Forget Me Not

A war had been stirring in Europe. King Fernando and Queen Maria of Spain made an agreement with King Francis of England. Queen Sophia was pregnant and their hope was a baby girl. They were going to betroth their newly born daughter to their young prince. They knew that this union would kill all the goings on of war that were being stirred up.

To their delight and immense relief they had a beautiful baby girl. They named her Rosa for the startling rich color of her lips. They sent word to King Francis of the birth and arrangements were made.

When Rosa was not even a month old she vanished in the night. King Fernando exhausted all of his power in searching for their baby girl without raising anyone's suspicion. When the baby princess wasn't recovered they didn't know what to do. They had made a political contract with England to offer up their daughter in marriage when she was 18.

In a panic they took the advise of one of King Fernando's advisors. The advisor offered up his newly born daughter as replacement. Her mother had died in child birth and he didn't know how to take care of a baby.

In their desperation they accepted and took in Gabriella as their own child. They treated her as they treated their sons and would've treated Rosa. She was in every way a princess of Spain. Unbeknownst to King Fernando and Queen Maria, Gabriella knew every truth about where she came from and who she really was from her father. So between the two they hatched a devious plan that would give them power to both England and Spain and then go on to conquer the rest of Europe.

---

Princess Rosa had been stolen away by the secret devices of the king's advisor. The moment his wife died and he was left with a baby girl he knew what he wanted. He hired a rather shady character who stole away the baby in the night. After that he was going to deliver her far from Spain so there was no hope of her reclaiming her birth right. The only problem was that he lost her along the way.

Rosa was found by a young Duke and his wife. They had discovered that Lillian, Duke Charles wife, was unable to have children. When they found the baby they took her in as their own and named her Emeline.

Emeline was the pride and joy of her parents. Since he was a Duke they were in the higher circle of society and Emeline had a very easy life. She had absolutely everything she could ever want.

When she was a very young child her parents took her to the countryside because of a fever outbreak in London. In the country Emeline met a young boy, Ignacious, who happened to be the young prince of King Francis and Queen Lisbeth.

At the death of their daughter Isabella, the king and queen sent Ignacious away in hopes of preserving his life. When he and Emeline met for the first time they struck up an instant friendship despite the difference in their ages. Ignacious took to Emeline most likely because he had lost his sister. Emeline took quickly to Ignacious because he was older, handsome, and she had never had a real friend before.

The two spent an entire year having adventures in the countryside. Unfortunately their good times couldn't last forever.

Once the terrible fever had run its course and disappeared it was time to take Ignacious back only to send him away to special tutors and travel around so that he could understand what it took to be king one day.

On the day that the two friends had to say goodbye Emeline was devastated. The innocence of their friendship had kept her blind to the horrors that swam around her. Ignacious promised he'd never forget her and that one day they would be friends again.

As a token of his promise he left her with a necklace that had been in his families for as long as anyone could remember. It meant that he would have to come back for it and so he would make his way to her when he could.

Emeline swore that she would hold him to his promise. She knew it wouldn't be difficult since her parents were a duke and duchess. She heard on occasion how the prince was doing and where he was. She thought about him every night until she turned 9 years of age.

On Emeline's ninth birthday her parents died in a freak carriage accident. Something had spooked the horses and the rigging wasn't put together properly. The death of them meant Emeline was left with nothing. She wasn't their biological child which left her with nothing according to the law. Emeline didn't know she was adopted until that day. It had never occurred to her that her lavish black hair and her richly dark eyes didn't fit in with her fair haired parents.

Emeline was turned out from her home with nothing but the clothes she wore and the necklace that lay hidden beneath. Being so young she didn't understand how she was turned out because someone wrote down a law that said it was to go to a cousin of hers.

Living such a posh life had left her with no skills to live by. By the time she was found by Beth, an old maid who worked at the castle, she was almost skin and bone.

After she was found by Beth things took a turn upwards for a while. She had a place to stay, food to eat, and warm clothes on her thin bones. The only cost was that she now worked as a servant in the palace with no direction as where to go. She was once again an orphan with no one to claim her.


Nine years later

"Why is it always the top shelf?" a very distraught servant girl grumbled as she stared up at the empty spot on the book shelf.

Emma had been in charge of the dusting and minor cleaning in the east side of the palace for nearly six months. It seemed that the only books ever read were the ones on the top shelf and always happened to dance just out of her reach.

"I declare!" she grouched as she stretched on her toes as she felt around until she shoved the thick volume in its high place. "Stop laughing you silly books!" she chided to the silent leather bound pieces. "Just because you speak of wonderful places does not mean you were ever there, so you have no right to laugh in my face." She strained as she put the second book away.

"Do you always speak to what you clean?"

"Chloe!" Emma turned around and smiled at her dear friend. "Well I wouldn't speak to them if they would stop mocking me." She laughed jovially.

"Perhaps if you stopped sneaking in passages you wouldn't know where they spoke of and long to go there. Then they wouldn't know the most secret desire of your heart and wouldn't laugh." Chloe countered before putting the last book away.

Chloe was a good couple inches taller than Emma and had no problem placing the books in their rightful place.

"If only I had your reach then this library would be less of a hassle to keep straightened." Emma finished dusting the surfaces before the two girls closed the door and moved off to clean the bedrooms on the east side.

"You heard the news, haven't you?" Chloe asked as they walked down the hall.

"What news?" Emma asked.

"Prince Ignacious is returning home. Apparently his search for education is over and now he prepares for the arrival of his soon to be bride." Chloe giggled a little.

"The Spanish pig? I heard she's terrible!" Emma whispered behind her hand.

"She may be, but she's a princess and she was arranged to marry the prince even before she was born. It's all very delicious." Chloe grinned.

Chloe loved gossip more than anything else. She thrived off of it. If there were ever any news, of any kind, Chloe always knew what it was and made it her civic duty to inform everyone she could find that would give her an ear.

Emma merely shook her head and toyed with the necklace that hung around her neck. She knew it wasn't from her parents, or it would've been taken from her, but she could hardly remember who gave it to her.

Sometimes she dreamt of a handsome young boy handing it to her and making her a fervent promise to return to her. Then when she woke she knew it was foolishness. Everyone she had tried to tell when she first came to the castle didn't believe her. Then dear Beth had told her that he was probably an imaginary friend and that the men who turned her out allowed her to keep the piece of jewelry.

Beth argued it was probably her mother's, but Emma doubted. Her mother was Duchess Lillian Ricketts. The initials on the pendant of the necklace didn't match. Emma even wondered if they were initials as they often looked to be a sort of insignia if held in the right light.

"I suppose it's time to air out his highness's room then?" Emma said after they had finished with one hall of rooms.

"Yes, and let Minnie Hamish let her curls get in a knot, because his room is our's to clean." Chloe's eyes were rather prideful.

Minnie Hamish was the most snootiest servant Emma had ever known. For a girl who cleaned the waste of royals, she sure acted like one. Minnie had been the first one to make Emma feel unwelcome in the castle when she first arrived and didn't know how to do a single chore. Of course it was then Chloe who was the first to stand up for Emma and caused Minnie to back down.

"What good is it for you to clean the prince's room when you'll never see him?" Emma raised her brow as they entered the quiet room. Not hardly a soul had stepped foot inside the room since the prince had been sent away after the death of his sister.

"Bragging rights." Chloe grinned as she and Emma began to change the old bedding.

"Let's hope he's not some arrogant pig like his spanish princess." Chloe winked at Emma which caused Emma to roll her eyes.

The on going war in the depths of Europe had begun to depress King Francis and his wife, Queen Lisbeth, both who reign over England. The very thought of their country being terrorized by unwelcomed vistiors only made his year-long headaches transform into agnozing migraines. Though what could he do to prevent such a thing that seemed as if it were unstoppable?

The Spaniards.

In just the bit of any hope King Francis had left in him, he was informed by Spain's king, Fernando, that his wife was with child which in hopes would turn out to be a girl. King Francis's excitement skyrocketed England, and he couldn't express his emotion. He grew into the idea of signing a contract agreement with Spain as an ally, so both countries could come to each other's advisory during these dark times of war and death.

The contract agreement equally added up. Upon hearing the news of Queen Maria's pregnancy, it was the actual idea of Francis's wife to agree to the proceeding of Fernando's consequences. King Francis happily forced himself to negotiate with King Fernando, which resulted in sacrificing his own three-year-old son, Ignacious, to the marriage of Maria's unborn child. Though Francis kept sure that the contract would still be in agreement if the unborn child was not a girl. He made sure to make Fernando promise that Maria would have as much children as she could until she bore a girl for his own son.

With much luck, Francis had been advised that not only had Maria given birth to a girl in which they had named Rosa, but the contract was now sealed by the very pen of Fernando's signature. When the girl was of eighteen years old, she would be the new wife of Ignacious. The on-going war was slowly beginning to come to a sure hault.

However, Francis and Lisbeth would never discover Fernando and Maria's dark secret.

Over the years, Francis and Lisbeth kept in touch with Fernando and Maria. They would describe their daughter as the most beautiful girl ever to be born in Spain. Francis did not deny any doubt that came from them. He hadn't seen the girl and would not be able to meet her until she was of eighteen. In that meantime, Francis had his own problems to worry about. His son was becoming of mature age and would soon have to obtain knowledge in reigning over England, and his wife had also given birth to their second child.

The war continued to ravish through Europe, but it was not done so violently. Bloodshed continued to spread, but Francis was positive that the marriage of his son and Spain's beauty would ultimately stop the hate. However, all of that hope seemed to crash whenever his daughter, Isabella, had contracted the fever that broke out in London. Her death played an unpleasant role, but not one being was more affected than Prince Ignacious. Her death meant his every fiber, and now that his beloved sister was gone - he had no use in London.

To make an attempt of stripping her son's grief, Queen Lisabeth would often take her son into the open and beautiful countryside. She had figured that he needed closure in his time of mourning, and the countryside would surely help him rekindle his happiness. Ignacious soon grew custom to that countryside in which he would practically beg on his knees to his mother for her to allow him to go. His countryside days were spent with laughter and relaxation, but that was before he met the girl.

Emeline Ricketts was by far the most beautiful girl he'd ever met. Though he was twelve at the time and she only nine, he couldn't help to think that no other girl to match up to her. Then again, another part of him loved being with her was because she reminded him so much of his deceased sister. Like Emeline, Ignacious had never truly experienced the matter of friendship. She had become his newfound friend, and he would always be forever grateful.

However, good things do not always last. That same year, the same fever that seized his sister had ulimately come back for more victims. King Francis and Queen Lisabeth were frantic and immediately took Ignacious away from the countryside. More pain struck him harder because he knew he would have to leave Emeline behind. Before he left, his parents explained to him that studies would now become a huge part in his young life. His father explained that he would need enough knowledge to know how to rule a kingdom, and he was to do that in Paris, France, where he had prive tutors already awaiting the young prince's arrival.

Ignacious had grown back to mourning. He returned to the countryside one last time in order to break the horrible news to Emeline. However, before he had met her there, he had snuck into his parents' chamber and took a piece of jewelry that hung from his mother's vanity. It was a diamond necklace that was engraved with unfamiliar initials that the young prince had never heard of. He'd stolen it for one purpose - rememberance.

Feeling heartbroken and crushed, Ignacious gave his family's necklace to Emeline. He had made a vow to never forget her and to return to her when his studies would be over. He swore that he would come back looking for her just as long as the necklace shown brightly around her neck.

And that was the last time Ignacious ever saw Emeline. He retreated to France, where his mentors filled his head with monarchy and the midst of power. Since his first arrival in France, the memory of Emeline slowly began to fade away.

________________________________________________________________________________

It had taken nine years. Nine long, miserable years.

Prince Ignacious of England was finally returning home after nine years of nothing but books, maps, lectures, and annoying mentors telling him what he could and could not do. He was finally twenty-one years old, fit to be a full grown adult.

He was built pretty big, standing around six-foot-three and weighing a whopping two-hundred and thirty-five pounds. His mentors did not only train him mentally, but he was forced to train physically. He could not look like a scrawny bird in the face of a demeaning tyrant of another country. He was still just as handsome as the French women described and even though he knew he would soon be married once he returned home - he was not faithful.

Ignacious now sat in a carriage, returning back to his old home. His emerald green eyes scanned the land, trying to get the familiar feeling back into his soul. Being around France for so long, the fields and hills kind of depressed him.

"What are you so down about now, Iggstad?" his French companion, Jerard, asked him. Jerard had been his only friend formed while Ignacious had been swallowed up in France. Jerard was the son of one of Ignacious's mentors. They were the same age and had met while Ignacious had stolen an apple at a cart in town, and Jerard had just so happened to get the poor English boy out of misery from both the cart owner and his mentor of the day.

Ever since then, the two had been unseparable. However, upon hearing his nickname for Jerard, he slowly turned his head to look into the Frenchmen's eyes. "I'm not down," Ignacious said to him, "I'm just a bit nervous. Can I not be nervous for returning home?"

Jerard arched an eyebrow. "You have hardly spoke during this trip! Have you gone mute, Iggstad?"

Ignacious could only roll his eyes. "I just told you why I've been so mute. You, however, have not shut your trap ever since we left Paris!"

"Well, excuse me, your highness," Jerard said with the slightest smirk, "but if I don't say something, I'll drive myself mad. Lighten up, you English fool."

Though how could he cheer up? He was returning back home after long years of studying and soon had to meet his soon-to-be-bride of whom he'd never met before in his life. He had heard of Spain's princess over the years in the letters of his parents. They had not described much of her. All he knew was that her name was Gabriella, and they were forced to marry for their family's sake.

That did not go so well with Ignacious. He had once refused to marry the girl and stopped writing to his parents for nearly six months. It wasn't until his daily mentor had reasoned with him that he should marry the girl, then no pressure would be enforced while he was king. Ignacious could not argue with his mentor, so he sent a letter to his parents about finally agreeing to marry the girl for the reasons he hated.

"We are almost there, Iggstad," Jerard spoke in Ignacious's train of thought. "Shouldn't you be preparing?"

"Perparing for what? One of those boring speeches?" Ignacious rolled his eyes once more.
"Talk about how excited you are for your new Spanish bride," Jerard chuckled. "I'm sure that will get your parents high of your spirits, oui?"

With a heavy sigh, Ignacious shot Jerard a menacingly look. "I do not want to talk about her at all until the actual day of this dreaded wedding."

Jerard placed a hand on his English companion's shoulder. "At least try and look chipper for your family, Iggstad. You do not want to have any problems with them. Especially not today!"

Ignacious could only sigh once more. His friend was right - his parents didn't need this. They did not deserve his crude attitude towards any of it, but what else could he feel? He had heard in the great vine that this Spanish princess was hardly an angel, and he had to hear that from travellers! How could he live with such a woman?

However, his train of that was yet again interrupted. "Nous sommes ici, Iggstad!" Jerard's booming voice erupted.

Upon hearing this, Ignacious could see his old family castle come into view. He saw what appeared to be his parents standing at the front gate, along with a crowd of citizens standing around the entrance. The carriage had finally come to a stop. After nine years of knowledge forced into his brain, he would finally embrace the power of becoming the king of England....with a bride to follow it.

Taking a deep breath, he exhaled as his door had been opened. Slowly, he reached out one leg and planted it firmly on the ground below.

Here goes nothing. Happy homecoming, Ignacious.

The next day the entire host of the castle and several citizens had gathered to the front of the castle to greet their long awaited prince. Emma was reluctant to go as she had the day off for the celebration. Chloe had managed to convince her to come along and possibly get a glimpse of their handsome prince.

"For once I hope the traveling rumors are true." Chloe stated as she stood on her toes to look passed a large man.

"You always want the gossip to be true." Emma accused.

"Not as much as this tidbit. Wouldn't it be terrible for him to be ugly, or fat? We are the ones who clean up after him." Chloe said.

"But we are never meant to be seen Chloe, so how do you expect to spy on him?" Emma asked as trumpets sounded the approach of His Royal's coach.

"I have my ways," Chloe's eyes had a glint in them.

"You are ridiculous," Emma sighed in defeat. "I'm going to go now, so just tell me how incredible he looks if you manage to glimpse him past this crowd." Emma didn't have a chance to leave as Chloe snatched her arm.

"We'll see about that." Chloe shoved her way through the crowd determinedly with Emma in tow.

Emma struggled as the bodies crushed around her. Chloe was eccentric when it came to these sorts of things. Emma wouldn't be surprised if she got trampled on behalf of Chloe.

All of the jostling and shoving through the crowd had loosened the pendant around her neck. It hung freely and visible as they had managed to come to the front of the crowd just as the coach stopped. Emma had no choice but to stay then and wait.

A herald announced the prince and the coach was opened. The servants and citizens were held back by soldiers as the king and queen swept forward to greet their son.

Emma stood rigid as he emerged. He was a very handsome man and behind his rich clothes and the proper way he held himself, Emma saw he raw emotions hanging just behind his incredibly green eyes.

"Oh he's a dream!" Chloe sighed dreamily as the romantic in her was stirred. "Don't you agree?" she glanced Emma's way only to see Emma disconnected from the moment. "Are you all right Emma?" Chloe turned her full attention back to Emma.

"I know those eyes," she mumbled and tried to get a better look at the prince.

He was tall and striking indeed, but he was familiar to Emma in a way she hadn't known before. It felt like he was an older version of a child she knew from a different life. She felt frustrated as he wasn't facing her way and she couldn't see his face. As the royal party began to retreat into the castle, Emma finally turned away.

"Where are you going?" Chloe called over the crowd as Emma wound her way through. Emma gave no response as she was too dazed in her thoughts. She needed to clear her head and the only place she found solace was in the library she cleaned.

Emma moved through the castle to her east side. With the excitement over Prince Ignacious's return she was less likely to be caught skimming through the pages of a book. Servants weren't allowed to read, and most simply couldn't.

Once she reached the library she tucked the necklace underneath the collar of her dress and plucked a book from the shelf. She moved to her window where it had the best light and was out of sight of the door. She wasn't sure how to process the thoughts in her mind and so she immersed herself into the book until she was unaware of all else.

As soon as Ignacious's other foot touched the ground, the crowed roared with high cheers and ear-splitting whistles. London itself seemed increasingly satisfied to see its soon-to-be king finally come home. No matter how much warmth Ignacious was supposed to feel, he just couldn't grasp the excitement. He hadn't been surely happy in France, but he hadn't been home for nearly five minutes, and he was already wanting to go back to Paris and hide underneath his bedsheets.

Jerard had accompanied his side while they walked along to the entrance, where Ignacious could see his mother and father. Both of them were standing so stiffly, he feared that they would break a bone if they tried to move. "Be positive, Iggstad," Jerard whispered as they walked. "Do not let them see that you are unsettled."

But he was. The expression on his face surely didn't show it, but deep down, his stomach was rumbling. He hadn't had much of an appetite all day, but his stomach was disagreeing with him. The continuation of the roaring crowd began to suddenly annoy him. So, they have already seen him get out of the carriage, what more did they want?

When Ignacious and Jerard reached Francis and Lisbeth, the king slowly held up a hand. As he did so, the entire crowd seemed to grow mute. Ignacious thought of it creepy, but didn't really pay any attention. His eyes followed his father's hand and grew interest. In just an upbringing of his father's arm could control so many people. Oh, yes, it did intrigue him.

"Citizens of London!" King Francis shouted. "We dearly appreciate your presence on this glorified day! The day that our son, heir to England, soon to be your king, Ignacious has returned home!"

The crowd then burst into cheers once more. The roaring seemed to never stop going in Ignacious's ears. His mind was rampaging through with unpleasant thoughts, and Jerard was the first one to notice by his companion's pain-stricken eyes. He, too, watched Ignacious's father slowly bring down his hand. Both of the monarchy rulers turned their heels and guided the two men into the castle. As they walked, Ignacious could still hearing the ringing of the crowd's unnecessary excitement.

The guards kept a close heel on the four. Just as they entered the castle, Ignacious could already sense the sea of people to get wild and hectic. He would often glance out of the corner of his eye to get a glimpse of what exactly he would be ruling. These people were all too frantic but on what? His arrival to England? It was just bizarre.

Jerard thought differently. Ignacious glanced over to his friend, seeing his face beamed at the excitement. Sometimes Ignacious would even question why the two were friends. Jerard was undoubtly the exact opposite of Ignacious. Unlike his built figure, Jerard was very skinny with light hair that did not match to his English companion's dark hair. Jerard also had a laid back personality that was spiced with giddy-ness. Certanily not like Ignacious who had been described as sarcastic, often rude, and grim.

"You'd think this would have been a celebration for you," Ignacious whispered as Jerard waved at the crowd. "Why don't you be Ignacious for a day?"

Jerard turned his head to him. "You, my friend, are an ass, but as much as it sounds just wonderful to be you for a day, I just cannot simply take your offer."

Jerard's sarcasm was to be expected. He slightly chuckled at the Frenchman's response and continued to follow his parents into the lounge hall. When they all were finally in safely, the guards shut the door behind them. The two men stopped while Lisbeth instantly turned around and practically threw herself at her son. It took a moment for Ignacious to regain himself from almost falling over. Even though his mother was a short woman, she surely had the power to make him stumble.

"My Ignacious is home!" Lisbeth cried. "God has answered my prayers!"

King Francis placed his hand on his wife's shoulder. "Easy, Lisbeth," he said to her. "Let the boy breathe, why don't you?"

Lisbeth chuckled as she mumbled a sorry to her husband. She removed herself from her son, taking in what he had become. She was excited to see how he'd turned out while in France, but she was also heartbroken. The image of her twelve-year-old son was no longer apart of her reality. What stood before her was a grown man, now ready to face any challenge England might give him.

"You there, French boy!" Francis said, taking his hand off his wife's shoulder. "You must be Jerard, eh? You are Peter's boy, yes?"

Jerard slightly bowed to Francis. "Oui, your highness, that would be me."

"It's such a pleasure to welcome you into our home," Lisbeth said to him. "Ignacious has told us much about you. It is wonderful to know that our son did not perish alone in France."

The two let out a laugh. Jerard gave his gratitude by reaching for Lisbeth's hand and kissing it. It was proper greeting in France, and he hoped that was what they would take it for. Ignacious, however, had not said a word. "Something wrong, my dear?" Lisbeth asked him.

"Hm?" Ignacious had now come back into focus. "Oh, no, I'm just tired from that long trip. Would it be alright if I rest up a bit?"

Jerard shot him a look, but Ignacious chose to ignore it. He wasn't particularly lying to his mother; the carriage ride there had been hell. However, he also just wanted time to himself and to absorb his surroundings.

"Oh, of course!" Francis said, signaling for one of his servants to come forth. "How ignorant I am. You should rest, son, for tonight, we are to have a dinner in purpose of your arrival home."

A dinner? Oh, how wonderful.

Francis instructed that the servant take Jerard to his room, along with retreating both of the men's belongings. He whistled for more of his trusted servants to come forth. Especially one he trusted so well, and the very fact that she was the first one to catch his eye.

"You there, Chloe!" Francis barked. "Gather some of the other girls and guide Ignacious to his room. Be sure to follow his every command and do not question him! Is that understood?"

Ignacious kissed his mother and firmly hugged his father before being oddly introduced to these servant girls.

Chloe hadn't put up much of a fuss when Emma had left quickly. She wondered why she had left but the excitement of Prince Ignacious's arrival shoved her concerned thoughts to the dusty corner of her mind.

Many of the servants quickly returned to the castle while the citizens strained their necks and hoped to see their future ruler one last time as he entered the castle with his parents.

Unlike Emma, Chloe did not have the day off. In fact, Chloe had offered to not take the day off as many of the lesser servants had been granted it off. She knew Emma thought this was all silliness and had accepted the day without a second thought.

By the time Chloe had come to stand in the background of the lounge hall the royal family had just entered. Chloe knew all too well that servants were seen and never heard unless addressed. She found it difficult to keep herself quiet as the prince was much more attractive at this close angle. The man with him, who she learned was Jerard, was also a well man to look at and had a french accent lacing his words.

The reunion between the family was sweet to see. Chloe had very little experience with the queen and was surprised to see her show so much emotion as she clung to her son who was quite a bit taller than she was.

It wasn't long before the king was instructing the servants to show the men to their quarters. Chloe hid her smirk as she watched Minnie get stuck with the frenchmen and was positively giddy as the king called her forward. Chloe curtsied and kept her calm composure as he asked her to take the prince himself to his room.

"Yes, your highness," she spoke humbly before she turned and curtsied to the prince.

Chloe only needed one other servant to assist her. She knew Emma would be skeptical and probably irritated to be bothered on this glorious free day. Despite her small fear for Emma's temper it was overruled by the fact that the prince was now in Chloe's care and there was only one girl she wanted to share this moment with.

"Sire, if you'll follow me," Chloe dipped her head politely as she spoke softly to the prince. She turned and left the room as she led the prince out.

Chloe was grateful she knew Emma well. It would be rather humiliating to waste time traipsing all over the castle in search for her. She knew there was only one place Emma truly loved to be even though it was very off limits to servants.

"I hope your trip was well your highness, you'll find that the castle is a friendly place and it will be better now that you have returned." Chloe's words were quiet and quite the opposite of her excitable manner.

They moved down the long and well lit halls of the castle until they came to the large double doors of the library.

"If you'll excuse me for just a moment, sire," Chloe curtsied before she entered the room silently.

At first glance there wasn't a soul in the room. Chloe knew much better than that as she spotted a book missing from its spot on the shelf.

She moved into the room quietly and looked about until she saw Emma perched by the window with her brow pulled together in concentration. Chloe grinned and snuck up close to Emma.

"There you are!" Chloe said in an excitable whisper. "I need your help right now," she grinned.

Emma was startled as she hadn't heard Chloe enter the room. The thick volume in her hands fell and made a rather loud thud against the floor as she looked rather startled.

"Not today Chloe," Emma glared at Chloe as she picked up the book and brushed it off.

"Oh, certainly today my dear," Chloe kept her voice low. She hoped the prince wouldn't wander off and wouldn't be curious enough to look into the library and see what she was up too. The longer she spent arguing with Emma the more she risked the prince intruding on their conversation.

"Why is that?" Emma finished brush off the book before she moved to the book case and replaced it.

"Because right outside those doors is a handsome prince under my care and you're the only one I wanted to recruit in waiting on him hand and foot." Chloe was lit up with excitement.

Emma's face drained of color and she took a small step backwards. The person who was causing her so much grief was right outside the door. She couldn't place him and the familiarity was starting to freak her out.

"I can't," Emma looked rather ill.

"Oh yes you will," Chloe narrowed her eyes. "Just think about the look on Minnie's face and you'll be just fine." Chloe took a strong hold of Emma's arm and pulled her towards the door.

Emma felt her stomach get lost somewhere behind her as they exited the library and closed the door behind them.

Right before her stood the heir to the English throne. He certainly looked immeasurably more attractive up close and the strange feeling she had was washed away as she became speechless in his presence.

"Your highness, this is Emma, we both will be at your assistance for anything you need." Chloe gave another of her curtsies. She glanced at Emma out of the corner of her eye and stepped on her toe when she hadn't curtsied.

Emma was jolted from her thoughts as Chloe's foot squashed her toe. She curtsied very awkwardly which loosened the necklace hidden around her neck. As she came out of the curtsy she stared Prince Ignacious directly in the eye for a moment before she remembered her place and looked to the ground with a flushed face.

"Your highness," she mumbled feeling like an idiot. She was going to let Chloe have it later. How dare Chloe introduce her when she was so unprepared and felt so vulnerable.

"We will show you to your room now, your highness," Chloe smiled brightly while her eyes were worriedly drawn to Emma. Something was wrong with Emma, and Chloe could clearly see that now.

The two girl's set off down the hall. Chloe held her head confidently and her long legs took easy strides forward. Emma on the other hand was struggling to keep pace with Chloe as her legs were not as long and her mind was reeling. She didn't know the prince, but his eyes spoke a different story and it was bothering her a great deal.

When instructed to follow the girl, Ignacious said nothing. He looked at her with his typical stern face, but before Chloe had the chance to direct him away from the lounge, Ingacious turned his head to watch another servant girl take away his friend. Jerard shot him a worried yet reassuring look in which hopes that this day wouldn't turn out so bitter. Ignacious gave firm nod to him and let the girl take him to his room.

Ignacious kept a clear distance behind the girl. With his hands behind his back, his long legs firmly planted the ground in each step he took. He really didn't know what to do at that point. It was clear that he was bored of all the hospility, but trying to strike a conversation with the girl would only downgrade his status. Did he have any other choice? He chose to keep his mouth and his head slightly lowered, but his eyes perked when he heard her address him.

At the kind gesture of his arrival, Ignacious slowly lifted his head and let out a rather small sigh. "It was decent, nonetheless," his firm voice approached. "Thank you for your kindness."

The dim halls seemed so familiar to Ignacious. The prince managed to glance at them with such rememberance that it would have been foolish not to. Yet he knew that she was not in the right direction of his childhood bedroom. Instead, she had brought him to two large double doors that sat stiffly among the halls. An eyebrow arched as Ignacious looked at Chloe with confusion.

That was when the girl told him to wait. His eyebrows lifted as he watched the girl escape into the doors. With his eyebrows still lifted, the doors finally shut, and he was free to relax before seeing her re-appear. On the left side of him, he lazily leaned on the sill of the window. His mucles were beginning to ache from the days-long carriage ride, and waiting was only beginning to annoy him.

You had better have a good reason to make me wait, servant girl. My paitence is running thin, and my tolerance for you is becoming dry.

Ignacious cursed at himself. How could he think so cruely of the girl? She was certainly a decent young lady, and he was already blowing smoke out of his nose. Then again, she was told to take him to his room - not make him stand in front of a library for God only knows how long.

The pain in his neck lifted. He was still leaning on the window sill before he slowly brought his hand up to his neck and massaged it thoroughly. The tension in his neck was by far the most painful part of the day, and he was becoming rather annoyed. However, it wasn't before long where the double doors instantly opened, and he lazily regained his stance.

When Chloe had emerged, Ignacious could see that she had gathered up yet another servant girl, this one by the name of Emma. Confusion instantly struck him. He directly looked into her dark eyes while his face twisted in a confused expression.

Emma...didn't I used to know one of those? Perhaps it was just one of those French girls?

Ignacious cursed at himself once more. His mind was beginning to play tricks on him, and his annoyance was turning into irritation. He shook his head from the thought and played his kind role of a prince.

"Pleasure to meet you, Emma," he said to her; his voice had never been so smooth.

He couldn't think of his smoothness for long. He silently watched Chloe trample the poor girl's foot in rage of humiliation. He smirked, watching his new servant girl ultimately drained the color right out of her face. She did look ill to him, and that was beginning to bother him. Chloe had then directed him away from the library and guided him to his room. However, during the way, he found himself simply intrigued with Emma. He was certainly positive that he had never met the girl in his entire life, but why did she seem so...familiar?

Ignacious had to stop. He felt as if he had continued staring at her, he would certainly burn a hole in the back of her head. When they had finally reached his room, he placed a hand on the lock of the door. He forced a half-smile at both of the girls before turning the lock to perch the door slightly open. Yet he couldn't just leave them without a proper goodbye.

"I thank you girls," he said calmly. He forced himself to smile wider as his eyes laid on Chloe's face. He slightly bowed at her beckoning of showing him to his room. When his eyes were then on Emma's face, the familiarity only burned his mind.

Ignacious no longer felt like he was in the room. All he could invision was this servant girl. He couldn't figure out why he was so drawn to her, and it was starting to become painful. He had to force himself to lock himself away in his room and fast, but it was like he had frozen still.

Ignacious could no longer bear the feeling. "Do I know you from somewhere?" he asked Emma, staring into her eyes. "Forgive me for being so abrupt, but you seem so familiar. Perhaps I'm just exhausted and my mind is playing with me. That happens from time to time."

He had to swiftly kick himself from rambling. He already knew that it was going to be long day.

Emma was rather surprised as the prince bothered to address her. She was going to get Chloe later for putting her in this odd situation. There was one thing that was unmistakable about the way the prince spoke. Before Chloe had noticed his slightly annoyed and clipped tone. When he spoke to Emma his words were smooth and almost kind.

The walk to the room was awful for Emma. She could feel him staring at the back of her and it unnerved her. On top of that she couldn't shake the feeling that they knew each other some how.

The two servant girls turned around to face the prince once they arrived at his room. They both curtsied as he thanked them.

"If ever you require anything, then Emma or I will be more than happy to assist you, your highness," Chloe had a sweet smile on her face before she turned to Emma so they could go.

Emma was struck still as Prince Ignacious hadn't retreated into his room. She felt the air fall silent in her body as he asked her if they knew one another. She was glad to know that she wasn't imagining this feeling and that he felt it as well. She didn't understand what it meant.

"I think that perhaps you do," Emma's voice sounded oddly detached as she stared openly trying to place him. Chloe nudged her and Emma flushed pink. "Your highness," she added quickly in respect.

Chloe looked between the two and easily saw what they were struggling to discover. The two may not quite remember who the other was or how they had known them, but their bodies told a different story.

Emma was always guarded when she spoke to anyone other than Chloe. After being turned out at the age of 9, she had learned to keep her mouth shut and never trust a soul. Emma had lost her parents not only by their death, but when she learned that they had adopted her. Her world had been flipped entirely upside down and this left her with scars.

Chloe turned her attention to Prince Ignacious and saw that his body was relaxed despite his long journey. He had seemed very stiff and proper from the lounge room up until the library. Both Emma and the prince were facing one another and Chloe knew that despite their faded memories that they had known one another before.

"I'm so sorry, you are probably tired and need rest from your journey," once Emma realized the silence hanging in the air and that she had been staring at him rather hard she was uncomfortable. "Please excuse my intrusive behavior, your highness." Emma dipped another curtsy before turning to leave with Chloe.

The two girls walked away from the prince. Chloe stared at Emma with a very intrigued look. Emma talked very little about where she came from before she arrived at the castle. Chloe had never pushed her much for information but the gossip inside of her was clawing at her insides.

"What was that all about?" she whispered giddily.

Emma was silent once more as she fingered the pendant around her neck. He felt that he knew her in return. It was undeniable between the two. There was a part deep inside of her that was rejoicing at the sight of him and felt elated that he was there. This part was confusing for Emma and she didn't understand it. The eagerness she felt scared her.

"Let me alone Chloe," Emma's eyes were distant as her words were soft. "I just need to think, I'll see you later." Emma turned from Chloe and walked away.

She racked her mind and was forcing herself to recall his face. She had stopped thinking about her life before the castle and didn't want to revisit the pain.

Now that the prince had returned and left her feeling as though she had forgotten something very important, she had decided that he must've been from that part of her life. Even as she tried to recall him she found it increasingly difficult. It felt as though she was trying to catch smoke.

Emma moved outside and walked the extensively lavish grounds. The gardeners kept the gardens and the lawns well groomed and beautiful. On the rare truly sunny day she wished that she could spend more time outside.

As she wound her way through one of the smaller gardens her eyes caught a plant that had small blue flowers. She felt the wind rush out as she bent to pick one of the tiny flowers. She knew this flower as it had grown in the countryside she had spent over a year.

Emma held the flower in her hand and felt a memory rush to the surface.

"What's that you're holding?" a young Emma asked a boy who held a small bundle of little blue flowers.

"Forget-me-nots," the boy replied as he turned his startling green eyes to look at the girl.

The boy was a couple years older than the young girl. Though the two acted as though there was no difference at all.

"Who are they for?" Emma asked.

"My mother, she's been terribly sad here," he said with his own sadness reflecting out.

Emma was quiet after that. She knew why he was sad and why his mother was sad. His younger sister had died.

"This is for you," the boy perked up quickly and placed one of the delicate blue flowers in her black hair. The blue stood stark against the dark color but was a lovely contrast with her pale skin and rosy lips.

Emma merely laughed and the two quickly ran from the field of wild flowers back up to one of the estates.

Emma felt the memory wash through her and she moved to sit down. She stared at the little blue flower and knew that there was a connection between her memory and Prince Ignacious. She didn't know what the connection was and it frustrated her more.

She played the memory over and over in her head hoping that it would stir up any other forgotten memories. She let out a frustrated huff as she had no more success.

The sun continued to fall slowly in the sky until it had dipped low on the horizon. Emma had picked handful of the blue forget-me-not flowers as well as some other wild flowers before she returned to the castle. She knew that by now dinner was being served and that Prince Ignacious wouldn't be close to his room.

Emma hadn't been able to shake her feelings and her mind drifted back to how stressed and irritated the prince had been. It seemed that this transition was difficult and Emma couldn't blame him. She had always expected that he would be perfect and the spitting image of his father. It had never crossed her mind that he got stressed and worried.

The east side of the castle was quiet as the dining hall was located further away. Emma came to his room and opened the door quietly. She was relieved to notice that he was not inside and moved quickly into the room before shutting the door behind her.

Emma had retrieved a vase and filled it with water. Once inside Prince Ignacious's room she moved to the desk on the far wall that was beneath a large window. The hangings had been drawn shut. Emma set the vase down and the bundle of flowers so that she could open the drapes. The light flooded the room and gave it a warm atmosphere.

She placed the vase on the desk where it would receive morning sun. She proceeded to arrange the flowers in the glass until they were spilling over the lip. They smelled sweet and Emma smiled. She hoped that perhaps this might at least cheer the prince up from his long journey and the new journey laid before his feet.

Once she finished with the flowers she turned to leave the room. She felt a bit better after placing them in the room. She didn't understand it why she felt better or that it would even matter to the prince. All she cared about was that she had remembered a young boy who had given her her own forget-me-not a long time ago.

Ignacious wasted no time rushing into his childhood bedroom. He quickly shut the door behind him, not even thinking twice about turning back around and continuing to stare at the dark-haired girl. He waited a few moments before he knew for certain that both of the servant girls had disappeared completely. He backed up against the door, sliding down the surface every so carefully. Once he hit the bottom, his sigh seemed to echo the room.

He brought his knees up, resting an arm on top of them. He felt a mere headache form in the base of his skull, and this only frustrated him. Was it all because of that girl? He tried to convince himself that it was his mind messing with him, and that he would soon recover once he had a decent sleep. Then again, Ignacious knew that none of that would happen; he hardly ever slept well.

It wasn't before long he found himself sitting in that same position for quite some time. He had spaced out into his own visions when they were rudely interuppted by the vibration of someone banging violently against his bedroom door.

"Iggstand, are you in there?" Damn you, Jerard. "Iggstad, for God's sakes, open up the door!"

Ignacious groaned as he regained his posture, standing back up. His bones were aching and cracked when he tried to straighten them out. He shook his head, for he was only twenty-one years of age, and his body was already acting like an old French elder. He straightened out his suit and tried to smooth his hair before slowly reaching his hand to turn the knob. As soon as the door opened, Jerard forcefully dragged the prince out of his own room.

Ignacious caught himself before almost falling over. "Jerard! What the hell are you so worked up about?!"

Jerard could only laugh at his expense. "Relax, princy boy," he said trying to help his friend from becoming floor meat. "You look disgruntled from when those servant girls took you away. I figured I'd show up and help you lighten up. You weren't sleeping were you, Iggstad?"

Ignacious groaned and shook his head.

"Excellente!" cried the chipper Frenchman. "You've been cooped up in your room for quite some time. Why not show your friend your own home?"

Ignacious could not ignore his friend's energetic personality. He half-smiled at Jerard before deciding that he would indeed show him around - even if he didn't know where he was going anyway. "Alright, Jerard, but if you get lost on the way, I won't be around to save your sorry French self."

However, Jerard ignored Ignacious's comment. The two men drifted into the castle, Jerard having Ignacious explain almost everything in sight. Ignacious surely surprised himself as he could remember every piece of painting or artifact that hung in his parents' home. He had been gone for nine years and yet his memory was extraordinary. Jerard seemed to be impress, too, as he awed over the English arts. Ignacious could only laugh at his friend's delight. He'd known Jerard had never been out of France in his entire existance - which is why he brought him along.

They found themselves in the main lounge of the castle before both of the men saw servants running rampid. Both male and female servants were juggling dishes, pots, and even the slightest amount of small foods.

"It must be dinner time," Jerard said while his eyes beamed. "Certainly about time, I am starving."

Ignacious looked over at his friend, and he could have been made sure that he saw him drooling. Shaking his head, Ignacious decided it was time for the both of them to retreat back to their rooms in order to prepare for tonight's dinner. Ignacious bid Jerard goodbye as he made his way back to his room. The dimmed room would make a normal prince somewhat unsettled and discomforting. However, in Ingnacious's case, he found it quite relaxing.

Opening the door, he stepped inside and instantly got struck with a familiar aroma. He closed the door gently and followed the scent that lead him to his desk. He could see the blue wildflowers sitting comfortably in a vase that titled toward the window. He arched an eyebrow at the scene. He looked around the room incase an intruder had come while he was not present. However, the smell of the flowers brought his attention to look back at their marvelous beauty.

That was when the memory hit him.

Ignacious remembered his grieving years over the sudden fact of his sister's death. He also felt a stinging sensation in his chest by the very face of his departed sister, Isabella. Then again, he rememered a black-haired child whose face shown brightly in his mind. He had no idea who she was and could not remember anything about her. His heart skipped a beat.

"Forget-me-nots," he said aloud.

Horrified, Ignacious backed away from the vase. He continued to stare at them with such taste. Who had put them there? That was a question even he could not come up with an answer. When his heart had begun to settle down a bit, he walked over to the vase once more and analyzed the flowers. Who would have thought a wildflower would have made his heart melt with warmth?

At that point, he heard the dinner bell ring down the hall. He looked back to see if anyone would try and knock on his door. When no one came, (not even Jerard), he stripped himself from his traveling clothes and replaced them with his evening outfit. When he had finished, Ignacious took one last look at the wildflower. With frustration growing in his chest, he isntantly took one of the flowers and placed it gently in his suitpocket. Examining himself in his mirror, he saw that he indeed looked ravishing, but nothing was as ravishing as the blue flower that gave his suit some life.

The dinner bell continued to ring, and Ignacious knew he could no longer waste anymore time. He strode out of his room, turning his head from side to side, checking both ends of the hallway before finally retreating to the dining lounge. The aroma and memory followed behind him.

After Emma had returned from placing the flowers in the prince's room she couldn't keep her thoughts straight. They wandered back to the memory and the boy who had seemed to give her such a great friendship. The feelings were more persistent than ever which was the reason Emma decided work was the best to block out her troubled mind.

The kitchen was quite the circus as servants and cooks dashed about preparing the grand feast for the prince's return. Emma hadn't spent a whole lot of time in the kitchen as she was accident prone and always had a burn of some sort. The thought of a burn was more friendly to her than her wandering thoughts that had fixated on the prince.

"Emma? What are you doing in here?" the head cook, Gin, asked in her thick scottish accent.

"I was wondering if you needed help." Emma looked hopeful.

Gin glanced around the kitchen to see if there was a task that would be simple for Emma. The head cook continued to punch down the dough as she turned back to Emma.

"I'm sorry love, but I don't see that there is much to do that isn't already being done." Part of that was true. Everyone on staff was doing all they could, but there was plenty extra to do.

"Nothing at all?" Emma pleaded. She was terrified to be left alone to her thoughts.

"I suppose you could help serve," Gin trailed off as she placed the dough on a flat tray and set it to the side. Someone quickly snatched it up and shoved it into the stone oven.

"That'll work!" Emma was relieved.

"All right, but if you spill anything at all, you are not welcome in my kitchen again." Gin pointed a spoon at Emma.

"It's a deal." Emma grinned.

It didn't take much longer for the first course of the meal to be ready to serve. Emma had braided through her hair and straightened her clothes so that she looked presentable. She got in line with the other servants and lifted one of the plates.

The single file of servants walked quietly down the serving hall and into the grand dining room. The ceiling was high with long windows going down the length of the room. Emma was rarely in there as it was outside of her cleaning assignment. She stared at the grandeur in the room and wondered how it would be if she were the one to be waited upon.

All of the distinguished guests were in their seats waiting quietly for the first course. Emma watched as each servant moved behind a chair before presenting the plate to the person they stood by.

Emma spotted the last spot, vacant of any other servants, and walked smoothly to stand by the dignified woman. Emma placed the plate down and stepped back. As she stood back against the wall she realized the prince was sitting right across the table from the woman Emma had served.

The prince looked even more handsome as he was cleaned up and changed from his travel clothes. Her eyes widened surprised as she spotted the delicate blue flower tucked in his front pocket. She wondered if he knew she had placed the flowers in his room, though she doubted it.

The fact that he had plucked one flower for his own evening wear gave her assurance that he hadn't hated the secret gesture of comfort.

The dinner had barely begun when the woman Emma served sat up straight and glanced over her shoulder.

"You, servant girl!" she said sternly.

Emma felt her stomach roll over as she stepped forward.

"Yes milady?" she responded meekly.

"What is this?" the woman asked.

"I believe it is a baked bird." Emma kept her voice level.

"I do not eat meat, now take it away." She glared darkly at Emma.

Emma could feel the eyes of those closest around stare at her. She felt positively little and embarrassed. How was she supposed to know this woman didn't eat meat? Was that why no one had stood to serve her?

"I apologize, milady," Emma dipped her head as an added measure to apologize as she picked up the plate. Her hands were shaking as she could feel the eyes bore into her skin. She decided right then that she hated serving and never wanted to do it again.

Emma turned to take the plate away only to have her foot caught by one of the chairs. The food sky rocketed straight into the air before it landed on the head of the woman. Emma scrambled up from the ground and felt the color vanish from her entire body as she knew the woman was going to explode.

"You insolent and lowly servant!" the woman stood to her feet in an outrage and glared at Emma. "You did that on purpose, you horrible hag!" the woman hissed before she struck Emma across the face.

Emma took it just as she was supposed to. The noble class had every right to treat servants as they would. Emma hadn't meant to trip or cause the chicken to ruin the noble woman's attire. She bit her tongue and stopped the defensive statement as she picked up the plate and the pieces of food that had dropped from the woman.

Emma rushed out of the hall as the tears stung her eyes. It was humiliating to be yelled at in front of so many people. It felt awful as she knew how stupid she looked.

"That girl should be turned out, we never keep clumsy servants." The woman returned to her seat and seethed to the people around her.

The whole display had happened all too fast and not a soul had been able to say a word between the noble woman and Emma making a hasty retreat. "She should be punished in the least for ruining my dress, it came from France and probably cost more than she'll ever make in her life." She sniffed.

Once Emma had turned from the hall she bolted down the passageway and tossed the plate in the kitchen before she continued to get as far away as she could. Making such mistakes could cost her job and it was the only thing that kept her from destitution.

The dinner hadn't been so bad, but the people who sat around Ignacious only made him want to gut himself with sword as sharp as death. He sat in the polished, woodened chairs that were perfectly seated behind the wooden table to match. Beside of him, Jerard was busy making conversations with some of the English women who thought that the Frenchman just be too devine. At everything he would say, the women would laugh - no matter how cheesy it sounded.

King Francis and Queen Lisbeth were seated at the head of the table, and they were certainly pleased by the outcome of the dinner. The food had all been served properly so far, but Lisbeth noticed a taste a discomfort that emerged from her son. She whispered a few things to her husband about his behavior, but Francis would just wave it off and tell his wife that the boy was growing up.

However, Lisbeth saw past that. She had convinced herself that France had changed her once happy-go-lucky boy into a bitter and devious man. She disected her son the whole time that the dinner took place. From what she saw, she did not approve. Francis, on the other hand, did not really care. His son had the knowledge of becoming the ruler of England once he could no longer. It didn't matter to him if his son was bitter or chipper; he just had to make the right decisions for England.

Ignacious had been resting his head against his hand before something had caught his eye - the servant girl. Slowly, he lifted his head from his hand and watched her as she brought out the coarse. Jerard slightly nudged him, but Ignacious shot him a grimacing look. The Frenchman chuckled, shaking his head at the sight of his friend's face.

It was then that Ignacious noticed the girl narrow her eyes to the blue flower. He softly smiled, now knowing who the intruder had been. He was just about to wave her over to thank her for her gratitude before the woman sitting in front of him began to throw a fit. When the woman spoke out of context, the entire table grew quiet. Jerard and Ignacious looked at each other in confusion, but it was the next scene that made the prince's blood boil.

In a sudden rage, Ignacious saw the woman uproar and strike Emma right in the face. Ignacious's eyes grew wide with rage. Jerard quickly grabbed ahold of his frend's shoulders to seize him, but Ignacious's strength was far too great for Jerard's forces. Once he saw the girl fled, all Ignacious could do was stare in deep rage at the woman who caused the damage.

"You cold-hearted bitch," Ignacious growled.

"Ignacious!" Queen Lisbeth gasped.

However, he chose to ignore his mother. "You struck the poor servant girl just because of an accident? How cruel must you be?"

Jerard tried his best to calm the prince down. "Ignacious, please, just sit back do-..."

Yet the prince shoved Jerard off of him. He didn't intend on it to be so harsh, but with the rage he was feeling, Jerard completely backed off. He knew that once Ignacious had gotten so angry, it was just best to leave him be until he cooled off. He took the hankerchief from his suit and forcefully threw it onto the table.

"Ignacious!" Francis roared. "Come back here this instant and eat this dinner!"

"Screw your dinner," Ignacious boldly said.

As Ignacious strode forward, he heard multiple gasps erupt from the guests. However, not a care he gave. All he could think about was such cruelty and hate the woman showed the servant girl and for no exact reason either. How could he be apart of all those people? So snobbish and vile? Was he like that?

Well, yes, he was.

Ignacious found himself walking out of the castle onto the balcony. He rested his hands against the bar of the balcony banister. He lowered his head while his thoughts ran wild in his mind. He knew what he had done would not fly well with his father and mother. He possibly knew that his social status would slip down the drain a bit, but right now, he just didn't care.

Ignacious pushed himself from the bar. He stared at the nightly lit sky while the stars were beginning to form out of no where. He noticed his wildflower was shining so beautifully in the dark and managed to slowly pick it from his pocket. He examined it closely, but the aroma had disappeared - much like his anger.

The cold night air kissed Emma's hot face as she slowed her gait and came to a stop. She felt the small breeze begin to dry her tears of embarrassment and shame as she stood still. It was quiet in the night with only the distant sound of servants drifting on the air lightly.

For a while Emma tried to calm her breathing and failed as she had hiccups. She shook her head at the horrible scene as she clutched the pendant around her neck. She felt so lost and discarded. She had been abandoned as a baby, her parents had died, she worked as a servant, and she had managed to disgruntle one of London's finest women.

It felt to Emma that the universe simply must hate her. Her whole life seemed to revolve around abandonment and mistreatment. She had lived a luxurious life for nine years. Her heart used to ache for that life until she forced herself to never think of it again. She would never return to it and it was no use pining over the fact.

Her hiccups slowly calmed down until she heard a body move nearby. She looked up at the balcony she stood under and held her breath. Had they sent someone to look for her? Was she in trouble?

The feet hadn't moved away and Emma decided to speak up. If it was someone sent to look for her they would've left already when they didn't see her. She was grateful for the long shadows that came with the night as they hid her. Emma moved from beneath the balcony and squinted through the dark.

"Is someone there?" she asked quietly.

She hoped that whoever it was had left, or that she had imagined it. She didn't want to face anyone in her humiliation.

The cool air wasted no time by brushing Ignacious’s face. He enjoyed the feeling, and it certainly seemed to calm down his expressing anger. Well, that and the blue flower that he kept in firm grasp. He shut his eyes for a moment, continuing to enjoy the breeze. Ever since he was a child, he’d always loved the night. The feeling of warmth and relaxation would always comfort him even at the darkest of times.

Though as he’d learned in France – nothing good lasts forever. He opened his eyes and narrowed them to the squashed flower. Looking at its crushed figure, he could only sigh. He was feeling uncertainty in the very fact of his actions and especially his words. He could see his mother just red with humiliation, and he could also see his father red from unhealthy anger.

Nevertheless, Ignacious was forced to block that out of his mind. He knew dwelling on what he had done at the dinner table would only arouse his anger again, and that was something he did not wish to happen. He refused to let his head ache with regret. It would all have to be dealt with in the morning anyway, so why think about it now? The breeze picked up its pace and before he knew it, he watched his flower dance in the wind.

For the first time that he had been home, he saw the beauty of the land. The grounds and hills all looked so peaceful during the calm and peaceful time of the night. He could still remember staying out on that very same balcony as a child, just enjoying nature. It seemed silly to other boys his age at the time, but he didn’t care what they thought of him. To this very day, he still didn’t.

However, Ignacious became uneasy. Just below him, he heard shuffling and what seemed like movement. He convinced himself that it was just a small animal, savaging what it could for hunger. He lowered his head though just to make sure that was what he figured. He leaned over the balcony, trying to make out what the animal could have been.

It wasn’t until he heard a weak voice that caught him off guard. His eyes widened as he stumbled back on the base of the balcony. Had someone spotted him there? He sighed once more, realizing that it was one of his father’s advisors that were demanding for him to be taken back into the custody of his parents. However, the voice didn’t fit the image in his head. Once more, he slowly leaned over the balcony to where he could get a clear view of his intruder.

Though it was no advisor – it was the servant girl.

A wave of relief had been lifted from his chest. He silently thanked the heavens that it had been only her. He could see her troubled face, and he would have lied if he said it didn’t pain him. He ducked underneath the banister rod before taking a jump off of the balcony. He hit the ground hard on his feet, but he didn’t pay much attention to the stinging of his toes. He saw her there, and he saw the stained tear-marks on her cheeks. He frowned while looking at her. She did not deserve her slap in the face whatsoever.

“Forgive me,” Ignacious shifted uncomfortably. “I did not know you were out here, or I would have picked a different balcony.”

Ignacious could see the red handprint that branded her face. He shook his head in remorse. How could rage take over a person to hit such a pretty girl?

“That looks like it stings. Are you alright, Emma?”

The figure Emma had hoped was only in her imagination had jumped down from the balcony. The sudden movement had her cry out in surprise. She placed her hand over her fluttering heart as she felt the panic disappear as she realized who it was. She wondered what he was doing out there as the dinner was still under way.

The prince that stood before her was different from the one she had met earlier that day. This one spoke softly and there was concern lacing his voice as he shifted a little uncomfortably in front of her. She felt her face heat up slightly as he asked if she was all right.

"I thank you for your concern, your highness," Emma was quiet. She felt odd being in the situation where he was asking over her behalf.

"I'm sorry for intruding on your thoughts. I did not know it was you up in the balcony." She turned her face into the breeze as the air was relief to the stinging on her cheek.

She closed her eyes and breathed slowly as a stray hiccup escaped through her lips. She finally opened her dark eyes and looked at the prince. She only realized that he had been seeking refuge up in the balcony. Why was he hiding?

"If it isn't so bold for me to ask, your highness, were you not at the dinner earlier?" she didn't want to intrude on his personal business as she had no right to it. Emma was merely curious as to why the prince wasn't currently sitting at his welcoming feast.

There were several scenarios in her mind that played out in a quick successive order as to why he was on the balcony. Though naturally none of them made very much sense or seemed like the logical answer.

"I am sorry that it's so difficult for you to return home." Emma hadn't realized the words were spoken aloud except that Prince Ignacious's eyes acknowledged them.

The feelings she felt when he stood close were only intensified as she had a much more personal examination of him despite the darkness that reigned over their heads. He was taller than her by about a head. He had dark hair and his intriguing eyes pulled her in every time she looked upon them whether she wanted to or not.

Ignacious could only see the emotional torture that was going on in the young girl's eyes. He hated to see the girl that way, even if he didn't know her that well. During his stay in France, he could remember the times where he, too, had been through the same pain she had was now feeling. Since then, he would not wish it upon anyone. Even if they were one of his hated enemies.

He continued to stare at her. What could he do to take her humiliation away from her? He didn't really know this servant that well, so it would just seem odd for him to reassure her in such a way. Then again, the poor girl's face only burned his heart. He felt as if the red mark would just remain there, but he knew in good time, her beauty would blossom once again.

At the mentioning of his thinking, Ignacious merely waved it off. "Don't apologize for a thing like that," he said, "you didn't interupt anything."

It was then she asked the daring question why he had been absent for his own dinner party. His face twisted in annoyance as his eyes lifted to the windows. He could see the guests still dining while his parents simply paid no mind that their son was no longer celebrating with them. However, he eased a little when he saw that Jerard had disappeared as well.

"I simply cannot tolerate those people," he coldly announced to her. "Especially wealthy women, but it seems as if they are having a fun time without me there, so I'm sure I'm not missed."

Ignacious narrowed his eyes back to her. She was right on one thing - his homecoming was becoming rather difficult. Then again, he kind of expected it to be. He knew coming back to England would not make his life any easier, for it would only make it more hectic. Hectic came with headaches which would eventually turn into sleepless migraines.

Ignacious felt the cool breeze dance on his skin. He could feel the hair raising on his arms, which meant that it was time for him to retreat, but he could not leave the poor girl out here by herself. She had already gone through so much hate, the least he could do was attempt to be a gentlemen to her.

He extended his hand for her to take. "Why don't you come back inside? I can try to find your friend, Chloe, for you. Maybe you will feel better to be in her company."

The prince spoke and his words struck Emma deep down in her core. He had left the dinner because he couldn't tolerate women who acted in such a awful way. She felt sympathy and compassion for him as he mentioned that the dinner was moving right along without him.

She felt a strange sense of de je vu as she saw a young boy inside of him with similar disappointment and helplessness. The image of the boy in her head was dashed quickly away as he spoke up and offered his hand to her. She stared at his hand for a long moment. She saw the bitter and educated shell that encased something different inside.

"Thank you, your highness," Emma finally reached forward and accepted his hand.

The moment their hands were drawn together she felt a chill run down her spine. His touch was more familiar than his face. She felt her body react in a way to him that her mind had struggled with. There was no more doubt in her mind that they knew each other before. The sting from the slap and the burning shame she felt had melted away.

Emma hadn't moved from her spot. She stared at their hands as though a monster had started to grow between them. She was rooted to the spot as everything inside of her was chiding her for forgetting him. She felt rather guilty that she could not remember where she knew him from.

"Do you believe in a life before this?" she asked as her eyes were still stuck at where their hands were connected. "I don't know how to explain this your highness, but I know you." She said quietly as she finally retracted her hand from his.

"Thank you again for your concern, but I am fine now. I am well enough now that you can leave me alone. I do not expect you to take responsibility for my actions. Though this could be the last time you ever see me. My job shall surely be terminated in the morning." Emma rambled on. If the noble woman had anything to say about it, she would make sure Emma was let go.

Ignacious kept his eyes fixated on her. He could feel the hesitation that grew, and it was staining the atmosphere. He didn't blame her though. It was practically normal for her to feel the way she did. After all, a complete stranger was in her presence, offering to guide her back into a place of comfort. What sane person wouldn't be careful about it?

It seemed if that didn't matter. When her hand intertwined with his, Ignacious felt a spark run through his entire body. Her touch was soft and very inviting, which was why he was drastically drawn to her. He did not deny that there was some related factor between the two, but it did frustrate him to the core that he could not remember what. Her face had now been branded into his brain. Perhaps before he attempted sleep that night, he would try and diesect his thoughts.

Igncaious flashed her a smile before he heard her thank him. The chilling of her voice set electric waves throughout every inch of his body. What power had she possessed over him? Here he was, a mere upper classmen, showing grace and companionship towards this servant. To others, it may have been a disregard in his social status, but then again, no one was around, and he wasn't being forced do it.

The chilling of their hands being together only intriguied the prince. He caught her staring at their embedded hands and wondered if he'd gone to far in his gentlemen skills. It was polite to offer a hand to a lady, and Franch didn't need to tell him that. It was mere common sense.

But her question took him by surprise. He arched an eyebrow while thinking of an acceptable answer. "I'm not sure," he said to her. "Perhaps only time will tell...?"

Was that a reasonable answer? He would probably never know. All he could really do was hope for the best and get on with it. He was about to guide her back into the castle before she pulled away from him. Her action also caught him by surprise once more. He stared at her, confusion sweeping across his face.

When she brought up the consequence of her incident, Ignacious could only roll his eyes. He crossed his arms, glancing quickly at the woman from the window. Oh, how he was beginning to despise that woman.

"Nonsense!" he said as he uncrossed his arms. "You will not be harmed in any way shape or form. Just leave it to me to handle that old bi-."

Ignacious stopped himself from going any further. It was clear that his anger was emerging from his pit, and he refused to let the girl see it. He decided that he would keep his world and make sure that the girl would not have any problems in which the accident occured. He smiled at her, letting her know that he meant it.

"I do hope you feel better," he said before turning his heel. "And for Christ's sake, stop addressing me as 'your highness.' It's very unmoving and quite frankly, quite annoying. Refer to me as anything else but that."

Ignacious smirked as he turned to walk back into the castle. The night was growing darker than before, and he knew he had to either sleep a restless night or discuss with Jerard about why he did what he did. Restless sleeping had never sounded better.

Emma was once again brought into silence by this prince as he told her to not worry about what had happened. The conviction and oncoming anger in his voice startled her. It seemed to her that he genuinely meant for her well being. It warmed her in her heart to think that this man of such a high class was offering the most basic of human kindness when it wasn't expected of him and he wasn't expecting anything in return.

Emma flushed as he asked her to stop addressing him as "your highness" as he informed her he found it annoying. He could hardly be too annoyed with Emma as that was what was expected of her. She was of a lowly class and had to address all those above her with their title. There had been no way around it.

The fact that the prince insisted rubbed away the residual pain she had from the horrific scene in the dining room. She saw his smirk and could feel it imprinted upon her mind as he retreated back into the castle and left her alone.

Emma hadn't known it was possible to go from feeling such a hot humiliation to a comforted and hopeful attitude within minutes of each other, she wouldn't have believed it. Yet she had the proof inside of her. The prince had left her feeling as though she was worth something. It was much more awe inspiring that he took the time than if he had merely assured her she wouldn't lose her job.

The walk to her small room was a very long one as she mulled over the day. The prince was not at all what she expected and she was pleased by the new discovery. She knew that Chloe would hardly believe anything that had happened between her and the prince as it sounded quite far fetched.

Once inside the small room Emma laid upon her bed and stared at the ceiling. She decided to not give Chloe the details over her encounter with the prince below the balcony. His kindness gave her a glimmer of hope that perhaps just because one had wealth and a title did not automatically make one a pompous pig.

It was late in the night when Chloe had returned to the room. She saw that Emma had already fallen asleep and that there was a faint mark still where Emma had been struck. The news had travelled all over the castle even before dessert had been set on the table.

Chloe admired Emma a great deal. Emma had a strong spirit but very little self confidence. She had always played to the shadow of others taking no credit for things that she had accomplished. Chloe hoped dearly that Emma wouldn't have to waste away in the castle as a servant like many of the other servants who had come through.

That was the hardship of the times. One rarely rose above their station unless through a marriage. Even with a marriage it was always shrouded in intrigue and heavy gossip. If your grandparents were born beggars, your parents were beggars, than it was easy to declare you'd die a beggar. Things never changed socially.

The journey from the outside grounds to his room was the most uncomfortable he had felt while being home. Not even a day into his arrival that he had already done something that the courtship would disapprove and think less of him. As he walked inside of the dimmed halls, he felt eyes burning into his body. It was true - the news had spread like wildfire. However, the guests who still remained in the castle, turned their noses up to him. They thought it was just strange that he would stick up for a servant girl. That just floored him.

Ignacious didn't mind the glares and scoffs of the guests. The only thing of his concern would be to run into his father or Jerard. His headache was once again booming in his skull, and he did not feel like dealing with neither of the two. He kept his head focused forward while he slightly glanced at everyone around him. It was a sign of weakness, but with the pain he was feeling, he really had no choice.

It wasn't until he'd reached his bedroom door when he felt a firm hand grip his shoulder. Startled, he whipped around to face his companion.

Jerard stood there, slightly looking worried. "Iggstad, where did you venture to?"

At the sight of Jerard, Ignacious brought his hand to his chest to calm his rapid heartbeat. He sighed, releasing his hand from his chest and glaring at the Frenchman. "I had to get some fresh air," he said placing his hand on the door knob. "If I had spent two more seconds in that room, I would have lost it completely."

Ignacious then remembered that he could not see Jerard sitting in the dining area when he glanced at the window just moments before. He wanted to question his friend where he had gone but decided against it. His problems were far more important than Jerard's.

Jerard felt uncomfortable. "Your parents are not too happy of your outburst."

"Who would be? My actions were unacceptable."

"That's where you're wrong, Iggstad," Jerard told him while twiddling his fingers. "Of all the years I have known your sorry English self, I have never once have the glory of showing such kindness, especially towards someone as low as a servant girl."

Ignacious opened his bedroom door that left a small crack. He turned to face his friend and could not find any words to say. His mind searched for any thoughts that may have came to him, but they were left with none. All he could really do was look down at the marbled floor and heavily sigh.

"Iggstad? Who is that servant girl?"

The prince didn't face his friend. He lifted his head to stare at the hardwood door. "I don't know, Jerard," he spoke with a hint of rasp in his voice. "I just want to go to bed."

He heard Jerard sigh as well, but his footsteps told Ignacious that he could retreat into his bedroom. He shut the door behind him and leaned against it to the listen to the soothing silence. It was piercing after a while, but Ignacious deserved every menacing sound. He realized that his eyelids were becoming heavy with exhaustion, and since he didn't sleep like he should have earlier that day, he knew that a long night would take place. He was ready to face on the challenge.

Ignacious stripped from his evening clothes into something mor suitable for bed. In France, he was taught that any old ragid clothing could be acceptable for bed. The only souls that would see it would be the departed ones, but they had no tongues to tell. It was a strange motto to go back, but Ignacious never complained. In fact, he found it quite relaxing.

When his head hit the soft pillow, he immediately went into a deep sleep state. He wasted no time finding peace in his sleep (which was so rare because of the constant tossing and turning). However, during his slumber state, his thoughts came rushing.

It seemed like it had never rained in the open plains of the countryside. Everytime the young boy would go with his mother, there would always be sunshine. However, on this day, the sun had hid behind grey-colored clouds. It seemed as if the sun had known about this day all along.

While his mother spoke to a noble who lived close to the plains, the young prince ran off to find her. He had something clutched in his palm so hard that he made sure his mother would not see. He ran for a while to finally find her there, sitting just in the tall meadows of the countryside. When he saw her, a smile instantly planted itself onto his face.

Though when he thought of what his parents told him, the smile instantly faded. He spoke out to her and saw her wave him out for him to come join her in the meadow. He did so, plopping himself right beside of her. She had apparently be weaving a straw stem into a braide of some sort as he chuckled at her creation.

It was then that he saw her shining face. As beautiful as she was, the young prince could not fathom to tell her of his departure from England. To see her heartbroken would only crush his young spirit. However, he knew he could not hide it from her.

"Emmeline," he hesitated before speaking, "m-my mother informed me that I'll be shipped to France for a while to have some schooling."

"That's fine!" she exclaimed. "When will you be back?"

Her question hit him hard. He turned away from her, facing the open plains that seemed to be laughing at him. "I-I don't know," he said struggling to regain himself. "My parents said it would be a long time. Possibly even years."

She did not speak.

It was then that he heard his mother call for him, telling him it was time to leave. He whipped his head to see his mother waving him over. He slowly stood up and looked down at his friend. She looked so helpless that it broke the young boy's heart. He reached down and gently grabbed the young lady's arms to help her on her feet.

When he had accomplished the task, he brought forth his hand out to her. He opened his palm to show a beautiful, diamond necklace. He urged her to take it from him. He smiled as he watched her slowly reach out and take it from his palm. He smiled as he helped to put it around her neck. Once it was straightened out, he admired it had on her beauty.

He took her by the hand. "I'll come back for you when I get back," he said. "You can count on that as a promise. As long as you wear this necklace, I will never forget you."

His mother's screetches were becoming frantic. He let go of her hand, running back to his mother, leaving the girl there alone. He glanced back at her, seeing the diamond necklace sparkle.

Ignacious shot up from his bed and soon came to discover his entire pillow had been drenched with sweat. He was still sweating rapidly as his heart felt like it was about to beat out of his chest. He sat up straight, leaning against the headpost. He place his head in his hands and sighed. He didn't know what the dream meant. Was it possibly a memory? He just didn't know.

Ignacious brought his head up from his hands to glance out of the window. He could tell it was early morning rising from the hills. He threw the sweat-drenched pillow across the room before he slumped into his bed. While laying there, the ceiling looked so grim and unsuiting. He took another pillow from his bed and placed it firmly over his face.

He let out another groan.

The morning came quite abruptly for Emma as it had come time for the servants to stir and start their day. Her night had been full of detached thoughts and broken dreams. None of which she could recollect in the morning as she rolled from her straw mattress and pulled on her servants garb.

Emma spent half the morning receiving her reprimand for the horrific display the night before. She was grateful to discover that she was not to be kicked out for her mistake, but rather set with a couple more chores for the next while.

Meanwhile Chloe had been up rather early tending to her early morning chores before she rushed off to the prince's room. He had been left in her care and she wasn't about to slack off. For some it may seem like a burden to serve such a sophisticated man. Though it was not for Chloe to complain.

Part of the reason she was thrilled with this new arrangement was so that she could rub it in Minnie's face. The two girls really disliked one another with a passion. When Chloe had received her assignment she was elated beyond belief.

She arrived to his room with a pail of water. She entered quietly so as not to disturb him. She poured the water into his wash basin before she proceeded to carefully put the fire out. Once she had finished she turned to where he was starting to wake up and curtsied.

"If there is anything else that you require this morning, I am at your service." Chloe placed a blonde strand of hair behind her ear.


Once Emma was excused from the man in charge of the servants in the castle she decided to skip her breakfast and start on her chores immediately. It would take all of the good light in the day for her to complete them.

The first task she had been assigned was to scrub the entrance hall floor. The floor was vast and there was a very large area of floor that needed consistent cleaning in order to keep it looking good.

The large bucket she had was filled just below the top and was soapy. She knelt down and took out the scrub brush as she began to tackle the foot prints that had been practically imprinted into the glossy marble.

Emma's mind wandered as she worked. She couldn't deny how she felt any longer. She knew that she had forgotten the prince and it bothered her. She wondered if she had blocked it because it had been painful or because it was a hard reminder of what she had lost.

Her thoughts also rounded back around to Beth. Beth had been the older woman who had basically rescued Emma from the streets. She had taken her in and showed her how to work.

When Beth had died a little over a year ago it had been hard on Emma. Already in her young life she had seen more than enough death. It was difficult to accept that she was gone from her.

Beth had also been the one who had stopped using Emeline and began to call her Emma. For a while it confused Emma. Why should she be called such a simplified and shortened name? Beth explained that it was not always the best idea to use such an elaborate name when her station was so low. As ridiculous as it was, some of the noble folk disliked it very much when their servants had grand names.

It didn't take long before Emma grew used to her new name. The thought of being called Emeline now sat funny with her. It did seem like such a silly name to keep when she scrubbed floors and dusted books. It was rather useless to her and she no longer missed it.

Chloe was the only one who remembered Emma's actual name. Everyone knew her to be Emma now, but Chloe had always loved Emeline as a name. She wished that Emma would use it as it fitted her perfectly. Even though Emma had been pulled down into a servants life she still held her sophisticated air when she didn't think she was being watched.

After all, Emma had received a higher education. She knew how to engage a room from the side of a noblewoman. However she would never be in a situation as that again and only ever joked with Chloe over it.

The pillow made somewhat of a shield for Ignacious. He stared at the darkness while he forced himself to try and get more sleep; however, it just resulted in failure. He didn't hear the creak of his door opening mainly because he was lost in his own thought. The dream - or rather nightmare - that he just had could not escape his mind. He was growing rather frustrated and even supposing of waking up to start this miserable day.

However, someone had already beat him to it. He slowly took the pillow off of his face and saw that Chloe had entered his bed chamer. He jumped, almost falling out of his bed. His frustration turned into anger, but held back. It wasn't Chloe's fault that she startled him, for she was only doing what she was told to do. He sat up from his laying position, the sheets falling off of him.

For the most part, Ignacious could see her curtsy in gratitude. He sighed as he watched her only to let his anger calm.

"Morning, Chloe," he mumbled.

As much as he desired, Ignacious knew he could not lay in bed all day. He swung his legs on to the side of the bed. When he gained the physical strength, he stood himself up. The floor below him felt chilling to his feet, but he didn't mind. Everything around him was already cold enough.

He walked over to her and looked down at her. It never ceased to amuse him that he was a giant compared to everybody else. In fact, he took pride in his physical appearance. Not for the sake of attraction but for the sake of power. He forced himself to seem humble to her even though he had been awoken.

He bent over to place his hands on his knees in order for him to get down to her level. He took a good look at her, trying to analyze her face structure. In order for this day to go well, he had to at least attempt to be kind even if she was only a servant girl.

"Your face stands out without all that hair covering it up," he said to her. "It makes you look pretty."

Well, what wasn't creepy at all, Ignacious.

He felt his face grow hot before finally excusing himself to the wash chamber. He saw that she already filled the basin, so he was appreciable that he didn't have to do it himself. In France, he sought no one to do everything for him, and they certainly didn't.

He undressed, letting himself step into the warm water. It was relaxing to the prince, and he was overjoyed that he could enjoy himself if only for a moment. However, his head decided to ruin the moment in which he'd longed.

He forgot to shut the door.