Tumgik
#cranborne chase
alifeingrain · 1 year
Photo
Tumblr media
Cranborne, Wiltshire - September 2022 Rolleicord Vb on Kodak Gold 200
2K notes · View notes
ednyfedfychan · 3 months
Text
“While Anne was in the Tower courageously facing her judges, Jane was staying with Sir Nicholas Carew in a house a few miles from London. She was one of the first to learn of the Queen's condemnation and sentence; Henry sent her childhood friend and protégé, Sir Francis Bryan, with the news shortly after he received it, and himself called upon her in the afternoon. The ten days that elapsed between her betrothal to the King and the marriage in Whitehall were spent by Jane at her family home. The legend that the wedding festivities took place in the great barn at Wulfhall, which stood close to the house, may have had its origin in celebration parties given in honour of the future queen by her parents, for we can imagine the excitement among the Wiltshire neighbours and the pride of the jubilant Seymours. We do not know what dazzling gifts of jewellery Henry may have given to his bride as a wedding present - surely they must have included the precious stones that we believe she so demurely rejected a few months back - but in the matter of property he was certainly not ungenerous. No fewer than one hundred and four manors dispersed throughout nineteen counties were transferred to Jane, with five castles and a number of chases and forests, including Cranborne Chase, then a vast area of open forest concealing tiny hamlets, and still one of England's most beautiful stretches of down and woodland. In London she was given Paris Garden, a somewhat unattractive piece of land on the south bank of the Thames that took its name from a previous owner, Robert de Paris, and when not used for bearbaiting was the favourite venue for women of easy virtue.”
— William Seymour, Ordeal by ambition: An English family in the shadow of the Tudors
0 notes
gillianiriss · 6 months
Text
 Abbiamo realizzato a mano una torre di meringa
C'era davvero solo una scelta per il nostro locale, The Larmer Tree Gardens, situato nella bellissima Cranborne Chase al confine tra Dorset e Wiltshire. Ogni anno tengono il festival musicale più incredibile e il posto ha ricordi davvero speciali per noi. Gli 11 acri di giardini hanno fornito l'ambiente informale più unico e perfetto per il nostro matrimonio. Con Pimms sul prato, sedie a sdraio, croquet, pavoni e il più incredibile palcoscenico musicale all'aperto, non potremmo immaginare una location più perfetta. Era importante che volevamo assolutamente sposarci nei giardini. Abbiamo potuto scambiarci i voti nella sala romana mentre i nostri ospiti cuocevano al sole sul prato per prendere il sole Gillne.it, siamo stati incredibilmente fortunati con il tempo.
Era importante per me e Nick aggiungere quanti più tocchi personali possibile. Abbiamo realizzato a mano una torre di meringa, migliaia di cuori di carta origami e rose, e abbiamo creato un CD delle nostre canzoni preferite da regalare come bomboniere. Ma il successo più grande è stato senza dubbio le lettere di ringraziamento personalizzate che abbiamo scritto a ciascuno dei nostri 50 ospiti. Sono stati spazzati via e abbiamo anche avuto qualche lacrima! Ci sono volute un paio di settimane per scriverle tutte ma non costavano nulla ed era l'unica cosa che i nostri ospiti avrebbero ricordato per sempre.
Tumblr media
0 notes
skyhighhub4 · 8 months
Text
Enchanting Charms of Dorset: A Gem of England
Tumblr media
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of southern England, the county of Dorset stands as an enchanting gem, beckoning travelers with its stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and timeless charm. Renowned for its rugged Jurassic Coast, rolling hills, and quaint villages, Dorset offers a quintessential British experience that captivates both locals and visitors alike. In this article, we embark on a virtual journey through the breathtaking highlights of Dorset, hotels with pool in Dorset ,uncovering its hidden treasures, and showcasing why it remains a beloved destination.
1. Jurassic Coast - A Walk Through Time
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, the Jurassic Coast stretches for 95 miles along the southern coastline of Dorset and East Devon. This geological wonder reveals a remarkable timeline of Earth's history, with cliffs that boast a kaleidoscope of colors reflecting different periods. From Old Harry Rocks near Swanage to the famous Durdle Door and beyond, visitors can trace the footsteps of dinosaurs that once roamed these ancient shores. The sweeping views of the English Channel and unique rock formations make the Jurassic Coast a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
2. Historic Landmarks and Charming Villages
Dorset is steeped in history, with numerous landmarks that showcase its rich heritage. Corfe Castle, an iconic medieval fortress standing atop a hill, tells tales of battles and intrigue from centuries past. Maiden Castle, one of the largest hillforts in Europe, provides a glimpse into prehistoric life. Additionally, the picturesque villages of Dorset, like Abbotsbury, Cerne Abbas, and Milton Abbas, offer postcard-perfect scenes with their thatched-roof cottages, ancient churches, and traditional pubs.
3. Bustling Market Towns
Dorset boasts a collection of vibrant market towns that buzz with life and provide a taste of authentic local culture. Blandford Forum, known for its Georgian architecture and the River Stour running through its heart, offers a delightful shopping experience and a chance to explore the nearby Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Bridport, famous for its markets and arts scene, attracts creative minds and antique enthusiasts. These towns are not just places to shop; they serve as gateways to the diverse landscapes that surround them.
4. Culinary Delights
No trip to Dorset would be complete without savoring its culinary delights. With access to both the sea and the countryside, the county boasts an abundance of fresh produce, seafood, and delectable dishes. From traditional cream teas with scones and clotted cream to locally brewed ales and ciders, Dorset's gastronomy delights the senses. The county also hosts numerous food festivals, allowing visitors to sample the best of Dorset's culinary offerings.
5. Outdoor Adventures
For adventure enthusiasts, Dorset presents a playground of activities to indulge in. The diverse landscapes of the county make it an ideal destination for hiking, cycling, and horse riding. The South West Coast Path offers breathtaking views and invigorating coastal walks. Watersports lovers can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing along the coast, while inland, the rolling hills provide ample opportunities for exploration and outdoor escapades.
6. Literature and Art Connections
Dorset has inspired countless writers and artists throughout history, including Thomas Hardy, one of England's most celebrated authors. Visitors can explore Hardy's Cottage, where he penned some of his most famous works, or venture to Max Gate, his later residence. The county's landscapes have also influenced the works of other artists, and art galleries in towns like Dorchester and Bridport exhibit the talent that Dorset continues to nurture.
7. Festivals and Events
Dorset's calendar is filled with vibrant festivals and events that celebrate its heritage, arts, and culture. From the Great Dorset Steam Fair, showcasing vintage machinery and rural traditions, to the Dorset County Show, an agricultural extravaganza, these gatherings bring locals and tourists together to revel in the county's unique spirit.
Hotels with Pools in Dorset: Unwind in Serene Luxury
To make the most of your enchanting Dorset getaway, indulge in the serene luxury offered by hotels featuring pools. After a day of exploring the Jurassic Coast or wandering through charming villages, there's nothing quite like a refreshing dip in a pool to rejuvenate your senses.
Dorset boasts a selection of top-notch hotels that cater to your every need. Whether you seek a lavish resort with stunning coastal views or a cozy boutique hotel nestled amidst the countryside, you'll find a perfect match. Relax poolside with a book, take in the surrounding beauty, or simply bask in the tranquility that these accommodations provide.
Conclusion:
Incorporating a stay at a hotel with a pool into your Dorset adventure adds an extra touch of comfort and indulgence, ensuring that your trip to this captivating English county is nothing short of extraordinary. Plan your visit today and dive into the enchanting charms of Dorset!
ALSO VISIT : Uncovering the Best Stays with Luxurious Amenities for an Unforgettable Stay
Exploring Dorset: A Treasure Trove of Experiences
Best hotels with pool in Dorset
best hotels in Dorset that come complete
0 notes
shaftesburydorset · 1 year
Text
Located on a hilltop in Dorset, Shaftesbury is most famous for the cobblestones and cottages of Gold Hill, which was immortalised in a Hovis advert during the 70s.
Gold Hill in the interesting town of Shaftesbury, England
While Shaftesbury has been influential since the days of Roman Brittania, it became one of England’s richest religious establishments when King Alfred ordered the construction of Shaftesbury Abbey in the year 888.
Unfortunately, the abbey was destroyed under Henry VIII during the 16th century, but a venerable stone wall from the original abbey remains standing on Gold Hill. Visit the Shaftesbury Abbey, Museum and Garden Trust for more insights into the town’s Anglo-Saxon and medieval past.
In addition to being a mecca for history buffs, Shaftesbury is a nature-lovers paradise. Scenic overlooks offer panoramic views of Blackmore Vale and the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You’ll see most of Shaftesbury’s historical and natural highlights by following the Shaftesbury Heritage Trail. It’s a really interesting town in England to visit.
0 notes
abroadandabout · 2 years
Text
Tumblr media Tumblr media
Heading out of the village of Farnham to explore the countryside of Cranborne Chase. Liz was our expert leader… we had our ordinance maps in hand and a “trip tik” style guide from Foot Trails guiding us along the route. We made our way on “paths” through fields of barley and crops that had not been walked in over 2 years due to COVID, so paths overgrown. Route was “cross into the field and head at 11:00 diagonally across to the far corner. Find the stile (sometimes pretty rickety ) and cross over into the next field”!
Tumblr media
Beautiful countryside on all sides !
0 notes
mostly-history · 5 years
Photo
Tumblr media
Part of the Dorset Cursus, a 10km-long Neolithic cursus monument.
Cursus monuments are long parallel lines of ditches, crossing what would have been cleared countryside.  They were part of the Neolithic ritual landscape.
The Dorset Cursus is known for its extreme length, compared to other cursus monuments.  It runs along the chalk downland of Cranborne Chase in east Dorset.  It was probably constructed as two cursus, each the same length, with the Gussage Cursus (in the south) predating the Pentridge Cursus (in the north).
6 notes · View notes
casadabiqueira · 3 years
Photo
Tumblr media
Cranborne Chase seen from Charlton Down, near Shaftesbury, Wiltshire
Guy Edwardes
92 notes · View notes
alj4890 · 3 years
Text
Misfortune's Intentions
Tumblr media
(Liam x OC*Elisse Millan) (Drake x Riley) in a Choices The Royal Heir fan fiction
A/N Time continues to go by. Riley is nearing the end of her second trimester. Liam and Elisse will have their first date in front of the court during a ball he is hosting. The two have managed to have a few private dates since that one on a sailboat. While they continue to fall for one another, concerns and words are shared by those closest to them. This chapter mentions a certain event that happened later in the TRH canon, but I added it now and of course ended it like I wished.
@gkittylove99​ @krsnlove​ @kingliam2019​ @texaskitten30​ @hopefulmoonobject​ @yourmajesty09​ @mom2000aggie​ @ofpixelsandscribbles​
Masterlist
Chapter 4 Moonlight and Secrets
Cranborne Manor, Cordonia...
"Aren't you glad I had you bring this?" Amalas held up the black ball gown. "I know Liam will be."
Elisse's cheeks heated with color. "If I say yes, will you stop talking about my going as his date?"
"Why? I think it's actually sweet that he asked you." Amalas leaned down to smell the roses that had arrived earlier. "Even though I'm not a romantic like some people I know," she smiled at her cousin, "I can still be happy that you found someone that you actually like."
"I should have known you wouldn't be able to stop talking." Elisse teased. "I'm nervous enough as it is."
She snatched the card Liam had sent with the roses out of Amalas's hands.
"Elisse?" A wicked smile formed. "What did he write?"
"Nothing to concern yourself over." She dodged her trying to grab it. "Amalas! Is this any way for a queen to behave?!" She turned holding it as far away from her as she could.
All the commotion they made drew an anxious Felix into the room.
One look at the two climbing over furniture while chasing each other let him know exactly what was going on.
"Elisse!" Amalas dodged a bed pillow. "You would dare strike your queen?!"
"Without any regret whatsoever." Elisse tripped over the bottom of her robe and went tumbling down.
Amalas pounced, snatching the card away.
"Aha!" She held it above her head in victory.
Felix plucked it from her grasp.
"Felix!" She rounded on him. "Hand that over."
"Yes, your majesty." With all the seriousness he could muster, he handed it to Elisse.
"Ha!" Elisse held it against her heart. "Thank you, Felix."
"What is this treason?" Amalas had her hands on her hips. Her usual intimidating frown was ruined by her hair sticking up at odd angles.
"Forgive me your majesty," he bowed, "but I was under the impression you wanted it to go to its owner."
"In other words," Elisse loudly whispered, "Felix likes me better."
The cousins burst into giggles much as they used to before Amalas became queen.
Felix quietly shut the door before allowing a smile to appear on his face. After all that had occurred for his queen and lady, he had forgotten how infectious their happiness could be.
"Tell the truth." Amalas sat down on the bed. "You're falling in love with Liam."
Elisse sat down once more at her vanity. Amalas could see the soft glow on her face in the reflection of the mirror as she looked down at his card.
"He makes it impossible not to fall in love." She shyly admitted.
"Looks like whatever happens, I will still have an alliance with Corodnia."
Elisse glared playfully at her. "You're runing the romance."
"Then I guess Liam will have his work cut out for him tonight."
****************
Cordonia's Royal Palace, Riley and Drake’s chambers...
"While they are here, maybe you could sneak over to Cranborne and see if you find anything that we should know." Riley whispered.
Olivia's brow furrowed. "I've been investigating Elisse. Nothing except for her time spent in America has been found. She has spent most of her life in Monterisso."
"I think if Amalas is planning anything, her cousin is not a part of it." Hana added.
Riley closed her eyes. She knew she was becoming obsessive over this woman. But after hearing Liam's confession of how he felt toward her and Drake. She owed him a lady he could freely love who wouldn't betray him.
Though she loved Drake more than anyone, she easily remembered those times she snuck off with Liam during his social season. The butterflies and sweet moments had caused her to fall for him as well as his grumpy friend.
She knew if Drake had continued to push her away, she might have given in and married Liam.
And how much more horrible would I have been to do that while longing for his best friend?
"This will be the last time." She told them. "If nothing is discovered of her time in America or that she and Amalas are planning something nefarious for Cordonia, then I will accept that Liam is safe with Elisse."
"Very well." Olivia stood up. "We'll let you know what we find."
"Or hopefully don't find." Hana added as she followed her out.
Riley dabbed at the stray tears in her eyes with a tissue. Between concerns over Elisse and Liam and having to keep from making an arranged marriage for her yet to be born baby was getting to her.
There were numerous times she secretly wished she had never agreed to have the royal heir. It is too much to deal with. Her pregnancy wasn't going at all like she used to dream about.
For one thing, it had happened much sooner than she had wanted. She would have loved to have had a year or two of just her and Drake trying to figure out how to be Cordonia's newest Duke and Duchess. Plus it would have been nice to enjoy being a newlywed that could wear lingerie and go out on fun, late night dates with her husband.
But to give birth to the, "chosen one," was driving her crazy. All the photos taken of her. The more than usually required doctor visits. The lack of privacy. The events. Having everyone with them with no time alone with her husband...
"Dammit!" She couldn't stop her tears. Her makeup was ruined.
"Riley?" Drake poked his head into their room. "What's wrong?"
She hurried into his embrace.
He rubbed soothing circles on her back. "Hormones?"
"Yes." She then shook her head. "No. I don't know."
He pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "You know you can talk to me." He swallowed nervously. "Even if it is about Liam?"
"It's not him." She reached for more tissues. "It's us. Me, you, the baby. Our life." She blew her nose. "No privacy. No time to take in the fact that in three months we will have someone to take care of."
He continued to hold her.
"And this whole royal heir business." She lifted her eyes to his. "Do you really want our baby to be in line for the throne?"
She saw the hesitation flicker in his face.
"We owe Liam so much." He said. "He has asked so little from us. This seemed like the least we could do and it is an honor he wanted our child for that position."
"Drake we are deciding our child's entire future without even meeting him or her." She reminded him. "What if the baby is like you and prefers to live a quiet life? We will have forced the one we want to protect into the very position that takes away every freedom they have."
Drake lowered his eyes. "I know."
She hugged him close. "What are we going to do?"
"I--I don't know." He held her tight. "I just don't know."
***************
A few hours later, Cranborne Manor...
Elisse took a deep breath on the way to answer the front door.
"M'lady," Liam handed her a long stem red rose. "You look beautiful."
"Thank you." She let her eyes travel over him in his formal regalia. "You look very handsome."
His smile turned flirty. "Are you ready for our first ball as a couple?"
With a nod, she retrieved her clutch and took his hand. "Liam?"
"Yes?"
"Are you sure about this?" She whispered when they reached Bastien holding the car door for them.
Liam took both of her hands in his. "I am."
"Even though I can't--"
He pressed a tender kiss to her lips, cutting off her reason for doubting he should be with her.
"You're who makes me happy." He whispered against her lips. "Regardless of whether or not you can have children."
She cupped his cheek and pressed another tender kiss to his lips in quiet gratitude.
He smiled softly as she got into car's backseat then followed after her.
Once the vehicle turned a corner, Olivia and Hana sneaked out of their hiding place.
"Queen Amalas left with her bodyguard earlier." Olivia whispered. "We will have free reign to search the house."
Hana shivered in the cool night air. "I suppose we should be grateful for that."
She watched quietly as the duchess expertly picked the lock.
"After you." She waved Hana inside.
***************
The Royal Ballroom...
Conversations were focused on one thing this evening: Liam had brought a date to the ball. 
Regina went from group to group saying how happy she was that he had settled on a lady that she so highly approved of.
"It is rare to find someone who understands the pressure he is under. Lady Elisse is a pleasure to be around." She said while she and a few others watched the two waltz.
Nobles soon were murmuring praises and wishes to see Liam settle down with Elisse.
"Monterisso and Cordonia's alliance under their marriage would make us the envy to many of the surrounding countries."
"Seeing a young king settle down would add more reassurance to foreign powers about the stability of our country."
"They do make a cute couple." Penelope whispered to Zeke.
Amalas chuckled softly at overhearing this latest compliment. She caught her cousin's eye and lifted her champagne flute to her.
Elisse's blush responded to that.
Liam's smile was warm when he noticed it. He leaned closer to her ear and whispered something that caused her to laugh with a shake of her head.
Elisse then was seen looking up at him with an expression that could only be described as complete adoration.
"You've been busy."
Amalas took a steadying breath before responding.
"King Bradshaw." She inclined her head. "I think we have all been busy in Cordonia."
He hmphed. "Some of us though aren't wooing the king and parents of the heir."
She kept her face devoid of emotion while she sipped her champagne.
He narrowed his eyes at her silence. "I see you aren't denying it."
"I've yet to hear an accusation worth addressing." She smiled sweetly as she walked away. "Do give my best to Isabella."
**************
Another hour later...
"Shouldn't you be making the rounds?"
Liam wrapped his arm around his date. "I should but I would rather stand here with you."
"You won't hear any arguments from me." Elisse closed her eyes when she felt his lips brush her cheek. "People will talk if you keep that up."
"It's about time I gave them something new to gossip over." He teased.
"I can hear them now. Our king has been captured by that wicked Monterisso viscountess."
He snorted. "I doubt they would use the word wicked." He tugged her closer. "Most likely conniving."
Her overly dramatic gasp made him laugh.
"I suppose I should be using my feminine whiles on you." She looped her arms around his neck. "But you, sir, are simply too distracting."
"A Monterisson noble unable to do her job?" He shook his head in mock pity. "I suppose I will have to keep you here rather than allow you to return home in shame."
"Why, your majesty. Is this a scheme to keep me at your beck and call?"
"You caught me, m'lady." His teasing smile turned tender.
"Ahem."
The two were surprised to see Olivia standing behind them.
"Liam, may I speak to you about something?" Her eyes darted briefly to Elisse. "In your study?"
Elisse stepped out of his arms.
"I'll be back." He promised her. He lifted her hand to his lips, enjoying the moment her smile reappeared.
With a nod to Olivia, he followed her out of the ballroom.
****************
"You did what?!" Liam's eyes narrowed. "Who told you to break into their home?"
Hana fidgeted beside Olivia. "Riley was worried with all the secrets Amalas is known to have and--"
"And--" Olivia glanced at Hana, receiving a nod, "some of us were concerned since you seem to be close to the queen's cousin."
He paced before them, doing his best to not lose his temper. "I know better than most about Monterisso."
"Liam, they have a file on you." Hana explained. "Files on all of us!"
"That isn't that surprising." Olivia grumbled. "I had files on all the ladies during the social season." A brief expression of admiration appeared. "I would have done the same to Amalas and Elisse if we were visiting their country."
"I already knew about the files." He told them.
"You did?"
"How?"
"Elisse." Liam ceased his pacing and faced them. "She has been nothing but honest with me."
"Did she tell you that there is a chance she--" Hana hesitated, wishing she hadn’t read the letters from Boston. "She--"
"Can't have children." Olivia finished softly. "We saw some medical reports in her room." Her sharp gaze softened. "She went through an experimental procedure to--"
"I know all of that." Liam interrupted. "She...she was supposed to be a part of my social season." His features hardened with memories. "My father refused to let her after her medical exam."
He snapped out of those what if thoughts. "Now then. Go tell Lady Riley to back off. There is nothing--"
Muffled screams filled the air.
"What was that?!" Hana jumped when Liam ran out the door.
"Liam!" Olivia shouted, already pulling two hidden daggers out. "Wait!"
******************
The Ballroom...
Everyone stared in horror at the drone that had crashed through the window. Queen Isabella trembled in her husband's arms with cuts along her face and arms.
"I recognize that." King Bradshaw pointed at Amalas. "This is one of the Spy Queen’s drones!"
Elisse surreptitiously made her way to Amalas's side and gripped her hand. The two remained calm as Bradshaw and Isabella riled the crowd up.
"I nearly died!" Isabella held up her arms with minor cuts. "My children could have been motherless all because she can't take a chance on Duchess Riley choosing us."
Riley paled as she looked from one ruler to another. Her hands slid protectively to her belly, wishing there was a way to get out of all this.
"I refuse to see Cordonia be threatened in such a fashion." Bradshaw straightened his shoulders. "Do not fear. My guards will--"
Liam appeared.
"King Liam!" Isabella cried out, tears streaking down her face. "Look--"
He held his hand up for silence as he examined the broken drone.
The whole court waited while he knelt beside it.
Bastien rushed to his side. "Sir, we need to get you to safety--"
"No we don't." Liam told him.
"Sir, it--"
Liam ordered him to be quiet as he turned the drone over. His lips firmed into a slight frown.
Olivia finally made it through the crowd, stopping in surprise at the piece of machinery on the ballroom floor.
"The Monterissons must be made to leave at once!" Isabella cried when Bradshaw quietly whispered to her.
"Unless you too want to be added to our list of enemies." Bradshaw warned.
Olivia's eyebrow raised. "Because of this?"
"That weapon nearly killed my wife." Bradshaw bit out.
"Strange." Liam finally said as he stood up. "One would think Queen Amalas would use one of her newer stealth drones instead of this one from five years ago."
Bradshaw and Isabella stilled.
"Given that you both say it attacked, I would have thought it would at least have been fitted with some type of weapon on it instead of an outdated camera." He continued.
The king and queen looked about at the crowd’s fear turning to confusion
"She's spying on us!" Bradshaw exclaimed. "All of us were being watched."
"She must be planning on eliminating all competition!" Isabella pointed at Elisse. "And that one was used to distract your king, Cordonia!"
Murmurs began again.
"They shouldn't be allowed to stay here." Godfrey muttered.
"What if one of us had been struck with that drone?" Kiara was heard to whisper.
"Did they see everything we have been doing? What if they begin to blackmail us?!" Adelaide added.
Bradshaw smirked at Amalas as the murmurs grew louder, demanding that she and Elisse be forced to leave.
Liam could feel a sense of déjà vu. Memories of his coronation ball came to mind.
This very crowd had demanded that Riley be thrown out of Cordonia and thus out of his life. He had stood by quietly and let it happen, thinking he was protecting her.
He knew whatever love she had for him had been damaged in that moment.
He could still see Drake demanding the King's Guards let her go. His volunteering to go to New York for her. His promise to look out for her once she joined the engagement tour.
I can't let it happen again. I can't lose Elisse. Not now. Not when I know I'm falling in love with her.
He stepped protectively in front of Elisse and Amalas while Felix guarded their backs. Liam could feel his lady’s fingers brush his hand in need of reassurance.
"This drone proves nothing." He said, cutting off everyone's conversations. "Queen Amalas and Lady Elisse had nothing to do with this."
"How do you know that?" Bradshaw demanded.
"Because," Amalas stepped forward, "this particular drone requries a remote operator to fly it." She patted her suit pockets. "Which I nor Lady Elisse could possibly have on us, given it takes two hands to even hold the controler."
"Your guard!" Isabella lifted a trembling finger. "He--"
Felix emptied his pockets without a word. He handed his coat to Bastien and allowed him to pat him down.
"Perhaps we should check Auvernal's many guards." Lady Elisse countered as she stepped up beside Liam. She maintained her calm demeanor while facing the two that threatened her. "There might be one or two who are not happy with their king and queen."
Amalas smirked. "I worry for the intelligence of this person. To use a drone that is now no more than a child's plaything." She chuckled. "Of course, Auvernal isn't known for their brilliant minds."
"How dare you!" Bradshaw shouted. "My wife--"
"Is unharmed." Liam spoke over him.
One of Bastien’s agents returned with an Auvernal guard.
Isabella quickly rushed forward, striking the man when the remote control was discoverd. "You will pay for attacking your queen!"
"But, your majesty, I--"
"Silence!" Bradshaw yelled over him. He ordered his personal guard to remove the traitor.
Liam slipped his hand in Elisse's when more murmurs rose around them. He knew it was time to turn the tables on the ones who still threatened the woman beside him.
"Honored guests," he turned to face the crowd, "given that an attack has occurred, I'm certain that King Bradshaw will wish to take his queen back to Auvernal." Liam's cold fury settled on the royal. "He would never wish to bring possible harm to those he wishes to make his allies."
Bradshaw gave a jerky nod. "Yes." He eyed Amalas. "I will go and quash this particular problem."
Regina joined Liam as she encouraged everyone else to also retire for the night.
"Liam," Elisse let go of his hand, "You shouldn't have gotten invovled in this. Bradshaw will not let that embarrassment go unanaswered."
He pulled her into his embrace. "I was not about to let them take you away."
Amalas held her hand out to him. "I believe I also owe you my own thanks for helping everyone to see reason, King Liam."
Felix gratefully bowed his head to him.
"I couldn't let mob mentality take over." Liam explained. "Bradshaw has been acting more agressive in gaining a foothold in my country. I refuse to let him do so."
Drake and Riley joined them once the last few guests of the ball trickled out.
"You should be resting." Amalas told her. "All of tonight's stress can't be good for you and the baby."
"I know." Riley replied. "Which is why I need to speak to Liam."
His brow furrowed when he noticed how pale she was. "Why don't we wait until morning? You--"
"I can't wait." Her eyes filled with tears. "It will only take a moment."
Elisse gently squeezed him in a hug. "Amalas and I should return to Cranborne." She smiled when he kept her within his arms. "I know you have things to take care of here."
Without paying attention to their friends and family around them, Liam kissed her goodnight. He cupped her cheek as he told her he would see her in the morning.
Once she was gone, Liam faced his friends and Regina. "What is it you need to discuss?"
Riley swallowed at the lump forming in her throat. "It's about our baby."
***************
Liam's chambers at two in the morning...
After yanking off all the regalia and unbuttoning his shirt, Liam poured himself three fingers of scotch.
He took a couple of healthy gulps, closing his eyes to the decision that had once again upended his world.
He was back to being a ruler in a tenuous position.
A king without a wife. Without heirs.
His head dropped as he slumped into a chair.
Cradling the cut crystal tumbler, he thought of the conversation he had with his friends.
***************
"Liam, I..." Riley swiped at her tears. "I don't want my baby to be the royal heir."
"What?" He took a step back in shock, just as he had when she told him she couldn't marry him. "Riley, I know tonight's--"
"It isn't just because of tonight." She interrupted. "It's everything. It's too much for us to deal with." She gripped Drake's hand. "I can't force my child into this type of responsibility."
"It was an honor that you chose us." Drake continued. "But the stress is eating away at us."
Liam slowly nodded. "I understand." He slipped his hands into his pockets. “We will have a press conference tomorrow.”
With a broken sob, Riley hugged him. "I'm so sorry I can't do this for you after everything you have given me."
He gently patted her back. "You don't owe me a child out of gratitude."
"I know." She sniffed and stepped back. "You will still be a part of our baby's life?"
He smiled softly. "Of course."
"Someone will have to teach our baby manners." Drake pulled Liam into a brief hug, slapping his back. "Thank you for understanding."
"It's what Liam does best." Riley added.
Olivia, Hana, and Regina remained with him once the couple left the ballroom.
"What will you do now?" Olivia asked.
"I...I don't know." He admitted.
"What will you do about Elisse?" Regina prodded. "If you don't choose another heir, you will need to have one of your own."
He ran his hands over his face. "I'm not losing Elisse."
"Dear, I know you care for her, but you--"
"I'm not losing her." He repeated harshly. "She is exactly what I need in my life."
Seeing it was fruitless to argue, the queen mother bowed her head and quietly left them.
Hana looked between Liam and Olivia, unable to think of something comforting to diffuse the tension.
"Liam." Olivia tempered her tone. "Regina's right. You still need an heir." She reached over and squeezed his hand. "Elisse will understand that you have to end--"
Without a word, he left the two ladies standing there.
19 notes · View notes
earthanthem · 4 years
Photo
Tumblr media
(via Pinterest)
Cranborne Chase, Shaftesbury, Dorset, England by David Crosbie
21 notes · View notes
chalten26 · 5 years
Video
Cranborne Manor
flickr
Cranborne Manor por Pauline Ann Por Flickr: Cranborne Manor is situated in the village of Cranborne on the beautiful Cranborne Chase, an area of Natural Beauty. The Manor was built as a Hunting Lodge in 1712 & is the home of Viscount Cranborne, the eldest son of the 7th Marquess of Salisbury. The 17th century gardens are an absolute delight to see. IMG_2685A
37 notes · View notes
alifeingrain · 1 year
Photo
Tumblr media
Cranborne Chase, Wiltshire - September 2022 Rolleicord Vb on Kodak Gold 200
244 notes · View notes
idiotthewise · 5 years
Photo
Tumblr media
Make hay while the sun shines. #outthere #coutry #hay #bales #countryside #straw #cycling #cranbourne #wiltshire #ruffrootcreative #idiotthewise #nature #agriculture #farming #carrera #mountainbiking (at Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs) https://www.instagram.com/p/B29tYtuJVnd/?igshid=19ds7dw0maksb
1 note · View note
field-and-foxglove · 4 years
Video
Pentridge, May 6th
flickr
(via Pentridge, May 6th | The McKillop | Flickr)
0 notes
brocklrc · 4 years
Link
0 notes
patrick47 · 5 years
Text
The Enigma of Knowlton Church: The Excursionist VII
The Enigma of Knowlton Church: The Excursionist VII
[Knowlton Church…front facade]
In the middle of Cranborne Chase, a hilly and breezy open region in north Dorset,  is the shell of a Norman church.  Nothing special really.  These churches are found in many villages and hamlets of Dorset.  What is unusual is that it is built-in the middle of a Neolithic ritual henge (a ring of ridges dating from ancient days).
The church sits alone…surrounded by…
View On WordPress
0 notes