Detailed Roleplayers discussion
1x1
>
McKensie and Lara III
message 1:
by
Lara
(new)
Jun 10, 2015 06:42PM
Hey :)
reply
|
flag
Thank you! This is exciting! :DSo I know we have one idea we could play off of, do you have any other ideas you want to have?
If we didn't go with murder, we could do something historical. We haven't done one of those yet. Or even futuristic in a world full of gadgets. We haven't played much with time. :) Honestly, I'm up for anything as long as it looks like something exciting! :)
Historical could be fun, like pride and prejudice times or pirates...something exciting with action and of course tons of drama.
Pride and prejudice times sounds promising. I've done pirate ones recently, so I'm less keen on those. But exciting and drama sound amazing! Lol. Maybe we could have two characters from higher class living, and two other charries from more lowerclass life styles? That would cause a whole lot of drama between charries and their families, if it was in the victorian era. Very unproper and all that XP
I love it!! It could be like scandelous maids and masters, have you ever seen Downton Abbey?
Lol yes!!!!! I've seeen up until season four :P sounds good. So do you want to go with that then?
Yeah that will be fun, can yoh start us off?
Sure :) could we try to be a little more detailed with this one? I find that they are more exciting f there's at least a little bit more detail :)Illiana bent over the fire, thinking over and over how lucky she was that she got to be a house maid. Being from a family of poor people who barely scraped by, getting hired as a house maid truly was an honor. She dusted the hearth and then loaded in the firewood. She knew how to make a fire, but she was still very careful with the kindling and matches, as though she could break one and screw the whole thing up. She certainly would hate that on her first day of work, so she took great care to make everything perfect, before dusting her apron and moving to the next fire place.
James was up early this morning, a whole lot earlier than he wished to be up and about the manor. He had stayed up late the night before, playing poker with the men of the house, and he thought six to be a very ungodly hour to be up. And yet here he was, strolling along through the gardens of the manor, discussing where his soon to arrive cousin would stay for the summer. James hadn't seen his cousin in a year, and honestly, he didn't care much about him. He hardly knew the boy. But his parents didn't want him to be lonely for the summer, so they had found him company.
Yes of course, I've become very lazy lately and I'm sorry.Marcoux watched as the sun came over the hills as he whistled loading new straw into the stable. The swish sound comforted him as he sat on the barell pondering life, horses were the most peaceful and understanding creatures he preferred their company far more then humans. He chuckled as a chestnut mare with a dark streaked mane nibbled at his hair impatiently "alright, alright! You'll get your sugar cubes Bronsen...impatient beast." He teased knocking his head against the large muzzle feeling like velvet against his skin. He sighed wishing he could just stay there all the time, but as the lord an heir of the manor he had duties he must attend and be with the gastly boys his age as they hunt and played poker all night long. He had plans to meet with his cousin, they hadn't seen each other for a year and he knew him to be nuisance and a bit of a play boy. He brushed down the horse feeling the strong musculature "glad you are coming with me mate, or I may have no one to talk to.." He said honestly to the horse as he heard the roosters crowing awakening the rest of the manor.
Lydia quickly worked in the kitchen downstairs, the small space was sweltering in this heat as different things came in and went out of the oven. Breakfast for guests was a huge deal and all the kitchen maids had been working since dawn cleaning and pressing the cloth napkins, polishing the silver and icing the pastry cakes. She wiped the sweat and flour off of her brow as she yelled at one of the younger butler apprentices "get the lead out of your trousers, we've got a meal to perfect and it ain't gonna be me that ruins it, ya here?!" She wasn't a well trained speaker or one for manners that's why she stayed downstairs but she would love to dream about being a ladies maid and having those nice white crisp uniforms...wouldn't it be lovely? She slapped the dough rolling it in a spiral and getting it on the metal sheet to cook.
Np!Illiana was just finishing up with the fires, dusting the soot off her hands when a shrill shout caused her head to shoot up, her blue eyes wide with worry. "Illy!" Came the shout again. Mrs Worthweir came jogging into the sitting room, her face as red as a tomato. She was a fairly saggy woman, with a good amount of wrinkles on her face, and huge rolls on her stomach. She certainly didn't want for anything, especially not food. "Illiana! Why are you still in here? The curtains needed to be drawn half and hour ago! Don't dilly dally! Get on it!" She shooed Illiana out of the room with a broom. Illiana immediately rushed to the library, depositing her kindling in the box by the hearth before hurrying to the windows to draw them open and fasten ten by the large oak frames. She made a mental reminder next time that caution is good, but not if speed is compromised. The family of the manor would be up soon, and the house needed to be ready for them.
James had to resist the urge to yawn multiple times as the gardener went over what sorts of seeds needed to be planted. James knew nothing of seeds. Wasn't that what a gardener was for anyways? But he had to listen. If he was going to run this manor someday after his father stepped down, then he needed to know how to do it. And he was already nearly eighteen. His manager was there with him, however, and together they ended up deciding that carrots and parsley would be a good starter crop in the spring next year. The sun was shining and the manor looked beautiful, but James wanted to get back into bed. "What's left John?" He asked his manager casually, his hands clasped behind his back. John looked at his list. "Landscaping with Mr Murray and then were all done."
James sighed heavily.
Lydia dabbed the fresh buns with cooled cream whipped to perfection, she glanced in the basket and her temper shot through the roof "who ate the last of dem strawberries?! I can't finish the bloody meal without dem strawberries to dazzle on top." She waited as the kitchen stayed silent, she groaned throwing her apron off and heading to the garden herself. She picked the berries her arms covered in red scratch marks as the gardener and the master came to the orchard. She stumbled back seeing the young master "begging yer pardon...I didn't think no one would be out this early." She curtsied refusing to look at the face of the young master. Oh yes he was a looker every maid told her that as they came downstairs but she had never seen him herself.Marcoux dressed and stood patiently as his footman prepared the luggage for his stay at the manor. He pulled at the stuffy collar wishing to be in a loose shirt and slacks like a common stable boy. He stood stiff feeling more torture then the tower of London "Maxwell I do believe you have out done yourself creating the most uncomfortable ensemble." He told his footman but who was also his best mate. They had been best friends as lads until his parents caught on and taught him the lesson of upper status. He refused to think that way and turned his back to the large mirror shaking himself like a horse covered in flies. "I don't understand this visit at all, at least you'll be there...and Bronsen."
James spotted the form in the berry patch before she spotted him. He tipped his head in curiosity, wordering what a kitchen maid was doing out in the garden. She certainly wasn't tending to the plants. They had garden boys for that. As he watched, he quickly discovered that she was picking berries. Strawberries by the looks of it. The straw that they packed around those plants seemed to be giving her quite the rough time of it. But why was she doing the collecting? Didn't kitchen maids need to be making breakfast around this time in the morning? James walked over, smiling lightly as she jumped up and mumbled a hasty apology. James didn't know this maid. But then again, he only ever saw the house maids anyways. "It's quite alright." He assured, motioning to her basket. "Strawberries? What's for breakfast? Or is it a secret?" He asked, one eyebrow raised as his smile slowly spread. The manager glanced at the little encounter with a disapproving eye, not liking how James was always so friendly with the maids. And any girl for that matter.Illy moved through the rooms, slowly drawing each of the curtains as other maids dusted the furniture and replaced items that had been moved around. She always thought it was so neat to watch everyone work together like an organized bee give, with different jobs for each person. Day one and she was enjoying herself immensely. A commotion in the hall caused her to look up again as Mrs Worthweir once again returned to the room this time arguing with one of the footmen. "We need a maid to go along with you mark! A guest is always driven back with one maid and one footman."
Illy' ears perked and she pretended she was busy dusting in the corner so she could listen. A guest? Coming to the manor? Now that was exciting. They hardly ever got guests! From what she heard, master James was just always visiting the city.
"I am well aware of that, but we can't spare any more maids this morning." Mark pointed out.
A trip? To get the guest? Illys head poked up. "I'll go!" She corrected herself. "That is if you wish me to." She said politely.
Mrs Worthweir smiled "there. Perfect you have your maid. Illiana? Go get cleaned up and out to the carriage in ten minutes!"
Illiana bobbed her head and ducked up the stairs.
Lydia caught the disapproving look quickly, John was a higher up and could have her fired from the kitchen quickly and efficiently if he felt anything innapropriate hsppening with the young master. She ducked her head continuing to pick though one should never work while a family member of the manor was present, she needed to hide the blush glowing on her cheeks. "Not a secret sir, strawberries were needed to complete dem sweet buns, and someone had nitched dem all out of the basket. It's my duty to make sure the meal is satisfactory to your tastes..." She brushed off her apron and stood again "if you allow me sir I need to git back to the kitchen."Marcoux had a plan, as he changed back into his grunges "Maxwell you will go in my place, no one will be able to tell the difference! I will be your footman and the stable boy, mother will have a fit im sure of it but wouldn't it be a grand adventure? You would enjoy poker and hunting flirting with every lass in a fitting gown. Oh please say you'll do this for me?" He pleaded as he heard the carriage clop through the gate ready to pick him up. He would die of boredom and over exposure of James ego otherwise.
James grinned then, unable to keep back his smile. Sweet buns! He hadn't had those in forever. Not that he didn't like oatmeal or toast, but hey... sweet buns were very nearly a beautiful desert breakfast, and the sweeter the better. That was the way everything was with James. He was partial to sweet deserts, sweet people, sweet memories, events. He had a heart for the lovely in life. "Wonderful!" He said, sliding his hands casually into his pockets. "You've been doing a lovely job so far if you're responsible for all the lovely meals we have around here." He said politely. He wasn't one to snide others. Yes, he was a play boy, but he wasn't the bad sort. He was a gentlemanly play boy. Then he nodded when she said she had to get back. "Of course. Have a good day." He said, inclining his head a little. When she was out of earshot, he turned to John. "What is that girl's name?" He asked, curious. John out of duty had to answer, but he sure didn't want to encourage interaction between his master and the staff. "Lydia, sir."
James nodded slowly, thinking the name over. He would have to remember her. His father always said to make a point of knowing each of the staff. A well run house is a happy one.
Maxwell looked up in extreme surprise. He had never expected his master to ask that. It was completely scandalous. Not to mention, if anyone found out, they both would be in heaps of trouble. That didn't mean he didn't find it an attractive idea. Switching roles with his master? When else would he get a chance like this? No other man was as good friends with him as Marcoux, and no other person would offer something like this. Normally he would refuse, but his friend was pretty near begging him. So he smiled lightly, and shrugged. "If it's what you really want master Marc." he said simply, saying he would be willing to try it, regardless of the countless risks. "I don't recommend it however... if we were found..."
Lydia smiled her cheeks flushed as he complimented her hard worked meals, she curtsied again and nodded "I'll be sure to put more cream on yours sir James if you enjoy it that much." She ran back to the bustle of the kitchen and dabbed strawberries on each as she drizzled more cream on the plate marked with a cursive gold J for James. She wasn't fancying him, not at all but it was always good to be praised for her recipes and work she put in each meal. She was the youngest cook in the house and of course she got snide from the other maids for that but she was good at what she did and highly respected in the house.Marcoux shook his head "only I would be the one in trouble, it is my plan and you must obey my every demand correct? So that's simple, no one could possibly put the blame on you Master Marc." He chuckled loving to be able to put that gastly title on someone else. He put the derby on his friend's head "there, that will obscure your face till we arrive there." He grabbed his luggage and put on the footman jacket and gloves as he opened the door for the young master and chuckled "your carriage awaits sir, I will go hitch the horse to the other one."
James had beamed when she offered to add more cream to his. He made a note to himself to remember to thank her when he next saw her. "Alright, John." He said finally, turning back to look at his manager. "We had to go see the landscaping projects?" He asked. John nodded, leading him to the back end of the property where the old barn stood. It was about time to tear down a section of it and rebuild it, and they wanted to design it so they could keep cows as well as sheep. After working all this out with their landscaper, James finally could come back in the manor again.
He washed up and changed into his nicer day suit, before combing his hair and coming downstairs again for breakfast. He sat at his usual chair at the table, picking up the daily news to read about the happenings of the day.
..
Maxwell still wasn't quite sure about all this, but it was rather fun to try and be something else for a change. He would get to play the rich and famous for a summer. This might be fun after all. He smiled and nodded at Marcoux, taking to the roll quite well. "Don't forget to tie down the baggage." He reminded, exiting the house. He tried to walk tall like heirs usually did, and entered the carriage where Illiana was waiting.
Illiana was so thrilled to be taking the journey. She had watched the scenery on the way here, and had loved every bit of it. Now she sat with her hands neatly folded in her lap, and she smiled politely when the nice looking man stepped into the carriage. "Mark is your driver today." She said quickly, "he'll take us directly back to the Wendel household." She promised, shutting the carriage door and nodding to Mark who started off the horses again. Then she climbed into the carriage for the servants that was following behind.
Lacey his sister came in gracefully and smiled sitting by him she pulled the newspaper out of his hands and laughed gaily. Being only a year apart they were best friends and teased each other mercifully "you are looking more and more like father everyday! Shall I get you a pipe and powder your hair old man?" She teased and sat down sitting on the paper so he couldn't get to it. Her dress was light blue simple with a lace trim her hair done up out of her face pulled back by a lace headband "how was it losing your ever needed beauty sleep?"Marcoux looked up as a maid entered the carriage, he smiled and tipped his head to her "how do you do?" He didn't really know if the servants corresponded much or if they kept to themselves but she was a lovely young thing and being the master he wouldn't be able to correspond with her usually.
James tried to snatch the paper back, but couldn't as she was too quick and was soon seated on it. "I am not old!" He said, settling for kissing his sister on the cheek. "Now you have cooties." he grinned, sitting back in his chair, "I'll have you know, I try to keep current with times, and was just reading about budget cuts. Fun stuff that you'd have to do too if you were the heir." He said, rolling his eyes. "I lost much needed sleep again today simply because I needed to get up and take care of tremendously drab subjects while you slept in bed. But its still incredibly important." He said, sticking out his chest rather comically. "I have to run this house one day you know." he said, imitating their father. Illiana looked up when she was suddenly addressed by the guest's butler and she smiled politely, dipping her head in recognition. "I'm quite fine, thank you." She said honestly. She folded and unfolded her hands in nervous excitement, shrugging. "I'm rather new at this job... just started today. But don't tell anyone. The master would think it incredibly inappropriate for such a new maid to pick up a guest." She said seriously, her voice a soft whisper as she didn't want others hearing. But she figured she could trust this man. He seemed nice enough.
His father came up behind him "not if you keep up with acting like a bafoon in the zoo. Sit up straight and where is that paper?" Lacey brought it out with a smile "here it is father, I was just reading about budget cuts fascinating subject." Her father beamed "well, at least someone is paying attention, if only you could be the heir darling." Lacey smirked at James knowing he was seething inside. His father smiled "but that is why lord Marcoux is coming, you will be betrothed to him." Lacey nearly fell off her chair in shock.Marcoux raised a brow but smiled "my master would not care one way or the other, I feel you are doing a very professional and good job. Plus your beauty enchants the drab carriage." He said honestly and looked out the window "it's nice to be away..." He muttered to himself of course referring to the switch of social status. He felt free and he knew this summer would be much more relaxing then he had ever experianced. "Do you know why my master is staying at your masters manor?"
James's smile waned when his father came in and he sat straight again, looking sheepish. "Sorry father." He said quickly, taking a sip of his coffee. But when his sister stole his thunder, he shot her a death glare and tried to look innocent when their father was looking. "She stole the paper from me." He insisted under his breath. His anger dissipated when the new news came, however. This was quite a shock. His baby sister... married? He couldn't even imagine it. He never thought Lacey would ever get married. She was such a free spirit. And yet here she was... practically betrothed. Illiana found herself blushing shyly when he complimented her, and then her features. She never was proud about her looks. She didn't think them pretty, so the fact that someone else did was something really special to her. "Thank you. You're too kind." she said softly. Then she looked up, eager to be of some usefulness. She did know much of the gossip, as all the maids did. They spread it like a wildfire while they worked. "Oh yes!" she said, leaning closer as she was about to share a secret. "Master Wendel means to betroth lady Wendel to Mr. Marcoux!" She said, her voice excited as it was such a beautiful piece of gossip. "And of course, Mr Wendel needs company this summer." She shrugged.
Lacey looked up to see her mother, her face white as a sheet as she turned to look at her mother "I do not feel I am ready for marriage mother...I have not yet finished my studies or learned all there is to being a wife...please can't we consider this at a later time?" She couldn't believe this was happening she never wanted marriage and especially not to a wealthy manor heir.Marc was shocked to say the least but kept his face easy going as he enjoyed sharing that bit of gossip with her "oh yes? And this lady Wendell is she pretty and worthy to marry my master?" Marriage, he was getting tricked into marriage...bet it was his bloody mother's idea! He did not want marriage or the manor he wanted to tend horses and be free!
Her mother smiled gently, trying to offer her support. "I feel you are more than ready for this responsibility my dear." she said gently, sipping a bit of her tea as she sat by her husband. "You are mature and older than I was when I married your father." She said seriously. "I think you are a beautiful woman in the prime of your life, and you'll probably come to enjoy being married." she said, daintily adding sugar to her tea and sipping it again. James secretly felt bad for his sister, and very grateful that he was male and did not get married off.
Illiana nodded enthusiastic. "Very pretty, monsieur." she assured. "One of the most pretty in the whole town." she said, smiling proudly that she was able to serve such a woman. "She is a little ball of fire and spirit though." She added, glancing out the window at the rolling hills before looking back at him. "She scarcely wants to get married. Quite the strong minded girl." She smiled lightly, as secretly she looked up to lady Lacey Wendell.
Lacey sighed and shook her head still feeling pressured and nervous "not this summer right? I hardly know him mother...can't we just get to know eachother this summer? Fall in love as you and father did." Father smilrd at his beautiful wife "it took some time but we learned to be very fond of eachother. You are a beautiful girl and I know Master Marcoux will be very smitten, what do you think James?"Marcoux smiled to himself thinking about how Maxwell would enjoy courting such a beautiful girl all summer "indeed, but I don't think her beauty could compare to yours to be honest." He said and softly smiled at her "do you enjoy being a house maid?"
Mother smiled at her husband and patted his leg. "Yes, it did take some time. But that time came after we were married." She said honestly. "I hardly knew your father at all before we were engaged." she said seriously. "You have all summer to get to know him. Does that suit you dear?" she said gently. James shrugged. "Summer sounds like a good amount of time to get to know someone. From what I remember he is a nice man."
Illiana blushed heavily, unable to control the blush after that comment. He was too kind. She had never been paid a compliment like that one before. "I..." She swallowed. "I do enjoy being a house maid... I mean. Of all the positions available, it really is one of the better ones." she shrugged a little.
Lacey sighed and nodded hearing the carriages pull up "it appears that he has arrived." Just then the maids set the table for breakfast presenting the freshly pressed napkins and shiny silverware and dishes. The sweet buns came out sizzling and golden as they set each one on the family members plates James had extra cream as was promised.Marcoux nodded and looked out as he saw they arrived, he waited for the carriage to come to a stop before going to help Maxwell with the luggage and helping him down. Lacey went outside to greet him as she was directed "Sir Marcoux, I am Lady Lacey Wendell it is an honor for you to grace us with your presence this summer."
James accompanied her out, standing relaxed a little paces back so his sister could introduce herself. After all, it was she that was to be betrothed to him. So she had the honours of first introductions. Maxwell had stepped out of the carriage, walking up to the huge manor. He would get to stay here. And enjoy himself? It was more than a dream come true. It was just so strange and surreal he could hardly believe it. He smiled valiantly and bent, bowing to Lady Lacey. He kissed her knuckles gently before straightening. "The pleasure is all mine." he said, smiling brightly.
James shook Maxwell's hand. "I'm Mr. Wendell, but you can call me James. I do believe its been a while since either of us last saw you."
Maxwell nodded dutifully. "It has." he agreed.
Illiana had quickly gotten out of the cart and supervised the luggage, instructing which rooms for it to be brought to, before making sure the meal was ready for the family. "If you would all follow me." She requested. "I believe breakfast has been set."
Lacey smiled and flushed as he kissed her fingers, he was far more handsome then she thought he would be. He wasn't cocky like her brother and his friends she already felt attracted to him "care to come to breakfast? We are having delicious sweet buns and strawberry juice." She took his arm leading him to the table and smiling "so I...I was hoping we could go horseback riding this afternoon?"Marcoux smiled and followed her to the room as he set up the clothes and turned down the bed "where do the servants eat? For I am famished." He said honestly but made sure all of his duties were done before asking.
Maxwell smiled, being practically famished. Usually he ate earlier with the staff, so he was very hungry. "I would love to come to breakfast." He said honestly, hoping he didn't look too terribly hopeful. That would probably be taken as rude. Horse back riding? That was something Maxwell excelled at. "I'd love to, Miss Lacey." He said honestly. "Horseback sounds like a great sport." He said honestly. Illiana lead the family into the dining room, before dashing up the stairs to make sure the room was opened for when that nice footman would be able to get into the bedroom to set it up for Mr. Marcoux. "Down in the kitchens." She said honestly, smiling. "Follow me." she lead him back down into the lower floors where the kitchen was. "Lydia! Take a break!" she called, before moving into the dining room and joining the other staff at the table.
Lacey smiled "sounds wonderful Marcoux, and it's just Lacey." She insisted and took a lady like bite of the sweet roll and sip of tea "oh this is perfect, don't you think the cook has wonderful taste? James you should take a tour of the kitchen staff you've already met the rest of the manor isn't that a good idea father?" Lydia wiped her hands and sighed exhausted "don't you understand I have to get the steak marinated for lunch and get the wine grapes crushed for dinner with the smoked salmon. I don't get a break and that's what I love about my job."
Maxwell smiled brightly, nodding his consent. "Lacey it is then." He agreed, his eyes lighting up as he sat at the table and stared at the sweet rolls. They looked delectable! He carefully sliced off a bit and savoured it. Meanwhile, James was practically devouring his sweet cake just as quick as politeness would allow. "The kitchen staff?" He raised an eyebrow, wondering if she knew about his encounter in the garden. "Wherever would you get an idea like that?" he asked, pretending to be mildly curious.
Illiana laughed lightly, coming into the kitchen to grab Lydia's hand. "Leave some work for the other kitchen staff Lydi!" she said, pulling her in to eat with the rest of them. "You need to eat too!" she insisted, sitting down beside her. "what do you think of the guest?" she asked softly, eager to share news.
Lacey raised a brow and smiled lightly "well you eat the food, did I say eat I meant consume their food everyday. Don't you think you should know who is making you live in heaven three times a day correct? Go downstairs and say thank you."Lydia sighed and ate the food making a face "ugh this is subpar, why didn't anyone tell me?" She put her head in her hands groaning "I think of nothing but food around here..." She looked up at Iily "a guest? Any food allergies or is he just so picky he wants his toothpicks gold?"
James realized he was probably over assessing the situation, and making himself look foolish, so he smiled easily and nodded, finishing off the sweet roll. "Alright. I'll go down and thank them." He agreed, standing from the table and sliding his chair back. He set down his napkin, kissed his mothers cheek, and patted Lacey on the head as he passed. Then he headed down to the kitchens and asked for the head cook.Illiana grinned, shaking her head. "It's amazing Lydia! No one thinks it's sub par." She insisted. "And the guest seems to love your food. Stared at it like it was a lump of gold or something." She said seriously, her smile bright. When suddenly something caught the corner of her eye and she turned to see James standing there. He was undeniably handsome.... And asking to see Lydia! Illiana nudged her. "The master wishes to speak with you." She whispered
Lydia gasped hearing the voice she stood turning and wiping the food off of her apron "aye, I am here...was the food to your satisfaction? I could whip you up some oatmeal if you prefer?" She stuttered, why did he keep appearing in her life this morning didn't he know he turned her body and mind to mush? Marcoux raised a brow and smiled at Illiana "I feel like the master finds the cook very attractive and not just for the wooden spoon...goodness it's like a Greek play here, constant drama and intrigue."
James leaned against the doorframe to the kitchen and smiled softly. So this was the head cook. He thought she was just an assistant. But she ran the kitchen! That was a very prestigious position. "No, not at all! I loved the sweet rolls, and thank you for the extra cream." He said, smiling brightly. "You are quite the cook." he complimented. "My family sends their regards as well."Illiana smiled mischeviously, nodding her consent. "Woe to the cook if she falls for him though." She whispered under her breath. "The master never keeps girls very long." She smiled brightly, as if this was all good fun to watch. Work could get dull, so in all aspects, this was very fun to watch.
Lydia curtsied "thank you kindly sir, lunch will be marinated stake and ' tatos, will that do sir? The master of the house hasn't given me any requests in awhile, I try to come up with new recipes but if there is anything you truly like please let me know." She said it all in her cockney accent smiling at him. Marcoux smiled, it was fascinating watching this side of things. The servants all really knew what was going on in the house like a beehive of gossips. I e had to be careful of what would be said in what you assume to be confidence. He smiled at Illiana, she had such a bright temperament and was always happy he found her so much more fascinating then any poised lady of the manner.
James nodded, glancing around in curiosity at the kitchen. "That sounds lovely, Lydia, and if its as good as the rest of your food then it will probably be amazing." He assured. "But I do have a few ideas... if you would like to hear them. Maybe they could be tried on a later day?" he suggested, eager to talk to her about one of his favourite subjects... food.Illiana shared a knowing glance with Marcoux, before turning again to finish her oatmeal. She was hungry after all. "So. I don't think I ever caught your name." she said honestly, glancing over at him again. "Is it nice? Being a footman?" She asked, curious. She knew nothing of what it might be like, beyond the gossip of the maids, and it was always nice to get news right from the source.
Lydia nodded pulling on her cloak "I'm going to the market now, I'd love if you attended and we could discuss your ideas? Plus pick up the food needed so I don't spend any more time out of the kitchen then is permitted." She knew it was bold, but no one would give a second glance to a master and his cook. It wasn't as if he saw her as anything but a good cook and this was all food rated.Marcoux smiled "Maxwell, and yes it is rather nice. I am close to my master and I feel privileged being responsible of the duties to assist him. My father was a leather smith and that is what I thought I would have to become but the master and I were best friends as lads and permitted for me to become his footman." He told the story of Maxwell perfectly, it was odd pretending to be his friend but he rather enjoyed it so far.
James loved the idea and chance to take a little bit of time off, talking to her about her ideas, and maybe seeing a bit of her world for a while. He seldom got to do anything outside of his schedule. And if he got a chance to skip it, he would. "I'd love to come." He agreed, straightening from the door frame. "I'll grab my coat and meet you by the back door?" He suggested. He knew walking through the whole house again to get to the front door was not a good idea. Someone would probably intercept him and ask where he was going.Illiana listened to his story, enthralled. He was like her then. In a position that certainly wasn't deserved by birth. She felt like she could relate to that. "Sounds like you were very close." She agreed. "That is kind of the same reason that I am in this job." she said. "my mother was friends with one of the ladies maids. When my mother died, the ladies maid recommended me to her Ladyship." she explained. She shrugged a little. "And now I'm here."
Lydia nodded and smiled grabbing the grocery list and basket as she smiled over ay Illiana and Marcoux "I will be heading to the market, do you need anything while I'm out. This does not give you permission to gossip my reputation away." She warned but was still smiling as she saw him by the back door "I'll take the servant carriage and we can tie the horses down by the dock they like it down there." She hitched up the small carriage and sat in the driver seat patting the seat for her to join her.Marcoux nodded intruiged "the ladyshiop seems very merciful and I am very sorry to hear about your mother. I lost my mother when I was a boy." Also speaking for Maxwell, the poor boy had a history and he felt a little uneasy sharing it from first person view especially because he had such a cushy life.
James nodded in agreement. He knew that was a good idea. And it would probably seen as completely scandalous for them to take the same carriage. But did he care? Not in the slightest. Fixing the collar of his coat, he hopped up onto the driver seat with her, happy to be outside instead of inside the carriage this time. It was an adventure. He smiled, happy to join her on this trip. "Thanks for taking me along."Illiana beamed. "I don't need anything, but thankyou! Have fun!" she winked and then turned back to her breakfast. She smiled sadly at Maxwell, shaking her head. "It's alright. I am sorry for your mother as well." Here was another place in which she related to this boy. Maybe they had more in common than she first thought. "We do what we can, right?" she shrugged. "I'm not complaining."
Lydia smiled at him "well you seem to be the biggest fan of my cooking, might as well take you along and show you how it all comes together." She clicked her tongue and let the horses started to gallop out of the gate and to the streets she turned to look at him as they drove "so what are these ideas? Hope I'm skilled enough for them."Marcoux nodded and saw the ringing bells on the board above their heads "ah looks like we are needed after all, I shall see you again at dinner I assume?" Meals seemed to be the only time they could have a real break. He ran to Maxwell's room and smiled "how can I be of service sir?"
James nodded in agreement, as he was both a huge fan of his cooking, as well as very enthusiastic to see what sort of things went into the food. Then he shrugged lightly. "I once tried this desert at an Italian party. It was called a pavlova." He said, smiling a little. "It was like this dense creamy cake with whipped cream on top and raspberry garnishes." he shrugged. "That was just one thing I was hoping for. And maybe flatbread sandwiches. The flatbread I tried up in yorkshire was the most perfect bread you'll ever find." he said, closing his eyes as he thought of it. Illiana jumped up from breakfast and nodded hurriedly. "Of course!" She said, smiling brightly. "I'll see you then."
Maxwell looked rather worried when Marcoux came in, and he stood. "Are you really sure this is a good idea?" he asked, pacing the room that was his, but not really his. It was meant to be Marcoux's. "I hate lying to all these people. I... I mean its fun. But what happens when we have to go back to our real lives? Do we just say... sorry, I'm not who you think I am?"
Lydia listened intently and started to write down everything that she would need to make this dessert. "Sounds easy to make, I am good at dem pastries my father was a famous chef for the king till he got hung. I was lucky to get dis job...I was six when I learned to cook, it's an art and you don't have to speak goods." She bartered with the butcher "you call this a leg? I call it a spindly knitting needle there ain't no meat for that kind of money!"Marcoux sighed putting his hands on his shoulders "it's just for the summer, then I marry the girl and go back to my boorish life. But this maid girl she's amazing your world is so fascinating and entertaining while the royality just stsy upstairs sipping their tea. Do this for me Maxwell please..."
James followed her into the market, glad she thought she could make the desert. It had been so good when he had first tried it. He had no idea she was the daughter of the king's cook. "Sorry about your father." he said politely, standing back as she bartered with the butcher for some meat. He was impressed with her assertiveness. She certainly had a spine. Maxwell sighed, nodding slightly. He thought the exact opposite way that his friend did. The lady he had met was positively wonderful. "Alright. Just for the summer. But I do hate deceiving everyone." He said honestly. The he smiled. "So you fancy a maid, do you?" he asked, looking around for the riding gear. He was supposed to go riding this afternoon.
Lydia shrugged a shoulder and smiled as she got the meat she needed and packed it away as they went to the baker "he bounced the bed with the queen and had me." She said simply and inhaled the heavenly scent "you know how you find good bread?" She asked him suddenly picking up a beignet and pointing it at his chest playfully.Marcoux helped him with the riding gear and chuckled "you are fond of that Lacey yes? She is pretty but from what I heard she doesn't want to marry any manor man. Maybe she'll fall in love with a footman?" He smiled and pat his shoulders "I do fancy a house maid, a ladies maid for your Lady Lacey."
Lacey smiled having Illiana change her into her riding uniform "do you think he's handsome? I know you picked him up...though you are new."
James's eyes widened a little. She was a princess! Practically anyways. Being an unwanted child took away that right. But she still had the heritage. He was glad for the change in topic, to something lighter. He shook his head, looking down at the bread she had poked at him. "No, I don't. How do you do that?" he asked, curious. Maxwell raised an eyebrow, wondering how that would work out. A footman with a lady, and a master with a maid? It was practically unheard of. And here they were trying to plan it out. Maybe Lacey could be Marcoux's pretend wife. Maybe... maybe it would work... "I don't know. It's pretty risky." He said, looking in the mirror to make sure he looked alright.
Illiana straightened Lacey's hair, and made sure she looked alright in her riding uniform. She felt positively wonderful, being chosen to help out Lacey, and she making sure she did a good job. "I do, m'lady." she said seriously. "He seems very nice." She was trying to be honest.
Lydia smiled "most would say it's the smell or the taste...no it's the sound" she crunched it softly and smiled and crinkled her nose it happiness "do you hear that? Just the right crunch and air flush..." She fed him a piece after she bought it and smiled "good for the sandwiches?" She asked her eyes hopeful she wanted to make everything just as perfect as he imagined it.Marcoux squeezed his shoulders and smiled, "you fit the role perfectfly Maxwell, you are more of a Lord then I'll ever be. Take Bolten with you, he's a good horse and at sunset you should do something romantic...not kiss her, not yet...but make it memorable." He smiled brushing off the suit coat and shined his boots "am I good at this at least?"
Lacey smiled and hugged her maid "it is so good to have a maid my age, like a friend. We can talk and I don't usually get that opportunity except for my brother..." She sighed braiding her hair "I'm supposed to be marrying him...marriage...and then he'll want children I have not had my first kiss!"
James watched her in her element. She was so happy and excited, it was a joy to watch. He listened as she crinkled the bread and he grinned, nodding. It did sound good. Not that he would tell the difference between good and bad, but this one sounded pretty good to him. He took the piece of bread from her fingers and chewed it in satisfaction. "It's perfect!" he agreed, meaning it completely. He was amazed at how well she seemed to find the perfect ingredients for a recipe. Maxwell grinned then and shook his head. "And you make a great footman. But honestly, I think we just envy eachother because every man is always wishing for a life he can not have." He shrugged. "But for now, this is all great fun." He nodded at the suggestion of a horse and the suggestions for the evening. "well. I've never had much time for romance. How on earth am I supposed to think up something romantic?" he inquired, raising an eyebrow. He stood still as Marcoux worked.
Illiana beamed, glad that Lady Lacey was happy with her work. "I'm very happy to please m'lady. You certainly are a joy to serve." She helped fix the uniform so it sat properly on her shoulders, before holding up a small pair of diamond earrings that would look nice, but not be heavy for riding. "Will these work?" She asked, before returning to the conversation. "Marriage sounds daunting, I'm sure." She agreed. "But you do have all summer to get to know him. Who knows, something romantic might happen before then." She smiled brightly.
Lydia smiled and nodded "I think so as well..." She bought a few more loafs of bread and continued to the produce picking up each fruit and examining it before shaking her head "this isn't good, you are selling month old fruit!" She told the seller he slapped her hard across the face knocking her down as apples toppled as well turning to mush as they fell. She spat at him and stood continuing as if nothing happened "not buying from that plank again..."Marcoux smiled "you'll know...there's just a moment that you know exactly what to say and how to make her feel more beautiful then that sunset." He stood up "you are done master, have a good time." He said with a wink "I'll be here making sure that everything is cared for here."
Lacey shook her head "nothing to prove wealth or status Illiana." She insisted and smiled "I want romance...the kind found in literature and written in every century...I want love, I don't just want to be fond of my husband I want him to be my everything."
