forum Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)

Started May 08, 2023 by @LolaBug

tune

Ophelia notices a hint of skepticism in Ambrose's reaction, and she understands his reservations. After all, trust is not easily earned within the confines of the court, where appearances often mask true intentions. She respects his cautious approach and welcomes the opportunity to share more about herself. She truly does want the best for Kaillas after all.

"I apologize for the lack of information you've received about me," Ophelia responds, biting her tongue about the reason why. In arranged marriages not much information is offered about the bride since they’re practically being sold like broodhorses. "I suppose in the grand scheme of things, my background and personal story have been overshadowed by the weight of royal expectations.”

She pauses for a moment, considering how to best describe herself. "I find solace in the arts, particularly in painting and music," She begins, starting with something a little more proper. "I love animals. Before moving here I had three dogs, four cats, and a handful of canaries and doves. I wasn’t allowed to bring them with me, unfortunately.” She hates that she had to leave them behind but she didn’t get a choice.

“I love sweets. I even named my new stallion Cheesecake,” She says with a light laugh, wanting to bring a little humor to the conversation.

Her eyes briefly flicker towards Kaillas, her smile widening as she watches him enjoying himself with his sister. She can only imagine what scandalous comment Elora made to get such a reaction.

Ambrose listened quietly as she spoke. He had heard whispers of some of the things she said such as her love of animals. Their spymaster would likely know more as it was his job to know those things. He would have to check in with him later. All they knew was that she wasn't a threat to the king. But her hobbies and such were unknown to them.

"You should speak with Kaillss," he said, "Perhpas he can arrange for your pets to be brought here." He didn't know why they couldn't have come. At least some of them. They had plenty of room and they could always build something if they needed a cage for the pet.

For a stallion, especially a Shire, he thought the name Cheesecake was demeaning. But it wasn't anything he could speak on. The princess outranked him, even if she wasn't queen yet. And if she made Kaillas happy then he was happy.

But he was still suspicious of her. He was suspicious of everyone. It was part of his job. Not as hand but as the king's friend. He had seen him go through too much. He wanted to protect him.

Ophelia shakes her head. “There is nothing Kaillas, nor anyone else, can do about bringing my pets here. I have already exhausted all options.” The proboem isn’t space or anything that is an easy fix. The problem is her parents. They refuse to let her have her pets back. They fear that the animals will be the cause of too many distractions when it comes to her marriage. She finds it ridiculous but she can’t do anything about it.

As for Cheesecake’s name, quite frankly she doesn’t give a damn about what everyone else thinks. She’s happy with the name and as for the horse? Well, he doesn’t care. The stallion isn’t going to be embarrassed by a name. All that matters is how she treats him. And she does treat him well.

Besides, all of her pets have pretty silly names. They’re all sweet and loving names but most people do think it’s a little ridiculous.

Though she appreciates that Ambrose cares about Kaillas, she doesn’t enjoy that she’s getting the politest judging ever. She knows that he’s inspecting every move she makes and every word she says. It’s unsettling.

Ambrose pursed his lips. "You should still talk to him. You'd be surprised how much he gets his way." Kaillas had a very authoritative figure. When he said something, people tended to listen, whether or not he was good at speeches. "And if it's for your happiness, he won't stop until he succeeds." Even if their marriage kicked love, he still would have done everything in his power to keep Ophelia happy.

He could easily sense her unease. Just the way that she was tensing under his fingers. It almost made him smile. It was a good thing that she was nervous. If she wasn't, they have a problem.

"It'll calm down eventually," he said, "once the court is used to you they'll stop watching your every move. There will always be eyes on you, that's just what it means to be queen. But it will get better." He remembered his first time at court. He had been very young. He had begged his father to take him, just for a day. He remembered how the people all stared at him. It was unsettling.

"It took me a long time to get used to this life, and even then, I still struggle some days." He looked around for a brief moment. "It will be worse when you return from your honeymoon. Everyone will be hovering to see if you're with child. But when they see you are not, they'll find somewhere else to flock."

Ophelia's gaze remains fixed on a point in the distance as she absorbs Ambrose's words. The weight of the impending responsibilities and expectations settles heavily on her shoulders. She knows that marrying Kaillas will thrust her into a position of prominence and scrutiny, but hearing it reiterated by Ambrose brings forth a fresh wave of anxiety.

"I understand," she finally replies, forcing herself to keep her tone composed. "I know it won't be easy, and I'm prepared for the challenges that come with being queen. But the constant watchfulness, the relentless scrutiny… it's daunting. I can't help but worry about measuring up to everyone's expectations."

She eventually returns her gaze to Ambrose. She wonders if eveyone will ever see her for who she is, beyond the title that she will have. She is her own person, not just who they think she should be.

"I understand that the court's attention will be focused on us when we return. The pressure for me to bare him an heir will be immense, but I won't allow it to ruin our change or happiness.” The court can do many things but forcing her to have a child is the one thing they can’t do.

Ambrose's gaze shifted down on her. He offered her a small smile. "Let me give you a bit of advice. You can't please everyone. There's always going to be someone out there who isn't happy with your decisions or doesn't like you. Do what you're passionate about. And while I don't suggest disregarding everyone at court, don't let then completely control your decisions."

Ambrose made choices on the daily that pissed off several members of the court. So did Kaillas. But he was the king and Ambrose was his Hand. There was nothing they could do to retaliate. At least nothing that wouldn't make things worse for them.

The song was coming to an end and Kaillas would likely want his bride back. But he had one last piece of advice for her. "You're an outsider. We're wary of outsiders. The last time we got close to a foreigner half the royal family was murdered in their sleep." They had never been able to prove anything that those specific people were responsible. But it did cause a rift between them. And they were skeptical of outsiders ever since.

As the song finally came to an end. Ambrose bowed deeply for Ophelia. "I have no doubt you will succeed, Your Highness." And then he passed her back to Kaillas and took Elora in his arms and whisked her away on the dance floor.

Ophelia breathes out a quiet sigh. Though she knows that he means well but unfortunately, she's not so sure that his advice will help. Like he points out, she is an outsider. She does have to try to please everyone, at least in the beginning. The kingdom will never accept her if she comes out of the gates swinging with doing things her own away and disregarding what they think of her. It's a delicate balance and not one that she enjoys.

At the mention of what happened the last time outsiders were trusted, she flinches a little. Though it was in not way her fault, she feels guilt. It leaves her wondering if marrying Kaillas will only bring him pain and uncertainty. The smile on her face is quick to fade. She's done for the night after this. Her conversation with Ambrose has given her much to think about and process.

Though the man has really done nothing wrong and was never cruel to her, she still feels off after what all they discussed. She had been thinking that the conversation would at least stay lighthearted but she was wrong. That's no fault of his, though. She knows that he is just trying to help.

Forcing that smile back on her face, she bids farewell to Ambrose and turns her attention to Kaillas when he approaches. The last thing she wants to do is worry him so she'll keep the smile on her face and assure him that everything is perfectly fine.

Kaillas coukd sense something was off as he came back to Ophelia's side. He couldn't be certain of what they talked about but given the atmosphere, he had a feeling. He woukd have to talk with Ambrose later. They were scaring off his bride.

Taking her hand, he pressed a soft kiss to the skin. "Would you like to dance one more time or are you ready to retire." Kaillss knew better than anyone how overwhelming it could. Coming into a new place with too many people watching you. Sometimes it was too much. He used to lock himself in his room for days to escape.

He pulled her perhaps a hair too close to his body. Everyone was either drunk or preoccupied. There wasn't an eye focused on them. Well, mostly. Perhaps a couple maids were but he wasn't worried about them. They would report to his spymaster or they would keep quiet. And holding Ophelia a little too close wasn't something to worry about.

Feeling his lips against her hand, Ophelia's heart skips a beat, a gentle flush rising to her cheeks. She looked into his eyes, seeing concern, something that worries her. She doesn't want him to fret over her. There's enough on his plate as it is. She will be fine in time. Everything is just an adjustment right now. Things will get better. That's what she tells herself at least.

A soft smile returns to her face as she replies. "One more dance?" She requests lightly, wanting to end the night on a positive note.

As Kaillas pulled her slightly closer, she feels a sense of comfort. The world around them seems to fade into the background, and for that moment, it's just the two of them, sharing a private moment amidst the revelry.

She places her hand gently on his chest, her fingers curling around the fabric of his attire. She's using him as an anchor, just for a moment. It's risky but she's willing to do it anyways. Everyone around them is either too drunk or too focused on their own dance partners to care about them.

Kaillas pulled her into his arms as a soft, slow song played next. He swayed softly to the music, moving across the dance floor. It was good song to end their night with. After they left, the band would likely play more upbeat music and they continued drinking. He'd likely be able to hear it faintly in his room.

"Are you alright?" He murmured in her ear. "Can I do anything for you?" He would he do anything to help make the transition easier. He didn't want her to suffer quietly.

He spun her slowly before pulling her back into him. He dug his fingers in her waist, annoyed how the structure of the corset was blocking him from doing too much. Not that he was trying to do anything inappropriate with her, he just wanted to feel her.

He felt her fingers clutching his shirt. She holding onto him as if he was the only thing holding her up. He would gladly be her anchor. Whatever she needed he was here for her.

As Kaillas pulls her into his embrace, swaying to the soft, melodic rhythm of the music, Ophelia lets herself be enveloped by his presence. The gentle movement soothes her, creating a sense of tranquility amidst the whirlwind of the evening. She rests her head against his shoulder, feeling the warmth of his breath against her ear as he murmurs his concern.

"I'm alright," She assures him gently. She doesn't want a minor incident to ruin the rest of their evening. Her own doubts are nothing that should concern him. In due time, she'll learn how to manage everything.

Though her dress is much more comfortable than some of her other outfits, the corset is as restricting as it always it. Unfortunately, there aren't many occasions where not wearing one would be appropriate. She certainly wishes that she could get away without wearing it more often.

Kaillas wasn't sure if he quite believed her but he didn't press the matter. He wouldn't make her talk if she didn't want to. In truth, he wasn't very good with feelings. In the army, he was told to get iver with a slap on the shoulder. Emotions weren't talk about at all. You had to man up and face it. It was soemthung that he struggled with his sisters. If they were upset he never pressed them on talking. And even if they did, he wasn't exactly sure what to say to them.

He was quiet untim the song finally came to an end. He bent at the waist in a bow before offering his arm to her. "I think it is time to retire for the night." He said it just loud enough for anyone that was easedropping on them to hear. That way no one would be suspicious if they both disappeared.

The walk to their rooms felt all to short and he had to say goodbye to Ophelia. But only briefly. He would walk into his rooms, shed a couple of layers so he was more comfortable, and knock on her door. He wasn't sure if she wanted to change into her night clothes or anything of the sorts.

He brushed his lips against her cheek, the only witness being the couple guards stationed in the hall. "I will knock on our door in ten minutes," he murmured, before parting from her and entering his rooms.

There he changed out if his formal clothing until he was just in a simple shirt and trousers. He waited very impatiently while those ten minutes ticked back. And as soon as the clock struck, he was at the door, knowing three times.

Ophelia appreciates that Kaillas is willing to drop the subject. Though it may seem like she's not telling him because she doesn't trust him, it's just because she doesn't want to ruin their time together over what she deems to be silly worries.

When the dance comes to an end, she gracefully curtsies in response to his bow and accepts his offered arm. As they make their way towards their rooms, she feels a mix of anticipation and a tinge of sadness that the night was coming to a close. She knows they needs their rest, but a part of her wishes to savor the moments a little longer. At least they'll be able to speak in private soon.

Once they reach their respective doors, she bids him a brief goodbye. She watches as Kaillas enters his room, glad that he announces their departure from each other's company loudly enough for the guards to hear so suspicions don't rise.

"I'll be waiting," she whispers softly, her voice carrying a hint of longing. With a final glance, she enters her own room, feeling a sense of eagerness and nervousness. She quickly dismisses her attendants, desiring a moment of solitude before Kaillas joined her. She doesn't need any help getting changed after all.

She makes her way to the ornate mirror, her fingers lightly tracing the delicate fabric of her gown as she catches a glimpse of her reflection. Her mind drifts, reflecting on the events of the evening, the advice from Ambrose, and the weight of her new role as queen. Taking a deep breath, she expels those thoughts from her head.

Not wanting to stay stuffed into the corset and dress, she gets changed into a comfortable night gown and then covers that up with a robe. She doesn't want to seem improper after all. Knowing that she has a few minutes to spare, she takes a minute to undo her hair and brush it out, feeling immediate relief to not have it pulled up so tightly. With that done, all that's left to do is wait.

As the minutes ticked by, anticipation grows within her. The three knocks on the door startle her and her heart skips a beat. Standing up, she makes her way over to the door and cracks it open. A face instantly appears on her face when she sees him. "Hi."

Kaillas was dressed in simple. He liked simple. He preferred it. The dark brown trousers and off white linen shirt suited him well. Simple and to the point. Just like he was.

So when the door opened to reveal Ophelia in a night dress and robe, he suddenly felt sorely under dressed. The glimpses he had of the nightgown as delicate and silk. The robe had beautiful embroidery. She looked devastating. Kaillas didn't know how he was going to get through this without bursting.

It took him a moment longer to realize that she had spoken to him and he needed to respond. He had been struck speechless as her appreance. He had to subtly adjust himself in his pants. He didn't want to scare her off by realizing just the sight if her had him aroused.

"Hello." It was almost a whisper. His eyes flickered up, surveying her room before looking back down at her. "May I come in?" He asked.

Their relationship would be based purely off consent. He wouldn't do anything she didn't say yes too. And that went for everything. Too many women had their choices taken away from them. Ophelia had that choice taken away when she was carted off to his kingdom. He knew better than to expect praise for doing the bare minimum. He just wanted to make her comfortable.

He wanted every woman in his kingdom to be comfortable and happy. It was a slow progress. Too many people in his kingdom were stuck in the old ways. Perhpas one day, his future generation would be able to succeed.

She studies Kaillas for a moment, having never seen dressed in such simple attire before. She can't help but admire the way he exudes a natural, understated charm. A light blush spreads across her cheeks when she notices his eyes sweeping over her attire. She feels vulnerable and self-conscious under his gaze. But the way he looks at her, with awe, makes her feel beautiful and desired.

She hadn't been sure if she was supposed to change or not but she figured it would be best to go ahead and prepare for bed. After he has left for the evening she will sleep and being in her nightgown already will allow her to do that with convenience.

"Of course, please come in," she replies, appreciating that he's asking for permission first. As Kaillas steps inside, she closes the door behind him, the sound echoing in the hushed space. Soft candlelight casts warm, flickering shadows across the space, illuminating the intricate details of the furnishings. Delicate silks and lace adorn the bed and windows. Nearly all of it is from her home. She brought many things with her and has begun to put it all up to make the space her own.

"Make yourself comfortable." She gestures to a cozy sitting area adorned with plush cushions and a small table. It feels strange to have him in her room. While they were completely alone in the maze earlier, this feels different. She isn't entirely sure why. There is no chance they get caught. Most people have retired to their own chambers for the night and those who havent are still dancing and drinking the night away.

She steps over to the couch and sits down, looking over to him. She feels oddly calm right now. Being around him has allowed her to come down from her frazzled state after her conversation with Ambrose.

Kaillas stepped into the room as the door widened enough for him to slip through. He paused for a moment, looking at the room. He noticed so many things had changed from last night when they had once spoken. The decorations were different but not knew. He coukd tell they had been used and well loved. She brought these from home, he thought to himself. He was happy she was settling in and making the space her own.

The soft flicker of the candle light only seemed to add to the ambience. It was cozy, inviting. It had a feminine feel to it without being off putting with frills and colors. It felt like Ophelia.

He stepped towards the couch and took a seat next to her. He allowed a little bit of distance between the two of them, letting her decide how close they sat. He wouldn't object if she wanted to sit closer to him. In fact he woukd prefer it. He was fantasizing about grabbing her thighs and dragging her onto his lap- No, he couldn't think that way. Not now. Not yet. She had only just received her first kiss. He wasn't going to do anything else to her. Nothing short of innocent touches and stolen kisses.

He kept his hands firmly in his lap. Reason one, so he didn't reach out and try to touch her. And reason two was to hide a certain appendage that was making its presence known.

"I feel like I know nothing about you," he finally spoke, "I was hoping we coukd take this tike to get to know each other a little better. Let's start with the basics." He also wanted to kiss her some more but he coukd at least act like he jad pure intentions at first.

The decorations and the furniture arrangement will change often. Whenever she finds herself unable to sleep, she rearranges and redecorates. It’s something she’s done for as long as she can remember. As a small child she used to get so frustrated when she was physically unable to move everything around. Now she still struggles with a few of the heavier pieces but it’s manageable.

Like with most of her wardrobe, everything is soft shades of colors. She loves to add color to everything but she doesn’t like when it’s too aggressive or too loud. It’s taken her awhile to perfect the perfect balance.

She looks at Kaillas, glad that they’re able to do this. She adjusts herself on the couch, closing the distance between them ever so slightly. She tells herself that it’s her indicating her willingness to engage in the conversation however, it’s most because she just wants to be closer to him.

Briefly shifting her gaze to where his hands are nearly placed on his lap, she can’t help but compare that to the actions of a naughty school boy being scolded. It’s amusing and she can’t help but wonder what the reason for it is.

"I'd like that," She replies with a soft smile. "What would you like to know?" She’ll tell him anything.

Kaillas tried to hide his smile as she shifted closer to him. He had to lock his fingers together so he didn't reach out and touch her. Baby steps. Especially when they were both so under dressed. He worried that he might losse his self control and he wasn't going to put himself in a position where he was pawing at her.

It wasn't as if he had gone a long time without a woman. The last time he had taken one to bed had been just less than a week since her arrival. He wanted to do right by her. Ever since he had learned of her arrival he had decided on abstinence. She was to be his wife. He wasn't going to disrespect her by bedding another woman, before they were married and after. Ohphelia woukd be his last woman, if she ever invited him into her bed which he would gladly do so.

It was just something about her that had him physically reacting to her as well as emotionally. She was a beautiful woman, he wouldn't deny that. But it wasn't just her body that had him going, it was her sweet mind and wonderful words. It was everything about her. And he had made the terrible decision to put himself in such a position. Or perhaps a most wonderful one. But he woukd have something to take care of later this night after they parted for bed.

"Tell me everything." His voice had deepened some here in the candle light. "I want to know your likes, yoru dislikes. When's your birthday? How do you like to celebrate it?"

If she had any idea what some of the things he’s thinking about are, half of her would simply die from the embarrassment and the other half would be tempted to go with it.

Taking a moment to consider his questions, Ophelia leans back against the couch, a thoughtful expression on her face. She‘a already told him a few things so she wants to make sure she doesn’t repeat them unnecessarily.

"Well, my likes…" she begins, taking this seriously. "I love literature, especially poetry. There's something enchanting about the way words can weave emotions and transport us to different worlds. I also enjoy painting and expressing myself through art. It's a way for me to capture fleeting moments and emotions."

"When it comes to dislikes, I suppose I'm not particularly fond of heights. Balconies are fine for the most part but anything heigher and my legs stop working. I found that out because I climbed on the roof when I was ten. Nearly fell off.” She pauses for a moment as a sour look briefly flickers across her face. “Might have been less painful to fall off. I was black and blue for awhile after my parents found out.” She had just wanted to get a better look at the stars.

As for her birthday, Ophelia's smile returns. "It's actually coming up soon. In about a month. I don’t really celebrate much, though. Usually one of the chefs makes me a cupcake and I go out on a little picnic to eat it.”

She prattles on for a moment longer before turning her attention properly to Kaillas. "What about you? What are your likes and dislikes? How do you celebrate your birthday?”

Kaillas was sitting entirely too rigid and he was getting worried that she would notice. He had a feeling any of their meetings not in a public setting would be like this. At least untim she was ready to progress their relationship. Which meant he saw a lot of cold baths in his future. That was never fun.

He did relax some as he listened to her speak. She had a soothing voice and it helped ease some of his tension. And it distracted him for his problem at hand. He smiled at her likes and cringed at her story of the roof. While Heights never bothered him he understood how an experience like that woukd definitely create a negative sense towards heights.

He made sure to remember her birthday. The palace would throw a celebration, there was no escaping that. But he would something smaller, more intimate fir Ophelia. Something with just the family and friends. He would give her something to look forward to for each birthday.

Now, Kaillas should have been expecting for her to turn around and ask the same questions of him and yet he was completely off guard. He wasn't very good about taking about himself. It made him uncomfortable.

He shifted slightly on the couch, stretching his fingers before clasping then again "I like training," he finally said. "I like my sisters. I like going out for a drink." He wasn't sure what else he like. His days were filled with paperwork and meetings. There wasn't much time in between that to enjoy himself. "I suppose I enjoy astronomy but I don't really understand a lot of it. I just like looking at the stars."

"I dislike paperwork." That was a given. "And speeches." He hated public speaking perhaps even more than he did paperwork. And he loathed paperwork.

"I don't like celebrating my birthday but the palace always throws a celebration every year. There's no stopping it." He had always been indifferent to it. Another year another age. It didn't matter to him. And yet he still wanted to do something for Ophelia.

Ophelia listens attentively as Kaillas speaks about himself, her eyes fixated on him. She notices his slight discomfort, and a gentle smile plays on her lips, offering reassurance. She can tell that opening up about himself isn’t easy for him, but she appreciates his effort.

For the most part, she remains quiet as he talks, not wanting to interrupt. Occasionally she does make a comment, hoping to encourage him to keep going. The mention of his training has shirtless images of him floating through her head. She tries her best to focus on anything else. She runs her hand up and down her thigh as she clears her head of those improper thoughts.

As Kaillas mentioned his interest in astronomy, she nods her head. She remembers how content he seemed in the astrology tower earlier so this doesn’t surprise her. It’s also something that they have in common so she’s pleased about that. She just tends to take a less than safe approach to it apparently.

“If I’m allowed, I wouldn’t mind doing some of your public speaking for you.” It genuinely doesn’t bother her to talk to a crowd and if she can offer some relief to Kaillas, she’s more than happy to do it. As king, he has so many responsibilities. It must be tiring.

Regarding his birthday, Ophelia's expression softened. "Perhaps we can steal you away on your birthday and do a small celebration, away from the madness of the palace.” It could just be his sisters, herself, him, and whoever else he would like. Though she’s not sure how she could pull that off, she’s got some time to plan.

She reaches out and gently places her hand on Kaillas's, offering him a reassuring touch. "Thank you for sharing these things with me, Kaillas. I really am glad that we have this chance to talk."

Kaillas offered her a small smile. "You can speak for me anytime." He wasn't good at speeches. He didn't know how to write them and appeal to the people.. and standing up there with all those eyes on him was nerve-wracking. he would rather be the force behind the screen or on the battlefield. He could leave the pretty words for someone else to say. He would gladly let Ophelia speak for him. She had done well so far so he couldn't imagine her saying anything wrong.

He had over six months before his birthday. There was time to work out the details should she wish to follow through. He didn't care much for the celebration but he still wished to celebrate for Ophelia's. For that, he didn't have much time. He would speak with Catalina and his sisters to plan something. Specifically Elora. She was closer in age to Ophelia and she might know a few things his bride would like. "Anything to escape the palace." He truly hated the palace and being king. He was never supposed to wear the crown. He was never supposed to have these responsibilities.

Kaillas turned his hand over to interlace his fingers with hers. He gave her hand a soft squeeze. "I am too. Though I'm next door if you ever need anything. All you gotta do is ask." He would let in her anytime she wanted to.

"What do you like to do in your free time? Besides horse riding." He was contemplating between continuing this conversation or finally kissing her. But he felt like too much of a harlot if he asked what she liked then started to kiss her. A gentleman would listen to her speak and ask her questions before doing such a thing. And he did want to get to know her. He didn't want her just for her kisses and body.

Ophelia feels a warmth spread through her as Kaillas interlaces his fingers with hers, his soft squeeze bringing a gentle smile to her lips. She appreciates that he’s here for her. It is convenient that there’s only a door seperating them. The knowledge that she has someone she can rely on, someone who genuinely cares for her well-being, means a lot to her.

"As for my free time," She begins after a moment of thought, "I enjoy reading, especially works of fiction." It’s gotten her in trouble more than once. A few of her suitors didn’t take kindly to her interests. One in particular was very….aggressive about it. It’s never stopped her though.

“I also find pleasure in music and playing instruments.” Her childhood was full of learning things that a proper lady should know. That includes a lot of dance, music, and art lessons. She never minded. Thy lessons were always fun and she still finds joy in doing those things now.

She pauses, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I'm open to trying new things too. I'm always up for an adventure or discovering new hobbies. Is there something you enjoy doing that you'd like to share with me?" She would love to spend time with him, doing something he likes.