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Post by Laena Pyre on Jul 25, 2019 0:32:59 GMT 1
Balon addressed her last comment first, "Laena my love, if your friends abandon you because of us then they were never really your friends to begin with." He brought his hand up and cupped her cheek, gently running his thumb over her lips before leaning in for a kiss. "Even Ashara told me if I made you happy she'd be happy." A bold statement considering the enmity between the two. "And this is coming from a woman who if I was on fire she wouldn't piss on me to put out the flames."She reluctantly nods. "That sounds like Ashara. Like Aerion, she would always support me, no matter what." From her tone and expression, it's clear she still misses her deeply. Balon chuckled at the memory of Aerion, Balon, Daeron, and Addam watching the royal procession arriving at Highgarden. "He was *very* protective of you when your name came up while we were watching the Princes arrive for the Black Tourney." A small, proud smile. "He is." It turns into a frown. "What did you say to provoke that reaction, though?" Balon suddenly remembered what he said to Aerion after he'd lost their previous jousting match, "Ummmm." Balon scratched his whiskers on his chin, "At a smaller tournament before Whitewalls I had a joust with your brother and he beat me fairly easily. I miiight have said in order to even the score between us I wasssss going to fuck you until your cunny exploded." He braced for an impact of some kind. "I didn't know that statement was going to turn out to be so accurate." The childish part of his mind asked if he has some sort of magical power. If I think it, it will come true. Balon put his theory to the test. Laena will get pregnant from tonight. Balon inadvertently smiled. And now we wait...Laena was almost able to restrain herself, until that smile at the end, like he was *so* proud of himself. Her hand, gently resting on his chest, grabs one of his nipples and twists. She *could* have gone for something more vulnerable, but she wasn't *that* angry, yet. "You said that? In public!? Bragging about having sex with me to appease your wounded ego!? Your occasional crudity may be entertaining in private, but you need to *seriously* wash your mouth out if you don't want to be embarrassing me constantly in public. You're lucky he clearly didn't believe you." He scooted a little closer to her so his member was pressed against her. "What will you tell him about us if he asks you?"A small sigh. "The truth. That you are utterly devoted to me, and worship the very ground I walk upon. That you are, for all your flaws, determined to make me happy. That you've been persistently courting me since day one of the Black Tourney, for all that your friends in your revolution may like you enough to offer alternatives. That you promised to treat Sylvina and Landar as your own - inheritance aside. "That you are probably the best chance I have of a happy marriage." "I want my aunt to grant me her blessing and therefore Lord Jon's. My hope is with her second child on the way she'll feel less compelled to spite me. Convincing her is my goal however..." Balon swallowed. He hated keeping secrets but didn't know if Laena wanted to hear what else he thought. "all options are on the table." His inflection implied he was willing to do whatever it took to get a Blackbriar blessing to the wedding. She pats his chest. "Don't do anything to get yourself into trouble." She casually says, like she'd missed any nefarious implications. "With the passing of Ashara," Balon intertwined his fingers with Laena's, "Your brother and mother are your only links to House Starkwood." Balon quickly added, "I don't include your children as a connection to them." Balon brought her fingers up to his mouth and kissed the tips of each one. "When the war comes I won't spare them and a smart strategist would look to eliminate as many of them as possible before the outbreak of hostilities. And not just to decrease the numbers of enemies on the battlefield but because when this is all over and we've won I still plan to petition the absorption of the Starkwood into Blackbriar lands. Any Starkwoods left can take the wall or the headsman's axe." There was a determination set in his eyes. "They made the mistake of thinking you unnecessary. I did not. Will not. If that means they don't show up for our wedding who cares. It will be full of people. Oakhearts, Peakes, Florents, Tyrells, and a vast array of others." She reaches out her other hand, and flicks her finger at his forehead. "Use that lump of meat between your ears. Your hatred is blinding you. "Firstly, I hope my brother is excepted from your refusal to spare them, even if he ends up on the other side." From her tone, it's less a hope, and more a command. "Secondly, the Starkwoods were, are, and will always be irrelevant. Their military is small, they have the least strategic location in the entire Reach, and they do not have a vast network of powerful allies. The impact they will have on the war is utterly negligible. You just want to pursue them because the lady of the house is half-Rhoynish. If you had even half a brain, your eyes would be focused on the Caswells. There are precisely two places the Rose Road crosses the Mander - one right by Highgarden, and the other at Bitterbridge. Who controls Bitterbridge could play a *critical* role in the outcome of the war. But their skin is nicely pale, so you are blind to them. "Thirdly, depending on how many children a few relatives have had while away from the house, there could easily be over a dozen people between me and inheritance of House Starkwood, most quite a long way away. It's not any crown-loyalist Starkwoods you need to be wary of with that plan - they'll be happily skipped over in the dividing of spoils. It's any fellow revolutionaries who are higher than me in the inheritance. *Those* are the ones who can and quite possibly will stand in your way. "Fourthly, you've already been censured once publicly by Ser Daemon himself. Every act of 'elimination' you do runs the risk of him feeling like you're disrespecting him. You can understand the impact this have on your chances of getting any significant spoils should the revolution succeed? The new King can hardly be seen to significantly reward someone who so openly disrespected him. Not to mention that every act like that, be it linked to you or not, de-legitimises your entire movement, given how one of its key arguments is that the chivalry of knights is important. "Fifthly, if it changes anything, you likely had an easier winning me over today because I was discussing the matter of our relationship with Ser Trystane earlier - you know him: my brother you apparently picked a fight with recently - naturally without naming any names, and he was encouraging me to, in his words 'grab the rest of my life with both hands'. Pretty eloquently, too. Helped me have the courage I needed. Now, I'm sure that some acts some completely unrelated people did before he was born matters far more to you than what he himself did a day or two ago, but I thought I'd mention it. "Point being: forget the Starkwoods. Except maybe any of Lord Ulbert's brother's family or my younger uncle's family who have joined the revolutionaries. They're far away, so I don't know their leanings off-hand." She frowns in thought. "The North, I think, but it's been a while since I gave them any real thought. But point being: aside from them, the Starkwoods are irrelevant. They literally do more good for the crown by their deaths at this stage than by their living. It doesn't matter if you're the greatest fighter and general the revolutionaries have if your prejudice has you focused on irrelevancies and ignoring key strategic targets."
Apropos of nothing, just reminding any readers who may not remember a random short scene from a long time ago, that I actually politely and discreetly hinted at the possibility of marriage with Lord Armond Caswell at the Black Tourney. He politely turned me down, then married some filthy commoner slut in preference to me. I have no idea why I felt that was relevant, but there we go.
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Post by Balon Blackbriar on Jul 25, 2019 7:15:50 GMT 1
A small, proud smile. "He is." It turns into a frown. "What did you say to provoke that reaction, though?" "Like all young knights full of bravado we were talking shit to one another. Ser Addam asked me about the rumors concerning Ser Walton (Wyl) and your brother suggested Walton had heard of my prowess with my sword and gave up women as a result." Balon squinted his eyes as he thought back to how he'd responded that drew Aerion's ire. "Uh, I said something about there being a difference between knowing how to use your sword verses where it should be sheathed. Then I think I immediately brought you up after that and how you saved me from Lord Leo's wrath. He took it to mean I wanted to fuck you. Which of course I did but I wasn't implying it at that time." Mostly."It was my fault. It was so easy talking to you the night before I assumed I could do the same with your brother." Balon's eyes lit up at the a memory, "Do you remember the story I told you that night? About falling down with my pants stuck on the chair and my cock flopping around when those ladies walked in?" Balon started laughing. "We both apologized and moved on. No harm done."
Laena was almost able to restrain herself, until that smile at the end, like he was *so* proud of himself. Her hand, gently resting on his chest, grabs one of his nipples and twists. She *could* have gone for something more vulnerable, but she wasn't *that* angry, yet. "You said that? In public!? Bragging about having sex with me to appease your wounded ego!? Your occasional crudity may be entertaining in private, but you need to *seriously* wash your mouth out if you don't want to be embarrassing me constantly in public. You're lucky he clearly didn't believe you." "EEE Yaaah!" Balon yelped in pain as she twisted his nipple. His explanation was hurried as he wanted to avoid further punishment. "I just said it loud enough for him to hear. How was I supposed to know I'd already bent you over and pounded you into submission?" Balon sucked in his chest trying to get her to let go. "He said a dragon would never lower herself to sleep with me. Or take pity on me. One or the other, can you let go?" Balon took his hand and rubbed his sore nipple, "He told me he'd go have a talk with my sister about my loss to him." He snorted, "The jape's on him because Delia would chew him up and spit him out." A small sigh. "The truth. That you are utterly devoted to me, and worship the very ground I walk upon. That you are, for all your flaws, determined to make me happy. That you've been persistently courting me since day one of the Black Tourney, for all that your friends in your revolution may like you enough to offer alternatives. That you promised to treat Sylvina and Landar as your own - inheritance aside. "That you are probably the best chance I have of a happy marriage." I'm not your slave! was the best defense Balon could muster before he realized he was ready to kill his aunt and uncle if they stood in his way of marrying Laena. "Don't forget to add I'm really good in bed. Brothers love to hear about that." He expected another physical punishment and did his best to guard his nipples, "You know you could add that you love me too." He added sheepishly, "If you're ready to admit that to someone other than me."
She reaches out her other hand, and flicks her finger at his forehead. Snip "Use that lump of meat between your ears. Your hatred is blinding you.
"Firstly, I hope my brother is excepted from your refusal to spare them, even if he ends up on the other side." From her tone, it's less a hope, and more a command.
"Secondly, the Starkwoods were, are, and will always be irrelevant. Their military is small, they have the least strategic location in the entire Reach, and they do not have a vast network of powerful allies. The impact they will have on the war is utterly negligible. You just want to pursue them because the lady of the house is half-Rhoynish. If you had even half a brain, your eyes would be focused on the Caswells. There are precisely two places the Rose Road crosses the Mander - one right by Highgarden, and the other at Bitterbridge. Who controls Bitterbridge could play a *critical* role in the outcome of the war. But their skin is nicely pale, so you are blind to them.
"Thirdly, depending on how many children a few relatives have had while away from the house, there could easily be over a dozen people between me and inheritance of House Starkwood, most quite a long way away. It's not any crown-loyalist Starkwoods you need to be wary of with that plan - they'll be happily skipped over in the dividing of spoils. It's any fellow revolutionaries who are higher than me in the inheritance. *Those* are the ones who can and quite possibly will stand in your way.
"Fourthly, you've already been censured once publicly by Ser Daemon himself. Every act of 'elimination' you do runs the risk of him feeling like you're disrespecting him. You can understand the impact this have on your chances of getting any significant spoils should the revolution succeed? The new King can hardly be seen to significantly reward someone who so openly disrespected him. Not to mention that every act like that, be it linked to you or not, de-legitimises your entire movement, given how one of its key arguments is that the chivalry of knights is important.
"Fifthly, if it changes anything, you likely had an easier winning me over today because I was discussing the matter of our relationship with Ser Trystane earlier - you know him: my brother you apparently picked a fight with recently - naturally without naming any names, and he was encouraging me to, in his words 'grab the rest of my life with both hands'. Pretty eloquently, too. Helped me have the courage I needed. Now, I'm sure that some acts some completely unrelated people did before he was born matters far more to you than what he himself did a day or two ago, but I thought I'd mention it.
"Point being: forget the Starkwoods. Except maybe any of Lord Ulbert's brother's family or my younger uncle's family who have joined the revolutionaries. They're far away, so I don't know their leanings off-hand." She frowns in thought. "The North, I think, but it's been a while since I gave them any real thought. But point being: aside from them, the Starkwoods are irrelevant. They literally do more good for the crown by their deaths at this stage than by their living. It doesn't matter if you're the greatest fighter and general the revolutionaries have if your prejudice has you focused on irrelevancies and ignoring key strategic targets." "Of course your brother is exempt. Why wouldn't he be?" His tone suggested it was a foolish thought to think he'd see him executed or banished to the Wall. "My hatred isn't blinding me." he said defensively. He was about to say Symon was the last remaining half-breed but knew what a colossal mistake that would've been. "I'm trying to think long term. The Starkwoods are irrelevant and their heir is shaping up to be a blackguard. The more that are removed now, the fewer can oppose any claim we could lay on their lands after the war. And I know the Starkwood is dreary and sparsely populated but homes will need to be rebuilt. Pallisades, keeps, equipment. All of it needs wood, something we could provide to the Reach. The fact that it's obscure means it'll have a better chance at surviving the war. It could provide shelter. Shelter to refugees looking to start anew." "Maybe I'm crazy but this war could kickstart the development of the Starkwood. It's one of the largest domains in the Reach. Add it to Gyldenhaal and with a steady guiding hand our grandchildren could be near principal bannerman status. Does that not excite you?" Balon's delusion of grandeur was impressive but he clearly had a vision of what he wanted. "Just think, holding a grand feast with the victorious lords. Having a great hunt in the woods. A joust. A melee. You on a dais looking down at all the runty cunts who didn't give you a second thought. You're strong, strapping young sons beating the piss out of theirs in the squire's tourney.""As for the Caswells, they haven't escaped my thoughts. Lord Armond is my aunt's brother. His children are very young. The house is in serious debt. Worse yet he married a filthy commoner because her father shits gold. Pathetic." What Balon didn't mention was a Peake killed Armond's cousin and Bittersteel almost killed his best sworn sword in the Highgarden melee. "That house is one accident away from a child-lord." Laena could see the ideas forming in Balon's mind. "Luckily Cider Hall is close to Bitterbridge and as much as it disgusts me to say this, Longtable too. I wouldn't put it past Lord Eldon to support whichever side is in closest proximity."
As he listened to Laena talk about Blackfyre and the "cause" he looked for excuses to justify his thoughts. "Ser Daemon dueled me because of my slander towards Ser Jasper and others. I've learned if I'm going to go after someone it needs to be in a legal way and I need to keep my mouth shut before hand. No killing after a yield in the melee. No aiming for the head in a joust." Daemon was a great man but Balon knew he'd delegate the divvying of spoils to his council. "As for the spoils, Ser Daemon isn't going to waste his time on lesser titles. That will be delegated to men like Lord Gormon."When Trystane's name came up the color drained from Balon's face. Just for helping me decide my RP answer: Mending Fences, Trystane, Prejudice (Dornish): 4d6k3 7"Easy for him to say that when he doesn't know who the object of your affection is. Lets see what he has to say when he finds out it's me." Balon paused, "Wait, why were you two even talking about your romantic life? Is he trying to court you?" Balon suddenly became very agitated, "If he is you need to tell me right now. I'll, I'll gut that piece of..." he stopped mid sentence as a million horrible scenarios played through Balon's mind. Jealousy thy name is Balon. He looked up, feeling stupid, "I just couldn't get the thought of him trying to seduce you out of my head." Balon closed his eyes and took a calming breath, "I'm happy," Balon had trouble getting the word out, "that he gave you the courage for today." But that doesn't change the fact I'm going to fucking destroy him in the melee. He is not allowed near my Laena! Balon tried changing the subject away from Trystane, "I'm not ignoring strategic targets. Blackwoods and Brackens. The regency of House Hightower. The remaining undecided bannermen in the Reach. I've thought about all of it."
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Post by Laena Pyre on Jul 26, 2019 0:09:30 GMT 1
"It was my fault. It was so easy talking to you the night before I assumed I could do the same with your brother." Balon's eyes lit up at the a memory, "Do you remember the story I told you that night? About falling down with my pants stuck on the chair and my cock flopping around when those ladies walked in?" Balon started laughing. "We both apologized and moved on. No harm done." "You mostly can. But just as I am ... jumpy towards negative comments about my brother, so too is he to me. From a young age, we only really had each other to look out for us, and we are both ever-vigilant in our duties, even now." "EEE Yaaah!" Balon yelped in pain as she twisted his nipple. His explanation was hurried as he wanted to avoid further punishment. "I just said it loud enough for him to hear. How was I supposed to know I'd already bent you over and pounded you into submission?" Balon sucked in his chest trying to get her to let go. "He said a dragon would never lower herself to sleep with me. Or take pity on me. One or the other, can you let go?" She releases him, stroking the affected area soothingly after, face contemplative at her brother's words. I'm not your slave! was the best defense Balon could muster before he realized he was ready to kill his aunt and uncle if they stood in his way of marrying Laena. "Don't forget to add I'm really good in bed. Brothers love to hear about that." He expected another physical punishment and did his best to guard his nipples, "You know you could add that you love me too." He added sheepishly, "If you're ready to admit that to someone other than me." She simply gives him a level look, rather than hurting him again. "Sometimes I feel like you must enjoy getting hurt, the things you say." She gives a small sigh. "If he asks for more details, I'll answer." But he doesn't even think you deserve a pity-fuck, so I'd rather not disappoint him too much all at once."My hatred isn't blinding me." he said defensively. He was about to say Symon was the last remaining half-breed but knew what a colossal mistake that would've been. "I'm trying to think long term. The Starkwoods are irrelevant and their heir is shaping up to be a blackguard. The more that are removed now, the fewer can oppose any claim we could lay on their lands after the war. And I know the Starkwood is dreary and sparsely populated but homes will need to be rebuilt. Pallisades, keeps, equipment. All of it needs wood, something we could provide to the Reach. The fact that it's obscure means it'll have a better chance at surviving the war. It could provide shelter. Shelter to refugees looking to start anew." She puts a finger to his lips. "Firstly, you are in no position to be accusing anyone else of 'shaping up to be a blackguard'. Secondly, if the Starkwoods are on the losing side, their opposition will be meaningless. "Understand, House Starkwood is still my foundation, containing people I can turn to in times of need. I am halfway across a bridge at the moment. I need to be *firmly*, irrevocably established on the opposite side of the bridge before knocking down the starting side is not an unmitigated disaster for me. I've lost everything once before, and I only survived because of that safe harbour. I do *not* want to lose everything again, but I especially do not want to do with my harbour run by a man who I barely know, and who barely knows me, and who may not honour the bonds of distant kinship we share." "Maybe I'm crazy but this war could kickstart the development of the Starkwood. It's one of the largest domains in the Reach. Add it to Gyldenhaal and with a steady guiding hand our grandchildren could be near principal bannerman status. Does that not excite you?" Balon's delusion of grandeur was impressive but he clearly had a vision of what he wanted. "Just think, holding a grand feast with the victorious lords. Having a great hunt in the woods. A joust. A melee. You on a dais looking down at all the runty cunts who didn't give you a second thought. You're strong, strapping young sons beating the piss out of theirs in the squire's tourney." "You want Starkwood lands to prosper for when we take them over? You *do* understand that Lord Ulbert is a very competent ruler of his lands? A very steady, firm hand keeping them steadily improving. And you want to thrust your sword into those well-running gears and jiggle it about. You understand that one year of mismanagement can cause damage that could easily take over a decade to recover from? And how many years do you think we are from the end of the war? You do this plan, and our grandchildren *may* - may! - be able to claw the house back to the state it is in *now*." She locks eyes with him, her gaze unyielding. "I am telling you now, as clear as I can, that from both a strategic and a personal perspective, going after the Starkwoods before the war begins is a mistake." Her voice is cold and firm. "I cannot tell you what to do. That is for every man to decide for himself. But what I will tell you is that if you go against me in this, if you decide you love hate more than you love me, there will be serious consequences. I don't want to hear excuses, arguments, or distractions. When I take my finger away, all I want to hear from you is 'yes', or 'no' as to if you agree. Say 'yes', and I stay, and we will figure out a way forward together. Say 'no', and I will gather up my clothes, leave, and you will be stranger to me from here on in." She continues to hold his gaze and a finger on his mouth for a few moments more, to forestall a knee-jerk response, letting him think first, before she finally removes her finger. "As for the Caswells, they haven't escaped my thoughts. Lord Armond is my aunt's brother. His children are very young. The house is in serious debt. Worse yet he married a filthy commoner because her father shits gold. Pathetic." What Balon didn't mention was a Peake killed Armond's cousin and Bittersteel almost killed his best sworn sword in the Highgarden melee. "That house is one accident away from a child-lord." Laena could see the ideas forming in Balon's mind. "Luckily Cider Hall is close to Bitterbridge and as much as it disgusts me to say this, Longtable too. I wouldn't put it past Lord Eldon to support whichever side is in closest proximity." "Then it sounds like an area important enough to deserve your full attention." As he listened to Laena talk about Blackfyre and the "cause" he looked for excuses to justify his thoughts. "Ser Daemon dueled me because of my slander towards Ser Jasper and others. I've learned if I'm going to go after someone it needs to be in a legal way and I need to keep my mouth shut before hand. No killing after a yield in the melee. No aiming for the head in a joust." She nods firmly. "Good. Keep an eye on opportunities to actually *improve* your reputation, as well. Especially if people can't point to a political motive. One of my key arguments to sell this to people will be that I am a good, positive influence on you." Daemon was a great man but Balon knew he'd delegate the divvying of spoils to his council. "As for the spoils, Ser Daemon isn't going to waste his time on lesser titles. That will be delegated to men like Lord Gormon.""*Unless* you have irritated then-King Daemon enough that he decides to step in in your case. I will not be denied our due due to carelessness." When Trystane's name came up the color drained from Balon's face. "Easy for him to say that when he doesn't know who the object of your affection is. Lets see what he has to say when he finds out it's me." Balon paused, "Wait, why were you two even talking about your romantic life? Is he trying to court you?" Balon suddenly became very agitated, "If he is you need to tell me right now. I'll, I'll gut that piece of..." he stopped mid sentence as a million horrible scenarios played through Balon's mind. Laena gives him an irritated look, and flicks his forehead again. "*Think*, then talk. We were talking about it because he's my brother, yet he's not going to go super-protective of me like Aerion would. And the person who I would usually speak to about these things was *brutally murdered recently*!" She takes a calming breath. "I do not have many people I can turn to in that circumstance." He looked up, feeling stupid, "I just couldn't get the thought of him trying to seduce you out of my head." Balon closed his eyes and took a calming breath, "I'm happy," Balon had trouble getting the word out, "that he gave you the courage for today." But that doesn't change the fact I'm going to fucking destroy him in the melee. He is not allowed near my Laena!Laena snorts derisively at that suggestion. "Trystane? I've not got a hint he sees me as anything other than a sister. And I'd only instigate something if I suddenly felt like I wanted him dead for some reason. Honestly, it's lucky he's around. If he weren't, I'd have to cast a wider net, and who knows what lascivious desires that alternative would have?" Balon tried changing the subject away from Trystane, "I'm not ignoring strategic targets. Blackwoods and Brackens. The regency of House Hightower. The remaining undecided bannermen in the Reach. I've thought about all of it."She raises a querying eyebrow. "Really? Tell me your thoughts about the Hightowers, then. Last we spoke, weren't you even unsure as to which possible-regent supported which faction? Surely that makes planning anything rather difficult? After all 'make sure the eventual regent is a revolutionary' is more of a passing intent than a real *thought*."
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Post by Balon Blackbriar on Jul 26, 2019 22:53:05 GMT 1
"You mostly can. But just as I am ... jumpy towards negative comments about my brother, so too is he to me. From a young age, we only really had each other to look out for us, and we are both ever-vigilant in our duties, even now." "I wouldn't really say my comments were negative," he traced a finger around her body to emphasize his point, "but they weren't appropriate for the setting and individual involved." Balon thought about his brothers and sister, "It's nice to have siblings that watch out for you. I thought I was losing Titus at Highgarden but we're closer than ever now. You may not be his blood but I hope he'll extend the same kind of vigilance to you as he does to me."
She releases him, stroking the affected area soothingly after, face contemplative at her brother's words. She simply gives him a level look, rather than hurting him again. "Sometimes I feel like you must enjoy getting hurt, the things you say." She gives a small sigh. "If he asks for more details, I'll answer." But he doesn't even think you deserve a pity-fuck, so I'd rather not disappoint him too much all at once.Balon closed his eyes and let out a quiet moan of appreciation as she stroked him. "Considering how much I enjoyed you digging your nails into my back maybe I do." retorted Balon as he purposefully avoided a real answer. "With the right person honesty is always best. Mostly." His mind wandered to some of the things they'd done together. Aerion does *not* want to know about that. Balon thought to Preston bragging about Delia's bedroom tricks and wanted no part in hearing those tales. She puts a finger to his lips. "Firstly, you are in no position to be accusing anyone else of 'shaping up to be a blackguard'. Secondly, if the Starkwoods are on the losing side, their opposition will be meaningless. "Understand, House Starkwood is still my foundation, containing people I can turn to in times of need. I am halfway across a bridge at the moment. I need to be *firmly*, irrevocably established on the opposite side of the bridge before knocking down the starting side is not an unmitigated disaster for me. I've lost everything once before, and I only survived because of that safe harbour. I do *not* want to lose everything again, but I especially do not want to do with my harbour run by a man who I barely know, and who barely knows me, and who may not honour the bonds of distant kinship we share." "You want Starkwood lands to prosper for when we take them over? You *do* understand that Lord Ulbert is a very competent ruler of his lands? A very steady, firm hand keeping them steadily improving. And you want to thrust your sword into those well-running gears and jiggle it about. You understand that one year of mismanagement can cause damage that could easily take over a decade to recover from? And how many years do you think we are from the end of the war? You do this plan, and our grandchildren *may* - may! - be able to claw the house back to the state it is in *now*." She locks eyes with him, her gaze unyielding. "I am telling you now, as clear as I can, that from both a strategic and a personal perspective, going after the Starkwoods before the war begins is a mistake." Her voice is cold and firm. "I cannot tell you what to do. That is for every man to decide for himself. But what I will tell you is that if you go against me in this, if you decide you love hate more than you love me, there will be serious consequences. I don't want to hear excuses, arguments, or distractions. When I take my finger away, all I want to hear from you is 'yes', or 'no' as to if you agree. Say 'yes', and I stay, and we will figure out a way forward together. Say 'no', and I will gather up my clothes, leave, and you will be stranger to me from here on in." She continues to hold his gaze and a finger on his mouth for a few moments more, to forestall a knee-jerk response, letting him think first, before she finally removes her finger. As she spoke he started to prepare his responses. Symon has killed two knights and allegedly raped Alicent Florent. It's easy to be a competent ruler when no one lives in your dreary forest. She didn't seem to mind him sticking his sword in her and wiggling it all about. All of that stopped when she gave him her ultimatum. He stared at Laena, faced with the stark reality of choosing her or continuing his petty war with the Starkwoods. Killing them all had it's appeal but not compared to losing her. She wasn't just a woman to fuck. Something to unload in until a younger, prettier version of her came along. She was special. He knew it. She knew it. "Yes."
"I will focus on more important supporters of the King like the Caswells. But please keep in mind I need to maintain appearances with certain powerful lords. I won't kill Starkwoods in the melee or accidentally put a lance through one's visor in a joust but I will fight them and defeat them. Is that ok?"
Balon wondered what she'd allow once she was Lady Blackbriar of Gyldenhaal. She nods firmly. "Good. Keep an eye on opportunities to actually *improve* your reputation, as well. Especially if people can't point to a political motive. One of my key arguments to sell this to people will be that I am a good, positive influence on you." "*Unless* you have irritated then-King Daemon enough that he decides to step in in your case. I will not be denied our due due to carelessness." "I've done well in the Tactician's Tourney and will lead one side in the final battle. That's a good start. Maybe I'll hear some words of encouragement from a lovely, virtuously lady in the audience."
Our due... Balon smiled at the choice of words. Laena gives him an irritated look, and flicks his forehead again. "*Think*, then talk. We were talking about it because he's my brother, yet he's not going to go super-protective of me like Aerion would. And the person who I would usually speak to about these things was *brutally murdered recently*!" She takes a calming breath. "I do not have many people I can turn to in that circumstance." Laena snorts derisively at that suggestion. "Trystane? I've not got a hint he sees me as anything other than a sister. And I'd only instigate something if I suddenly felt like I wanted him dead for some reason. Honestly, it's lucky he's around. If he weren't, I'd have to cast a wider net, and who knows what lascivious desires that alternative would have?" Balon was annoyed when she flicked him again. He didn't want Laena talking to Trystane or Ashara (if she'd been alive) about him unless it was to brag about how big his cock was and how much she loved it. When she talked of instigating something with Trystane he quickly rolled up and was hovering over her, putting his knees in between her legs. "Don't ever say that. I don't care if it's in jest or not." Balon was rather large compared to Laena and was using his bulk to reinforce his point. This wasn't prejudice, it was jealousy. She raises a querying eyebrow. "Really? Tell me your thoughts about the Hightowers, then. Last we spoke, weren't you even unsure as to which possible-regent supported which faction? Surely that makes planning anything rather difficult? After all 'make sure the eventual regent is a revolutionary' is more of a passing intent than a real *thought*." Balon sighed, "I have no new news about them. I planned to focus on them when I returned to the Reach. Have you heard anything?" I know it's a little bit weird hovering over you then talking about the Hightowers but that's PbP sometimes.
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Post by Laena Pyre on Jul 27, 2019 2:22:46 GMT 1
Balon thought about his brothers and sister, "It's nice to have siblings that watch out for you. I thought I was losing Titus at Highgarden but we're closer than ever now. You may not be his blood but I hope he'll extend the same kind of vigilance to you as he does to me."Laena, having long forgotten the words she said to Titus to get him out of bed, and dismissed any lingering rancour they may have caused, shrugs casually. "Maybe. We've only spoken a couple of times. 'Expect nothing from the future, and all your surprises will be pleasant ones'." As she spoke he started to prepare his responses. Symon has killed two knights and allegedly raped Alicent Florent. It's easy to be a competent ruler when no one lives in your dreary forest. She didn't seem to mind him sticking his sword in her and wiggling it all about. All of that stopped when she gave him her ultimatum. He stared at Laena, faced with the stark reality of choosing her or continuing his petty war with the Starkwoods. Killing them all had it's appeal but not compared to losing her. She wasn't just a woman to fuck. Something to unload in until a younger, prettier version of her came along. She was special. He knew it. She knew it. "Yes."
"I will focus on more important supporters of the King like the Caswells. But please keep in mind I need to maintain appearances with certain powerful lords. I won't kill Starkwoods in the melee or accidentally put a lance through one's visor in a joust but I will fight them and defeat them. Is that ok?"When he gave his one-word answer, Laena smiled. Finally. Before verbally responding, she gives him a quick teasing peck on the lips. "Knights will be knights. So long as there's no deaths or maimings, prove your martial superiority as much as you like. Just make sure any knights you're with do the same. I will *not* be amused if you stand idly by while, say, Ser Otho violates your word for you." Her grin turns wicked, and without warning, she pounces atop him, knocking him from his side onto his back. "Now, let me show you one of the rewards obedience gets you. Lay still." And she kisses his neck, before slowly and steadily moving down his body. "I told you before that I have taken tutelage in an area not typical of a lady's eduction, from some of the best in the land. You've enjoyed some fruits of that, but for right now, you don't need to do a thing." Her face moves over his cock, teasing, but doing nothing more for the moment than breathing on it as she passes, moving on to kissing sensitive spots on his thighs. "Just lie back and enjoy a woman of royal blood focusing her *entire* attention on your pleasure." Finishing with his thighs, she finally moves back up to his twitching cock, and slowly, teasingly, goes to work. Not frantic fucking, but slow, passionate, drawn-out pleasure, slapping aside any attempt by his hands to interfere, resulting in a significant lull in the conversation. A lady didn't talk with her mouth full, after all. "I've done well in the Tactician's Tourney and will lead one side in the final battle. That's a good start. Maybe I'll hear some words of encouragement from a lovely, virtuous lady in the audience."
She gives a smirk. "I'll encourage Lady Sybelle Oakheart to speak up." She teases. "A certain other lady - perhaps not quite so virtuous, but a lot more fun in bed - already cheered you on at the Tactician's Tourney. Her voice is probably a bit worn out by now." Balon was annoyed when she flicked him again. He didn't want Laena talking to Trystane or Ashara (if she'd been alive) about him unless it was to brag about how big his cock was and how much she loved it. When she talked of instigating something with Trystane he quickly rolled up and was hovering over her, putting his knees in between her legs. "Don't ever say that. I don't care if it's in jest or not." Balon was rather large compared to Laena and was using his bulk to reinforce his point. This wasn't prejudice, it was jealousy. Laena carefully reaches up, and strokes his cheek. "This body is yours." She says softly. "This heart is yours. Yours and yours alone. I may joke and tease, but that is truth. It is a little battered and broken, a bit skittish, and maybe a bit darker than the norm, but all of it - its majesty and iniquity, its blood and glory - is all yours. And the only man who can take it from you is you." Balon sighed, "I have no new news about them. I planned to focus on them when I returned to the Reach. Have you heard anything?" She gives a small smile. "Well, I heard a rumour - not confirmed yet, but I'd say it's *fairly* reliable - that Ser Abelar was in a position where he could be swayed to either side. And I had a thought that *maybe* Lady Daena Flowers could make a good match for him, without significantly increasing his chances of being assassinated. The sister of Lord Marq Durwell would be a political master, compensating for his weakness, and - if your faction were the one to arrange the match between his sister and the mighty House Hightower - you could get *both* houses into your camp in a single stroke. Lord Marq is clearly looking for the side that will give him the biggest advantage, and what could be bigger than to tie his house with House Hightower? And with his sister whispering in the Hightower regent's ear, you can be sure that House Hightower will follow suit." She shrugs. "There's a lot of agendas involved, I'm not sure how willing any of the parties involved would be, but it's a plan to be getting on with, at least. What do you think?" I know it's a little bit weird hovering over you then talking about the Hightowers but that's PbP sometimes. [Yeah, I figure that one 'post' doesn't contain one contiguous moment of time, rather each narrative 'thread' within those posts happens each in turn, and we handle multiple 'threads' simultaneously, for purposes of actually getting conversations done in a reasonable OOC timeframe. It's all timey-wimey stuff.]
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Post by Balon Blackbriar on Jul 29, 2019 7:22:57 GMT 1
When he gave his one-word answer, Laena smiled. Finally. Before verbally responding, she gives him a quick teasing peck on the lips. "Knights will be knights. So long as there's no deaths or maimings, prove your martial superiority as much as you like. Just make sure any knights you're with do the same. I will *not* be amused if you stand idly by while, say, Ser Otho violates your word for you." Her grin turns wicked, and without warning, she pounces atop him, knocking him from his side onto his back. "Now, let me show you one of the rewards obedience gets you. Lay still." And she kisses his neck, before slowly and steadily moving down his body. "I told you before that I have taken tutelage in an area not typical of a lady's education, from some of the best in the land. You've enjoyed some fruits of that, but for right now, you don't need to do a thing." Her face moves over his cock, teasing, but doing nothing more for the moment than breathing on it as she passes, moving on to kissing sensitive spots on his thighs. "Just lie back and enjoy a woman of royal blood focusing her *entire* attention on your pleasure." Finishing with his thighs, she finally moves back up to his twitching cock, and slowly, teasingly, goes to work. Not frantic fucking, but slow, passionate, drawn-out pleasure, slapping aside any attempt by his hands to interfere, resulting in a significant lull in the conversation. Balon was about to protest his ability to control knights like Ser Otho when Laena pounced on top of him. As she made her way down his body Balon's mind started asking questions. Who were the people you learned from? When did you learn these skills? What did you hope to accomplish with these new found abilities? Did you have to practice? However when she went to work all of his critical thinking skills shut down. His head lolled back as he experienced a level of ecstasy most knights only ever dreamed of. With Laena not allowing him to use his hands all he could do was grip the linens and hold on as she took him to completion. When she was done he looked down at her, his mind fogged with lust and satisfaction, and barely uttered, "Fuck me." She gives a smirk. "I'll encourage Lady Sybelle Oakheart to speak up." She teases. "A certain other lady - perhaps not quite so virtuous, but a lot more fun in bed - already cheered you on at the Tactician's Tourney. Her voice is probably a bit worn out by now." He smiled as she teased him and he teased right back, "Perhaps Lady Lyanna Florent and Lady Lyanna Levalle could join Sybelle and form a cheering section. I have quite the following you know." Balon pursed his lips as he stifled a laugh. He'd been jealous when she'd mentioned other men and turnabout was fair play. After letting the joke hang for a moment he added, "Of course the lady that matters most to me has already shown her approval. I could understand if her voice was worn out, it'd match the rest of her." Balon let out a content sigh, "In all seriousness I hope you know that I appreciate everything you've done for me. And I'm not talking about just fucking my brains out. I mean everything from helping me design my personal sigil, to my good luck charm, to the hug and comforting words you gave me after my father's death." He put her into a close embrace, "I don't know what I've done to earn the Seven's blessing but praise be to they who are one."Laena carefully reaches up, and strokes his cheek. "This body is yours." She says softly. "This heart is yours. Yours and yours alone. I may joke and tease, but that is truth. It is a little battered and broken, a bit skittish, and maybe a bit darker than the norm, but all of it - its majesty and iniquity, its blood and glory - is all yours. And the only man who can take it from you is you." He leaned his face into her hand as she stroked his cheek, closing his eyes and feeling the softness of her fingers. "Your heart is the greatest gift I can ask for." With a smirk he repeated one of her phrases, " Just don't be boring." He brought his hands down to her inner thighs and spread her legs far apart, recreating how he'd found her in his bed several days ago, "I may frustrate you. I may anger you. Hell, you'll want to wring my neck from time to time." He took one hand and guided himself into her, "But I'll take your broken wings and see you soar again."Apologies to Mr. Mister and that butchered lyric reference. She gives a small smile. "Well, I heard a rumour - not confirmed yet, but I'd say it's *fairly* reliable - that Ser Abelar was in a position where he could be swayed to either side. And I had a thought that *maybe* Lady Daena Flowers could make a good match for him, without significantly increasing his chances of being assassinated. The sister of Lord Marq Durwell would be a political master, compensating for his weakness, and - if your faction were the one to arrange the match between his sister and the mighty House Hightower - you could get *both* houses into your camp in a single stroke. Lord Marq is clearly looking for the side that will give him the biggest advantage, and what could be bigger than to tie his house with House Hightower? And with his sister whispering in the Hightower regent's ear, you can be sure that House Hightower will follow suit." She shrugs. "There's a lot of agendas involved, I'm not sure how willing any of the parties involved would be, but it's a plan to be getting on with, at least. What do you think?" The hour was growing late and once again Laena had physically exhausted him but he perked up at the rumor. "So Ser Abelar is pliable..." Balon noted the information for future use. When she mentioned Lord Marq Balon's nose wrinkled in distaste. "By all accounts Lord Marq is a master schemer and politician and I have no doubt his natural sister is too. But while that's good for Ser Abelar it might be bad for us." Laena could tell 'us' meant Blackfyre supporters. "Don't get me wrong if I was a member of House Hightower I'd approve of the match. She would undoubtedly help Ser Abelar navigate through these difficult times. However, my understanding of Lord Marq is he does what's best for Lord Marq, not Fire or Blood. How do we know Lady Daena would be any different? Instead of committing the vast levies and wealth of Oldtown to Ser Daemon what if she convinces Ser Abelar to do the politically prudent thing and support both sides. Or worse yet sit out all together? What exactly is our faction facilitating; a marriage of his beloved sister to a regent. But when the regency ends what then? What's the long term benefit of marrying Lady Daena to Ser Abelar that convinces Lord Marq to join us in the war? If he wants the biggest advantage why not marry Lord Leo's daughter? If you believe the rumors she's desperately in love with him." Balon tried playing out various scenarios in his head but the long day and longer evening wasn't helping him come up with quality solutions. "Why not find a lady that is already of a house that supports Ser Daemon *and* cunning? My cousin Tanda for example." When the conversation about the Hightowers concluded Balon took his arm and brought her into a hug, her head resting on his chest. There was something he needed to say but knew it'd be awkward. "Laena, I have something I need to ask. Something that's awkward and a little uncomfortable but I want us to be honest with one another." He paused as he thought on how to phrase his words without upsetting her. "I associate with people you might not like. Some are ardent anti Dornish. Some might have compromising morality. Some have probably offended you or those close to you in some way. I'm not asking you to like them. True I might ask for your help assisting them and would understand if you refused. I want to know if it's going to be a problem." He took a deep breath, "The Cordwayners for example." For now he chose not to mention people like Ser Jonothor, Ser Eoric, or his cousin Lynesse.
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Post by Laena Pyre on Jul 29, 2019 23:51:49 GMT 1
[Note: at least one of Balon's questions was answered here] When she was done he looked down at her, his mind fogged with lust and satisfaction, and barely uttered, "Fuck me."Before raising her head, Laena discreetly wipes the reflexive tears from her cheeks, from when she pushed herself just a little too far. As she was doing that, she discreetly swallowed over and over again to get the taste out of her mouth without her expression displaying her distaste. Definitely 'good behaviour only', that. Urgh. Finally sitting up, her hands already getting him ready for the next round, she looks down at him imperiously and answers. "No. "We have fucked. But you have also fucked She Who Will Not Be Named, that Ghost slut from the Bridges' orgy, and who knows how many other whores. In those terms, I am nothing special. "What I *will* do? That is something I've been looking forward to for a long time. Something unique between the two of us." She straddles his waist, the exciting perversity of taking the man's position thrilling her, body and mind. Locking eyes, she slowly begins teasing him again. "Follow my lead. This is not 'fucking'. This is 'making love'." And she begins again. Slow, tender, intimate. Not a mutual selfish grasp for pleasure, but two bodies, eyes locked, expressing their honest feelings for each other. He smiled as she teased him and he teased right back, "Perhaps Lady Lyanna Florent and Lady Lyanna Levalle could join Sybelle and form a cheering section. I have quite the following you know." Balon pursed his lips as he stifled a laugh. He'd been jealous when she'd mentioned other men and turnabout was fair play. After letting the joke hang for a moment he added, "Of course the lady that matters most to me has already shown her approval. I could understand if her voice was worn out, it'd match the rest of her." Balon let out a content sigh, "In all seriousness I hope you know that I appreciate everything you've done for me. And I'm not talking about just fucking my brains out. I mean everything from helping me design my personal sigil, to my good luck charm, to the hug and comforting words you gave me after my father's death." He put her into a close embrace, "I don't know what I've done to earn the Seven's blessing but praise be to they who are one."Laena merely rolls her eyes at his attempt to make her jealous. If there was any doubt that he was entirely hers, it ended when he agreed to leave the Starkwoods alone. If they *did* really want him, they were just shit out of luck. She leans into his embrace, focusing on controlling her breathing to extend the moment as long as possible. "I cannot speak for the Seven, but for me, you were there when I needed you - well, mostly" thinking of the aftermath of Ashara's murder. "As much as you could be. Telling me over and over that society was wrong when it said my life was already over, since I had had sex before. That my mother was wrong when she said that people would only ever love my veneer, not my true self. "That I was *needed*." She gives a brief, tender kiss to his cheek. "Enjoy your reward." The hour was growing late and once again Laena had physically exhausted him but he perked up at the rumor. "So Ser Abelar is pliable..." Balon noted the information for future use. When she mentioned Lord Marq Balon's nose wrinkled in distaste. "By all accounts Lord Marq is a master schemer and politician and I have no doubt his natural sister is too. But while that's good for Ser Abelar it might be bad for us." Laena could tell 'us' meant Blackfyre supporters. "Don't get me wrong if I was a member of House Hightower I'd approve of the match. She would undoubtedly help Ser Abelar navigate through these difficult times. However, my understanding of Lord Marq is he does what's best for Lord Marq, not Fire or Blood. How do we know Lady Daena would be any different? Instead of committing the vast levies and wealth of Oldtown to Ser Daemon what if she convinces Ser Abelar to do the politically prudent thing and support both sides. Or worse yet sit out all together? What exactly is our faction facilitating; a marriage of his beloved sister to a regent. But when the regency ends what then? What's the long term benefit of marrying Lady Daena to Ser Abelar that convinces Lord Marq to join us in the war? If he wants the biggest advantage why not marry Lord Leo's daughter? If you believe the rumors she's desperately in love with him." Balon tried playing out various scenarios in his head but the long day and longer evening wasn't helping him come up with quality solutions. "Why not find a lady that is already of a house that supports Ser Daemon *and* cunning? My cousin Tanda for example.""Because that's liable to cause him to wind up dead. There are four possible regents. Sooner or later, the knives will come out. Marrying to indicate a hard-line position means they are nothing but an obstacle to the other side. So long as a possible regent seems swayable, they're reasonably safe. Plus, either side would be reluctant to kill Lord Marq's goodbrother, and almost guarantee House Durwell support their opponents, helping to safeguard our candidate. "As for why Lord Marq wouldn't marry Lady Amerei, have you *met* her? She's got a pretty face, but her personality is *terrible*. Selfish, immature, and petty. She'll do fine as a baby producer, but I'm pretty sure Lord Marq wishes for someone to understand his art, maybe even assist with it. "The long-term benefit to marrying Ser Abelar comes should misfortune befall the child lord. Unless I'm much mistaken, Ser Abelar is next in line. That would end the entire 'regency' question once and for all. It would hardly be the first time a child lord with an uncle as their regent took a winter chill. In summer. "You are quite correct to question Lord Marq's loyalty. It *is* a risk, certainly. But, contradictory as it sounds, if it weren't a risk, it would be doomed to fail. You and whoever from your faction you choose to help you *will* have to convince Lord Marq that the deal is worth his loyalty." She shrugs. "If you can't, then obviously don't proceed with the plan. But his sister and Ser Abelar should be happy together, and compliment each other well. With everyone happy with the end result, to betray those who made it happen would be ... politically unwise. Plus, as I understand it, the majority of Hightower's banners lean towards the revolutionaries, and a new lord or regent would be wise to not upset their vassals, which Lady Daena would well know." When the conversation about the Hightowers concluded Balon took his arm and brought her into a hug, her head resting on his chest. There was something he needed to say but knew it'd be awkward. "Laena, I have something I need to ask. Something that's awkward and a little uncomfortable but I want us to be honest with one another." He paused as he thought on how to phrase his words without upsetting her. "I associate with people you might not like. Some are ardent anti Dornish. Some might have compromising morality. Some have probably offended you or those close to you in some way. I'm not asking you to like them. True I might ask for your help assisting them and would understand if you refused. I want to know if it's going to be a problem." He took a deep breath, "The Cordwayners for example." For now he chose not to mention people like Ser Jonothor, Ser Eoric, or his cousin Lynesse. Laena swallows her instinctive aggression, and thinks before answering. He *had* given up on the Starkwoods for her. It would hardly be fair to not give anything in response. Eventually, she sighs. "I won't act against the Cordwayners. For you." Her voice firms. "Until and unless I come across compelling evidence that Lady Maegelle really did order Lady Ashara's murder. In which case, direct pleas from the Father Himself could not save her - I'd go over His dead body if I had to." Her voice softens again, like she hadn't just threatened to kill a deity. "But until and unless that happens, there is no problem. Because you ask this of me, and I am trying to bend where I can. "Really, that's the rule with me. There are precisely four - no, five - people in this world and the next I wholly care about. So long as they haven't attacked those five people in some way, there is probably no problem." She holds up a hand, fingers spread, counting off fingers as she names them. "Lady Ashara. Ser Aerion. Sylvina. Landar. And you." Her expression flattens. "If they *have* - and I don't mean accidents, I'm not some zealot, nor do I count equal fights, like when you quarrelled with Lady Ashara and you both gave as good as you got, I mean cold-hearted, deliberate attacks on those closest to me in an unfair way - then don't waste your breath asking me to help. There *is* a problem. "You may not like that, but that is as far as I can bend on this, and you asked for honesty. Five people. Only four still living. I am not being greedy to not bend regarding them."
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Post by Balon Blackbriar on Jul 30, 2019 22:17:09 GMT 1
Finally sitting up, her hands already getting him ready for the next round, she looks down at him imperiously and answers. "No. "We have fucked. But you have also fucked She Who Will Not Be Named, that Ghost slut from the Bridges' orgy, and who knows how many other whores. In those terms, I am nothing special. "What I *will* do? That is something I've been looking forward to for a long time. Something unique between the two of us." She straddles his waist, the exciting perversity of taking the man's position thrilling her, body and mind. Locking eyes, she slowly begins teasing him again. "Follow my lead. This is not 'fucking'. This is 'making love'." And she begins again. Slow, tender, intimate. Not a mutual selfish grasp for pleasure, but two bodies, eyes locked, expressing their honest feelings for each other. A misunderstanding at Highgarden's Bread and Salt Ceremony had brought the them together and since then they'd become inexorably closer. But it wasn't until they made love that he truly understood how connected he was to her. To Balon her blue eyes sparkled brighter, her lips more ruby, skin soft as silk. She even "felt" better as they copulated. The deeper emotional connection enhanced everything about her. Unlike earlier in the evening when there was an animalistic fury to their sexual congress this was an intimate experience. Their slow, gradual ascension to climax was more rewarding yet it didn't diminish their previous couplings. When finished Balon stayed inside her and gently pulled Laena down on top of him and gave her a long, passionate kiss. He didn't say much for his words couldn't properly convey what he was feeling. "I understand why people elope." was the only thing he managed to say as he laid on the bed, content. She leans into his embrace, focusing on controlling her breathing to extend the moment as long as possible. "I cannot speak for the Seven, but for me, you were there when I needed you - well, mostly" thinking of the aftermath of Ashara's murder. "As much as you could be. Telling me over and over that society was wrong when it said my life was already over, since I had had sex before. That my mother was wrong when she said that people would only ever love my veneer, not my true self. "That I was *needed*." "It's like we're pieces of a puzzle that neither knew they were missing." Another one of Balon's tortured metaphors. He gently patted her, "The more I learn about your true self the more I realize how right I was." "Because that's liable to cause him to wind up dead. There are four possible regents. Sooner or later, the knives will come out. Marrying to indicate a hard-line position means they are nothing but an obstacle to the other side. So long as a possible regent seems swayable, they're reasonably safe. Plus, either side would be reluctant to kill Lord Marq's goodbrother, and almost guarantee House Durwell support their opponents, helping to safeguard our candidate. "As for why Lord Marq wouldn't marry Lady Amerei, have you *met* her? She's got a pretty face, but her personality is *terrible*. Selfish, immature, and petty. She'll do fine as a baby producer, but I'm pretty sure Lord Marq wishes for someone to understand his art, maybe even assist with it. "The long-term benefit to marrying Ser Abelar comes should misfortune befall the child lord. Unless I'm much mistaken, Ser Abelar is next in line. That would end the entire 'regency' question once and for all. It would hardly be the first time a child lord with an uncle as their regent took a winter chill. In summer. "You are quite correct to question Lord Marq's loyalty. It *is* a risk, certainly. But, contradictory as it sounds, if it weren't a risk, it would be doomed to fail. You and whoever from your faction you choose to help you *will* have to convince Lord Marq that the deal is worth his loyalty." She shrugs. "If you can't, then obviously don't proceed with the plan. But his sister and Ser Abelar should be happy together, and compliment each other well. With everyone happy with the end result, to betray those who made it happen would be ... politically unwise. Plus, as I understand it, the majority of Hightower's banners lean towards the revolutionaries, and a new lord or regent would be wise to not upset their vassals, which Lady Daena would well know." Balon nodded at the logic behind each side's reluctance to kill Lord Marq's goodbrother. In a perfect world a regent that took a rigid pro-Blackfyre stance would force those loyal to the king to look for greener pastures but the assassination of Lord Jon and the power of Oldtown meant each faction would fight for it's control even after the first battle was fought. "I think the best case scenario is to find out who is already a supporter of Ser Daemon and back them. Ser Abelar, with the right marriage, is a suitable back up plan." Balon drummed his fingers in thought on Laena's butt for a moment. "What if Ser Abelar was made to be a puppet? Find out who is loyal to the cause and make them the real power while Abelar is the figurehead? He could still act as if he was swayable, maybe even convince him he's in charge to satisfy his ego?" It'd take extra work to accomplish something like that but it could ensure a tighter grasp on the Hightower's decision making while loyalists wasted their time trying to influence Ser Abelar. This is mostly a stream of conscious from Balon. It's not anything he has thought of in great detail or thinks is a great idea. When Laena mentioned winter fevers in the summer Balon harrumphed, "All the more reason to be wary of a marriage to Lady Daena. Lord Marq is all smiles and courtesies but he seems to get what he wants and making his natural sister the Lady of Oldtown would undoubtedly please him." An alliance with the Durwells was a risk that carried great reward but it seemed as of yet no one could get him to commit to a side. He strings along Lord Gormon and Lord Tyrell why would anything change after a marriage between his sister and Abelar? Best to speak with Lord Gormon about it. "Do you have any great insight into Lord Marq? It'd be nice to know what he wants or what leverage one could gain over him.""I won't act against the Cordwayners. For you." Her voice firms. "Until and unless I come across compelling evidence that Lady Maegelle really did order Lady Ashara's murder. In which case, direct pleas from the Father Himself could not save her - I'd go over His dead body if I had to." Her voice softens again, like she hadn't just threatened to kill a deity. "But until and unless that happens, there is no problem. Because you ask this of me, and I am trying to bend where I can. "Really, that's the rule with me. There are precisely four - no, five - people in this world and the next I wholly care about. So long as they haven't attacked those five people in some way, there is probably no problem." She holds up a hand, fingers spread, counting off fingers as she names them. "Lady Ashara. Ser Aerion. Sylvina. Landar. And you." Her expression flattens. "If they *have* - and I don't mean accidents, I'm not some zealot, nor do I count equal fights, like when you quarreled with Lady Ashara and you both gave as good as you got, I mean cold-hearted, deliberate attacks on those closest to me in an unfair way - then don't waste your breath asking me to help. There *is* a problem. "You may not like that, but that is as far as I can bend on this, and you asked for honesty. Five people. Only four still living. I am not being greedy to not bend regarding them." Balon nodded, accepting her offer. "If Lady Maegelle was responsible for Ashara's death I won't stand in your way of revenge. In fact I'll hold her down while you gut her. I only ask you leave House Cordwayner in the hands of those that support Ser Daemon. Every house, soldier, and coin will be needed to win this war. A house that flips is not only a knight that no longer fights with you, but against you. I don't need to tell you that if her children are declared bastards Hammerhal's new lord is Ser Roland. I can't let that happen." Balon was being honest, "Look, I don't really like Lady Maegelle but Ser Normyn is a powerful knight. Lord Quentin is an able man. The house has a strong martial history. If it makes it more palatable just pretend they're watching out for me on the battlefield." The last part was kind of true. They would be indebted to Balon but only if he secured enough marriages for them. When she mentioned he was now one of the five he pulled her close. "Thank you my love. I will go any length to protect you."
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Post by Laena Pyre on Jul 31, 2019 0:12:15 GMT 1
"I think the best case scenario is to find out who is already a supporter of Ser Daemon and back them. Ser Abelar, with the right marriage, is a suitable back up plan." Balon drummed his fingers in thought on Laena's butt for a moment. "What if Ser Abelar was made to be a puppet? Find out who is loyal to the cause and make them the real power while Abelar is the figurehead? He could still act as if he was swayable, maybe even convince him he's in charge to satisfy his ego?" It'd take extra work to accomplish something like that but it could ensure a tighter grasp on the Hightower's decision making while loyalists wasted their time trying to influence Ser Abelar. Laena firmly shakes her head. "Consider the revolutionist propaganda you've been putting out since the very beginng. 'Knighthood, knighthood, knighthood!', 'A King must be a knight!', and all kind of variations on that same theme attacking the King. Now, there are two knights and two ladies competing for the regency, and Ser Raymun has so little support that the only hope he has of *ever* being regent is if every other candidate is dead. If the revolutionaries coalesce around a lady in preference to a knight, you will expose to every neutral lord and lady the utter hypocrisy and complete absence of morality at the heart of the movement. You *need* Ser Abelar on your side, else you'll wind up with a victory which will defeat you. If you try and dance around him, you run the very serious risk that the crown loyalists will act first to recruit him to *their* side, forcing you to choose between a doomed candidate, or being exposed as hypocrites. By all means, *secure* his loyalty by keeping other revolutionaries near him, and keeping any crown loyalists well away from the reigns of power, but Ser Abelar is *key* for you. Trying to be fancy just increases the chance of crown-loyalists beating you to him, or your plan falling apart entirely. Simple plans tend to become complex when they enter reality. Complex plans tend to fall apart entirely." When Laena mentioned winter fevers in the summer Balon harrumphed, "All the more reason to be wary of a marriage to Lady Daena. Lord Marq is all smiles and courtesies but he seems to get what he wants and making his natural sister the Lady of Oldtown would undoubtedly please him." An alliance with the Durwells was a risk that carried great reward but it seemed as of yet no one could get him to commit to a side. He strings along Lord Gormon and Lord Tyrell why would anything change after a marriage between his sister and Abelar? Best to speak with Lord Gormon about it. "Do you have any great insight into Lord Marq? It'd be nice to know what he wants or what leverage one could gain over him.""A powerful ally, and a dangerous foe, with many friends on both sides. Anyone who believes they know him have likely just fallen into a trap. "All I can really say with any degree of certainty is that power alone is not enough for him to take a wife. Nor is personality. He needs both. A politically-compatible match to a woman who genuinely interests him. Stretching a bit, he wants to marry a female version of himself. "I could be wrong, but there is a very real risk he will avoid committing for almost the entire war, dancing in the shadows, helping out friends on both sides, before finally committing once the outcome is determined, relying on his friends to support him in claiming that he was secretly on their side all along, and listing all the things he did for them. That's speculation, I admit, but it makes sense to me." She sighs. "Or it could be that all I saw was what he *wanted* me to see. The man enjoys being an enigma *far* too much." she grouses. Balon nodded, accepting her offer. "If Lady Maegelle was responsible for Ashara's death I won't stand in your way of revenge. In fact I'll hold her down while you gut her. I only ask you leave House Cordwayner in the hands of those that support Ser Daemon. Every house, soldier, and coin will be needed to win this war. A house that flips is not only a knight that no longer fights with you, but against you. I don't need to tell you that if her children are declared bastards Hammerhal's new lord is Ser Roland. I can't let that happen." Balon was being honest, "Look, I don't really like Lady Maegelle but Ser Normyn is a powerful knight. Lord Quentin is an able man. The house has a strong martial history. If it makes it more palatable just pretend they're watching out for me on the battlefield." The last part was kind of true. They would be indebted to Balon but only if he secured enough marriages for them. She purses her lips for a few moments before finally answering. "Fine. Even if she is behind Ashara's murder, I will not subject her to the same pain she did me. It is a mercy she would *not* deserve, but will receive." She is clearly not *happy* with the deal, but recognises that Balon has given up something he really wants for her, as well, and is trying to give that sacrifice the weight it deserves.
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Post by Balon Blackbriar on Jul 31, 2019 7:19:03 GMT 1
Laena firmly shakes her head. "Consider the revolutionist propaganda you've been putting out since the very beginng. 'Knighthood, knighthood, knighthood!', 'A King must be a knight!', and all kind of variations on that same theme attacking the King. Now, there are two knights and two ladies competing for the regency, and Ser Raymun has so little support that the only hope he has of *ever* being regent is if every other candidate is dead. If the revolutionaries coalesce around a lady in preference to a knight, you will expose to every neutral lord and lady the utter hypocrisy and complete absence of morality at the heart of the movement. You *need* Ser Abelar on your side, else you'll wind up with a victory which will defeat you. If you try and dance around him, you run the very serious risk that the crown loyalists will act first to recruit him to *their* side, forcing you to choose between a doomed candidate, or being exposed as hypocrites. By all means, *secure* his loyalty by keeping other revolutionaries near him, and keeping any crown loyalists well away from the reigns of power, but Ser Abelar is *key* for you. Trying to be fancy just increases the chance of crown-loyalists beating you to him, or your plan falling apart entirely. Simple plans tend to become complex when they enter reality. Complex plans tend to fall apart entirely." "Quite the conundrum, isn't it." Balon said as he let out an exasperated sigh. "Chivalry and knighthood aren't the only reasons people are clamoring for King Daeron's removal but they're the most important, especially in the Reach." Balon hadn't just bent his moral code he had all but shattered it so did it really matter to him if there was a woman as regent? Not really. All that mattered was the regent's dedication to the cause. But Balon couldn't just think of himself. He needed to look through the eyes of every lord in the Reach, the Stormlands, and everywhere else. Andal tradition was strong and tradition said a man should rule. "We need Ser Abelar on our side. In that we are in agreement. I have a few friends and kin that are bannermen to Oldtown. I'll have to speak with them and see what they know. I'd like to have a clearer picture before the issue of regency comes to a head." Balon kissed Laena on top of the head, "Thank you." Balon looked up to the ceiling, lost in thought, "Ser Abelar...." She was right, he'd make the best regent but he needed to be loyal to the cause and that would take some work. "A powerful ally, and a dangerous foe, with many friends on both sides. Anyone who believes they know him have likely just fallen into a trap. "All I can really say with any degree of certainty is that power alone is not enough for him to take a wife. Nor is personality. He needs both. A politically-compatible match to a woman who genuinely interests him. Stretching a bit, he wants to marry a female version of himself. "I could be wrong, but there is a very real risk he will avoid committing for almost the entire war, dancing in the shadows, helping out friends on both sides, before finally committing once the outcome is determined, relying on his friends to support him in claiming that he was secretly on their side all along, and listing all the things he did for them. That's speculation, I admit, but it makes sense to me." She sighs. "Or it could be that all I saw was what he *wanted* me to see. The man enjoys being an enigma *far* too much." she grouses. "If he avoids committing for the majority of war then why should we care about him?" It was an honest question. "I'm not denying his value. He's a smart courtier, a skilled knight. He has his dog Ser Manfryd for protection and capable brothers to assist him but if he waits to pick a side until after the outcome has been determined then I don't see why we should bother." Balon knew the answer to why someone would bother but didn't feel like admitting it. "I'm not talking about snubbing or disrespecting him on purpose." He let out a mirthless laugh, "And trust me I'm not looking to make an enemy out of him for the war or after. If he doesn't care about either side he should just answer Lord Leo's call to arms and as you said do *just* enough in the shadows to convince the winning side he was their ally all along." Balon seemed to be taking pieces of what Laena was saying and put it into a larger picture. "Maybe the focus should be on Lord Leo?"Power and personality. "If he's looking to marry a female version of himself I suspect he will have a very lonely life."She purses her lips for a few moments before finally answering. "Fine. Even if she is behind Ashara's murder, I will not subject her to the same pain she did me. It is a mercy she would *not* deserve, but will receive." She is clearly not *happy* with the deal, but recognizes that Balon has given up something he really wants for her, as well, and is trying to give that sacrifice the weight it deserves. "What pain do you want to inflict upon her?" he asked quizzically. "Is killing her is not enough? Do you want to feed her her children first?" He didn't object to Laena killing Maegelle if she was the culprit behind Ashara's death but now Balon was curious what Laena considered an even trade.
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Post by Laena Pyre on Jul 31, 2019 20:43:44 GMT 1
"We need Ser Abelar on our side. In that we are in agreement. I have a few friends and kin that are bannermen to Oldtown. I'll have to speak with them and see what they know. I'd like to have a clearer picture before the issue of regency comes to a head." Balon kissed Laena on top of the head, "Thank you." After a moment's hesitation, Laena speaks. "There is something I feel you should know. I recommend you ask my brother Ser Daeron about 'the investigation', in private." She puts a finger to his lips. "I cannot tell you *anything* more, even the slightest hint as to what it's about. If he decides to not tell you, that's it. But he may. And if he will, I think it's something you should know about." "If he avoids committing for the majority of war then why should we care about him?" It was an honest question. "I'm not denying his value. He's a smart courtier, a skilled knight. He has his dog Ser Manfryd for protection and capable brothers to assist him but if he waits to pick a side until after the outcome has been determined then I don't see why we should bother." Balon knew the answer to why someone would bother but didn't feel like admitting it. "I'm not talking about snubbing or disrespecting him on purpose." He let out a mirthless laugh, "And trust me I'm not looking to make an enemy out of him for the war or after. If he doesn't care about either side he should just answer Lord Leo's call to arms and as you said do *just* enough in the shadows to convince the winning side he was their ally all along." Balon seemed to be taking pieces of what Laena was saying and put it into a larger picture. "Maybe the focus should be on Lord Leo?" She shrugs. "Maybe. But the key word in what you just said was the first one: 'if'. I see it as a *possibility* only. And only a fool would *rely* on a possibility." Power and personality. "If he's looking to marry a female version of himself I suspect he will have a very lonely life." "He may not be married, but I doubt he'll be lonely. He's probably fucking my sister Lady Ysilla right this very moment." There's a decidedly irked tone in her voice, like she's looking to defend her sister's virtue from the bed of her own lover. "What pain do you want to inflict upon her?" he asked quizzically. "Is killing her is not enough? Do you want to feed her her children first?" He didn't object to Laena killing Maegelle if she was the culprit behind Ashara's death but now Balon was curious what Laena considered an even trade. Laena looks surprised for a moment, then shakes her head. "Sorry. It's the lack of a culprit. I keep my rage in check by ever-more elaborate revenge fantasies. When the time comes, it will be quick and clean. Just get it over and done with so I can have some peace. Don't mind what I say until then." She frowns in thought, and plays with his chest hair. "Though I admit, I'd never thought of *feeding* them to her. That's delightfully cruel. Thank you."
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Post by Balon Blackbriar on Aug 1, 2019 7:25:21 GMT 1
After a moment's hesitation, Laena speaks. "There is something I feel you should know. I recommend you ask my brother Ser Daeron about 'the investigation', in private." She puts a finger to his lips. "I cannot tell you *anything* more, even the slightest hint as to what it's about. If he decides to not tell you, that's it. But he may. And if he will, I think it's something you should know about." Balon frowned. What's this about? He and Daeron had a shared vision but when it came to carrying out that vision the two had very different methods. Whatever this "investigation" of his had uncovered Balon needed to know, and if it was as important as Laena hinted at then Lord Gormon needed to know too. "I understand the need for secrets but not between us..." Balon trailed off and looked away. There was disappointment in his voice, this wasn't the way a relationship built on love was supposed to be. She shrugs. "Maybe. But the key word in what you just said was the first one: 'if'. I see it as a *possibility* only. And only a fool would *rely* on a possibility." "He may not be married, but I doubt he'll be lonely. He's probably fucking my sister Lady Ysilla right this very moment." There's a decidedly irked tone in her voice, like she's looking to defend her sister's virtue from the bed of her own lover. "I don't think either side will stop trying to recruit him but I suppose that's exactly what he wants." Balon chuckled at an absurd thought, " What if at his core he's more like spoiled, arrogant girl? A vain child that demands everyone's attention and only when someone denies him the attention he craves that he goes running to them." Balon had seen it happen time and time again. A young lady being courted by nice, chivalrous knights and she ignored them all because the infamous knight paid her no mind and it drove her wild. Is that what Lord Gormon needed to do? Ignore him? Let him know he isn't that important after all and see if he comes running trying to prove how worthwhile he really is? Balon laughed and waved his hand, "Ignore me I'm tired."Laena looks surprised for a moment, then shakes her head. "Sorry. It's the lack of a culprit. I keep my rage in check by ever-more elaborate revenge fantasies. When the time comes, it will be quick and clean. Just get it over and done with so I can have some peace. Don't mind what I say until then." She frowns in thought, and plays with his chest hair. "Though I admit, I'd never thought of *feeding* them to her. That's delightfully cruel. Thank you." Balon closed his eyes as she played with his chest hair, "If you need an outlet for your rage you know where to find me. Just give my back some time to heal." he said with a smile on his lips. "And your welcome for the idea. I don't know if you can cook or not but if you can I'll remind myself to avoid any of your beef stews when you're angry." Balon yawned and stretched out, resting his hand on her head and running his fingers through her hair, "The hour's late and while *I* don't have a problem with you staying I know you'll have to leave early in the morning. Just wake me up before you go. Creative methods are welcome."I can't think of anything else for now if you want to call it a scene.
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Post by Laena Pyre on Aug 1, 2019 8:55:59 GMT 1
Balon frowned. What's this about? He and Daeron had a shared vision but when it came to carrying out that vision the two had very different methods. Whatever this "investigation" of his had uncovered Balon needed to know, and if it was as important as Laena hinted at then Lord Gormon needed to know too. "I understand the need for secrets but not between us..." Balon trailed off and looked away. There was disappointment in his voice, this wasn't the way a relationship built on love was supposed to be. Laena leans forward, and gives him a kiss on the lips. "I'm sorry. I swore an *oath* that the only person I could discuss it with was Ser Daeron. He quite probably won't be happy I've even said what I already have. But I risk that because I *want* you to know. I don't want there to be secrets between us. But I will not abandon my word to make it happen." Balon yawned and stretched out, resting his hand on her head and running his fingers through her hair, "The hour's late and while *I* don't have a problem with you staying I know you'll have to leave early in the morning. Just wake me up before you go. Creative methods are welcome."She grins. "Setting your chest hair on fire probably qualifies as 'creative'. But so long as you don't snore *too* loudly, I'll try and restrain myself." [Happy if you want a final response, but I think that's /scene otherwise.] *Laena Burns her DP to remove the 'Lascivious' Drawback*
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Post by Balon Blackbriar on Aug 1, 2019 21:02:01 GMT 1
Balon smiled, feeling better after her explanation. "I won't ask you to break your oath. When you swore it to him I doubt you knew you'd end up here in my arms, madly in love." He tried to maintain a sincere voice but started a suppressed laugh at the end. "I'll find a way to get him to share what he's learned." Whatever that may be.
Balon feigned shock, "Set me on fire? By the Seven I'd hate to see you unrestrained..." Balon settled in for the night, "If I snore just elbow me until I roll over. By the way I have a present for you before you leave if that's enough incentive not to immolate me."
***
Come morning Balon gave Laena her present. A pair of silver armlets with detailed filigree. At the ends of each band was a small sapphire, an obvious match to the circlet he'd gifted her at Highgarden. He gently stroked her shoulders, "Head, arms, waist. What do I need to get you next?" He looked her up and down and gave an approvingly look, "A torc perhaps? As long as it doesn't get in the way of kissing your neck."
Balon brought his hand from Laena's shoulder to her stomach. He found himself sighing, "I know how you feel about bastards but part of me hopes you don't drink Moon Tea when you get back to your tent."
After kissing her and saying their goodbyes Balon was left alone in his room with his thoughts. Laena Pyre loves me. I'm the luckiest man in the Seven Kingdoms.
/Scene for me. Dropping Lascivious! Balon is going to have to be a good boy* and work on improving himself. lol
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Post by Laena Pyre on Aug 3, 2019 7:07:15 GMT 1
Come morning Balon gave Laena her present. A pair of silver armlets with detailed filigree. At the ends of each band was a small sapphire, an obvious match to the circlet he'd gifted her at Highgarden. Laena discreetly breathed a sigh of relief. She'd known about the armlets since she poked around his room. If he hadn't given them to her, that would mean he had another woman on the side, and that wouldn't end well for him or the slut. He gently stroked her shoulders, "Head, arms, waist. What do I need to get you next?" He looked her up and down and gave an approvingly look, "A torc perhaps? As long as it doesn't get in the way of kissing your neck.""Anklets, maybe? Only the loosest of women would be in the presence of a man not her husband with bare legs." Her tone dryly amused. Balon brought his hand from Laena's shoulder to her stomach. He found himself sighing, "I know how you feel about bastards but part of me hopes you don't drink Moon Tea when you get back to your tent." Laena pushes up and kisses him briefly on the mouth. "'Hope' is a precious thing. Without hope, there would be little point in living." She saunters towards the door, swinging her rear teasingly, covering the armlets with her sleeves, so she's less enticing for any early-rising muggers. "So by all means, keep hoping." She smirks at him over her shoulder, before slipping out the door. [/scene]
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