#Manoir de Thornolie

[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Salon Gretoise, Manoir de Thornwood: 31 Mai 1850, 16:45

Monseigneur Oliver: This is absurd! You move us back to le Manoir at the drop of a joyaux, yet you refuse to tell us why? I am tired of you and your secrets! Adelaide and I have a right to know what is going on!

La Reine Arabella: Oliver, s'il vous plaît. Calm down.

Monseigneur Oliver: Non. This game of shadows must end! The secrets must stop!

Le Roi Gaspard: I am doing what is required to protect this family!

Madame Adelaide: Protect us from what, Papa? Oliver is-

Le Roi Gaspard: Ça suffit!

La Reine Arabella: Gaspard-

Le Roi Gaspard: I will not stand here and be accosted at every turn by my children! I do not need to explain my actions to either of you until I deem it necessary to do so! We have returned to le Manoir for your safety, for all our safety, and that is all you need to know for now. And in order to ensure that safety, neither of you are to step foot off the grounds until I allow it!

Madame Adelaide: You cannot do that!

Le Roi Gaspard: I can, and I will, and I will not suffer any more of your retaliations! Now leave!

La Reine Arabella: Gaspard!

Madame Adelaide: Papa!

La Reine Arabella: Now!

Madame Adelaide: Ugh! [Storms off]

Monseigneur Oliver: There will come a day...when I have children of my own, and my own heir, you can rest assure I will never keep them in the dark.

Monseigneur Oliver: I refuse to be the coward you have shown yourself to be. [Leaves]

Le Roi Gaspard: [Sighs] Finally. Some peace and quiet.

La Reine Arabella: You could have handled that better.

Le Roi Gaspard: Oliver is becoming more and more impertinent.

La Reine Arabella: Can you honestly blame him? He has a right to know. They both do.

Le Roi Gaspard: I am aware, Arabella.

La Reine Arabella: Are you? You're driving a wedge between you and your children, Gaspard. If you cannot rectify the situation soon you may very well lose them both. I do not have to convey my feelings of the matter-

Le Roi Gaspard: Non. You do not.

La Reine Arabella: And I have followed along with your judgements, but I have followed along for as long as I am able. It is time. You must tell them. Solve the problem before the situation becomes irreparable.

Le Roi Gaspard: [Sighs] I will tell Oliver after the masquerade.

La Reine Arabella: And Adelaide?

Le Roi Gaspard: ...

La Reine Arabella: You will tell them both. I will allow you to wait until after the masquerade, but if they are not made aware of their ancestry by then I will not hesitate to do it for you.

Le Roi Gaspard: Very well.

La Reine Arabella: Now. I need to go over the final details for tomorrow with the staff before we prepare to leave in the morning. I suggest you take some time and reflect on your current situation.

Le Roi Gaspard: All I want to do is protect them Arabella, is that truly so terrible?

La Reine Arabella: I know you do, but keeping this from them is not the way to go about it.

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Manoir de Thornwood: 31 Mai 1850, 18:30

Madame Adelaide: He's impossible. Does he really expect us to sit here and do nothing?

Monseigneur Oliver: None of what he's doing makes any sense. But you can bet I'll uncover what is going on here. He cannot expect us to live our lives shrouded in darkness from within his precious little guilded cage.

Madame Adelaide: Not to mention-

Steward: Pardonnez-moi, vos atesses royales.

Madame Adelaide: Goodness!

Monseigneur Oliver: Who is this?

Footmen: Laurent, Monseigneur. I apologise for my appearance, but I am one of the footmen at Chateau de Clèrisseau.

Monseigneur Oliver: Clèrisseau?

Footmen: Oui, Monseigneur. I have a letter of utmost urgency for you. I was instructed to place it into your hands directly.

Steward: I apologise for the interruption, but he was most insistent.

Monseigneur Oliver: It's quite alright. Merci, Laurent.

Madame Adelaide: Make sure Laurent here is given some food and drink before he leaves. Something warm, Messier. With the storm it must not have been a thouroughly plesant journey.

Steward: Of course, Madame. Right this way, Monsieur.

Footmen: Merci, vos altesses royales.

Madame Adelaide: What is it? Is it from Eleanor?

Monseigneur Oliver: Non...it's from Ernest.

Madame Adelaide: Ernest?

Monseigneur Oliver: ...Eleanor's taken off.

Madame Adelaide: Quoi? Why? Where did she go?

Monseigneur Oliver: He doesn't know. He only says she was in distress and in quite a state when she took off.

Madame Adelaide: You have to go find her, Oliver. She'll catch her death if she's out too long in this storm!

Monseigneur Oliver: What about-

Madame Adelaide: I'll cover for you. Aller. Just go find her.

Monseigneur Oliver: Merci, Addy.

Madame Adelaide: Just go!

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

La Chambre de Monseigneur L'Epin, Palais de Thornolie: 1 Juin 1850, 10:00

Monseigneur Oliver: Entrez. [Quickly Stuffs Letter Into the Drawer]

La Reine Arabella: Might your dear Maman come and wish you joyeux anniversaire?

Monseigneur Oliver: [Sad Smile] How could I deny you such a request? [Stands]

La Reine Arabella: You do not sound to be in much of a receptive mood, mon cher.

Monseigneur Oliver: Pardonnez-moi, I have a lot on my mind is all.

La Reine Arabella: Well...I'm certain we can find something to distract you and make you more receptive. I will not stand to see such a frown from you today.

Monseigneur Oliver: [Chuckles] I suppose there is one thing I can think of...

La Reine Arabella: Oh?

Monseigneur Oliver: I...I asked Eleanor for her hand...and she accepted.

La Reine Arabella: Oh, Oliver! This is marvelous news! Was this the reason you left le Manoir last night when you were told otherwise?

Monseigneur Oliver: How did you-

La Reine Arabella: The staff hear and see all, mon cher. But I've not spoken of it with votre père. Now answer the question.

Monseigneur Oliver: [Sighs] I did go to see her, but not with the intention to propose...

La Reine Arabella: Quoi? What do you mean?

Monseigneur Oliver: Ernest wrote and had his letter delivered by one of the Clèrisseau footmen in a haste last night telling me Eleanor had run off-

La Reine Arabella: Quoi? She ran off?

Monseigneur Oliver: It seems that since the opera Eleanor has received several threatening letters.

La Reine Arabella: Does she know who's been sending them?

Monseigneur Oliver: Non. They've all been anonymous...she's severely distressed. I left to go find her and bring her home.

La Reine Arabella: How dreadful...I'm sure we can make inquiries to settle the matter. But I'm afraid it'll have to wait until after tonight.

Monseigneur Oliver: Merci, Maman. I only want for her to be at peace.

La Reine Arabella: En effet. But she's accepted your proposal!

Monseigneur Oliver: [Shy Smile] She has...

La Reine Arabella: That alone is cause for celebration! You have no idea how happy I am for the both of you. Though now you've made me late with my gift.

Monseigneur Oliver: Gift?

[Arabella Opens Small Ring Box]

La Reine Arabella: This belonged to ma mère. She gave this to me the day I married votre père, and said any woman who wears this ring will be brought eternal love and happiness.

Monseigneur Oliver: Maman...it's beautiful...

La Reine Arabella: I would love for you to have it.

Monseigneur Oliver: [Whispers] Merci...

La Reine Arabella: [Tears Up] Oh, look at me....I should go. There's still so much to do before the evening. Try not to worry about those letters. We will get to the bottom of it.

Monseigneur Oliver: I shall try, Maman.

La Reine Arabella: And Oliver?

Monseigneur Oliver: Oui?

La Reine Arabella: Joyeux anniversaire.

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Anticipation Peaks as Thornolian Royal Family Prepares for le Bal Masqué

Excitement and anticipation pervade the air as all of Thornolia eagerly awaits le grand masqurade hosted by the esteemed Famille Royale Thornolienne. Tonight, in a spectacle of splendor and tradition, le Monseigneur is poised to announce his engagement and reveal his chosen bride, a momentous occasion that has captivated the hearts and minds of all.

La Famille Royale, having returned to the resplendent Palais de Thornolie in the early hours from their brief sojourn at the tranquil Manoir de Thornwood, is now engrossed in preparations. The once serene corridors and stately chambers of le Palais have transformed into a hive of activity, with servants and attendants bustling about, ensuring every detail is perfected for the evening’s festivities.

Nobility from near and far are expected to grace le Palais with their presence later this evening, donning their finest attire and most elaborate masks, contributing to an atmosphere of mystique and grandeur. Le Bal Masqué promises an enchanting night of dance, music, and revelry, but it is le Monseigneur’s announcement that truly holds the country in thrall.

Speculation runs rampant throughout Thornolia as whispers of potential brides circulate amongst the populace. Will le Monseigneur select Mademoiselle Aubert, the one many have been keen to see stand by his side? Or Mademoiselle Valery, the quiet contender that grabbed our Monseigneur's attentions from the very beginning? The country is abuzz with these questions, each citizen holding their breath, hoping for a choice that will bring prosperity and happiness to their beloved Thornolia.

The gravity of this decision is not lost on le Monseigneur, whose contemplative demeanor in recent days has been the subject of much discussion. The choice of a future Madame la Reine carries with it not only personal significance but also profound implications for the future of Thornolia.

In a move we are certain will become a much loved tradition for generations to come, le Monseigneur and his chosen fiancée will not confine the announcement to the hallowed halls of le Palais alone. Following the grand reveal within the opulent ballroom, the couple will step onto the royal balcony to present themselves to the gathered throngs, ensuring that every citizen, from the highest noble to the humblest commoner, shares in this historic moment.

As the day unfolds, the streets of Thornolia buzz with eager anticipation. The vibrant marketplace hums with speculation, and children play games of imagined royal courtships, while their elders reminisce about past royal announcements and what tonight's might bring. All await the dusk, when le Palais de Thornolie will illuminate the night sky, signaling the commencement of le Bal Masqué and the revelation of the country's future queen.

This evening promises to be one of unparalleled grandeur and significance. As the bells toll and the hour of le Bal Masqué approaches, all of Thornolia stands united in hope and curiosity, ready to embrace their future Madame la Reine.

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Manoir de Liroux: 27 Mai 1850, 13:00

Mademoiselle Aurora: Oh! It seems I've been invited to tea by la Duchesse de Solomont this afternoon.

Duchesse de Liroux: You are unavailable.

Mademoiselle Aurora: [Tucks Letter into Dress] Maman, it would be rude to decline, especially when I have no prior commitments.

Duchesse de Liroux: Don't be absurd, Aurora. We are days away from le Monseigneur's announcement. You will secure his proposal, and in order to do that you must focus on nothing else. You have no time for tea or any other frivolous activities.

Mademoiselle Aurora: [Scoffs] You are delusional if you believe he will propose to me.

Duchesse de Liroux: I do not suppose your defiance has anything to do with your little rendezvous the other day with a certain Marquis during le Prix de Thornolie?

Mademoiselle Aurora: I...I don't know what you mean...

Duchesse de Liroux: Do you really imagine me a fool? Lest you forget I am always watching you, so imagine my surprise when I spotted you, alone, without le Monseigneur on your arm and instead wrapped around-

Mademoiselle Aurora: Maman-ah!

Duchesse de Liroux: [Grabs Aurora by the Neck] Now, you listen, and you listen well.

Mademoiselle Aurora: Maman, s'il vous plaît!

Duchesse de Liroux: I will not see you tarnish this family's name and reputation. You think sneaking around will save you from your fate? Don't make me laugh. You will marry le Monseigneur. End of story. [Throws Aurora to the Floor]

Mademoiselle Aurora: [Cries] Maman...non....

Duchesse de Liroux: I'll allow you to accept this invitation, but I suggest you use this opportunity to finally cut ties with le Marquis. If you don't, you will suffer consequences unlike which you can imagine. [Leaves]

Marquis de Liroux: Aurora...

Mademoiselle Aurora: Go away....

Marquis de Liroux: Shhh....I'm right here. You'll be alright.

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Royal Family Returns to Ancestral Home Before Masquerade Ball

La famille royale has made a surprising return to Manoir de Thornolie for a brief respite from their royal duties. This unexpected move comes just days before the highly anticipated bal masqué, where Monseigneur L'Épin is set to announce his choice of bride after months of courting during la saison.

The return to Manoir de Thornolie, a picturesque estate nestled in the heart of the Thornolian countryside, has sparked curiosity and speculation among the public and royal watchers alike. With the bal masqué scheduled to take place at le Palais in only three days, many are questioning the reasoning behind this sudden retreat. Is there something more happening behind the scenes, or is it simply a chance for la famille royale to relax before the grand event?

However, the primary focus remains on the forthcoming announcement from Monseigneur L'Épin. The nation is abuzz with anticipation and excitement as speculation over his choice of bride reaches fever pitch. The two leading contenders for the prince’s heart appear to be Mademoiselle Aurora Aubert and Mademoiselle Eleanor Valery.

Mademoiselle Aubert, known for her grace and charm, has been a favored candidate among many royal enthusiasts. Her poise and dedication have won her considerable admiration, and many believe she would make an excellent future queen. On the other hand, Mademoiselle Valery, who has captured the hearts of many with her quiet intelligence and beauty, is rumored to have long held Monseigneur L'Épin's affections. The two have often been seen together throughout la saison, fueling speculation that she may be the one he ultimately chooses.

Despite the clear favoritism shown by different factions of the populace, uncertainty remains. Monseigneur L'Épin has been seen courting both Mademoiselles Aubert and Valery throughout la saison, leaving the public guessing. Could there be another contender entirely, or is le Monseigneur himself still undecided?

La famille royale has remained tight-lipped about the le Monseigneur, adding to the air of mystery surrounding the upcoming bal masqué. While some see the retreat to Manoir de Thornolie as a chance for le Monseigneur to reflect and finalize his choice, others wonder if there are underlying issues or preparations taking place away from the public eye.

As the day of the bal masqué approaches, excitement and tension continue to build. The nation eagerly awaits the moment when Monseigneur L'Épin will step forward and reveal his future bride, a decision that will undoubtedly shape the future of the Thornolian monarchy.

For now, all eyes remain on Manoir de Thornolie, where la famille royale is ensconced in the tranquility of their historical home. The nation holds its breath in anticipation of the grand revelation that is sure to come, with the hopes and dreams of Thornolia hinging on the choice of one man’s heart.

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Salon d’Épitoise, Palais de Thornolie: 28 Mai 1850, 21:15

Duc de Clèrisseau: I think we haven't a choice, Gaspard. We must start making preparations for your safety, before the CDS realise we know of their correspondence.

La Reine Arabella: Henri is right. We must act.

Le Roi Gaspard: And what is it you suggest we do?

Duc de Clèrisseau: I believe the first step is to have you all return to Manoir de Thornolie. Le Palais is too public of a spot now that it's finished, and could easily be a target.

Duchesse de Clèrisseau: With la Masquerade only a few days away though, they cannot stay away from le Palais forever.

La Reine Arabella: We'll make it work.

Le Roi Gaspard: [Sighs] Very well. I'll make the arrangements to leave first thing tomorrow morning. Arabella can stay behind to finish her preparations for la Masquerade and then arrive after.

La Reine Arabella: I suggest you take Oliver and Adelaide with you. We cannot risk their safety.

Le Roi Gaspard: En effet. Perhaps it'll be wise to keep them from leaving the Manoir as well.

Duc de Clèrisseau: Quite right.

La Reine Arabella: Did Connier have anything else to report while he was here?

Duc de Clèrisseau: Unfortunately not. His man is still on the lookout to unearth more information on the death of the messenger.

Le Roi Gaspard: I really hoped we were passed this.

La Reine Arabella: Once la Masquerade is over and Oliver is engaged, we must pull all our focus toward the matter. We simply cannot relive the terror inflicted upon us by the CDS all those years ago.

Duchesse de Clèrisseau: Arabella is right. If Connier is correct in assuming this letter is indeed correspondence between members of the CDS we must do all we can to extinguish their efforts...especially when we have no idea what they are planning.

Le Roi Gaspard: One can only imagine...

Madame Adelaide: Those two really are perfect for each other...

Marquis de Clèrisseau: ...

Madame Adelaide: [Sighs] I don't see why you are so adamant to deny it.

Marquis de Clèrisseau: They'll never survive it. They'll grow to hate each other-

Madame Adelaide: I see...so you have no faith in either of them.

Marquis de Clèrisseau: Don't be absurd, Addy. You know as well as I-

Madame Adelaide: What I know is you are a man scared of commitment . You shun others who search for it because the very idea of pairing yourself with another is somehow abhorrent to you. But just because you shun the idea, does not give you the right to deprive others of it. Especially your own sister.

Marquis de Clèrisseau: I have no idea what you're talking about.

Madame Adelaide: Is that so? Then tell me this, Ernest. How many times are you going to call on Mademoiselle Fleury and not offer her a proposal? How many times must she endure such indecisive behaviour? It's cruel, Ernest.

Marquis de Clèrisseau: ...

Madame Adelaide: I thought so. Leave them alone, Ernest.

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Manoir de Liroux, 18 May, 1850, 12:30 PM

Mademoiselle Aurora: Oh, Maman what do you think? I believe Eloise has finally perfected my hair.

Duchesse de Liroux: Postitively regal. We shall have her recreate this for the Prix de Thornolie.

Mademoiselle Aurora: En effet. Oh, I do wonder what Monsieur de Rousseau will think of it.

Duchesse de Liroux: And why would you bother yourself with his opinions?

Mademoiselle Aurora: He sent me a letter a few days ago asking to escort me, and I accepted.

Duchesse de Liroux: How dare you. What gives you the right to accept him when you are set to accompany the Monseigneur?

Mademoiselle Aurora: Quoi?

Duchesse de Liroux: You need not worry yourself. You were invited by Madame la Reine herself, and you will not insult this family by rejecting her. I will not hear another word about it, and you will send word to le Marquis and reject him.

Mademoiselle Aurora: Maman, non! I gave him my word days ago! I cannot reject him now!

Duchesse de Liroux: Ça suffit! You will write to him and reject his advances, and you will finally focus on hooking the Monseigneur!

Mademoiselle Aurora: I refuse! Why must you continue to push the matter when the Monseigneur's mind is already made up? Le Marquis is more than suitable, and a match any normal maman would be glad to have for their daughter!

Duchesse de Liroux: My reasons are none of your concern. You will do as I say and accompany the Monseigneur. End of discussion.

Mademoiselle Aurora: Non.

Duchesse de Liroux: Excusez-moi?

Mademoiselle Aurora: I will not be used by you or Papa for some slight you refuse to explain or let go of. I will not accompany the Mon-

[Emilie smacks Aurora]

Duchesse de Liroux: You will not disobey me! Write to le Marquis. Reject his request. Or you can be certain I will do it for you. And you will not like the method at which I go about it.

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Manoir de Clèrisseau: 5 May 1850, 10:30

Palais de Thornolie, 5 May 1850

Mon adorable amie,

I understand you will be less than receptive upon receiving this letter. Regardless I find I must write to extend the most heartfelt of apologies. My actions yesterday were far beyond appropriate and I am ashamed. Even more ashamed that such actions placed you in such a position. I do hope with time you will be able to forgive me.

During my ride this morning I spent a great deal considering your words from yesterday. In all honestly it is the only thing I can focus on. I know how much you despise my displays of overbearing jealousy (I have not forgotten your rebukes of Christmas last), but when it comes to you I lose all sense of reason. I say this not as an excuse, for I speak only truth. I will endeavour to be better, if only so you will not be forced to consider the unbearable decision to part ways. I would never be able to bear it.

Please allow me to opportunity to rectify my horrid mistake. It is all I hope for when I have upset you so immensely.

Je vous embrasse,

Oliver

Marquis de Clèrisseau: Anyone of interest? 

Mademoiselle Eleanor: [Scoffs and Puts Away Letter] Certainly not. 

Marquis de Clèrisseau: Whatever is the matter? 

Duchesse de Clèrisseau: Ernest, leave her be. Not all of Eleanor’s affairs are your business. 

Marquis de Clèrisseau: Au contraire. I believe that as her brother-

Duchesse de Clèrisseau: Do you not have better ways to spend your time this morning? 

Marquis de Clèrisseau: My, my...What has the two of you in such a mood-

Steward: A caller for Mademoiselle Vallery, Madame. 

Mademoiselle Eleanor: Quoi? 

Duchesse de Clèrisseau: Who is it, Baudelaire?

Steward: Le Vicomte de Vignieu, Madame. 

Duchesse de Clèrisseau: Well...this is certainly a surprise. Let him in, Baudelaire. Ernest, I’m certain you can find something better to do with your time. 

Marquis de Clèrisseau: Perhaps...perhaps you’re right, Maman...

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Jardin de Périciennes, Manoir de Thornwood: 23 April 1850, 14:00

Mademoiselle Maybelline: Are you sure everything is alright? 

Madame Adelaide: Of course it is. 

Mademoiselle Maybelline: Ah, so I see we’ve decided to go with irritated and elusive this afternoon

Madame Adelaide: And you’ve chosen insistent and annoying. 

Mademoiselle Maybelline: Do you really believe I will let the matter fall to the wayside? Just save us both the trouble and tell me what’s wrong. 

Madame Adelaide: It’s not like it should matter. I’m not being presented, it’s as simple as that. 

Mademoiselle Maybelline: Oui...I had heard something about that, but why-

Madame Adelaide: “Oliver’s future must come first, Adelaide, surely you can understand why that is.” Honestly...I understand Oliver is the heir to the throne, but Oliver’s mind is already made up, and all my father is doing is depriving me of my own happiness for the sake of pomp and circumstance!

Mademoiselle Maybelline: Oh? Does that mean what I think it means? 

Madame Adelaide: Not yet...though he did say he had plans to speak to Papa....but...since I am not to be presented...

Mademoiselle Maybelline: He cannot. Oh Addy, that’s dreadful. I’m so sorry. But surely knowing him as well as we do, he will wait for you. 

Madame Adelaide: How can you be so certain? 

Mademoiselle Maybelline: You and I both know he completely adores you. 

Madame Adelaide: I suppose...

Mademoiselle Maybelline: How can you sound so unsure? Just a few weeks ago I was having tea with Violette and the Comtesse Douairière who were discussing the very subject. 

Madame Adelaide: Glad to hear my life has made it to the tongue of Thornolia’s premiere gossip. 

Mademoiselle Maybelline: The word is out, Addy. People know of his intentions, and even if they have yet to uncover his identity, they all seem to recognise how much he adores you. 

Madame Adelaide: I no longer wish to continue this conversation. 

Mademoiselle Maybelline: Addy-

Madame Adelaide: Assez.

Mademoiselle Maybelline: [Sighs] Very well. 

Madame Adelaide: I don’t suppose there is a mondamoiseau who has caught your attention?

Mademoiselle Maybelline: Don’t be ridiculous. 

Madame Adelaide: You do realise if you do not make a decision, your parents will? Surely there is someone out there you could find suitable?

Mademoiselle Maybelline: Perhaps...

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Manoir de Thornwood: 13 April 1850, 13:00

Comte de Montavin: Someone is late. 

Monseigneur Oliver: And someone is really becoming a nuisance.

Comte de Montavin: Come now, I arrive here, on time and ready for our weekly sparring match, and I’m told by your valet you went riding instead? Have you forgotten me? Forgotten all the fun we used to share? 

Monseigneur Oliver: You are really laying it on think, cousin. 

Comte de Montavin: Oh! Pardonnez-moi! How could I forget? Today’s the day!

Monseigneur Oliver: Quoi?

Comte de Montavin: It all makes sense now. I realise now exactly what kept you from our weekly routine. 

Monseigneur Oliver: Now you’re simply being-

Comte to Montavin: A certain...mademoiselle...springs to mind-

Monseigneur Oliver: Ça suffit!

Comte de Montavin: I...mon frère...are you-

Monseigneur Oliver: I’m fine. 

Comte de Montavin: Oui...I can see that. I take it she’s yet to give you an answer?

Monseigneur Oliver: [Sighs] You assume correctly.

Comte de Montavin: I see...

Monseigneur Oliver: I knew this would happen. She’s being incredibly evasive. 

Comte de Montavin: Le bal is still weeks away. She still has plenty of time to give you an answer. 

Monseigneur Oliver: I only wish I could know what she’s thinking, Gaston...

Comte de Montavin: Surely you have nothing to worry about. She is bound to say yes. Just give her some time. 

Monseigneur Oliver: If only I could be so sure...

Comte de Montavin: Mon frère-

Monseigneur Oliver: Assez. Are you simply going to stand there, or are you ready to spar? 

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Salon Courseau, Manoir de Thornwood: 12 April 1850, 15:30

La Reine Arabella: Make sure you’ve returned in plenty of time for dinner tomorrow evening. I’m putting together a small dinner to celebrate Eleanor’s birthday.

Le Roi Gaspard: Oh? And why this sudden addition to my already busy schedule?

La Reine Arabella: I thought it would be a nice gesture, what with all Charlotte’s help planning the saison. Not to mention-

Le Roi Gaspard: [Sighs] Oui, very well. 

La Reine Arabella: Whatever is the matter with you this afternoon?

Le Roi Gaspard: Henri and I have had some...difficult conversations of late. 

La Reine Arabella: Oh? And what are the topics of these conversations?

Le Roi Gaspard: Informing our children of their heritage. 

La Reine Arabella: I see...Well, I do not have to tell you where I stand on the matter. 

Le Roi Gaspard: Indeed you do not.

La Reine Arabella: I don’t suppose Henri has managed to persaude you to the side of reason? 

Le Roi Gaspard: No. 

La Reine Arabella: [Sighs] It’s time, Gaspard. They’ve been in the dark long enough. 

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Bureau de Thornwood, Manoir de Thornwood: 23 April 1850, 12:30

Le Roi Gaspard: Do not forget you and I will leave for the palais first thing tomorrow. I trust you will remember your obligations, Oliver. These next few days are vital, and whether you like it or not you will be the focus of everyone’s attention.

Monseigneur Oliver: Oui, mon père. I am aware. 

Le Roi Gaspard: I also expect to see you to making an effort during the bal blanc. One cannot be certain of a decision as important as this without first seeing all that is on offer. And there will be much on offer, I can assure you. 

Monseigneur Oliver: [Sighs] I will do as you ask, but you should know it is highly unlikely my mind will be swayed. Eleanor is-

Le Roi Gaspard: Stop acting naive. I find it beyond impossible for you to be so certain, to be persauded so easily by the first mademoiselle to cross your path. If you do not make all the necessary efforts-

Monseigneur Oliver: You’ll what? 

La Reine Arabella: My, my. What is all this fuss about? I could hear you both arguing from down the hall. 

Monseigneur Oliver: It’s nothing, Maman. [Leaves]

La Reine Arabella: Where you going? Oliver? 

La Reine Arabella: Gaspard? 

Le Roi Gaspard: That son of yours is far too impulsive. How can he be so certain? He’s barely even looked!

La Reine Arabella: Ah...

Le Roi Gaspard: He gets that from your side of the family. 

La Reine Arabella: Oh, no. That stubborn impulsiveness he inherited from you. And while he may be impulsive, he does see reason. He will do as we ask, and he will make the right decision when the time comes. 

Le Roi Gaspard: Will he? [Long Silence] Arabella? 

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Manoir de Clèrisseau, 20 April 1850

Mon cher Oliver,

I must confess that despite agreeing to your ardent requests, I am filled with trepidation. Just last night I was plagued by a dream where the public did nothing but shout hateful things at me for standing by your side. The words they hissed at me…I cannot bring myself to even repeat them. I understand it was only a dream, yet I simply cannot shake those hateful whispers. Have I made a mistake in my saying yes? It certainly appears so…

Regardless of my decision I hope you will still remember your duty. The coming weeks are bound to present you with new opportunities, and it is important you do not allow anything to cloud your judgment. The people of Thornolia deserve to have a future Monsieur le Roi who is open to the possibilities presented before him. You cannot allow your outlooks to be short-sighted, especially in your position.

I say these words with both love and urgency. While I dream of how our lives could be, and the happiness that would sure follow, I am certain I could never forgive myself if I kept you from someone who could better serve at your side.

Je vous embrasse,

Eleanor V.

Manoir de Thornwood, 21 April 1850

Mon adorable amie,

Your words trouble me. How could you imagine I would ever allow anyone to harm you in any way? Please pay no head to these dreams. They are nothing more than anxiety-ridden visions and should anyone question your presence by my side they can take up their quarrels with me. Then will they know there is no one better to stand beside me, even if you have yet to realise this yourself.

I will forever endeavour to do as you ask, but do not believe even for a moment there is another out there who has such a keen insight as you. The fact you make sure to remind me of my duty proves no one else on Earth is more suited for me. Yet another of the many reasons I adore you.

I am counting down the days, hours, and minutes until I see your stunning image once more, embraced in my arms at the ball.

Je vous embrasse,

Oliver

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

“You cannot be serious…”

“Henri, s'il vous plaît, quiet down.”

“You cannot seriously be suggesting-”

“I am.”

“Gaspard, you must reconsider, honestly.”

“I see no reason to.” 

“What about when Oliver becomes Monsieur le Roi?”

“When the time is right, I will tell him.”

“And if you’re dead? What happens then?” 

“I simply cannot bring myself to tell them, Henri. It’s been forty years. Surely we can all move forward and forget.”

“Even if we do, they need to know their heritage. Why deprive them of that?”

“There is nothing left of their heritage. It’s gone. Thornolia is all they have now.”

“I urge you to reconsider and tell them about Th-”

Monseigneur Oliver: Adelaide, what are you doing? 

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[theroyalthornoliachronicles]

Monseigneur Oliver: Addy, I don’t-

Madame Adelaide: [Whispers] Quiet or they’ll hear you!

Duc de Clèrisseau: I hope you realise how irrational this course of action is. You’re only going to make matters worse for yourself and everyone around you. 

Le Roi Gaspard: Thank you for your unwavering support, Henri. 

Duc de Clèrisseau: How do you expect to continue keeping this from them?

Le Roi Gaspard: Je ne sais pas...I do not want to trouble them unecessarily. What we did all those years ago...what we were forced to do...they do not need to shoulder that burden. 

Duc de Clèrisseau: Gaspard...we’ve been friends for as long as I can remember, and I understand why you’re doing this...but it is not the solution...we cannot hide this from them. Not anymore. 

Le Roi Gaspard: Non. Thalia is our burden. A burden we must carry alone. 

Duc de Clèrisseau: [Scoffs] This is absurd! We may still be in hiding from the rest of the world, but the danger has passed! They deserve to know the truth! The full truth! Not the fairytale version you’ve passed off as reality for the last few decades! Thalia is just as much a part of them as it is for You and I! How can you say-

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