Ophelia smiles when Katya agrees. It’s been a little while since she’s done someone else’s hair so she’s admittedly pretty excited about this. “Come into the bathroom and take a seat,” She says with a hum, already trying to think about what hairstyle to do.
She goes over to the vanity in the bathroom and pulls out the stool for Katya to sit on. She then goes through a few drawers and picks out some supplies that she thinks will work best for the texture and length of hair that she’s going to be working with.
“Do you know what you want me to do with your hair?” If Katya isn’t sure, then she has plenty of ideas of her own. Either way, she’s happy to do anything. This is going to be a nice change for them to bond with each other.
Katya followed after her into the bedroom, looking around to see the few things that had changed. She had been surprised when Ophelia had returned and took to her brother's chambers instead of her own. Surprised but thought it sweet. And knew it was something Kaillas would do.
She sat down in the stool in front if the vanity, trying not to cringe at her appearance. Her eyes were still slightly red and swollen and there were noticeable bags under them. Her skin was a bit paler than usual. And her normal glow had dimmed. Too much had happened and yet so little had at the same time.
She shrugged her shoulders. She didn't mind. "Nist something to keep it out of my face. I'm going to garden today." She want to deal with co Stanly trying to push her hair back, only to get dirt and grime and other things in it.
Ophelia has merely added a few of her own touches. All of Kaillas’ stuff is still here and now she’s got a few of her own things as well. She thought is that they mesh pretty well together but she may be biased about that. She can’t imagine going back to living in her old room now. It would just feel wrong.
Once everything is out on the counter, she steps behind Katya and takes a closer look at her hair. “I’ll be sure to get it up and out of your face,” She assures it. She can imagine that it must be troublesome to constantly be fighting hair while gardening. She’s happy to take care of that for her.
She starts by adding some detangling solution to Katya’s hair and working that in. She wants to make brushing it as pain free as possible. Once the solution has been properly added, she gets ready to brush out the knots and tangles. “Let me know if this hurts.”
Katya sat quietly in the chair. She was thankful for the near silence. She didn't really want to talk about what was bothering her, at least not with Ophelia. Not yet, that was. As wonderful as it was to have her here, she still didn't know the queen all that well. There were some things, especially in regards to this, that she refused to talk about with anyone that wasn't family. Her blood family.
"Okay," she simply said. She wouldn't say anything, though. She had learned to put up with the brushing and tangles and pulling every morning. While it hurt, she had long learned to deal with it. Along with a great many other things.
She didn't make a sound as Ophelia brushed her hair. She may have winced once or twice but sat generally well. It wasn't necessarily that she had a touch scalp, more so that she was used to the pain as her maids brushed her hair every morning. The detangling solution helped some and she was grateful for it.
Ophelia gently brushes through Katya's long hair, each stroke of the brush gliding smoothly through the silky strands once she’s managed to wrestle out all of the tangles. She doesn’t mind the silence. In her eyes, if Katya wishes to discuss something with her then she will. She will not badger her about anything.
Once the brushing is complete, Ophelia gathers the hair, section by section, and begins delicately braiding it. Her nimble fingers weave the strands together, creating an intricate pattern that is both practical and beautiful. While she wants to ensure that the hair is out of the way, she also wants Katya to enjoy the hairstyle she’s created.
The process continues with a sense of reverence, as if Ophelia were crafting a masterpiece. With each plait, she incorporates subtle twists and turns. The finished product is three intricate braids woven together to create an elegant undo, nearly twisted into a bun. She weaves in a dainty ribbon and then stops, not wanting to go too crazy. “All done.”
Katya watched with growing fascination as Ophelua did her hair. She seemed to enjoy doing her hair, instead of the maid's that did it begrudgingly. Her maids did it because they had to. She had thought about going to Kaillas for new maids but hadn't wanted to bother him. But…seeing her hair, she should. She should have someone that wanted to do her hair and help her, not just because they had to.
She smiled up at Ophelia, that light returning to her eyes. She twisted in the stoll to look up at her. "Thank you," she said, her voice sounding a bit better. "Will you teach me how to braid?"
Everything had always been done for her. She was never really taught anything other than how to change and dress herself. She had forced her way into learning how to garden. She had to threaten to bring her bother out there for the gardeners to let her stay.
Ophelia smiles back at Katya, relieved that she seems to be doing a bit better. She’s glad that she’s been able to help, even if only a little. It’s been nice to spend some one on one time with her new sister-in-law. Granted, they haven’t done much talking but she feels like this is a step in the right direction.
“I would be delighted to teach you how to braid,” She agrees sincerely. She knows quite a few fun braids and she’s happy to share that knowledge with Katya. “If there’s ever anything you want me to teach you, I’d be more than happy to.” Hair, makeup, sewing, music, or even some light baking. She has a few different topics that she’s well versed in.
She always had maids doing everything for her when she was young. After her brother died, her parents stopped minding the maids so in turn, they spent less time doing her hair and things like that. She learned on her own after much trial and error. She’s gotten pretty good at most of it, she’s happy to admit to that.
Katya nodded her head. She wasn't sure how much of that she would actually take her up on, but it woukd be nice to learn how to do her own hair. Even if it was just the basics. She had her lessons and her gardening and that was about it. Her education took up most of her days though she knew no one would blame her for skipping the next couple of days.
She hopped up off the stool, looking up at Ophelia once more. "I'm going to get dressed and then maybe we can go to the kitchens? The cook always sneaks me extra food, and we missed breakfast." She shrugged her shoulders and look down at her feet, shifting on them. She was fully prepared to take the rejection.
As much as she loved her brother, he didn't always have time for her. He denied her plenty of times to hang out because he had kingly duties to attend to. It was the life of a royal she supposed, never getting free time or a chance to spend with family. It was a lonely one.
Ophelia observes Katya's hopeful expression and senses the yearning for connection and companionship. She understands the loneliness that comes with being part of the royal family, with responsibilities and duties overshadowing personal moments. It can be overwhelming and lonely so it’s always good to take advantage of moments like this one.
A soft smile graces her lips as she gives a nod. "That sounds like a wonderful idea, Katya," She replies warmly. "I would love to join you for a trip to the kitchens. I’ll meet you out in the hallway in about five minutes and then we can go.”
While she may be dressed, she still needs to take a minute to pull back her hair and put on a little makeup. Now that she’s queen, she has to take time to ensure that she always looks presentable. Gossip can be killer. She doesn’t want to give anyone a reason to talk or start a rumor. It would be very bad for her this early on.
Katya beamed, her nightmares temporarily forgotten. There weren't any girls her age jn the palace and even fewer that would spend time with her occasionally. They normally flocked to Elora until they learned that she didn't put up with most courtly goings. She had long believed that neither she nor her sister truly belonged in the palace. They were both free spirits that would rather do anything but royal duties. Besides planning balls and parties and such.
She hurried off to her room, her bare feet padding along the floor. The guards didn't so much as glance ger twice. She was thankful for it. She didn't want to see any looks of pity in their eyes. She dressed quickly in a simple gown with laces she coukd easily tie herself. Not a corset. She didn't particularly like those, thought Elora enjoyed them.
She slipped her feet into some slippers then walked out in the hall when the five minutes were up. Her stomach was rumbling so loud that guard spared her a second glance with an eyebrow raised. She only blushed in response.
Ophelia pulls her hair back into a French braid. It looks elegant and it will keep all of her hair out of her face. She puts on a little makeup and then she’s good to go. Though today will be causal, she has to ensure that she looks proper at all times. There’s no telling who she could run into. As much as she would love to properly relax and wear whatever she wants, she knows that she needs to be careful.
Once ready to go, she leaves her room and heads into the hallway to meet Katya. Spotting her, she offers a smile. “Ready?” It’ll be nice to peacefully enjoy some food with her sister-in-law. Formal meals are nice but sometimes she prefers to gather up some snacks and scurry off to a quiet place so she can eat without having to be prim and proper.
Following Katya’s gaze, she notices the look on the guard’s face and raises her brows. She feels like she’s missing something but she’s not sure what. Oh well. She’ll ask about it later. It doesn’t seem like a pressing matter so she’s not overly concerned about it.
Katya raised her head as she heard footsteps padding towards her. She offered a smile to the queen, though perhaps slightly dimmer than it had been before. She nodded her head once. She was ready.
And hungry. Her stomach growled again, loud. She walked down the corridor, letting her feet guide her more than her eyes. She could walk the halls with her eyes closed. She had lived here all her life. She was rarely away from it. At least not long enough for it to count in any measure.
Quickly enough, they made it down to the kitchens where all she had to do was give the cook a sweet smile and she was given some extra sweets from breakfast. "Let's eat in the garden," she suggested. She wanted to breathe the fresh air.
Ophelia observes Katya's slightly dimmed smile, slightly concerned now. The girl had seemed fine when they parted a mere five minutes ago. She understands that Katya has been going through a lot lately, and it is evident in her demeanor. Nonetheless, she had thought they had a minor break through.
As they walk down the familiar corridors, she heaes Katya's stomach growling. She can’t help but chuckle softly, realizing. Understanding the desire for fresh air, she agrees happily with the suggestion to eat outside.
"Eating in the garden sounds wonderful," she replies with a warm smile. She appreciates the beauty of the royal gardens and believes that a change of scenery would do both of them good. She follows Katya as they make their way to the gardens, the scent of flowers and the sound of birdsong filling the air.
There’s peaceful spot under the shade of a large tree, where a low stone wall is placed. It seems perfect for their snack. The garden is a serene sanctuary away from the worries and responsibilities of the kingdom. She takes a seat and motioned for Katya to join her.
Katya felt like she could breathe a little better as soon as they stepped out of the palace. It was stuffy in there, and not just because if the torches constantly burning. She took a deep breath, breathing in the fresh air and plants. The plants that she had planted and attended too. Her beauty.
A small smile returned to her lips, genuine this time. She felt like a weight was lifting off her shoulders a little bit. She found peace out here. It was quiet. The only thing to be heard was the occasional rustling of wind and quiet murmuring of workers and courtiers alike passing through.
She found a little metal picnic table for them to eat their breakfast. She took a seat, facing the rising sun. It felt good to feel the heat on her cheeks. She wanted until the queen was sat across from her before beginning to eat her breakfast. Her growling stomach seemed content now that it was being fed.
As Ophelia sits at the metal picnic table, a gentle breeze swept through the palace gardens, carrying the fragrance of blooming flowers and the faint sound of chirping birds. The late morning sunlight casts a golden glow on everything around them, creating a serene atmosphere. It’s so peaceful out here.
She happily digs into her food, enjoying the unique and amazing flavors as they flood her mouth. She hums happily, glad that they thought to do this. It’s also greatly appreciated on her end that the chefs were willing to give them some food after they missed breakfast.
"This is lovely, Katya," Ophelia comments, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "The gardens are truly beautiful. You’ve done such a wonderful job with all of the plants and flowers.” They never had anything this nice back at yet home kingdom.
Katya raised her head as she heard Ophelia. She hadn't been expecting her to speak, much less about her garden. Not many asked about it. Elora didn't care for such things. She'd rather be with her guard that she thought no one knew about. It was alright. She would keep her secret. And her brother was so busy. He tried to make time for her but she understood. She was always understanding.
"Thank you," she said softly. "The spoil here is rich and perfect for gardening." And farming, which was their main source of income. "It took awhile to learn but I find I'm more comfortable out here than stuffed in there."
The palace. Where the walls closed in on her sometimes. Where she was forced to wear dresses and a crown and behave a certain way. She didn't like it. She wanted to one day find a cottage by herself and live there for the rest of her days in peace. She knew Kaillas would never allow that.
Ophelia finds the garden to be spectacular. It’s one of her favorite places in the palace. The beautiful flowers and just how well maintained everything is always puts her at ease. It’s the perfect place to get away from the madness. She can see why Katya enjoys being out here so much. If she weren’t a notorious plant killer, she’d ask the girl to let her help out on occasion.
“I can certainly see why. The palace is lonely but at times it feels suffocating, like a cage. And a glided cage is still a cage.” She knows just what she means. Even though they were both born into this, there’s nothing to stop them from longing for a different life. Being entangled in the snares of court and politics isn’t a life that everyone wishes to have.
“What would you want to do with your life had you not been born royalty?” The question sounds loaded. She realizes that after she’s asked. She means nothing by it, she’s merely curious. Even a blind fool could see that Katya isn’t entirely happy with her life here.
Katya spent as much time put here as she could manage. Between her lessons and royal duties, she didn't always have a lot of time but she made do. And when she wasn't there, she had specific duties for the gardners to do. As if it wasn't already their job to maintain the gardens. She coukd get a little protective over them. Kaiklas had to have a talk with her one day because she was scaring the staff.
She looked at Ophelia for a quiet moment before nodding her head. "Kaillas doesn't alway see it that way. He's trying to protect us, which I get, but he puts us on a glass pedestal sometimes. It's just hard. This whole…situation makes this hard and difficult."
They would never be safe. Not truly. They were royals. Someone was always going to be out to kill them. If not this then soemthung else. Even she understood that. She still wanted to be allowed to love her life. But customs and tradition prevented her from leaving the palace. Kaillas gave her as much roam as he could, letting her garden and such. But she felt like she would never truly be free until she left. She only hoped she married a man who accepted her passions.
Ophelia listens attentively to Katya's words, her expression empathetic and understanding. She knows all too well the struggles and conflicts that came with being a royal. The weight of duty and the constant need for protection can suffocate one's personal desires and aspirations. She hopes that both Katya and Elora will have the opportunity to live their lives the way they want to.
"It’s a difficult balance you have to maintain, Katya," She replies softly. "The desire for freedom and the longing to pursue your passions can often clash with the responsibilities that come with your position. I know how frustrating it must be to feel confined within the palace walls."
“Kallias loves you and your sister so much. If he could find a way to let you two do what you want and still be safe, he would let you do it.” She’s certain of that. Unfortunately, with how things are in the kingdom right now, it’s not an option. It like won’t ever be an option.
Where Elora was a free spirit, Katya was a gentle soul. She pittied the soldier that loved the princess. Her sister was more than a handful but she had seen the looks he gave her, even when they thought no one was looking. She had seen how he had pined for her long before the princess had noticed.
Katya wanted nothing more than a warm home and to be surrounded by the people she loved. The palace just wasn't that. Not with vultures hovering or the snakes aiming to strike. She hoped one day she would get out of there, even if she would miss her brother.
She of course knew that Kaillas meant only the best for her. She didn't believe he did anything to purposely stifle her. "I know," she said quietly. "It's still hard. I don't remember then much, I was so young. But I still feel the void where my parents and brother used to live."
While Ophelia truly understands her frustrations about living in the palace and having so many expectations set on her, she can’t even imagine what it’s like to have lost so much family. Her brother died while she was quite young. While she does mourn his loss, her memories of him aren’t strong or necessarily fond so she doesn’t know what it’s like for Katya, Elora, and Kaillas.
“I am truly sorry for the loss of your parents and brother. It can’t have been easy to lose them.” She feels terrible that this family had to go through so much. What makes matters worse is that their troubles aren’t even over yet. The threat of war is looming over the kingdom like a dark cloud.
“I know that you don’t know me very while but if you ever want to talk, I’m here.” The offer has been made and she won’t push more than that. It’s surprising that Katya is willing to open up this much to her and she doesn’t want to ruin the progress that they’ve made so far.
Katya had been only seven when her parents and eldest brother had been lost to them. She didn't remember much of them. She couldn't remember her mother's laugh or her father's hugs. She didn't remember her brother more than the mere Kat on her head. The only reason she remembered what they looked like was because of the portraits hanging on the walls. Without them, she woukd have long forgotten what they looked like.
She sometimes realized that people had forgotten who had found her parents dead. It wasn't by any guard or staff. It had been Katya. She had a bad dream and had gone to sleep with her parents. She remembered sneaking through the door and climbing into bed. Climbing into their blood. She could still hear her own screams, remembered how sore it made her throat.
"Thank you," she said. She didn't know if she would take Ophelia up on that. It was a lot to go through and the queen was still so new to her. To them. She had I herniated a broken kingdom. She wondered if she could fix it.
Ophelia doesn't say anything else. She knows very little about the actual night that everything happened. Understandably, no one wishes to discuss it so her knowledge is limited to just knowing that the king, queen, and prince were murdered. She doesn't know any details.
The family has been through so much and though she wishes that she could help, she knows that her options are limited. The girls have a lot of bottled up emotions and they don't wish to talk to her about them. Which is fine. She completely understands. They haven't known each other for long so she doesn't expect them to trust her with such personal thoughts and feelings. She just wants them to know that if they ever feel comfortable with doing so, she's here to listen.
Now that they've settled into silence, she looks up at the sky. It's gotten pretty late in the day. They've been out here for much longer than she realized. She hopes that things are going well for Elora and Kaillas. Honestly, she's not sure if they're actually attempting to hunt or if they're just talking. Either way, it'll be good for them.
Katya noticed the Queen's gaze and tilted her head upward as well. She saw how far the sun had moved in the sky and realized they'd been out there longer than she had thought. She hadn't finished her food and knew she wouldn't. Her appetite had begun to dissappear with their talk.
"Don't take it personal," she said quietly. "You're new. To all of us. It will take time for us to get comfortable around you. Things will get better in time." Assuming that Kaillas didn't go away to war and die. That would make things so much more complicated.
"Let's take a walk. I'll bet by the time we're done they'll be back." Kaillas and Elora. She knew her sister and knew she woukd be hungry for lunch soon. And not whatever provisions they had brought but good food from the cook.
Ophelia glances over to Katya and offers a soft smile. “Don’t worry, I’m not taking anything personally,” She assures her. “I don’t except anyone to trust me after only knowing me for a few weeks.” Even after they’ve known her for years, she doesn’t expect anything from her sister-in-laws. They’ll decide for themselves what they think about her and she’ll accept whatever their decisions are.
“A walk sounds nice.” This conversation has run its course so it’ll be good to move around and take some time to just be in each others’ presence. She hopes that the morning they’ve spent together has helped them to bond but she honestly has no idea what Katy’s is thinking of feeling right now.
She stands up and brushes off her dress. While she didn’t eat all of her food, she did get some crumbs on herself from what she did eat. “Lead the way. You know your way around better than I do.” Katya will know all of the best paths.
