forum Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)

Started May 08, 2023 by @LolaBug

tune

Kaillas didn't think he had ever slept so soundly. He had fallen asleep with his wife after a night of passion and an admittance of their love. Not only had his night been free of nightmares, he had had wonderful dreams. Which, of course, left his the moment his eyes fluttered open but the warm feeling remained. He just knew it had been a good dream. And highly likely about the woman he was currently holding in his arms.

He had woken up before her as he naturally did. The rays peaking through the curtains were a dead give away that he had slept in. To his standards at least. He was usually up before the morning sun peaked beyond the horizon. It looked to be just about eight in morning based kn the sun, and a quick glance at the clock on the wall told him he was close enough to being right. 7:37. It felt strange to stay in bed instead to dress and go to the training yard. And delectable as his wife was, even she couldn't make him stay in bed. He was too restless.

But this morning was different. He wanted nothing more than to stay right for hours if he could. Unfortunately, they had to get up to send her parents away. Fortunately, her parents were leaving. Any longer and he might have resorted to alcoholism or violence. Or both. He hadn't quite decided yet.

Kaillas curled further around Oohelia, her back to his front. His eyes closed as he took a deep breath her hair. It smelled like her. It made his heart warm inside and a flutter in his stomach. The once feared and terrifying King now reduced to this. And he wasn't even upset about it. Love did strange things to people.

Ophelia stirs gently in her husband's embrace as the warmth of morning sunlight filters through the curtains. Her sleep was peaceful, the kind of serenity she hadn't experienced in years, and it was all thanks to the night they had shared. She nestles closer to Kaillas, reveling in the feeling of his strong arms around her. It's a sensation she never wants to end.

With half-closed eyes, she listens to his steady breathing, the rise and fall of his chest matching the rhythm of his heart. A contented smile graces her lips as she recalls the passion they had shared last night and the whispered words of love they had exchanged. For the first time in a long while, she feels truly cherished, safe in his embrace.

Though Ophelia is usually the early riser, she finds herself wanting to linger in this moment, basking in the love that surrounds them. The clock on the wall serves as a reminder of the world beyond their bedroom, but today, she's in no hurry to face it. Instead, she entwines her fingers with Kaillas', silently reveling in the simplicity of their togetherness.

The thought of her parents' impending departure nudges at the edges of her consciousness. As much as she cherishes this moment with her husband, she knows they must eventually rise to see her parents off. The prospect is exciting. She looks forward to being free of them once again.

Ophelia shifts slightly to face Kaillas, her gaze meeting his with a mixture of love and gratitude. His transformation from a feared and powerful King to the man holding her in his arms speaks volumes about the power of love. It warms her heart to know that he is no longer burdened by the weight of his past, and they can face the future together, a couple bound not just by duty but by a deep and enduring love. With a soft sigh of contentment, she leans in to capture his lips in a tender morning kiss, silently promising that no matter what challenges lie ahead, they will face them together.

As Kaillas felt her awaken, he tightened his grip around her, smiling as he nuzzled his face in her hair. He placed a gentle kiss to her ear before settled back against her. His usual restless self was gone and all he wanted to do was laze away in bed and make love to his wife. Unfortunately, they did have to get up soon. But he would enjoy every minute in bed with her that he could.

He would run a bath for them soon. He liked to wash her, when she allowed him of course. He felt like he was doing something for her, taking care of her. And that was important, especially after their night. He wanted to make sure she was clean and gently care for her. He wanted to wash and brush her hair. And he wanted to check in and make sure she was still feeling alright, physically and mentally. Even though last night hadn't been a rough night, he still wanted to make sure.

He moved his head back as he felt Ophelia shifting in his arms. He smiled down at her and happily accepted her morning kiss. This was how he wanted to be woken up every morning. With a kiss from her. He placed his lips on her forehead next. "Good morning, my love," he murmured, his voice heavy with sleep. "Did you sleep well?"

He rolled them over so that he was laying on his back and she on his chest. He gazed up at her, his expression soft and full of love. His hand slipped up the shirt she was wearing and caressed her back, his fingertips stroking up and down the smooth skin. Her hair was everywhere, the shirt crinkled from sleep. And yet she had never looked more beautiful in his eyes. The only thing that could have made it better were if she was wearing his marks. Unfortunately, it just couldn't be this time.

Ophelia awakens slowly, her senses gradually coming to life as she feels Kaillas's warm embrace around her. The kiss to her ear sends a shiver of pleasure down her spine, and she can't help but smile in response. His presence always brings her comfort and warmth. She nuzzles her face into the crook of his neck, breathing in his familiar scent as she relishes the intimacy of the moment.

At the thought of their impending morning routine, she can't help but sigh While she’s greatly looking forward to being rid of her parents, the actual process won’t be fun. She appreciates his care and attention, especially after the night they shared. The way he wants to take care of her, both physically and emotionally, touches her deeply. It's one of the many reasons she loves him so profoundly.

Ophelia meets his morning kiss with equal affection, her lips soft and lingering against his. "Good morning, darling,” she replies, her voice soft and filled with love. "I slept wonderfully, thanks to you." She gazes into his eyes, feeling a rush of gratitude for the man who's been by her side through thick and thin.

As he rolls them over and she rests her head on his chest, she enjoys the soothing sensation of his hand caressing her back. His touch, gentle and loving, never ceases to make her heart flutter. "You always make waking up a pleasure," she murmurs, her fingers tracing light patterns on his chest.

Kaillas smiled. "Good, I'm glad." He nudged his nose against hers. He didn't know what he would do without her. He didn't know how he had lived before she had come into his life. She was the light of his life. She made everything better. She brightened every room she walked into. Just her smile could lighten anyone's mood.

He wanted every morning to be like this for the rest of their life. He wanted to wake up with soft caresses and sweet words with her. He wanted gentle kisses as they woke up together. And then they would go about their day only to come to bed together each night. He would never tire of this feeling. He would never tire of her. In fact, it was quite the opposite. he would never get enough of her.

He brushed her hair back as she laid her head on his chest. He was careful not to snag any of the tangles in her hair. He would brush it out gently in their bath. He smiled at her words and kissed the top of her head. He gave her a gentle squeeze, communicating just how much he cared for her.

"We need to get out of bed soon. And bathe. We both smell of sex. And as much as I would love to see your parent's horrified faces, I don't think you want them or anyone at court to smell that." His lip was upturned in a smirk, but only because she wasn't looking at him. He was imagining that very image. Her parent's faces, horrified. How entertaining.

Ophelia's heart swells with love as Kaillas's words and affectionate gestures wash over her. The way he expresses his happiness at her restful night's sleep warms her to the core. She gazes into his eyes, losing herself in their depths for a moment. She knows that she has to soak up every moment with him before he returns to the battlefield.

She cant agree more with Kaillas's sentiment about wanting every morning to be like this. There's a sense of completeness in their connection, an unspoken understanding that transcends words. They share a deep bond that goes beyond the physical, and it's moments like these that reinforce that connection.

As Kaillas brushes her hair back, she sighs contentedly, her eyes closing briefly to savor the sensation. His gentle touch is like a soothing balm to her soul, and she revels in his care. When he squeezes her, she nestles even closer to him, feeling cherished and secure in his arms.

His mention of the need for a bath breaks the spell of their cozy moment, and she chuckles softly, her eyes meeting his with a playful glint. "You're right," she concedes, her lips curving into a mischievous smile. "As tempting as it is to scandalize the court, I suppose we should save our reputation today.”

Kaillas grinned in response to her little chuckle. "But only for today, that is. There's still tomorrow. And the day after. And every day for the rest of our lives." He peppered kisses across her cheeks and nose and forehead. Then with a swift movement, he he swung his legs over the bed and got out of bed, cradling Ophelia to his chest.

He strode across the room over to the bathroom. He placed her on the closed toilet lid while he started the bath, adding some salts and bubbles to it once it had reached an acceptable temperature. He had noticed that Ophelia preferred a hotter temperature than he did. So he compromised by turning the bath water to her preferred temperature. He had slowly adjusted to it. And he'd rather be too hot then her too cold.

He stripped himself of his shorts before helping her take off her shirt. He picked her up before stepping into the tub, lowering then both into the water as it continued to fill. He settled her in his lap, her back agaisnt his chest. He wrapped his arms around her as he leaned back against the back of the tub. His hands absent-mindedly stroked her stomach. He placed his chin on the top of her head. They still had some tome before they needed to get ready. They could have a relaxing bath together.

Ophelia listens to Kaillas's sweet words, soaking them up and enjoying how wonderful he is. "Every day for the rest of our lives," she repeats with a dreamy smile, basking in the warmth of his kisses. His affectionate gestures are like a gentle melody, and she feels utterly content in his presence.

As he carries her to the bathroom, she lets out a soft giggle, wrapping her arms around his neck to steady herself. The familiar scent of their bathroom mixed with the enticing aroma of the bathwater soothes her senses. She appreciates the care he takes to ensure the water is at the perfect temperature for her. While most people enjoy a nice hot bath, she likes to practically be boiling in hers. At first she had worried that it would be too uncomfortable for Kaillas but it seems as though he has adjusted.

The moment he joins her in the tub, settling her in his lap with her back against his chest, she leans back with a sigh of bliss. His arms wrapped around her provide the security and warmth she craves, and the sensation of his hands gently stroking her stomach sends shivers of delight through her. They have a few minutes to relax before they need to get ready and she wants to enjoy every second of it.

(You should join the discord if you're not already on it.)

Kaillas sat in a calm silence and tranquil with her. Silence wasn't knew to him but this serenity certianly was. Silence had always been cold and long before to him. Now it was peace and calm and clarity, as long as he was with her. They didn't need to talk for him to enjoy his time with her. He just needed her presence there with him.

Eventually, he did grab the soap and rag, lathering it up. He began to gently wash Ophelia, as he did each time they bathed with one another. He took gentle care as he washed her skin. He wanted to be careful he wasn't too rough on her skin while still ultimately cleaning her. His hands didn't wonder, no matter how tempting certain appendages were to him. His gaze had traveled to her chest more than once. And when he was cleaning another part of her body. He was still a man after all.

He washed her hair next. His fingers massaging hee scalp as he shampooed her and detangling her hair as he added conditioner. He washed them both out of her hair before kissing her cheek. She was done, now it was his turn next. He handed her the soap, a silent question, will you wash me now? He was addicted to the feeling of her hands on his skin. He cohkd almost fall asleep to the soothing feel on her hands on his skin.

(I didn’t know there was a Discord for notebook but I’d love to join)

Ophelia revels in the soothing silence of the moment, wrapped in Kaillas's strong and tender embrace. In his arms, she finds a serene world of contentment, a place where words are unnecessary, where the silent connection between them speaks volumes. She watches the play of light and shadows on the bathroom walls, her senses attuned to the sensation of his hands gently caressing her skin.

His care and attention are evident as he washes her, his touch delicate yet thorough. She closes her eyes, lost in the sensations he evokes, her heart swelling with love for this man who takes such care of her. Her lips curve into a soft smile, even as she senses his occasional fleeting glances.

When it's time for him to be cleaned, she accepts the soap and rag with a knowing look. Her hands, gentle and confident, begin to trace the lines of his body. She savors the feel of his skin beneath her fingertips, the way his muscles ripple beneath her touch. Their shared moments in the bath are an intimate dance of care and affection, a connection that transcends the physical. She leans in to place a tender kiss on his lips, conveying her love and gratitude without the need for words. As she continues to wash him, the bathroom is filled with the sensual scent of soap and the sound of their shared breaths.

(There's a link at the bottom of the page. Click discord and it will take you. I like to spam my cat on there XD)

As Kaillas handed over the soap, he leaned back agaisnt the porcelain tub and let his eyes close, sinking into the feeling of her soft caresses. The feeling of her gentle fingers caused goosebumps to raise. He flexed his muscles under her touch as she traced then, eyes opening to smile cheekily at her. Some of his scars were raised and some were pulled taunt. And some had faded there was only a faint, pale line left.

Perhaps one day he would tell her the story behind each of them. Perhaps one day he would open up that part of himself. He remembered the story behind each of them. He could see them almost vividly, his facial scar the most predominant. This wouldn't go without a bottle of whiskey. Not with the nightmares and memories jt would bring him. He would need the hard liquor to help take the edge off.

Today was not that day. Today they would enjoy this bath, send off her parents, and have cebratory toast that her parents were out if their loves. Then her present should be arriving shortly and he woukd surprise her with it. One last surprise. From him at least. She still had her mountain of gifts to open from his sisters and the court. They'd likely still be finding boxes in a month's time.

(How have I never noticed that? lol And awww gotta love the pet pic spam)

Ophelia's fingers continue their tender exploration of Kaillas's skin, her touch a gentle caress as she washes away the remnants of the night. The play of goosebumps across his skin only encourages her, a testament to the effect she has on him. His scars, like etched memories, are a part of him she longs to understand better, but she knows not to press. They'll share when the time is right, and she'll be there to listen.

She appreciates the serenity of this moment, the quiet intimacy of the bath, and the promise of the day ahead. Their shared future is filled with uncertainties and challenges, but she takes comfort in the small moments of connection, like this one, that remind her of their love. She knows there will be more surprises to come, but for now, she cherishes the simple joy of being close to him.

As the bathwater laps gently around them, she leans in to capture his lips in a sweet and tender kiss. “We should start getting ready,” She murmurs after pulling away. It’s nearly time to send her parents off. As much as she would love to stay in the tub with him forever, that isn’t an option.

(I like using the writing section as well to motivate my responding XD They's got a sprint feature that's a really good motivator.)

Kaillas leaned his head forward to give her a soft kiss as she washed him. Her hands, smooth and soft. He compared their difference every day. Her small, soft body, clear of any scaring or markings. His hard body, littered with scars and callouses he'll carry on him for the rest of his life. Their lives were so vastly different and yet they were each other's perfect half. Perhaps the fates were real and she was his designated soulmate, for he knew of no one else better for him. She was his perfect half.

he accepted the kiss from her, though frowned at her following words. She was right, of course. She was always right. But that didn't mean that he wanted to get out of this bath. not when they were having such a nice time with each other. If he could stay here forever and feel her washing his body he would. He was obsessed with her touch.

"I suppose you're right. The last thing we want is for your parents to burst in here because we're taking so long." He just felt like that was something they would do. And if they did, well, he hoped that they traumatized themselves.

He reached forward and pulled the plug of the drain in the tub. He watched as the water began to drain but he made no move to get out of the bath just yet. instead, he sat back and admired her for a moment. Beautiful, like always. Then he finally gave in with a nod of his head. "Alright, alright, let's go. The sooner we get this over with the sooner you're parents are gone from here."

(Ooh that’s a fun feature!!)

Ophelia feels the warmth of Kaillas's lips against hers and savors the connection, knowing that these simple moments are the ones that make their bond so strong. As she washes him, she can't help but think about the differences between them, their lives, and their experiences. Their love story is a unique one, a merging of two worlds that have given them both a sense of completeness they might never have found otherwise.

She nods in agreement, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "Yes, let's not give my parents the chance to barge in on us. Some things are best left private." She smiles at the thought of her parents being slightly scandalized, although she knows that her mother, in particular, might take it upon herself to give them a lecture on propriety.

When Kaillas pulls the plug to start draining the bath, she watches the water whirl away, feeling the final moments of their shared bath tick away. Her heart swells with affection as she gazes at him, appreciating the beauty of the man before her. "I promise, it won't take long," she says with a teasing grin, as if reassuring him that their time with her parents will be manageable.

As they prepare to leave the bath, Ophelia can't resist giving Kaillas a final kiss, a sweet and lingering one that conveys her love. "Thank you for enduring my parents, Kaillas. I couldn't do this without you." She means every word, and as they step out of the bath and begin getting ready for the day ahead, she knows that, together, they can handle anything that comes their way.

She gets out of the tub and wraps a giant fluffy white towel around herself to dry off a bit before getting dressed.

(Sometimes me and davadio will race on it. It's fun to compare our writing speeds)

Kaillas wasn't quite so sure traumatizing her parents wouldn't be worth it. It just might. And the looks on their faces would be golden. He might just have the palace painter make a portrait of their horrified faces so that he could look at it anytime he needed a pick me up. Alas, it was a little too petty to do and he doubted his lovely wife would approve of his antics. He had promised to be good so he would be.

He pinched her side. "Every minute with them feels like an hour has passed. I honestly don't know how you grew into this wonderful young woman. It certainly wasn't because of them." It was likely because of their lack of attention that she was this way.

He cupped her cheek, stroking it lovingly. "I would endure anything for you, my love." The truth of what lengths he would go for her was terrifying. He would walk across hot coals. He would slaughter cities and kingdoms, if only to keep her safe and by his side. He would rather let the whole world burn around them than let anything happen to his wife. He would rather endure her hatred than suffer without her.

He stepped out of the bath, wrapping a towel around himself so he didn't drip water everywhere. Then he held out his hand to help Ophelia out of the bath, his gaze lingering perhaps a little too long on her chest. It was very distracting. He bundled her in a towel, kissing her forehead as he did so. He released her so that they could both get dressed, dreading every piece of clothing that she put on. He just wanted to drag her back to bed naked and lounge in bed all day.

(That sounds fun! And honestly waaay more productive than anything I try lol)

Ophelia, with her damp hair clinging to her shoulders, lets out a soft, playful laugh as Kaillas pinches her side. "I must have developed a thick skin to survive them," she jokes, her eyes filled with affection. His cupped cheek feels warm against her own, and she leans into his touch, savoring the love in his eyes.

As he steps out of the bath and offers his hand, she takes it with a small, grateful smile. She catches his lingering gaze, her cheeks flushing slightly as she meets his eyes. Though it makes her feel flustered, she always appreciates that appreciative gaze of his. The moment he wraps her in a towel, she feels a shiver of warmth run through her.

Getting dressed is a reluctant necessity, and every layer of clothing feels like an unwanted barrier between them. Ophelia mirrors Kaillas's longing, yearning for the comfort of their bed. "One day," she whispers with a teasing glint in her eye, "we'll have a day all to ourselves, without the world's interruptions."

With a lingering kiss, she continues to dress, knowing that their responsibilities await them, even if their desires are momentarily thwarted. It only takes her a few minutes to pull on her dress and get to work on her hair.

Kaillas would hold her to that promise. That's all he wanted, was one day free of interruptions. He didn't think that was so hard to ask for and yet they could never seem to find it. Their honeymoon hadn't counted. They had been like this on their honeymoon. They hadn't been true lovers just yet. And he had organized plenty of things to do throughout their honeymoon, until it was interrupted. He didn't want to do any activities that had to be taken outside of the bedroom.

He dressed rather quickly, pulling on a clean pair of trousers, a simple cotton shirt and a plain doublet over. Nothing fantastic and nothing near as beautiful as he had worn last night. It was simple ad clean and respectable. And something her parents hopefully wouldn't comment on. Because he had plenty of things he could say right back to them. Like how they were keeping him out of bed with darling girl.

He waited on the bed for her as he pulled on his shoes. He found that he liked watching her do the most mundane tasks, such as getting ready for the day. He could watch her do things for an eternity and never bore.

"You look beautiful as always darling," he said as she applied the final touches. He held his hand out to her from her he was seated, waiting for her to come to him.

Ophelia takes her time getting dressed, relishing the moments of quiet before they plunge into the chaos of the day. She selects a simple yet elegant gown, one that will appease her parents without being over the top. Her fingers deftly fasten buttons and adjust fabric, her mind wandering back to their honeymoon. A soft sigh escapes her lips as she remembers the stolen moments in that private paradise. It all ended much too soon.

As she finishes preparing herself, she gazes into the mirror, a fond smile playing on her lips. Kaillas's words warm her heart. "You're not too shabby yourself," she teases, crossing the room to take his hand. The warmth of his touch sends a thrill down her spine, reminding her of the countless times they've shared these intimate moments.

She cherishes these moments when it's just the two of them, away from the prying eyes of the world. She can see the desire in Kaillas's eyes, and it mirrors her own. But for now, they must attend to their duties. They’ll be rid of her parents soon enough.

The day's duties and responsibilities beckon, but in this brief interlude, they savor the connection they share. Ophelia leans down to kiss him gently, her lips soft and inviting. "Let's get this over with, shall we?”

Kaillas took her hand as she reached it out to him and brought it to his lips. He placed a gentle kiss on the back of her hand, eyes trained on her face as he did so. His wife's beauty could rival that of the gods, but he was smart enough to keep that comment to himself. He heard the myths and legends of their rath when compared with mortals. He wouldn't dare set any of them on his precious wife.

"Thank you, my love. I need to at least try to look as though I'm worthy to stand by your side. My usual clothes just won't cut it anymore." He stood, placing her hand on the crook of his arm so he could lead her out of their rooms.

"Let's, darling. And be rid of our thorn in our side." And he prayed that with her parent's absent presence, she would feel more comfortable to be herself out int he public's eye. He could see how tense she was during all the gatherings where her parents were present. He had seen the shift in her the days leading up to their arrival. He hoped that now she would be able to relax now that she was out of their scrutiny.

He perhaps walked a little slower than need be through the halls, savoring his last few moments alone with his wife before they joined the little farewell party made of the members of the council to see off her parents.

Ophelia's heart flutters at the warmth of Kaillas' lips on her hand, and she meets his gaze with a fond and appreciative smile. His affectionate gesture fills her with a sense of adoration for the man she's chosen to share her life with. His words are a sweet melody to her ears, and she knows that she's found a true partner who values her beyond her external beauty.

As she allows him to guide her, their connection deepens with the touch of his arm beneath her hand. She can't help but feel a wave of gratitude for his understanding and support. It's as though he can read her very soul, recognizing the unease she has often felt in her parents' presence. She can finally be herself, her guard down, when not under their scrutinizing gaze.

In these precious moments, Ophelia cherishes the quiet intimacy she shares with Kaillas, knowing that the world beyond their door is waiting. She leans in a little closer, her eyes reflecting her love and appreciation. The thought of parting ways with her parents, who had been a constant presence, is bittersweet, but she's ready to embrace the new chapter in her life, unburdened by their expectations and judgments.

As they walk through the halls, she marvels at the peaceful serenity of the castle, so different from the tense gatherings of the past. The weight of her parents' influence is fading away, and she finds herself feeling lighter, free to be the woman she wants to be alongside the man she loves. These moments alone with Kaillas are a sanctuary of love and understanding, and she can't help but look forward to the future, unburdened by the thorns of the past.

It isn’t long before they arrive in the courtyard. Everyone else has gathered so it seems as though they’re a little late. Oh well. It was well worth it to spend those few extra minutes with him.

Kaillas ignored the disapproving look from Ambrose and the rest of his council. Some were more subtle than other. And the looks wouldn't have gone unnoticed from the visiting king and queen. However, he didn't care. He was the king. And if that meant he couldn't be late some mornings than what was the point of the crown? He wasn't late. He always arrived exactly when he wanted to, which meant he was on time and everyone else was early.

He stopped in front of Ophelia's crown, the warm smile now absent on his lips. They did not deserve his smiles or any looks of kindness from him. They should be grateful he let them stay here. It was oh so tempting to house them in the stables for the night. Unfortunately, he couldn't afford to be fighting another enemy. One was more than enough for him right now.

He didn't speak, rather letting his wife do the talking for him. He wasn't in a talking mood. At least not to them. Not when they were the reason his wife had to put on clothes and they had to leave their rooms.

He looked down at his wife, some warmth returning to his eyes as he gazed upon her. All he had to do was look at her and she affected him. If only she truly knew what she did to him.

Ophelia stands composed, her parents before her and her husband by her side, though the tension in the air is palpable. She acknowledges the disapproving looks from the council with a practiced politeness, her gaze cool and distant. Their judgment has grown all too familiar over the years, but she's learned not to let it affect her demeanor.

"Thank you for your visit, Mother, Father," Ophelia utters with an air of civility. Her smile is strained but graceful, concealing the discord that often simmers beneath the surface. She's relieved that their departure is imminent. The weight of her parents' expectations and demands has always been a source of strain for her, and she looks forward to reclaiming her freedom.

As her eyes meet her father's, she offers a nod, acknowledging the lessons he's imparted throughout her life. She has grown into her own person, shaped not only by her parents' teachings but also by her own choices and experiences. The life she's forged with Kaillas is a testament to her independence and determination.

The king and queen stand at the grand entrance of the castle, their expressions carefully composed, as they bid farewell to their daughter. The golden rays of the morning sun cast a warm glow upon the scene. With regal grace, they exchange polite words and affectionate gestures, but there is an underlying disapproval in their eyes. Their daughter, resplendent in her elegant gown, has chosen a path divergent from their expectations, and they cannot hide their disappointment.

Though they leave without a fuss, this is far from over. Their plans have merely just begun.

Kaillas inclined his head in a way that communicated he seconded his wife's words. He should say something. That would be the kingly thing to do. To bid them farewell and wish them safe travels. And he was a king. So he really should do just that. Even if it killed him inside to do it. Civility. He promised to be civil. And he would hold up his end of the bargain.

"Thank you for joining us and celebrating Ophelia's birthday. I hope your journey home is a quick one." He hoped that they would leave quickly. The sooner they left the better. The guards would feel at ease and so would Kaillas. Likely the whole court would. They never had done well with outsiders. Not for years. Not even before his family's assassination, though it was better before those events transpired.

He didn't raise a hand and wave them off. He merely stood there with a stoic face as they got into their carriage and rose off past the gates. He only exhaled and relaxed, if only slightly, as they disappeared from view. He turned to his wife, smiling. "Now that they are gone, I have one last surprise in store for you. Are you ready?"

He was perhaps even more excited about this surprise than the one last night. Last night he had been riddled with nerves and anxiety. He hadn't known the outcome. This one, he did. At least to a point, that was. He knew she would love it.

Ophelia smiles gracefully as she listens to her husband's words, well aware of the internal struggle he faces. She appreciates his effort to maintain decorum and civility, especially with their departing guests. It truly is hard to remain civil with her parents. She places a reassuring hand on his arm, a silent acknowledgment of the complexities they navigate. "Thank you," she says, her voice warm and gentle. "I'm sure we won’t be seeing them again for quite some time." She knows the discomfort the presence of her parents can bring to the court, and she, too, is relieved to see them depart.

As the carriage disappears beyond the castle gates, her gaze follows it for a moment, then turns to her husband, curious about the surprise he promises. His smile ignites her curiosity, and she nods eagerly. "I'm ready, Kaillas," she replies, her eyes filled with anticipation. Last night’s surprise can’t possibly be topped, but she still cant help but wonder what he has in store for her now. Her heart swells with affection for her king, who always knows how to make her feel cherished.

Though she certainly didn’t expect yet another surprise, she has to admit that she’s curious. Everything else was truly spectacular so whatever this is must be amazing as well. Whatever it is, she's certain it will be as thoughtful and heartfelt as everything else, and she's eager to experience it. She knows that, in Kaillas, she has not just a king but a loving partner who continually finds ways to make her feel special. And as he leads her toward the next surprise, her heart flutters with excitement and love for the man who's made her life a fairytale.

Kaillas hoped that he would never see them again, but even he knew that was wistful thinking. As soon as news came that she was with child, they would be right back on their way here. Or perhaps they would wait until the child was born. He knew they valued boys over girls. Though quite frankly, Kaillas was hoping they would have a girl first. He was hoping they would have a horde of little girls for him to spoil and love. But as long as the baby was happy and healthy, he would be alright with whatever they had.

"I hope you're right darling." He turned to look down at her. He felt like he needed a few years before he would be ready to face them and deal with them. And even that might not be enough time. All he wanted to do was grab them by the shoulders and shake them while yelling at them for what they had done wot his beautiful wife. She was intelligent and kind and made a great queen. She would have been a wonderful ruler, if only they had passed the crown to her instead of some cousin. But it was too late now. They had given her to him and he wasn't letting her go.

He grinned down at her. Instead of leading her back into the palace, he led her around the side to the stables. This wasn't any present he could fit inside the palace. Well, he could, but he might terrify some countries and maid staff. And he like his staff a little too much to want to scare them away with this.

Ophelia gazes up at Kaillas, her heart heavy with the knowledge of what might be awaiting them. Her parents will be back. That much is certain. The moment it’s announced that she’s with child, they’ll regain interest in her existence. Whether or not they show up during or pregnancy or after the birth remains unknown. Either way, she is not looking forward to it. Especially if the child is a girl. While Kaillas would be delighted to have a daughter, she does not look forward to the grief her parents would give her. She intertwines her fingers with his and offers a reassuring smile, not wanting to think about that.

As they walk towards the stables, she notices the gleam in his eyes and can't help but feel curious. She's always appreciated his penchant for surprises. "What have you got hidden in those stables, Kaillas?” she asks with a playful glint in her eyes, her thoughts momentarily distracted from the looming challenges ahead.

Once they reach the stables, she follows him inside, the scent of hay and the sound of horses providing a soothing atmosphere. She looks forward to being able to see Cheesecake, even if that isn’t the point of this visit. The stallion always brings a smile to her face with his sweet and loving nature.

Kaillas just gave her a grin. He wasn't saying a word until they got inside the stables where her present was awaiting her. Obviously, some of them would have to be relocated but the stables was just the easiest place to bring them all. She could decide what to do with them all when she finally saw them.

As they neared the stables, he stopped and placed his hands over her eyes. "Trust me," he murmured, kissing her cheek. The closer they neared, the more his present was giving themselves away. He should have known the canaries and doves wouldn't be able to keep quiet. They were birds. It was a little hard to train them to be quiet.

Once they entered the stables, he removed his hands and stepped back. The animal transporter was standing there with cages of three gods, four cats, and a handful of doves and canaries. He smiled down at Ophelia. "I did say I was good at getting what I wanted, darling." It had taken perhaps a little more arguing and better trade negotiations to get them but he had done it. For his wife, he would do anything.