Ceinlys Erenford

“Your enemies have neither the proof nor the backbone to stand against you, but say something often enough in vulnerable ears and incredulity turns to belief.”

Megan Fox as Ceinlys Erenford, nee Haigh

Personal name: Ceinlys Erenford, nee Haigh house: Haigh father: Leslyn Haigh mother: Perriane Haigh nee Frey spouse: Diarmud Erenford (.d) issue: Hafwen Erenford Appearance gender: female age: 21 height: 5'6 weight: 120 eyes: Blue hair: Black Political honorific: Lady title: Steward of Broadmoor position: Eldest daughter of House Haigh predecessor: none heir: Hafwen Erenford

Latest RP Logs Page 556: Milk and Ice (aeron ceinlys eryk logs martyn social) Page 554: After the Night Before (aeron ceinlys daryl faline freya logs mortimer nathaniel social) Page 554: A Moment of Sweetness (bastien ceinlys logs social) Page 553: Finishing Touches (aeron ceinlys daryl erik laryssa logs social) Page 553: A Wedding at Broadmoor, Part II (aemy alric arabella bastien brennart ceinlys daryl erik event firth garion ilaria jaimera kamron katrin laryssa logs lyanna maldred martyn mortimer muirenn nedra perrin robben saffron visenya) Page 553: A Wedding at Broadmoor, Part I (aemy aeron alric arabella bastien brennart ceinlys daryl erik event firth garion ilaria jaimera kamron katrin laryssa logs lyanna maldred martyn mortimer muirenn nedra perrin robben saffron visenya) Page 552: Garden Gathering (aemy aeron alric ceinlys daryl erik ilaria laryssa logs lothar maldred nedra robben sabriel social) Page 551: A courier, by any other name (bastien ceinlys logs social) Memoirs A Lady's Security Ambition Recalled Aspirations Candlelit Epiphany Remember Me All the Things Forgotten

As the Steward of Highfield, Ceinlys managed all matters of state and inter-house politics on Lord Aleister's behalf, and was empowered to speak with his authority in the event of his absence (or disinterest). If you wanted something done without approaching the man himself.. the young lady was perhaps the safest route. Having returned to her family's seat of Broadmoor, she now serves once more as Steward in the absence of her eldest brother and heir to the House, Harys. The Keep is far larger and long established, with many duties in trade and produce that will certainly keep her busy. Maybe that was her father's intent? New Theme: Florence & the Machine - Howl Be careful of the curse that falls on young lovers/Starts so soft and sweet and turns them to hunters Rumours & RP Hooks The circumstances of Ceinlys' late husband, DIARMUD ERENFORD's death have often been queried, particularly by House Erenford, of course. House Haigh is in constant competition with Houses Ashwood, Erenford and Nayland for the favor of Lord Walder Frey. A betrothal between she and Young Lord Bastien, however, may have considerable effect upon who emerges the victor… Ceinlys is skilled in the preparation of various salves and remedies, some with interesting effects. She has served as Steward of Broadmoor, a long established stronghold, producer of grain and her family's seat between the Twins and the Kingsroad.

Cover Overview Overview Ceinlys (cane-liss) : beauty and wealth IN THE BEGINNING The sole daughter of Lord Ser Leslyn of Broadmoor Keep and his wife, the eldest child of Lord Walder Frey, Ceinlys' perhaps always bore the weight of high expectations. But from none moreso than herself. The marriage arranged between she and Ser Diarmud Erenford was entirely political, largely influenced by her mother's wish to keep her dearest child safe and close. But the union met, five years ago, with an untimely demise as the fledgling knight was slain en route to battle with the other vassals of House Frey. Widowed - and, as it turns out, with child - the fifteen year old returned to her home and family where she has remained ever since. Throwing herself with surprising determination into the intricacies of running a household, it would appear the young lady, now twenty, is preparing herself for another husband, when the time comes. Judging by the airs and graces she has inherited from her mother, of course, she is perhaps aiming well above her station. Not exactly disliked by those who know her, Ceinlys was nevertheless considered… a little aloof, perhaps. Distant. Dreamy. Though she had a natural flair for performance, particularly singing, it could be nigh impossible, at times, to hold the young woman's attention. Undeniable, though, was the steady hand she took in dealing with her older brother, Ser Aron. When others would shrink in the face of his ferocious temper or barbed tongue, the young Lady Ceinlys stood firm and resolute, often solely responsible for averting his fury, needs be. The pair arrived in Stonebridge, rallying to the call of their liege in defense of the town under the weight of Ironborn assault and reuniting with the brother of age between them, Harlyn. Why exactly Ceinlys saw fit to ride with the muster of knights and squires, aback her sibling's destrier, is a matter of some speculation… as are the evidently tenuous and terse exchanges between Haighs and Erenfords. HOUSE CHARLTON Ceinlys approached and was granted a place within House Charlton. A lady appointed to serve or attend a high ranking noblewoman, a Lady in Waiting is not quite a servant; rather they are considered 'noble companions' who, by their status and nobility, can better advise a woman of high station. The duties of ladies-in-waiting vary from court to court, but functions discharged include: proficiency in the etiquette, languages, and dances prevalent at court; secretarial tasks; reading to and writing correspondence on behalf of her mistress; embroidery, painting, horseback riding, music making (vocal and/or instrumental) and participation in other noble pastimes; wardrobe care; supervision of servants; keeping her mistress abreast of activities and personages at court, and discreetly relaying messages upon command. Of course, with new appointments and obligations came whisperings and gossip. It was - and still is - widely rumored that Ceinlys, rather than being a companion for his lady wife, had in fact been taken by Aleister himself as a mistress (+bbread 5/61, +bbread 5/64 and +bbread 5/105 in game). It was around this time, in the wake of a discovered plot of Cherise' to bring harm to the new retainer, that Aleister appointed his own brother, Ser Bastien, as Ceinlys' personal guard. Prior to the venture against the Iron Islands Aleister and the young lady departed for the Charlton seat of Hollyholt, along with a moderate contingent of the household, and Ceinlys was appointed as Aleister's Castellan, to oversee his household in his absence. A decision that was unlikely to help with the rumors. IRONBORN INVASION During the Ironborn Invasion, Ceinlys established a quiet name for herself, travelling with the Frey camp and taking care of certain matters that ought to fall to a woman of noble birth and authority; overseeing the organisation of the injured or near-dead, practicing her marksmanship if for no other reason than to amuse her brother's comrades and forging tenuous friendships with their neighbouring Houses (see Page 172: Archery is for Girls). The young lady gained a reputation for an almost ruthlessly pragmatic view of the world and simple, forthright opinions on the decisions made by certain commanders, though she has been known to reveal glimpses of a more typically feminine side, too - offering the use of her Maester and her supply of remedies to the healers within the gathering and bringing an injured knight back to Stonebridge within her caravan. When Aleister himself suffered a near fatal injury, she joined the Lady Cherise in hastening to his side, from where they had been temporarily sheltering at Terrick's Roost. But it was safe to say that the Lord emerged.. not wholly unscathed or unchanged. For Cherise, this was perhaps the beginning of the fall. For Ceinlys? An opportunity presenting itself. (see Page 198: Pouring Poison). HIGHFIELD Remaining as the Lord's Castellan, Ceinlys was delighted when the support and funds were granted for their long-awaited plans - to seize the former land of Tall Oaks and make worthwhile use of it. Months of careful planning, scattered awry by the Ironborn and Aleister's injury - not to mention the Lady Cherise' pregnancy and all the concern surrounding it - finally come to fruition. (see Memoirs: Ambition Recalled). Following an extended absence after her summons to return to her family's seat of Broadmoor, during which time she campaigned quietly behind the scenes for the events that would eventually see Aleister released from his imprisonment by the Naylands, Ceinlys has at last returned to Highfield; now under the new title of Steward. She is appointed to represent the Lord in his lands and is given power to govern in his name. This position differs from the Castellan in so much as the Steward can rule the entirety of a Lords Lands and invoke their name and authority, whereas the Castellan manages the staff and supplies of the Keep. And again, rumours abound. With the death of the young heir and the subsequent descent of Aleister's wife into madness, he and the Lady Ceinlys do seem to be spending a considerable amount of time in one another's company. If the gossip among the smallfolk of the Keep is to be believed, it may not be long before their Lord takes a new bride. THE ASHWOODS In October of 289 A.L, House Charlton officially announced their shift of allegiance to House Tully. Choosing to remain loyals vassals of the Freys, the ruling family of Highfield were forced to take a different name, to distance themselves from their traitorous kin. 'Ashwood' was chosen in respectful homage to the fallen house that once occupied the same lands and their familial crest was adapted to more suiting colors. That same month, no longer held back by the elders of his former house, Aleister was granted an annulment of his marriage to the Lady Cherise and such was announced publically by his Steward. It was widely expected that Ceinlys would hold his favor and succeed the Westerling as Lady Ashwood.. but there's no progress of note thus far. As is proper, the Lord must wait a minimum of four months before considering a new union. The question is, will the young lady's patience hold that long? Or will her ambition finally, perhaps inevitably, lead her elsewhere before he can ever lay claim to her hand? (see: Memoirs: Remember Me). FAMILY MATTERS Following a missive from Broadmoor in October 289, Ceinlys departed for Terrick's Roost, accompanied by Ser Bastien and Young Lord Anders Flint. There she brought news to her young cousin, the Lady Ilaria, of the proposal of a union between she and Young Lord Alric Fenster, under instruction to ensure that the girl agreed. The marriage would bring with it the vassalage of House Fenster, formerly sworn to House Charlton. Fortunately, she was successful and the date is set for sometime in January. Of her own volition, Ceinlys also sought out Ilaria's wayward sister, Lady Katrin, in order to warn her privately of just how dire the consequences of her recent involvement with both Martyn Mallister and Rafferdy Nayland may be. Given the rather constant presence of the sisters at Highfield, of late, it may be that their elder cousin has chosen to take them under her wing for now, while the daughters of their rival Houses continue on unchaperoned and defenceless around them. A MISSING DAUGHTER In late 289 A.L, several children went missing from the various houses of the Riverlands. Seeing as children are wont to wander off - and as they were at first all of common birth - nobody paid much heed. But when the first few were discovered dead, panic began to grow. Whispers of nameless myths sending ripples through all who heard them. But the real uproar began when Ceinlys' own daughter, Hafwen, was snatched, while in attendance at an Erenford wedding. Right under the noses of those who ought to have protected her, during her time at Heronhurst. And that's a score that will be settled, in due time. The search parties ranged far and wide, following the trail to the borders of the Ashwood and Terrick lands. Though both Houses offered aid and further numbers to lend, the restrictions laid upon by House Terrick desperately hamstringed the efforts of the increasingly frantic searchers. Fortunately, Ser Perrin is not the sort to simply accept that which he is told. Between the efforts of he and Lord Daryl Ashwood, the child's location was eventually ascertained. With Ceinlys waiting back at the Roost - characteristic leonine patience keeping her somewhat sane - the brave knights and squires ventured into the forest, waging a flurry of bloodshed and pain against the creatures who dared take a noble daughter from her mother. (see What Is Dead Can Never Die). With Hafwen at last returned, battered and bruised but alive, the Steward retreated promptly back to the family seat at Broadmoor, no doubt to regroup before unleashing her venom against those who, in her eyes, deliberately allowed this to happen… New Beginnings Having departed Highfield several months prior - none seem to know the true reason for her abrupt disimissal.. or resignation - Ceinlys was serving her own family as Steward of Broadmoor when word arrived of Lord Aleister's death, sent via messenger from the Lady Katrin with all haste. The young woman returned to Tanglewood for the first time in the wake of the tragedy, to oversee arrangements for the funeral, effigy and other such matters. Whether it was a genuine kindness or shrewd political maneuvering remains to be seen. Spending what little free time she had in the company of her cousin, the grieving new heir or the wayward Deputy, it seemed that the eldest daughter of House Haigh might miss, or even yearn for, her former life with the Ashwood family. Like it or not, she was the one who saw the manor built from the foundations, who forged the trade agreements and costs to bring merchants and smallfolk to the township.. and who saw off the last would-be 'Lady of Highfield'. But could she maintain her hold without her former lover and powerful supporter? The wedding of her cousin Ilaria to Young Lord Alric of House Fenster was a cause for celebration, not least because the union brought a new vassalage to the Haigh fold. Slowly and quietly, the House moves unfalteringly for a glorious future. But do they intend the same for the Lords and Ladies of Highfield? It's said that a hushed conversation between Ceinlys and Young Lord Bastien drew the eyes of many - and especially the Frey contingent in attendance. Have they at last recognised the fearsome ambition of Lord Leslyn and his daughter? Family Wanted House Haigh — Ser Ian Haigh - brother of Katrin and Ilaria — Ser Leland Haigh - brother of Sabriel — House Servants — Knights Personal Household — Spies — Septa/Septon Current Players (Active) House Haigh 'If you can look into the seeds of time, And say which grain will grow and which will not, Speak then to me, who neither beg nor fear, Your favors nor your hate.' Ser Eryk "An older cousin. One of the few who, like me, saw the benefit in allying ourselves with the Charltons. Consider the end, as our family motto goes. I should probably reach out to this one. I could use another trusted set of eyes." Lady Ilaria "The youngest of my female cousins, far less scandalous than her kin. In fact, she may be the only truly 'good' one of us. She has cared for my daughter in the past.. if only they could both remain innocent children forever. I will keep close watch over her, following her vows to Lord Alric." Lady Katrin "Another cousin, Ilaria's elder sister. She needs to be more mindful of how to conduct herself.. yet I'd be a hypocrite to condemn her fiery nature. We've grown closer, of late." Ser Perrin "The only one of my brothers who remains close by, Perrin had the misfortune of being born second to Harys. Then again, I'm not certain he'd have been happy under the weight of the burdens an heir is expected to shoulder." Lady Sabriel "I can't even contemplate the situation without laughing. Can the Naylands not see the insult in our offering them only the wildest and least genteel of all our daughters? Then again.. the Steward is wed to a witch. Maybe they enjoy wild-women from the swamps." Lady Laryssa "Hah! My cousin seems to have eyes for the young Deputy of Highfield. How curious. While she and I do share a few traits, she has yet to hone her mind.. I wonder how she will deal with his horde of admirers..?" NPCs and Inactive Lord Ser Leslyn Haigh Ceinlys' father, current Lord of Broadmoor and head of house. (NPC) Lady Perrianne Haigh Ser Leslyn's wife and Ceinlys' mother. Lord Walder Frey's eldest daughter. NPC Ser Harys Haigh Ceinlys' eldest brother, a young knight and heir to Broadmoor. NPC Lady Hafwen Erenford Ceinlys' only daughter, now six years of age. She resides with her grandparents at Broadmoor Keep. NPC Ser Donnel Haigh Ceinlys' recently knighted younger brother. NPC Brigid Thray Ceinlys' loyal handmaid and chaperone. NPC show Inactive Ser Aron Haigh My beloved elder brother. An infamous tourney knight, noted for his flamboyant - and occasionally vaguely sadistic - bouts. He's off in King's Landing, now.. and I miss him every day." Lady Briallyn Haigh "My once favourite cousin, who ended up marrying Garett. Yuck." Ser Harlyn "Perhaps the sweetest of my siblings, Harlyn has nevertheless developed his own unique methods for surviving the cutthroat world of politics in the Riverlands. I still have the tendency to baby him a little, though he is a man grown." Allies & Foes “Strong minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, weak minds discuss people.” ― Socrates House Ashwood "The enemy of our enemy is our friend." show members Lady Aeliana "Now I know who got the lion's share of the warmth and charisma in the family. Given time and practice, she may make a passable politician.. but more likely she'll be married off. Besides, there's more to it than just speaking in pretty metaphors." Ser Bastien "He has served me honestly and well in the past, as my guardian. But I still don't claim to know a damn thing about him. He's… oddly detached. But we grew closer, once he was no longer assigned to me, strangely enough. Following the death of his beloved elder brother, I've done what I can to help him don his new mantle.. and now it seems I shall be doing the same.." Lord Daryl "I've caught myself thinking, in unguarded moments, that if my life were simpler I would choose to keep Daryl in it, always. After my brother, he was the most zealous in his search for my daughter. But it's more than that. A kindred spirit, I suppose. The death of his sister has affected him, as one would expect. I don't know that my presence will improve things.. but he's a friend, in need of comfort. That's all, mind you. I've no intention of joining his ever-expanding harem." Ser Erik "Sheriff of Highfield. He seems very capable, despite his age.. but he ought to be careful not to let his gaze linger overlong on those beyond his reach. All that aside, I approve of his perspective in the matters he deals with. Especially Daryl." 'Brave' Ser Robben "Sweet. Polite. Genial. Hard to believe he's related to Aleister at all. Judging by the way he and his betrothed gaze adoringly at one another, his future is likely to be a joyful one." Ser Saethwyr "He reminds me more of Robben, in temperament, from what I've seen. But you never know." Lady Tiaryn "Such pleasant company. But no woman is as free of guile and cunning as the Lady might pretend. Seeing as she has married Aleister's cousin, that's something that ought be carefully watched. Or cultivated." Inactive/Deceased Lord Ser Aleister "I shan't lie and claim that serving as Aleister's Steward was easy. Consider the sort of decisions a man like that would rather hand along.. then recall who it was that he entrusted them to. Yes, I loved him once. Yet sometimes I think perhaps he kept me only because I would otherwise be a threat to all he held dear. Now I'll never know." Lady Miranda "I didn't know her, myself. But her passing seems to have grieved many of those I consider friend." Mistress Petra "Aleister's 'Pet'. If her loyalty to him is as genuine as it appears, then I can find no fault with the girl. She serves him dilligently." Mistress Ysa "The Castellan who replaced me. Only in title, though. Don't see her around the Keep much, for one who's meant to be running it. So long as the wine holds out, though, I couldn't care less." House Westerling "Of little consequence." show members Lady Cherise "Spoiled, petulant, spoiled, arrogant, spoiled and devious. In short, everything a noblewoman ought to be. Shame that she was a thundering loony." Ser Garett "…for all his delusions of grandeur? Still thinks with his cock. Though in a recent encounter, he barely seemed to recognise me. Does he pretend indifference to amuse himself or..?" House Erenford "Though technically still my kin, the Erenfords remain enemies of the Haighs, now more than ever as each family strives to outdo one another." show members Lady Aemy "Surprisingly amiable. She seems a sweet girl.. probably not as ambitious in the political realm as Emylie. I believe she will be happier, in the end, with Lord Robben. But I'm not sure Daryl will ever get over his little blonde angel. Chump." Lady Evelin "I don't know much of this one. I ought to remedy that." Young Lord Brennart "The third brother, to whom the duty of inheritance now falls. Poor thing. Still, he was one of those who continued to treat me civilly following Diarmud's death. I won't forget it." Ser Nevan "I don't know much of this one. I ought to remedy that." Ser Otto "I don't know much of this one. I ought to remedy that." Inactive/Deceased Young Lord Diarmud "My late husband. Though I was only 15 when we married, I can honestly say that I loved him. And, contrary to popular opinion, at times I still miss him. It's rather like toothache for the conscience." Lady Emylie The second child of the Erenford family, and the oldest daughter. Unlike her more weapon and combat oriented brothers, she is more adept at politics and more administrative topics. Young Lord Marvish Emylie's elder brother and reluctant heir to House Erenford, who was slain during the recent battles surrounding Stonebridge. House Frey "Never turn your back." show members Lord Walder "My grandfather. The only daughter of his eldest daughter, yet we only meet on occasion. Pity." Lady Lyanna "I would be a hypocrite not to respect this one for the position she has claimed. But she-wolves are wary of one another, whether they share admiration or not. I fear she lends her ear too often to her peers." Ser Maldred "A bastard who seems not to grasp what a bastard is. Or, more importantly, what he is not. Something about this man unsettles me greatly. So long as he stays away though, I don't much care." Lady Firth "A so-called 'ambassador' who seems yet to struggle with the notion of rank. It's one thing to see one's ambitions realised, quite another to simply have ideas above one's station with nothing to back them. Strangely, I've yet to meet this one face to face - I know her only for her dislike of my cousin and attempts to demean her. You ought know better than fuck with the Haighs, sweetness. Walk before you can run, eh?" Lady Jaimera "It's a delicate situation, when you find yourself respecting a woman for all the qualities that would have you loathe her. Unapologetic and arrogant in the extreme. But for all her eccentricities, there's still a keen mind in there. My aunt is not one to lower your guard around." House Nayland "Another vassal of House Frey, the Naylands established themselves quite impressively in Stonebridge. Though that's only because they had no competition from their betters. Times change." show members Ser Tyroan "The first of them, to my knowledge to brave the venture to Highfield. I didn't speak with him, myself, but I hear he left as intact as when he arrived." Rafferdy Nayland "First he ruins my cousin, then he almost has Aleister killed in his stead. Fucking whelp best be glad we've never crossed paths." Lady Jocelyn "She was a hostage during the combined battle waged against Stonebridge. And now she wants to play sweetness and light with my brother? Watch your step, princess." Lord Aeron "You have to admire the brass bollocks of the man, attending a celebration at Broadmoor, neck deep in enemies of his House, just because his wild little wife-to-be demanded it of him." Inactive/Deceased Ser Rygar "Though rumors suggest this man to be as warm and charismatic as a rock, there is much to be admired in experienced warriors. You don't see many of any great age, after all. What might be taken as a brusque, even rude, manner to some, I prefer to think of as efficient and pragmatic. Pity he's a Nayland, really." Ser Gedeon "Pleasant enough for a bastard and apparently accepting of his place in the world. I still believe Danae was a fool to marry him, though. Nevermind, he's dead now." House Mallister "I've had little to do with them, to be honest. Cry me a river." show members Ser Martyn "I don't see what all the fuss is about, quite frankly. Yes, he might have made an amenable husband had he wed Katrin. But since he hasn't, he can maintain his bloody distance. What ever happened to knights with some notion of chivalry? Oh, I know what's gone on. And he had best watch his step." Lady Muirenn "I don't know much, other than that she recently married an Erenford. And not even the heir. Was it ambition or worth that she lacked?" House Flint "Vassals of House Stark, aren't they? They seem not to threaten our interests." show members Young Lord Anders "Flawless etiquette and that stoic Northern attitude. At a glance, Ser Anders may some aloof but I have found his company to be remarkably pleasant, thus far. And, of course, my cousin is squired to him. This is a man of worthwhile opinions and no fear of making them known. I admire that." Lord Emrys "Brother to that witch I've heard about. Pity. He knows his flesh, equine and otherwise. He's a cousin of Anders' though, so perhaps he's not entirely guilty by association. Who knows." Einar "A distant cousin of some sort, I hear he died honorably - refusing to leave his plague ridden people until the Stranger himself claimed him. He will be missed." Lady Nerys "I may have misjudged her. She seems perfectly pleasant and dedicated to her family. No threat whatsoever." House Charlton "Traitors!" Others show Lady Danae "Cherise' cousin. Not nearly so naive as she pretends to be. But then, what self-respecting noblewoman is? And you don't get what you don't ask for.. perhaps she just asked a little much for the great exertion of opening her legs.. oh well, she's with her beloved, now." Young Lord Alric "The heir to a minor vassal, I'm not certain where his true interests lie, beyond his own ambition. And that makes him a problem. If he presses Aleister much further, he will be a memory, instead. His union with Ilaria brings with it the vassalage of his House. Time will tell whether it's worth the trouble." Freya Caul "You can only give people so many chances." Personal Typology 'INTPs are quiet, thoughtful, analytical individuals who tend to spend long periods of time on their own, working through problems and forming solutions. INTPs tend to be less at ease in "caring professions". They also tend to be impatient with the bureaucracy, rigid hierarchies, and the politics prevalent in many professions. INTPs have little regard for titles and badges, which they often consider to be unjustified. INTPs usually come to distrust authority as hindering the uptake of novel ideas and the search for knowledge. INTPs accept ideas based on merit, rather than tradition or authority. They have little patience for social customs that seem illogical or that serve as obstacles for pursuing ideas and knowledge. INTPs are driven to fully understand a discussion from all relevant angles. Their impatience with seemingly indefensible ideas can make them particularly devastating at debate. When INTPs feel insulted, they may respond with sudden, cutting criticism. After such an incident, INTPs are likely to be as bewildered as the recipient. They have broken the rules of debate and exposed their raw emotions. To INTPs, this is the crux of the problem: improperly handled emotions, INTPs believe, can only harm. While INTPs experience emotions as an important part of their internal lives, and sometimes share their emotions with others, INTPs nevertheless believe that emotions must not play a role in logical discussions, or be expressed in a way that would put themselves at disadvantage.' Ceinlys has been classified as an INTP (32/23/25/31) according to the Keirsey Typology personality test. Full description can be found here. A version of the test you can take "in character" (or out) can be found here. Quirks Addict: Ceinlys has a long-term addiction to Sweetsleep, a drug used to calm the nerves. Used incorrectly, it may lull one into a deep slumber, or even a coma. It only takes a few grains on the tongue, though, to soothe a rattled, overactive mind. Enigmatic: The young lady just has that certain je ne sais quoi. While she makes no attempt to beguile or seduce her way to what she wants, she has a natural charm and knack for empathy (not that you'd believe it) that makes it easy for her to read the needs of others.. and present herself accordingly. Social Climber: From a young bride to the Erenford heir, to Steward of a Charlton holding when they were the richest of Lord Frey's vassals and now Steward of one of the wealthiest holdings in the Riverlands, it's safe to say Ceinlys has always had aspirations beyond her station and the drive to see her schemes come to fruition. But you don't get there without making a few enemies along the way.. and as such an asset to the House, there's no suitable match for marriage in her near future. Ah well, can't have everything. Gallery Soundtrack Personal: Emilie Autumn - What If 'What if I'm a weeping willow / laughing tears upon my pillow? / what if I'm a socialite who wants to be alone?' For Bastien Emeli Sande - Beneath Your Beautiful 'You've carried on so long / You couldn't stop if you tried it / You've built your wall so high / That no one could climb it' For Daryl The Kills - Kissy Kissy 'It's been a long time coming / It's been a long time coming / I'm gonna stab your kissy kissy heart / It's been a long time coming..' For others For Aron: A Perfect Circle - Counting Bodies Like Sheep For Aleister: Within Temptation - A Dangerous Mind For Anders: Iron Maiden - Journeyman For Briallyn, Katrin and Ilaria: Mumford and Sons - After the Storm (yes, even Cein has a soft side) For Maldred: Slipknot - Before I Forget Quotes "Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principals which direct them." "You can admire qualities in all manner of things and desire them. But that sort of collecting is only truly craving the envy of one's peers. Not for love of the thing itself. That was the difference between Aleister and I, in the end. But everything is a lesson. Even the ones that bring us to our knees will strengthen us, in some way. Like you. You will be forever changed… but you won't shatter. Not everyone will be able to say the same. And I.. well, honestly? I will always shut people out. Because letting them in is a weakness I cannot afford ever again." Ceinlys, to Daryl Ashwood "Destiny is an ever changing thing, my dear. It's presented to us and changes as we force it to. But as with anything, a measure of luck never hurts and should never be overlooked." A pause is taken as he studies her a little more intently, his eyes narrowed just a touch as he does so. "Fear is something to be respected and remembered and nothing more. If one claims they have none, then they are lying and will likely find themselves dead much sooner then they think." — Aleister Ashwood <OOC> Briallyn says, "Cein is scary." <OOC> Briallyn says, "It's a good thing that there's a canon, or I suspect she'd be Robert's Queen." "Look at me. And listen. If I so desired, I could use you to further my own ends. I could leave you in ruin. I could manipulate you with the mere implications and suggestions of offering you what you desire, and you would say yes. I am ambitious. I am everything you think of me. That doesn't make my desire for you any less real, Aleister. And believe me.. it's infuriating." — Ceinlys, to Aleister Ashwood "You should believe me when I say that you were my greatest appointment yet. Master at Arms is a promotion, there is no doubt, but between sharing the company of a beautiful lady, even if I cannot touch her, and training men who smell like they've grown up inside a pen, I would choose your side every time." "..and exactly how many ladies do you go about touching, Ser?" — Ceinlys and Bastien Ashwood "One bitch in armor is more then enough for the Riverlands, dearheart." "..this bitch has no need for armor." — Ceinlys and Aleister Ashwood "Every other lady I know has to rely upon a husband to make her anything remotely resembling important. And even then, it's mostly just for the carrying of their heirs. I tried that life.. and you see how well it turned out." Hmm. Dead husband, disowned wife. Questionable daughter. "Aleister, even at the worst of times, treated me as an equal." - Ceinlys "Calm yourself." "I am calm!" — Ceinlys and Ilaria Haigh "…what's spoken, from both of us, could be nothing more then an added layer to a game that's spiral'd beyond control. Can we truly trust what the other says, even now? Or do we play to the wishes and whims of the other, feeding them that in which we think they want to hear?" — Aleister Logs All Logs Page 556: Milk and Ice (aeron ceinlys eryk logs martyn social) Page 554: After the Night Before (aeron ceinlys daryl faline freya logs mortimer nathaniel social) Page 554: A Moment of Sweetness (bastien ceinlys logs social) Page 553: Finishing Touches (aeron ceinlys daryl erik laryssa logs social) Page 553: A Wedding at Broadmoor, Part II (aemy alric arabella bastien brennart ceinlys daryl erik event firth garion ilaria jaimera kamron katrin laryssa logs lyanna maldred martyn mortimer muirenn nedra perrin robben saffron visenya) Page 553: A Wedding at Broadmoor, Part I (aemy aeron alric arabella bastien brennart ceinlys daryl erik event firth garion ilaria jaimera kamron katrin laryssa logs lyanna maldred martyn mortimer muirenn nedra perrin robben saffron visenya) Page 552: Garden Gathering (aemy aeron alric ceinlys daryl erik ilaria laryssa logs lothar maldred nedra robben sabriel social) Page 551: A courier, by any other name (bastien ceinlys logs social) Page 549: So Play Nice (ceinlys daryl garett kaelea logs pariston social) Page 535: What's Love Got to Do With It? (ceinlys daryl katrin logs social) Page 535: A Subtle Tension (ceinlys logs lyanna robben social) Page 533: To Share a Burden (bastien ceinlys daryl logs robben social) Page 512: By Candle's Light (ceinlys daryl logs social) Page 511: If We Shadows Have Offended (arabella ceinlys freya jocelyn katrin logs social) Page 508: No Picnic (ceinlys daryl logs ozric social) Page 506: Blood, Sweat and Tears (ceinlys daryl logs social) Page 504: We Are Not Amused (ceinlys daryl logs social) Page 501: Heartfelt (ceinlys daryl logs social) Page 500: In Truth I am the Least (ceinlys daryl logs perrin social) Page 499: An Inadvertent Distraction (ceinlys emrys logs social) page 1 of 41234next »

+ Background

Background

Stories and smoke ruined lives of lesser girls…

Blinking away the acrid cloud of grey haze that assailed her eyes and throat, Ceinlys Haigh stared unseeingly toward the cairn, idly watching the retainers of her household bear the casket of her late husband into the confines of the tomb where he would be left to his solitude for ages to come. At a glance, an observer would the tearshine in her eyes, as one would expect, the raw sorrow of a new widow, particularly one so young.

She inhaled another deep lungful of smoke.

Ser Diarmad Erenford, son of Lord Miraz. An unremarkable young knight, a merchant lacking in any genuine talent and with a tongue of bronze rather than silver. Their union had seemed, to her, one of necessity; to rid her father's household of another hungry mouth as soon as possible, to any who would have her. Her mother, contrastingly, had desired only to keep her daughter, so similar in temperament and desires, close to the rest of the family. And it would appear the choice had fallen upon a nobody who met his end not in the glory of the battle her kin rode toward, but squalling in the mud amid the tents of camp whores, choking on his own blood and vomit as it gurgled from his slit throat.

A great tragedy, the servants murmured. An indictment of the lawless folks of such worlds, agreed the Priests. But never once was the word 'surprise' used.

As the men began carefully stacking the rocks gathered for this grim purpose, Ceinlys allowed one palm to meander downward, skimming across the slender lines of her abdomen, fingertips caressing the staid black linen she had donned for the occasion. She was not yet showing. Was that a blessing or a curse? Would the existence of an heir be a burden or her good fortune, in the wake of her husband's demise?

Swallowing hard - unthinkingly lending further weight to her desolate mask of grief - the teenager kept her icy blue eyes steadfast upon the cairn, unaware of her waning pallor. It had been a risky game. The cards she had been dealt may yet prove not to be enough. But for now at least.. she had her way. And soon? Soon she would see herself wed to a man of great standing and wealth.

Ceinlys turned her back on the tomb as the last stone was reverently placed, keeping her palm pressed lovingly to her as yet concave midsection and drawing an unsteady breath. Time would tell. It was the only thing in this world with the promise of certainty.

With her three brothers bound for battle, in support of their Lord and liege, Frey, Broadmoor would be quiet. For that much, she was grateful. A few months to come to terms with her 'delicate' condition. To make preparations, with the aid of her mother. Of all the family, she would be the one who might approve of the path her only daughter had elected to tread. Haighs were always known for their ambitions… and their ruthlessness. For that reason, Ceinlys held no fear for repercussion from Lord Ser Leslyn. Nor two of her brothers. Harys was frankly dismissive of such petty affairs that women concern themselves with, and at fourteen, a year her junior and a fresh squire, Donnel had enough to think of already.

But what would Aron say?

When it came to her blue-eyed sibling, second son of the House, her foresight met a fathomless stone wall, bleak and unyielding. They had always been close. Strangely so, even as children. She had ever been the only one with the touch to calm him, the reasoning to avert disastrous conflict between he and their sire. But his opinion carried too much weight in her decisions, at times.

Turning her face upward into the chill breeze that whipped her raven hair about her cheeks, the girl permitted herself a smile as cold as the winters she had never seen.

Stories and smoke. What might be the downfall of others would be the making of Ceinlys Haigh… one way or another.