A Game of Masks Chapter 2
Title: A Game of Masks
Pairings: Super Junior Members + OCs
Rating: PG-13 for violence
Notes: Character death, Medieval/Fantasy AU, occasional crack
Summary: Magic, intrigue and secrets abound in and around the king's court. While everyone has something to hide, some have more than others. Who has the biggest secret and will it end up tearing the kingdom apart?
Chapter 2
In the courtyard of the castle a large crowd had gathered. The nobility as well as the peasants craned their necks and stood on tip toe trying to see the newest arrivals to court. A large caravan had arrived a short time ago. This kind of event was common enough; however, what made this instance worthy of such a crowd was the fact that this group consisted of foreigners. It was not uncommon for dignitaries from other kingdoms to visit but few did it with this large of a group or with this much grandeur. Painted a brilliant shade of red with golden trim lavishly applied, carriages carrying the nobility were grander than many in the crowd had ever seen. Beautiful flags in a vast array of colors flew from the coaches, slowly dancing in the slight breeze. Following behind these grand conveyances came wagon after wagon, simple but heavily laden with goods. Many of the onlookers gaped in frank amazement at the sheer number of wagons and horses. Excited comments filled the air. What kingdom was sending such a large retinue? Did that kingdom have any goods or merchants left? After many minutes the procession slowed then stopped; the vanguard had reached the receiving square.
King Kangin, Queen Jagroop and a large number of officials, lords and ladies stood ready to receive the new guests. The herald stepped forward and bowing to the royal couple said, “Your Majesties, in the name of King Hwang Kek, ruler of Formosa, I greet you. King Hwan Kek sends his warmest regards and many wishes for prosperity and peace. May the heavens shine brightly upon your kingdom, now and forever.” The crowd was amazed at the man’s fluency; there was no trace of a Formosian accent despite his obvious heritage. As one the Royal Couple returned the gesture. “Welcome to the fair land of Cordynia. You are most welcome. Allow us to show you our warmth and hospitality,” the king said. His words were sent perfunctorily but politely. The warmth of the greeting wasn’t reflected in his face, however. Bowing again, the herald turned and gestured. A handsome, well-built man stepped forward and bowed. “Greetings, Your Majesties. My name is Han Geng, the Formosian ambassador. It is my extreme pleasure to meet the both of you. King Hwan Kek extends his thanks for allowing our visit to coincide with your spring festival. We greatly appreciate your generosity and graciousness. Your hospitality is well spoken of far and wide. No doubt both our kingdoms will profit from this visit.”
Now that the requisite introductions were done the chatelaine stepped forward and began directing the unloading. The Formosian ambassador, visiting dignitaries, lords and ladies with their various servants were directed towards their rooms in the castle while the merchants were sent to the warehouses to unload. Kangin watched the proceedings with an implacable expression. After some time he turned and walked back inside. Queen Jagroop followed behind, lost in her own wonderings.
Having come from another kingdom she often felt isolated and alone. She wondered if she might be able to find a kindred soul among the women of Formosa, someone who would understand her homesickness and culture-shock. Jagroop hoped at least some of them were semi-fluent in Cordish as her own skills in speaking Formi were lacking. Learning languages had never been her strong point, a fact her father had often bemoaned. She studied hard prior to her marriage, however her conversation skills were still basic when she became Queen. Being immersed in the language for three years had greatly increased her vocabulary. Still, her features and accent marked her as different. In the three years Jagroop had been queen she hadn’t made any friends. There were several ladies of the court with whom she was friendly but not close enough that she would consider them friends. The majority of the ladies found her masculine style of dressing a difficult barrier to overcome. They were raised to expect certain standards of a noble lady and the wearing of men’s clothing certainly did not meet that standard. Jagroop even carried herself like a man, too - purposefully striding through the corridors instead of gliding daintily as ladies were taught to do. She also spoke directly and had little interest in the mindless chatting and gossiping that comprised much of the womenfolks’ conversations. Suffice it to say that the queen certainly did not fit in well with the ladies of the court.
Part of the reason for her unique behaviors was from living with fourteen brothers. She was still young when her mother passed away so Jagroop spent much of her life surrounded by men. There were, of course, female servants and tutors. However, due to a severe shortage of females throughout her entire family tree her playmates by default were her brothers. This, however, was not the most compelling reason for the queen’s actions. Growing up she observed how women were expected to be subservient to men and this was an idea that she found abhorrent. Even the most brilliant and talented of ladies were viewed as of a lesser standard than those of the opposite sex. In public women were expected to be docile, sweet, unoffending and demure; however, in private women often simpered and cooed over men, using flirting and other underhanded tricks to try and control them. All of this struck Jagroop as false and very wrong.
She determined at a young age that she would never let a man dominate her. She refused to act like a brainless little bird that flitted about the castle, whiling away her life with handcrafts and gossip. Rather, she would live life honestly and unashamedly; enjoying wholeheartedly those things in life she loved, even if they were deemed unladylike or beneath her station. Jagroop also refused to be a secret puppeteer, pulling her husband’s strings with womanly wiles and charms. She would live honestly with her match, not trying to control him or letting him control her. The queen knew the king did not love her. While it made her sad, she was content that he let her do as she pleased for the most part. Kangin didn’t try to make her act like a stereotypical woman so long as she didn’t meddle in his affairs or do anything too scandalous. For now, it would have to be enough.
Very nice apartment, indeed, Han Geng thought as he looked around the suite of rooms he had been given. The servants were busy unpacking from the journey. Stone walls were a marbled gray and covered by several tapestries in a variety of muted tones. A number of plush chairs and sofas sat around the room, covered in earth-toned velvets. To keep the space from looking drab lots of pillows and rugs in bright colors were strewn about. Over all, the effect was comfortable and cheery. Crossing to the windows, Geng opened the heavy shutters to reveal the light of the fading sun. The rays of light bathed the city below in a wash of color, giving it almost an ethereal feeling. He breathed the fresh spring air deeply, profoundly glad to be out of the carriage after a three week journey. His muscles felt tight and much abused from the constant bumping and jostling of the carriage from sunrise to sunset. Geng hoped that a soak in a hot tub and some liniment would help his muscles tremendously. Calling for one of the servants, he asked that a bath be drawn for him. Turning from the window he sighed and reminded himself of what he was there to do.
Han Geng’s POV
As I sat soaking my aching muscles in the marble tub, I reflected on the many tasks I was obligated to accomplish. Mentally, I checked off the list of treaties and trade agreements King Hwang Kek was interested in. Formosa imported many goods from Cordynia and the king wanted to try and increase the amount of exports to its neighbor. He didn’t fancy being so reliant on one kingdom for so much of its imports, he wanted it to be more equitable. Also, there were a number of marriages between the two noble houses that needed brokering. Both kings had numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. It was in the interest of both nations to intermarry and foster each others’ children. I sighed, wondering how it was going to be working with King Kangin. He had a reputation of being very hard to read; his facial expressions and tone of voice rarely give any indication of his true thoughts and feelings. The king was known as a tough negotiator at times, stubborn in the face of all opposition. In other instances he has agreed quickly, almost as if he didn’t care about the matter at all. I will reserve judgment on the man until I have met him. I, of all people, should know that people are not always what they seem. Resting my head back, I thought of everything else I was required to do. The warm water and lack of good sleep while traveling must have lulled me to sleep because the next thing I knew a servant was calling me to come and dress for dinner. Feeling much better, I climbed from the tub and followed the servant back to my sleeping quarters.
Pairings: Super Junior Members + OCs
Rating: PG-13 for violence
Notes: Character death, Medieval/Fantasy AU, occasional crack
Summary: Magic, intrigue and secrets abound in and around the king's court. While everyone has something to hide, some have more than others. Who has the biggest secret and will it end up tearing the kingdom apart?
Chapter 2
In the courtyard of the castle a large crowd had gathered. The nobility as well as the peasants craned their necks and stood on tip toe trying to see the newest arrivals to court. A large caravan had arrived a short time ago. This kind of event was common enough; however, what made this instance worthy of such a crowd was the fact that this group consisted of foreigners. It was not uncommon for dignitaries from other kingdoms to visit but few did it with this large of a group or with this much grandeur. Painted a brilliant shade of red with golden trim lavishly applied, carriages carrying the nobility were grander than many in the crowd had ever seen. Beautiful flags in a vast array of colors flew from the coaches, slowly dancing in the slight breeze. Following behind these grand conveyances came wagon after wagon, simple but heavily laden with goods. Many of the onlookers gaped in frank amazement at the sheer number of wagons and horses. Excited comments filled the air. What kingdom was sending such a large retinue? Did that kingdom have any goods or merchants left? After many minutes the procession slowed then stopped; the vanguard had reached the receiving square.
King Kangin, Queen Jagroop and a large number of officials, lords and ladies stood ready to receive the new guests. The herald stepped forward and bowing to the royal couple said, “Your Majesties, in the name of King Hwang Kek, ruler of Formosa, I greet you. King Hwan Kek sends his warmest regards and many wishes for prosperity and peace. May the heavens shine brightly upon your kingdom, now and forever.” The crowd was amazed at the man’s fluency; there was no trace of a Formosian accent despite his obvious heritage. As one the Royal Couple returned the gesture. “Welcome to the fair land of Cordynia. You are most welcome. Allow us to show you our warmth and hospitality,” the king said. His words were sent perfunctorily but politely. The warmth of the greeting wasn’t reflected in his face, however. Bowing again, the herald turned and gestured. A handsome, well-built man stepped forward and bowed. “Greetings, Your Majesties. My name is Han Geng, the Formosian ambassador. It is my extreme pleasure to meet the both of you. King Hwan Kek extends his thanks for allowing our visit to coincide with your spring festival. We greatly appreciate your generosity and graciousness. Your hospitality is well spoken of far and wide. No doubt both our kingdoms will profit from this visit.”
Now that the requisite introductions were done the chatelaine stepped forward and began directing the unloading. The Formosian ambassador, visiting dignitaries, lords and ladies with their various servants were directed towards their rooms in the castle while the merchants were sent to the warehouses to unload. Kangin watched the proceedings with an implacable expression. After some time he turned and walked back inside. Queen Jagroop followed behind, lost in her own wonderings.
Having come from another kingdom she often felt isolated and alone. She wondered if she might be able to find a kindred soul among the women of Formosa, someone who would understand her homesickness and culture-shock. Jagroop hoped at least some of them were semi-fluent in Cordish as her own skills in speaking Formi were lacking. Learning languages had never been her strong point, a fact her father had often bemoaned. She studied hard prior to her marriage, however her conversation skills were still basic when she became Queen. Being immersed in the language for three years had greatly increased her vocabulary. Still, her features and accent marked her as different. In the three years Jagroop had been queen she hadn’t made any friends. There were several ladies of the court with whom she was friendly but not close enough that she would consider them friends. The majority of the ladies found her masculine style of dressing a difficult barrier to overcome. They were raised to expect certain standards of a noble lady and the wearing of men’s clothing certainly did not meet that standard. Jagroop even carried herself like a man, too - purposefully striding through the corridors instead of gliding daintily as ladies were taught to do. She also spoke directly and had little interest in the mindless chatting and gossiping that comprised much of the womenfolks’ conversations. Suffice it to say that the queen certainly did not fit in well with the ladies of the court.
Part of the reason for her unique behaviors was from living with fourteen brothers. She was still young when her mother passed away so Jagroop spent much of her life surrounded by men. There were, of course, female servants and tutors. However, due to a severe shortage of females throughout her entire family tree her playmates by default were her brothers. This, however, was not the most compelling reason for the queen’s actions. Growing up she observed how women were expected to be subservient to men and this was an idea that she found abhorrent. Even the most brilliant and talented of ladies were viewed as of a lesser standard than those of the opposite sex. In public women were expected to be docile, sweet, unoffending and demure; however, in private women often simpered and cooed over men, using flirting and other underhanded tricks to try and control them. All of this struck Jagroop as false and very wrong.
She determined at a young age that she would never let a man dominate her. She refused to act like a brainless little bird that flitted about the castle, whiling away her life with handcrafts and gossip. Rather, she would live life honestly and unashamedly; enjoying wholeheartedly those things in life she loved, even if they were deemed unladylike or beneath her station. Jagroop also refused to be a secret puppeteer, pulling her husband’s strings with womanly wiles and charms. She would live honestly with her match, not trying to control him or letting him control her. The queen knew the king did not love her. While it made her sad, she was content that he let her do as she pleased for the most part. Kangin didn’t try to make her act like a stereotypical woman so long as she didn’t meddle in his affairs or do anything too scandalous. For now, it would have to be enough.
Very nice apartment, indeed, Han Geng thought as he looked around the suite of rooms he had been given. The servants were busy unpacking from the journey. Stone walls were a marbled gray and covered by several tapestries in a variety of muted tones. A number of plush chairs and sofas sat around the room, covered in earth-toned velvets. To keep the space from looking drab lots of pillows and rugs in bright colors were strewn about. Over all, the effect was comfortable and cheery. Crossing to the windows, Geng opened the heavy shutters to reveal the light of the fading sun. The rays of light bathed the city below in a wash of color, giving it almost an ethereal feeling. He breathed the fresh spring air deeply, profoundly glad to be out of the carriage after a three week journey. His muscles felt tight and much abused from the constant bumping and jostling of the carriage from sunrise to sunset. Geng hoped that a soak in a hot tub and some liniment would help his muscles tremendously. Calling for one of the servants, he asked that a bath be drawn for him. Turning from the window he sighed and reminded himself of what he was there to do.
Han Geng’s POV
As I sat soaking my aching muscles in the marble tub, I reflected on the many tasks I was obligated to accomplish. Mentally, I checked off the list of treaties and trade agreements King Hwang Kek was interested in. Formosa imported many goods from Cordynia and the king wanted to try and increase the amount of exports to its neighbor. He didn’t fancy being so reliant on one kingdom for so much of its imports, he wanted it to be more equitable. Also, there were a number of marriages between the two noble houses that needed brokering. Both kings had numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. It was in the interest of both nations to intermarry and foster each others’ children. I sighed, wondering how it was going to be working with King Kangin. He had a reputation of being very hard to read; his facial expressions and tone of voice rarely give any indication of his true thoughts and feelings. The king was known as a tough negotiator at times, stubborn in the face of all opposition. In other instances he has agreed quickly, almost as if he didn’t care about the matter at all. I will reserve judgment on the man until I have met him. I, of all people, should know that people are not always what they seem. Resting my head back, I thought of everything else I was required to do. The warm water and lack of good sleep while traveling must have lulled me to sleep because the next thing I knew a servant was calling me to come and dress for dinner. Feeling much better, I climbed from the tub and followed the servant back to my sleeping quarters.