Opening Reception

[Hope]

The Royals Mountjoy & Eleanor

"Which might suit my own intentions Lord Mountjoy as I hope very much more visible this season." Karoline replied.  Enough of sitting indoors days on end!  She hoped to be far more active this season.

Eleanor's reply then pleased her, she gave a smiled nod at the spirit shown, though it was then so prettily draped in a perfectly ladylike addition.  His Majesty made his fulsom reply, and then the brief meeting was coming to its conclusion.  Perhaps it was the novelty of a new comer, or was it the bravery of her reply, but Karoline was not so ready for her to disappear into the throngs for the rest of the season perchance never to speak again. So she added, "I would like to see your current work, please be sure to speak to young Lady Beverly to make it so."

 

[Nicolette Vauquelin]

Lady Worchester and Nicci

“His Grace endears my loyalty,” Nicci replied in a softened tone, realising that Lady Worchester had not meant to imply anything.  With a chuckle she added, “ -but yes, it is true, you might be forgiven to think me an ambitious girl. There is quite none other as fine at the English Kings court.”

Nicci did enjoy calling her lover ‘The English King’ upon occasions, the title amused her (in that really she was still surprised it was even true).  Still like many successes, it came at a cost. Which only made it more important to Nicci to find other gains in her position too.

“It is a very English thing, to mix with such an assortment."  Nicci mused, for her own Nation was rather more snobbish on that sort of thing.  “I have imagined it to do with the years of Royalists having to live rough so to speak, friendships there formed that opened nobles eyes to Espirit found in all manner of places.”

Mary wondered how Buckingham found the time, and with what all the gossips said he was up to also. “As they say the only things worse than being gossiped about, is not being gossiped about.” Nicci grinned. 

Nicci had heard the gossip about Francis too, but she was sensible of it.  Perhaps he had gone on a bit of a bender, but she was certain that anything untoward would have been performed in a perfectly gentleman-like fashion. Francis was a gentle spirit, not a fiend, anything partook in must have been consensual. 

“Yes Saturday.” She agreed to the riding date, though ears and gentle concern were then triggered.  “Riding alone, why would Arthur wish to do that. He’s not about any lady-mischief is he, we ought to have him followed is only for his own safety.”   

[Davina Wellsley]

Davina and Bristol

"Of course. It was foolish of me to think that nothing would be overlooked."

She had to smile at his self-description.

"You are hardly that - you are far too charming to be anything like that."

He had a very valid point. And once again she had made herself appear silly.

"It is not so much the 'complaining' that I can do well enough - it was playing a 'spy' that I was speaking of. But then, upon reflection, it can be no more different than playing a Courtier."

"Secrets and Plots and Schemes are an every-day way of Life here are they not Lord Bristol? I shall see it that way from now on."

He was back to playing the flatterer again and so she obliged.

"The Wild kind - those that grow free and unrestrained."

She had shown him a part of herself unknowingly in her answer.

"Shall we return or will we part company here? I would not like to see you with a chill  .....

[Darlene Hamilton]

Darlene and Elizabeth

"Which must be true of the Scotts also.” Darlene spoke, it was very easy to slip verbally into the bigotry, though in the past she’d been terribly liberal. Darlene had become practically best friends with Weroance Anne when she’d visited, and still had the furs the Indian princess had given her when she left.

Those unspoken thoughts were pushed from mind when the Duchess said they should find someone to do their ‘duty’ upon her.

“Elizabeth!” Darlene’s eyes flared with the scold, her pulse quickened.  “Alas it is not near so easily done, I mean lead up part of course, the part of getting married.  But I refuse to use a match maker, I hardly want a man who is too stupid to arrange his own courtship."  

[George Hardwick III]

George and Caroline approach Esteban and Sophia

Upon the realisation that - yes indeed - they were very late, George bent his head and murmured to Caroline, "Just act as though we were here all along." 

Thus Earl Chichester eased his fiancée into the room with an absence of fuss, trying to look like they were stepping back in from having taken a breath of fresh air.

As he did, he noticed his good friend Esteban.

"There you are Lord Toledo." he greeted, then with a bow to Sophia, "Lady Toledo, you look resplendent in such a happy condition." though did he perceive a hint of scratchiness to her demeanour. That was unlike Sophia  

"And you both know my Lady Despanay.  We were both delighted to receive your rsvp to the wedding, now but days away."  George did realise that the Spanish ambassador did not meet with great approval from Caroline, but she also realised he was George's good friend.

 

Edited December 19, 2022 by George Hardwick III

[Blackguard]

Merry Trio

"A fine idea of linking Merriweather and Langdon.  They are both louts," Sir Charles asserted.  "Langdon will have him arrested, Alexander will buy his way out, as he always does, and it will infuriate the Life Guard all the more."   Sedley could envision other complications.  "I will go visit Alexander at his townhouse and interest him in the venture."

Rochester seemed to have lost interest in the subject and scanned the crowd for other merriment opportunities.  James spoke more of his epic.

"Gentle love is a fiction, unless reserved for kin.  The only love worthy of a bard is one that is full of fantasy, fury, and futility.  As to conformity of any kind, it is best left to the weak," Rochester opined.  "We shall see what sort of fool your Neirin is."
"Sounds like a source for a play," Sedley added, always on the look out for new material for his next play.  "Speaking of which, I should be off to find Killigrew.  He must be about Windsor.  The King would want it so."  He prepared to excuse himself.  Rochester looked to do the same as the Gang dissolved.

[Blackguard]

Darlene and Elizabeth

Elizabeth found herself giggle at Darlene's response.  "Quite right, let us find you a proper gentleman.  All of my male kin worth a fig are already married.  My grandfather, who you knew well, had a brother Charles that never married and no other siblings, so I have few cousins.  The Devonshires go back a few generations and are all married," she stated as she mentioned eligible Cavendish men.

"I think Charles Mordaunt is a good bet.  He is a 20 year old Viscount and Baron.  He is a Whig, but you could forgive him that.  There is Thomas Herbert and all of the King's gentlemen are all unmarried and good catches.  Dorset is a double earl and broke things with Frances.  Maybe you could do better, though he is a libertine.  The Chancellor has a second son.  There are others Darlene.  My father has eyes for some for one of my sisters but you are more beautiful and far more clever," her friend flattered.  "Christopher will help you."

[Aria]

Charles and Henrietta

 

“Hosting salons and encouraging intelligent, accomplished ladies to participate would be a good start, I believe. Maybe the gentleman who attend will not take them seriously at first, but I think they will come around and start to enjoy discussing and debating subjects with ladies who know what they are talking about.” Was it a good plan? Henrietta was curious as to what Charles would think of it.

 

She laughed at the notion of courtiers taking lessons from pigs. “It might even improve their behavior.”

 

Her eyes lit up when Lord Chatham asked her if she wanted to continue meeting at the library this season. “Of course I do. In fact, I can hardly wait. When would you like to start?” She had no qualms about bringing a chaperone along.  She doubted that the woman would understand anything they said. If she reported their activities to Henrietta’s father, it might even work in Charles’ favor. The Duke had known that his eldest daughter thirsted for knowledge since she was a little girl. He might prefer that she marry a gentleman who would accept that rather than try to suppress it.

 

Henrietta considered his suggestion carefully. Her father had given him permission to spend time with her, and he had suggested that she receive one of the King’s puppies. However, they were not betrothed and approaching the King together might seem presumptuous. She didn’t want to do anything that might change her father’s mind, and it was better to be safe than sorry.

 

“I’m not sure what my lord father would think of that, and it is best not to anger him. I do want to thank the King for Minerva but it is probably more appropriate for me to do so in my parents’ company rather than yours. I definitely think you should congratulate them on your own, though. If my father sees you speaking with the King, it could be beneficial to us.”

 

[Charles Blount]

Mountjoy and Eleanor departing their Majesties and approaching Lady Mountjoy and party

As a valediction he said to the King “Truer words were never spoken Your Majesty” He said about the Kings quip about his peacocks “But at least I can set the dogs on mine when they get overly pestiferous.” And to the Queen’s desire to be more active “I look forward to that most eagerly.”

But Elenore was not content to be deemed overawed and added her own example of incisiveness. He looked over at Eleanor with an arched eyebrow, he did not think she had it in her to make such an intrepid statement. He caught the King’s eye and gave him a knowing gaze as if agreeing that she was indeed feistier than she originally appeared. He chuckled as he said. “I believe that Mistress Baying has carried all before her so there is noting else for us to do other than to withdraw from the field.” He bowed to their Majesties “Sire… Ma’am.”

As they moved out of immediate earshot of the Royals he leaned towards Eleanor’s hopefully good ear and softly said to Eleanor. “That was very nicely done. I scarce imagine that an arranged introduction could have been so successful. It appears that I have been unperceptive in my initial assessment of you and failed to appreciate that rectitude and manners are only one facet of your quality. Lord Grey should be very pleased as I think, as well, will Lady Lucas.”

They had not far to go before they approached the equally regal figure of the aforementioned Margravina accompanied by Princess Dorothea and an unknown gentleman who, according to the King, was her brother. Yet another set of introductions were in order but this one tempered by the intimacy of two of the participants. Approaching he said “My dearest Lady Mountjoy, forgive me for neglecting you so.” But, instead of the customary short bow and courtly hand kiss he took both Ursula’s hands and gave each a real kiss. Some variance was allowed for married couples though most did not avail themselves of it. “I can only plead blindness as a result of the public presence of the Queen after so many weeks of deprivation.” He turned to Dorothea as they were already acquainted and greeted more formally “Princess Dorothea, so very nice to see you again.” Before addressing the group in General. “May I present The Honorable, Mistress Eleanor, daughter to the Viscount Bayning and kinswoman to Lord Grey, Baron Grey of Codnor.” He added the last as Germans were very keen on using the style of Baron. To Eleanor he expounded “I present the esteemed Lady Mountjoy who is the Queen’s Mistress of the Robes and of course my wonderful wife.” He dispensed with her German titles as he did not wish to encumber her companions and the English always considered their own titles to be superior to foreign ones.

[Charles Audley]

Charles and Henrietta

"That would be a good beginning," Charles said, after considering for a moment, "but... you surely know this already, and I do not mean to discourage you, but the idea that certain women can be the equal of any man in intellect and authority is not new. Theano, Hypatia, Anna Comnena, Isabella of Castille, Christina of Sweden, our own Lady Ranelagh and the Dowager Duchess of Richmond... all women, all widely acknowledged as formidable, and yet the regard in which your sex is generally held is such that you feel compelled to change it."

He smiled gently, an expression that doubtless sat ill upon his features.

"If you wish merely to have yourself and perhaps select friends taken more seriously, then salons would perhaps be enough. If, however, you wish to elevate the estate of all womankind, then they will be a good beginning, but just a beginning," he said softly, holding her gaze to impress his seriousness on her and to gauge her resolve.

He waited a moment, and his smile became an entirely more natural grin of encouragement.

"But the labour would be a worthy undertaking, and of great benefit should you succeed."

He was delighted to see how eagerly she agreed to continue their study sessions. He had not realised how much he himself had enjoyed them until recess had deprived him of them.

"Sunday afternoon, perhaps, if that suits?" he suggested. Any sooner would have been embarrassingly eager on his part, and Sunday would give Ormonde adequate notice and time to arrange an appropriate chaperone.

It would have been presumptuous at best for them to approach the Royals together, he reluctantly conceded as Henrietta agreed with his instinctual reaction to the idea.

"That tallies with my thoughts," he admitted. "Shall I escort you back to your parents, then?"

Edited January 2, 2023 by Charles Audley

[James O`Neill]

The Merry Trio Dissolves

“You see, sirs?” James replied as Sedley considered the Merriweather-Langdon plan and found it meritorious. “Lord Rochester’s little challenge aside…” Which he was quite looking forward to, admittedly, being precisely the sort of thing that would help reinvigorate him during a lull of inspiration. “With my addition, we three have a knack for strategic thinking. I return now to my original point about young minds.”

The smug look across his face didn’t fade until Rochester began evaluating his characterization of Neirin – himself based on a “prince of the bards” and war poet – as having acted unbefitting his craft. It didn’t, however, fade on account of disappoint – instead, James’ features lit up in genuine excitement. Incorrigible though the older rake may have been, it was flattering to think that they may have been kindred spirits, at least in literary philosophy.

“Quite so, my lord,” he agreed. “Neirin’s sin, I think you’ll find, is more than material treason, horrid as that is – ‘twas treason against our art.” Sedley said that the pitch sounded worthy of a play, which prompted a bemused smile, having not considered that – or indeed, being a dramatist, at least not since his chances of writing a libretto with Lucas Cole were dashed by a love fantastical, furious, and futile. James considered it for a second before answering, “If you still believe that after reading The Rising, perhaps we ought revisit that notion?”

Flattering again, to think that a famous dramatist would adapt one’s work – if given proper credit, James would jump at the chance.

But the group began to dissolve, and it would not do to wear out his welcome, so he nodded as Sedley moved to depart and said, “And I ought to see if His Grace needs me yet. My lord, Sir Charles – it has been a genuine pleasure.” He bowed deeply, and looked about for Ormonde, or at least another Butler. “I do hope to hear from you soon.” And with that, he made to leave, more than satisfied at his progress towards breaking into court’s literary scene.

[Aria]

Francis and Frances

 

Lord Kingston was cordial to her but there was no hint of his usual playfulness. Have I done something to make him mad? When he mentioned those silly broadsheets, Frances understood that he was trying to protect her from making a mistake that might hurt her own reputation.

 

She waved one hand dismissively. “Oh pay no attention to that meaningless drivel. They’re just jealous. You wouldn’t believe all the awful things written about me back when His Majesty and I were … close. They upset me but I eventually learned to ignore them. It won’t be long before some courtier makes a fool of himself and gives them something else to write about.” The Duchess saw herself as an expert on gossip and knew that it never lasted long.

 

Her smile brightened at his compliment. “Thank you, my lord. Perhaps the authors will take note of my fashion sense when they link us together on the next broadsheet,” she said in a teasing tone of voice. “You look quite striking yourself, for an upstart." The last word was uttered with a grin and a chuckle.

[Anne-Elisabeth Devereux]

Dorset and Cambray

 

Anne-Elisabeth had heard many things about Nell Gwynn, but had never met her or even knew what she looked like. She possessed a wicked and coarse sense of humor and was the only woman to become a member of the Merry Gang. Being compared to her was a compliment indeed. Perhaps Dorset’s words implied that she would be the second woman to be accepted as one of them. A girl could always hope.

 

“It takes more than harsh words to upset me,” she agreed. “And I never back down from a challenge. Maybe I should make a game of vexing him as well.”

 

He had a point about the ocean and had probably swum in one before. Anne-Elisabeth had been referring more to lying in the shallow water and letting the gentle waves lap over her body than actual swimming. “You shall have to convince me that bath water is silkier than ocean waves,” she remarked.  I've heard they have private rooms.  All I will have to do is pose as a gentleman to get through the door.  It will be good practice ...." she grinned seductively.  "... In more ways than one."

 

[Blackguard]

Dorset and Cambray

Dorset gave Kingston the nod that it was fine for him to approach.  There was no reason that he and Anne could not delay their planning.  Yet, the Duchess of Richmond intervened, so the Earl turned his attention back to Anne.

"There are some challengers best to retreat from, especially when Johnny is offering them."  Rochester was known for issuing challenges that would be foolhardy to accept.

"You and I think alike on the bath.  I am thinking something Saturday night, alone in a private bath.  You come in disguise and then I will enjoy seeing through the disguise," he offered suggestively.

[Blackguard]

Davina and Bristol

"Now you get it," Bristol complimented.  "Actually, spy craft is an entertaining sport.  It is why I volunteered for it.  You should have seen me as a younger man in Madrid," he laughed. "Especially when it is for a patriotic cause."

She was correct that they should part soon.  "Remember to wear red and we will come."

"Wild flowers," he mumbled in acknowledgement.  "Your message has been received."  He was a wise, if not reckless, man.

He reached for her hand to kiss in parting.  "I bid you au revoir fair lady.  We shall speak again soon."  With that he tipped his hat and moved in another direction.

[Francis Kirke]

Francis and Frances

 

Francis took a deep breath through his nose and nodded. That was what he kept telling himself. However, they were not attacking some temporary foible, either. Being labeled an upstart was no small slight or slander. It was one of those things that made the older nobility stare at your every move. 

 

Francis was a far better courtier than he had been when he had first arrived thanks to Buckingham's attention, but he still worried over confirming his status as an upstart by not having that raised-at-court sort of manner. 

 

"Nobody can claim you are not brave," he said to her with a titter of amusement. "Perhaps they will compliment our fashion and use of color, you are right." He chuckled and then added, "I shall have to thank His Grace for the beauty of the ensemble, for I have no eye for such things. The Duke, on the other hand, enjoys it - and subjecting me to tailors - immensely."

 

The Duke still commented on his green velvet justacorps he had worn when he arrived in Windsor. It gave Francis great joy that he had refitted it for Tommy just to annoy the Duke with its continued presence. 

 

"And perhaps you can aide in turning the gossip to something juicier than I? Surely you know far more talk-worthy things than the upstart cousin of a duke? The court season needs some liveliness in its talk, not depressing complaints of someone's fortune, and Your Grace is a leader of liveliness," he complimented.

[Defiance]

On 12/18/2022 at 10:29 PM, Nicolette Vauquelin said:

Lady Worchester and Nicci

“His Grace endears my loyalty,” Nicci replied in a softened tone, realising that Lady Worchester had not meant to imply anything.  With a chuckle she added, “ -but yes, it is true, you might be forgiven to think me an ambitious girl. There is quite none other as fine at the English Kings court.”

Nicci did enjoy calling her lover ‘The English King’ upon occasions, the title amused her (in that really she was still surprised it was even true).  Still like many successes, it came at a cost. Which only made it more important to Nicci to find other gains in her position too.

“It is a very English thing, to mix with such an assortment."  Nicci mused, for her own Nation was rather more snobbish on that sort of thing.  “I have imagined it to do with the years of Royalists having to live rough so to speak, friendships there formed that opened nobles eyes to Espirit found in all manner of places.”

Mary wondered how Buckingham found the time, and with what all the gossips said he was up to also. “As they say the only things worse than being gossiped about, is not being gossiped about.” Nicci grinned. 

Nicci had heard the gossip about Francis too, but she was sensible of it.  Perhaps he had gone on a bit of a bender, but she was certain that anything untoward would have been performed in a perfectly gentleman-like fashion. Francis was a gentle spirit, not a fiend, anything partook in must have been consensual. 

“Yes Saturday.” She agreed to the riding date, though ears and gentle concern were then triggered.  “Riding alone, why would Arthur wish to do that. He’s not about any lady-mischief is he, we ought to have him followed is only for his own safety.”   

 

"You are probably correct. Those years were very difficult for exiles and saw the rise of many a simple gentleman who stood by His Majesty once he was restored to his proper crown. There was much awarding of titles," Lady Worcester commented.

 

Her husband's family was one of the oldest in the land, and so such things were a topic of conversation amongst she and her Henry. 

 

She giggled some as Nicci commented that the worst thing was not being gossiped about. "I am certain that likely depends upon the sort of gossip," she then commented. 

 

Now feeling that it was not she that raised the topic, she said, "Is it true what they are saying about the Duke's cousin? That pretty blond?" Surely Nicci would know if that Kingston was as wild as they said. The gossip about him previous seasons had said he was rather dashing, and she knew from her daughter Lady Beverley that Kingston was His Majesty's gentleman who was left most often around the Queen; she rather doubted that the King would leave someone untrustworthy around vulnerable ladies and his then pregnant wife! Even though her daughter was now married and happy, she did not wish to have to worry about her with some rogue around! Talk was that Charles Kirke was a demon of a wastrel. Nicci could do much to assuage her worries.

 

"Oh Arthur will be attended, but he does not wish his mother or father to go with him. He likes to feel independent. Beverley goes with him sometimes and would be far more welcome than his parents. He is at that age."

[Defiance]

(OOC - Eleanor can still reply to the Queen before she leaves with Mountjoy, but I'm trying to keep things moving  )

 

The Royals with Basildon Approaching

 

After Lord Mountjoy left with the young lady and went toward his lady wife, His Majesty leaned down closer to the Queen's ear and said amiably, "Lord Mountjoy is very diligent and fond of you. Do you wish the Margravina and he to join your supper?"

 

He then commented, "And the young lady has proven not to be simple. Do not think I'm unaware that you aren't going to pour only over embroidery." He chuckled in amusement, appreciating that his wife had a mind and was not a vacuous thing. 

 

Even closer to her ear, he said, "And do not worry, I shall keep my promise not to flirt in earnest with your friends." His manner was as it was, so he could not escape being friendly to them in his way that tended toward flirty or he would not be himself, but he wished her to know he kept his promises to her. As it was, there was something incredibly alluring about a wife that could give him legitimate sons.

 

She had probably discovered this power. Little Charles Henry was vigorous, and it made him want to be vigorous in giving him brothers and sisters. It made him nostalgic to his own childhood.

 

The King then noticed Basildon approaching. 

[Cadell Mortimer]

Cadell, trying to get an introduction

Alone, Athenry sighed to himself. Perhaps I ought to have introduced myself to that Scotsman after all. The reception did not seem to be dying down, and the royals and higher-ups were to all appearances very engrossed in their own affairs. It was to be expected, of course, but presented an obstacle towards putting forth his own name and image.

But then, as a Catholic lord, obstacles were ever in abundance.

Present an obstacle…

Out of the corner of his eye, he caught sight of Bristol – famous enough for a fellow Catholic to recognize – departing the company of a vaguely-familiar lady, one of the interminable number of faces present at court that were recognizable but had no name to put to them. Having already considered attempting to gain an introduction earlier, and feeling stuck for activities otherwise (Chichester was speaking to the Toledos, which would be pleasant enough, if not especially productive), the Welsh viscount made his move.

God and the Blessed Virgin willing, I will one day become the one worth approaching.

Athenry ambled towards the parting pair, attempting to affect an aimlessness that might have been belied by his earlier lingering. His gaze deliberately focused nowhere in particular, hoping to at least get a proverbial foot in the door before the reception ended. Nearing Bristol, he started to stumble deliberately, with a genuine wince as he steadied himself against his cane in order to not actually fall. “This leg,” he griped, looking around as if embarrassed. “Pardon me, my lord.”

If one was to live as a crippled thing, it might as well be turned to one's advantage.

Edited December 21, 2022 by Cadell Mortimer

[Darlene Hamilton]

Elizabeth and Darlene 

Darlene was hardly ready for serious talk on matches, but the topic was more upbeat than it's previous, so at least there was that.  "I'd not want a Whig, nor a Libertine." the latter was what she'd belatedly found out CW was! 

Really none appealed, though perhaps possibly the Chancellors son. 

"I have sort of met him, but not really.   I came to share an office space at Whitehall with him, though in fact I had no need and did not see him in actual flesh. I did leave him flowers though so he cant think ill of me at least." 

Which was not really any sort of start.  And thought of it slipped from her mind at Elizabeths last comment. 

"Your Lord Husband would help, but why would he do that? What a most unusual thought."  She turned and laughed lightly, before moving in to link her arm through her friends, "Come lets promenade around the room, to see if there is anyone we forgot about to add to our ... dice game.  Do say it shall be at midnight my dear, I would be disapointed if it is anytime else." 

[Nicolette Vauquelin]

Lady Worchester and Nicci

“What have you heard in particular?” Nicci thought to check, “though I am hardly his keeper -  I would comment that the gentleman in question has gentle spirit with a kiss just as sweet, so that I would not be surprised if he discovers any number of options before him in any town he visits.”

Nicci paused, and then added, “But the gentleman carries a burden from his father, and would not wish the difficult times he has faced upon a future generation.  He is no rogue.  Far from it. He is in my mind an impeccable gentleman, a gallant, I would trust him, and have, absolutely.

"Perhaps the gossip is born of a misunderstanding, though more likely, as I think on it, the malicious words were designed to hurt him.” 

“Oh I am pleased to hear that!” She was relieved to Know Arthur was minded, she was awfully fond of him, and Charles.

[Blackguard]

Cadell and Bristol

It embarrassed the intrepid Earl of Bristol to be using a walking stick; but, it was less embarrassing that stumbling in public.  As he began a slow walk back towards the crowd a young man did the very thing that the Earl feared.  He stopped to regard the man.

"War wound son?"  To an adventurer like Digby, he assumed that every affliction would have its source in adventure.

[Blackguard]

Darlene and Elizabeth

Elizabeth could understand that her best friend might not wish a serious talk about eligible gentlemen to be at an open court function.  Such things were best discussed in private.  Yet, the Duchess wanted Darlene to feel better, and she did not want Darlene to use one of those matchmakers that her mother used for her sisters.  Like any good friend, the young duchess thought her own advice would be more important to Darlene, just as Darlene's advice would weigh more importantly with her own problems.  That is what friends were for.

Darlene went on a ramble about knowing, but not meeting the son of the Chancellor, and buying him flowers as she shared an office with him.  And they called Elizabeth the mad duchess?  "Darlene do not pull my leg so," she begged as she had an uncontrollable giggle.  It was like those comedies at the theater.  

"Christopher will help you because I will tell him so," she replied, certain that Darlene would know it to be true.  Her husband avoided her as much as possible but she could get her way when it was important, or so she imagined.

Happy to loop her arm together, she let Darlene lead.  "Shall we call on mother, or did you have other ideas?"

[Louis Killington]

Basildon and the Royal Couple

As the royal eyes pivoted in his direction, the Earl of Basildon gave a low bow to the royal couple.  "Majesties," he greeted them as he rose, "I am sometimes accused in Lords of being long on wind and rhetoric, so let me this day be short-winded and heartfelt in giving Your Majesties the congratulations and sincere wishes for a long and happy life for your royal son and heir.  I regret that my lady wife has been delayed on her arrival at Windsor, but I know that she and our extended family share in the joy you surely feel at this grand moment."  

It was not his intent to hold the royal couple from their progress through the reception.  In fact, he suspectd that they would appreciate brevity and the willingness to stand aside so that they could continue their progress.

[Eleanor Bayning]

Mountjoy and Eleanor departing their Majesties and approaching Lady Mountjoy and party

It was a risk, she knew it was a risk, and one part of her wondered where she'd even found the daring to take it. Almost as soon as the words were out of her mouth, Eleanor was scolding herself internally, feeling certain that she would be in trouble for being cheeky in front of the Royals, and yet... His Majesty laughed. And it didn't seem to be at her, but rather from genuine amusement. Her Majesty even gave her a smile and a nod. Indeed they do. Eleanor's heart lifted as the King described his courtiers as peacocks, revealing that Lord Mountjoy had peacocks of his own. Yet surely, if those who dressed finely were such birds, then whom was the biggest peacock of them all? She allowed a small, slightly relieved smile as the King bid Lord Mountjoy enjoy the rest of the Reception; she recognised a dismissal when she heard one, but it was not one that indicated disapproval. They were simply the first in a no doubt growing queue. 

Yet before they could depart, The Queen herself spoke directly to Eleanor, asking to see her embroidery - at least, that's what she assumed from 'your most recent work' - and asked her to speak to Lady Beverley, whomever that was. Eleanor curtseyed again, automatically, as the best alternative seem to be to fall in a faint. The Queen had spoke to her twice! "Yes, your Majesty." She replied simply. "I would be glad to." Really glad. Shocked and glad. The Queen wanted to see her again, and her work. One part of her was flying high on elation, another was wondering what on earth was going on, and when she would wake up.

It was really all that she could do to trail after Lord Mountjoy as he led them away, fanning herself furiously, her mind a touch dazed so that she jumped when he began to speak, yet his words of approval gave her a warm glow. Fortunately it was proper for a lady to walk at a man's right hand, which meant that her left ear, her good ear, was towards him, and heard his kindly murmured words. "I owe it all to you, Lord Mountjoy." She said after a moment of bringing her thoughts back to reality. "I cannot thank you enough for the introduction, and for your advice on His Majesty's disposition." After all, it had been Charles who had told her that the King was quite approachable. "I... am a little shocked at myself." She admitted quietly, as the enormity of it all started to catch up with her. "Would you give me a moment?" She just wanted to stop walking, to take a few deep breaths so that her heart could stop pounding and the flush that she felt certain suffused her cheeks could fade. 

After a few breaths she felt more collected, as the shock receded and the elation remained. With a smile she nodded to her companion that she was composed and ready to continue, her mind already musing that it seemed there were times to be meek and mild, and times to be otherwise. She'd never seen her parents at court, but her father was an intelligent man, and her mother certainly had a determined streak to her. In that moment she rather wished she had seen them in action. She certainly hoped that both Lord Grey would be pleased. She wasn't certain that anything would please Lady Lucas, but it was nice to think that it might.

Not long after they approached the trio whom Lord Mountjoy had been aiming for and Eleanor got her first look at his lady wife, as well as her two companions. All of them looked very fine! The way her new friend greeted his wife was quite endearing, and yet more evidence that between them lay the kind of affection that one could only hope for in a marriage. He'd already made it clear that his wife was high in the Queen's household, and here she was in the company of a Princess! As she was presented Eleanor curtseyed deeply, gaze downcast, but raising her eyes to first one face and then the other briefly, as she also rose to her feet. "Your Highness, Lady Mountjoy, It is delightful to meet you both." She said with a smile, fan flicking up again as her gaze rested again briefly on Ursula. "Your husband has spoken most highly of you." Her smile deepened a little, dimples showing, as though revealing some secret between ladies. She certainly hoped The Margravina knew well how fond her husband was of her. 

And whom was the third? Lord Mountjoy must not know the man, else he would surely have introduced him in the same effusive manner. No doubt one of the ladies would do the honours. 

 

 

[Douglas FitzJames]

Dundarg approaching Lauderdale

Basildon slotted in with the Royals the instant that Mountjoy and that girl he'd had at his side the last little while had left, and Douglas had missed that window. Well, there would be others. He had spotted one person who was alone however, surprisingly so. As the most powerful man in Scotland, the Duke of Lauderdale was usually accompanied by at least his wife and/or his lacky Murray, but this day he seemed to be alone. He looked... old, maybe even tired. He was old of course, but there was something different. Was it the reality of his own mortality? The man had no heir, he knew. Or was there some other concern on his mind? Catriona hated the man of course, with good reason, but that had all happened before Douglas had come to court, and whilst he had no cause to love the man, he had no cause to hate him either. What he did recognise was that he was powerful in the realm where Douglas himself preferred to operate. 

And so the tall Life Guard approached the aging Duke, bowing deeply and elegantly to him. "Greetin's, Yer Grace." He said politely, cornflower gaze looking over the other man's face. "I wuid hope that the recess haes been pleasant and kind tae ye." He added, thinking that it had been some months since he'd last seen the man, or anyone else at court. He was all too aware that much may have changed in that time. 

[Henry Grey]

Darlene and Elizabeth, with Henry approaching

As the two young ladies strolled around the room, Henry saw Darlene out of the corner of his eye. They had met when Henry had arrived at court in the spring, and had shared a magical moment of make-believe, dancing, and a kiss. Henry had cursed himself for not having had self-control, but he had to admit he had enjoyed the moment. If I were not a Grey, he though, I would have let go of all inhibitions. Fortunately, he had come to his senses. It would not do to have a natural son under his current circumstance. Not if I want to marry well.

Approaching the pair, the Baron greeted Darlene when he was close enough. “Lady Oakham, a pleasure to see you again”, he bowed formally towards both women.

As he straightened, a careless servant bumped into him, spilling the leftover white wine from a glass just received from a courtier. “A thousand pardons, milord!” the servant said, his face paper white. He was likely new, as it was obvious that the man did not know what to do. Should he help the lord clean himself, or should he simply fall silent, bow, and disappear?

“Do not worry, my good fellow. Accidents do happen. Carry on!” Lord Grey said good-naturedly. He then proceeded to take a very fine scarlet kerchief out of a pocket and used it to absorb the liquid from his sleeve. The piece of cloth attracted attention not only because of its vivid colour, but also because it was embroidered with gold thread.

“Please excuse my clumsiness, my ladies”. He then waited to see if Darlene would introduce him to her companion, or if she would dismiss him.

[Sophia de la Cerda]

The Toledos, Caroline, and George

 

 

Of course Esteban wanted her to lie down. If he had his way, she would never leave her bed until she gave birth. Sophia believed she was doing the right thing by following her instincts. She knew when to stay up and when to lie down.

 

“I’ve told you many times that walking calms the baby.” Her entire body shivered, which he could probably both see and feel. “And perhaps I will become so tired that I won't have one of those dreadful nightmares tonight.” Her husband knew that she was plagued by dreams that woke her up screaming. She had told nobody what the dreams were about.

 

To dispel those troubling thoughts and to prevent herself from snapping at Esteban if he said anything else about resting, she turned slightly away from him and looked around the room. Her emotions had been in turmoil throughout her pregnancy, and sometimes she couldn't control them. She laughed for no reason, cried for no reason, and became upset at things that usually wouldn’t bother her at all.  Maybe that would end once the baby was born.

 

At the sound of a familiar voice behind her, she whirled back around, her silver-gold curls bouncing around her shoulders. She smiled at Lord Chichester and her dear friend Lady Kendishall. They looked quite content together.  Maybe theirs would be a happy marriage.

 

Lord Chichester bowed to her and she held up her hand to be kissed. “Thank you, my lord. It’s wonderful to see you both and we wouldn’t miss your wedding for the world.”

 

Sophia grinned at Caroline. “I will send you a note this afternoon and we can arrange to get together and catch up.”

 

[Caroline Despanay]

Caroline, George, and the Toledos 

Just before entering the main room resplendent with seemed to be the vast majority of the English court, George whispered to her that they should pretend they had been inside earlier and now were coming back after leaving for a short interval.  Caroline nodded.

"Certainly, I doubt anyone will have noticed one way or the other. I mean look at this crowd of all the illustrious and famous...some infamous too," she then smiled.

The couple entered with at least at outward confidence, George spotting the Toledos. Caroline was happy to see Sofia, it had been awhile. And there was a major change to her appearance too! Good for her! Well....assuming she wanted it. George went straight up to engage.

After greeting them both he immediately presented Caroline then as was proper. Caroline let both men speak of course. Before she could say anything Sophia was off the mark first and declared she was looking forward to their wedding so very close now.

"Thank you. Greetings Lord Toledo and Lady Toledo," she almost slipped the bonds of tradition and addressed her as Sophia, "So happy to see you both once again."

She also held her hand for the Spanish ambassador to kiss though she would have been fine if he did not. She could not help it, she truly despised the Spanish. However she had to put on her best act for the sake of her old friend, Sophia, and just as vital, her husband to be George.

Sophia let her know she would send a note and perhaps they could visit in a less public venue, which would suit Caroline just fine.

"That would be splendid. I look forward to that," she smiled, keeping her focus on Sophia not her husband.

 

 

[Blackguard]

Toledos and Chichesters

Esteban did not have many friends at court, but George was one of them.  Originally, Juan and Esteban had been interested his George's sister, but she seemed uninterested, preferring to marry an Englishman.

He did not know Caroline well, but knew of her.  The French lady held out her hand and Toledo kissed it in greeting.  "Congratulations to you both."

He gave a broad smile to George.  "It is good to see you again friend."  It was a nice break from his young wife claiming to know better than the doctors about how to handle a pregnancy.

The noise of the courtiers around them was quite loud as there was shouting by courtiers of "God Save the King" "God Save the Queen" and "God save Prince Charles."  This would not be a conducive place to carry on any detailed conversation.

 

OOC~  There is a possible time knot with Caroline and Sophia, so am trying to keep things short between them.