#queen ophelia | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

goddessofeternity · 2 years

Text

Love Amidst the Darkness

Chapter 17: Trouble in Paradise

“Honora! Do you have your bouquet!?”

“I found it! Princess don’t run! You’ll trip on your dress!” Althea slowed down and took the chance to catch her breath. Honora jogged up to her and placed her hand on her shoulder. “The wedding is in two hours. You can relax a bit.”

“I know…but this is the first wedding I’ve ever been a part of…” She ran her over the silk fabric of her dress. “The clothing from the Chowa empire is so beautiful and unique. I can’t wait to visit it soon.”

“Have you seen the empress yet? She looks amazing.”

“Oh she’s ready?! Well come on!” Althea gathered her skirts as Honora followed her to the dressing room for the empress. Knocking gently, she waited until she heard the shaky voice of the empress giving her permission to enter. “Oh! You look beautiful!”

The empress smiled nervously at her, as queen Hestia and Ophelia fixed the final pieces of her gown. Empress Yvette was sitting and eating some grapes as she looked over final preparations. “Xiaoli…relax, you're so nervous. Your tail is as stiff as a board.” The empress relaxed at her friend's words, but she was still a bit tense.

“Althea…have you…have you seen Liling?” The empress whispered to her, and Althea smiled brightly. “I-I mean is she alright?”

“She is very excited and happy. She is an absolute vision and you’ll be stunned when you see her.” The empress sighed deeply as she tried to calm herself. The other married women in the room chuckled at her nerves, remembering their own weddings.

“If it makes you feel better…an hour before my wedding…I thought taking a jog in my dress would calm me…” Queen Ophelia sighed at the memory. “I ended up tripping and landing in dragon dung. I spent two hours getting ready again. My king was highly amused by the whole thing.”

“Oh I was too,” Queen Hestia chuckled as her friend pouted. “I had no idea why you suddenly wanted to run laps around the palace. I never thought the smell would leave you.”

“Running keeps my mind clear and calm, you know that.” Empress Yvette chuckled from her spot and queen Ophelia rounded on her. “Oh and you were just so graceful huh?”

“Ahem…I have no idea what you mean…” The empress looked away as she petted her lioness. “I think my wedding went quite well.”

“Yes of course…if you count hiding in a tree for three hours well.” Queen Hestia smirked over the pins in her mouth. Fixing the hem of Xiaoli’s dress she looked her friend in the eyes. “You were really channeling the big cats. You were like a little kitten, shaking and mewling about how you wouldn’t come down no matter what. I thought we’d have the wedding in the trees.”

“Oh yes! How could I forget that…you finally came down after we got some food into your stomach. You were very content and happy after that.” Queen Ophelia laughed at the pout on her friend's face. “You can be quite the glutton.”

“Oh you hush Hestia,” Yvette huffed as she rubbed her growing stomach. “How about you tell us about your time, Hestia?” Althea looked at her mother excitedly as a blush took over her face.

“Oh well…I don’t think there is much to say…”

“Oh mother please! I’ve never heard this story before and I would love to hear about it.” The queen finished the hem on the empress's dress and sighed deeply.

“I do think it would help with my own nerves, Hestia.” Queen Hestia glared at the empress who snickered to herself, already keen to her ploy.

“Oh alright then.”

The queen coughed as she sat down in an armchair as she thought about her wedding day. Twirling a loose strand of hair, she sighed deeply as she looked over the other ladies in the room. “I…I was violently ill…”

“You were sick?” Althea tilted her head at her mothers statement.

“The council at the time thought I was pregnant and it took some time for it to blow over.” She sighed at the memory, before continuing. “I threw up over everything, including my wedding dress. Thankfully not the second one. Although my maids had to drag me to the altar, that was embarrassing, but I was trying to back out at the last minute.”

“Is getting married really that scary?” Althea was starting to fear the day of her own nuptials.

“Oh no…I was just being dramatic, but I was very nervous.” The queen gave her daughter a reassuring smile. “After our vows, your father spent the next hour dealing with me throwing up and crying. Tears of worry about being queen and happiness. It didn’t help that I was quite clumsy too. I think I tripped and stumbled over my words several times that day. I think that is where you got my clumsiness, my sweet rose.”

Althea puffed up her cheeks as the others chuckled at her. Honora bumped shoulders with her and she continued her pouting. It was not long before a maid came to tell them that it was time to start. The empress wasn’t shaking anymore, but she was still nervous. Althea was just excited to be a part of something so beautiful and meaningful. The empress was talking with her uncle who looked proud and seemed to be getting emotional. Althea and Honora went to get ready, but she noticed Duran looking over the garden. Honora smirked at her before she left to nibble on something really quickly. Althea fixed her hair quickly, before she went to join him.

“H-Hello Duran.”

“Oh! Princess…you look beautiful.” She smiled as he looked her up and down. Hearing him call her beautiful always brightened her up. “Are you excited for the wedding?”

“Oh yes! They both look amazing and I’m so honored to be a part of it. I didn’t know you were on duty today. I thought you had taken the day off to be with your family?”

“I did…but I was…I missed you…” Both teenagers' faces grew very red as they looked away from each other. It was such a bold statement, but it was not an unwelcome one all the same. “Sorry if that was um…”

“No no…I…I missed you as well.” He rubbed his head in embarrassment and she tugged gently at the sleeves of her gown.

“Ahem.” Both teens jumped at the voice behind them, and Althea smiled at Marina who looked between the two of them for a split second before she spoke up. “It’s beginning Althea, your mother was looking for you.”

“R-Right of course!” Looking at Duran one final time, she quickly left from his side. “I hope that I didn’t delay anything?”

“No, of course not. Your mother just wants everything to be perfect.” Althea looked at Marina as they went down the stairs to the garden. She could not remember the last time she had admired her, but she was still as beautiful as ever. There was a time that Althea thought she had her heart, but now someone else did. Althea wondered if she had never met Duran, would she still hold such feelings for her? Regardless, she sparked the first flame in her heart and she would always be grateful for that.

The gardens were done immaculately and so many more people than expected showed up for the nuptials. Empress Xiaoli was pacing and king Kyros was busy trying to talk her down. Althea didn’t see Liling but she was sure she was excited. Althea went to stand with Honora who gave her a teasing smile.

“Have a nice chat?”

“Oh hush…” She laughed and Althea looked away from her with a frown. It soon disappeared though as the wedding march began. Both girls went to their places and watched happily as the empress and Liling were united again. Both women could not take their eyes off the other as king Kyros and queen Hestia officiated the union. The ceremony tugged at Althea’s heart as the pair spoke their vows to the other. Althea and some others laughed as her parents barely made it official as Liling launched herself at the empress, sharing a deep and loving kiss. Everyone in attendance cheered and clapped for the newly wedded couple.

The rest of the day and later into the evening was a whirlwind of happiness and bliss. The empress never wanted to be parted from her wife for long. All the royals danced with each other and Althea danced until her feet started to hurt. She was a bit sad that she didn’t see Duran that much, but Honora kept her occupied. The two girls danced well into the evening and finally both fell asleep against the other on a couch. It wasn’t until the next morning that Althea woke up in her bed.

“Mmm…” The young princess rubbed the sleep from her eyes and looked out her window. It seemed that they were still cleaning up the decorations. “I wonder how long it lasted after I fell asleep…”

“Oh it was quite a long time.” Althea jumped and looked over her shoulder as her mother walked in with a tray of food. “It was well into the morning before things started to wind down. Did you have a good sleep?”

“Oh yes. It was such a beautiful ceremony. You and father did an amazing job on such short notice.”

“It comes with years of practice.” She gestured for her daughter to come and eat and once she sat down, she started to gently brush her daughter's hair. “Althea…”

“Hmm? Yes mother?”

“You know that I love you very much right? So does your father.”

“Of course! I love you both very much too!” Queen Hestia smiled a bit as her daughter smiled back at her before resuming her meal. Spring was here in the kingdom, but the thought of winter had her on edge. The vision she painted haunted her dreams and she often woke from the nightmares. She had to be prescribed medicine just to help with the terrors. The thoughts were even more worrying now that talks of war were becoming more common. The enemy could strike whenever it wanted, and war was the last thing she wanted for her family and people. “Mother?”

“Hmm? Yes, Althea?”

“Ever since the summit…you and father have been so on guard for the last two months. Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Oh no, my love. You just keep being you and having fun with your friends.” She hugged her daughter tightly and kissed the top of her head. “Being a queen can get stressful at times. I just want you to enjoy yourself, ok?”

“Yes mother.” Althea was getting worried as her parents had not talked about the creatures since the summit. She was confident that her parents had the situation handled, but she realized that a conversation with Duran was needed. It was obvious that strong feelings were there, but she was still betrothed to a prince. It would also be nice to hear him affirm those feelings though.

After speaking with her mother for a little while, the pair went their separate ways for the day. Althea wanted to speak with Duran and spend some time alone with him. Liam and Honora both had some time away for a few days, and they could really be alone. Althea smiled to herself as she roamed the halls of the palace in search of him. His rotation around should have crossed paths with her, but she still hadn’t seen him yet.

“Where could he be-” Althea gasped as she was tugged into a small room. Conjuring a ball of fire, she was ready to set her target ablaze.

“Woah woah! Althea it’s me!”

“Duran!?” Althea put her hand down as her eyes adjusted in the darkness of the room. Duran chuckled and she felt her heart pick up in frustration. She swatted at his chest angrily.

“Hey hey! I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to frighten you!”

“You can’t do that! I thought you were another kidnapper!” She huffed and crossed her arms to look away from him. “I almost set you on fire!”

“I know and I’m sorry about that…but at least your reflexes are better now.” She glared at him and he held his arms out to her, and despite her annoyance, she sank against him. She buried her face into his chest and he rubbed her hair and back affectionately. “I won’t do it again…forgive me?”

“Mmm…”

“I promise, Thea.”

“Huh?” She pulled away from him and looked at him curiously, not sure if she had heard him right. “What did you call me?”

“Oh…Thea? If you don’t like that I can-”

“No no! No one has ever called me that before, not even Evelyn.” She smiled at him, a small giggle escaping her lips. “I love it.”

“Yeah?” Althea blushed as his voice grew low and he stepped into her space once more. Her fingers tightened on her dress as he brushed a strand of her hair away. Tilting her face up, she only wished that she could see him better. To see the brilliant blue of his eyes as he gazed upon her own. If what she thought was happening was indeed happening…she longed to see herself reflected in his ocean eyes. Although she wanted to see where this was going, she wanted a more appropriate setting for such a thing.

“D-Duran…why have you pulled us into this room? Surely it…surely we could be alone somewhere else?” She fluttered her lashes at him and he chuckled as he stepped away from. She pouted at his movement away from her. Although she wanted the setting to be more romantic, it didn’t mean she didn’t want to be in his presence.

“It has been harder and harder to see you. I want to capture as much time with you as possible. You see…”

“Is something the matter?” She was not as naïve as many thought she was. The past few months everything seemed to be changing. Her parents brushed away her thoughts, but she knew something was wrong. More and more knights seemed to be training and looking through a window at night, she saw many knights patrolling. Times were changing and it didn’t look like it was more anything good. The thoughts of meeting her betrothed were even washed from her mind as she watched the castle transform before her eyes. “Something terrible is going to happen again…isn’t it?”

The look he gave her was all the confirmation that she needed. Terrible things just seemed to be befalling the kingdom over the last year. It just wouldn’t stop and she was starting to feel afraid. The tournament, Lord Derrick, the creatures in the forest, when would it end? Her shoulders shook and Duran held her close as she tried not to cry.

“Tell me…what is happening?”

“....” He released a deep breath as he rubbed her back. “Talks of war have spread amongst the knights. The king has not given an official word as of yet, but it seems very likely. Some of our troops have been training with the other allied nations in preparation. Your father has been recruiting so many new recruits. Please don’t worry Althea…”

“Oh can I not worry? You…you're talking about a potential war coming to our kingdom. So many lives are always lost during times of war. I…what if I lose you in all of this?”

“Hey…” He pulled back to hold her face in his hands. “You will never lose me. I will fight tooth and nail to be by your side. Nothing will keep us apart.”

“Do you promise?”

“I promise. On my life.” It was a bit irresponsible to hold such words to heart, but it was the only thing keeping her grounded at the moment. She had to hope that things would change for the better. Relaxing against his chest, Althea worried about the following months. They had not spoken about her fiancé at all. It was not like he was going to go away, just like their feelings for each other. Her heart felt ready to burst just thinking about it, so she didn’t. She pushed it to the back of her mind as Duran whispered sweet things into her ears. She would hold onto this peace and joy as long as possible. She would think about everything else later.

♛

Althea was surprised how fast the months seemed to flow by. So much had happened, but it also felt as if nothing did as well. Her parents said nothing about a war, but the number of soldiers had increased over the months. It was only a matter of time before something happened. Althea made it a point of the months to just…pretend it wasn’t happening. She would simply enjoy her time with her friends and family instead. Honora had finally fallen into her role of being a noble, and she was even warming up to wearing dresses! Althea often made visits to her family's new home and the girls enjoyed many nights of fun. Honora often bemoaned to Althea how she hated the attention that some of the nobles gave her. Their sons were eager to mingle and gain her favor. Honora thought the whole thing was embarrassing and often ran away from them. Liam thought the whole thing was quite hilarious.

Speaking of Liam, he had found himself in a bit of trouble with some ladies. Althea and Honora had warned him many times about bringing women into his bed. He didn’t learn his lessons as some of his ladies had found out about each other, and the whole thing became quite the scandal. He barely walked the streets of Melodia anymore, fearful of angry fathers and his ex-lovers. Althea did miss seeing him often though, her father had put together a special scouting and task force some months ago. She was surprised to see Liam volunteer for it. He had mentioned that he needed some extra pay, but she said she would talk to her parents. He brushed it away and thought it would be exciting. She missed him, but when he had free time, he would always come back to join her for tea or take a shift guarding her.

Marina took some time away to help out her parents and Althea missed her too. The triplets were nice but they were too nosy. They tried too hard to be her friend and frankly, they just made her feel uncomfortable. Marina was due to come back soon enough though. Althea sighed as she sat at her desk. Her birthday was in a few days and her stomach had not settled for the last week. Her…her fiancé was coming and the thought made her want to vomit. She put on a brave face, but her heart ached whenever her parents talked about him. Especially when Duran was in the room. She tried not to look at his expressions, but she couldn’t help it. He was very good at hiding his feelings around her parents, but she could read him quite well now.

The clenched jaw, the tight grip on his sword hilt, the slightly creased brow, and every so often his nostrils would flare and his eye would twitch. Her knight was ready to burst at any second and she could do nothing to placate him. It didn’t help that lately he had been distant towards her. She figured he was upset, but so was she. They needed to be there for each other and he was just being difficult. She hated to admit it, but she was curious about this fiancé of hers. She also wondered if he would accept not marrying her. It was a childish thought, but she could hope.

“Althea?”

“Oh yes mother?” Althea stood from her desk as her mother walked in with several maids, all of them holding various dresses. Althea forced her practiced smile onto her face as they laid them out. “Oh…I forgot that my dress fitting was today.”

“Althea…” Her mother sighed as she placed her hands on her hips. “You have to be more aware of things that are happening around you. I’ve told you several times about this.”

“I’m sorry mother,” Althea looked over the dresses with a furrowed brow. They were all stunning and beautiful dresses, but she was a bit put off by the color. “Why are they all white?”

“Well…it is also something like an engagement dinner.” Althea flinched hearing that from her mother. Why did it seem everything was moving too quickly? “It is customary to wear white. Now…which one would you like to wear and we can get it fitted.”

Althea spent the rest of the morning trying on various dresses and making preparations for her birthday. It was a rather boring morning and she would rather ride Stardust or visit Honora. Although, she could visit her father instead. He wasn’t as busy at the moment, so once her mother left, Althea went to see him. Knocking on the door of his study, she waited for his confirmation before she stepped in.

“Father?”

“Hmm? Oh rosebud…what can I do for you? Come sit with me.” Althea smiled as her father poured her some tea. Sitting beside him, she smiled as he gently kissed her head. “Have you spoken to your mother this morning?”

“Yes, but father, that was hours ago. It’s the middle of the afternoon now.” He looked at her surprised before he leaned back against his chair with a heavy sigh. Althea giggled at him as he rubbed his face. She gently tugged on his dark hair and he glanced at her with a raised eyebrow. “Your hair is starting to get long. What does mother think about this?”

“Your mother happens to love it. Do you not like it?”

“I think you look rather dashing.” He smiled cheekily before he stood up and held his hand out to her. “Hmm?”

“I just thought it would be nice to get out of this stuffy office. Care to take a walk with your father princess?”

“I would love to.” Althea smiled as she walked the halls with her father. It had been too long since they spent any time together. Her upcoming birthday and how busy the kingdom was lately attributing to that. She longed for the days when they would take their horses for rides again. It felt as if time wasn’t on their side for anything anymore. Times were changing in the kingdom and frankly? She hated every last second of it.

“So may I have this dance?” Althea blinked away from her thoughts as her father bowed his head at her. She had failed to notice they were now in the ballroom.

“Oh of course, but we have no music.”

“It is a good thing that I have a daughter with the voice of an angel, huh?” Althea blushed at his compliment but took his hand as he swept her across the room. She sang the song her mother used to sing for her at her bedtimes. It wasn’t long before her father joined in and she giggled at him. She leaned her head against his chest as they waltzed around. She missed dancing with her father and she never wanted to stop either. Although she would not have to be married until she was 21, it didn’t mean she wasn’t nervous about having these moments stripped away from her.

“Kyros I…oh…” Althea and her father stopped as her mother walked into the room. “Oh no…please continue.”

“Join us, mother.”

“Oh you both seemed to be having a moment. I would feel awful for intruding on it.”

“Nonsense Hestia.” He walked over to his wife and led her to the center of the ballroom. Althea smiled as they all joined hands and danced across the large room. The family laughed and danced for what felt like hours. Althea was glad to have these moments with her parents again and she intended to cherish them for as long as she was able. The fear of the future left her mind during these moments and she could finally just relax. Now, if only she could get Duran to stop avoiding her and they could have a real conversation again.

♛

It would seem she wouldn’t get the chance to talk with Duran after all. Althea gripped her hands together tightly as she stood in front of her mirror. Her birthday ball was finally here and they had not spoken to each other in over a week and it made her more than a little upset. Marina and the triplets had been working on her hair and makeup for hours now. She was glad for it though, because it meant stalling for as long as possible. Her parents could entertain her guests and maybe she could sneak out a window. Her flying had gotten better, surely she could hide away somewhere for a time. Her parents would be angry, but she could handle some high emotions for a bit.

“Althea…your hands are so sweaty…” Marina stepped in her line of visions and grasped her hands. “Oh…one of you start fanning her and another one of you get something to dry her hands. Althea, I know you are nervous, but I promise the night will go beautifully. Just mingle with your fiancé for a few hours and get to know him. You have all the time in the world before you’re of age to marry him.”

Althea just smiled weakly as Marina knelt down to fix her dress some more. The triplets were hovering around her like annoying bees and she so badly wanted to swat them away. She glanced at Marina to distract herself and once again found herself entranced by her beauty. Her hair was pulled into a beautiful bun with a few curled strands framing her face. Her gown was a beautiful shade of green and it made her dazzle. Althea couldn’t help but stare at her first crush as she fixed her dress. It was a nice distraction, but she did feel bad for looking at her in such a way. It felt like she was being unfaithful to Duran, even though he wasn’t even courting her.

It wouldn’t matter anyway, it seemed that time had ran out for the pair anyway.

“Oh wow…you look so beautiful.” Althea looked at the doorway and felt her spirits rise just a bit as Honora walked into the room. “You make me wish I never even got dressed for this.”

“Oh nonsense…you look stunning Honora!” Althea laughed as Honora blushed, but did a small twirl in her dress. Honora had a gorgeous blue and gold dress that sparkled in the candlelight. Her long hair was curled beautifully and pinned to the side with a blue rose. She also heard the distinct click of heels and she couldn’t help the surprised gasp that escaped her lips. “Are you wearing heels under your dress?”

“Oh…yes I am…” Honora blushed as she lifted her skirts to show off her sparkling heels. “I’ve been practicing for the last few months. I thought it would come in handy.”

“I hope you can dance in them than, because you own me some dances.” Honora groaned and Althea giggled as she did. It was at that moment that her parents peered into her room. The others quickly excused themselves and Althea watched as her parents took in her appearance. She fully faced them so they could really look at her and their reactions told her a lot.

Her mother held her hand against her heart as she smiled at her and quickly wiped away tears forming in the corner of her eyes. She quickly strolled into the room and grasped her hands. “Oh Althea…you look so beautiful! Absolutely stunning…you look like an angel. I can’t wait to see you dancing across the ballroom. You’re going to stun everyone into silence, my love.”

Althea held back her tears before she looked at her father still standing at the door. He had not fully moved into the room yet, and was merely just staring at her. His fist was so tightly clenched that Althea didn’t think his knuckles could get any whiter. “Father?”

He blinked rapidly at her, pulling himself from his stupor. He sighed deeply before he slowly walked into the room. He took her hand gently before he kissed it. “My rosebud…the most beautiful flower to ever grace this kingdom since her mother.” Her mother smirked at him as he continued on. “As your father, it brings me joy to see how splendidly you have grown. It also pains me to see you grow into such a fine young woman. Soon, you will have no need for your mother and I, and the thought does bring me great pain. I often worried that I didn’t do my best at times, but seeing you now…I know that we both did a splendid job.”

Althea really had to hold her tears back as her parents smiled warmly at her. Despite having to meet her fiancé, Althea felt a strong sense of joy. Her parents were proud of her, despite how she often felt about herself. She wanted to keep making them proud, but her heart was pulling her so far away from her duties. It made her wonder if her duty was more important than her heart? Could she really let this go on? Even if it meant hurting her parents and possibly her kingdom?

“Our little bird has grown and is finally going to spread her wings.” Althea smiled at her mother as she caressed her cheek. “Now…let’s finally get to seeing your guests.” Althea walked between her parents as they made their way to the ballroom. She could hear the many people conversing and enjoying themselves as they grew closer. Her heart thundered as she grew closer and closer to the large doors. She could only hope that Duran had chosen to stay home, she could not bear to see him tonight. His gaze would be enough to make her lose her composure and ruin the entire night. The royal family stopped before the doors as the royal crier began his address.

“Introducing…His and Her Royal Majesties, King Kyros and Queen Hestia of Melodia. Also presenting, Her Royal Highness Princess Althea of Melodia, for her 16th birthday ball!” As the doors opened, Althea was met with excited cheers and clapping and thousands of rose petals rained from the ceiling around her. Althea looked up in awe as the delicate petals brushed against her face. Her parents smiled at her before they quickly gained her attention again.

“Althea…your fiancé would like to greet you.” Althea sharpened up as her mother whispered to her. Already?! It was far too soon in the evening to meet him now! Althea’s hands trembled as she quickly folded her hands together to hide their shaking. She had not prepared for this at all and she felt ready to vomit. Swallowing her nerves back, she watched as the crowd parted and a young man in white suit approached her. Althea smiled as he held a bouquet of roses against his chest. He bowed before her parents before he looked at her.

“Princess Althea…it is so great to finally meet you,” he kissed her hand gently and she flushed deeply. “Your beauty is nothing short of extraordinary. I hope that you will enjoy our time together.”

“I-I’m sure that I will…Prince Ezra. Thank you for the flowers.” Althea felt incredibly exposed as everyone was watching their interaction. Her parents were also watching expectantly with prince Ezra’s family. She spotted Honora sipping a drink with Evelyn in the crowd and they were giving her encouraging smiles. She even spotted Liam, but he was flirting with someone in the corner. She didn’t see Duran and she was glad for it. She supposed that he really did take the night off, but he could have at least wished her a happy birthday.

“Shall we dance?”

“Oh! Yes of course…” Althea took his offered hand and he led them to the center of the ballroom. The pair began their slow dance and Althea took the time to admire his features. He was handsome and had beautiful green eyes and dark brown hair. He had a charming smile, but she was far from impressed. She was far more entranced by eyes as clear as the sky.

“You know…I had heard you liked to dance.” Althea looked at the prince as he spoke up. “I am not the best dancer in the world, but I can try for you. Perhaps you can show me some things?”

“Oh? It’s not too hard. I would be glad to show you some things.” He chuckled as she took notice of his sweet smile. He seemed to be quite nice and she was glad for that. “Will you…will you be visiting often?”

“Oh? Do you not want to see me as much?”

“No no! I just wanted to know. I could give you your dance lessons if I see you more often.”

“Well…I will be sure to visit. I mean…how could I not? To not see such a pretty face more would truly be a travesty.”

Althea couldn’t help but giggle at him. He was quite charming and as they danced he proved to be funny as well. It was not long before they were joined by others on the dancefloor. He continued to make her laugh and as they continued their waltz, her heart suddenly was in her throat. Duran had just entered the ballroom, his family had come with him. He looked so handsome in a dark blue suit and he was smiling at his younger sister. Althea had wanted to meet his sister and they talked about setting up a tea date. Althea felt sick as he glanced up and caught her smiling face with the prince.

The frown that crossed his handsome face made her feel even worse. He broke away from his family immediately and she was going to go after him, but her parents entered her line of sight. “You both look so perfect on the dancefloor!” Althea smiled weakly at her parents and the princes’ mother and father. They were very excited to meet her, but she was only thinking about Duran and wanting to comfort him. She was looking for a chance to slip away, but it seemed she would not get her chance.

“Ah…could you excuse me and the princess? I think a break is needed…she looks a bit pale.” Prince Ezra led her out to the garden and she sat down with a heavy sigh. It was a cool night and the fresh air did make her feel a bit better.

“Thank you…I really needed-”

“Yes yes I know. I am quite thoughtful.” He waved her thanks away as he stretched and rolled his neck. Althea blinked and tilted her head at his interruption. That…was a bit rude. “I wish you had wore something more in line with my attire.”

“Oh…I thought that-”

“Now now I’m not done talking. You really shouldn’t think about anything…women should be seen, not heard. Although, you really don’t talk much anyway. My parents sure did find me a suitable wife.” Althea felt her face burn up as she gripped her dress tightly. He was so rude! Duran…Duran would never say such things to her. He loved to listen to her talk and he was always so sweet.

“I-”

“It’s really a shame that we have to wait until you are of age. I think 16 is a perfect age to marry and rule over a kingdom.” He looked her over for a bit before shaking his head. “Although, I heard that you weren’t too bright and rather clumsy. At least you are attractive in the face, that is all I really care about. All I really need in our heirs soon…how many would be the optimal number…”

“Children aren’t-”

“You really must learn to keep silent. I was not asking you how many you want. I was merely speaking to myself. I suspect that five children would be enough…” Althea frowned as he cut her off again. He smirked as his eyes traveled up and down her body slowly. He stood from his seat and sat closer to her, before he touched her arm. She flinched at the contact, but he just tightened his grip on her. “You know…we could really strengthen our relationship much quicker. We are meant to be man and wife soon it will be beneficial to know you on a more personal level.”

“Please don’t touch me-” He placed a finger against her lips and moved closer into her space. Her body tensed up as her encounter with Lord Derrick raced through her mind. She just felt herself go numb and all of Honora’s teachings about self defense left her mind. She couldn’t even bring herself to conjure up a fire ball. It also didn’t help how badly this would look on her and the kingdom. This could start an incident that could lead to war. She didn’t want him to touch her though. She only wanted Duran to touch her in such a way. This was not fair! She hated this! She hated herself for not being strong enough to stop it. She hated that she didn’t speak up for herself and her feelings for Duran. Why? Why could she not be better?

“Prince Ezra…your parents are looking for you.”

Althea released the breath she was holding as Duran stood by the now open door of the ballroom. He didn’t even look at her, his emotionless glare set on the prince. Prince Ezra huffed and glared at Duran, who didn’t even look fazed at that. “Who are you? What could my parents possibly want?”

“They want you to mingle with the nobles of Melodia, to better establish relations for when you…marry the princess. I am just a simple knight of my kingdom, my prince.” Prince Ezra scoffed before he looked back at Althea with a smile.

“We will continue our conversation later. Try not to go anywhere.” The prince left without another word and that left the pair alone for the first time in days. Althea looked down at her hands, while Duran just looked at her. She still felt shaken up, but she couldn’t bring herself to speak to him. There was so much to say, but her voice was failing her. She had managed to catch her breath again, but she was still trembling.

“Princess…you need to take some deep breaths.” Althea gasped as she looked up at Duran. He wasn’t looking at her, but his presence was enough for her. Taking his advice, she took several deep breaths before she smiled up at him.

“Duran…thank you…”

“...”

Althea frowned as he didn’t respond to her at all. She knew they had not spoken for some time, but she figured he would be eager to finally talk to her again. Although, she guesses that seeing her with the prince was not a pleasant sight. The prince was vile, but that did not change anything about how he felt.

“Duran please…talk to me…”

“...”

“I know…I know that you are upset, but I-”

“Upset? You think I’m upset?” He finally looked down at her and the hurt in his eyes made her want to hide away. His fists tightened as he shook his head and started to pace. He glanced at the closed ballroom doors for a second before he finally spoke back up. ”I’m frustrated Althea! I’m so damn frustrated! All of this is pissing me off! You! Me! I’m pissed!”

Althea watched on in shock as Duran paced and yelled. He had never raised his voice at her, but she felt like she needed to hear this. She wanted to reach out and touch him, but he just kept pacing angrily in front of her. She waited with baited breath as he finally stopped to look at her. “I…I’m sorry.”

“You…I hate that I have to just stand around and take this! The way that prince looks at you is disgusting…and to see you smiling and laughing with him?! My heart can’t take this! I’m mad at myself for just…just not being good enough. Knowing that I can’t even entertain the thought of being with you…marrying you. I’m just a knight…even if everything between us were allowed…you would lose your status. I am only a knight, our life would not be as glamorous.”

“You think I want glamor and status?” Duran looked at her finally as his shoulders dropped. She had no idea he thought of himself so poorly…or her for that matter. “I know back when Honora and I had that fight I was…privileged and rude. Being amongst my people I saw how they live and what they do, and I…I don’t care about any of this.”

Althea stood and took his trembling hands, even was still angry, but he was hurt above all else. She stepped into his space and held his hands against her rapidly beating heart. He looked tired and weary, as she brushed the smalls bags under his eyes, he sighed deeply and leaned into her hand. With a gentle kiss to her palm, he closed his eyes as she stepped into his embrace. He held her tight as he buried his face in her hair. “I don’t want to lose you…”

“You never will, Duran.”

“I…will you marry him…for the kingdom?”

“No!” Althea leaned back and looked into his eyes, her eyes watering slightly. The thought of it made her sick. He was disgusting and nothing like what she ever dreamed of. She had a new dream, and he was standing right in front of her. “Nothing will keep us apart, nothing…”

“Althea…my princess…I’m sorry.”

“You have nothing to be sorry about. You will never have to question my feelings for you. If I have to fight with even my parents for you I will. You are the most important person in my life.”

Duran’s eyes widened before he pulled her back into his arms. His shoulders shook before he straightened up and brushed her hair behind her ear. “You…you are perfect. I know you said I have nothing to be sorry, but I still feel that I should. I should have never doubted you for a second…my jealously got in the way.”

“Duran…” He held her cheek as he brought his other hand up to kiss it. He said nothing as they stared into his each others eyes. Althea wondered what was on his mind as the world seemed to disappear around them.

“I love you.”

“!!!” Althea felt her breath leave her body as he finally said what she could only dream about. Tears sprang to her eyes and he quickly wiped them away. “I-I…I love you too Duran! So much!”

“Hehe…I love you more, my princess. From now to the end of my days. My love for you will never waver, never…”

He tilted her face up and her eyes widened realizing what was about to happen. Their moment was finally here. Despite dreading her birthday and her fiancé, the night was going to end perfectly nonetheless.

“Ahem…”

Althea and Duran both felt their blood run cold hearing a very familiar voice. Althea and Duran both looked to their left…as Queen Hestia stood by the rose bushes, arms crossed and narrowed eyes. The pair separated immediately and Duran reacted instantly. “Your Majesty, please I-”

“Come with me.” She turned without another word and they followed her quickly. Althea was trembling as they went to her mothers drawing room. They sat down as she paced around the room, mumbling to herself. Finally, with a heavy sigh, she sat down and crossed her legs. She said nothing as she looked them over. “Do you both realize what would have happened if anyone saw you?”

“My queen-”

“Silence,” she hissed with a dismissive wave and glare. “If someone saw you both…it would be the scandal of all scandals. Your marriage would fall apart and you’d break up an important alliance! The council would think you were pregnant! You would lose so much Althea! You realize what people would say about you?! Not even your father and I can protect you from such words. You are the princess! Act like it!”

Althea looked down at her hands as tears streamed down her face. She was right though, it would cause so much trouble for everyone. She was reckless, but she would not be sorry for being in love. The people could say what they want, she was happy and her feelings were reciprocated by the man she loved.

“Duran, your family would lose everything that your father did for you all. His honor would be gone, his riches, status, everything…gone! All because the two of you are sneaking around and being reckless! You are a knight! She is the princess! I will not allow my only daughter to face ridicule from the people of this kingdom! You both are…just…just plain foolish!” She took a deep breath before pulling out her fan and cooling herself down. The silence between them lasted for some time, before Duran spoke up.

“My queen, I can’t apologize for the way I feel about Althea. I will admit that we should have been more careful, or maybe we shouldn’t have been doing this at all. I…well I don’t give a damn if anyone approves of this. I would do it all again in a heartbeat, my queen.”

“D-Duran!” Althea gasped as she looked at her love. He held her hand as he stared her mother down, his eyes blazing with confidence. Her mother glared right back at him, before she sighed again and snapped her fan shut.

“I know…I know that both of you won’t. I know that you both will continue to love each other despite it all. I have known about your feelings for each other for months.”

“Huh?” Althea blinked as her mother smiled at them. “How did you know?”

“My daughter…you aren’t very subtle. Duran is better at hiding his feelings.”

“My queen…why have you never done anything?”

“It is because I support the both of you, and I want my daughter to be happy. She deserves to be with someone who will love her unconditionally.” She smiles at the surprised pair. “I’ve been trying to figure out what to do to end the engagement peacefully. Your father does not know about this, but he will have to be told about this soon enough.”

“...” Althea was at a lost for words. She could not believe how the night turned out. It was beyond anything she could have thought of. Her mother approved of her relationship with Duran! Everything would be alright! If what her mother was doing worked…that would mean that they could love each other without any worries.

“My queen…thank you!” Duran stood and knelt in front of the queen. “I promise to always love and protect her! Thank you for allowing us the chance to be together.”

“Y-Yes! Thank you mother!” Her mother smiled before she stood up and stepped in front of the two teenagers.

“Now…Althea…I need you to still talk to prince Ezra. You must play this part only for the rest of the night. I need you both to be more careful…and I mean it. This is very very important. Now…Althea return to the party. Duran…I have to speak to you alone.”

The pair looked confused but did not question her. With a small kiss to her hand, Duran watched Althea head back to the party. His heart felt ready to jump from his chest, the happiness was overflowing from him. Looking back at the queen, his smile sank, her face serious, but riddled in concern.

“We have to discuss her future going forward.”

♛

Althea was on cloud nine as she danced with the various nobles, her godparents, friends, even her insufferable fiancé. Her father was tired from her twirling him around! Althea even got a chance to dance with Duran and she dragged Honora and Liam to join them. She was excited to talk with Honora and Liam about what had happened. This was the best birthday that she had ever had, and even better ones were sure to follow. Eventually, she would be able to love Duran freely and perhaps get married someday! The prospect filled her stomach with butterflies and she wanted to dance until the sun rose the next day.

Life could not be any better.

Life was perfect and she wanted to shout it from the rooftops. Shout about her newfound happiness and love. She wanted to play her piano and sing, and for the knights, no sound was sweeter than the voice of their princess. So, to hear her cry was like knives driving deep into their hearts. For it did nothing but tear them apart inside, and crush their spirits.

For it was not only but a week after her birthday, that war was announced throughout the kingdom of roses.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Next: https://www.tumblr.com/goddessofeternity/702289436194619392/love-amidst-the-darkness

Previous: https://goddessofeternity.tumblr.com/post/675978516847804416/love-amidst-the-darkness

Thanks for reading!

Comments and reblogs are appreciated! Likes are welcomed!