[ the queen's courier (of sorts) arrives at the King's chambers with a letter - but based on his lack of urgency, he's clearly been instructed to leave the note whenever it's convenient.
and so it goes. ]
Your Majesty,
I hope this note finds you well. Thank you again, for keeping me company and taking such good care of me.
If it wouldn't be too much trouble, might it be possible for us to create a standing appointment to spend time together on a monthly basis? I apologize for the selfish nature of my request, but I enjoyed our time together and would appreciate the chance for conversation when I'm not otherwise preoccupied.
Texts and records are excellent sources of information, but learning from someone with excellent memory isn't an opportunity everyone gets to have. I would be honored to hear more of your stories.
Sincerely, Margaery.
Edited (dw cramping my STYLE) 2025-02-15 02:21 (UTC)
( the message is received with no small measure of surprise and is responded to in an elegant yet casual hand, )
Margaery,
As of late, I have been rereading the autobiography of King Nacogdoches. If the name is unfamiliar, he was the second king under which I served. Ever since his death, the shadow of his great reign has loomed over every succeeding ruler. Including me. Rather than resist it as others have tried, I have chosen to embrace it and emulate my kingship after his. It is only now, however, that I realize that I should emulate my conduct as a husband after him as well.
Two centuries later, my old friend is still teaching me.
So while I applaud your concern about my busy schedule, it can never be so busy that we must make appointments to spend time together. Efforts must be made, especially on my part. Henceforth, you shall receive a copy of my daily schedule from my private secretary, Madam Jacobine Affrรฉ. Additionally, you have permission to come and go from my offices as you please. Most of my time is spent there. While my days are often long and hectic, I need you to know that you are as important as any meeting.
Attach your response to his collar and speak "Da-moy A-rack-is."
๐
Edited (changed the secretary's name) 2025-02-15 16:57 (UTC)
[ Arakhis is sent back with no small amount of faint stains and ruffled fur on his head, as if someone kissed him with lipstick applied and then frantically attempted to remove the evidence. ]
Your Majesty,
I have yet to reach the second autobiography, but I look forward to reading about King Nacogdoches and learning about his great achievements.
And thank you. It is no small thing that you would permit me to access your schedule and your offices, even if you see it otherwise. I promise not to abuse this privilege - not that my studies will leave me much time to do so. I find myself grateful that at the very least, my horseback riding skills still remain useful.
Your dog is as handsome and majestic as you are, and ever so sweet! It's been too long since I've felt a wet nose press into the palm of my hand for affection and I will be smiling all day because of it. Please send him to me more often if you can bear the separation. How old is he, and does he have a favorite treat?
You are starting with his father then, King Amboise?
( the book is perhaps tolerable if the reader is unaware of the lies and flimsy defenses. nacogdoches was a good king, but his father was the opposite. on this, however, constantin shall remain silent. he will forever be indebted to king amboise for granting his people sanctuary. however supercilious his motivations were. )
The Duke Des Hauteurs gifted him to me from his prized litter barely a year ago. Arakhis is partial to apple slices with peanut butter. And if you are partial to him, he is welcome to stay with you as often as you'd like. The company he finds there will be much lovelier than any here.
Yes, that is correct. I'm already forming some thoughts, but I would like to finish it completely before I discuss it with you. Autobiographies of each emperor is a most elegant idea, especially as it captures their present thoughts with a historical angle. I very much look forward to reading yours. In fact, I had to take a moment when I realized our union might be mentioned.
As will Arakhis, no doubt. I'm sure he and I will become very good friends with our similarities. For instance, while I resolve to nurture the same elegant restraint that so many in your court have, our kindred restless spirits will have the most fun when engaged in playful exercises. You're always welcome to join us if you ever see us, of course.
If your thoughts remain insatiable, might I recommend Lord Angus Matthiessen's book for a complete picture of the man? As many of King Amboise's accomplishments were before my time, I can provide little insight.
( his most notable accomplishment was to act as the shining illustration of unchecked power and managerial incompetence. it was under his reign that ornefluer transitioned from a government where the ruler had ultimate authority to its present one where the people are the ultimate authority. in a way then, king amboise proved to be one of the most significant rulers in ornefluerian history. )
It will be another six years before you read anything of our union. Chapters are added every decade.
It gladdens my heart to hear that Arakhis will have another friend to play with. Despite his attempts to hide it, I know he gets very little joy accompanying me to countless meetings and inspections. And, though he receives plenty of attention here, there, and everywhere, none comes with the promise of stained kisses.
๐
Edited 2025-02-17 05:47 (UTC)
should we say doggo delivero in perpetuity from here on out HAHA โ
Of course. If anything, thank you for the recommendation. I wouldn't dare make any assumptions, but there do seem to be some aspects to King Amboise's autobiography that feel like almost unreliable narration? It may be my own bias - the way he writes reminds me of the way they write about certain kings back home.
[ like the current one, for instance. he's got plenty of embellishments listed under his name that he hardly deserves. ]
Will I be allowed to send my family a copy of your autobiography even if it isn't finished?
I think you underestimate how much Arakhis loves you. I'm sure that through all those meetings and inspections, all he was thinking was how happy he got to be by your side. I'll be more than content to be second in his affections, by virtue of how much we'll play together.
And I do apologize for the stains! I've decided to limit my kisses to evenings as I retire to bed. Speaking of, the nights continue to be sharply cold - please take care to stay warm.
( each passing mention of westeros builds in his mind a land of savagery, violence, and insanity. he is glad margaery will never again experience that. )
Margaery,
Volosko willing, it will be several centuries before my final chapter is published. Nevertheless, you are welcome to send your family whatever you wish. Monsieur De Philippe mentioned your father greatly enjoyed the champagne, so perhaps a crate of that along with the book?
( an edited version of the book, of course. to avoid panic and fear, the king ordered a strict diet of information about their country and the continent. no mention of their technological advancements or the magic that permeates the other countries. no fraternization from the sailors who travel to westeros. as far as that continent knows, ornefluer and the other countries of this continent are no different. )
Please do not make yourself uneasy. I find it rather amusing that he returned with lipstick on his fur where your lips pressed against him. Out of exuberance, I hope and imagine.
I appreciate your concern for my well-being in the cold, Margaery, but any concern should be reserved for you. This will be your first winter in Ornefluer โ indeed, in a place where freezing conditions are nearly constant. Though it has happened only a few times in my memory, in the dead of winter the water surrounding the capital can freeze over to the point that one could walk on it with very little danger of falling through. Arakhis is a very warm and comfortable bed partner if you wish to have him. Or if the weather is too cold for your temperament, the western states might be more agreeable.
That, however, is a discussion for another time. We have yet to reach the halfway point of autumn. Perhaps you will develop a regard for the warmth that comes with the cold.
[ gods. centuries. sometimes the magnitude of time weighs on her, sometimes she's successful in putting it away, like a book she shouldn't be reading hidden under her bed. ]
Your Majesty,
You are so very kind and thoughtful. It makes me more eager than ever to reach King Nacogdoches' autobiography, if even you feel he is the paragon of virtue. I know my family will appreciate the gestures - and yes, particularly my father, who enjoys his drink even more now that he only has to worry about my brother's marital prospects.
[ she wants to ask if he cares whether they have girls or boys, if he has an idea of how many he wants, but that's neither here nor there for now. ]
There were lots of dogs and cats back home, in Highgarden, because there was much more freedom there, in both space and manners. I wish I could show you how beautiful it is, although I'm sure Monsieur De Philippe has given you a full report. Arakhis reminds me so much of our friendliest pups.
I only fear that if I keep him from you for too long, the monotony of your days will increase, as all you will see are solemn faces and the tops of bowed heads. You are a king, but you are more than that as well. However, you are correct to assume that I have never experienced a winter like Ornefluer's. If you truly don't mind missing his company during the nights, I would like to have him to keep me warm.
But I am resolute to embrace the cold, especially as our meetings will undoubtedly bring me warmth as well.
I know the difficulty of leaving home, but someday you will bask in the beauty of Highgarden again. In the meantime, I commend you for your resilience and skill. The culture and customs of Ornefluer differ from those of Westeros, yet you have adapted swiftly. On behalf of my people, please accept my gratitude for your diligence and thoughtfulness in learning.
All I see are solemn faces and bowed heads until I kneel to their level and shake them from their deference to remind them that I am a man. Please do not suppose that their faces are all like General Gaboriault's or that their heads are all like Monsieur Reubens's. Once you know them, the charm and affability in their expressions are easier to recognize.
Anyway, the years have been fortifying enough that I can bear any solitude with alacrity.
As will many of the joys that come with the change in weather. A feeling of reflection steeps into the people this time of year. It's a time to study past mistakes, a time to reminisce about the triumphs, and a time to hope for better in the coming year. I hope you find warmth in your thoughts.
If I'm to bask in the beauty of Highgarden again, my only wish is that you'd be with me. At the very least, I want to see the look on your face when you get to taste a ripe fire peach for the first time.
The first time we spoke, you reminded me that my duty is to the people. In this, we are in total agreement and I am grateful that you are giving me the opportunity to learn. If ever you feel as though my efforts are lacking, or if I have committed some grave oversight, please do tell me.
I do have a question, if you don't mind. There are many nuances of formality in the etiquette of the court, but how important are titles for every day conversation? For instance, I can't help but notice that you only sign off with the first letter of your name, instead of your full title, and you write my name. In Westeros, I have only ever been addressed by a title followed by my name, if that. And if that is the expectation for a lady, you can imagine how much more important it is to address the king properly.
Forgive me if this is a silly question, but I believe it is these tiny details that will keep me apart.
I hope you find warmth in your thoughts as well. And if, for any reason, you find it difficult to do so, please look at this love letter that Arakhis wrote to you today, as a forlorn son kept apart from his father.
Yours, Margaery.
[ inside the folded letter is a smaller slip of paper, where a paw print is haphazardly created from a blot of ink. ]
My full title would require a full page. It is a better employment of paper, ink, and time if I shorten it to the first letter.
I beg your pardon if I broached any rule of civility. I am ignorant of the customs of Westeros. Although that is no excuse as you have been so diligent in learning this country's customs; yet I have made no attempt to learn yours. Is it common there for a husband and wife to address each other by their titles even in private?
Please enlighten me as to the proper way to address you. My concern lays with respect and understanding rather than titles so you may address me however you please.
๐
( with a muffled smile, constantin places the letter from arakhis in his frayed and well-worn copy of king nacogdoches's autobiography. )
Please don't apologize, as there is nothing to forgive. We are not living in Westeros and it only makes sense that I adapt to your customs, rather than the other way around.
I can't speak for other marriages, other than that of my parents' and the one I was expected to have. My parents called each other by name, but in King's Landing, where there are so many more rules, I would've been expected to call the king "Your Grace" until explicitly told that such formality isn't necessary.
I like it when you call me by my name, so please continue to do so. It lends a warmth that I quite like. It may also startle you to know this, but no one outside my family has called me by my name alone either, so it feels friendlier.
[ all of his letters are saved in a box that she's brought from home, but this one is read and reread several times, her expressions a mix of wistful, touched, and grateful. his kindness is one that feels strange for how genuine it is, although she knows that's more of a testament to her home than anything.
there is no response only because she can only say thank you so many times before the words lose their meaning; the best she can do is show that his respect and faith are not misplaced. ]
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๐๐๐๐
and so it goes. ]
Your Majesty,
I hope this note finds you well. Thank you again, for keeping me company and taking such good care of me.
If it wouldn't be too much trouble, might it be possible for us to create a standing appointment to spend time together on a monthly basis? I apologize for the selfish nature of my request, but I enjoyed our time together and would appreciate the chance for conversation when I'm not otherwise preoccupied.
Texts and records are excellent sources of information, but learning from someone with excellent memory isn't an opportunity everyone gets to have. I would be honored to hear more of your stories.
Sincerely,
Margaery.
sent via dog
Margaery,
As of late, I have been rereading the autobiography of King Nacogdoches. If the name is unfamiliar, he was the second king under which I served. Ever since his death, the shadow of his great reign has loomed over every succeeding ruler. Including me. Rather than resist it as others have tried, I have chosen to embrace it and emulate my kingship after his. It is only now, however, that I realize that I should emulate my conduct as a husband after him as well.
Two centuries later, my old friend is still teaching me.
So while I applaud your concern about my busy schedule, it can never be so busy that we must make appointments to spend time together. Efforts must be made, especially on my part. Henceforth, you shall receive a copy of my daily schedule from my private secretary, Madam Jacobine Affrรฉ. Additionally, you have permission to come and go from my offices as you please. Most of my time is spent there. While my days are often long and hectic, I need you to know that you are as important as any meeting.
Attach your response to his collar and speak "Da-moy A-rack-is."
๐
DOG... ๐ฅน
Your Majesty,
I have yet to reach the second autobiography, but I look forward to reading about King Nacogdoches and learning about his great achievements.
And thank you. It is no small thing that you would permit me to access your schedule and your offices, even if you see it otherwise. I promise not to abuse this privilege - not that my studies will leave me much time to do so. I find myself grateful that at the very least, my horseback riding skills still remain useful.
Your dog is as handsome and majestic as you are, and ever so sweet! It's been too long since I've felt a wet nose press into the palm of my hand for affection and I will be smiling all day because of it. Please send him to me more often if you can bear the separation. How old is he, and does he have a favorite treat?
With respect,
Margaery.
sent again via ๐
You are starting with his father then, King Amboise?
( the book is perhaps tolerable if the reader is unaware of the lies and flimsy defenses. nacogdoches was a good king, but his father was the opposite. on this, however, constantin shall remain silent. he will forever be indebted to king amboise for granting his people sanctuary. however supercilious his motivations were. )
The Duke Des Hauteurs gifted him to me from his prized litter barely a year ago. Arakhis is partial to apple slices with peanut butter. And if you are partial to him, he is welcome to stay with you as often as you'd like. The company he finds there will be much lovelier than any here.
๐
also sent back via pupper uwu
Yes, that is correct. I'm already forming some thoughts, but I would like to finish it completely before I discuss it with you. Autobiographies of each emperor is a most elegant idea, especially as it captures their present thoughts with a historical angle. I very much look forward to reading yours. In fact, I had to take a moment when I realized our union might be mentioned.
As will Arakhis, no doubt. I'm sure he and I will become very good friends with our similarities. For instance, while I resolve to nurture the same elegant restraint that so many in your court have, our kindred restless spirits will have the most fun when engaged in playful exercises. You're always welcome to join us if you ever see us, of course.
Your lovely Margaery. x
doggo delivero
Margaery,
If your thoughts remain insatiable, might I recommend Lord Angus Matthiessen's book for a complete picture of the man? As many of King Amboise's accomplishments were before my time, I can provide little insight.
( his most notable accomplishment was to act as the shining illustration of unchecked power and managerial incompetence. it was under his reign that ornefluer transitioned from a government where the ruler had ultimate authority to its present one where the people are the ultimate authority. in a way then, king amboise proved to be one of the most significant rulers in ornefluerian history. )
It will be another six years before you read anything of our union. Chapters are added every decade.
It gladdens my heart to hear that Arakhis will have another friend to play with. Despite his attempts to hide it, I know he gets very little joy accompanying me to countless meetings and inspections. And, though he receives plenty of attention here, there, and everywhere, none comes with the promise of stained kisses.
๐
should we say doggo delivero in perpetuity from here on out HAHA โ
Of course. If anything, thank you for the recommendation. I wouldn't dare make any assumptions, but there do seem to be some aspects to King Amboise's autobiography that feel like almost unreliable narration? It may be my own bias - the way he writes reminds me of the way they write about certain kings back home.
[ like the current one, for instance. he's got plenty of embellishments listed under his name that he hardly deserves. ]
Will I be allowed to send my family a copy of your autobiography even if it isn't finished?
I think you underestimate how much Arakhis loves you. I'm sure that through all those meetings and inspections, all he was thinking was how happy he got to be by your side. I'll be more than content to be second in his affections, by virtue of how much we'll play together.
And I do apologize for the stains! I've decided to limit my kisses to evenings as I retire to bed. Speaking of, the nights continue to be sharply cold - please take care to stay warm.
Yours,
Margaery.
infinito doggo delivero
Margaery,
Volosko willing, it will be several centuries before my final chapter is published. Nevertheless, you are welcome to send your family whatever you wish. Monsieur De Philippe mentioned your father greatly enjoyed the champagne, so perhaps a crate of that along with the book?
( an edited version of the book, of course. to avoid panic and fear, the king ordered a strict diet of information about their country and the continent. no mention of their technological advancements or the magic that permeates the other countries. no fraternization from the sailors who travel to westeros. as far as that continent knows, ornefluer and the other countries of this continent are no different. )
Please do not make yourself uneasy. I find it rather amusing that he returned with lipstick on his fur where your lips pressed against him. Out of exuberance, I hope and imagine.
I appreciate your concern for my well-being in the cold, Margaery, but any concern should be reserved for you. This will be your first winter in Ornefluer โ indeed, in a place where freezing conditions are nearly constant. Though it has happened only a few times in my memory, in the dead of winter the water surrounding the capital can freeze over to the point that one could walk on it with very little danger of falling through. Arakhis is a very warm and comfortable bed partner if you wish to have him. Or if the weather is too cold for your temperament, the western states might be more agreeable.
That, however, is a discussion for another time. We have yet to reach the halfway point of autumn. Perhaps you will develop a regard for the warmth that comes with the cold.
๐
no subject
Your Majesty,
You are so very kind and thoughtful. It makes me more eager than ever to reach King Nacogdoches' autobiography, if even you feel he is the paragon of virtue. I know my family will appreciate the gestures - and yes, particularly my father, who enjoys his drink even more now that he only has to worry about my brother's marital prospects.
[ she wants to ask if he cares whether they have girls or boys, if he has an idea of how many he wants, but that's neither here nor there for now. ]
There were lots of dogs and cats back home, in Highgarden, because there was much more freedom there, in both space and manners. I wish I could show you how beautiful it is, although I'm sure Monsieur De Philippe has given you a full report. Arakhis reminds me so much of our friendliest pups.
I only fear that if I keep him from you for too long, the monotony of your days will increase, as all you will see are solemn faces and the tops of bowed heads. You are a king, but you are more than that as well. However, you are correct to assume that I have never experienced a winter like Ornefluer's. If you truly don't mind missing his company during the nights, I would like to have him to keep me warm.
But I am resolute to embrace the cold, especially as our meetings will undoubtedly bring me warmth as well.
Yours,
Margaery.
no subject
I know the difficulty of leaving home, but someday you will bask in the beauty of Highgarden again. In the meantime, I commend you for your resilience and skill. The culture and customs of Ornefluer differ from those of Westeros, yet you have adapted swiftly. On behalf of my people, please accept my gratitude for your diligence and thoughtfulness in learning.
All I see are solemn faces and bowed heads until I kneel to their level and shake them from their deference to remind them that I am a man. Please do not suppose that their faces are all like General Gaboriault's or that their heads are all like Monsieur Reubens's. Once you know them, the charm and affability in their expressions are easier to recognize.
Anyway, the years have been fortifying enough that I can bear any solitude with alacrity.
As will many of the joys that come with the change in weather. A feeling of reflection steeps into the people this time of year. It's a time to study past mistakes, a time to reminisce about the triumphs, and a time to hope for better in the coming year. I hope you find warmth in your thoughts.
๐
no subject
If I'm to bask in the beauty of Highgarden again, my only wish is that you'd be with me. At the very least, I want to see the look on your face when you get to taste a ripe fire peach for the first time.
The first time we spoke, you reminded me that my duty is to the people. In this, we are in total agreement and I am grateful that you are giving me the opportunity to learn. If ever you feel as though my efforts are lacking, or if I have committed some grave oversight, please do tell me.
I do have a question, if you don't mind. There are many nuances of formality in the etiquette of the court, but how important are titles for every day conversation? For instance, I can't help but notice that you only sign off with the first letter of your name, instead of your full title, and you write my name. In Westeros, I have only ever been addressed by a title followed by my name, if that. And if that is the expectation for a lady, you can imagine how much more important it is to address the king properly.
Forgive me if this is a silly question, but I believe it is these tiny details that will keep me apart.
I hope you find warmth in your thoughts as well. And if, for any reason, you find it difficult to do so, please look at this love letter that Arakhis wrote to you today, as a forlorn son kept apart from his father.
Yours,
Margaery.
[ inside the folded letter is a smaller slip of paper, where a paw print is haphazardly created from a blot of ink. ]
no subject
I beg your pardon if I broached any rule of civility. I am ignorant of the customs of Westeros. Although that is no excuse as you have been so diligent in learning this country's customs; yet I have made no attempt to learn yours. Is it common there for a husband and wife to address each other by their titles even in private?
Please enlighten me as to the proper way to address you. My concern lays with respect and understanding rather than titles so you may address me however you please.
๐
( with a muffled smile, constantin places the letter from arakhis in his frayed and well-worn copy of king nacogdoches's autobiography. )
no subject
Please don't apologize, as there is nothing to forgive. We are not living in Westeros and it only makes sense that I adapt to your customs, rather than the other way around.
I can't speak for other marriages, other than that of my parents' and the one I was expected to have. My parents called each other by name, but in King's Landing, where there are so many more rules, I would've been expected to call the king "Your Grace" until explicitly told that such formality isn't necessary.
I like it when you call me by my name, so please continue to do so. It lends a warmth that I quite like. It may also startle you to know this, but no one outside my family has called me by my name alone either, so it feels friendlier.
Yours,
Margaery.
no subject
Yes, we are not living in Westeros, but the land still lives in you. Pray, do not forget your home for this one.
No such formality is necessary here. If you are comfortable with first names, then that is how we shall address each other as such.
Margaery, I hope others will soon call you by your first name as well. I hope you are happy. I hope
( next page, )
Though you are far from home and family, find and create a home and family of your own here. This is all yours too.
๐
๐ ๐ฅบโค๏ธ
there is no response only because she can only say thank you so many times before the words lose their meaning; the best she can do is show that his respect and faith are not misplaced. ]