Thank you so much for reading the story so far! There will be a hiatus while I work on the next part of the story. It will pick up when the boys are in their teens!
For those of you who are interested, here's a family tree, it contains a spoiler. It includes MOST of the kids born in this generation. I wont be updating this family tree until all the women in Gen D are too old to have babies. I wanted to try to be realistic in representing the size of families in the time this legacy is supposed to be set, but as you can see, it's getting a bit ridiculous. So, I have removed the trips and quads hack, I think.... I may have just decreased their chances to 1 or 2 percent. I have still kept the "try for baby on Sunday and Wednesday" rule.
If anyone would like a Family Tree done in this style for their Legacy, please feel free to contact me in the comments!
Enjoy!
Family Tree
Saturday, April 17, 2010
It is his will.
Denah awoke the next morning with the sun shining on her face. She felt sore, and couldn't remember how she had gotten in bed. She stretched and tried to remember the last 24 hours, since things were a bit hazy for her. She looked out the window and watched a bird on the window sill feed her chick, then she remembered the night before. She let out an anguished sigh, covered her head and rolled over.
She heard the rustle of dresses and figured one of her lades had come to get her dressed for lunch, as was her daily routine.
"Please, not today. This is the WORST of days to show my face"
"I hardly see how that can be possible" replied Queen Jenny "you delivered in the night."
Denah sat up and found Jenny and Danica at her bedside, each of them holding baby with a smile on their faces. Denah rubbed her eyes and looked at them confused.
“Why would you bring that’s trollop's son to me?”
Their faces beamed, then fell, then beamed again. The looked at each other, and silently decided Jenny would tell Denah what happened since she clearly did not remember.
“First off darling, these are your sons.”
“My sons? I have two sons?” Denah was overcome with relief. She was terrified she would fail in her duty again, but with two sons it was unlikely the throne would pass to any ‘pretender’. Denah pulled herself up, and took her first son from Jenny. It was like looking in a mirror. She saw nothing of Dixon, and was happy.
“I shall call you Edward!” She said with a smile. She kissed every part of his face and looked up at Jenny.
“What’s the second?”
“That news is not so happy… Helen died in childbirth…”
“I hardly see that as sad news” Denah said quietly
“The doctor was able to get two more sons from her, and they survived the night.”
Denah’s jaw went slack “Three sons?...No… No, I will not let that woman steal this day from me. I have two daughters and two LEGITIMATE sons. She has nothing, and she is dead.”
She handed Edward back to Jenny and took her other son to examine him. “You shall be Ephraim, even though technically you’re number 7.” The three of them laughed.
“So what will happen to the three Walton children?”
“Well,” Jenny started “your husband has decided to claim the children as his own, though to what advantage I do not know. He wants them to remain here. I tried to convince him to send them back to their legal father, but he would not hear it. I’m sorry.”
“Don't apologize. It’s his fault their mother is dead now, and not in a home next to the textile factory…. I honestly never know what that man thinks.”
“No one does. But it is his will.”
“Indeed it is his will.”
She heard the rustle of dresses and figured one of her lades had come to get her dressed for lunch, as was her daily routine.
"Please, not today. This is the WORST of days to show my face"
"I hardly see how that can be possible" replied Queen Jenny "you delivered in the night."
Denah sat up and found Jenny and Danica at her bedside, each of them holding baby with a smile on their faces. Denah rubbed her eyes and looked at them confused.
“Why would you bring that’s trollop's son to me?”
Their faces beamed, then fell, then beamed again. The looked at each other, and silently decided Jenny would tell Denah what happened since she clearly did not remember.
“First off darling, these are your sons.”
“My sons? I have two sons?” Denah was overcome with relief. She was terrified she would fail in her duty again, but with two sons it was unlikely the throne would pass to any ‘pretender’. Denah pulled herself up, and took her first son from Jenny. It was like looking in a mirror. She saw nothing of Dixon, and was happy.
“I shall call you Edward!” She said with a smile. She kissed every part of his face and looked up at Jenny.
“What’s the second?”
“That news is not so happy… Helen died in childbirth…”
“I hardly see that as sad news” Denah said quietly
“The doctor was able to get two more sons from her, and they survived the night.”
Denah’s jaw went slack “Three sons?...No… No, I will not let that woman steal this day from me. I have two daughters and two LEGITIMATE sons. She has nothing, and she is dead.”
She handed Edward back to Jenny and took her other son to examine him. “You shall be Ephraim, even though technically you’re number 7.” The three of them laughed.
“So what will happen to the three Walton children?”
“Well,” Jenny started “your husband has decided to claim the children as his own, though to what advantage I do not know. He wants them to remain here. I tried to convince him to send them back to their legal father, but he would not hear it. I’m sorry.”
“Don't apologize. It’s his fault their mother is dead now, and not in a home next to the textile factory…. I honestly never know what that man thinks.”
“No one does. But it is his will.”
“Indeed it is his will.”
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
I will give this Kingdom a son
The first day of spring arrived, but there were no signs of renewal and joy anywhere in the Castle or Kingdom. King Caleb West had died recently, and everyone was settling into Dixon's new role of King. One of Dixon's first changes in the Castle was the staffing assignment. The staff were still adjusting to the changes, and Dixon was quite happy with himself. He seemed in lighter spirits as Denah’s pregnancy progressed, and was especially happy to see Helen serving him his breakfast again. He knew Denah hated to see Helen every morning, but he didn’t care. He was King, and this was his Kingdom. When another serving girl appeared with breakfast he was annoyed and disapoined.
“Where’s He-… didn’t I move you?”
“You did, your Grace,” the girl replied timidly “Helen is in the servants quarters… she’ll be havin’ the baby any hour now”
“What?!” Denah and Dixon replied in unison.
“I thought you knew, she’s been having terrible pains all night…midwife says she’s not makin' no progress… we’re all worried for her..”
The colour drained from Denah’s face. Is this the dark cloud that’s settled over the castle? She hated to wish ill on another person, but the death of Helen and any child in birth would be just fine with her.
The dowager Queen could see the concern on Dixon and Denah’s faces, but felt no emotion for the woman who threatened her late Husband’s kingdom.
“Well we're all worried for the woman… just bring us our breakfast and be on your way”
“Thank you Madam” she replied quickly.
The entire castle spent the rest of the day going about their business quickly and quietly, waiting for news of Helen.
-----------------------------------------------------
The following morning, a new serving girl arrived with a simple breakfast, and a somber face to match that of Dixon. Jenny hated to be out of the loop and demanded to know what has going on.
“Helen has delivered a boy, but still suffers greatly. The midwife has called for a doctor.”
Denah and the Dowager Queen both paled at the news that the child was a boy.
Dixon's face brightened a little“I have a son”
Denah burst into tears and ran up to her rooms.
“Congratulations.” Jenny said bitterly.
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Denah’s sobs could be heard throughout the castle through the afternoon and well into the evening. By nightfall her cries of anguish were mixed with the cries of labour, she had spent the entire day rambling about failing the King, and that the kingdom would be lost to a bastard pretender. When the pain was too much to bear she ordered her ladies to fetch the midwife. Danica had been receiving regular updates on Helen, but she didn't dare share the news with Denah in her fragile state. When the Midwife arrived, her first question was about Helen, but the midwife quickly and cleverly avoided answering. As the night wore on Denah became more weak, and when the time came she barely had the energy to push. She had lost all hope.
“What’s the point!” she cried “Son or Daughter he doesn't love me! I am lost!”
Danica and Jenny shared a look, they were on either side of Denah and were trying to coach her birth, but they both knew where this could lead.
“You must be strong” Jenny said “Your daughters need their mother! Who will find them good husbands? Who will raise this new son to be a good King?”
Denah looked over to her mother in law with listless eyes “Do you know something I don’t?”
“No woman could be so unlucky. You must have faith and be strong! Give birth to your son!”
Denah could feel the last of her strength come to the surface, Jenny was right. Even if it’s the last thing I do, she thought, I will give this Kingdom a son…
“Where’s He-… didn’t I move you?”
“You did, your Grace,” the girl replied timidly “Helen is in the servants quarters… she’ll be havin’ the baby any hour now”
“What?!” Denah and Dixon replied in unison.
“I thought you knew, she’s been having terrible pains all night…midwife says she’s not makin' no progress… we’re all worried for her..”
The colour drained from Denah’s face. Is this the dark cloud that’s settled over the castle? She hated to wish ill on another person, but the death of Helen and any child in birth would be just fine with her.
The dowager Queen could see the concern on Dixon and Denah’s faces, but felt no emotion for the woman who threatened her late Husband’s kingdom.
“Well we're all worried for the woman… just bring us our breakfast and be on your way”
“Thank you Madam” she replied quickly.
The entire castle spent the rest of the day going about their business quickly and quietly, waiting for news of Helen.
-----------------------------------------------------
The following morning, a new serving girl arrived with a simple breakfast, and a somber face to match that of Dixon. Jenny hated to be out of the loop and demanded to know what has going on.
“Helen has delivered a boy, but still suffers greatly. The midwife has called for a doctor.”
Denah and the Dowager Queen both paled at the news that the child was a boy.
Dixon's face brightened a little“I have a son”
Denah burst into tears and ran up to her rooms.
“Congratulations.” Jenny said bitterly.
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Denah’s sobs could be heard throughout the castle through the afternoon and well into the evening. By nightfall her cries of anguish were mixed with the cries of labour, she had spent the entire day rambling about failing the King, and that the kingdom would be lost to a bastard pretender. When the pain was too much to bear she ordered her ladies to fetch the midwife. Danica had been receiving regular updates on Helen, but she didn't dare share the news with Denah in her fragile state. When the Midwife arrived, her first question was about Helen, but the midwife quickly and cleverly avoided answering. As the night wore on Denah became more weak, and when the time came she barely had the energy to push. She had lost all hope.
“What’s the point!” she cried “Son or Daughter he doesn't love me! I am lost!”
Danica and Jenny shared a look, they were on either side of Denah and were trying to coach her birth, but they both knew where this could lead.
“You must be strong” Jenny said “Your daughters need their mother! Who will find them good husbands? Who will raise this new son to be a good King?”
Denah looked over to her mother in law with listless eyes “Do you know something I don’t?”
“No woman could be so unlucky. You must have faith and be strong! Give birth to your son!”
Denah could feel the last of her strength come to the surface, Jenny was right. Even if it’s the last thing I do, she thought, I will give this Kingdom a son…
Monday, March 29, 2010
A horrible feeling
The following weeks passed excitedly after the royal pregnancy was announced. Unfortunately, Denah’s good mood was marred by whispers amongst the servants. Though Helen was keeping quiet, out of trouble, and out of Dixon's bed, people couldn’t notice how snug her clothes had gotten, even more snug than Denah’s. The King had decreed that no one was to discuss the circumstances of Helen’s return, but Dennah knew she had his favour. She seized her opportunity when she had another chance encounter with Helen.
“I noticed you are...withchild”
“Yes My Lady, it’s true.”
Denah quickly did the math in her head.
“You’re quite large… how far along are you?”
Helen knew she needed to be careful “Not too far My Lady, though the midwife suspects two babies.” Helen knew that would hurt Denah. The timing was just right to put the paternity in question.
“And who is the father?” Denah could sling dirt as well as she could take it.
“Why, my husband of course.” Helen replied with a smirk.
“Is that right?... Well, I wish you a safe pregnancy and easy birth."
“The same to you, My Lady” Helen bowed her head and stepped to the side to allow Denah to pass.
Denah took a few steps, then turned back to Helen.
"I do wonder...why would a man send his pregnant wife away?"
Helen kept her eyes on the floor and cooly replied
"That is something only the King will ever know."
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Both pregnancies progressed without complication, and the castle was buzzing with rumours and bets over the paternity of Helen’s child, and which of the King’s ladies would give birth first. Denah tried to ignore all of the terrible things she overheard, but she couldn’t help but worry. She confessed her fears to Danica, who was also pregnant again.
“What if it’s another girl? What if it’s two more girls? He’ll send me away!”
“Denah! Stay calm, you’ll upset the baby! He won’t send you away, The King and Queen love you too much.”
“And if that woman delivers first? I’m almost certain Dixon is the father, and if she has a son, guess where would that put my son?”
“It wouldn’t put your son anywhere, because any children that woman has will be bastards without claim to anything.”
“No, it would put my son’s succession in danger. Her son could claim first born rights!”
“And who would accept that bastard as their King? You are the favoured woman in this Denah, you need not worry.”
“I have a horrible feeling about all of it Danica.”
“Please Denah, lets talk about something light! Have you thought of names?”
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Next post!
Helen, the servant girl gives birth!
“I noticed you are...withchild”
“Yes My Lady, it’s true.”
Denah quickly did the math in her head.
“You’re quite large… how far along are you?”
Helen knew she needed to be careful “Not too far My Lady, though the midwife suspects two babies.” Helen knew that would hurt Denah. The timing was just right to put the paternity in question.
“And who is the father?” Denah could sling dirt as well as she could take it.
“Why, my husband of course.” Helen replied with a smirk.
“Is that right?... Well, I wish you a safe pregnancy and easy birth."
“The same to you, My Lady” Helen bowed her head and stepped to the side to allow Denah to pass.
Denah took a few steps, then turned back to Helen.
"I do wonder...why would a man send his pregnant wife away?"
Helen kept her eyes on the floor and cooly replied
"That is something only the King will ever know."
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Both pregnancies progressed without complication, and the castle was buzzing with rumours and bets over the paternity of Helen’s child, and which of the King’s ladies would give birth first. Denah tried to ignore all of the terrible things she overheard, but she couldn’t help but worry. She confessed her fears to Danica, who was also pregnant again.
“What if it’s another girl? What if it’s two more girls? He’ll send me away!”
“Denah! Stay calm, you’ll upset the baby! He won’t send you away, The King and Queen love you too much.”
“And if that woman delivers first? I’m almost certain Dixon is the father, and if she has a son, guess where would that put my son?”
“It wouldn’t put your son anywhere, because any children that woman has will be bastards without claim to anything.”
“No, it would put my son’s succession in danger. Her son could claim first born rights!”
“And who would accept that bastard as their King? You are the favoured woman in this Denah, you need not worry.”
“I have a horrible feeling about all of it Danica.”
“Please Denah, lets talk about something light! Have you thought of names?”
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Next post!
Helen, the servant girl gives birth!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
An unexpected turn of events
Over the following months Dixon made a point of lying with Denah at least twice a week. He was determined to have a son, and wasn’t going to let his emotions stand in the way of his duty to his kingdom. Denah didn’t mind the loveless marriage, she knew what she was destined for and decided not to fight her fate anymore.
The castle awoke to a commotion mid fall when a carriage arrived unexpectedly at the front gate. Denah was woken up by raised voices, and quickly dressed and went to her window. She could hardly believe her eyes. Helen Walton was standing in the courtyard. A man she did not know, whom she assumed to be Helen’s husband, was shouting and throwing bags out of the carriage. The man left before any of the castle servants could address him, and Helen was left standing alone and crying in the courtyard. Denah felt sorry for her. She knew exactly how it felt to be tossed aside by the man who was supposed to love you. Her emotions were short lived, as she knew the exact circumstances of Helen’s marriage.
Denah stood at the window for a few minutes watching Helen. She looked... different. Helen turned her head up to the window Denah was standing in and they locked eyes. Helen's cheeks were red and stained with tears, but she still managed to pull a smug smile for Denah. Something was going on, and there was a siniser reason behind Helen's return. Before she could figure it out, the door to Denah's bedchamber burst open and 3 of her handmaidens fell into the room.
"My Lady!" one said breathlesly "Miss Walton has returned!"
"Yes, I see that.... help me dress."
The royal family received Helen formally, and King Caleb silently read a letter from Helen’s husband. When he finished reading the letter he looked angrily from Helen to Dixon, then back to Helen.
“Your new post will be in the kitchens. You are not to leave the kitchen quarters unless you are going to your own bed, do you understand?”
“Yes, my Lord” Helen replied quietly. She walked out quietly and was embraced by the staff, happy to see her returned, but unaware of the circumstances. Denah looked in disbelief at her father in law.
“The truth will be out soon enough” was all he said.
The following week Danica arrived for her visit, and Denah filled her in on everything she knew, which wasn’t much. None of their servants knew what had happened either, and Helen had kept her story to herself as instructed by the King. There was also important Kingdom news, Denah was pregnant again.
The castle awoke to a commotion mid fall when a carriage arrived unexpectedly at the front gate. Denah was woken up by raised voices, and quickly dressed and went to her window. She could hardly believe her eyes. Helen Walton was standing in the courtyard. A man she did not know, whom she assumed to be Helen’s husband, was shouting and throwing bags out of the carriage. The man left before any of the castle servants could address him, and Helen was left standing alone and crying in the courtyard. Denah felt sorry for her. She knew exactly how it felt to be tossed aside by the man who was supposed to love you. Her emotions were short lived, as she knew the exact circumstances of Helen’s marriage.
Denah stood at the window for a few minutes watching Helen. She looked... different. Helen turned her head up to the window Denah was standing in and they locked eyes. Helen's cheeks were red and stained with tears, but she still managed to pull a smug smile for Denah. Something was going on, and there was a siniser reason behind Helen's return. Before she could figure it out, the door to Denah's bedchamber burst open and 3 of her handmaidens fell into the room.
"My Lady!" one said breathlesly "Miss Walton has returned!"
"Yes, I see that.... help me dress."
The royal family received Helen formally, and King Caleb silently read a letter from Helen’s husband. When he finished reading the letter he looked angrily from Helen to Dixon, then back to Helen.
“Your new post will be in the kitchens. You are not to leave the kitchen quarters unless you are going to your own bed, do you understand?”
“Yes, my Lord” Helen replied quietly. She walked out quietly and was embraced by the staff, happy to see her returned, but unaware of the circumstances. Denah looked in disbelief at her father in law.
“The truth will be out soon enough” was all he said.
The following week Danica arrived for her visit, and Denah filled her in on everything she knew, which wasn’t much. None of their servants knew what had happened either, and Helen had kept her story to herself as instructed by the King. There was also important Kingdom news, Denah was pregnant again.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Give me my son! *Content Warning*
The following day Denah called on Danica again to tell her about Helen Walton. They decided the best way to get information was to employ their most trusted servants as spies. Within a few weeks their suspicions were confirmed. Helen Walton was well known in her village for being ‘friendly’, and the dispute between her parents and the parents of her fiancée was over her virginity. Helen swore she was untouched, and no one would come forward and admit to lying with her, despite the rampant rumors. Denah and Danica decided they would write the families in secret and pay a handsome fee to be rid of Helen once and for all.
Two weeks later Helen left Legacyville Castle to be married. The entire household saw her off. Denah, King Caleb and Queen jenny were all very happy to see her gone, while most of the men servants and Dixon watched dejectedly as her carriage rolled away from the castle. Denah was quite happy to have her husband to herself again, and was looking forward to him in her bed again. She wanted to prove to him that she could give him the son he so desired.
Denah got her wish that night, but not the way she was expecting. Denah was settled in bed, reading a book when her bedroom door burst open. Dixon was in the doorway, sweaty, shirt unbuttoned, an almost empty bottle of rum in his hand. “Are you happy Now?” he slurred
“Pardon me, my love?”
“She’s gone! Are you happy now?! You got what you wanted, you’ve got me all to yourself!”
“Dixon please, stop shouting you’re scaring me!”
Dixon stumbled into her room and dropped his rum. “You got what you wanted now give me what I want!”
Denah suddenly realized what Dixon meant and pulled her blankets up around her neck. “Please don’t do this Dixon!” Dixon climbed into the bed and threw himself on top of Denah. “Give me what I want” he whispered into her hear “give me my son.” Denah knew there was nothing she could do to stop what was about to happen. All she could do was close her eyes and cry.
Two weeks later Helen left Legacyville Castle to be married. The entire household saw her off. Denah, King Caleb and Queen jenny were all very happy to see her gone, while most of the men servants and Dixon watched dejectedly as her carriage rolled away from the castle. Denah was quite happy to have her husband to herself again, and was looking forward to him in her bed again. She wanted to prove to him that she could give him the son he so desired.
Denah got her wish that night, but not the way she was expecting. Denah was settled in bed, reading a book when her bedroom door burst open. Dixon was in the doorway, sweaty, shirt unbuttoned, an almost empty bottle of rum in his hand. “Are you happy Now?” he slurred
“Pardon me, my love?”
“She’s gone! Are you happy now?! You got what you wanted, you’ve got me all to yourself!”
“Dixon please, stop shouting you’re scaring me!”
Dixon stumbled into her room and dropped his rum. “You got what you wanted now give me what I want!”
Denah suddenly realized what Dixon meant and pulled her blankets up around her neck. “Please don’t do this Dixon!” Dixon climbed into the bed and threw himself on top of Denah. “Give me what I want” he whispered into her hear “give me my son.” Denah knew there was nothing she could do to stop what was about to happen. All she could do was close her eyes and cry.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Yes, My Lady
“I have failed. He doesn’t love me.” Denah had finally come out of the depths of her grief and called for Danica. She had hardly been able to care for her twin girls and relied heavily on the wet nurses and nannies. She cried into Danica’s shoulder “What have I done to deserve this? Why am I being punished?” “Oh Denah…” She couldn’t think of anything positive to say. They both knew that this is the worst thing that could have happened. Danica stayed with Denah over the next few weeks to help with the rigors of motherhood.
By early summer, Denah was once again in good spirits and took breakfast with her family for the first time since Princess Etta and Princess Elsa were born. King Caleb and Queen Jenny were happy to see her, and made light conversation of the goings on in the castle and Kingdom that she had missed. Dixon didn’t acknowledge her presence, which she expected and was not upset by. What Denah didn’t expect was the new servant girl that brought out breakfast.
She couldn’t help but notice the way she paid special attention to the way she laid Dixon’s plate in front of him, or the icy stares she garnered from the King and Queen. Though young, she was no fool and knew there was something going on between the two of them. Denah also notied how low the neck of the girl's dress was, and the ways she swayed her hips whenever Dixon was around. Denah knew better than to make a scene in front of anyone, so when she passed by the new girl unattended in the hall one day she made her move.
“You, what’s your name?”
“Helen Walton, my Lady” she said with a smug smile. She knew she was virtually untouchable.
Denah, paused for a moment and looked down on the young girl. She knew exactly what was going on and had to find a way to get rid of this girl.
“I imagine a young girl like yourself would be interested in an advantageous marriage?”
“Of course my lady… but I am already betrothed.”
Denah was surprised. “Is that so? When is the wedding?”
“No date’s been set yet, my lady, there is a dispute...”
This piqued Denah’s interest. There were only two things that would hold up a wedding in this kingdom: A dowry, and a question of Virginity. Denah motioned for Helen to continue.
“The dowry… my father is a fisherman, and my fiancé works in textiles. He’s having trouble acquiring the items that have been requested”
Denah could see right through the lie, and Helen knew it.
“Very well then, I hope your families can come to some sort of accord. It would be a shame for your financee to turn his eye to another woman, don’t you think? A beautiful young girl like yourself, cast aside on a whim…”
“Yes my Lady, it would be a shame.”
The two women looked each other in the eye, and for a moment it seemed the hallway would ignite with Denah’s fury.
“If I catch you so much as looking in my husband’s direction I’ll have you whipped to within an inch of your life.Do you understand?”
Helen smirked and replied “Yes, my Lady.”
By early summer, Denah was once again in good spirits and took breakfast with her family for the first time since Princess Etta and Princess Elsa were born. King Caleb and Queen Jenny were happy to see her, and made light conversation of the goings on in the castle and Kingdom that she had missed. Dixon didn’t acknowledge her presence, which she expected and was not upset by. What Denah didn’t expect was the new servant girl that brought out breakfast.
She couldn’t help but notice the way she paid special attention to the way she laid Dixon’s plate in front of him, or the icy stares she garnered from the King and Queen. Though young, she was no fool and knew there was something going on between the two of them. Denah also notied how low the neck of the girl's dress was, and the ways she swayed her hips whenever Dixon was around. Denah knew better than to make a scene in front of anyone, so when she passed by the new girl unattended in the hall one day she made her move.
“You, what’s your name?”“Helen Walton, my Lady” she said with a smug smile. She knew she was virtually untouchable.
Denah, paused for a moment and looked down on the young girl. She knew exactly what was going on and had to find a way to get rid of this girl.
“I imagine a young girl like yourself would be interested in an advantageous marriage?”
“Of course my lady… but I am already betrothed.”
Denah was surprised. “Is that so? When is the wedding?”
“No date’s been set yet, my lady, there is a dispute...”
This piqued Denah’s interest. There were only two things that would hold up a wedding in this kingdom: A dowry, and a question of Virginity. Denah motioned for Helen to continue.
“The dowry… my father is a fisherman, and my fiancé works in textiles. He’s having trouble acquiring the items that have been requested”
Denah could see right through the lie, and Helen knew it.
“Very well then, I hope your families can come to some sort of accord. It would be a shame for your financee to turn his eye to another woman, don’t you think? A beautiful young girl like yourself, cast aside on a whim…”
“Yes my Lady, it would be a shame.”
The two women looked each other in the eye, and for a moment it seemed the hallway would ignite with Denah’s fury.
“If I catch you so much as looking in my husband’s direction I’ll have you whipped to within an inch of your life.Do you understand?”
Helen smirked and replied “Yes, my Lady.”
Saturday, January 30, 2010
A child is born
The castle was in an uproar when Denah went into labour. The entire household was gathered and waited patiently outside the bedroom door. The labour was long, and very painful. When Denah finally let out a gut wrenching scream everyone outside the door held their breath. After a moment the sound that they had all been waiting for , a baby’s cries. The hallway erupted in cheer and servants shouted “Long live the Queen!” They didn’t yet know if they had been given a Prince or Princess, but they didn’t care, it had been so long without a baby in the household.
Their joy was short lived though, Denah began to scream again, and confusion erupted from within the room. Dixon was standing expectantly at the door, waiting for the midwife to present him with his son, and when she didn’t arrive he began to get angry. He pounded on the door “Give me my son!!” A scared apprentice opened the door a crack to face him “Please my lord, there are some…. Complications. You must be patient.” Dixon tried to force his way in, but was forced back by the apprentice and the thick smell of blood in the air. He could hear Denah breathing heavily, but couldn’t see her. “Denah!” He shouted. The apprentice pushed him back “We will call you when you are needed!”. The door slammed millimeters from his face. He could barely contain his rage, but he knew he had no place in a room where a woman was giving birth.
The entire household sat in the hall outside Denah’s rooms. For 45 minutes they didn’t know what to do, and they all feared the worst. Finally, after more grunts and groans from Denah, something no one in the hall was expecting, the cries from a second baby. Dixon couldn’t contain himself any more, he bust into the room. “Twins? Twins?! Please tell me this woman has given me the greatest gift of twin boys to receive this kingdom!” But the mood in the room was somber, and Denah was crying silently. The midwife and apprentice carried his babies to him “Twin Girls my Lord. You have been blessed with two beautiful girls.”
Their joy was short lived though, Denah began to scream again, and confusion erupted from within the room. Dixon was standing expectantly at the door, waiting for the midwife to present him with his son, and when she didn’t arrive he began to get angry. He pounded on the door “Give me my son!!” A scared apprentice opened the door a crack to face him “Please my lord, there are some…. Complications. You must be patient.” Dixon tried to force his way in, but was forced back by the apprentice and the thick smell of blood in the air. He could hear Denah breathing heavily, but couldn’t see her. “Denah!” He shouted. The apprentice pushed him back “We will call you when you are needed!”. The door slammed millimeters from his face. He could barely contain his rage, but he knew he had no place in a room where a woman was giving birth.
The entire household sat in the hall outside Denah’s rooms. For 45 minutes they didn’t know what to do, and they all feared the worst. Finally, after more grunts and groans from Denah, something no one in the hall was expecting, the cries from a second baby. Dixon couldn’t contain himself any more, he bust into the room. “Twins? Twins?! Please tell me this woman has given me the greatest gift of twin boys to receive this kingdom!” But the mood in the room was somber, and Denah was crying silently. The midwife and apprentice carried his babies to him “Twin Girls my Lord. You have been blessed with two beautiful girls.”
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
On his best behaviour
From that day on Dixon was on his best behaviour. He spent every night in Denah’s bed reading his ‘son’ to sleep, and made sure there were fresh flowers in her room every morning. He took days off work to wait on her every need, and rubbed her feet every night when they started to swell.
Denah and Danica's lunch dates continued, of course, and she made sure to keep her sister up to date with everything that went on with Dixon. Denah knew better than to fall for his affections a second time. To have your heart broken twice by the same man was stupidity on the woman’s part. “Just entertain him, let him be happy, and when you give him his son you’ll be free to do whatever you like!” “What if it’s a girl?” “Just pray that it isn’t and everything will be fine.” That was the answer Denah always got, and every time she heard it her heart skipped a beat. What did everyone mean by that? Did they know something she didn’t? Only time would tell.
Denah and Danica's lunch dates continued, of course, and she made sure to keep her sister up to date with everything that went on with Dixon. Denah knew better than to fall for his affections a second time. To have your heart broken twice by the same man was stupidity on the woman’s part. “Just entertain him, let him be happy, and when you give him his son you’ll be free to do whatever you like!” “What if it’s a girl?” “Just pray that it isn’t and everything will be fine.” That was the answer Denah always got, and every time she heard it her heart skipped a beat. What did everyone mean by that? Did they know something she didn’t? Only time would tell.
Monday, January 25, 2010
A Royal Marriage
*Unfortunately the photos dry up after this, and don't kick in until the next generation. Stick with it though, the storyline gets good!*
The wedding of Crown Prince Dixon West to his second cousin Countess Denah West was a grand affair and a joyous occasion for the entire kingdom. Not only did it partially ensure the succession of the crown and stability for the people of LegacyVille, but it meant that, once a child was born, there would be no chance of someone from another kingdom attempting to claim the throne, as Dixon and Denah’s child would be a descendant of the king on both the mother and the father’s side.
Denah was pleasantly surprised at how loving and attentive Dixon was, and made it a point to thank Danica every time they met for lunch. If it wasn't for Danica, Denah never would have opened her heart to Dixon and allowed herself to be loved.
Denah’s happiness was short lived. When she failed to show signs of pregnancy after only 3 months of marriage, she began to notice Dixon returning to the snide and short tempered prince she had known before the wedding. She had her suspicions as to why, but she had to know for sure. She caught him on his way to work one morning and asked “My love… why are you so angry?” Dixon scoffed “As if you don’t already know the answer. You’ve been here three months and there are no signs of my son.” Denah’s heart shattered. She had been fooled into thinking he really loved her. All he really wanted was a son, and she was a nuisance he had to tolerate in the meantime. Her lip began to tremble. “Look, I’ve got to go to work, to do my job. Why don’t you do your job and give me my son, instead of running around having lunch dates with your friends.” Dixon turned and left without seeing the tears streaming down his wife’s face.
When Danica arrived for lunch, she could see Denah had been crying. It didn’t take much for her to tell Danica what had happened between her and Dixon that morning. Danica tried to comfort her, but she knew nothing could be done. Denah would have to endure, and produce a son if she was going to have any chance at happiness.
That night Denah waited patiently by the door for Dixon to come home. When he finally arrived, she opened her mouth to speak but he cut her off. “I don’t want to talk.” He threw his suitcase and jacket on the chair next to her and walked upstairs. She heard the door to his office close. Denah decided she would try again when he came to bed. She waited for him, but when he hadn’t arrived by 1am she decided to go to bed. It was the first time since they were married that she slept alone.
Several weeks went by with Dixon spending most nights away from Denah at night. She didn’t know where he slept, but there were any number of places within the Castle for him to lie at night. One thing that never changed was the family breakfast. All families in LegacyVille ate breakfast together, and the Royal Family was no exception. Denah had been helping herself to double servings lately, and her weight gain was unmistakable. Dixon noticed her round belly. “Denah, you’ve got too much food on your plate and you’re getting fat. You need to eat less.” Denah shot him her trademark fiery glance and was about to speak when the King cut her off. “Are you stupid?! Can’t you see the woman is pregnant!?” Dixon looked at Denah in amazement “Sweetheart?! Why didn’t you tell me?” “What do you think I’ve been trying to tell you for the last 5 weeks?” Dixon ran out of the dining room and through all the halls of the castle jumping with joy that Denah was pregnant. By this time everyone else knew, and he was alone in his celebrations, but he didn’t care. He would soon have a son.
The wedding of Crown Prince Dixon West to his second cousin Countess Denah West was a grand affair and a joyous occasion for the entire kingdom. Not only did it partially ensure the succession of the crown and stability for the people of LegacyVille, but it meant that, once a child was born, there would be no chance of someone from another kingdom attempting to claim the throne, as Dixon and Denah’s child would be a descendant of the king on both the mother and the father’s side.Denah was pleasantly surprised at how loving and attentive Dixon was, and made it a point to thank Danica every time they met for lunch. If it wasn't for Danica, Denah never would have opened her heart to Dixon and allowed herself to be loved.
Denah’s happiness was short lived. When she failed to show signs of pregnancy after only 3 months of marriage, she began to notice Dixon returning to the snide and short tempered prince she had known before the wedding. She had her suspicions as to why, but she had to know for sure. She caught him on his way to work one morning and asked “My love… why are you so angry?” Dixon scoffed “As if you don’t already know the answer. You’ve been here three months and there are no signs of my son.” Denah’s heart shattered. She had been fooled into thinking he really loved her. All he really wanted was a son, and she was a nuisance he had to tolerate in the meantime. Her lip began to tremble. “Look, I’ve got to go to work, to do my job. Why don’t you do your job and give me my son, instead of running around having lunch dates with your friends.” Dixon turned and left without seeing the tears streaming down his wife’s face.
When Danica arrived for lunch, she could see Denah had been crying. It didn’t take much for her to tell Danica what had happened between her and Dixon that morning. Danica tried to comfort her, but she knew nothing could be done. Denah would have to endure, and produce a son if she was going to have any chance at happiness.
That night Denah waited patiently by the door for Dixon to come home. When he finally arrived, she opened her mouth to speak but he cut her off. “I don’t want to talk.” He threw his suitcase and jacket on the chair next to her and walked upstairs. She heard the door to his office close. Denah decided she would try again when he came to bed. She waited for him, but when he hadn’t arrived by 1am she decided to go to bed. It was the first time since they were married that she slept alone.
Several weeks went by with Dixon spending most nights away from Denah at night. She didn’t know where he slept, but there were any number of places within the Castle for him to lie at night. One thing that never changed was the family breakfast. All families in LegacyVille ate breakfast together, and the Royal Family was no exception. Denah had been helping herself to double servings lately, and her weight gain was unmistakable. Dixon noticed her round belly. “Denah, you’ve got too much food on your plate and you’re getting fat. You need to eat less.” Denah shot him her trademark fiery glance and was about to speak when the King cut her off. “Are you stupid?! Can’t you see the woman is pregnant!?” Dixon looked at Denah in amazement “Sweetheart?! Why didn’t you tell me?” “What do you think I’ve been trying to tell you for the last 5 weeks?” Dixon ran out of the dining room and through all the halls of the castle jumping with joy that Denah was pregnant. By this time everyone else knew, and he was alone in his celebrations, but he didn’t care. He would soon have a son.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
A Summer Wedding
Over the next 5 months, Denah and Danica became inseparable. They spent so much time together Denver started to complain. He decided to confront his sister at breakfast. “Any chance of me getting my wife back?” “You can have her back when I become a wife myself.” “Dear God, that day won’t come soon enough” 
Denah grabbed a sausage off the table and threw it at her brother, then turned to rub Danica’s growing belly “Don’t worry Brother, this little one is due at the end of spring, and I have decided to marry in summer.” Everyone’s jaw dropped. Denah looked around the table, “Mother, close you’re mouth. It’s not lady like.” Tara spit out the food she was chewing. “Well when were you planning on telling ME this? Summer is only 4 months away!” “Mother, don’t shout, it’s not lady like. Besides, I’ve just told you. Four months is plenty of time to plan a wedding.” Denah pulled out a chair for Danica, and took a seat across the table. Tara stared at Denah in disbelief and threw her fork down on the table. 
She looked at Charles “Are you going to let her speak to me like that?!” “Think of it this way,” Charles replied “she’ll be gone in four months.” Tara got up from the table in a huff and spent the rest of the day making wedding plans over the phone with the Queen.
The next 4 months passed in a whirlwind of excitement and commotion. Tara hardly slept as she planned for the birth of a child, and a wedding. At the end of spring, when Danica gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, Tara threw a small party to celebrate. When Dixon arrived, Denah wasn’t sure what to expect. They hadn’t seen each other since she announced she was ready to marry, and she wasn’t sure what kind of comment to expect. She was surprised when he arrived with a bouquet of flowers and a friendly smile. He kissed her on the cheek “I’m so happy you have decided to become my wife and queen.” Denah was shocked. Dixon was pleased when she didn’t immediately snap back. “Hopefully with the grace of God we will be throwing our own welcoming party this time next year.” Denah smiled back at him. She couldn’t believe the words coming out of his mouth. What was once snake venom was now sweet honey. She felt her heart melt, and was overcome with relief. Maybe Danica was right, she thought to herself, maybe he will be easy to love.
Denah grabbed a sausage off the table and threw it at her brother, then turned to rub Danica’s growing belly “Don’t worry Brother, this little one is due at the end of spring, and I have decided to marry in summer.” Everyone’s jaw dropped. Denah looked around the table, “Mother, close you’re mouth. It’s not lady like.” Tara spit out the food she was chewing. “Well when were you planning on telling ME this? Summer is only 4 months away!” “Mother, don’t shout, it’s not lady like. Besides, I’ve just told you. Four months is plenty of time to plan a wedding.” Denah pulled out a chair for Danica, and took a seat across the table. Tara stared at Denah in disbelief and threw her fork down on the table. 
She looked at Charles “Are you going to let her speak to me like that?!” “Think of it this way,” Charles replied “she’ll be gone in four months.” Tara got up from the table in a huff and spent the rest of the day making wedding plans over the phone with the Queen. The next 4 months passed in a whirlwind of excitement and commotion. Tara hardly slept as she planned for the birth of a child, and a wedding. At the end of spring, when Danica gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, Tara threw a small party to celebrate. When Dixon arrived, Denah wasn’t sure what to expect. They hadn’t seen each other since she announced she was ready to marry, and she wasn’t sure what kind of comment to expect. She was surprised when he arrived with a bouquet of flowers and a friendly smile. He kissed her on the cheek “I’m so happy you have decided to become my wife and queen.” Denah was shocked. Dixon was pleased when she didn’t immediately snap back. “Hopefully with the grace of God we will be throwing our own welcoming party this time next year.” Denah smiled back at him. She couldn’t believe the words coming out of his mouth. What was once snake venom was now sweet honey. She felt her heart melt, and was overcome with relief. Maybe Danica was right, she thought to herself, maybe he will be easy to love.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
First West Estate
One year after the engagement party, Denver and Danica were married. As it was a noble marriage, the Royal family was free to attend. When Dixon arrived for the ceremony he was once again met with Denah’s cold demeanor. She still felt slighted by his comments a year before at the engagement party, and she wanted everyone in view to know that she had no intentions of bending to the Prince’s will and marrying before she felt herself ready.Dixon walked over to Denah and lightly kissed her hand.
“Do you see the joy in everyone’s faces my love?” he said “We could have this tomorrow. Why do you want to wait for such happiness?” Denah held her chin high “I do swear, every time you open your mouth, it is in attempt to coerce a minor into marriage.” Both sets of parents were keeping a close eye from afar, they didn’t want another outburst. All four shot warning glances to Dixon and Denah. They smiled back and made their rounds.“My apologies, your Majesty,” Charles started “All we can do is hope she has a change of heart once she sees how wonderful marriage and children can be”.
The good mood in the house remained long after Danica was settled. Denah could see how much her brother loved his new wife. She didn’t think it was possible to love someone your parents had chosen for you. Her own parents were a prime example.
Months after the wedding, when the novelty of marriage should have worn off, Denah would still catch Denver and Danica flirting with each other like… well like teenagers. Denah and Danica were re;axing next to the pool, when Denah plainly asked “How do you do it?” How can you just fall in love with someone?” “Well it wasn’t hard” Danica replied “Your brother is such a sweet and kind person. From the day we met at the engagement party he made it his mission to make sure I know he loves me. How can I not love him back?” Denah slumped down into her deck chair “That doesn’t help me… Every time I see Dixon he berates me for my decision to wait. That’s not love. I don’t know what that is.” Danica sat down next to her and rubbed her shoulders. “Don’t think anything of it. He is the only son of the King, he’s just not used to waiting…for anything. I’m not worried for you though. I’m sure he’ll soften once you set a date. And I’m sure you’ll see that he is quite easy to love.” Denah let out a deep sigh “I hope so…”
Over Danica’s first year living at First West Estate, she became very close with Denah. Having grown up with 4 brothers, Denah was quite happy to finally have a sister to confide in. They spent most of their time together, and talked about everything, including married life. “Do you think I’m wrong to ask Dixon to wait?” Denah asked one lazy afternoon “Not at all. It’s your right to wait until you’re 18.” “Why didn’t you wait?” “I wasn’t doing anything else. It was either get married, or sit at home for two more years, and then get married.” “I know what you mean… it
can get pretty boring a round here. Do you think I’ll make a good wife?” “Denah of course you’ll make an amazing wife… Do you think I’ll make a good mother?” Denah sat up in an instant, a look of excited amazement on her face “Are you…?!” “Yes! I’m so excited! But you’re the only person who knows. I want to tell the family at dinner tonight.” “Sure thing sis!” Denah pretended to zip her lips and throw away the key. They spent the rest of the afternoon watching the clouds and picking out names.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Outside Denah's Room
Denah’s face was red hot, and she fought hard to keep the tears from falling down her face and staining her gown. She was breathing hard, and one of her handmaidens was fanning her face when there was a knock at the door. “Denah? I’m so sorry… I didn’t mean to insult you, I swear.” “In what world would the comparison of a Countess and a peasant girl not be intended to insult?!” she shouted back. “I was never good with words, please, allow me to explain myself.” There was no answer, and he took that as permission. 
“It’s just that I’ve waited so long for a Queen and a son, I want nothing more than to have you as a wife, and to love you like my father loves my mother.”
Denah stomped to the door and whipped it open, catching Dixon off guard. He gave her his most charming smile, to which she responded with a sideways glance. “And if I never give you the son you so desperately desire?” Dixon looked at her with his mouth agape. “My love, don’t speak of such terrible things. With the history of our entire family, that is highly unlikely. Even if that were to happen, I wouldn’t love you any less.” Denah looked deep into his eyes in search of the truth. Both of their fathers were testaments to the hopeless romantic nature of the men in their family, why should he be any different? Her face softened, and he knew he was slowly but surely chipping away at her frosty exterior. “Please come back downstairs, we are the guests of honour.” Dixon held out his hand and mustered up the softest face he could. Denah rolled her eyes, put her hand in his, and allowed him to be lead her back to the party.
“It’s just that I’ve waited so long for a Queen and a son, I want nothing more than to have you as a wife, and to love you like my father loves my mother.”Denah stomped to the door and whipped it open, catching Dixon off guard. He gave her his most charming smile, to which she responded with a sideways glance. “And if I never give you the son you so desperately desire?” Dixon looked at her with his mouth agape. “My love, don’t speak of such terrible things. With the history of our entire family, that is highly unlikely. Even if that were to happen, I wouldn’t love you any less.” Denah looked deep into his eyes in search of the truth. Both of their fathers were testaments to the hopeless romantic nature of the men in their family, why should he be any different? Her face softened, and he knew he was slowly but surely chipping away at her frosty exterior. “Please come back downstairs, we are the guests of honour.” Dixon held out his hand and mustered up the softest face he could. Denah rolled her eyes, put her hand in his, and allowed him to be lead her back to the party.
Friday, January 8, 2010
First West Estate - In the Grand Hall
The guests of the party had arrived, and the betrothed couples prepared to enter the hall for their introduction. Denver held up his hand, and Danica placed hers on top of his. He was shocked at the warmth of her skin. He had never been touched with such tenderness by a woman he wasn’t related to. He felt his ears turn red. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Danica looking at him. “Is everything alright?” she asked. “Yes, yes” he stuttered “everything is fine.” When he woke up that morning, he would have gladly gone to a monastery in a far off country to avoid his fate. Now, he could not believe there was another woman more beautiful than the one standing next to him. The scene behind them was considerably less tender.
Dixon and Denah stood in the same position, her hand atop his, but each was clearly not interested in the other. Since the day Denah was born she was groomed to be the future Queen, and since the day Denah was born Dixon had been groomed to have eyes for no other. He was never allowed to be alone with a lady he wasn’t related to, and in his house, she was always referred to as his future Queen.
Unfortunately the lengthy wait did nothing to stir his desire for her. Both had seen portraits of each other, and were well acquainted with the faces of their future spouses, but on this day, the first day they had actually met, they felt more like an old married couple than the newly betrothed. There was to be no love in this marriage. They both knew that. The primary purpose of this marriage was to provide the kingdom with an heir that could be traced back to the first king by both mother and father. If they happened to fall in love with each other, well that would be a bonus.
Denah wasn’t looking forward to the loveless marriage. She had seen it tear her father apart. She couldn’t count the nights she heard her father cry himself to sleep, alone in his bed, while his wife shared the bed of his father. Denah looked into Dixon’s eyes trying to see if there was love there, but she could see he was lost in his own world. Dixon looked back into Denah’s eyes trying to see if there was anything behind her hard exterior, but he saw nothing. He could see she was hiding her true self behind a wall. This wait, which had already lasted so many years, was taking a toll on him. He wanted a son. If he were to die without leaving his kingdom a prince…
He wanted to marry a girl from another kingdom years ago, but his parents insisted he wait for Denah. She was 15, he was 29, nearly twice her age. Dixon was pulled out of his thought when the doors to the grand ballroom opened and Denver and Danica walked into the hall full of cheers and smiling faces. He took a deep breath. “Well,” he said “that’s are cue!” He looked at Denah with a smile, but she only looked ahead with a face that could have been etched in stone. Denah was well aware of the ‘tantrums’ Dixon had been throwing lately.
They entered the hall to a bevy of cheers, streamers and confetti. This was the first time the future King and Queen had been seen together in the same room. They walked a wide circle around the room, and joined Denver and Danica in the centre for a traditional dance. Dixon tried desperately to elicit some response from Denah, but to no avail. As a last resort, he broached a subject which he knew was a sore spot. “Do you see how happy everyone is?” Denah remained silent. “There will be much merriment around the kingdom when we marry…” Denah looked away, a tear in her eye. “And a son for the kingdom… wouldn’t you he happy with a son?” Denah shot Dixon a fiery look. She knew exactly what he was after, but she wouldn’t give him the satisfaction. She knew her rights as a woman in this kingdom, set in place by their own great grandfather. She would wait until she was 18, and there was nothing anyone in the kingdom could do. “Would you like to be known throughout history as the king who took a child bride?”
Dixon was shocked at the degree of her candor, it showed on his face and Denah knew she had hit her mark. “Well all I’m trying to say is that there are many a peasant girl your age who are married and withchild.” Dixon was making a valid point, but Denah would have nothing of it. “And I am NOT a PEASANT GIRL” she shouted.
The music stopped and all eyes were on Denah. She threw his hands down and stormed out of the great hall, followed shortly thereafter by her ladies. Dixon could feel 4 sets of angry eyes the back of his head, as both sets of parents knew exactly what he had said. Dixon, feeling very embarrassed, straightened his suit jacket and cleared his throat “Continue.” he signaled to the band, and left to follow Denah. He needed to patch things up if he would have any chance at a happy marriage.
Dixon and Denah stood in the same position, her hand atop his, but each was clearly not interested in the other. Since the day Denah was born she was groomed to be the future Queen, and since the day Denah was born Dixon had been groomed to have eyes for no other. He was never allowed to be alone with a lady he wasn’t related to, and in his house, she was always referred to as his future Queen.
Unfortunately the lengthy wait did nothing to stir his desire for her. Both had seen portraits of each other, and were well acquainted with the faces of their future spouses, but on this day, the first day they had actually met, they felt more like an old married couple than the newly betrothed. There was to be no love in this marriage. They both knew that. The primary purpose of this marriage was to provide the kingdom with an heir that could be traced back to the first king by both mother and father. If they happened to fall in love with each other, well that would be a bonus.
Denah wasn’t looking forward to the loveless marriage. She had seen it tear her father apart. She couldn’t count the nights she heard her father cry himself to sleep, alone in his bed, while his wife shared the bed of his father. Denah looked into Dixon’s eyes trying to see if there was love there, but she could see he was lost in his own world. Dixon looked back into Denah’s eyes trying to see if there was anything behind her hard exterior, but he saw nothing. He could see she was hiding her true self behind a wall. This wait, which had already lasted so many years, was taking a toll on him. He wanted a son. If he were to die without leaving his kingdom a prince…
He wanted to marry a girl from another kingdom years ago, but his parents insisted he wait for Denah. She was 15, he was 29, nearly twice her age. Dixon was pulled out of his thought when the doors to the grand ballroom opened and Denver and Danica walked into the hall full of cheers and smiling faces. He took a deep breath. “Well,” he said “that’s are cue!” He looked at Denah with a smile, but she only looked ahead with a face that could have been etched in stone. Denah was well aware of the ‘tantrums’ Dixon had been throwing lately.
They entered the hall to a bevy of cheers, streamers and confetti. This was the first time the future King and Queen had been seen together in the same room. They walked a wide circle around the room, and joined Denver and Danica in the centre for a traditional dance. Dixon tried desperately to elicit some response from Denah, but to no avail. As a last resort, he broached a subject which he knew was a sore spot. “Do you see how happy everyone is?” Denah remained silent. “There will be much merriment around the kingdom when we marry…” Denah looked away, a tear in her eye. “And a son for the kingdom… wouldn’t you he happy with a son?” Denah shot Dixon a fiery look. She knew exactly what he was after, but she wouldn’t give him the satisfaction. She knew her rights as a woman in this kingdom, set in place by their own great grandfather. She would wait until she was 18, and there was nothing anyone in the kingdom could do. “Would you like to be known throughout history as the king who took a child bride?”
Dixon was shocked at the degree of her candor, it showed on his face and Denah knew she had hit her mark. “Well all I’m trying to say is that there are many a peasant girl your age who are married and withchild.” Dixon was making a valid point, but Denah would have nothing of it. “And I am NOT a PEASANT GIRL” she shouted.
The music stopped and all eyes were on Denah. She threw his hands down and stormed out of the great hall, followed shortly thereafter by her ladies. Dixon could feel 4 sets of angry eyes the back of his head, as both sets of parents knew exactly what he had said. Dixon, feeling very embarrassed, straightened his suit jacket and cleared his throat “Continue.” he signaled to the band, and left to follow Denah. He needed to patch things up if he would have any chance at a happy marriage.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Henderson Manor (4 Legacy Ave)
The handmaiden was putting the final touches on Countess Danica’s finest gown as Princess Clara walked in. “Oh my darling, you’re beautiful” She said, tears filling her eyes. “Thank you mother, but I don’t understand why I had to try it on again, it fits the same is it did last night.” “I know dear, it’s just that I want to have as many memories as possible before I must give you away.” 
Danica rolled her eyes and jumped down from the stool. “Mother, first of all, I won’t be married for another years to come, and second, you can see First West Estate from your bedroom window, I won’t be far.” “I know love, I know… my little girl… soon to be a woman.” “Mother please,” Danica said as she waived the handmaiden back into the room “I’m sure when Darryl and Dashel’s wives arrive you’ll have plenty of babies to keep you busy.” “Oh!” Clara said in a huff “Those girls are hardly off their mother’s teats, it will be so long before I get grandchildren from them. You on the other hand..it won’t be long my love.” Clara gave Danica a warm hug and left her to change out of the gown.
Danica rolled her eyes and jumped down from the stool. “Mother, first of all, I won’t be married for another years to come, and second, you can see First West Estate from your bedroom window, I won’t be far.” “I know love, I know… my little girl… soon to be a woman.” “Mother please,” Danica said as she waived the handmaiden back into the room “I’m sure when Darryl and Dashel’s wives arrive you’ll have plenty of babies to keep you busy.” “Oh!” Clara said in a huff “Those girls are hardly off their mother’s teats, it will be so long before I get grandchildren from them. You on the other hand..it won’t be long my love.” Clara gave Danica a warm hug and left her to change out of the gown.
First West Estate (3 Legacy Ave)
"Denah! Please hurry, the coach will be here soon” Lady Tara Spencer looked at her watch impatiently, this girl is always late, she thought to herself, hardly a trait fitting of the future Queen. She caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror and paused. She had no right to judge her daughter. She herself had major faults, and Denah made it a point to remind her of her transgressions on a daily basis.
Countess Denah thundered down the stairs and landed in front of Tara with a thud. “A lady really shouldn’t be stomping around the house like that” Tara said with a frown. “You of all people shouldn’t be telling me what a lady should and shouldn’t do.”
“Hold your tongue young lady! I am still your mother” “Yes, a fact you remind me of every day, although your actions in the last few years would suggest you weren’t actually married to my father” “You-!” Tara raised her hand, and Denah braced herself.
The blow she was expecting never came, and when she opened her eyes her father, Count Charles West, was standing nearby. “Denah, I wish you would forget about what happened and love your mother like you did when you were a child.” “I struggle every day father, you know this.” “Well try harder to put it behind you! We wouldn’t want the future King to catch wind of the situation and assume you will follow in your mother’s footsteps would we?” “No father, we wouldn’t” “Very well then. Enjoy your trip to the dressmaker ladies.” “We shall” they said in unison.
After the ladies left, Charles set out to find his fourth son, Count Denver. He found him in his room at the back of the house. He entered the darkened room cautiously, and found his son still in bed.
“Denver, what are you doing still in bed? It’s nearly noon. We must oversee the preparations for tonight’s party.” “I don’t want to oversee preparations for this party. I feel like I am being put on display like a prize pig.” “Son, of course we are putting you on display! But not like a prize pig, like a Prized Son! Besides, this party is not only for you, it is for you, your sister and your future spouses! Come come, you must get out of bed.” Charles whipped the covers off his son and threw open the curtains. “But father! I don’t want to! This is not even my place! I am the fourth son, I should have gone off to a monestary or something!” “That’s right, you should have, but your brothers made the decision for you. Like it or not you are heir to my title, and the Hendersons have one remaining daughter. You WILL inherit this house and my fortune, and you WILL marry that girl! Now get dressed, I’ve already had to prevent your mother and sister from killing each other, I’ll not deal with any more squabbles today!"
Countess Denah thundered down the stairs and landed in front of Tara with a thud. “A lady really shouldn’t be stomping around the house like that” Tara said with a frown. “You of all people shouldn’t be telling me what a lady should and shouldn’t do.”
“Hold your tongue young lady! I am still your mother” “Yes, a fact you remind me of every day, although your actions in the last few years would suggest you weren’t actually married to my father” “You-!” Tara raised her hand, and Denah braced herself.
The blow she was expecting never came, and when she opened her eyes her father, Count Charles West, was standing nearby. “Denah, I wish you would forget about what happened and love your mother like you did when you were a child.” “I struggle every day father, you know this.” “Well try harder to put it behind you! We wouldn’t want the future King to catch wind of the situation and assume you will follow in your mother’s footsteps would we?” “No father, we wouldn’t” “Very well then. Enjoy your trip to the dressmaker ladies.” “We shall” they said in unison.
After the ladies left, Charles set out to find his fourth son, Count Denver. He found him in his room at the back of the house. He entered the darkened room cautiously, and found his son still in bed.“Denver, what are you doing still in bed? It’s nearly noon. We must oversee the preparations for tonight’s party.” “I don’t want to oversee preparations for this party. I feel like I am being put on display like a prize pig.” “Son, of course we are putting you on display! But not like a prize pig, like a Prized Son! Besides, this party is not only for you, it is for you, your sister and your future spouses! Come come, you must get out of bed.” Charles whipped the covers off his son and threw open the curtains. “But father! I don’t want to! This is not even my place! I am the fourth son, I should have gone off to a monestary or something!” “That’s right, you should have, but your brothers made the decision for you. Like it or not you are heir to my title, and the Hendersons have one remaining daughter. You WILL inherit this house and my fortune, and you WILL marry that girl! Now get dressed, I’ve already had to prevent your mother and sister from killing each other, I’ll not deal with any more squabbles today!"
LegacyVille Castle (1 Legacy Ave)
We join this story already in progress. Tensions run high as several Generation D children prepare for their betrothal party at First West Estate. Crown Prince Dixon West is growing impatient, as he must wait for his betrothed to become of age. His soon to be betrothed, Countess Dennah West ( his 2nd cousin) is having issues of her own. While she doesn’t object to the arranged marriage, she is having more and more trouble with her mother. Her Brother, who is also to be betrothed, is reluctant to inherit his father’s fortune, as he is the 4th son, and not technically the heir
Son, you really should eat your meal, the cooks worked for hours to get this roast just right” King Caleb West looked at his scowling son. Crown Prince Dixon threw his fork down and crossed his arms in a huff. “I just don’t understand father! Why must I wait? All I want to do is serve my kingdom and provide our people with an heir and security! All my cousins that are of age are married with children of their own. Do you WANT the throne to be usurped?!” “Dixon! Do NOT speak to your father in that tone.” Chided The Queen.
“Thank you Jenny, I fear your son is too emotional. It’s a shame we weren’t able to have more after him. We would have at least known our kingdom might not be thrown away in a hissy fit.” “Enough!” Shouted Dixon “I will not be spoken of in such a manner!” “I have not died yet son! You will speak to me with respect while I am King, or find yourself in the dungeon for treason, do you understand?” Dixon closed his mouth and picked up his fork. “Jenny, my love, what IS the problem with the girl I have chosen?” “No Problem sweetheart, only that she is barely 15, and she wishes to wait until she is 18, as is her right. I can hardly blame her, so many girls die in childbirth you know.”
“Seems fair enough. Dixon, would you have a wife now and be a widow next year?” “No” Grumbled Dixon. “Then I gather you will wait until the girl is ready and have a loving and lasting relationship like that of your mother and I” “Yes sir” “Well then it is settled. No more of your outbursts. You are far too old for that.”
Son, you really should eat your meal, the cooks worked for hours to get this roast just right” King Caleb West looked at his scowling son. Crown Prince Dixon threw his fork down and crossed his arms in a huff. “I just don’t understand father! Why must I wait? All I want to do is serve my kingdom and provide our people with an heir and security! All my cousins that are of age are married with children of their own. Do you WANT the throne to be usurped?!” “Dixon! Do NOT speak to your father in that tone.” Chided The Queen.“Thank you Jenny, I fear your son is too emotional. It’s a shame we weren’t able to have more after him. We would have at least known our kingdom might not be thrown away in a hissy fit.” “Enough!” Shouted Dixon “I will not be spoken of in such a manner!” “I have not died yet son! You will speak to me with respect while I am King, or find yourself in the dungeon for treason, do you understand?” Dixon closed his mouth and picked up his fork. “Jenny, my love, what IS the problem with the girl I have chosen?” “No Problem sweetheart, only that she is barely 15, and she wishes to wait until she is 18, as is her right. I can hardly blame her, so many girls die in childbirth you know.”
“Seems fair enough. Dixon, would you have a wife now and be a widow next year?” “No” Grumbled Dixon. “Then I gather you will wait until the girl is ready and have a loving and lasting relationship like that of your mother and I” “Yes sir” “Well then it is settled. No more of your outbursts. You are far too old for that.”
Welcome to my Legacy Royal Kingdom Challenge!
First I would like to thank you for comming to this blog. This RCK/Legacy is a long time in the making and is very well established. I'm going to try my best to provide background information wherever necessary and possible.
This blog will be the story version of my Legacy style Royal Kingdom Challenge. (Links to follow, or just Google Legacy Challenge and Royal Kingdom Challenge). I'm using an amended ruleset that I've created that's added some interesting elements to the game.
I started writing content when I got to generation D, so the story will start there. I hope you enjoy this blog, please feel free to comment!
This blog will be the story version of my Legacy style Royal Kingdom Challenge. (Links to follow, or just Google Legacy Challenge and Royal Kingdom Challenge). I'm using an amended ruleset that I've created that's added some interesting elements to the game.
I started writing content when I got to generation D, so the story will start there. I hope you enjoy this blog, please feel free to comment!
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