a trampled rose

Lisette Malcolm. 24. Countess of Sutherland

[captive-lisette-blog]

james-of-scotland:

“Did you hear that ruckus? It sounded like someone ran into like, six suits of armor and just took off,” James said, peeking out into the hall. He had been getting ready to bathe when he heard the noise. He looked to the other person in the hall, raising an eyebrow. “Or is it just me? Maybe a few horses and a banshee went by.” 

Lisette too, opened her chamber door expecting to see a drove of elephants making their way through the corridor but instead looked across the hall to a very unclothed James. Immediately she shielded her eyes, “God, James! Were you so curious you couldn’t even throw on some night clothes?” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

valoisrosalie:

“Court? Heavens, no. I certainly don’t wield enough power in England to make any sort of dent in that cocoon. And, to be honest, I don’t particularly have a taste for drama, much less creating it where it should not otherwise be necessary. I was simply referring to my engagement to the king; when it goes ahead, I should rightly hope that that in itself will be enough to thwart the whisperings within these grounds.”

Rosalie’s gaze swept over Lisette’s form, and how calm she looked. It was interesting that a political prisoner was able to hold herself with such dignity, and speak as though she wielded so much power. As a young girl, Rosalie might have once looked up to her, even idolising her for the way she behaved… But she couldn’t deny how she disliked the mannerisms. Lisette reminded her of a young version of Queen Elizabeth; a member of court who had given her her first taste of abhorrence.

“I appreciate that thought,” Rosalie continued, knowing full well that Lisette’s sweetness was merely an act, “and I agree with your opinion entirely; but unfortunately these rumours circulate me and therefore, I must worry. Any sort of threat to my future is a cause for concern.”

Lisette nodded as the princess explained her meaning, thinking that it was a prudent choice to let the rumors rest until they could be proven false. “Speaking of your engagement, do you and the King have any sort of time table in regards to it moving forwards? Perhaps even to a potential marriage?” Her questions thickened the air between them, Lisette all too curious to know what exactly Tristan was telling the girl, especially if it somehow differed from what he was telling her. 

“Of course, I wasn’t trying to discredit your ill feelings towards the rumors. There’s no doubt they would cause you concern, I was simply answering your question as to how I felt about them.”, Lisette pressed, “And I still see no reason to concern yourself with the Spanish princess.” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

joseph-moncada:

He chuckled at her name for him. “I would rather be a Spanish errand boy than a heartbroken prisoner,” he returned, yet his tone was still playful despite hers being the opposite. “Misplaced anger will get you nowhere. You will come to realise that I am actually rather fun once you get to know me.” The two dealt with their frustration in different, rather opposite ways.

“Who says I’m heartbroken?”, she asked, nearing him as her anger softened to sadness, “Who says I’m broken at all?” His words picked at healing wounds, the Countess finally feeling at ease in English court only to reminded of how they all truly saw her. “You seem quite the opposite to me, sir. Coming into my rooms unannounced and telling me I am a prisoner.”, the Countess said again, setting her jaw, thinking of how this young man could be hanging from a rope had Tristan heard his words.

[captive-lisette-blog]

valoisrosalie:

Lisette’s fluid change in facial expressions only confirmed her suspicion about the girl. The subtle change in her intonation only supported her deduction, prompting her to be cautious in her responses, to think all of her answers through. One wrong word and Lisette could misinterpret her, and Rosalie knew how savvy she was to castle gossips; perhaps even being one herself. The last thing she needed was for her name to be ruined.

“Yes,” Rosalie nodded, nonchalant. “I have caught word of such… Things. It is a pity how common knowledge, whether right or wrong, spreads like wildfire between these walls. Regardless, I hope to put these rumours to rest soon.” She smiled. “And you? How do you feel about such utterances?”

“Put the rumors to rest how, dear?”, Lisette asked curiously, her brows knitting together. “Surely you don’t mean to address such things in court? You’ll simply be fanning the flames of this idle talk.” It was honest advice, some she wished she herself had heeded when they first arrived at English court. All of the whispers surrounding her mother and brother left the Countess reeling, causing her to defend herself in front of a host of English courtiers. The spectacle did nothing to her defense, only aiding them in their judgements of her in the end. Despite her distaste for anyone labeled as Tristan’s ‘betrothed’, Lisette could see that such a timid princess did not have a prayer to answer that sort of reckoning. 

The girl sat down on her chaise, her casual pose meant to physically show Rosalie that she was unbothered by the talk of the Spanish princess, “I feel... a political move has been made by a desperate young woman, grasping at relevance in a court and with a man she barely knows.” Lisette threw the french Princess a smile, “I feel these rumors are no place for your worry.” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

spanish-rose-with-thorns:

“I believe that he would have at least given it some thought by now, since he is an intelligent man and an incredible king. I am quite proud of our naval forces. The Spanish armada is something that I would consider a wonder. Yes, God always blesses Spain. I am very thankful for his many gifts that he has provided for me.” She replied. Anyone with half a brain could see that Spain provides more than France ever could, at least that was what Isabella felt. 

“Madeline is quite a kind soul and holds a warmth with her. I am not surprised that she was that way since she was little.” Isabella replied. Her words were truthful. She did appreciate Madeline’s positive personality. “I am sure that she was part of what made Scotland a paradise as you said. I look forward to getting to know her more for however long we are in the same court.” Isabella did not say English court because she intended to become the queen of the Spanish court. In truth, she was embellishing a slightly when it came to getting to know Madeline. While the girl was nice and would make a decent friend, she cared more about Tristan. She did not have to have the favor of Madeline or James, though it was nice to have and she would work towards a friendship with the two. 

“Why of course, and why should you be? God has smiled upon you, your family, and your country. As I still believe He smiles on my own. In due time, His will shall be restored and our rightful King shall sit upon his throne.”, Lisette answered politely, parroting words as one does when they wish to disengage. Lisette neednt hear of Spain’s great accomplishments and accolades, as she was not the one Isabella seemed desperate to impress. 

She may not be of royal blood, but Lisette was still a noble woman, taught by the finest tutors and accustomed to the cunning ways in which courtiers spoke to one another. She immediately picked up on Isabella’s choice of words, taking a deep breath as she realized the woman truly believed herself to be her future Queen. Lisette stifled a laugh. A wee Spanish queen? In Scotland? The lairds would never have it. Her country needed the Armada to take back the throne, but the arrangement would inevitably sour once Isabella stepped on Scottish soil. Lisette was sure of it. 

“Perhaps we will all sit for tea in the gardens sometime, or whatever it is these English ladies do for fun. I’ve been here months already and I still cannot discern if they have fun at all.”, she jested, a deflection from talk to Madeline or Scotland. Already Lisette disliked the sound of either coming out of Isabella’s mouth. 

[captive-lisette-blog]

camilledubelay:

     She almost laughed again, this time it was nearly bubbling past her lips before she could truly pull it back. Motherhood had always been a secret desire of hers, but it was not something she ever believed would a reality. Should her womb bear any fruit from the king, then they would be legitimate princes and princesses. The world would not snicker at her half royal offspring but would instead marvel at true born children of Charles and Camille of France. She would never dare litter her body with bastards in a pathetic attempt to maintain her grip on Charles. There were other ways to show her usefulness to him besides bearing children. “Such a vicious bite you have, little lamb. Unfortunately there will be no children in my near future as Scotland has shown me what can become of a power hungry bastard. I would much rather my children be born into power and not have to claw away it like beasts of prey.”

     Her second question took her completely by surprise.Had Camille given the Countess any indication that the two of them were friends who spoke openly about their lives? Some women chattered about the romance in their lives, but Camille was never that friendly. Scaling her brown further up her forehead, she swiftly rolled her eyes and sighed. Clearly there was something bothering the girl, but Camille was certain that this was a conversation best had with someone closer to the Countess. Love was such a trivial thing that she preferred not to dabble in. Charles had her affection, her patience, and her support. She needn’t love him in order to provide him with those things. “Whether or not I love him has nothing to do with our relationship, and it also none of your business for that matter.” If the Countess was a smart woman, she would be able to read between the lines to get her answer. Whatever it was that Camille felt for Charles, it was not love. Surprisingly enough, she didn’t love him, but she hoped that he loved her enough to damn everyone else for her. “What is it that you gain by asking me this?”

Lisette felt her eyes narrow, that Scottish temper slipping away from her yet again. This time  however it was not fire spewing from the Countess’ blossom lips, but ice. “My dear don’t be ridiculous, you have more in common with my treacherous half-brother than I do. Leeching a country until it’s monarchy is crippled, forcing it’s true leaders to flee to a court that they would otherwise be unwelcome to.”, she said cooly, “You are the beast clawing away at France, strìopach, and no matter how many lavish gowns the King gives you, we can all still see the dirt under your nails.” 

She sighed then, answering simply, “I see.” Lisette turned from her then, having already received the clarity she’d asked for. Camille had very little in common with herself and very much in common with her mother, who the Countess knew never bore any real feelings towards Tristan’s father or her own. Like the woman in front of her, she always cared only for the power they gave her. 

“I gain nothing in your answer..”, she said plainly, finishing her thought in her head alone. 

..but I shall lose everything should someone ask me the same.

[captive-lisette-blog]

spanish-rose-with-thorns:

“It is terrible that happened to your country. I believe that Spain could be willing to assist the king, though that would be a discussion between the king and my mother instead of us. I wish very much for the success of both of our countries and for yours to turn back into the paradise that you love.” Of course, there were some stipulations. Replacing his current betrothal with a new as an example. Yet, Isabella did not have to mention that. It did not make for polite conversation.

“You, the king, James, Madeline. I am sure that you all are eager. I’d hate for Madeline to hear you excluding her for being excited to return to Scotland. I know how much she loves her home.” Isabella replied with a polite smile. However, she knew that it also showed to Lisette that Isabella took time to at least speak with Tristan’s siblings. Isabella was not going to be intimidated by a potential mistress. It was all that Lisette would be if the rumors in the court were true. Did Isabella care about a mistress? No. As long as she was queen it didn’t matter.

“I’m sure the King would find such help very.. intriguing. The naval forces of Spain are well commended, especially alongside the full might of the your good friends at the Vatican.”, Lis answered pointedly, learning for herself what Tristan hoped to secure in such an alliance. To her mind, such a match made perfect sense for both of their countries, yet that logic did nothing to settle the Countess’ stomach. 

If it hadn’t been such an apparent show of force, Lisette may have cracked an actual smile at the Princess. Truly it was quite funny, the way Isabella so obviously underestimated Lisette. The countess should have been used to such things by now, yet it still surprised her.

Despite the Spanish girl’s attempt at showing how well she already knew the Scottish court, her response showed only how little she knew of Tristan and his siblings. “Yes of course.”, Lisette shook her head as if she were on the verge of laughter, “How could anyone ever hope to forget Madeline? Such a sweet thing, her, has been ever since she was a girl.” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

joseph-moncada:

Joseph playfully cocked an eyebrow, noting how such rumblings clearly meant much more than a simple analysis would propose. It was easier for him to act unaffected by all of this. That the potential marriage between Tristan and Isabella had nothing to do with him. But he could not understand, nor ignore, his attraction to her. He was happily, albeit secretly, married to Veronique and the two of them had a fairly open relationship. Joseph continued to sleep with as many men and women as he desired, and did not care what they did after. Yet Isabella had been unusually precious to him, despite only having shared a kiss with her. Whether Joseph wanted to admit or not, Lisette and himself were in the same boat.

“But it is so much better to ask you,” he teased. “The King and I are not exactly the best of friends. And whilst you may not want to now, I think you will desire my friendship eventually.”

She turned to him then, her irritation only furthered by his casual demeanor and his teasing, “And why exactly would I desire that?” Her tone was cross, bordering petulant, but there was a reason the Countess hadn’t sent him out of her rooms immediately when the questions began. She was, after all, more invested than anyone on the validity of such rumors. “What are you again?”, she asked suddenly, her irritation bubbling over, “The Spanish errand boy?” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

spanish-rose-with-thorns:

Isabella was curious about the countess’ opinions on the rumors, but not enough to ask and potentially have Tristan hear of her curiosity in their potential betrothal. Not to mention, no matter the rumors, the princess knew what would happen and she knew it was the better decision for both countries involved then his current arrangement. 

She smiled at the woman when she heard her agree. “That is nice. Spain was passionate and beautiful. There was always something to be celebrated and I love to believe that everyone is genuinely happy there. However, I guess that is what every royal wants for the people in their court.”

“I fear you are correct in that. The highlands seemed a paradise full of love and kinship until rebellion swept through the streets like plague.”, Lisette intoned, happy to move the conversation to home and not on the apparent questions that hung in the room between them. She was privy to all the castle gossip, and knew that rumors followed Tristan and her no matter what court they resided in. Most of the time they were quite cautious, whispers easily batted away as gossip when there was no proof to find. But in the months since the attacks, the King and her became a bit messier in their time together, too wrapped up in the after glow of their confessions to one another to pay enough attention. 

Lisette looked to the princess then, knowing enough about her to know she was not just another stupid girl, saying steadily, “The King and I are both eager to be back in Scotland, as I’m sure you are to be back to Spain.” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

camilledubelay:

     Camille always kept her feet dipped in the pond of courtly gossip. She had become something of a master at spinning stories to fit her own narrative no matter how outrageous they were. Any good woman with a decent head on her shoulders knew the benefits of being the whisper that guided forked tongues in the right direction. Camille and her ladies were never without a story falling from their lips, but this was one she somehow had not heard. Lady Marguerite was befriended and made one of Camille’s ladies specifically for her affinity for gossip, and yet she had not reported this to her mistress. To find that even the Scottish slave had become privy to such tales before herself was almost insulting. Although, it did intrigue her to see just how annoyed the little countess was with the questioning, and it led Camille to believe that it must have had something to do with the the little lamb being raised for slaughter. So she dropped her shoulders and released a silvery chuckle at hearing the woman’s frustration.

     “No, I wouldn’t imagine you would hear anything from him, petit agneau. I can see no reason for him to tell his prisoner anything other than to count the days until she meets the execution block.” She teased, making her way closer to the Countess with a permanent smirk laced across her lips. There was no pride in kicking a wounded lamb but she did so anyway for her own enjoyment. If she wanted the little Scot to pass along the information then she needed to be much nicer to her than she really wanted to. “I am only teasing, as I have not spoken with you since the coronation. I am still waiting on those cardinals to plot my downfall and I see your felled King has yet to put you to the sword so it seems that we are both treading upon the greener side of the grass these days.”

At her words, Lisette nearly picked up a nearby book and hurled it at the french mistress. There was something about Camille, that manipulative gaze and ever-present smirk, that reminded the Scottish Countess of her own mother. Perhaps that was what it meant to be a King’s mistress, to drain oneself of compassion in exchange for cunning. Still, as much as the comparison grated at Lisette, her grief was still enough that it held her back from clawing the woman’s eyes out right then and there. 

“Oi.”, she responded, her accent emerging in frustrations, “Don’t you have some wee bassas to pop out before the French King tires of you?” Her stance squared, knowing enough of french to know when she was being compared to a farm animal, and a docile one of that. But then, something interesting happened, she felt a sort of kinship with Camille. Should these rumors be true, a royal mistress may be the highest position Lisette ever occupies. 

The thought made her face pale, thinking it may only be a matter of time before she too fell into the same mold of her mother and Camille. “Do you love him?”, she said plainly, the words appearing on their own as she spoke them aloud. “The King of France, I mean.” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

spanish-rose-with-thorns:

“I am sure that you did.” Isabella replied politely and smiled back though she was unsure if the woman’s smile was truly a genuine one. “You are welcome. I am glad that you are rid of him.”

“Only by those that do not fear my mother.” She joked in an attempt to lighten the mood a little bit. “I feel that the English court has a little bit more gossiping than the Spanish one, but that might also be because so many people and countries are present in it that it provides an opportunity. I hope that you have not been bothered too much.”

Her smile stayed warm, the Countess only nodding at her response, unsure of what else needed to be said. It wasn’t as if she was going to bring up such rumors in front of the Princess, especially as Lis hadn’t been given an opportunity to confront Tristan about them. 

“I would have to agree..”, Lisette intoned, empathetic to the girl finally. After all, Lisette had been the main source of whisperings when the Scots arrived at court. A disgraced Countess who’s mother was beheaded and who’s brother usurped her King’s throne. “Scotland’s court was much calmer, filled with many more friendly faces.”, Lisette offered, before realizing she shouldn’t be selling the comforts of Scotland to someone who might wish to be her future Queen. 

[captive-lisette-blog]

spanish-rose-with-thorns:

“I think that she has made it clear that she is finished with your questions, my lord.” The brunette stated right as the man was about to open his mouth to further gossip about Tristan. He bowed before the princess after he realized who had spoken to him. “I find it best that you leave. She has provided you all the information that was readily available to her.” With that, the gossiping man was gone and she was left with the woman before her. 

“He did not bother you too much, did he? A nosy man he certainly was. I apologize for my own nosiness in interrupting, but I fear he would have never left you to be.”

The sight of her made Lisette bristle, the subject of all said rumors and perhaps the last person the Countess wanted to ‘save’ her from them. “I had things handled.”, she said quickly, before painting on a grateful smile, “But thank you, your Highness. I’m happy to be rid of him.” 

“I’m sure you’ve been badgered by the castle gossips as well?”, she asked her then, curious herself, “I can’t be the only one they’re after now that our attackers have fled and the court is silent.” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

valoisrosalie:

To say the least, Rosalie was surprised by Lisette’s sharp attitude towards her maid. She watched the girl leave, delicately gathering up her skirts and stepping out of her way. She couldn’t help but feel that Lisette’s sweet demeanour was falsified, and that there was more hidden behind her facade than she let on. Her features were hardly soft; they were striking, and calculating. Rosalie had never really had reason to talk to her before, and was starting to regret her decision.

“Why, not at all.” She responded. “Only… Well, I heard you mention the king. Is everything alright?”

Lisette’s features settled into an easy smile, one the girl had practiced for a year now, ever since her treasonous half-brother unseated their King and turned her life into one long dreadful nightmare. It was a smile she brought out for occasions such as this, a dangerous encounter in this foreign court which deemed her true emotions lay hidden, emotions like her love for Tristan and her distaste of his future wife. 

It was no more than her mother had been executed for. 

“Yes, I’m sorry about all of that.”, she answered, gesturing towards the handmaid that left them, “They’ve been giggling over a rumor they heard about His Majesty, very juvenile whispers really. Something about him ousting you for a Spanish princess that just arrived at court.” Lisette watched the girl closely, gauging her reactions, “I’m sure someone saw them walking in the gardens and got some ridiculous idea in their head about it. You know how these things are..” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

valoisrosalie:

Rosalie had been walking along the castle corridors aimlessly, lost in her own fantasies as she usually could be found, when she heard the bitter, feminine exclamation cut through the otherwise still air. Had it been any other occasion, she simply would have kept her head down and quickened her pace, determined not to get caught up in such disputes; but the same voice made reference to Tristan, and that was enough to make her breath hitch in her throat.

She slowed her pace as she approached the door where the sound was coming from and came to a standstill outside the frame, peering inside at the figure of Lisette. She’d had no quarrel with the girl previously and didn’t wish to be on the end of such hostility, so she offered a small smile to ease any tension.

“Bon soir,” Rosalie greeted her. “I was walking by and I couldn’t help but notice your less than pleased tones. What seems to be the matter?”

In that moment, looking at her gossiping handmaiden with exasperated eyes, Lisette felt she could not be more irritated with a person. That is, however, until a certain French princess stuck her nose into the Countess’ rooms. Bon soir. The french made Lisette’s eyes roll up, thinking that her ears would have to become used to such things if the girl before her ever wed Tristan. Their betrothal had been an undisputed fact, their marriage a coming reality that Lisette had resigned herself too, yet if the whispers were to be believed that alliance would soon crumble. 

Had she been less annoyed, Lisette might even feel bad for the Princess. 

“Not a thing.”, she chimed, throwing a barbed glare at her handmaiden, whom quickly picked up a pile of skirts and exited their company. It was then Lisette turned her attention to Rosalie. “Why? Is something the matter with you, your Highness?” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

“Of course I’ve heard such rumblings..”, Lisette answered, snipping at the person who so carelessly asked about the rumors surrounding Tristan’s betrothal to Rosalie.

 She’d always dreamed to hear such things, that the french alliance was crumbling and the man she loved may not have to marry the copper-haired siren he was promised to so long ago. But these rumors had her avoiding Tristan as well as the rest of court. Dropping one princess for another? That betrothal, should it come to fruition, would be a different burden entirely to the political prisoner of the Scots. That would no longer be a marriage of obligation, one orchestrated long before Tristan had the power to refuse, but this... well, this would be a choice made by the King of Scotland. One Lisette still was unsure she could forgive. 

“I’ve heard nothing from the King about it, so I have nothing to report.”, the girl replied, trying to keep the pain from her eyes. “If you’re so very curious, perhaps you should ask his Majesty yourself.” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

madelinestewart:

“I said I love your outfit.” Madeline beamed at her best friend, hoping Lisette wouldn’t comment on how distant the young princess had seemed lately. She’d avoided family, and to her Lisette was as good as family, because they were more likely to see that she wasn’t her usual self. Her smiles and jokes would fool anyone except those who knew her. Tonight, however, Madeline was very close to drunk, something that rarely happened. “You look like you’re floating.” 

At the compliment, Lisette looked down at her own sparkling gown with a smile. “Thank you.”, she said, chuckling a bit at the compliment, but grateful just the same. It had been a long time since Lisette had felt like something so bright and sparkling. First she was the prisoner, than a victim of the attacks, and then a self-imposed hermit as she spent her days locked away with Tristan after they’d finally admitted their feelings for one another. 

“Wait, Mads..”, Lisette began, searching the princess’ eyes, “How much wine have you had?” 

[captive-lisette-blog]

thesecond-son:

He tipped his head in acknowledgment of her thanks. “Well enough, I suppose,” He said with a shrug. He’d hidden behind his own mask of pretend for what seemed like for a while. “But it’s still early.”

“Oh yes? Then you must have a plan to find yourself some more fun?”, she asked, poking him in the ribs and scanning the crowd, “Perhaps in some newfound companionship?” Lisette tried to keep her tone light, despite the slight guilt she felt in ending their playful tryst. It was clear they were better off as friends, but she still wished for Thomas to find some small happiness the way she had in Tristan.”