabeth had hit her with a fluffy projectile. “No snowball is wasted when it hits its intended mark,” she grinned. Had the lady thought that she would be spared because of her age? She had known she would be a target when she signed up for the race. “It was indeed a lucky shot. Snow seemed like a myth to me when I was growing up in Barbados.” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sophia de la Cerda Posted October 18, 2018 Share Posted October 18, 2018 The Toledos, Davina, and Company being approached by Nicolette, the King, and Company The man … Sophia didn't think of him as a gentleman because of his lascivious attitude … who was pulled off of Davina was handsome but far too forward and crass. Whoever he was, she would attempt to avoid him. If he was so bold toward a lady of the Queen, he probably wouldn't hesitate to try dallying with another man's wife. He might even think that cuckolding the Spanish Ambassador was a fun lark. Not that she would ever give him anything but a slap in the face, but Esteban didn't need rumors of her infidelity undermining everything he was trying to achieve. A man who couldn't control his own wife would never be taken seriously. Yes, she had cheated on him with Lord Arundel, but they had both been discreet and she trusted that the Earl would keep their affair secret. Davina accepted her offer, and she helped the other woman to stand. Ignoring the rest of the drama going on around the inverted sleigh, Sophia quickly scanned the crowd and nodded to where the winners were conversing with another couple. “They're over there, talking to Lord Ogle and another lady I've never seen before.” She didn't see the group approaching them. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charles Audley Posted October 19, 2018 Share Posted October 19, 2018 Anne-Elisabeth, Charles, Cordelia, and Ogle "I look forward to it," Charles told Ogle, smiling. I really, genuinely do. Helping Anne-Elisabeth down, he saw her cling to the side of the sleigh. Amusement flickered in him, and he offered her his arm again. There was nothing improper in offering support to a lady uncertain of her footing, after all, and it would be instructive to see if she took it. In the privacy of his own head, though, he could freely admit that he did it mostly to needle Ogle. Returning his attention to the overturned sleigh, Charles offered Cordelia a smile. "You flatter me my lady. With your able direction all that was required of me was to keep the horse true. A simple enough task, though apparently beyond the abilities of some." He frowned. "That is George Churchill, I think, and I believe the lady is Mistress Wellsley. I do not recognise the third. Did they overpack the sleigh?" He might have offered further comment, but his focus was seized by the beginnings of a faint blurring and discolouration in the corner of his vision. Oh God, not now. His migraines were not always preceded by such an aura, but those that were were always the worst. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cordelia Lucas Posted October 19, 2018 Share Posted October 19, 2018 Anne-Elizabeth, Charles, Cordelia, And Oagle To Chatham - "I never flatter un-necessarily and when praise is due, and in this case justly so, tis given." "The dark-haired girl I have seen before I think. The others I do not know either. Childish to do so if that is the case." To Anne-Elizabeth - "Then I bid you welcome Lady Cambray. Such a far off place. Travel is always uncertain in Winter and that place you left has Sun or so I understand. For one unused to 'snow' you are remarkable adept at knowing is usuages." It was clear that the young woman had joined in with enthusiasm and so Cordelia could not, in all truth, find fault nor take offense. But she was Trouble Cordelia was sure and it seemed both Ogle and Lord Chatham were already ensnared. Young Ogle would soon find himself out of his depth she concludes and as for the other he was well practiced. Her gaze went to that Gentleman in question and rested there for a few moments then traveled over to Ogle. "Give my regards to The Duke your Father. I shall come to call on your Lady Mother in the New Year. Well then. What happenes next? Shall Misrule offer the reward do you suppose Lord Chatham? I hope tis quickly done for tis colder now." Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Caroline Despanay Posted October 19, 2018 Share Posted October 19, 2018 Ever the gentleman (as well as faithful friend and mentor too), Francis extended his hand to help her alight the sleigh, which was easily enough accomplished. Caroline was not that competitive to have been even slightly bothered by losing the event, she had enjoyed the activity even. Besides she got to pelt the Spanish ambassador with a snowball. Her only regret was the icy missile did not have a rock within it. Most of everybody's attention was going to the overturned sleigh as people went rushing to help extricate the unfortunate passengers. Caroline took one look and highly doubted anyone was actually seriously hurt. Besides there were more than enough people to attend to the gallant rescue. She was not going to bother joining that crowd. Something else drew her attention. Aha! It was young Frances being led away toward a carriage by some older noblewoman, she looked upset...or stricken...or maybe just sad as it seemed to Caroline the girl usually looked. Poor captive thing. But here might be her chance to get to talk with Frances! "Francis, please.....accompany me. I wish to see what is wrong over there. I may have need of your intercession though I dearly hope not," she suddenly decided her course of action and made as dignified a beeline as she could toward the two ladies and their carriage. Hopefully Francis would follow. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Robert Saint-Leger Posted October 26, 2018 Share Posted October 26, 2018 Beverley aided his wife out of the sleigh, heart pounding away in his chest, even if they had not been going that fast. "Churchill deserved to be hit for how idiotically he was driving that thing," Beverley whispered to his wife, having good sense to make sure Davina was all right before chuckling at Mary's aim. If there were not three of them cramped in the sleigh and the two gentlemen moving around and doing who-knew-what to the lady...well, it had nothing to do with Mary's snowball at least...not in his mind. He was not keen to be near Osbourne again. He had successfully avoided the man since Brighton. Though...he was somewhat concerned that this was not the first time the other man had...importuned himself of Mistress Wellesley. Thus he reluctantly headed that way. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Francis Kirke Posted October 26, 2018 Share Posted October 26, 2018 Francis was not sure what Caroline was pointing at, but with the hurry in her step and distress in her voice, he did follow her. In fact, he caught up to her in a few steps of his long legs. "What is wrong where?" he asked. All he saw was Langdon and...Ogle?... and then some ladies heading away. Neither of those seemed particularly wrong when a carriage was overturned, but with her tone of voice, he knew he was missing something. Or perhaps she was trying to coax him away to warm up? Surely not, that's an idiotic thought. I'd be far easier to coax away than needing such artistry! And he knew Caroline would know that well enough! So, then, what was amiss? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charles Whitehurst Posted October 28, 2018 Share Posted October 28, 2018 Charles and Lady Chatham Charles did not interfere with the older lady. She seemed to know what to do. Still, Frances was his ward so he followed along, not wanting to leave Frances in her distress, nor allow her to sneak off. In his mind he was beginning to realize that this problem with Frances was starting to outgrow his ability to control things. He really knew very little about parenting, other than having been a teenager not very long ago himself. Of course, his youth had been spent in the Royal Navy and dragoons, so he did not have a point of reference for how teenagers were raised in wealthy homes. He would need help. He knew he needed a governess, but perhaps he needed to have Frances stay with a lady that he trusted. But whom? He supposed that Catriona and her sisters could watch her, though Fiona would be a bad influence on Frances … and himself for that matter. Anne Scott would be grand, but she was a Duchess with her own problems. Darlene might have looked after her, but she was gone. How did one go about broaching such a topic? All of this floated in his thoughts as he followed along. He would wait outside Chatham's coach, so as to give Frances some privacy. However, if she tried to flee, he would be ready to give chase. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted October 28, 2018 Author Share Posted October 28, 2018 Ogle Henry Cavendish was feeling like a fifth wheel at the moment. He offered a polite nod towards Chatham but otherwise became an onlooker. When Cordelia bade him speak to his father, he nodded again and answered "yes maam." In fact, he saw his father approaching behind the King. Henry did not know whether to run towards his father to flee the awkward situation he found himself in, or flee from him. Instead, he merely stood his ground and fretted. Osbourne and Churchill George Churchill staggered to his feet as did Davina with the aid of Sophia and a helpful royal servant. Davina was in better shape that George, who was favoring his left arm. "You looney," Osbourne chided. "Now look at what you did." Churchill whispered through a grimace in reply "bugger off. It was your movement in the back that toppled us. I may have broken my bloody arm, if not my neck. Is Davina fine?" He turned to look for himself. "Oh yes, she is very fine. That is why we invited her, if you recall," Peregrine replied in witty retort. George was in too much pain to appreciate it. "Glad you are healthy," he muttered aloud to Davina. It was clear that he was in pain. Osbourne eyed Sophia as well, convinced that she was especially fine too. "The King is coming," Peregrine warned. "It is time we beat a hasty retreat George. No good will come of this." Esteban He had been turned into an observer as well. Once he was satisfied that Davina was fine, he moved towards the winners to congratulate them. he approached Charles Audley and Cordelia. "Congratulations," he offered. "Well driven." Mary St. Leger She nodded at her husband's logic, glad that he was not holding her accountable for the accident. "What were they thinking with such reckless driving?" she asked more rhetorically than meaningfully. "They are lucky no one was hurt badly." Many courtiers lost their lives in coach mishaps during the year. Driving was best left to commoner drivers with the training. "What should we do husband? Should we go speak with the others, wait for the King, or … ." She looked to follow Beverley's lead. King, Killigrew and Nicci "The pearls," the King commanded and Killigrew held forth a black velvet box. "Here they are Majesty." "Do you wish to present them my Lady of Misrule, or is it our royal duty?" Eying Churchill and Osbourne, the King renewed his question to Nicci. "A night in the Tower seems appropriate for placing one of my Queen's ladies in peril." Yet, he was imagining perhaps something more amusing. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Davina Wellsley Posted October 28, 2018 Share Posted October 28, 2018 Davina She turned towards Churchill as he spoke to Osbourne and so she was able to meet his gaze before noting his injury. "I hope tis not as bad as all that - I do not see how you thought to manage George - yet I sense remorse which is more than the other has." She took pity on him as the use of his first name might indicate then caught the eye of one of the servants that loitered still saying in a firm tone that 'they were to assist the Gentleman at once and see him safely removed back to the Palace and into a Physcian's care.' It would be up to the Gentleman to accept or decline naturally. Osbourne was ignored completely as her gaze went to where The King and Misrule advanced unsure if they or the winning sleigh was the destination. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anne-Elisabeth Devereux Posted October 28, 2018 Share Posted October 28, 2018 Around the Winners Anne-Elisabeth grinned at Lord Chatham and took the arm he offered her, moving closer to him for both warmth and support. “Ahh yes, I recognize Mistress Wellsley now. I met her at the ball last night during the limerick competition. She's very nice. You're most likely right as to why they flipped over. I don't think these sleighs were meant for three.” She was quite surprised that Lady Lucas welcomed her to court so amicably. The Countess had expected a snide remark instead. “Thank you, my lady. I've actually been in England for a year, but last winter, I was in mourning for my lord husband, who perished during our journey here. Travel is indeed treacherous at any time of year. As for the snowballs, call it beginner's luck. I doubt I will be able to throw one so accurately again without more practice.” A dark-skinned gentleman joined them, Spanish if she was any judge of accents. She continued to hold on to Lord Chatham's arm as he and Lady Lucas were congratulated on their victory. Lord Ogle was all but forgotten. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sophia de la Cerda Posted October 28, 2018 Share Posted October 28, 2018 Davina and Sophia's Group Esteban didn't ask her to accompany him when he walked over to the winners of the race, so Sophia stayed where she was, not wanting to leave Davina at the mercy of her two racing partners. One of them appeared to be injured. She remembered Master Churchill from her concert at Windsor. He had been more intrigued with her bosom than her voice. No wonder those two men were friends. They were both lewd and disrespectful to women. Davina didn't seem to need any help as she took charge of the situation, instructing a servant to make sure Master Churchill was taken to a physician. It was then that she noticed that Nicolette and the King were heading in their direction. Stepping closer to Davina, she whispered: “His Majesty is probably concerned because your sleigh overturned. Maybe he will chastise the gentlemen for overloading it. It would serve them right, don't you think?” Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Charles Audley Posted October 29, 2018 Share Posted October 29, 2018 Around the Winners Do not panic. We have time yet. Just linger here as long as courtesy demands and then retreat back to your rooms to suffer in peace and darkness. All will be well. Charles took a breath and did his best to ignore the foreboding aura lurking in his vision. Anne-Elisabeth's closeness as she hung on his arm was a familiar thing, and it helped centre him after his momentary upset. He knew where he was with a pretty woman at his side, and what he had to do. He gave her a toothy grin. "George was half a boy when I knew him last, and foolish even by those standards. It's the sort of idiocy he might well get up to." He rested a hand on hers under the pretence of keeping her steady, and not even the looming threat of migraine could suppress the petty triumph rising in him at Ogle's expense. Still grinning, he turned to answer Cordelia. "Reward my lady? I confess, I did not think there was any save the sport of it. But if there is one, I suspect it will be conferred once his Majesty is satisfied that all is well with our fallen competitors." He might have gone on had Toledo not arrived to offer congratulations. Charles inclined his head in greeting. "My thanks, your excellency. You drove passing well yourself, for a man who must be even less accustomed to snow than the rest of us." Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicolette Vauquelin Posted October 29, 2018 Share Posted October 29, 2018 King, Killigrew and Nicci Thomas suggestion did impress Nicci, and the King liked it too (possibly he was the ultimate Lord of Mischief!) And she had no affection for Oogle, a man who was perhaps the most uninspired randy youth at court - "Yes a Night in the Tower, or perhaps a weeks servitude to the entire fleet of Queens ladies by way of small recompense. Should we not let Mistress Wellsely choose his penance?" In a quieter voice she added, "To the prizes, it shall mean much if awarded by Your Majesty." She'd not rob another of that. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blackguard Posted October 30, 2018 Author Share Posted October 30, 2018 Ogle remained quiet, happy to be forgotten. Esteban moved forward looking for introductions to those in Audley's company. "A sound plan," the King complimented Nicci with a smile. The King moved towards Davina, Sophia and the two men that had capsized a sleigh. He was followed by Killigrew, Nicci and the Duke of Newcastle. Davina's words sparked the servant into action, moving to assist Churchill back towards the palace; however, the arrival of the King halted the exit. Peregrine started to slink away as the royal party approached. "Master Osbourne and Master Churchill, attend our words," the King uttered sternly. "You needlessly and recklessly endangered the life of this lady. You both will spend the night in the Tower and report to the Constable. You are free at daybreak on the morrow, but you must each do Mistress Wellsley's bidding on the morrow as recompense for her injury. Mistress Wellsley, what act do you wish these two gentlemen to perform for you tomorrow?" Both men bowed to the royal command, Churchill grimacing as he did so. The King nodded at Sophia. "Lady Toledo, a pleasure." The King then signaled Killigrew to detain the winners. Thomas moved to join Audley, Cambray, Lucas, Ogle and Toledo. "His Majesty will be here momentarily to present your prize Lord Chatham." Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Davina Wellsley Posted October 30, 2018 Share Posted October 30, 2018 (edited) Davina and Company Sophia's whispered words proved to be correct and she sank into a reverance as He arrived before them. Her head went up at his words and she looked then to the two Gentleman who were now being chastized. Eyes widened at hearing they would be Tower-bound which was rather extreme and so she wondered if Misrule had a hand in it. The King then directed his words to her and being put on the spot held no appeal yet answer she must. "Your Majesty I am unhurt as plainly seen and this was after all simply for Amusements sake. Yet I am Commanded .... Tis still Christmas Time and to say further hardships would seem Unseasonable and I have no wish to be seen as 'mean'!" "Might Your Majesty consent to something Charitable instead?" Her gaze traveling to Nicolette then back to the King. "Perhaps our Lady Misrule might suggest? And since Mister Churchill bears the brunt of their Folly yet still must be included shall some monetary recompence be done by both? I think Your Majesty might say the amounts ....." She smiled up at The King hoping that she presented a charming picture plus showing her lack of resentment for the ill-fated ride. From her still in reverance position - for she had not been given leave to rise - Davina hoped that the King would understand that she did not wish to make them do anything too distressing and Churchill was far from able to perform any sort of manual labour anyway. Edited October 30, 2018 by Davina Wellsley Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicolette Vauquelin Posted October 31, 2018 Share Posted October 31, 2018 (edited) Davina & Co Nicolette tipped her head as Davina was forgiving - it was an anti-climax of the fun poking Killigrew’s idea. Davina was definitely suited to her role as gentle lady in waiting for the queen. "La! You must have northern heritage Masters Churchill and Osbourne, for you are near to getting off 'scots free'!" Nicci exclaimed brightly. "But it is hijinks that you brought to disaster, and thus with hijinks you must pay! If it need to be seasonable charity as well, then... I would see your figures embrace the Nativity: tomorrow afternoon one to take the pose of babe in the manger, one as infant, and other donkey. All who pass by this display at palace entrance gains might make donations to an alms box set there too. I would certain gift a shilling for such a sight! Nicolette was forgiving also, but would not pass by the opportunity to make a little sport. Edited October 31, 2018 by Nicolette Vauquelin Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cordelia Lucas Posted October 31, 2018 Share Posted October 31, 2018 (edited) Cordelia Chatham And Company She smiled back at Lord Chatham as he voiced his thoughts. "A commendable Spirit indeed Sir and one I applaud! We sgall see what tis inshore if that be the case ..... It would seem His Majesty is thus occupied but close enough to here." "I am sorry to hear such a Tale." She said quielty to the younger Lady. "Well as to having another chance one never knows what lies ahead but suggest that as I have already served as 'target practice' you now seek out others!" Her words held some amusement as she was not really that out of humor in regards to this arranged amusement. Chatham then offered thanks to another Gentleman who Cordelia know by sight only and that had only been on two occasions and they were not introduced. "Your Excellency." She bent the knee somewhat and gave a gracious nod. Master Killigrew then joined the circle and as Chatham had predicted they were told of what would be happening next. 'all well and good. I wonder if HE remembers having met me already in the Summer?' "I hope twill be soon as it grows colder and my feet have begun to feel it." This muttered under her breath. Edited October 31, 2018 by Cordelia Lucas Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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