forum Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)

Started May 08, 2023 by @LolaBug

tune

Kaillas leaned into her hand, kissing her palm. He gave her a soft smile. "Do not worry about me, darling. I'll be alright. Just enjoy today." He made to stand, making a face as his knees cracked as he stood. It had been a few days since he had hit the training yard. And it would likely be a few more days until he could go again. He certainly wouldn't have time today. He doubted he would have time tomorrow either. Perhaps after that, his schedule would clear up enough that he would have some time int he morning before breakfast to hit the training yard.

"Stay here as long as you like. Enjoy yourself, love. I'll be in my office if you need me." He brushed back her hair, the only affection he was willing to give her in front of the handler. He had already seen too much, what with his soft kisses on her head and hand. He didn't want to let him see anymore.

With one last look, he turned on his heels and left the stables. He walked back to the palace alone and went straight to his office. He hadn't had breakfast yet but he found he wasn't all that hungry. The stack of paperwork on his desk made him lose his appetite. He truly did despite sitting at his office all day.

Ophelia smiles warmly at Kaillas, her heart filled with love and gratitude. She appreciates his reassurances and his understanding of her need to spend time with her beloved pets. As he stands and mentions his office, her smile widens, and she reaches out to squeeze his hand affectionately.

"Thank you, Kaillas. I'll stay here for a while and bask in the joy of having my pets back. Don't work too hard, though," she advises him with a playful glint in her eyes, though she is truly concerned about him. She understands the weight of his responsibilities and wants him to take care of himself.

As he leaves the stables, she watches him with a mix of love and worry, knowing that his dedication to his duties can be quite demanding. She hopes that, in the midst of his responsibilities, he finds moments of peace and rest. Then, she turns her attention back to her animals, savoring every moment of their reunion, knowing that her husband's thoughtfulness and her cherished pets have filled her day with happiness.

Oh, there was no question about how much Kaillas was going to work. He had a bad habit of getting caught up in his work and letting time fly by him. Less so now that Ophelia was in his life, but still easy enough to do. And this would be one of those days. He knew it as soon as he saw all the paper work. So he grabbed a pen and got to work.

It was one of the draw backs about pulling his curtains shut, blocking out the world beyond the windows. He couldn't tell time. And he would get so engrossed in his work hat he wouldn't even look up at the clock in his office to check on it. It wasn't done intentionally. But when he got in the headspace to do work, he had to block out all distractions and just get to it. Otherwise, nothing would ever get done. His staff knew better than to disturb him while he was working. They only interrupted him if it was an emergency.

The candles were replaced and lunch went untouched on the coffee table in his office. The coffee table with the twin couches rarely ever got used. And the bookshelf was lined with dozens of books. Mostly politics and war books. A couple personal books. Books that had gone untouched for far too long.

Ophelia's entire day is a joyful adventure with her beloved pets. Monty, her gentle Mastiff, accompanies her on a morning walk, while Honey, the Pomeranian, frolics beside her. Willow, the energetic Springer Spaniel, leads the way with boundless enthusiasm.

Timothy, the orange cat, curls up on her lap as she reads a book, while Cannoli, the calico, purrs contentedly. Bat, the black cat, weaves through her legs, keeping her company.

Chili and Pepper, the inseparable rabbits, hop around the garden, and Ophelia enjoys watching their antics. The canaries, Sunny, Maple, Lily, Risotto, Charlie, and Pebble, provide a melodic soundtrack as they fill the air with their sweet songs.

Throughout the day, Ophelia cherishes the moments with her pets, feeling the unconditional love and happiness they bring into her life.

The hours pass and both lunch and dinner go by without her seeing her husband. Despite trying to go up there and collect him several times, she was stopped by the staff. They didn’t want her to interrupt his work, much to her annoyance.

It isn’t until the staff is busy cleaning up from dinner that she’s able to slip away without them noticing.

With a graceful step, she makes her way through the stone corridors, the flickering torches casting a warm, golden light on the centuries-old tapestries that adorn the walls. As she ascends a spiral staircase, the distant murmur of the castle's staff and the clinking of armor create a symphony of life echoing through the halls.

Reaching her husband's office, she gently pushes open the ornate wooden door, revealing a room adorned with antique books and richly carved furniture.

(I feel like I can only respond to my rps now when I sprint on discord)

Kaillas was unaware of the time that had gone by. The blinds had been pulled and no sunlight was able to escape. The staff had brought him food at some point int he day but he had been so engrossed in his work that he hadn't noticed them. It wasn't until the food was already cold that he saw it was there. And by then, he still had no appetite for any food. If he ate, he would have to stop working. And it was easier to get all of this done so none of it would have to be worried about tomorrow. He didn't want to have to deal with it tomorrow. It's better to knock it all out now than stretch it out over a few days.

He didn't hear as the door opened. It was quiet, to his request. When he had first taken over the office, the door had been loud and squeaky. No matter what he had done to it, the sound would not go away. So he commissioned a new door, the quietest that he could find. Loud noises were a distraction to him. And he refused to be distracted while he worked. As much as he hated the paperwork, it needed to be done. And there was no one else who could do it but himself.

Trade agreements to sign off on, budget cuts, new laws, complaints, and so much more. All of it demanded his attention. He had ignored it the past few days for Ophelai's birthday and now he was paying the price. Along with her work that he had taken over as well. He had done hers first so she wouldn't have top worry about it. But now he was behind on his own work. Then again, he was never really caught up. A king's work was never done.

(Do you use the sprints to write your replies?)

Ophelia slips into the room with a soft, careful grace, her footsteps nearly inaudible on the plush carpet. Her heart aches as she observes Kaillas hunched over the paperwork, surrounded by a fortress of stacked documents and plates piled high with no cold food. It seems as though he hasn't eaten a single thing all day. His dedication is unwavering, but she knows that he's pushing himself to the brink. She lingers in the doorway, watching her husband with a mixture of love and concern, her presence a silent reassurance that she's there for him.

She moves closer, her gaze fixed on the papers before him, her brow furrowing with concern. She understands the weight of responsibility that Kaillas carries on his shoulders, and she admires his commitment to his people. However, she sees the effect that it has on him. Her voice is soft and soothing as she speaks, "Kaillas, you need a break. You can't keep going like this. There's always tomorrow, and I'm here to share the load with you."

Guilt gnaws at her. She knows that he pushed aside his work to plan her birthday. Now he's having to make up his workload and she hates it. The next few days will be hectic as he tries to make it all up. She's here to help if he wants it. Granted, some of it is beyond her abilities but some of it she can take off of his plate.

(Yeah. Seeing the timer just kinda makes me type faster. I literally spam it all the time)

Kaillas lifted his head at the sound of someone speaking, so surprised that there was even someone in the room. He hadn't heard anyone enter. In fact, he hadn't heard from anyone in hours. He had gotten used to the silence. The only noise that had been heard for hours was the stroke of his pen against the paper. He was just about to open his mouth to send whoever it was in the room away when he finally processed it was Ophelia.

He set his pen down and smiled. While he would have preferred no interruptions, his wife was always the exception. he would gladly let her interrupt him any day, even if it meant having to work later in the night to catch up on what he had abandoned during the day. He pushed back from the desk and motioned for her to come over to him. He didn't like how much space was between them right now. He wanted her to be closer to him. "I'm alright, darling," he said. "I'd rather get this all done today so it doesn't need to be worried about tomorrow."

Tomorrow would bring a whole new stack of paperwork to his desk. If he didn't get this done, it would only set him further back. He hated being behind more than he hated paperwork. And some of this was time sensitive. The sooner it was done, the better. "You should be going to bed soon, love, I'll join you in a bit." There was no telling just how long that "bit" would take him.

(That's honestly pretty smart!)

Ophelia watches Kaillas from the doorway, her soft gaze filled with understanding and affection. She steps over to him, closing the gap between them, the corners of her lips turning up in a fond smile. His dedication to his work has always been something she admires, even if it does mean he's often buried under paperwork when she'd rather have him by her side. That's what comes with marrying a king, competing with their work. She would love nothing more than for the two of them to run off and be together, even just for a few days. Unfortunately, that just isn't an option.

She places a gentle hand on his shoulder and leans down to plant a soft kiss on his forehead, her lips warm and tender. "I know you're busy, my love," she says, her voice filled with warmth and concern. "But don't forget to take care of yourself. You can't keep going without breaks and food." She brushes a lock of hair from his forehead, her fingers trailing lightly over his skin. She knows that it's easy to get lost in work but he needs to take breaks to eat and get some sleep. It won't do anyone any good if he runs himself ragged.

Her eyes meet his, and she takes a moment to just study him. "I'll go to bed soon, but I want you to promise me that you won't overexert yourself," she says, her tone gentle but firm. "One of the staff will bring you some food and tea. I want you to actually eat. And then you can join me when you're ready." As much as she would love to get him away from his work, she knows that he won't budge, not even for her.

(I've gotten so close to 800 words in 15 minutes but I haven't been able to break it yet)

Kaillas placed his hands on her hips as she finally walked over to him. He spread his legs slightly so she woukd be able to fit in between them. His eyes closed briefly at the gentle kiss she laid upon his forehead. There was a ghost of a smile on his lips. It was all too tempting to pull her into his lap and be with her. Whether they cuddled or spoke or even went to sleep on his couch, all he wanted to do was be with her. But the longer this paperwork took, the longer it would keep him from her. It would be best to get it all done as soon as possible.

He felt like now was not the time that he had gone days without food before and that this barely phased him. He doubted she would like that response, even if it was back from him military days. "I'm sorry for worrying you, love." He didn't want to be the reason he upset her. And he didn't like her worrying, least of all over him. It was supposed to be the other way around.

Kaillas quirked a smile, raising his head to kiss her lips softly. "You take such good care of me, darling. What would I do without you?" Go days without eating likely. He nodded his head, agreeing to her terms. However, he never said when he would eat. He would wait until his work was done. He had only a couple more hours to go and then he would be done. He was so close to the finish line.

(You’re going to get it!!! You just need the proper inspiration!)

Ophelia meets Kaillas's hands on her hips with a soft sigh of contentment as she steps into his embrace. The way he holds her close, making room for her between his legs, fills her with warmth. She places a gentle kiss on his forehead, her lips brushing against his skin, and feels a pang of longing for the closeness they share. His ghost of a smile doesn't go unnoticed, and she can't help but be charmed by his tenderness.

She knows how much he longs to be with her, but she also understands the importance of his work. Her fingers gently trail over his cheek as she speaks softly, "I appreciate your dedication, Kaillas. But your well-being matters too." Her concern for him is evident in her eyes, and she doesn't want him to push himself too hard.

His apology draws a soft smile from her, and she returns his kiss on the lips with tenderness. "I just worry because I care," she murmurs, her fingers lightly grazing his jaw. She leans in to kiss him again, a deeper, more lingering kiss filled with affection. "You're my world, Kaillas."

The agreement to eat is met with a nod from Ophelia. She knows he can be stubborn, especially when he's focused on something. Yet, she trusts that he will take care of himself, in his own way. She rests her head against his chest, simply savoring this moment of being close to him.

“Starve. You would starve,” She teases him lightly, pressing one more kiss to his cheek before stepping back. As much as she longs to stay with him, she knows that she’s a distraction. The sooner he gets back to work, the sooner he’ll finish.

Kaillas looked at her with a softened expression. His eyes had begun to crinkle looking at all the paper work and the irritation had been evident on his face. He was annoyed with everything that came to his desk. So much of it could be figured out if only they actually used their heads and common sense. His life would be so much easier if they did. And yet, they never would, so his work never cease or decrease.

He kissed her cheek softly. "And I appreciate you worrying about my well being, darling, but I'm alright." Frustrated but alright. He was itching to get back out on the training field and work out his pent up aggression. Paperwork seemed to do this to him. It caused him irritation that would build and build until he finally exploded and needed to release it all.

He smiled into the kiss, holding her close to his body. He pulled her until she was sat in his lap. He had his arms around her gently, stroking her back. "And you are my world. And I worry about you. I don't want you to stay up late. I can handle this. You need to get to bed soon."

He chuckled softly, nodding his head. How right she was. Were she not here to get on to him and remind him to eat, he would not. Eating took up time that could be spent otherwise. It wasn't that he didn't understand the importance of food. He of all people knew that. But sometimes when he got into something, time slipped away from him and it wasn't until he was finished and it was dark that he truly realized. He always went down to the kitchens to make himself some food afterward and tried to avoid the cooks and their scrutiny.

Ophelia can see the frustration in Kaillas' eyes, and it pains her to witness the toll that his responsibilities take on him. She knows he's strong, both physically and mentally, but she also understands that everyone has their limits. She gently brushes her fingers through his hair, her touch soothing. "I know you're alright, Kaillas," she says with a loving tone. "But I just worry about the toll this constant paperwork takes on you. You're my rock, and I hate seeing you so stressed."

As she sits in his lap, Ophelia nestles closer to him, feeling the warmth of his embrace. She can't help but smile as he reassures her. "You're my world too," she replies, her voice filled with genuine affection. "I know you can handle it, but you don't have to do it all alone. I'm here to support you, remember? We're a team."

She knows Kaillas well enough to understand how he can lose track of time when immersed in his work. It's wonderful that he's so dedicated to getting his work done and running the kingdom but the way it ways on him is concerning. She can take part of the load but unfortunately she can only do so much. As much as she would love to stay here, snuggled up happily on his lap, she knows that her presence is only a distraction. The longer she stays here, the longer it'll take for him to finish up his work and get some rest.

With a soft sigh, she presses one more loving kiss to his cheek before getting up off of his lap. "Finish up, love," She murmurs before stepping back. It's terrible to have to go to bed alone but it seems like that's the best option for now.

Kaillas leaned into the hand that brushed through his hair, his eyes temporarily closing. It would get easier after today. It had been more than usual because not only had he been neglecting it, but he had also taken on her workload. Once he got through everything, it would be just like a regular day. He would spend a few hours in his office and then the rest of the day doing his other kingly duties.

He reached a hand up to cup her cheek. "I know we are. But it's been a hard couple of days for you. I wanted you to be able to relax and enjoy yourself today. Tomorrow, everything will go back to how it's been."

He was reluctant to let her go, enjoying the feeling of her on his lap entirely too much. He would have loved to grab her and drag her back down on to his lap and spend the rest of the night holding her. But then he would never get this paperwork done. And that needed to be done first before he could enjoy his night with her.

"I won't be too long. Only an hour or so then I'll see you in bed. Don't wait up for me." He would be wracked with guilt if she decided to stay up and wait for him. He wanted her to get as much sleep as she needed and she couldn't do that if she stayed up for however long it would take for him to join her in bed.

Ophelia's eyes meet Kaillas' as he cups her cheek, a tender smile gracing her lips. She leans into his touch, savoring the moment of intimacy before reluctantly shifting to give him some space. "Thank you, my darling," She replies softly, her voice carrying warmth and gratitude. "I appreciate your understanding. I know you've been working tirelessly, and I greatly appreciate that you're willing to take on my responsibilities during these trying days." The visit from her parents and everything else has been crazy.

"I won't wait up." Whether or not she actually means that is still up in the air. It doesn't feel right going to bed without him. Sighing softly, she offers him one more loving smile before stepping out of the room.

Her footsteps are barely audible as she ascends the grand, spiraling staircase that leads to their private chambers. The castle is bathed in a soft, silvery moonlight, and the ornate chandeliers cast intricate shadows on the walls as she moves. Any other night and she would be enjoying how lovely everything looks. But not tonight. Tonight her mind is elsewhere.

She stands in the dimly lit chamber, her shoulders sagging with a mixture of exhaustion and reluctance. The ornate room, adorned with opulent tapestries and lavish furnishings, seems more like a gilded cage tonight. She's loath to surrender to the call of sleep when so many thoughts whirl through her mind.

Kaillas watched her longingly as she left his office. Even after she was gone, he could still feel her presence. It was a motivator more than anything to finish his work so he could go to bed and hold his wife. He looked down at the paperwork on his desk, a scowl on h is face. "You're the reason I'm not in bed with her right now." He spoke as if it would respond. God he needed to sleep.

He picked up his pen and found where he had left off, reading the words and writing what needed to be done. He vaguely noticed the staff bringing him some food and tea, and leaving with the cold food he had left untouched. He reached for the tea, smiling to himself as he sipped it. His thoughtful wife. He truly didn't know what he would do without her.

It took him a little longer than expected to finish. But then again, his stomach had started growling loud enough that he couldn't ignore it. The food smelled too good. He paused to eat his fill before continuing with his work. And by the time he was all wrapped up, it had been an hour later than he had expected. In his defense, it had been a lot of paperwork.

The palace was quiet now. The only ones about in the palace were the guards standing by and the occasional staff on night duties. Kaillas preferred it like this. Quiet, calm. It was easier to focus and easier to get things done. It was a reminder of the life he could have had, a retired war hero in a little mansion with only his wife and limited staff on hand. And perhaps in time their own children running around the house. A life he could have had if only fates hadn't had other plans. And now he was here.

He walked into his bedroom, closing the door quietly so not to disturb his wife. He walked over to the closet to undress. He slipped on a pair of pajama pants before moving to the bed and carefully climbing in bed. He wrapped his arms around Ophelia, gathering her to his chest.

Ophelia begins the ritual of retiring to her chambers. The flickering candlelight dances upon the ornate tapestries that adorn the walls as she unfastens the regal cloak that once graced her shoulders. Her fingers, graceful and skilled, deftly release the intricate pins that secure her royal coiffure. With each pin, the weight of the crown, an emblem of her status, lifts, and she breathes a quiet sigh of relief.

Her ladies-in-waiting, with a sense of reverence, assist her in slipping out of her elaborate gown. The fabric pools around her like liquid midnight, and she steps into a more comfortable, yet equally regal, nightdress. The soft, silken fabric caresses her skin, providing a welcome respite from the day's formalities. Her reflection in the ornate mirror reveals a softer, more relaxed version of herself as she sheds the weight of her responsibilities.

With each piece of jewelry carefully placed in its designated box, it's time for her to finally get to bed, though it isn't the same without her husband by her side. She moves gracefully across the chamber, the ambient scent of lavender filling the air, a soothing aroma that will hopefully guide her into tranquil slumber.

It takes nearly an hour of tossing and turning before she drifts off to sleep. She stirs ever so slightly as Kaillas's arms envelop her, a contented sigh escaping her lips. In her sleep, she nuzzles closer to him, seeking the warmth and comfort of his embrace. The presence of her beloved husband brings a sense of security and serenity,

Kaillas placed a gentle kiss on her head, careful not to wake her up. He froze as he felt her stir as he had gotten into bed, but relaxed as she didn't wake from her slumber. He was a light sleeper as well. He understood how hard, and how difficult it was not to be woken up by someone else. If anyone just moved around in the same room as him while he was sleeping, no matter how quiet they were, it would wake him up. One of the many traits he picked up from a military camp.

He settled down on the pillow after adjusting the blankets over them. He tucked his head into her hair, smiling as he breathed in her scent. It was calming and it soothed his soul. All worries and irritation faded away. It was like nothing had even happened in that office. As if there hadn't been a pile of paperwork he had been waiting on all day. She was in his arms now and that was all that mattered.

(Time skip?)

In the serene cocoon of their bedroom, Ophelia lies nestled beside Kaillas. The soft moonlight filters through the curtains, casting a gentle glow upon their peaceful forms. She sleeps peacefully in bed, her form a portrait of tranquility. Her chest rises and falls in a gentle, rhythmic cadence, showing serenity that envelops her. The soft, muted light of the bedside candle casts a warm glow over the bed. In her slumber, the cares of the world have faded, leaving her countenance unburdened, a striking contrast to the chaos of the day.

In the midst of her slumber, snuggles further under the covers. With a serene, contented expression, she burrows deeper into the soft, inviting mountain of blankets, seeking solace in their warmth. The room is quiet and still, a haven for her dreams, and the sensation of the covers against her skin is a soothing caress that beckons her to linger in the peaceful embrace of the night.

(Yep! What to?)

(I'm doing this instead of studying for my exam in 30 min. I have no one to blame but myself if I fail lol)

The past few months had gone relatively well. There were minor bumps throughout. The harvest was over and winter had come. There had been some concern about produce and shipment but it had all been resolved overall. All was quiet in the kingdom after the massacre. While the people had calmed and all but forgotten, the king had not, and neither had his men. With every passing day, they were more and more watchful. This wasn't a single attack. they were planning something, and they would not be caught unaware.

Inside the palace, all was as well as it could be. Kaillas had spoken with Elora and her guard, striking the importance of maintaining a professional relationship between the two. The only thing it had accomplished was the two being more discrete. Kaillas, of course, had no idea. He was a guy and was clueless as usual. Though the sister didn't even confide in Ophelia about it anymore, other than the long looks. Marriage proposals had come and gone for Elora as well, all of which she had declined. Kaillas was more than happy send those declines, thinking his sister was all too young for marriage, even if she had turned eighteen just last month. Just because his own wife had married young, didn't mean that was what he wanted for his sisters. He wanted them to be courted and to be loved before they chose to marry. Something he hadn't gotten himself.

In regards to his own marriage, it couldn't be better. They were in the process of arranging to renew their vows. His sisters were elated but he stressed the importance of letting Ophelia do all the planning. He would happily go along with whatever she planned, and help her where she needed it. But he also had a country to run and wasn't able to check every little detail of it. Besides, she had her ladies-in-waiting and his sisters to help her plan it. They had an active bedroom life, which contributed to their relationship as well. If they couldn't have a healthy sex life, it would have consequences for their overall relationship.

Kaillas was currently having lunch in his office. And by lunch, he meant leaving the food sitting on his desk, growing cold, and ignoring the increasing growling of his stomach. He was looking at a trade deal that had landed on his desk. Well, a revision to a trade deal was already established and he was debating what to do with it. Whether to accept it, decline it, or add his own revisions. This trade revision had come as a surprise to him and yet not that much of a surprise at all. Now he just needed to think of how to handle it.

(Man, I don’t blame you for not wanting to study. Exams are the worst XD But I’m sure you’ll do fine!)

The last few months have offered a rare and much-needed respite from the storm that had gripped the kingdom. It’s a time of calm, a welcome change of pace after the obstacles that had once threatened to destabilize their world. The harvest season has come and gone, leaving the granaries filled to the brim with the fruits of labor. As the colorful leaves fall and winter's chill creep in, there is a sense of contentment in the air.

Gone are the days of fervent concern about the production and shipment of goods. Those worries have been quelled, and a sense of reliability has returned to the trade routes. The markets are bustling, and the people are enjoying the fruits of a bountiful harvest. The kingdom's storehouses, once nearly bare, are now overflowing with supplies, ensuring that the winter months will pass without the specter of scarcity.

The calm extends beyond economic matters. The aftermath of the tragic massacre that had scarred the kingdom is slowly fading into a distant memory. Though never forgotten, the fear that once threatened to consume them is dying down. The people have regained a sense of security, and daily life has resumes its usual cadence. Laughter once again fills the streets, and the scars on the collective psyche begin to heal.

Ophelia, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, moves quickly through the corridors of the palace. The work of planning their vow renewal has filled her heart with joy and anticipation, a much-needed source of happiness amidst the dark shadows that still loom over the kingdom. She cherishes the idea of recommitting herself to Kaillas, especially after those times of uncertainty.

As she walks through the gardens, her ladies-in-waiting right behind her, she contemplates the upcoming event. She appreciates Kaillas's willingness to let her take the lead in planning, understanding the heavy burden of governing he bears. She helps when she can but it’s never enough. Still, the excitement is infectious, and they've already begun to brainstorm ideas for the ceremony, with gowns, flowers, and decorations taking center stage.

Their bedroom life, she acknowledges, has played a vital role in maintaining the deep connection she shares with Kaillas. She has learned to relax and try new things, putting her full trust in him. Their relationship is flourishing. It's not just about physical intimacy, but a symbol of their unity, a haven in a world fraught with uncertainties. She understands that nurturing this aspect of their relationship is crucial for the overall health of their marriage.

Amidst all these joyous thoughts, her heart aches for her husband. She knows he often sacrifices his own well-being for the sake of the kingdom, evident in the cold, untouched lunch that is likely sitting on his desk. It's a reminder of the weight on his shoulders, the threat that looms, and the constant vigilance he maintains. She longs to ease his burden, to be his confidant in these trying times.

In the cold garden, Ophelia stands among the frost-kissed petals, her face pale, and her hands trembling. She’s been out here for far too long, having needed to get away from the palace to clear her head. Her ladies-in-waiting, concerned and solicitous, hover around her, their breath visible in the chilly air.

"Your Grace, you really should come inside," implores Lady Eliza, her voice filled with worry. She reaches out to gently touch Ophelia's arm.

Lady Isabella chimes in, "Indeed, the garden is frigid, and you've been out here for so long. Please, let us escort you back to your chambers."

Lady Anne, the boldest of the trio, insists, "Your health is of utmost importance, Your Grace. Let us not risk it. There will be plenty of time for the garden when you're feeling better."

Reluctantly, she concedes, understanding that her ladies-in-waiting are only trying to protect her. She allows them to guide her, her steps unsteady, back towards the warmth and safety of the palace, leaving the cold garden behind.

(The question I didn't know and wasn't on the study guide was the one short answer question. Safe to say I didn't answer it XD. Also, I don't think my response is gonna be that long lol XD)

There was a knock at the door before it opened. Kaillas lifted his eyes just long enough to see Ambrose walk in before lowering his eyes back to the revised trade deal in his hand. His closet friend and hand sat across from him. Ambrose was silent, waiting for Kaillas to speak first. It was clear that with how intently he was looking at the paper it was of importance.

With a sigh, he mutedly handed it to Ambrose, watching as the man skimmed over it, then huffed. "Skimpy bastards." He said at last. Kaillas nodded his head in agreement. That they were. It wasn't as if his kingdom couldn't handle the trade revisions. They most certainly could. But it wasn't about that. It was about not being a push over.

"Agreed. And while we can sustain all the while, it is the principle of the fact. if they can get away with this, what else might they attempt?" He leaned back in his chair, hands folded in his lap. He looked at the paper, which had been set back on his desk. "I'll draw up a counteroffer tomorrow and send it back to them. How is everything?"

Ambrose placed his ankle over his knee. "All is well. Quiet." Quiet was never a good sign to them. "Our food stores should hold out through winter. Villages are stocked. Trade is good, well, mostly good." He looked pointedly at the paper sitting on the desk before looking back up at the king. "Life is as it should be."

"And Beatrice?" Ambrose gave Kaillas a long look. Kaillas had known of Ambrose's affection for her long before he had even pursued her. Well, perhaps it had been a little bit of both of them pursuing one another. It was the one thing he had seemed to catch on, even if he couldn't for the life of him see what his sisters were sneaking around doing. Perhaps he liked remaining in ignorance bliss.

Ambrose sighed after a long moment. "She is as well as she can be. You know why she covers herself." Because her husband would beat her. But if no one would step forward, there wasn't much Kaillas could do. Not even the household staff said a thing, and her husband was smart enough to keep his hands to himself in the palace.

Kaillas could do nothing but look at his friend in sympathy. It must be hard to love a woman married to another. If Beatrice ever came to him to ask for divorce, for help even, he would do anything for her. And not just because his best friend loved her, but because he truly was worried about her. She hasn't thus far and likely never would. Too many women fell victim to terrible marriages. And it was awfully hard for them to leave.

Ambrose shook his head. "I did not come here to discuss things about her." It had always been a touchy subject. And both of them tended to stay away from it. Still, Kaillas liked to check in every once in awhile. And he kept hoping that one day she would change her mind and come to him. "I came to tell you my family has sent word to me. I'll be leaving in a weeks time. I'll be gone for two."

Kaillas was surprised at this. In all this time that he had known Ambrose, he had only gone to see his family twice. And he spoke about them just as much. Ambrose had a strained relationship with his family that only worsened after Kaillas made him hand. It was easy to ignore your trouble child you sent off to be a child soldier. It wasn't so easy to ignore your child who was hand of the king. Ambrose's relationship was strained, to say the least. Even with his siblings. It was sad to see, truly, that Ambrose did not have the same relationship with his family as Kaillas did. Or at least with his sisters. He could understand having conflict with parents. His own had sent him to be a child soldier.

Kaillas nodded his head. "Alright. I'll assign a guard to you. And don't shake your head at me, I'm not taking any chances. you will travel with a guard." He wasn't risking anyone's life. Not now, especially. Winter was always a trying time. As an agricultural state, money could get tight in the winter. Crime elevated, no matter what Kaillas did to prevent it. And pair that with his parents assassins on the map, traveling wasn't the safest.

Ambrose finally nodded his head, agreeing. "Alright, fine." He stood to leave. "Make sure you eat your food. Your wife will worry if you don't."