Lady Rosalind Murray

“True strength is keeping everything together when everyone expects you to fall apart.”

[rosalindmurray]

Basics -

Name: Rosalind Murray

Family: House of Murray

Role in Society: Future Duchy of Marlborough

Sexual Orientation: Heterosexual

Date of Birth: February, 8th

Languages: French, Italian & Latin

Appearance -

Eye Color: Brown

Hair Color: Brown

Scars: Crescent Shape, Left Shoulder - When asked, it's from a simple riding accident in her younth. In truth, the injury occurred several years ago with raised voices behind closed doors, a sharp crash and shattered glass.

Traits -

Positive Traits: Loyal, Perceptive, Protective

Negative Traits: Guarded, Secretive, Sacrificing

About - 

Miss Rosalind Murray, Future Duchess of Marlborough

In the beginning, the Murray family was not merely noble, they were powerful. The family wealth once flowed as steadily, rivaled only by the Thornes', whose long-standing feud continues to this day. Given the circumstances and the families many secrets, they began to withdraw from society. Their estate grew quiet, appearances rare and correspondence selective. Rosalind Murray knows what it is like to grow up in the shadow of both a legacy and a secret. She is the only child of the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, and the sole heir to a title that rarely is meant to rest upon a woman's shoulders. From the start, her father's decision to secure the succession through her was as shocking but deliberate. Some say it is a declaration of faith in Rosalind, while others consider it a quiet act of defiance against those within her father's bloodline. Raised far from the scrutiny of London society, Rosalind's upbringing has been cultivated meticulously. Both her parents instilled in her what they knew best. From her father, he ensured she understood the weight of what she was to inherit and how to handle it. From her mother, she instilled a quiet compassion as well as all the expectations that a woman was to meet. She leaned music etiquette and language, while also learning about estate management and accounting. The Murray's family struggles, coupled with the circumstances of her inheritance left Rosalind with a rather lonely childhood. Beyond the staff, Rosalind's list of friends is rather short. Her closet confidant being a companion her parents had selected for her when she was an adolescent. Therefore, Rosalind often measures her words carefully and keeps others at a distance. Public affection does not come easy either. Although in private, her feelings run deep as she is fiercely devoted to her small inner circle. Her extended family is another story, especially her uncle. His interest in her inheritance has not gone unnoticed. Whether his true intention is to control, guide or undermine, Rosalind doesn't know. However, she believes the idea of keep your friends close and your enemies closer. She knows there are truths buried within her family's past - truths that could threaten the Murray's legacy. Rosalind has vowed to not allow that to happen. Not just for herself but for her father. Society of course only sees what Rosalind permits. She is the definition of an enigma; a wealthy heiress, a duchess-in-waiting, and a young woman who does not play by traditional rules. She does not outwardly fawn or chase attention, yet commands it. While it's obvious her parents have not pressured her to follow traditional measures; finding a suitor is the next logical step to both keep the family name and restore her families standing. Rosalind wants to believe she will find a match that includes both love and alliance but, the results have yet to be seen. So much is hanging in the balance this Season that could last generations. Rosalind knows she needs to weigh out every decision with care.

Likes -

Quiet Mornings

Reading & Writing Letters

Strategy Games

Order & Structure

Dislikes -

Performative Behavior

Being Underestimated

Chaos

Dishonesty

[thorneheir]

OPEN EVENT STARTER | to thetonhq LOCATION | GEM BALL

Music became livelier and an announcement made for one of the dances to start. He was looking forward the most to that one out of all the activities going on. The idea of the appraisal sounded fun but he wasn’t too sure if he wanted it. Since it was a more relaxed dance, he didn’t bother, like usual, of filling out a dance card and instead grabbed the hand of the person next to him and started to dance, thrilled that it was some of the commoners taking part and they seemed to outnumber the nobles and their children in the dance. “It’s easy!” He says to the person, “come on! Just like this,” and shows them the dance everyone around them was doing.

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind had not intended to be claimed by the dance quite so suddenly. One moment she stood at the edge of the room, simply observing. The next, her gloved hand was caught in his and she found herself drawn into the livelier current of the floor. Her brows lifted in a mild surprise, though she did not stumble. "So do you make it a habit of abducting unwilling partners into dances, then?" she asked, her tone smooth with a touch of amusement.

The dance was quicker than the more formal sets she had expected. It was less concerned with perfect limes and more with rhythm, laughter and movement. It was not difficult, but it was unexpected. Rosalind followed the steps after a moment, her silver-blue skirt shifting around her as the pendant from her necklace caught the light. "Iw ill admit, this is less dreadful than I anticipated." She paused momentarily. "Though I do how you realize that if I make a mistake, I shall be blaming you entirely."

[everlcsting]

"thank  you,"  he  murmured  around  the  butt  of  his  cigar,  taking  another  long  drag  before  exhaling  the  smoke  through  his  nose.  his  attire  will  reek  for  days  after  tonight,  the  scent  of  smoke  desperately  clinging  to  the  fabrics.  but  ramón  already  started;  it  would  be  pointless  to  stop  now.

so  he  tapped  the  ashes  over  the  balcony,  gaze  flicking  from  garden  to  newcomer  to  garden  again.  "bold,  yes.  but  you  must  admit,  it's  certainly  something  different.  how  many  of  these  have  you  attended  where  it  all  blurs  into  the  same  event  because  it's  the  same  conversation  and  dance  every  time?"

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind's gaze remained on the gardens for a few more moments. The so called diamonds moved like pal ghosts beneath the lamps, searching for flaw to polish into entertainment. "You make a far point," she admitted. Her tone was measured and composed. "It is certainly more memorable than another evening spent pretending the same four conversation are being had for the first time."

Her fingers brushed lightly near the moonstone pendant at her throat, the pale stone catching in the soft light. "Though I wonder if novelty is always an improvement," she continued glancing back to him. "There is something rather cleve in disguising scrutiny as entertainment. Everyone laughs until the attention turns toward them." The brunette paused, glancing back at the man. "Still, I suppose that is the nature of an evening like this. We were invited to present ourselves as jewels and everyone seemed determined to decide whether we are genuine. I imagine some guests will find that far less flattering that they expected."

[lorddominic]

Dominic was happy for a distraction. He’d seek out his appraisal soon, but he wasn’t in any rush. His gaze dropped to Rosalind’s pendant, the moonstone catching the candlelight. An amused smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “Was it intentional?” He asks, nodding his head to those who were passing judgement, “Should I hide my character before you join their ranks?” There was no hint of any defensiveness in his voice. Dominic was entertained by the idea. Someone as reserved as Rosalind first appeared to be, joining the Moonstone ranks of judgement. He knew what she’d meant. Everyone wanted to see those in power, inherited or not, be judged without fear. Rosalind had her own future, one that so many would want for themselves. Dominic had his fortune and his title, but he already had a good guess what others thought of him. His brothers reminded him of how unpleasant he could be to be around. Dominic didn’t need masked agents to tell him any of that.

“You’re not wrong,” he says, laughing a little. “I like to observe more than I like to be involved, but I think you learn more from that.” Years in the House of Lords had tempered him. Years of lessons from his grandfather had shaped Dominic. He knew it was better to observe than to engage, at least at first. Dominic inclined his head slightly toward her, with a look of mock caution written all over his face. “Do you dare to seek your own appraisal?” He asks, waiting for her reaction. Dominic wasn’t bold enough to seek his own publicly, but something between friends was different.

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind's gaze followed his toward the appraisers. The eight figures gleaming beneath the candlelight giving such judgment was somehow very ceremonial. "Intentional?" she echoed as her fingers brushed against the moonstone at her throat. There was a faint note of amusement in her voice, though her expression remained composed. "I chose moonstone before the Barnetts ever announced their theme. So either I am terrible fortunate or the evening has arranged itself around me." She paused with a soft smile on her face. "Though I would ot advise repeating that. I sounds exactly like the sort of thing Lady Whistledown would enjoy far too much." The brunette's attention returned to the masked figures. "Still, I suppose I cannot object too strongly. Moonstone is meant to reflect what is already present, not invent what is not." Rosalind's gaze fell back onto Dominic. "So if you are concerned about hiding your character from me, Lord Dominic, I fear you may already be too late." She gave the man a genuine smile. "Though I promise not to join their ranks just yet. I should hate to make the evening too easy for them. Not to mention, I do believe you promised me some conversation."

[wonderxrings]

"Mrs. Bruce now." She said with a smile she could not help. It had not been that long since her wedding and even with everything that had happened since, the truths that had come to light, Nathaniel still loved her. That mattered more than anything else in the world. Even if Sophia ended up hating her, even if she was turned away, she had her husband.

And potentially, someone her husband had known since childhood. She could certainly use all the friends in her corner that she could get. Besides, every lady could use a friend.

"You are Miss Murray, are you not? I have heard nothing but good things." Vitoria reached out to take Rosalind's hands in his. "Your congratulations are much appreciated, of course they are. You look beautiful tonight. What gemstone did you pick?"

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind's expression shifted at the correction, a faint smile touched her lips. "Mrs. Bruce," she repeated gently. "Of course. Forgive me." There was something quietly striking about the woman before her. She wasn't boastful, but had an unmistakable happiness about her. There was a warmth about her and that made Rosalind smile. She was glad her friend found someone that truly was happy with him.

When Vitoria took her hands, Rosalind allowed it. Her gloved fingers rested lightly in Vitoria's, her composure cautious but warm. "Yes, Miss Rosalind Murray," she confirmed. "And I am relieved to hear that only good things have reached you. London is not always so generous in what it chooses to repeat." Her gaze moved across Vitoria's with a gentle smile. "But Lord Nathanial has always been a man of good judgement. I imagine his choice speaks well enough for itself."

At the compliment, Rosalind's expression warmed a little more. "You are kind to say so. You look very happy tonight, which I think is far more becoming than any jewel one might wear." Her fingers traced the outline of the pendant around her throat. "I chose moonstone," Rosalind said. "Not because it's delicate, as some assume. Instead, it chooses when it reveals itself but only in the proper light."

[rosalindmurray]

CLOSED STARTER: Barnett Residence - The Gemstone Ball

@wonderxrings - Vitoria Wright

The Barnett residence had been transformed into a living jewel box. Rosalind spent part of her night watching which guests sparkled and which were still dull under the candlelight and glitter. Personally Rosalind had chosen moonstone. Her gown was pale silver-blue, almost white until the light caught it. She had wanted to make sure it encapsulated the very essence of the gem. Most who looked at her would see a sort of simpleness, it was only those who's gaze lasted a little longer who could see the cooler shimmer beneath. After a visit to the gardens, Rosalind had come back to the ballroom in silent grace. She wondered why anyone would put themselves through that sort of thing. It was simply begging for rumors to begin. Finding a quiet spot over to the side, Rosalind gazed across the room. It was then that she saw Miss Vitoria Wright. She recognized her by association as Lord Nathaniel Bruce's fiance. Rosalind approached with composed grace, "Miss Wright, I believe?" Her tone was calm and even. "We have not yet had the pleasure of being introduced, though I know Lord Nathaniel through my father." A small smile fell on her lips. "I thought it only proper I offer my congratulations myself, rather than allow society to speak of your happiness entirely without me."

[edgaroconnor]

Edgar watched her for a moment after that remark about uncles, the easy humor in him quieting just slightly. Not entirely gone - nothing ever seemed entirely gone with him - but softened around the edges. "Mm," he murmured. "That sounds suspiciously like experience speaking." His head tilted a little as he looked at her. "I think I preferred when we were blaming the boot."

But then she smiled again, and the lighter mood returned to him almost instantly, quick as flame catching. "Ah, there it is," he said warmly, pointing at her as though she'd just proven something important. "You did enjoy yourself. I knew it." He looked absurdly pleased by this discovery. "And to think society insists that men spend years learning conversation when apparently all one truly needs is a fountain and catastrophic decision-making." He took a slow step backward, hands lifting in surrender. "Though now I face a terrible dilemma, Miss Murray. If this was accidental, then I cannot promise to repeat it." A grin tugged crookedly at his mouth. "And if it was intentional, then I become deeply concerning company."

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind noticed the way his humor softened around the mention if her uncle and for a moment, her expression stilled. It was not cold, but it was careful. "Experience has a habit of speaking whether one invites it to or not," she replied. Her gaze drifted toward the street, before back to Edgar. She preferred the lightness of their previous conversation and didn't mind jumping right back into it. "Yes, I think I preferred the boot as well. It was far less complicated and far more willing to be blamed."

When he pointed at her enjoyment, Rosalind raised her brow slightly. "You seem pleased with yourself for discovering what I have not yet admitted." Even at her words, the faint smile remained. "I will concede that your method of conversation has been far more memorable than most." Pausing for a moment, the woman glanced at the fountain the man was just on. "I would not advise making catastrophe your primary social strategy. It may be effective, but I suspect it will be rather hard on your wardrobe." At his dilemma, Rosalind tilted her head slightly, studying him with quiet interest. "Perhaps the answer lies between the two. Accidental enough to remain charming but intentional enough that I should know better than to trust you near decorative stonework." Her voice was steady but amused. "As for being concerning company, I have met enough dull company in London for my entire lifetime. Concerning may prove to be an improvement."

[lavieenton]

|| open starter || Riya

|| LOCATION || The Barnett Gemstone Ball

She had seen many grand things. Imposing towers and ancient architecture. People of all ages, sizes, cultures. And yet, seeing the grandeur of the Barnett foyer and ballroom was something to tell. Jewels adorned the walls, reflecting off the marbled flooring. Everyone was dressed to the nines and glittered beneath the soft lighting of the room.

Riya was astonished. She felt as if she could fit right in alongside the uppity folks here in Mayfair. Approaching the drinks table, she poured herself a small glass of punch, trailing her eyes along the finger foods. A multi-layered tray filled with desserts reminiscent of gems. Emeralds, topaz, alexandrite, jade, opal, and others she could not quite name. They were much too beautiful to dare eat, though people were snagging them with a quickness.

Feeling someone beside her, she smiled sheepishly. She wasn't always bashful unless it truly mattered. "Is it obvious how much I am enjoying all of this?"

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind stood beside the drinks table, her gaze resting not on the punch, but on the jewel-like arrangement of desserts besides it. When the Barnetts committed themselves to a theme, they obviously didn't let up. All of it seemed excessive, although not without beauty. She had spent a lot of the night observing how most of the guest appeared determined to prove they belonged at such an event.

At Riya's question, the woman turned to her and noted the sheepish smile with quiet attention. "Perhaps a little, but I would not consider that a failing," she added. Her voice was calm and even as her gaze briefly turned over to the ballroom. "I imagine our hosts intended exactly this response. Admiration is rather difficult to avoid when one is placed inside a box of jewels."

[rosalindmurray]

CLOSED STARTER: Barnett Residence - The Gemstone Ball

@nexiliis - Nathaniel Bruce

It was no secret that the Barnett Gemstone Ball rewarded those who wished to be interpreted. Every jewel, every color, every choice of fabric was up for judgment. While she had clocked this prior to her arrival, it was now so much more apparent. Her own gown was pale silver-blue but luminous only when she moved, with her moonstone pendant resting at her throat. While it did not demand attention, she had certainly been receiving some. Rosalind had stepped away from the main congregation of guest when she noticed a familiar figure nearby. It was Lord Nathaniel Bruce. Rosalind knew him through her father. Lord Murray had spoken of the Bruce family and they had cross path's on more than one occasion. The two were certainly not strangers. There had been a time when seeing one Bruce twin, meant immediately looking for the other. Rosalind remembered that much, if only because the confusion they caused seemed to amuse her father. The brunette approached with quiet grace, her expression composed but warmer than it might have been with someone entirely unfamiliar. "Lord Nathaniel. It has been some time," she greeted. "I confess, I almost expected to see your brother near to make me second guess which gentleman I was addressing." Her gaze softened slightly. "Though I understand congratulations are in order. Your return has caused much interest from some."

[rosalindmurray]

CLOSED STARTER: Barnett Residence - The Gemstone Ball

@nexiliis - Kavika Das

Rosalind had learned rather quickly that the Barnett Gemstone Ball was designed to encourage observation. Every room seemed to invite it. Tonight nothing was as simple as it seemed. Even moonstone had become a declaration whether Rosalind had intended it or not. She had stepped aside near the edge of the room, allowing herself a moment away from the press of introductions and speculations. Her pale silver-blue of gown shifted softly beneath the light. It was then that her gaze settled on a young woman nearby. She was beautiful and sweet-faced, but Rosalind knew better than to trust something that was presented prettily. There was also something lively behind the woman's eyes. The brunette recognized her after a moment, she was Nalan's sister. That alone made her interesting. After a moment, Rosalind approached with a composed but pleasant expressiong. "Lady Kavika," she said warmly, though still with her usual restraint. "I had heard enough of you from brother who I have had the pleasure of crossing path's with. He speaks of his sisters with considerable devotion."

[lorddominic]

who: dominic & open! where: The Barnett House (event)

Everything about the Barnett’s success offended him. It wasn’t earned, but Dominic understood the reasons behind this show. By wearing masks adorned with jewels, the Barnetts were demonstrating to the world that they now had money. Dominic knew the truth. Just like the moissanite’s pretending to be diamonds, the Barnett’s were trying to put on a facade. Eight masked figures stood in the room, supposed to be Moonstone’s, rolling out their judgements of others. Dominic hadn’t gone for his appraisal yet; instead, he just stood and watched. His gaze followed others who sought their evaluations, trying to determine if his marchioness was in the crowd. It was difficult to hear, with all the sniggering while the masked people finished their speeches. It was exhausting. When someone approached, Dominic didn’t turn immediately. “Have you been appraised?” He asked, his eyes not leaving the judges. “Or did you come to offer an appraisal for me?”

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind had lingered near the edge of the Moonstone room longer than she had first intended. Perhaps it was due to the room being closely tired to her own chosen jewel or maybe it was because watching others endure their appraisals was far more revealing that the appraisals themselves. Some smiled too bright, while other protested too quickly. Some even mistook judgment for entertainment until it turned toward them.

At Lord Dominic's question, Rosalind's gaze shifted from the masked figure to him. "Not yet," she replied. Her voice was calm but had a hint of quiet amusement. "Though I suspect the room is waiting for me with some impatience."

Her moonstone pendant rested cool against her throat. The gem itself was pale and luminous beneath the candlelight. She stepped beside him, following his gaze toward the appraisers. "As for offering one for you, I would be careful. Mine would likely be far less theatrical than theirs." She paused for a moment, her expression composed with a bit of warmth showing behind her eyes. "Though perhaps more accurate. If I were to begin, I might say that you are a man who watches judgment more comfortable than he receives it." There was a small smile now on her face. "But I imagine you already knew that one."

[rosalindmurray]

CLOSED STARTER: Barnett Residence - The Gemstone Ball

@thornykitty

Rosalind had never cared for being watched, though had long since learned to endure it. The Barnett residence glittered as though someone had spilled the content of a royal jewel box across every wall, chandelier and polished surface. Society seemed eager to decide whether each guest had chosen their gemstone honestly or aspirationally. Moonstone had been Rosalind's choice. Not because it was delicate but because it didn't reveal itself all at once. She had no wish to outshine anyone. However wishing and achieving were rarely the same things. There were a handful of glances that followed her as she stepped aside from the main flow of guests. She accepted a drink from a passing footman before seeking a quieter place near the edge of the room. Rosalind's gazed across the room before settling on a young woman nearby who's attention lingered too long to be accidental. It was Miss Rowley. Or rather Miss Thorne now. Even if she wasn't a related by blood, didn't mean that the rivalry between her family and theirs wasn't ongoing. Rosalind remembered her vaguely from years before, though not well enough to claim familiarity. The brunette did not turn away. Instead, she met the gaze of the women. While remaining polite, there was a knowingness behind her eyes. "Miss Thorne," she greeted evenly. "It has been some time." Pausing for a moment, her expression was completely unreadable. "I imagine London has given us both rather different reasons to be looked at tonight."

[everlcsting]

soft  moonlight  streams  over  the  garden.  RAMÓN BESSETTE  leans  on  the  railing  from  the  balcony  above,  cigar  dangling  between fingers  as  he  watches  the  glimmer  of  the  diamond  masks  circling  their  prey.  in  the  next  breath,  the  swell  of  music  rings  louder,  and  he  straightens,  dark  gaze  landing  on  the  newcomer.  //  accepting  replies

"mind  shutting  the  doors  behind  you?"  the  night  has  dragged  onward,  and  exhaustion  clings  to  ramón's  shoulders.  but  his  eyes  remain  bright,  steady.  he  takes  a  puff  of  his  cigar,  smoke  billowing  around  him  as  he  exhales  through  his  nose.

"if  you're  seeking  a  moment  of  escape,  i'm  unsure  how  long  it  will  last."  he  tips  the  butt  of  the  cigar  over  the  rail  and  toward  the  garden.  "diamonds  are  on  the  prowl,  and  i  think  they  may  expand  their  hunt  up  here."

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind paused just inside the door, one hand still resting on the handle. The balcony was cooler than the rooms within and the night air was a welcomed contrast to all the glittering scrutiny of the ball. She had slipped out for only a moment, her moonstone pendant cool against her throat. At the request, her gaze shifted to the gentleman on the balcony. "As you wish," she replied as she closed the door softly behind her. The sound of the ballroom dulled at once, leaving only the faint movement of the gardens below.

The brunette did not step too close. She was mindful of both propriety and smoke, though she did not retreat either. "I had hoped the diamonds might be satisfied with the garden," she said, her tone even and calm. "Though I suppose it is in their nature to be persistent," She gazed over the railing for a moment. "A rather bold entertainment choice. Inviting guests to dress as jewels, then encouraging other to search for cracks. Don't you think?"

[youngoconner]

who: Anyone in the Ton where: The Barnett House(for the gemstone Ball)

Frederic took a few steps into the ball alongside his brothers. His clothes made him stand out- red and a bit flashy. He thought he looked rather good in the ruby-colored suit. What he hadn't expected was seeing a glimpse of Mary, and she was also wearing red, and because of that. It felt like his brother had him on a tight leash. He was not going to have a good time if this kept up

He only barely managed to slip away from him while he was stuck talking to some women about their daughter being a match for him. He could finally breathe now that he was alone. His eyes weren't forward, and he had glanced behind, making sure Dominic was far enough away. He bumped right into someone. He made a noise, and he glared at the other- He actually managed to bite his tongue and not say anything rude. He’s sure his glare spoke for him. “Hello to you too,” He said as he crossed his arms. He took this as a chance to speak with someone- maybe if his brother saw, he’d leave him be....maybe he could act a little less cross...

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind had not expected to be collided with quite so early in the evening. The Barnetts' residence was already overwhelming to the senses. It was a spectacle to navigate, even without a gentleman in ruby stepping directly into her path. It was only the beginning of her evening and she hoped this wouldn't be her only excitement. She steaded herself the practiced grace, one gloved hand briefly lifting before setting again at her side. Her gaze was calm and in control.

After a moment, she finally spoke. "Hello," she returned evenly. She took note of his crossed arms and the bit of a glare he had not shaken, "Though I confess I prefer an introduction before being greeted with suspicion." Her tone was filled with dry amusement. "I hope I have not interrupted your escape. You appear to be making a rather quick one." She paused fore a moment gazing at his ruby attire. Her own moonstone ensemble felt even more like the right choice in that moment. "Perhaps not discreetly as you intended though."

[dasxnalan]

There were those in London who would see Nalan fail, and at this present moment, Nalan was not sure if that excluded his own family. With Kavika’s new title and Riya’s beauty would no doubt catch the eyes of many in London, Nalan was the inconvenience of the Das family, the heir yet if his father had his way, everything would go to their daughters. Despite the education his parents insisted on, the bonds of friendship he cultivated was starting to become all for nothing. “Oh I do not know, the hills have their advantages but I suppose if you are not there then surely there is no point in going. If I may be so bold to say, I am glad to have disturbed your peace, I have not found anyone as easy to talk to as you.” Riya and Kavika were dear to Nalan’s heart, but while he only wanted the best for them, he was envious of them and the opportunities they had thus far. The family no longer felt as if they were in unison, with Kavika outranking them all and Nalan had a feeling that Riya was on the cusp of something great and all he had was to simply watch them succeed. “I am happy to play the part of the overprotective big brother if it means they will eventually have a happy future. I fear too many in England do not consider such things beyond what they can gain.” He was playing this all rather well, and in some part there was truth to his words. Nalan did want his sisters happy and settled, he just did not want them to outrank him in any sense but such a thing seemed unavoidable with Kavika’s rise and now combined with their wealth, Nalan knew he would be fending off vultures. 

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind watched him as he spoke, the easy charm of his words met with a quieter, more measured attention. His compliment earned the a faint smile and a softened expression. "How fortunate then that the hills have been spared of such a needless pursuit." She paused for a moment, her gaze lingering on him composed curiosity.

Being an only child and being raised as the heir to the family had been different than other's around her. She knew it was an anomaly that came with their own struggles. An example was this season and never truly knowing the intention of most of the potential suitors she had been introduced to.

Finally, she spoke again. "And I supposed I should take some pride in being preferable to retreat. Though I am not certain whether that speaks more highly of me or poorly of the hills."

At the mention of his sisters, Rosalind's expression grew thoughtful. She understood the burden of being looked at as something to be gained. A title, a fortune, a connection, a means to another end. "It is not unreasonable to want them to be seen clearly." Her tone was even but filled with much agreement. "If that is overprotective, then I suspect the word is oftened used by those who dislike being questioned."

Gazing back at the water, there was sense of calm for a moment before she turned her gaze back to him. "There is a difference between guarding someone's future and deciding it for them. I imagine your sisters are fortunate to have your devotion," she continued. "But perhaps love requires trusting that they may recognize happiness when it comes."

[prinxesssophia]

Such was the life of an heiress, or someone who was to receive a title of her own upon her marriage, a title that would bring lands to someone who simply said I do to a princess who had two failed engagements. Even the titles were not something to entice them into a lifetime commitment to her, but Sophia was still determined to be wed this season. “It does indeed make us stronger, but does that mean we must truly endure it? I, for one, would prefer if my future partner were not only interested in titles but it is a rare thing that people see beyond that.” Unlike Rosalind, Sophia’s future depended on her marriage and for now, everything else she had was at the mercy of her brother, though she did not think the king would cast her off, Rosalind Murray had her future secured. Spouse, or no spouse, Rosalind would be in charge of her own future and such a thing was intimidating to all, but Sophia could only see such strength in that. “Both of my brothers are married now, Arthur has Alisa and Nic ran off to Monaco to marry Princess Amandine Grimaldi so I am the only Godwin left to find someone.  My brother’s never made their feelings known about the commoners infiltrating our society, but I have found it more interesting than seasons past. What do you make of such a thing, will I see a handsome tavern-owner on your arm?”

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind listened with the careful stillness she perfected long ago. There was a bit of softness behind the women's eyes. It was a look of understanding that both women were not exactly the standard for everyone else's expectations.

"No," she said quietly. "I do not think strength means we must endure everything placed before us in the least." She gazed off for a moment. All around them titles, fortunes and ambitions moved about; all dancing to their own beat. "Though I do think it teaches us to recognize that others expect us to endure quietly." There was no bitterness behind her words, just observation.

"At times, I wonder whether people see beyond such things because they wish to or because they have no choice but to look closer." The brunette paused a moment. "Titles are convenient. Wealth is convenient. Land, influence, family name can ll be understood without ever troubling oneself with the person carrying it." Her expression was polite, but there was a bit of darkness behind her eyes. "I have little desire to be understood only in convenient terms."

As Rosalind regained herself, she thought about her uncle and the games that he seemed to enjoy playing. It was amazing what happened behind closed doors. She truly knew how rare it was for outsiders to truly understand anyone outside of themselves. With a faint smile, the brunette fell amused by Sophia's question. "A handsome tavern-owner?" she repeated. "How daring of you to image my rebellion would be so picturesque. Although, I must confess I have not made the acquaintance of one compelling enough to test that theory."

Returning her gaze to Sophia, she pursed her lips for a moment. "As for commoners, I am less shocked than other seem to be. Birth may open doors, but it does not guarantee wisdom or grace or character once one enters." She let a moment pass. "I think we would be silly to underestimate everyone."

[thorneheir]

His mouth often ran away with him and said things out of turn but he had always been like that even when he didn’t mean it as an insult. “I said it wrong!” I don’t mean to say you are boring but was wondering if that was your plan. You’re quite interesting, actually,” he muses with an impressed smile and looking her over, letting his eyes linger a bit more. “Ah, so it's all about balance then? I’ve never managed any of that so there’s no surprise it’s something I don’t understand!” A little attempt of self-deprication humour to cover his blunder. 

Her answer was intriguing, he thought maybe she was not saying who they were on purpose and had to admire it. It was the first thing people saw when they saw him and more often than not, it was their reasoning for approaching him. So he played into it and kept his own family's name away from the conversion too. That was easy to do. “That happens to everyone here and in those rooms you’ll have been discussed by people you don’t even know or will never meet.” Not something that bothered him too much. He preferred the infamous route. “Then I promise that you’ll never hear me being humble,” he chuckles with his hand on his heart to seal the promise. “I prefer infamy so use me for however you want, nothing will damage me. I promise you.” The words linger for a moment before he leans back. “There’s a ball coming up, are you attending?”

[rosalindmurray]

Rosalind watched him stumble over the correction and while she remained composed, there was a glimmer of amusement behind her eyes. "I did not think you meant to call me boring. However, it would make a bold choice for a first impression." Her gaze held with him for a moment before softening. "And yes, I supposed it is about balance. Not hiding from society entirely, but deciding what it is permitted to know."

As she paused, she found it refreshing that the man didn't seem to know much about her or at least he did well pretending he didn't. Most seemed to know her simply from what they could potentially gain. "I am aware but I find the thought strange that you are made familiar to people who remain strangers to you." Her toned remained even, though the concept was more tiring than it was flattering. "How reassuring, I should hate to think I had encouraged false modesty." Rosalind tone was that of dry amusement. "Careful," she warned as she studied him for a moment. "Offering oneself for use can become a dangerous habit."

At the mention of the ball, Rosalind nodded her head slightly. "The Barnetts' ball?" she asked, though she already knew. "Yes, I am expected to attend." Her gaze flickered over him with quiet curiosity. "And you? Or is a gemstone ball too structured a performance for someone who prefers his infamy unrehearsed?"