Deadly Alliances (Gespard)

[Marjolaine]

Neither the crescent moon nor the stars above could be seen in the black sky as Marjolaine entered into the grounds of the estate. She moved liked the shadows, only the most observant would have seen her approach. Though she was dressed in finery, she moved with the grace of a rogue.

It had proved to be difficult to gain entry into the estate, not that she expected it to be easy but the difficulty made her smile; if the smile was sincere or not only would she know. Every expression, every word that left Marjolaine perfect lips was calculated and practiced, never giving way to her true thoughts.

The guards continued to block her path and it wasn't until she lowered her hood was she recognized. “Pardon Mademoiselle.” The larger man bowed slightly. “You may pass, Emperor Gespard is expecting you.”

Marjolaine acknowledged the guards with a formal nod before she glided past them, her footsteps silent except for the swaying sound of her fine dark amethyst velvet gown hidden underneath her black cloak. Approaching the door of the most powerful man in Orlais, Marjolaine waited for her arrival to be announced by the guards manning his private quarters.

[Gespard de Chalons]

After having traveled across the world gaining new friends and allies, while also having participated at the Grand Tourney in Cumberland, the Emperor came to Val Chevin with an escort of ships, servants and guards, including his champion David who had won the tourney for the glory of Orlais. Together they had been greeted as heroes by the people and a feast had been held in their honour, and out of hospitality the Marquis granted his home to them as long they wanted to stay. However the reason why Gespard had chosen to step ashore in Val Chevin and not Val Royeaux, the capital, was because he had plans set in motion, of which only his closest knew about. The common people could only speculate what was about to happen, but everyone knew something big was going on. Along the entire northern border a lot of military activity had increased and north of Val Chevin, in the thick forest near the crossing bridge, a large encampment of troops had been gathering.

It was the seventh day of Gespard`s stay and as the evening grew late, the moon and the stars could be soon upon the clear sky. A magnificent sight to behold, but which Gespard choose not to care about. Important matters demanded his attention and thus by the desk he sat alone, writing letters to his must trusted commanders, waiting for someone who he had longed to meet, a person who had great significant to him, who had helped him a great deal in the past when it came to settle matters with his rivals and stir up chaos. Tomorrow morning was a big day, a day that would bring changes and wealth in the time to come, and when it began he needed someone close that he could rely on.

Just as he finished his letter to his commander in the south, a single guard entered the room with the news. “Majesty, your visitor has arrived.” He said respectfully as he bowed before his ruler. “Ah merci, let her in.” Gespard answered excited and stood up from his seat, overlooking his clothes as he prepared himself to meet the woman. Then as the doors opened, his eyes lit up and a big smile appeared on his face.

[Marjolaine]

The guard held open the door for Marjolaine to enter. She moved inside the room with poise and grace, befitting that of a lady with stature. Upon seeing Gespard Marjolaine's cool demeanor warmed and she returned his smile with a soft one of her own. "Your Majesty." She greeted him with a formal curtsy, her head bowed slightly but her dark eyes never left his.

"I am honored that you have requested my presence." Marjolaine stood upright and looked upon the grandeur of the room. It was much like Gespard. Everything was of the highest quality and perfectly tended to. Gespard had taken to the role of Emperor quite well. Power suited him well it seemed and Marjolaine couldn't help but be drawn to that.

Marjolaine said little else until they were alone. With the guards dismissed, she unlaced the bindings of her cloak letting the velvet slide from her shoulders before laying it over the back of the finely crafted chair. With silent steps she walked to the window and looked upon the view set before her. "The bards of Orlais are singing ballads of you." Her soft lips curved upward in a practiced smile that enhanced her beauty. "They sing of the great Emperor Gespard, the man who will bring Orlais back to the greatness that she is."

Finally Marjolaine turned to face Gespard. With all the power he possessed, she had to wonder why he had called upon her. "Did you send for me so that I would sing them to you?" She teased him, a playful light danced in eyes. "Or perhaps there is something else your majesty wishes to request of me."

[Gespard de Chalons]

As the guard opened the door for the anticipated guest, the first thing Gespard noticed in front of him was the sound of the woman`s shoes that touched the floor. Then as the sight became clearer and a pair of feet`s came into view, his gaze trailed from there and up. Marjolaine, the great ally and close friend of Emperor had finally arrived. Since childhood they had known each other and over time the two of them had developed a relationship that often had gone on and off, in fact it was thanks to Marjolaine that the schemes against the previous Empress had been a success, but now that the wheel had turned, it was time to deal with the future, which was why Gespard had summoned his beautiful friend for a private conversation.

Standing in awe he watched from behind the desk and when she greeted him with formal curtsy, he returned the favour by bowing his head kindly forward, with fixed eyes upon hers. “Bonjour Mademoiselle Marjolaine, a pleasure to see you again.” Gespard greeted back with an Orlesian accent as he stood up straight, ordering the guard to leave them alone with a simple wave with the hand. As the door closed, she began to unlace the bindings of her velvet cloak and the more of her that was revealed, the more aroused the Emperor became.

With the cloak placed over the back of the finely crafted chair, Gespard remained silent as his eyes followed Marjolaine to the window, and when she spoke again he listened intently; hearing the good news about the bards singing songs of him. It was good to know that Marjolaine`s bards made his good reputation prosper, but even among his own he had the people spread the good word. Of course there were always those that lurked in the shadows who sought to ruin for him, but with a bit of assistance, he hoped to deal with that problem.

Approaching Marjolaine slowly, Gespard watched her lips form the words that she spoke and as she turned to face him, he stopped in front of her. The questions that followed made Gespard smile back in a cunning manner, and as he reached out to hold her hands, he answered. “If my beautiful bard wishes to sing me songs, then I will not refuse, nor anything else she may have to offer, but this is not why I have summoned you.“ He spoke cleverly, moving his one hand slowly up her body to touch the cheek. “But, why such a rush, you just got here, oui?” Gespard whispered before he took the chance to lean in for a kiss, having waited months to meet her.

[Marjolaine]

A knowing smile slowly formed on Marjolaine’s lips as she felt Gespard’s touch on her cheek. She read into his eyes, years of being together had given her a familiarity of him that she knew he didn’t fully understand, and it was best that he didn’t. His summoning of her held some importance she knew. She was not one of his casual whores so even though she could sense his arousal; his purpose for her was not purely pleasure. But with Gespard pleasure was always something that easily distracted the man.

Marjolaine welcomed his kiss, her lips parting to meet his passion with that of her own. Her hands slid up the fine fabric that rested on his chest, warmth radiated from his body and Marjolaine moved closer to him closing the remaining distance. With her body pressed against his there was no denying the attraction the two still felt for each other even after all these years. Their coming together had been about enjoyment at first, at least as far as Gespard knew. She had come to share his bed in order to obtain information from him but things changed when she saw that she could gain more from him than her employer.

Despite how she had come to cross paths with Gespard, she had found nothing but enjoyment of his company since. She had even helped in putting him on the throne, and for that she had been rewarded. Quite handsomely in fact but Gespard evidently wanted more. “There is not rush.” Marjolaine murmured against Gespard’s lips, maneuvering her body against his in such a way to tease him further. “We have all night and then some if you wish.” Marjolaine kissed him again, this time with more fervor but soon broke the kiss and backed away from him teasing him again with her lustful gaze, beckoning him to give chase.

It was the game she liked to play with him. Gespard always got what he wanted rather easily, so she liked to tease him... make him prove his desire for her.

[Gespard de Chalons]

Sharing the long and passionate kiss with Marjolaine was something Gespard had looked forward to in months, knowing that there was none like her, a master at the art of seduction. Slowly and gently his hands moved across her body as he embraced her, and as they made out with each other, he listened to her words that were murmured in between. It made him smile and eagerly he pressed himself closer, but as she backed away and made herself hard to get, he simply glanced at her with a smirk as he replied. “Oui, no rush, but I like the way you think.” Returning a gaze of lust, he accepted the challenge to give chase and with one sweep with the arm, he pulled her close and kissed her again. Her lips were sweet and tasteful, and her very presence was enticing. Slowly he guided her over to the table, until they stopped at its edge.

As they continued to make out, Gespard murmured against her lips, while his hand came up her leg. “I have a question for you…which I hope you will accept.” He paused and kissed some more, before he continued. “Would you like to marry me, would you like to become my Empress, the Empress of all Orlais?” Gespard asked curiously, a bit afraid of what she would answer, but still confident that she desired his request. It was a big step for him to take, but he believed Marjolaine was the right person to ask, having known her for years. She was an amazing person, who had done a lot for him, and often had he tried to repay her, although none greater reward could he give than himself in marriage, it was after all, the least he could do, especially when he himself wanted it.

Being granted such an honour, was something many wished for in the Orlesian Empire and had people heard his question to Marjolaine, then there would have been many who had grown jealous. Should Marjolaine accept the offer than she would become the mightiest woman in the entire Empire, and her power would be greater than ever. Although should she refuse, then there was no telling on how the Emperor would react, but meanwhile as he waited for an answer, he took the opportunity to kiss her down the neck as he gently leaned her backwards, expecting Marjolaine to break the moment in shock because of the question.

[Marjolaine]

Marjolaine’s hands grasped the edge of the table as Gespard pinned her. Her lips welcomed him as he kissed her again and the passion between them continued to escalate. Gespard’s hands roamed her body and she arched herself forward, wanting to feel more of him. Slowly he leaned her back onto the table, taking advantage of the leverage he had. His words were almost lost to her and it wasn't until she let them sink in did she realize what was said.

This was not the first time she had been proposed to. Majority of men who enjoyed her company for a lengthy amount of time ended up asking for hand in marriage but for Gespard to be asking this…

Marjolaine looked up at him, her dark eyes gazing deep into his. “You are serious.” It was a statement rather than a question. “You wish me to be your wife? The Empress of Orlais?” Marjolaine’s sultry voice became melodic as thoughts of such power and prestige played in her mind. Marriage was not something that Marjolaine had ever thought on, but what came with being married to Gespard fulfilled many of her desires.

There was still the question of why Gespard had chosen her. Marjolaine was not one who was guided by others, so she would not be a puppet that Gespard could control. “You have many women of whom you could choose from.” Gespard’s appetite for women was well known to her and she was not shy to point it out. There was no anger or resentment in her tone. She did not judge him for his lustful ways; women were a weakness of many men. A weakness that women like her often exploited.

“I am honored that you would choose me but I must ask why. Do not mistake me for a bride who would be seen and not heard Gespard. “ Marjolaine had to make certain that Gespard knew that she would not be just a wife but a partner. If she were to be Empress then she expected to play a part in ruling Orlais. “Before I can say yes,” Which she had already decided she would, “why is it that you have chosen me?” Marjolaine smiled softly before gracing his lips with another kiss, one of encouragement and promise.

Her hand covered his that rested on her leg and she sensually guided it up further. “Tell me Gespard.” Marjolaine pulled away so that she could see into his eyes. Her seduction of him was a way to get him to let down his guard, for her to see truth where he could easily lie. His reasons would not change her decision but it would give her perspective of what Gespard expected of her.

[Gespard de Chalons]

With a pleased grin on the face, Gespard kept his gaze fixed on Marjolaine`s eyes as he listened to everything she said. She seemed shocked and delighted by the question he asked, but the more she wondered why, the more she wanted to know his intentions for proposing it. Passionately and eager Gespard returned the kiss she gave him, and with her hand upon his he allowed her to guide him sensually up the leg, what a tease he thought, but enjoyed every second of it. She knew exactly what buttons to push to get what she wanted from him, and he could not stop her. For years he had known her and through course of time the two of them had developed something special, something which only they could fathom.

As Gespard was forced to tell his reason, he glanced at her and said. “Is it not obvious? With you by my side we would be unstoppable, and surely there are many women in this world I could pick to be my Empress, but none are like you Mon Cherie. I`ve known you for years and yet you have never betrayed me, in fact you are the only one I trust in this cruel world.” He stated and smiled, then took her hand and from between the legs he lifted it up to his lips, gently he kissed her fingers and with a look of love, he continued. “If you accept, you`ll be equal to me. Certainly you are more than a simple bride, you are Marjolaine, the great Orlesian Bard who`s influence run deep in this Empire, and with me, you would run it even deeper, from its very core. “

With a careful pull, Gespard slowly pressed himself closer to Marjolaine and with the opportunity, he leaned his head to the side and begun to kiss her neck again, breathing soothingly with satisfaction. She was such a beautiful and attractive woman, if she accepted his proposal than every man in the Empire would grow jealous of his fair Empress, of this he was certain and he knew very well Marjolaine could not deny the chance to gain more power. The two of them were similar in some ways; they both were power-hungry and if they saw benefits in certain deals then both would accept it.

However, the marriage proposal he suggested to Marjolaine was more than a friendly bond of unity, it was also asked because of what he felt for her. Perhaps it was love? Although even if that was true, he would never dare to admit it, as love could be considered a weakness, especially in Orlais were the game tricked and robbed you of everything you held dear, only such that one could gain an advantage. It was a game that had killed Gespard`s father, Emperor Florian, as well torn his family. If only things had been different, then perhaps there would be no need to hide what one felt. Surely the Emperor trusted Marjolaine, but nonetheless he kept the words: “I love you” hidden in his mind. As he kissed her neck with sweet and wet lips, he waited patiently on her answer again.

[Marjolaine]

Much of what Gespard had said was true. Marjolaine was well regarded as one of the most prestigious Bards of all Orlais. Her influence was wide spread, though most did not know how much influence she truly had. To most she was a famous bard whose voice and beauty was hard matched. However there were those select few who knew her to be much more. Gespard of coarse was one of them.

Marjolaine’s skills as a bard was but one of her many talents. She commanded her own band of spies and assassins that were not contained in Orlais but were spread out throughout many regions of Thedas. There was little she could not discover or influence if there was proper incentive for her to do so.

As Empress, the power she would wield would allow her to expand upon the empire she had already built. But that is not what made her eyes light up at Gespard's proposal. She would be Empress. There was no power higher than that in Orlais besides the Emperor himself and well… the Divine. Then again, without the leash of faith the Divine was nothing more than an uptight Mother backed by soldiers of her own, one in particular who Marjolaine had even trained herself. So much for righteous followers.

As Gespard continued to kiss along her neck, Marjolaine tilted her head to the side. Her silky black locks slid from her shoulder baring more of her flawless skin, already warm from the heat of their growing passion. There was no denying that she wanted the same things as Gespard. To know that he wished to share this with her was… touching.

Marjolaine’s hands moved upward to Gespard’s face and she cupped his cheeks with her palms. Her eyes searched deep within his. There was emotion there that could not be hidden from her. Over the years the two had come to share a special bond, an understanding and acceptance of each other. If he wished her to be his wife, his Empress, then she would not refuse.

“I accept. I will be your Empress, Gespard. I will be… yours.” Marjolaine voice was sweet and soft as she continued to gaze deep into his eyes. Slowly she brought her full lips to his and sealed the promise she made him.

[Gespard de Chalons]

The more of Marjolaine`s neck that were revealed, the more eager Gespard became as he waited. From just beneath the ear to the collarbone his lips went, and as the heated passion grew with the intensified breathing, he was drawn to look back into her eyes as she cupped his face with the hands. For the very first time, the Emperor saw something in Marjolaine that was rarely revealed. Certainly they were full of passion and mystery as always, but in them he could also see how much she cared for him. It made Gespard feel incredible fortunate, as he felt very much the same for her.

Then as she answered his proposal with a sweet voice, he could not avoid, but to smile back in satisfaction. She said yes, she wanted to marry him, to become his wife and the new Empress of Orlais. It was not totally unexpected that she would agree, as it would give her more power, but still it was wonderful to hear the words come from her mouth when it sounded as if there were more too them.

For months on his journey he had been faced with the dilemma on whom to marry when he got home, but to him there was no question on who to pick, since Marjolaine had always been his favourite, despite her secrets.

No matter, he thought, whatever she hid he knew one could always count on her, as she always had been there for him in the past. Some would perhaps say it was not the wisest choice to give the woman the key to Orlais, but he cared little of that. She was his closest friend, in fact more than that, and if he wanted to spend an eternity with someone it would have be her, who he knew was similar himself in behavior, who`s lust for fun and power were just as great.

With loving passion he kissed Marjolaine back, and as their lips got gloomed together, he chose to wrap his arms around her. Carefully he laid her over the table and with him on top, the moment of pleasure increased. From place to place they moved around in the room, until finally they found their rest upon the bed close by.

Hours passed and when Gespard paused to take a breath and as his gaze fell upon Marjolaine who remained at his side, he spoke with a smile, knowing that he had done the right choice. “Good, then it is settled. We are to get married.”

[Marjolaine]

Marjoaline returned Gespard’s smile. With their bodies entwined she kissed him again. “Yes. We are to be married. Though I do not believe you wish to be married immediately. You have a country to solidify and we both know how important that is.” Her hand brushed away several strands of his hair that had fallen over his eyes so that she could look into them clearly. “I know you. You have been making plans. Wish to share with your soon to be wife?” Marjolaine grinned before sitting up in the large ornate bed.

She made no effort to pull up the silk sheets to cover her letting them pool at her waste. Marjolaine was not modest about her body in the least; it was one of her greatest assets after all. “I have been told of the resistance you are facing. The rebels are building an army. They are being well funded as well. What does that tell you?” Marjolaine’s voice maintained its sultry undertones, though she was speaking in a more formal manner. When it came to business, Marjolaine was very shrewd.

Gespard was no fool either and she was sure he had learned from his own sources what the resistance was up to. “Your enemies are close Gespard.” Marjolaine ran her finger along his jaw and grinned as she looked into his eyes. “I have associates looking into the matter. I will deal with them when they come to light. But do take precaution my love. They will find any weakness you have and use it against you.” She was not being condescending but merely speaking truth. Marjolaine knew of several of these weaknesses. Had things played out differently in the past and she had not taken a liking to him years ago, who would say he would Emperor now. Needless to say Marjolaine was very pleased that she decided to side herself with him then.

[Gespard de Chalons]

With a heavy sigh, Gespard`s bare chest heaved and with a look at Marjolaine he answered. “Ah yes, you are right. There is much that needs to be done before we can have our wedding, but when I am done with my work here…we will see it through.” He then gave her a smile as she so kindly removed a few strands of hair from his eyes, it was a kind gesture and he appreciated it greatly. Marjolaine was an incredible woman, whom would make a fine Empress, he thought. Intently he listened to what further she had to say, and of course she wanted him to share his plans, this was how she often gained her information, which was not unknown to him, but since he knew her, Gespard was always prepared on how to respond in her presence, even though he trusted the woman with his life.

As she sat herself up, he remained silent and he kept his eyes on Marjolaine, she was so fair and beautiful and the more he saw of her, the more he wanted. The information she provided about the rebels was nothing new, but it did make him think twice. Money was often a factor in war and politics, and surely the resistance was growing stronger by the day, which meant someone powerful stood behind them, one individual or many. It had taken a lot of work to reclaim the throne, though keeping it would prove to be harder. He knew there was still some in Orlais with good money that favoured Celene, even when he had tried to replace most of them; it was not many left however, except for criminals that lived on others misfortune.

Observing Marjolaine`s words and body language made Gespard almost think that she could have something to do with it, but the very thought almost made him laugh, knowing that it could never be true. Still he stayed silent and he agreed, his enemies were close, and he knew they would use his weaknesses against him, this certainly was expected and the only way to counter such was to think like them, which he already did and had accounted for. Keep your friends close, but enemies’ closer.

Letting Marjolaine run a finger along his jaw, he lot a smirk appear on his face as he thought it was nice she cared for him, but in answer to all her words, he replied. “I appreciate your concern and assistance, but do not worry about me madam, I will be careful and always a step ahead or two, as I always have been. However, it is good to hear you and your associates will help me solve the rebel problem. Actually, I want you to take full care of it in Val Royeaux while I am at war. I am making you regent in my absence.” He said, knowing she would love that idea.

Then suddenly he took the moment to grab Marjolaine`s hand carefully, and with a light pull he threw her back down onto the bed with him, slowly crawling on top of her as he moved his hand up her leg again. With a smile on the face he pinned her in a playfully manner, enjoying the moment as he whispered. “And if I did not know better, I`d say there is someone rich and powerful behind the rebels, maybe it is you or maybe it is me…” He grinned and made a glance at her, before he buried himself in Marjolaine`s neck. “Or perhaps, there is someone else…” Gespard murmured, but paused shortly and kissed on. “I will let you find out, and while you are in Val Royeaux, I trust you will prepare our wedding, yes?” He stopped and looked at her curiously.

[Marjolaine]

Marjolaine fell back against the pillow softly, guided by Gespard’s hand and grinned at him. Her smile turned more mischievous as he positioned himself on top of her. “Mmm. But we both know that if it were I, you’d already be dead.” The seductress teased back. There was truth to her words. Marjolaine was a dangerous enemy to have. Fortunately for Gespard, his enemies were hers.

“You wish me Regent? I am touched that you think of me so highly. I promise not to disappoint. I will take care of those who hide in the shadows and challenge your right to the Throne. Just make sure you come back to me.” Marjolaine brushed her lips against his before tilting back her neck. A sigh of pleasure left her lips when Gespard kissed along her neck and her hand moved up behind his head, playing into his hair. Her body arched up against his, encouraging his caresses further.

Marjolaine brought her head forward so that she meet Gespard’s gaze. “The wedding… but of course. I will see to the arrangements, though it will still take some time after you arrive home before it can actually take place. But my dress will be made, your garments as well and decorations will be seen to. We’ll just need a date. Trust me it will be extravagant and elegant, befitting of the true Emperor of Orlais… and his lovely wife.” Marjolaine smiled before she captured Gespard’s face in her soft hands and kissed him deeply.

After the kiss broke it was her turn to look at him curiously. “Are there any special requests that you have?”