Love Between Kingdoms (Viola + nladisha)

[Viola]

There were two great Kingdoms near the brink of war for many years. Citizens of the Kingdoms lived their life in fear waiting for a great war to happen. The eastern Kingdom, called Elendor , was known for its culture and wealth while the western Kingdom, also known as Axelia, was known for their power. Elendor has been craving for power, while Axelia has been craving for wealth. There were many attempts for treaties but neither Kingdom trusted one another. The Kingdoms decided that they would trust one another if a royal marriage were to converse, and then the Kingdoms would happily trade to each other.

In the eastern Kingdom, Elendor lived a young princess named Serenade. Serenade was only 22 but was widely respected across Elendor. She was fully of energy, kind, and beautiful. But the people started to wonder were there princess was. After Serenade heard about the agreement of marriage she threw a rampage to the point not even the King nor Queen could settle her down. The young maiden locked herself in her room for days, refusing to see anyone.

Serenade laid on her large bed in deep thought when a sudden knock was on her door. Her sliver eyes traveled to the door while calling out, “Who is it?” A guard of the castle replied, “Princess Serenade the King wishes to see you”. Letting out a sigh of anger, she slips off her head and goes towards the door. Thinking about opening it she calls out. “Tell my father ‘too bad’!” her voice was sharp with frustration. The guard replied, “Well King Albert also told me if you didn’t come out to break down your door. Would you want that to happen?” Serenade was appalled to hear a guard talk back to her in such a manner but her father was the king. “Alright alright!” Serenade smoothed out her long dark brown hair and headed out the door.

The young woman made her way down a few long hallways that seemed to stretch forever. Being in a Kingdom with such abundant wealth, the castle was extremely well decorated. There was many painting and candles in the castle it seemed to be breathing with life.

Reaching her father’s study she took a deep breath then walked in. The king was sitting on a large velvet chair with a large book in hand. The King smiled to his stunning daughter and spoke, “Sit down my child”. Serenade sat down on not such a elegant seat across for him. The King went right to business, “Child, will you think about Axelia’s offer again? If you are to marry their prince both of our Kingdom’s will be balanced and the people can stop living in fear of war.” Serenade perked up in her seat and got defensive, “Father I refuse to marry some man from Axelia! Did you forget father? Axelia is our enemy. I will not marry roryal blood of Axelia. I do not even know this man!” The king shifted in his chair trying to stay calm as his selfish daughter rambled, “This is not a request Serenade now this is an order. The prince should be arriving in an hour. So you need to put on your best dress and impress the leaders of Axelia”. Serenade was ready to protest but her father gave her a glare of anger. “Fine father, but I am not marrying him. I will meet him since he is on his way. But that is it.”

Serenade walked to her room in thought. To marry without love was not how she wanted her future, even if it starts a war. Arriving to her room, she put on a pure light blue and white dress that went down to her ankles. The dress had sleeves that covered her shoulders and a lace trimming at the bottom of the dress. While putting on her heels the mirror caught her attention. Serenade looked at herself for a long time in the mirror, she couldn’t help but to whisper to herself. “I will show that man what he cannot have.” Knowing it took some time to put on her dress she knew the man would be coming at any time. Serenade made her way to the throne room to wait were her father was already placed.

 

[nladisha]

Prince Geoffry of Axelia knew what he had to do. Both his father and his older sister were counting on him to make this marriage work out. Geoffry had never met Princess Serenade of Elendor, but he had heard of her beauty. That at least made the upcoming marriage easier to stomach. Otherwise, he might just turn around and head straight back to Axelia. Then again, he would do a great disservice to his king, future queen, and the people of his realm. It would come at a time where Axelia was facing a threat far greater than thier petty feud with Elendor.

Three hundred years ago, ships from a distant continent called Tierria arrived in Axelia bearing men and women possessing wealth and power far beyond anything Axelia and Elendor had combined. For a hundred years, Axelia traded with Tierria for riches and finished products Axelia couldn't produce itself. Axelia's power grew. Then, 200 years ago, the continent-wide kingdom ruling all Tierria, the Sunlit Realm, broke up in a bloody civil war. From the ashes, rose two great powers: the former province of Marinia, where the Tierrian ships set sail from, and the ancient core of the Sunlit Realm, Sierria. The two powers fought a bitter rivalry, much like Axelia and Elendor. To compensate for the disruption of interstate trade brought about by the Sunlit Realm's division into feuding kingdoms, Marinia and Sierria demanded resources from Axelia on a scale it could not maintain. When Axelia couldn't deliver, Sierria and Marinia began showing an interest in Elendor. Both nations were powerful, and possessed weapons and technology that, if they fell into the hands of the power-hungry Elendorans, would upset the centuries old balance of power. The only option would be to sign a new treaty with Marinia or Sierria in exchange for weapons to keep thier position of power. Geoffry had seen those barbaric things, and had heard tales of what they could do in combat. He would never wish that sort of destruction on anyone, not even an Elendoran. He personally prefered the grace and class of a sword to the speed and deadly efficiency of a rifle. Now, more than ever, Axelia needed peace with Elendor, if for nothing else than to avoid the slaughter of thousands of Axelians.

"Are you nervous?" asked his sister, patting his shoulder.

"A little," admitted Geoffry. "It's hard to stomach the thought peace hinges on something as small as marriage."

"Afraid she won't like you?"

"I've never met her, and you know better than I the lies the Elendorans say about our people. What if she believes them?"

"I don't see what's not to like," laughed his sister. She reached up and ruffled her little brother's dark, chestnut colored hair. "You're rather handsome." That was true. Geoffry was tall and well developed. He had evenly tanned skin, and a body toned by swordplay and archery. Still, he had youthful, boyish look to him, making him appear slightly younger than his 23 years. There were many girls in Axelia who would have killed to be his bride. His face flushed the way it did when he was a child.

"What are you trying to do, make me look like a slob with unkempt hair?"

"If you two are finished being children again, I do believe it is time to meet with Elendor and his daughter," thier father interupted. Geoffry's cheeks flushed even more, especially when his mother and brother-in-law chuckled at his embarassment. For the gods' sakes, he was to be married! He needed to prepare himself to meet his bride, and he didn't want to give the impression of being an immature fool. He paused to regain his composure, grateful for the screen of the Axelian honor guards. When he was ready, he nodded at his father, who gave the guard captain the signal to continue on to the Elendoran throne room.

 

[Viola]

Princess Serenade suddenly heard doors opening and nearly jumped. Her hands were down and together fiddling with her fingers, palms sweaty. Even though she was set in her ways, a nervous chill ran down her spine. Serenade was starting to get lost in thought how she should handle everything but before she could she saw the prince standing in front of her at her father. Serenade’s father raised himself with his arms out, “Welcome!” he greeted in a hearty manner.

Serenade’s eyes looked to the man she was supposed to marry these eyes locked for a moment and Serenade quickly broke the gaze. Unable to lie to herself, she could admit he was good looking. Her heart nearly sank from seeing him, if only he was a man for Elendor... she thought to herself. Serenade gave the prince a curtsy in respect, since her father would expect it.

The princess’s voice was soft as she greeted the prince, “Nice to finally meet you Prince Geoffry”. The King of Elendor smiled to the two young adults, he spoke, “Serenade why don’t you take your guest to the garden? I need to discuss a few proposals with Axelia while they are here.”

“Yes Father”, the obedient daughter replied. Her silver eyes travel to the Prince. “Please follow me”, the young Princess walked away and down the long hallways to the garden. Two guards were near the door of the garden and opened it immediately for her. The garden was full of bright colorful flowers that surrounded a large fountain with an angel on top of it. Serenade watched her step crossing the stone path leading to the fountain, from having tripped many times. The garden being her favorite place on the castle's ground, the bright colors and the constant sound of flowing water was relaxing.

Reaching the stone bench she tucked in her dress and sat down. Waiting for him to sit next to her before speaking. Since her father wasn’t there to shoot her looks of disapproval she spoke freely. “Please listen to me closely. I have no intent on marrying you. Even if I have to run away on my wedding day I will. I refused to be forced into a marriage with such haste! Especially since you are from Axelia; the only thing your Kingdom wants is our riches.” The girl crossed her arms in anger, “Doesn’t it bother you any? Marrying someone because you are forced to?” Serenade’s pride seemed to get the best of her, “I am a Princess not a peasant!”

 

[nladisha]

Everything happened so fast. One moment, Geoffry was being escorted into the Elendoran throne room beside his father. Then he was courtseying to the one man who, until recently, he'd been told was the symbol of everything there was to hate about Elendor. Then he saw the princess, and she was all the beauty she was reported to be. She beckoned him to follow her into a lush palacial garden, only to turn on him over the marriage and his nationality. All the while, he found himself unable to speak. He'd never had the opportunity. He was stunned.

"Well, I suppose this is a bad time to say, 'It's a pleasure to meet you'," he finally said when the princess finished her tirade. "Look, this isn't about your riches: it's about what's best for both our peoples. You are aware of the New Lands, across the ocean, right? They're a far bigger problem now than ever, and an equal threat to our people. Together, we can outwit them, maybe even manipulate them. Divided, we're at best thier puppets." He paused, and found himself resisting the urge to place his hand on the princess' shoulder, the way he did to his sisters. "This marriage will hold our kingdoms together in peace far better than any treaty. Our futures depend on us."

 

[Viola]

Serenade felt a warm hand on her shoulder making her shift to the side in disapproval. “Marriage isn’t about making deals, it is about love. Why is a marriage the only way for peace?” A deep sigh slipped from her lips knowing she was being rude, but she was extremely upset. “Our Kingdoms are fine the way they are, a marriage shouldn’t make a difference!” Serenade rose to her feet and turned away from him trying to hide her tears.

The woman paced around a bit in thought, “There has to be another way. I will not marry someone from another Kingdom especially if there is no love”. Her heart felt heavy with grief, her voice shaking from crying, “It isn’t fair…” Serenade’s eyes fell to the ground, “Even father knows I disagree yet he continues with his rambling about how it would be better for everyone… not me of course. I feel as if I am just an object. A tool…” She raised her hand to her face and wiped the tears from her eyes. Turning back around to have him, “I just can’t believe how alright you are with this agreement! It completely disgusts me.”

 

[nladisha]

Geoffry listened to Serenade mutter to herself as she stood up and paced about. She was working herself into a frenzy. He wanted to get up and take her into his arms and comfort her, the way he and his sister used to do to one another when either of them got upset. But he resisted. In her current state, Serenade would probably knee him in the crotch if he so much as poked her.

"Look," he said. "I'm a little uncomfortable about this too. I hardly know you. All my life I've been trained to see your ancestors and your countrymen as the enemy. But I want what's best for my people. I have a duty to my king and my future queen. Besides, it's not like we're getting married tonight - I think - but we'll have time to get to know each other. I'm sure we can learn to like each other."

Geoffry already found himself enamored by Serenade's beauty. He could live with her as a wife, he thought. Now he wanted to get to know the real her.

 

[Viola]

The idea of her father’s scolding sent a chill through her body. “Fine…” she sighed, “I don’t know exactly how long we have until the wedding. I would say a week or so, I haven’t been paying much attention to my Father since I basically have my mind made up”. It couldn’t hurt to get to know a handsome prince, plus he was easy on the eyes.

“Well since you are my guest why don’t I give you a small tour of Elendor? Well at least what harbors around the castle.” Serenade started to walk towards the exit of the garden. “It is quite beautiful here. Follow me.” She led him out of the castle’s long maze reaching outside. A few random citizens looked to the princess with wide eyes. Serenade was questioned multiple times about where she had been for the week. The Princess just smiled and kindly answered every time that she wasn’t allowed to tell. More like she wasn’t going to admit she has been crying in her room for days.

Serenade was walking a tad bit faster than the Prince, not knowing it was making her look alone. A while walking past a large group of people that she blended into, a poor blacksmith hoped the crowd would cover his action, as he bypassed Serenade nearly forcing her behind a stone building. The blacksmith’s motive was one likely trying to get ransom money. The blacksmith’s in Elendor were known to be extremely poor from the lack of metals, which Axelia would supply.

Serenade tried to scream but the man was covering her mouth too tightly. Yet she was able to lock eyes with Geoffry before she goes unseen behind a building. The princess jerked around and return only got slammed into that wall, knocking her down to the ground. The brave but clumsy Princess's instincts kicked. After making it back to feet and tried to charge after the man while enraged. He moved out the way just in time, unable to stop running, she came crashing down on her face into the rubble. At this point Serenade screams on top of her lungs, "I will have your head!"

 

[nladisha]

At least the princess gave Geoffry the luxury of a tour of her capital. It was far more graceful and luxurious than Axelia's capital of stone buildings, fortresses, and the foreign compounds of the Sierrians, Marinians, and lesser nations of Tierria who scrambled to stake thier claims. Being a coastal village, Geoffry couldn't help but wonder why, in all thier power and might, the Sunlit Realm and its successor states hadn't made contact with Elendor long ago. Yet what truly struck him was Serenade's reception by her countrymen. They were genuinely pleased to see her out and about. They truly did love her. She was just the fair princess Geoffry had been told to expect. That was why it was all the more shocking when Geoffry suddenly saw, through the crowd, Serenade seem to collide with someone and veer off into an alley. No one else noticed it, but Geoffry plainly saw the look of shock in Serenade's face and what he could swear was a hand - not her own - pulled across her mouth. The words of his sister's husband echoed in his ears, Whatever you do, don't go out into the city alone. There might still be some extremists who'll want to kill an Axelian. For all Geoffry knew, that had been one of Elendor's assasins who grabbed Serenade, and the one charged with executing Geoffry was posing to make a strike.

Yet something was terribly wrong. The street was too crowded. An assassin risked missing Geoffry and striking an innocent civilian. Plus, it would have been much easier at the rate Serenade was walking, for an assassin to seize Geoffry into an alley and knife him, or kill him on the spot for the love of king and country. No, they were after Serenade! Either extremists from Axelia were at work sabatoging the peace deal in an attempt to reignite the centuries old rivalry, or this was the work of Marinian and/or Sierrian agents who realized what Axelia was trying to do by allying with its rich neighbor. Geoffry wished his guards were here. Quickly, he ran in the direction he thought he saw Serenade being dragged off to.

"The princess!" he shouted. "Where's the princess?" He hoped someone would have seen what happened, or at the very least raise an alarm in time for the kidnapper(s) to be caught.

 

[Viola]

Serenade lifted her body up from the ruble, getting a good look at her attacker. Her dress was dirty and a bit torn. Serenade looked and seemed very collected but yet she had a fierce heart. There was no way she was going down to such scum. With only a moment to think she looked at her options. Screaming won’t help… it is too loud, she thought. But before she could finish thinking, her fearful eyes spot a knife.

Knowing that this wasn’t just a game anymore, she decides to make a run for it. The man chased after the Princess with the knife eyeing her like a solid piece of gold. The white heels she was wearing suddenly snapped against the ground. With a yelp the Princess once again fell. Seeing the man quickly gaining up to her. She kicked off her broken shoe and threw it towards the man. The shoe missed the man but he ended up stepping on the shoe. He lost his balance and fell onto the knife he was holding.

Serenade looked in shock at her luck, her eyes travel to the man lying on his stomach as a puddle of blood starts to form. Serenade screamed out and cried from seeing a dead body in front of him. A few guards could hear the princess’s blood curdling scream.

The guards were there within moments to help the Princess to her feet but held her like a prisoner. But they had a bone to pick with the Princess. They knew about her trying to avoid marriage even though it would benefit many. A guard that was holding Serenade spoke of their scheme, “All we have to do is tell the king you went mad with anger. That is believable with your attitude, and the King won’t let his people know he gave a free pass to his daughter.” The guards laugh.

All because of a marriage? Serenade started to scream and kick against the men, but they only laughed knowing it made her look even more crazy. They carried her through the main streets to make a scene and they past Geoffry, while Serenade was screaming. “Unhand me you stupid pigs! Let me go! I didn’t kill anyone!” her people looked at their Princess in disappointment. Frist she went unseen for days and accused of murder. They were headed to the throne room where her father would be waiting.

 

[nladisha]

The princess' screams attracted Geoffry's attention. He rushed in its direction. A small party of guards beat him to it. The ducked into another blind alley - hidden by the ornate facades of the buildings and the general clutter of the streets, and emerged with one livid princess.

"What in the world?" he demanded. Though he was just a prince of a rival kingdom, he couldn't help himself. He stepped in front of the guards and blocked thier path. "What are you doing? That's your princess you have there! Are you blind? Why are carrying her around like a sack of potatoes? Release her! Now!" Geoffry's hand instinctively shot for the dagger he kept under his coat. Not that he'd stand much of a chance against a party of guards, but he wasn't about to let them push him aside. If this was some sort coup by an extremist group with connections to the palace guard, Geoffry hoped he could stop it before it undermined all the diplomatic efforts of the past several months.

 

[Viola]

The guards stopped with Serenade and looked at Geoffry with a laugh. Serenade wiggled about and yelled out, “They are framing me for murder! When I’m the one who got attacked! Just look at my dress! He fell on his own blade!” the guard that was holding her let out a laugh, “Yeah right. Nice story Princess”. Serenade kicks and punches at the guard but it was not enough to even make him flinch. “Traders!” she screams. Her eyes spot Geoffry’s dagger, then she starts to yell at him, “What are you doing?! Trying to get yourself killed! Ugh!”

Serenade had enough and knew she had to play dirty. She needed a weak spot; she looked at the guard’s arms that was holding her down. She spots some exposed skin from where the guard’s glove stopped. Leaning down, she bit down on the guard until he released her from pain and shock.

Knowing they had a moment Serenade grabbed Geoffry’s arm firmly and ran him through the crowds of people, escaping in the chaos. She ran with him until they were near a small pond away from the crowds where she stopped. Serenade was gasping for air, her feet were bleeding from being barefoot, and she looked like a mess. She sat on the ground holding her knees to her chest crying.

She started to explain, “Some man grabbed me. He had a knife… and he tripped… on my shoe and fell on his knife. A-And he is dead…” Serenade was crying, she seemed less like a Princess and more like a human being. “Please believe me, the guards are mad at me. They know about the treaty, and how I don’t want to wed. So they decide to get back at me, by saying I’m mad. Father is going to be outraged…” Serenade laid her body in the grass taking a deep breath trying to calm herself down.

 

[nladisha]

((do you mind if I occasionally take control of NPCs you create, just for extra plot and story development?))

Once again, Geoffry was taken for a whirl when Serenade sank her teeth into her captor's arm and fled, dragging him along with her. When they came to rest, he couldn't help himself, and reached out to pat her back in an attempt to calm her down.

"It's okay," he said. "I believe you. I figured as much. I saw a hand across your mouth, and knew it was someone trying to carry you off. I tried to find you, but these streets are just too tangled and confusing to know which alley he took you down." He was still a bit confused at the part the guards had to play in the matter, but it sounded to him like petty mischief. He hoped the king of Elendor would be wise enough to see that. The knife wielding kidnapper though - that was a different matter.

"As for that kidnapper, did you get a good look at him? Did he look foreign? Did he say anything to you?" As he spoke, Geoffry tried to help Serenade sit up. Now that Serenade was safe and relatively unscathed (with the exception of the soles of her feet) he could turn his attention to the possibility someone else didn't want this marriage either.

 

[Viola]

(( Feel free too :] ))

Serenade lifted her head, “Maybe you can be my witness. But people would assume we are working together or something. I can’t believe I am getting framed…” When Geoffry asked her want the man looked like she looked to the sky thinking. “He looked poor. Dirty… he was wearing simple off white cloth shirt, and dark colored trousers. He didn’t say a word to me. He just was planning on taking me or killing me.”

She wondered how she could explain such a mess to her father. It was bad enough she left the castle’s grounds without asking. “I shouldn’t have even left the castle. I just thought we would be gone for a few… I always get myself in trouble. It is no fun being a sheltered Princess sometime. I also haven’t been outside for about a week. The citizens are a bit upset with me. Could that of been a reason for being attacked?” she questioned.

Serenade lifted her body from the grass. She could see her blood on the grass were her feet were placed. There was no hiding what had happened. Serenade was a mess, and the guards were about to report her crime she didn’t commit. “We should head back before my father has too much time to think...” The Princess starts to limp across the grass, she was completely wiped out. Even though Serenade has always been spoiled she had a strong spirit. She never went down without a fight and she always pushed herself. She would have been a fine warrior if she wasn’t a Princess.

 

[nladisha]

Geoffry breathed a sigh of relief. At least the attempted kidnapper was probably an Elendoran national, not a Marinian or a Sierrian. Still, he could have been under thier payroll. Geoffry would have to keep a close eye out for himself and Serenade.

"It could be lots of reasons," he said. "But I'd imagine your people would have more respect for thier Royal Family. He was probably a brigand or something." Geoffry noticed Serenade trying to limp along the grass. With her feet all cut up and bleeding, she was in condition to be walking. "Here, let me." Without further warning, Geoffry scooped the princess up in his arms.

 

[Viola]

Serenade blushed when he picked her up. She really was too tired to be stubborn like she normally would. She rests her head near his chest, and couldn’t help but to smile from his kindness. “Um… Thank you… that would have been a painful walk”. The closer they got the castle the more fear she felt. Serenade whines, “I’m gonna be in so much trouble… how did a day like this get so bad?” she mumbled to herself.

When they arrived at the gates the guards let them in without a second look. Shortly after walking in she saw her father. He looked extremely angry, “Serenade! I have taught you better than this! I now have guards saying you committed murder and you are in complete rags.” The king’s eyes caught the blood from her feet, “…and you are bleeding. Why must you be so immature? Acting out this bad to avoid a marriage? You are quickly becoming a shame to the royal family! What do you have to say for yourself?” he waited there for an answer.

Taken aback from her father’s words, “I-I am sorry, I figured I was old enough to leave the castle when I wish, without a guard breathing down my neck. I didn’t try to cause chaos I was only giving a tour.” Noticing she was still in Geoffry’s arms, the restless girl hops out of his arms. Serenade could feel the cool marble on her sore feet. It stung she shifted a bit and looked down seeing she was getting blood in the castle. I can’t do anything right… “Father,” she continued, “I was kidnapped and I fought to get away, and the man ended up dying in the process. We have traders in our kingdom father. A group of guards I was able to escape from wanted me put away for good.” Serenade looked at the guards in the castle but she couldn’t recognize what guards were after her. It made her feel uncomfortable in her own castle. “Father please give me some time I will rethink about this marriage from another angle.”

 

[nladisha]

Geoffry held his tongue as the king berated his daughter. His own father would have shown more tact and respect than to scold him or his sisters in front of guests. Yet it was not his place to criticize how his soon-to-be father-in-law treated his daughter. Yet he couldn't keep silent for long.

"Sir, she was snatched," he said. "I saw someone carrying her off. Were it not for my unfamiliarity of this city, I would have reacted faster. If she did kill someone, it was most certainly her abductor, and therefore she did have just cause. And it is quite possible you may have traitors in your realm. You are aware of the new lands across the ocean, and the two great powers who dominate them. I wouldn't put it past them try and sabotage this marriage and the peace between our two countries."

 

[Viola]

Serenade’s father just had enough of her disobedience she could no longer contain his anger towards his daughter. “Serenade, get to your room and clean up. We will talk about this extensively later.” The king then shifted his eyes to Geoffry, “A traitor in my Kingdom? Ha! I would never allow such a thing,” the arrogant King reassured. Then the Queen, who was a mirror splitting image of Serenade, came between the two. She was gentle and calm.

“Please you two,” her soft voice echoed in the castle. “I believe Serenade’s actions are slightly my fault. I have always told her since a child the beauty of love. I also told her that she would only marry someone she truly loved. I have always been a mother first then a Queen, yet everything changed. I never knew our daughter was going to have an arranged marriage. I agree it would be a royal duty for Serenade to get married.” The Queen stepped up to her daughter, “If you don’t love him now you will learn to love.”

Serenade felt like she was going to get sick. Between her father’s yelling, her mother rambling about love, and already having a rough day she felt she was going to scream. “I just need to go to my room… I need time to clear my mind. Please excuse me”. Before leaving Serenade lowered her heard to Geoffry and apologized, “Sorry for all the chaos I caused”. She then walked quickly away towards a hallway to her room.

The Queen sighed at Serenade tracking her blood in the castle. She looked back to Geoffry, “If you would like you are still one of our guests, we have rooms prepare. You should really give my daughter another try. She is troublesome at times though” the Queen wish she could explain Serenade’s actions but she couldn’t. "If you would I. I could tell her in the morning you wish to see her", she spoke in a pushy tone. She knew that he would be a perfect suitor for her daughter even if Serenade didn't see it yet.

 

[nladisha]

It was no wonder a treaty of words was not sufficient enough to keep the peace. The King of Elendor was arrogant and haughty - hardly the type of man who would respect an agreement if he felt capable of leveraging a new one. He also didn't take the threats of the New Lands seriously. They were very clever, and if they themselves weren't behind any plot to ruin the kingdom, they probably funded those who were.

Geoffry nodded to Serenade as she courtsied, then watched her limp off down the hall. He found himself smitten by her. She was quite pretty, and was at once urbane and cultured, and spirited and bold. At least she wasn't a little spoiled brat or a strapping Amazon. When he carried her into the palace, he noted how extraordinarly light and soft she felt. He was used to his younger sisters' weight when they jumped on his shoulders, or when his older sister jumped on his back. The queen startled him. For a moment, he thought she looked like an older Serenade, or possibly an older sister. He nodded graciously.

"Yes, that would be very nice," he said. "A room would be nice. And I would like another chance to see Serenade again." He smiled weakly, a bit embarassed in case the queen had caught him staring after Serenade like a dumbstruck fool.

 

[Viola]

Queen Raina led Geoffry down the large hallway to what seemed to be the last room on the left. The Queen opened the door for him to explode a royal guest room. It had a large bed with silk red sheets, an overly large dresser, a desk, and a large mirror. “This is one of our best rooms, since the conflicts started to get heated up we haven’t had many guest. The servants cleaned it as best they could but please excuse any dust. “Queen Raina looked like she had something else on her mind, more than just the room Geoffry was going to stay in. “I wanted to tell you, now that my anger-some husband isn’t around.” She looked around a bit, how Serenade would before she would do something bad. Seeing it was clear she looked back to him, “Please convince our daughter for us. No matter what we say or command she just will not listen to us. Sometimes I think she is just like to see us mad. We weren’t very fair to her when she was a child…” Queen Raina quickly stopped her mouth before she got too person. “Just for the sake of our kingdoms… Serenade is too bull headed, she is blind. Maybe later on you should take her to Axelia. She never has been there; maybe if she sees the status of your kingdom… it might change her mind”. Of course Serenade was blind; Elendor was rich, and also very lucky they haven’t gotten attacked. “She thinks just because of Kingdom has money we can protect ourselves…” The Queen shook her head. “Anyways, I should let you rest. I know you had a busy day, please get your rest. Goodnight”.
----
When Serenade arrived to her room, she let out a sigh of relief. Her eyes gazed across the mirror, my best dress is ruined! Stupid low life… Now with a sigh of anger she peeled off her dress. Going to the bathroom connected to her room she did he best to wash up some scrapes and dirt on her body. Changing into her nightgown she jumps in her bed. She thinks to herself about the day and how she almost got kidnapped to Geoffry carrying her home. A smile appeared on her soft lips when she thought about how Geoffry tried to stick up for her. She wondered if he went back home. Serenade knew she wasn’t good at first impressions. Her eyes finally close as her body submits to sleep through the night.

 

[nladisha]

Geoffry graciously thanked the queen for letting him use the guest room, then he began preparing for bed. As he did so, he mulled over her words. Apperantly, the only way for this marriage to work out was for Serenade to fall in love with him - that had to be what the queen meant when she said "convince". The notion made Geoffry's heart race. He'd never really thought of marriages built on love. His mother had married his father so her family secure a place in court. His older sister married her husband because he was an up-and-coming military comander who was well respected and revered by his men and his superiors alike, and would therefore make a strong king-consort. His parents had been investigating the possibility of marrying his younger sister off to either the brother of the Crown Princess of Marinia, or the Crown Prince of Sierria himself; depending on which nation allied with Elendor first. He himself was under the impression he would marry the daughter of a wealthy noble looking to forge ties with the crown. That was the way of things.

As for taking Serenade to Axelia, that was a thought. Axelia hadn't always been well off. At one time, they'd even been poor. His ancestors thought the Sunlit Realm would make them rich, and for a time it did. Then the Realm collapsed. It's successors claimed they were only continuing thier ancestors good will. But alas, the former countries of the Sunlit Realm meant only to rob Axelia blind. Sierria was the worst, as they were lead by the same dynasty who ruled the Sunlit Realm and assured Axelia they meant only to share thier peace and prosperity. It was all a pack of lies. What would Serenade find in Axelia? A nation of slaves who lived in fear thier masters from beyond the sea would come for them with thier terrible weapons of war. They needed this marriage and the alliance it came with; if for anything than to turn thier full attention on defending themselves from the threat of the New Lands.

Yes, a visit to Axelia would be a good move. But as for love... That was something Geoffry had to work on. His kingdom depended on it.

 

[Viola]

As morning came too, Serenade slowly started to wake. Yet she did not see a bright sun like she normally did. It was cloudy and looked like it may rain. After stirring in her bed for a while, a sudden knock on her door nearly made her jump. The restless girl growled to herself as she forced her body from her warm comfy bed. Opening the door she sees her Mother, fully awake and dressed. Serenade looked to her mother and said, “Good morning”. Knowing it was kind of odd her mother was just standing there she waited for a reply.

Queen Raina smiled to her young daughter and requested, “Good morning Serenade. I am happy to see you awake. You need to get dressed and head towards the grand hall. Please wear something that would be good for travel. You will be leaving Elendor for a while today. I think you should really should see where Geoffry is from”. Raina avoided saying Axelia, she knew it would only get her daughter more angry than she already was.
It only took Serenade a moment to connect the dots. “Axelia?!” Serenade exclaimed. Serenade never wanted to go to Axelia. Ever. From what she heard from her gated community, it was full of disgust. “What if I get hurt out there huh?!” There was also the fact Serenade had never left her Kingdom before in her life. There was no need to.

The Queen let out a huff at her daughter but seemed to keep her cool. Queen Raina had once had the spunky personality Serenade had, but over the years she learned to cool down. “Listen this is not a choice. If you want to be a good Queen one day you need to know our neighboring Kingdoms. Also Geoffry will be there, I have fate he will protect you. You are also my daughter so I know you would never go down without a fight. Now will you child? Now please get dressed and head to the Great Hall Geoffry will meet you there.” Turning around the Queen walks away with a smile as she leaves her daughter completely dumbstruck.

I’m going to Axelia?! She had a feeling her mother was behind this. She hated the idea of leaving her Kingdom, Serenade had no idea what laid beyond Elendor’s gates. A slight fear was forming inside of her at the thought of not being in Elendor. Serenade did her best to push it to the side. Fear is for children…

Opening up her wardrobe, she found dress after dress. It seemed like she had nothing but royal dresses. Serenade looked closer and pulled out a long dark blue dress. It was a bit old and wasn’t as fancy as the rest of her dresses. Slipping into the short sleeved dress that came down to her ankles, she looked it the mirror. Simple and still pretty… where did I get this old thing anyways? Sliding on her sandals she then left her room towards the grand hall.

 

[nladisha]

((wait, how far is Axelia from Elendor?))

Geoffry didn't sleep easily that night. His was mind was racing over the prospect of making Serenade fall in love with him. It seemed impossible. Love only happened after marriage, once the couple started really getting to know each other. It drove him mad.

He was up early the next morning, dressed for another day of touring. His older sister had helped choose his wardrobe, with input from their little sister. Geoffry trusted them, and hoped they'd help him make a good impression on the princess. He found her downstairs in the grand hall, dressed surprisingly simple for a princess of a rich kingdom. She actually looked very pretty in it.

"Good morning," he said cheerfully. "Did you sleep well?" He seemed rather laid back and was in a pleasant mood this morning. He hoped the princess had recovered from her ordeal the previous day.

 

[Viola]

((As far as you like, I just figured a small travel would make it more interesting, and then there would be an opportunity for our characters to talk and what not. ))

Serenade smiled when she saw Geoffry, she had nothing against him personally, just the situation. His appearance made Serenade’s cheeks glow pink. She replied to him, “Good morning, yes I slept well. Thank you for asking. How about you?” Before Geoffry had time to reply the Queen interrupted them.

“Good morning both of you. I have supplied you two a carriage to get to Axelia. It is outside of the castle gates waiting for you two.” Queen Raina looked to Serenade’s clothing, “My my! It has been awhile since I’ve seen you in such rags. But it is perfect, you don’t want to draw to much attention. So even if you have one of your wild moments you cannot give yourself a bad name. Child you will understand when you are older. Just behave.” Looking over to Geoffry, “Please take good care of my daughter. I would normally not trust someone I personally do not know well, but I have a feeling you will not let me down.” The Queen smiled warmly to them, “Now please both of you, get on your way and be safe.”

Serenade always obeyed her mother better than her father. But the comment about her ‘rags’ got her a bit upset but she decided to let it slide. “Mom I’m not gonna be stupid! Give me a little more credit. I will be safe I am grown after all. Goodbye, I will see you soon”. Serenade gave her mother a quick hug and headed with Geoffry to the exit of the castle.

Serenade thought about what it would be like in Axelia. Maybe she should just ask. When they finally reached outside of the gates of the castle there was a fancy carriage waiting for them. It had two beautiful white steeds, that waited patiently in place. The driver of the marriage opened the door for the two of them and Serenade got in. She sat facing towards the horses on the far side of the carriage.

An excitement took over her, yes she was scared but the thrill of leaving the Kingdom was hard to ignore. When Geoffry got inside, she asked him “So what should I expect in Axelia? From what I hear it is rotten but of course that is me hearing talk from the guards and townspeople. They aren’t very reliable when it comes to information”, she giggled,

 

[nladisha]

Geoffry was surprised they'd be leaving for Axelia today, of all days. It was a three day journey to the border as the carriage rolled, and another four to the capital city (a total of three days for a fast horse and rider). His parents and sister were scarcely one day ahead of them. Then again, this carriage looked more like the coaches used by the people of the New Lands than his family's carriage, which rode more like a frieght wagon. This one was light and durable, built for speed and strength alongside the typical Elendoran elegance. The horses looked fast too, capable of running long distances for long periods of time. And with an early start, perhaps they might just arrive in Axelia a day early, right alongside his family. Geoffry settled into the seat for the beginning of the long ride.

He paused as he pondered the state of his kingdom.

"Rotten isn't exactly far off," he began. "Axelia is poor, but we're not destitute. We just chose to concentrate our resources in our army. Unfortunately, things have really gotten bad these days. The countries of the New Lands have agreed to help us achieve a level of power equal to thiers, but they have not delivered. Instead, they have done nothing but take - they take our lands to grow crops that have no other value except to buy and sell for something other than eating; they take our resources simply because thier own petty disagreements prevent them from trading with one another; and they take the livelyhoods of countless artisans by selling us cheap goods they produce themselves from the resources they steal. Whatever we have left, we must use for our army to guard against the double threat from your kingdom, and as an insurance against an attack from the New Lands. All we've achieved to make our people poorer. We are still powerful, but I fear we may soon have nothing left to back that power."

 

[Viola]

Serenade took a moment to think about the distance of the two kingdoms. Realizing she would be on the carriage for a few days made her sigh deeply. Her mother set her up, she had too. Now she had plenty of time to get to know Geoffry but the idea of the arranged married still unsettled her. Crossing her legs she listens closely to Geoffry description of Axelia.

A question ran though her mind, “But if Axelia is strong, couldn’t you expand? That way you could get land for crops and make gold. But I suppose that isn’t a simple task.” A marriage is a lot more peaceful than war… “I guess I will have to see it for myself won’t I?” Serenade let out a sigh as she looked out of the carriage as it begins to move. “No offense to you, I just wish there was another way,” she was referring to the treaty but she didn’t;’t want to get upset. Deciding the change the subject, “Well I guess seeing another neighboring kingdom is a good idea if I’m going to be Queen one day.” After a long moment, Serenade had another question to ask him, “So Geoffry, what do you think about being King one day? Do you think you will make a good King?” Serenade wondered how confident he was.