Damien Isac Bellaloa's Story

Isabelle let a tired yawn escape her mouth, they had been travelling by sea for almost a week and by carriage for at least four days, in all honesty she had stopped counting when she stepped foot off of the boat. It was early mourning, the guards had packed up the camping ground and loaded everything back into the carriages or onto the horses backs. As usual her carriage was surrounded by guards, three walked on either side and four walked behind, she supposed they were just being careful though Isabelle was sure nothing would happen to them while they were travelling.
"We are almost there Your Grace." Isabelle smiled kindly at the general.
"Thank you General." She said with a slight nod and he nodded back before walking ahead to check on the rest of the men she assumed, sure enough in about an hours time the main city of the Kingdom of Teirwen came into view and Isabelle could see the castle at the back, as they came up to the front of the trumpets blew announcing their arrival. "Its bigger than I remember it." Isabelle said to Ria who was sitting across from her. "I was here once when I was very little maybe four, I don't remember much." Isabelle heard the trumpets sound again, she knew it would be the Queen of the eastern Kingdoms Isabelle knew that she was coming as well but wasn't aware of how close behind she was.

The door opened and with a bow the man who had been driving the carriage offered Isabelle his hand, she took it stepping out of the carriage Ria following behind. A crowd of people had gathered and whispers had started growing through the crowd, Isabelle glanced to her right to see the eastern Queen and her Lady, she smiled softly when they came over, Isabelle had known Sinead for a few years, the northerns Kingdom's alliance with the Eastern one had been strong for a few decades after the large war. Trumpets blew a different tune and an announce called. "Announcing His Royal Highness King Isac and Her Royal Highness Queen Amelia."
Isabelle watched as the King walked out with the Queen by his side the crowd bowed low for a few moments before standing again, Isabelle hoped her marriage would turn out the way Isac's and Amelia's had, but theres was not arranged as hers was, she always hated visiting other Kingdoms, there were a few small ones scattered here and there who hadn't been claimed by any of the main three and than on larger one further south almost at the border of the realm, but the actual arrival was a long and tedious process that Isabelle found as she did more she had less patience for.
"Announcing His Majesty Prince Damien and His Majesty Prince Nathaniel." Isabelle stood up a bit taller as the two Princes walked out joining the company of their parents, the Queen gave her boys an affectionate look.

Now it was Sinead and Isabelle's turn, oh she knew this dance so well and she just wanted it to be over with. "Introducing to the Royal Family of Teirwen." The announcer started. "Her royal Highness Queen Isabelle Delphine of the Northern Kingdoms and Her Royal Highness Queen Sinead Morrigan of the Eastern Kingdoms." Isabelle took a breath walking down the isle that had been created by the crowd Sinead by her side and their ladies behind them, Isabelle stopped a few feet away from the Family and gave a small nod, a sign of respect since she was their Equal there was no need for her to curtsy or bow in anyway, they just simply nodded to each other. The Princes however had bowed and stood straight again.
"Your Majesties, it is an honour to be welcomed back to Teirwen." Isabelle said with a soft smile.

Amelia went to the window of their large room and looked out to the castle court yard where people had begun their daily routines, her hair was fully down though she had been dressed, it was one of her fancier ones since they were expecting the arrival of Sinead and Isabelle. Amelia walked over to her husband with a small smile giving him a gentle good morning kiss before sitting down in the chair beside him putting her hand over his. "Its a beautiful day. Perfect for the arrival of Sinead and Isabelle." She sat back in her chair. "The boys know, Nathaniel has been told he isn't aloud to leave the castle grounds today much to his displeasure, we don't have to worry about Damien disappearing, he never wanders far." A knock came from the door, the guard opened it and in came a scrawny messenger.
"Your Grace, Your Grace." He greeted with a shaky voice and a small bow. "Queen Isabelle's carriage has been spotted, and Queen Sinead's not far behind it."
"Have the Prince's been told?" Amelia asked in a monotone voice, the messenger nodded and she waved her hand dismissively. "That will be all then."

A few minutes after the trumpets began to sound announcing their arrival, Amelia stood smoothing her dress and took Isac's arm when he offered it to her, the made their way though the many halls stopping at the main entrance to the castle, they were announced and walked out, not very far but just enough, a few moments later the boys were announced, Amelia smiled affectionately at her sons, she got a kind smile back from Damien and what looked like an eye roll from Nathaniel but dismissed it, she turned her attention back to the two young Queens that stood at the end of the long path, they walked up after the announcer had announced them, their ladies following them like lost puppies Amelia though, each gave a curt nod, Amelia nodded back. "Your Majesties, it is an honour to be welcomed back to Teirwen." Isabelle said softly, Amelia recognized her almost immediately it had been so long since she had seen the girl but she looked almost exactly like her mother.
"It is a pleasure to have you back Queen Isabelle." She replied a small smile appearing on her lips.

A deep breath of the air that lay flat in their chambers, and even that seemed to have changed for the past few weeks. Today was an awfully big day indeed, and though Isac hadn't need to worry, he did. Anything can happen when royal quests to arrive at the castle. And, of course, most if not all royal business was public to the kingdom, especially with it being such business of this. But it was to come someday. Dressed and ready, Isac sat in his chair, admiring the Kingdom he called home. "Its a beautiful day. Perfect for the arrival of Sinead and Isabelle." Amelia said, her voice calming his nerves. Taking a deep breath with a content smile on his face as if letting the day soak in. "Indeed it is." Upon starting her next statement, Isac gazed at her, his worry coming back in all full thrust. "If, god forbid, Nathaniel decide to cause any mischief..." He trailed off at the knock at the door. It was time.

With his flirtatious and loving smile Isac used oh so much to bring back memories of the first sparks he had had with his wife, he offered his arm to her. They made their way down to the doors, as they walked, guard after guard, adviser after adviser, staggered along, tripping slightly as Isac and Amelia refused to slow down as they tried to obtain orders. "Sir, we have the stop where you must stop outside the door to forbid any act of uprise, your highness." One adviser said. "I assure you, we'll be fine. Don't worry. We've got men around the perimeter to stop any uproar to happen." Isac assured. "Your royal-ness, I may have, uh, overcook the roast..." The sweeting chief trailed off. "Just finish the ham and don't give it thought. I'm not much a fan of roast anyways." Isac reassured with a hearty laugh. Upon reaching the door, the only distraction were the dresser who made sure the King and the Queen were in tip-top, royal order.

The introductions were made as always. And as always, Isac became slightly distracted by two small children in the court. He gave a smile and a little wave to them before turning back to the two young queens in front of him. "Yes, welcome back. I hope you both feel right at home." He said with is usual charming, fatherly smile. "And I'm sure the boys love to have you here as well."

Nathan walked towards his door only to be stopped by the guard he let out a very annoyed sigh and glared at the man. "I'm sorry your Highness but you know you are not to leave your room until the Queen's arrive. Queen Amelia's orders." Nathan rolled his eyes sitting in his chair.
"So my mother has you on keep Nathaniel out of trouble duty? This will be fun, all I need is a guard watching over me like a hawk all day." He put his feet up on the table watching the guard carefully. "And what of my brother, is he being watched as well?" Nathan laughed at his own comment, of coarse his perfect older brother wasn't being watched, he never disappeared, never wandered off, and never had fun, the thought of him made Nathan cringe with boredom.
"The King and Queen say it is important you are on your best behaviour My Lord." One of his Fathers advisors entered the room Nathan knew him as Xavier one of his Fathers favourites. As he recalled his Mother had warmed up to him as well which was rare if it occurred at all.
"Ah Xavier." Nathan said a devilish smirk appearing on his face. "Come to join the party? Or are you on watch dog duty as well?" He chuckled as the advisor made his way into the large room, it wasn't as big as his parents and was also smaller than his brothers but it was still fairly large.
"I am here to make sure you are presentable." Xavier replied. "And currently you are not, you are in your hunting clothes, your future wife is coming and may I remind your highness that she is a Queen. I suggest you dress as a prince since you are one." Nathan growled a little swinging his feet off of the table he changed and just in time to, the trumpets sounded announcing the arrival of his future wife and his brothers as well, he let out another irritable sigh as he was ushered out the door, and through the hall ways.

Nathan's parents had just been announced as he came up beside his brother they were announced an together they walked out, coming up beside their parents the affectionate smile their mother gave them made Nathan role his eyes. He tuned out most of the greeting until the two young Queens actually stood before them, he reluctantly bowed with his brother, why was he bowing to his future wife? It should have been her bowing to him, and the same for his brother, Damien was the future king, his intended should have been on her knees in front of him. "Your Majesties, it is an honour to be welcomed back to Teirwen." Nathan looked at the one who had spoken, he assumed that she was the Queen of the north, there was fur around the top of her cloak and circling the hood, it was cold in the north Nathan knew that. "It is a pleasure to have you back Queen Isabelle." His mother replied which caused Nathan to make a little sound of amusement he waited for his father to finish speaking"Yes, welcome back. I hope you both feel right at home." His father said with his usual charming, fatherly smile. "And I'm sure the boys love to have you here as well." Nathan made another amused noise this time loud enough that it caught the young Queens attention.
"Well this is lovely and all, but I have already waisted enough of my day locked up in this castle." He looked at both of the young ladies. "If you would so Kindly excuse me your Majesties, but I don't have the time nor the effort for having to deal with formalities all day." Nathan bowed a little, he heard a sharp Nathaniel come from his Mother who looked as if she might drop dead, his brother was looking down and his Father looked as if he could have burned a whole town down rage, which was his cue to bow again and quickly leave knowing neither his parents nor is brother would follow him.

His group of friends escaped the crowds and met him at the barn. "Your parents are going to kill you, did you see the look on your fathers face?" Nathan nodded leading his horse out of the stables.
"Which is why we are going to leave before he can send the guards after me, which they will do the moment they get the chance." Nathan said with certainty he would deal with his fathers rage later, he knew he would get it this time, his father was calm and forgiving usually, but the situation was delicate, and him leaving and making such comments could be taken as an insult though he doubted it would go that way.
"Alright, where are we going to day?" Jordan asked once he was on his horse and the other four young lords were as well.
"Deep into the woods." Nathan said his cross bow and sword at his side. "All of the deer have moved in, we really must be back for the feast being put on for the Queens though. My parents are angry enough I don't need them chopping my head off." Nathan said a figure of speech of coarse, but his friends got the gist and they rode off.

Damien moved swiftly through his room a book in his hand.
"Your highness." the Advisor his Father had sent said. "Your Highness." He said again this time a little bit louder. "Prince Damien!" Damien looked up from the book and put it down on his desk. "I apologize Jacob, I'm worried about my brother, his behaviour is not always the best. I read when I worry." Damien went to the window he watched as birds flew by, he could see the swans in the pond bellow, his room faced the gardens, and he preferred it more than the view any of his other family members rooms had, his parents over looked the courtyard but had a nice view of the ocean, and his brothers room over looked the woods.
"I'm sure your brother will be on his best behaviour my prince." Jacob said with a reassuring tone but Damien didn't seem convinced, he knew his brother almost as well as he knew himself, he would not be happy about spending the day dealing with formalities, bowing, and escorting, he would find some way to get out of it.

The sound he had been dreading all morning sounded and she made his way quickly through the halls coming up beside his Nathan just in time to be announced. "Behave." Damien said sharply but Nathan didn't seem to hear him and if he did he brushed it off without even a side ways glance. Damien came up right beside his mother and kindly smiled back at her when she smiled at him. He bowed low when the Queens walked up and stood before them, he waited for his parents to greet them, usually he would great them before his brother being crown Prince, but Nathan cut him off before her could start. "Well this is lovely and all, but I have already waisted enough of my day locked up in this castle." Nathan looked at both of the young ladies. "If you would so Kindly excuse me your Majesties, but I don't have the time nor the effort for having to deal with formalities all day." Damien heard his mother snap Nathan's name sharply, she had paled considerably and is Damien didn't know any better he would of thought she would have fainted, he noticed her grip tighten considerably on his fathers arm, and his Father looked outrage which was a rare sight in deed, Damien just looked down as his brother made his escape, he could hear his Mother whisper something worriedly into his fathers ear but it was to low for him to make out what she had said.
"Mother, Father." Damien started. "I don't mind giving Queen Isabelle and Queen Sinead a tour of the castle grounds while the servants get their things to their room." He turned his attention to the Queens. "I'm sure it would be easier for both of you to settle in if you know how to get to places, there is nothing worse than getting lost. Once your things are put away I can show you to your rooms, I'm sure your journeys have been long and tiring and you would like nothing more than to rest" Damien said hoping it would rectify the situation, his parents seemed to agree, and he was relieved when the Queens nodded slightly as well, though he was sure he was going to kill his brother if his father didn't first.

Ria rested her heavy, leather-bound book upon her lap and glanced out at the window, as she listened to the general report to her Queen that they had nearly reached the castle grounds. That was good news, though part of her would miss all the travelling they had been doing - Ria absolutely loved travelling throughout the kingdoms. She had spent quite a bit of her life cooped up, only allowed to go so far on horseback before she would be hauled home by her father's men. While she normally would have opted for comfort while travelling, today she had dressed in her finest since they would be arriving today. Her gown was a lovely rich amethyst colored silk and her hair was worn loose, falling around her shoulders in golden brown waves.

Upon their arrival, the trumpets sounded, welcoming the Northern Queen back to the Kingdom of Teirwin. A radiant smile graced her face as she listened to Isabelle speak and while she didn't say it, the sound of the trumpets gave her chills. "It was a long time ago, but don't worry, my Queen. Everyone will love you, I just know it. And soon enough you'll get reacquainted with everything." She said, reassuringly. It was quite large though, she had to admit. Teirwin was everything she had expected, although she still couldn't seem to have anticipated. It was absolutely magnificent. "It is very large though, isn't it? And beautiful." She told Isabelle, though the word didn't seem to do it justice she thought as she looked around at the grounds.


When they arrived, their driver opened the door and offered them both a hand out, which Ria graciously accepted. She followed behind her queen, clasping her hands together as she looked out at the growing crowd with a smile. It seemed everyone wanted to see the introductions. Evidently the Eastern Queen and her lady had been right behind them as well, that didn't surprise Ria as they had been meant to arrive at about the same time. After the introductions, she made a mental note to scope out her competition. She then turned her attention to a more pressing matter. The King and Queen and the young Princes. The trumpets sounded again, this time to a different tune and the announcement rang clear, "Announcing His Royal Highness King Isac and Her Royal Highness Queen Amelia." She curtsied to the royals and offered the queen a polite nod, which was returned. The King and Queen both looked to be in good health, they were both still young but she knew now that their sons and their suitors had come of age that they were meant to be married now. She was going to have to get to know them all a little better, for things may not always be as they are at first glance.

"Announcing His Majesty Prince Damien and His Majesty Prince Nathaniel." She kept her expression neutral. Both were handsome, though one was dark of hair and the the other light. Both appeared to be well built and healthy-looking. But what interested her more was the minds beneath those lovely locks. Were they ambitious? Were they fools? Were they cruel? Ria would have to find out for herself and decide who might be worth her trouble and who wasn't.

Isabelle spoke to the King and Queen, respectful as always for these situations could be delicate. The person who didn't seem to want to take their time to tread carefully was the light-haired prince, Nathaniel if she wasn't mistaken. He was to be married to the Eastern Queen. "If you would so Kindly excuse me your Majesties, but I don't have the time nor the effort for having to deal with formalities all day." He swept a bow and Ria had to suppress the giggle that was building within her. The Queen of Teirwin must be absolutely horrified at her youngest son's behavior. Oh, dear. This was probably not what the Eastern Queen had expected, but Ria for one was delighted with the show that had been put on. I think I quite like him. She thought, amused as she watched him depart. But she was going to have to get to know him much better before she came to any true conclusions, after all for all she knew the boy was a fool - this sort of situation could go very wrong and the Eastern Queen could be insulted, many people had been offended by less.

The dark haired Prince Damien seemed to try to put forth an effort to smooth things over, offering to show the two visiting Queens around so they could get their bearings. He himself looked rather mortified by what had just happened with his brother, Ria noticed. He must be the more well behaved of the two. If Isabelle went with her fiance, that meant Ria as probably going to be left on her own to explore and entertain herself, she thought a bit glumly. Oh, well. She'd just have to find her own way around and amuse herself. Perhaps could go for a ride or try to see if she could bump into the other Prince who seemed to have better things to do than get to know the new arrivals.

Sinead looked out of the window of the carriage, watching the scenery roll by. Today was the day she would meet her future husband. Like all brides, she supposed, she had an idea of what she hoped Prince Nathaniel would be like. She didn't cling to the fantasy, she knew better than most that fate had a way of skewering the best of plans and intentions. It was better for her that she expected little, that way there was a smaller chance of disappointment and hurt.

"Adelaide," she waited for her Lady-in-Waiting to look up before she continued, "When we arrive in Teirwen, if there is anything you wish for, anything at all, just ask. I would hate for you to feel suffocated during our time here."

Sinead kept her gaze out if the window, waiting for the first sight of Teirwen. She had visited once before, but she had been little more than an infant so her memories of the kingdom were hazy at best. As Lorcan grew older, travelling as a family became a rarer event as healers deemed moving Lorcan around to be too risky. The turrets of the palace came into view and Sinead felt an odd mix of excitement and apprehension swell in her bosom. She took a deep breath to calm heart nerves, feeling even more like a child as more of the palace came into view. The carriage pulled up outside the palace. A crowd had gathered to see the Northern and Eastern Queens. Queen Isabelle had already arrived. She heard, rather than saw, one of the footmen jump down from the front carriage to open the door to Sinead and Adelaide. Sinead took his offered hand as she stepped down from the carriage. She waited for Adelaide before making the long walk to the palace alongside Queen Isabelle and her own Lady-in-Waiting.

"Announcing His Royal Highness King Isac and Her Royal Highness Queen Amelia." Sinead looked up to see the King and Queen arrive arm in arm, the apparent picture of marital bliss. Sinead nodded to her hosts. They were equals and so there was no need to curtsey. The announcer continued, "Announcing His Majesty Prince Damien and His Majesty Prince Nathaniel."

Sinead cast her gaze over the Princes. One was to be her husband, the other her brother-in-law. She supposed Nathaniel was handsome enough, "Well this is lovely and all, but I have already waisted enough of my day locked up in this castle. If you would so kindly excuse me your Majesties, but I don't have the time nor the effort for having to deal with formalities all day."

Sinead blinked, taken aback by Nathaniel's bluntness. She largely ignored Amelia's reaction. This was the man, no the boy, she was meant to marry. This boy who couldn't even be bothered to at least pretend to be happy to see her or Isabelle. Sinead bit back a barbed retort. At this point, there was little point in riling anyone up. Isabelle seemed to be the one coming out of this arrangement on the better foot. At least her intended was trying to smooth things over. Sinead was certainly agreeable to Damien's proposition, "That sounds wonderful Prince Damien," Sinead looked to Isabelle, "Will you be joining us?"

Adelaide looked at her Queen when she spoke to her. "Yes of coarse Your Grace." She replied softly a tiredness to her voice, they had been traveling for what felt like ages and Adelaide was no fan of traveling, she preferred to stay in places she knew well and Teirwen was not one of those places, she had visited with her father twice when she was seven and the other time when she was nine, other than that she had never been to the kingdom and had no longing to return to it. When they arrived the footman jumped down and opened the door for them, Adelaide waited for Sinead to step out before taking the footman's hand and stepping out herself. She followed Sinead to where she went and stood beside the northern Queen who smiled kindly at both of them, she recalled from the Northern Queen's visits that she was one of the kinder people in the world. She watched as the King and Queen walked out Arm in Arm, they looked so happy, and appeared to be as in love with each other as they were when they were younger, she wished for Sinead's marriage to turn out that way, but then again, the King and Queen choose each other there was no arranging between parents, no document that was signed, no alliance that if broken could possibly start a war.

Adelaide sighed when they started their long walk down to where the royal family was standing, she curtsied before standing back up, the Queen of the North, Isabelle if she was not mistaken spoke to both the King and Queen, Adelaide looked at Isabelle her voice could have been that of an angels, so soft and innocent as if the Queen were a little girl no older than ten, but there was also strength to it and authority like most Queens voices had. When Prince Nathaniel spoke Adelaide's head jolted that way.
"Well this is lovely and all, but I have already waisted enough of my day locked up in this castle. If you would so kindly excuse me your Majesties, but I don't have the time nor the effort for having to deal with formalities all day." Adelaide looked at the younger Prince rather shocked and speechless though the Northern Queens lady Ria seemed to be amused, she could see Sinead clearly stiffen as the young prince made his escape from the situation, Amelia seemed horrified by her youngest sons behaviour while Isac seemed out right furious but neither of them left after the boy.

"I'm sure it would be easier for both of you to settle in if you know how to get to places, there is nothing worse than getting lost. Once your things are put away I can show you to your rooms, I'm sure your journeys have been long and tiring and you would like nothing more than to rest" The dark haired prince said who Adelaide assumed was Damien, it was clear that the older boy was better behaved, knew how to rectify the situation, a delicate situation at that. "Will you be joining us?" Sinead said looking at Isabelle. Adelaide turned her attention to Isabelle.

Isabelle raised her eyebrows at the young Princes behaviour though she noticed seemed more amused with it than shocked, she looked at Sinead as the Prince made his escape she was clearly unimpressed, and Amelia was clearly very unhappy with her younger sons behaviour. Damien, her own intended however attempted to smooth over and Sinead had agreed with what he had proposed. "Will you be joining us?"Isabelle looked at Sinead and nodded slightly.
"Of coarse, it sounds wonderful." Damien bowed a little, Isabelle nodded her head slightly at Amelia and Isac before following Damien and Sinead, the castle was much larger than she remembered it to be, she was surprised that even know Damien lived here that he knew the whole place like the back of his hand.

The Gardens were by far her favourite out of the whole tour, there were many flowers of all different colours, there was pond with two swans a few children played their games in the gardens their laughter filling the air. Isabelle smiled as they ran past, they made their way through the winding paths of the gardens and back into the castle, Damien informed them that they couldn't see the ballroom until that evening since it was currently being prepared for the ball and there would be servants and advisors rushing around at every turn. Their next stop was their chambers, they had come across Sinead's first, of coarse it was heavily guarded Damien bowed, Isabelle simple smiled.
"I will see you tonight." Isabelle followed Damien to her own Chambers which were also heavily guarded. "Thank you Prince Damien, I will also see you tonight?" He nodded slightly and Isabelle smiled, their ladies had their own chambers but Isabelle welcomed Ria into her own. Isabelle sighed in relief and slipped her shawl off, she let her hair fully down and started at the back of her dress. "Have the maids run me a bath please Ria." She said going over to the mirror it wasn't long before five maybe six maids were rushing around her room. "Go tend to yourself Ria, rest. It has been a long journey." She watched as her lady slipped out of the room. Isabelle took her earrings out while one maid pinned her hair up and another worked at her corset which in truth had been driving her insane since she put it on earlier in the morning. She was relieved when she stepped into the warm water and sat down, she closed her eyes, the maids still rushed around the room readying another dress for her to change into after.

"Well this is lovely and all, but I have already waisted enough of my day locked up in this castle. If you would so kindly excuse me your Majesties, but I don't have the time nor the effort for having to deal with formalities all day." Amelia heard her son say, her grip tightened considerably on Isac's arm. "Nathaniel." She said sharply but the boy didn't react, she felt as if her heart would stop when she saw Nathan make a quick get away, Damien however had quickly rectified the situation and proceeded to take the two Queens and their ladies into the castle. They waited before turning and going back into the castle being swarmed by Advisors and guards once again.
"I want Nathaniel found, I don't care if you have to send the whole royal guard after the boy you Find him. Am I understood?" She looked at one of the advisors, her tone cold. Amelia let go of Isac's arm in pure frustration and started up the hall at a quick pace. "Find him." She snapped again but didn't turn around. She ran a hand through her golden hair as she walked down the hall, the hoard of Advisors had stayed back with Isac usually some would follow her, but with the mood she was in she knew none of them would, four guards had followed her however today was a day of caution. Hosting two Queens from different kingdoms could easily make someone very angry.

Amelia walked down the long hall, her destination was their room, two guards stood outside they bowed before opening the door, the four guards that had followed her stationed themselves around the room, the servant who was generally always in the room bowed quickly when she entered.
"Pour me some wine." she ordered with a wave of her hand sitting down in one of the chairs her hand on her head, she was still baffled that her son would act that way knowing full well that it was a delicate situation, she took the wine taking a sip. Amelia turned when she heard the door open. "Xavier..." She greeted the advisor. "Did my husband send you to make sure I don't kill anyone out of rage?" She asked softly as Xavier came over.
"No your Majesty, but the King will be along shortly." Xavier sat down across the table from Amelia when she gestured that it was fine.
"Then what is it you need? I'm not exactly in a good mood I would advise you not to waist my time." Amelia said with a warning filled glance.
"I think it would be wise Your Majesty, if Nathaniel did not attend the feast being put on in honour of the two Queens." An amused smile crept onto Amelia's face.
"It would be wise, if it were possible." She replied. "Nathaniel has to be there, it is a feast to honour his future wife. She may take offence if he isn't present." Before Xavier could say another word the door opened and Isac walked in he bowed.
"Your grace." He said as the King came over, he excused himself deciding he didn't really want to be a part of the discussion he knew was coming.

Amelia glanced at Isac shaking her head. "I don't know what we are going to do with him Isac." she shook her head a little taking another sip of the wine before putting it down. "He knows full well he can not behave like that." She prevented herself from snapping, she looked at her husband, he looked as if he had calmed down collected himself, Isac was a kind man, not one who angered easily if at all. "Why can't he be more like you and less like me?"

And all was going so well, Isac thought after Damien began smoothing things over, leading the queens inside. Shortly after, Amelia and himself headed back into the palace, immediately swamped with guards and advisors. As Amelia ordered for Nathaniel to be found, Isac was already giving orders to where to look. He paused a moment and watched as Amelia walked away, heading toward the royal chambers. Then he went back to discussing with the guards and advisors. "Does anyone have any idea where he has gone?!" Isac had to practically yell over the sound of all the guards and advisors. They all changed their voice. "I believe I saw him at the stables, my lord." One guard said. "Yes, and he was dressed in his hunting clothes this morning, you highness." Xavier said. "Right, when is he not." Isac said solemnly. "Xavier, I ask you to tell Amelia I'll be up in just a moment." Isac ordered. Xavier nodded and bowed with a quick "Yes, your grace," before heading up the the chambers.

"Quiet down! Now, quiet down!" Isac said, trying his best to keep his head. metaphorically, of course. He just didn't want to snap. "I would like a small group to check the woods by horse! If I'm not mistaken, that's where Nathaniel hunts. I'd like the rest of you to search the grounds!" Isac said, his face turning a shade of red. Usually, Isac is a calm, forgiving man. But today is certainly not the day for Nathaniel's antics. "What do we do if we find him, my lord?" A guard asked. Isac shot him a look, and in Isac's eyes was something not seen since the war. "Not if, when. When you find him, l want you to lock him in the dungeon with high security. Then come and inform me, and only me. Am I understood." There was a long pause before the collective said, "Yes, your highness." "Very well. You are dismissed." At that, Isac started to his chambers. "You can find me in my chambers." He added, not looking back, before turning the corner. He was followed by a pair of guards on the alert. They were talking about their family's. Usual, Isac would join in on the conversation, but in this situation, he wasn't motivated.

Shortly, he arrived at his chambers and entered, Xavier almost immediately bowing and excusing himself. "I don't know what we are going to do with him Isac." Amelia said, shaking her head slightly. Isac made his way toward one of the chairs and sat down. She already had a glass of wine in her hand. "He knows full well he can not behave like that." Isac nodded at the statement. "He should at least." He mumbled. "Why can't he be more like you and less like me?" Amelia said, and Isac's heart nearly dropped to his shoes. "Awh, now don't say something like that." Isac said, gently taking Amelia's hand and rubbing it ever so slightly. "I'm sure he'll be back and more behaved before the feast."

"How long do you suppose it will be before they find you Nathan?" Jordan asked as they quietly moved through the woods, he knew his friend had really done it this time.
"A few hours perhaps. Knowing my parents, they will be asking anyone and everyone for information on where I could be." Nathan shrugged it off. "Maybe they should of had another son, then they could marry him off to some Queen instead of me." it was clear that Nathan was not happy with the whole arrangement he also knew he would be compared to his brother the whole time, why he couldn't be more like Damien, why he couldn't be more like his father, the whole situation made him angry. His father had chosen his mother, their marriage was not arranged so why did his have to be? Why couldn't he pick who he married?
"Maybe you should just pretend Nathan. There is no point in starting a family war over this." Jordan said softly. Nathan simply scoffed at his friends remark.
"I already have." He replied, he turned around hearing people yelling. "He is down here, the Prince is down here." and a whole hoard of guard came down the hill, Nathan rolled his eyes. "Well isn't this a lovely surprise." he turned facing the guards a smirk plastered on his face. "I assume you are here to drag me back to the Palace, how lovely."
"I do not think this is a time for your games Prince Nathaniel, your Father is very unhappy with you." Nathan raised his eyebrows it was rare for an advisor to come for him as well.
"When isn't my father unhappy with me?" He asked with a little chuckle. " Well, we should probably head back."

Nathan started heading towards his room when they arrived back but was stopped by one of the guards. "We were ordered to put you in the dungeon Prince Nathaniel." Nathan gave a very amused laugh and followed the guards.
"The Dungeons? Well this is new, I haven't been locked in the dungeons yet. This will be fun." He walked down the steps into the cool dungeons, he was put in the first cell, it was heavily guarded probably his fathers doing. "Are you expecting me to escape? or is this just to scare me?" He asked curiously but didn't get any reply except Kings orders, he just gave a little shrug laying down on the bed his hands behind his head. "When will my Father get here? I'm aware that he will probably be informed of my...Capture."

Nathan sat up hearing his Father, he smiled when he appeared in front of the door. He stood brushing himself off.
"Father." He greeted and took a quick look around. "The dungeons? Thats a new one, I've been locked in the towers, and I have been locked in my room, Ive been locked in your room, but the dungeons, very unlike you. Mother..." He shrugged slightly. "Perhaps." Nathan went back over to the bed and sat back down leaning against the wall, he laughed. "Have you come to give me the regular lecture? Of how I'm a Prince and I should act like one. Or is it going to be the usual, why can't you be more like Damien? Why can't you be kinder? Why must you cause trouble where ever you go? If thats the case you should just leave, I'm tired of living in my perfect older brothers shadows, maybe you should get mother pregnant again, have another son one you can be proud of."

Isac shook his head ever so slightly as Amelia continued to talk. It was true. All too true. Nathaniel was probably a lost cause, but Isac can't help but notice what they had had in common. Of course, Isac never acted like Nathaniel did when he was young, but Isac was also the younger brother of an older sibling, and as such seemed to live in the shadow of his elder brother. And to make a name for himself, he was the best he could be. His patience was high and his anger would be pushed down at the thought that it was out of his control. At the knock at the door, Isac knew exactly what it was for.

"Go then. It must be important, you should probably attend to it." Amelia said, referring to the guard who had entered. It had crossed Isac's mind that he hadn't mentioned what he had to the guards to do once they found their son. "It's Nathaniel." Isac started, standing and taking off his over robe that, to us, would be more like a jacket. "He's in the Dungeon. I told the guards when they found him to put him in the dungeon, heavily guarded, and to come tell me right away." He laid the robe at the end of the bed and turned, waiting for a reaction from his wife as he pushed his sleeves up slightly. He thought back to what his own father would do in this situation. His younger brother was much like Nathaniel. He'd been locked away in the dungeon for days on end. And when his father would go down to see if he learned a lesson, he'd end up with a hard slap across the face. It wasn't until Isac went off in search of a kingdom that his father through his younger brother out of the kingdom, banished to never return. Isac didn't want to do that to his children, and he's not going to. "I'm going to go down and speak with him. If all goes well, I'll talk him into at least giving Sinead a chance."

Done in the Dungeon, Isac pulled up a chair and sat outside the cell they had put Nathaniel in. He faced his son, leaning forward slightly, his elbows on his knees. It was not how most envisioned their king to sit. "The dungeons? Thats a new one, I've been locked in the towers, and I have been locked in my room, Ive been locked in your room, but the dungeons, very unlike you. Mother...Perhaps. Have you come to give me the regular lecture? Of how I'm a Prince and I should act like one. Or is it going to be the usual, why can't you be more like Damien? Why can't you be kinder? Why must you cause trouble where ever you go? If thats the case you should just leave, I'm tired of living in my perfect older brothers shadows, maybe you should get mother pregnant again, have another son one you can be proud of." Nathaniel spoke.

Isac shook his head ever so slightly, his eyes locked on Nathaniel. "No, this is not a regular lecture. Let me explain something. I understand your distaste. I was compared to my older brother my whole life until I fought for my kingdom and avenged my fathers death. Now, I'm not saying that's what you should do since we're in a time of peace, but to act this distasteful?" He shook his head. "It's unbelievable that anyone, anyone, could act like this. It's one thing to do it in spite of your family, but to do it to poor Sinead is over stepping. If there's one thing you should of learned growing up, it would be never disrespecting a lady, weather you are to be betrothed to that lady or not!" Isac voice raised and his anger began to build up again. Right before seeming to blow up, he slacked back in the chair, rubbing his hands over his face and letting them go slack in his lap. "What I'm trying to say, Nathan, is that me and your mother are tired. If it's the arrangement you're mad about, fine. You can call it off. But I ask that you at least give Sinead a chance before doing so. At least that way you'll know what you'll be giving up. And if you still decide you don't want to at least try to make it work, you can leave whenever you want and never return. We won't bother you at all." Isac said. It was a something he didn't think he would actually have to do, but this was a rare occasion. He could only hope that Nathaniel would agree.

"Call it off?" Nathan chuckled. "Please, we both know that is not an option." He turned to face his Father. "I may not listen, but I'm not stupid. I have to Marry Sinead whether it pleases me or not. I have no distaste for her, she is pretty, she is kind, she is wise. My behaviour today was not me trying to get revenge on anything or anyone. It was simply me trying to escape for one more day before a crown is placed on my head, and I am forced to sit in a room full of advisors who babble about things that don't even matter, argue for weeks and don't get anywhere. I hate being confined in the walls of a castle and I always have, and once I marry Sinead I will be a King who will be confined to the walls of a castle." He stood up going to the door leaning against it. He caught his Fathers gaze, he was expecting his father to be very angry, outraged even, he was expecting to be yelled at. The whole conversation had shocked him entirely, he knew he would have to face his brother later but Damien was much like their father calm and collected slow to anger, even than Damien had a bit of his mothers temper. Nathan sort of envied him for that, he didn't get any of his fathers personality.

"I can only hope, and pray that my Marriage will turn out as well as yours did. Though in fairness you did choose your Queen." Nathan sighed. "You and Mother never argue, your the only person in all the lands who can calm her when she is outraged. People dream of having marriages like that." He smiled a little going back over to the bed, he was like his mother in the way he somewhat softened around his father, Nathan laid back down on the bed. "I'm assuming I will be in here a while longer, so if you wouldn't mind having the guards bring me some water." Nathan put his hands behind his head closing his eyes. "And Father. I would never just leave and never come back, you don't need to worry yourself about that, I will always come back."

Sinead followed Damien through the palace, along with Isabelle, trying her best to memorise her way around the palace. Already she had discovered a corner in the gardens that she could escape to with a good book. She had already bought a few books from home, but she didn't imagine that anyone would object too heavily to her borrowing some books from the palace library to read at her leisure. As their tour continued, Sinead wondered how on earth she would ever find her way around this place. It was so much bigger than the palace they had in the east. What if Nathaniel didn't like the palace? Oh, who cared what Nathaniel thought. He had already made it quite clear that he cared little for what she thought of him.

Their tour came to an end at Sinead's chambers. There were two guards positioned outside. This didn't really surprise Sinead, she was used to having guards around, more so since she had become Queen. "I will see you tonight." Isabelle said softly.

"Of course. I look forward to it," Sinead nodded to Damian, in acknowledgement of his bow, and to Isabelle as they left, Damian escorting Isabelle to her own chambers. Sinead turned to Adelaide, "Well," She sighed, opening the door to her chambers, "This certainly has been an interesting first day." Sinead began pulling the pins from her hair, feeling it tumble about her shoulders. She placed them on the dresser, "Adelaide, could you have one of the maids draw me a bath please. And yourself, if you'd like one. I know how you hate travelling," Sinead asked, effectively dismissing Adelaide until later in the evening.

When the bath was ran, Sinead loosened her corset, basking in the relief of removing the accursed item. She lowered herself into the warm water, feeling the aches and pains seemingly melt away. If it were possible for the water temperature to remain constant, Sinead would have remained there for much longer. As it was, the water cooled long before she was really ready to leave the water. When she emerged from the bathing room, an army of maids was on hand to preen her in preparation for the feast that night. In among the flurry of chatter and hands, Sinead managed to ask, "Is Adelaide being attended to?"

One of the maids, a pretty red haired girl who could only be a few years older than Sinead, answered, "Madame Adelaide is being attended to, Your Highness," Her voice was high, but soft on the ear. Sinead fancied that the girl would have a lovely singing voice. Satisfied that Adelaide hadn't been left to fend for herself, Sinead relaxed, almost enjoying the feeling of being fussed over by unfamiliar hands.

Isabelle sighed as she stepped from the water, her room was filled with an army of maids who quickly got to work, by the time they were finished Isabelle found herself in one of her finest dresses, the midnight blue dress was decorated with small crystals that looked like stars against the fabric, the sleeves fell just bellow the shoulders and the neck line was low but not to low. Her hair had been put up, in a half up half down style and to match the dress had been decorated with little crystals, a small crown sat on her head so people knew who she was and her status, she didn't like that costume very much but she followed it, more like she had to follow it. The maids chattered amongst themselves, Isabelle never understood how they worked so efficiently when they were talking all the time. "Is Ria being tended to?" One maid an older Lady stopped what she was doing to answer her Question.
"Yes your Majesty, you lady is being tended to." Isabelle nodded slightly when she was ready she stepped away from the crowd of maids who politely excused themselves their work being done. Isabelle looked around her room, it was quiet and empty looking without all of the maids running around.

A knock came from her door. "Come in." She called and was surprised to see Prince Damien, she nodded when he bowed. "I could have walked myself to the feast Prince Damien." She smiled taking his arm, they exited the room and guards followed them down through the halls and into the ballroom, as usual the arrival of the royalty was announced as they arrived, simply so everyone acknowledged they were in their presence. Isabelle was greeted by many people and had, conversations with a few of them, she held a glass of wine loosely in her hand as she chatted to one of the lords and his Lady, Damien had gone over to his mother and Father, Isabelle looked around for Nathan but couldn't find the younger Prince, though the King and Queen didn't seem to worried about it so she assumed he would be along shortly.

Damien readied himself for the feast, like usual he had to be dressed up and a crown placed on his head, he despised the crown more than he despised the what felt like thousands of layers of fabric he was wearing. Not wanting Isabelle to walk down by herself, he made his way down to her chamber, he knocked and a soft come in came from the other side. Damien opened the door, and bowed before standing again. "I could have walked myself to the feast Prince Damien." She said taking the arm he had offered her he simply smiled. "A Lady should never escort herself to a celebration Your Majesty." He replied with a charming smile leading her down the hall and into the ballroom.

As usual the large ballroom was loud, packed full of chatter among groups of people, some were hovering from group to group weaving their way in between tables to get to the ballroom floor to dance with a suitor. These huge celebrations always seemed to amuse Damien. As Isabelle got more comfortable and had started socializing Damien made his way to where his parents were, his Mother brushed some of his hair from his eyes.

"Mother!" He protested with a small smile. "I'm not a child anymore you don't need to fix my hair." His Father had a very amused look on his face which caused Damien to roll his eyes, he looked back out at the crowd of people and quickly located Isabelle again, it wasn't very hard to spot her, the Young Queen looked stunning, though he was having trouble locating Sinead, so he assumed that she had not yet arrived, and his brother was also missing, though his parents didn't seem to stressed about it which made him Assume his little brother would be along at some time in the evening.
Preferably before dinner Damien thought to himself watching the door as if he were Willing Nathaniel to walk in.

Sinead certainly didn't look to be amused by the young Prince's antics, and Ria thought that she had a right to be. They had after all traveled a long way to come and meet them and this was the greeting they got from the man they were engaged to? That certainly wasn't getting off on the right foot. Still, he had made her want to laugh with his lack of consideration and bored manner. Clearly the older of the two brothers was the the most responsible and likely the most fit to rule.

Both Isabelle and Sinead graciously accepted Prince Damien's offer to show them around, which meant Ria was either going to have to trail after her Queen or go find her own way to Isabelle's chambers and then her own. Maybe I should just go explore on my own... The idea tempted her greatly, but she knew Isabelle would likely expect her to be there to order around the maids and keep her company or whatever and as she glanced over at Queen Sinead's lady, who would likely be in the same boat as her since lady's were often expected to be at their Queen's side. Honestly, Ria wondered if this would give her more time to herself or less now that they were here. Oh, well. She best put to use the time she was going to be here. She glanced back at Queen Sinead's lady again while the King and Queen were undoubtedly sending people off to go find the runaway Prince.

She didn't know the girl's name, but she was a pretty, young red haired girl with both a kind face and eyes. The sweet type, maybe a little shy, Ria suspected. She didn't think she would have trouble with this girl, she didn't seem the eye-gauging and backstabbing type. Maybe Ria would even grow to like her a little. At the very least she would attempt conversation with her and try to get to know her.

When the prince began to lead the Queens away so they might get their bearings, Ria trailed after them, keeping an appropriate distance. They made their way through the courtyard with a lovely pond, complete with two swans and a couple of children playing games. If Ria didn't know any better she would've thought she'd stepped into a fairytale.

It didn't take long before the tour came to a close as Queen Isabelle found her room and concluded it was time for a rest. Not too surprising, considering they had been on the road for hours and before that they had been on a ship. Her Queen called her into her chambers but before she could turn from the rest of the group, she offered them all a quick smile and then hurried in after her Queen, letting the heavy wooden door close with a thud.

Isabelle wanted a bath. Also not surprising considering the long trip. "Of course, my Queen." She smiled and wasted no time in calling all the maids, insisting that they spare nothing - tonight was the feast after all and that her Queen would want to look and feel her finest and so the woman all came rushing in with scented bath salts, oils, soaps, combs. Everything a Queen could want. Satisfied that they had taken her serious, Ria stepped back to her Queen's side but before she could ask if there was anything else Isabelle would have her do, she was told to go tend to herself. Well, that was a relief. She might finally get to see the rest of the castle. "Thank you, my Queen. It has indeed been a long journey, I will be back in time for the feast but before that I might go explore the castle. I think I would like to stretch my legs a bit." She smiled at Isabelle and then took her leave, stepping back out into the corridor and only just now hoping she wouldn't get lost.

As she roamed through the castle halls, taking note of this turn and that she decided to head out to the stables in hopes that her horse had been comfortably stabled by now. She had insisted that her mount be handwalked or ponied only as she didn't want him to be overtaxed during the long journey. A ride would be pleasant, but the journey had been hours long and even at a walk without bearing a rider she thought he could use a restful night in the stables before being ridden again. She decided that after seeing his current state she would decide whether or not he was fit to ride.

After returning to her room where her things had been finally placed, she rummaged through her trunk and found a pair of breeches, switched out her gown for a deep hunter green one that was much more comfortable, pulled her long hair back into a quick braid like she always did for riding and put on some boots. Not exactly lady-like but she wouldn't mind if these clothes got dirty or torn and she was pretty sure off in the distance somewhere, many miles away that her mother was shrieking in horror at the state of her. The thought brought a smile to Ria's lips. When the maids arrived to tend to her she told them to have a bath waiting for her when she returned within an hour which should give her plenty of time to do whatever she pleased and plenty of time to prepare for the feast tonight.

After making her way outside and getting lost twice on her own, she finally managed to locate after asking a maid. It was a great stone building that must house dozens and dozens of horses. She made her way inside, earning a few curious looks from the groomsmen who must have no idea who she was as she made her way down the aisle, stopping to admire the horses along the way. They all looked fit and healthy. This pleased her, she simply wouldn't stand to have her mount in a place that didn't care for their animals. Finally, she saw her horse. Khan was a large red chestnut, the color of a setting sun and meant to be a hunting horse, young, tall and lean with swift gaits and a hot headed temperament. He was probably never meant to be a girl's horse but he had been a gift from her father when she had turned eighteen last month. He knew how much she loved her horses and how she never liked to ride like a lady and so Khan had been perfect. Her mother had been outraged at the gift, saying a hunting horse was no gift for a lady, but she also knew that her daughter had always loved riding stallions. They were often unpredictable and aggressive but she had always risen to the challenge of riding them. Ria had adored Khan and Khan seemed to appreciate her as well, their personalities matched well. "Ah, there's my handsome boy." She said, grinning as she stepped into the stall. The great red stallion dipped his head to nose her shoulder. "How are you feeling?" The horse looked bright-eyed and energetic enough but the trek had to have taken something out of him even though he was young and fit. Still, perhaps a walk so he could acquainted with his surroundings as could she? That would probably be okay. She called for a stable boy to saddle and groom him, even though she could have done it herself.

When the boy returned with the tack, Ria frowned. The boy was carrying a sidesaddle. Common for ladies to use, but Ria had always despised the contraptions. They were uncomfortable and made it hard to ride the way she did. "Please put that back, I would much prefer a hunting saddle. And don't worry, I can tack him myself but I would like it if you gave me a leg up. He's awfully tall." She said, kindly.

The boy nodded awkwardly and the scurried off. When he returned, he carried a nice, rich brown hunting saddle. Ah, that was much better.


After tacking Khan and swinging up onto his back, she steered him out of the stables and out into the grounds, hearing the click of cobblestones beneath hooves. A ride always cleared her mind and this would also be another way for her to get familiar with the castle. Khan strode forward, his head held high. She patted his smooth neck and looked out at the grounds. It was truly a beautiful place and Ria genuinely hoped she would get acquainted with it soon as she had already gotten lost a few times on foot. As she passed the courtyard, her shoulders relaxed and her mind wandered back to her home in the north. Her father's health was declining and he had fallen ill when she had left. Not surprising for a man his age, but still the news had shocked her and her gut twisted slightly when she knew that her mother was not going to be sorry when he passed. She was going to have to send a letter back home inquiring as to how he was doing. She also wondered how her younger sisters were doing, seeing as they were still at home.

She steered Khan past the entrance to the woods, while the idea tempted her she knew she was going to be running low on time. Actually...Shoot. She saw people beginning to make their way into the castle, probably headed to feast. That meant she must've spent too much time already. She spun Khan around and set off back toward the stables at a smooth, ground eating lope.

She was gratefully Khan had always covered so much ground so quickly. She reached the stables in record time and hastily gave him back to the dazed looking boy as she rushed the words at him. "Care for him well...Cool him off. Oh! And give him something sweet. He's been good." With that, she literally ran back to the castle, almost running right past her room and into the guards in her haste to get into her room and have the maids make her up again. They looked rather mortified at her tousled hair and dirty boots. They did what they could with the time they had and quickly washed her up in water that had already gone cold and dressed her in a rich red gown, encrusted with little black beads shaping what looked like flowers. She also donned elegant rings and a lovely diamond necklace and set her out on her way. As she stepped out into the hall she breathed a sigh of relief as she saw Isabelle making her way down the hall. Thank goodness, I thought I was terribly late... She thought as she followed after her Queen who had made her way into the ballroom.

Amelia walked through the large room putting earrings in normally there would be maids everywhere readying her, but she had decided she wanted to ready herself, and only a few maids were scattered about the room making sure the dress was ready and everything was in place. She sighed slightly as the light wavered in the room from the flickering of the lit candles. Though she wasn't facing the door she knew Isac had returned since the maids had curtsied low to the ground. "You are dismissed." Amelia said to them and they carefully moved past Isac. Amelia turned to face him, she was just in her underdress which was a strapless white thing that was made of silk, the actual dress was laid out on the bed a nice Golden colour. "How did things go with Nathaniel?" She asked going over to collect her gown not knowing is she would dread his answer or not.

Amelia slipped the dress on normally she would have had a maid right behind her quickly doing up the back tightening it just enough, she moved her hair out of the way when Isac came over to her. "Do it up please?" She asked softly, on occasion she would dismiss the maids and have Isac do it for her instead, she found her didn't do them up as tight making the dress more comfortable than they were supposed to be, though a majority of Amelia's dresses were made specifically for her, so she could get away with wearing them looser. "Was he upset that you had him locked in the Dungeon?" She asked looking over her shoulder at Isac, it was a motherly concern, even though Nathaniel needed to learn a lesson she didn't like the idea of either of her children being unhappy. She shifted slightly when Isac finished letting her hair fall back into place as she turned to face him, she put on hand on his cheek gently kissing the other before walking over to the mirror. Amelia expertly pinned pieces of her hair up as Isac started to get ready, she could see him in the mirror. Carefully she placed her crown on her head she took Isac's and placed it on his head.
"There. My handsome King." She said giving him a small playful curtsy and a joy filled laugh. Her nerves had eased considerably once she knew Nathaniel was back in the castle, and though she knew Isac had been angry he was never overly harsh with the boy.

Amelia found as they made their way to the ballroom it seemed Isac had relaxed as Well. They were the first of the royals to arrive which was how it was planned, Isabelle and Damien followed in a little while after, and Amelia saw that after Damien had made sure Isabelle was alright he came over, his dark brown hair in his eyes Amelia gently brushed it away.
"Mother!" He protested with a small smile, but Amelia continued. "I'm not a child anymore you don't need to fix my hair." "It was in your eyes Damien, how are you supposed to do anything if your hair is in your eyes and you can't see? If you don't want me fixing it maybe you should get it trimmed." Amelia heard an amused sound come from Isac, she smiled a little and looked at her son who rolled his eyes not something she saw very often, she sighed fixing one more piece before she was satisfied with it and turned her attention back to the crowd, she still hadn't seen Sinead, and she wasn't sure they would see Nathaniel until later on in the evening.

Isac was proud of the small speech Nathaniel had said, it even brought a small smile to his face. He stood from the chair, pushing it back where it was. He looked at the guard holding the key that stood beside the cell door. "What's your name, guard?" Isac asked. "Uh, it's Guy, your highness." The guard said, a bit nervous and taken aback by the question. "Pleasure to have you with us, Guy. If I may..." Isac pointed to the key. "Oh, yes, my lord." Guy handed over the key. Isac stepped up to the door, glancing up at Nathaniel to see him watching him. An amused look came over Isac's features. "If all you wanted was one last day of freedom, you could have just asked." He said, unlocking the door. "Now, come on. The feast will be starting soon, and you don't want to leave Sinead waiting too long, now do you?" Isac added, holding the door open.

After letting Nathanial out, Isac hastily made his way back up to his chamber. Almost instantly opening the door, he heard Amelia's voice. "How did things go with Nathaniel?[b]" Walking over to his wardrobe to pick out his ball and feast robes, which were a royal red with golden stitching. "It went fairly well. All he wanted was one more day of freedom." He sat his robe on the bed, pulling his sleeves down before helping Amelia with her dress upon request. "[b]Was he upset that you had him locked in the Dungeon?" At that, Isac couldn't help but let out a soft chuckle. "He seemed more amused, even acted as though he thought I'd leave him in their." He finished the tying, and smiled as Amelia turned, planting a soft kiss on his cheek. Then he went about readying himself, changing his clothes into the matching red with gold stitching ones and the over robe. Once he was done, he smiled at himself in the mirror. A spitting image of his late father. His smile grew into a larger, loving one as Amelia place his crown above his head. "There. My handsome King." Isac let out a joyful laugh almost simultaneously with Amelia before heading to the ballroom.

Isac greeted those who were there, stating the feast would begin shortly. Then he saw Damien coming up to him and Amelia. He couldn't help but get an amused look as Amelia treated the well-coming man as a child, pushing the hair out of his face and Damien's protesting. Noticing Damien looking off, most likely in search for his brother, Isac leaned over to him. "Don't worry about Nathaniel, Damien. He'll turn up eventually. You know he can't miss a feast. Plus we're having all your favorites being served. How about instead of wanting to scold you brother you go attend to your future wife, hm?" Isac said, an amused smile on his face.