Ophelia follows Kaillas silently through the halls and up the stairs, feeling a bit nervous about what he wants to discuss. Things have been going smoothly so far but they have been in the public eye the entire time. This is the first time they will be alone together and she doesn’t know what he’s like behind closed door. The king certainly doesn’t seem cruel but one can never be too careful. She tries to assure herself that this will be fine. No one has spoken negatively about him thus far. By all means, she has no real reason to fret.
As they enter his rooms, she can’t help but take in the luxurious surroundings. The king's suite is much grander than her father’s. She has to admit that she’s now curious to see what her living quarters are like. They must be rather wonderful as well. Spotting the steward, she does relax a little. It’s good to have a witness to prove that they’re doing nothing wrong. She sits down on the couch that Kaillas had gestured to and waits for him to begin.
Seeing as it is already late in the day, she can’t imagine that this will take too terribly wrong. It isn’t as though she doesn’t want to speak with him, she does, she’s just rather worn out from her journey. Tomorrow will be another big day so she would like to get as much rest as possible.
She fidgets with her hands, not entirely sure what to do with herself. She doesn’t want to speak first, especially since she is not sure what exactly he’s wanting to discuss. They have much to speak about but it is getting late so she’s certain that they won’t get through it all tonight. Luckily, there’s some time before the wedding so they should have enough opportunities to get through everything.
Kaillas sat their for a moment, gathering his thoughts. He wasn't very good at these things. He was a rather quiet man. Not reserved or shy, just quiet. He didn't have much to say so he didn't say it. In fact, other than being around his sisters, this was the most he spoke ever. And even around his sister was easy, he usually just promted them to speak and he listened. But he did need to speak with his soin to be wife to figure some things out so the rest of the week goes smoothly.
He would speak with Catalina first thing in the morning to fix her schedule. He had briefly seen Ophelia's schedule and it was cramped. Even if his sisters hadn't said anything he would have tried to cut out a few things so the princess could at least have some time to herself. This week was a busy one. But after the wedding they would go straight to their honeymoon and they would be left in silence fir a week or two. Not that Kaillas planned on doing anything with her. Not unless she asked him and truly meant it, which he very much doubted she would want. He planned on residing his time in peace for the first time in years and trying to relax.
"I know you're tired so I won't take up too much of your time," he started out saying. "I just wanted to set a few things straight so this goes alot smoother." That sounded alright, he thought. Not too harsh. Women were hard to speak to especially. He was always worried he'd say the wrong thing. Soldiers didn't care. They had a harsh language and weren't offended by anything said. They knew not to take it personal. Ladies at court took everything to heart.
"I'm assuming you know what happens on the wedding night. I hope so. If not, my sisters will explain. But I do want you to know that I have no expectations of you. I do not expect that from you, at all. Not ever if you do not wish to." He would never force her or anyone for that matter, on to him. He would never use the fact that he was king to get a woman to his bed. "My sisters haven up the role as queen thus gar. They will explain to you the duties of queen." Other than childbearing that was. "You'll reside in the Queen's suite unless you like to stay anywhere else. There is a shared door between us but it can be locked from either side. If you decide you don't want to be in the palace, I can easily have one of my residences set up for you to live in."
Ophelia listens attentively as Kaillas speaks, knowing that this must be important since he didn’t wish to wait til morning to discuss it. She appreciates his acknowledgment of her tiredness, glad that this will be a quick conversation. Normally she wouldn’t be so eager to escape to her room but it has been a rather long day and she knows that this entire week will be madness. Though she hasn’t seen her schedule yet, she knows that it is rather packed.
As he mentions the wedding night, her cheeks flush slightly, though not for the reason he may think, but she maintains her composure. She does not know what happens. It’s clear that she should have at least some idea but she does not. Not that she will admit to her lack of knowledge. It’s embarrassing. Despite not being entirely sure what exactly her expectations should be, she appreciates his honesty and the reassurance that he has no expectations of her. That should make things go a little more smoothly.
"Thank you,," she replies softly, wanting to express that she does appreciate his willingness to not push her into anything. She makes no comment to indicate that she isn’t sure what exactly she’s thanking him for. Though apparently she isn’t expected to do anything their wedding night, she would still like to know what it is they’re supposed to do so she’ll try to figure that out this week.
She nodds as he mentions his sisters have taken up the role as queen and their responsibility to explain the duties to her. The duties of being Queen are not unknown to her. She grew up watching her mother act as queen so she knows what to do. Granted, there are some things that this kingdom will do differently so she doesn’t doubt that she has much to learn.
"The Queen's suite is perfectly fine," Ophelia assures him. "I would like to stay there. Residing outside of the palace isn’t necessary.” Though the offer is almost tempting, she wants to stay here. It will be easier for everyone if she isn’t miles away. Besides, she would like to make friends and settle down. That will work best if she is here.
Kaillas did not like the way that Ophelia blushed at the mention of the wedding night. He figured it meant she knew nothing or very little of it. That made him feel uncomfortable. Kaillas was well versed in the ways of the bedroom. By experience and just by talk. Soldiers had no filter at all. He had heard more than he ever wanted to know at such a young age. He was still traumatized by some of it. Nothing he would repeat.
This reminded him how little he knew how to talk to girls. He had traumatized his sisters a few times before they had learned to be accustomed to his abrasiveness. They didn't question it now or blush around him. He was more careful around Katya now as she was so young. Elora, not as much. She was older and getting close to being able to be married. Not that he planned to arrange her marriage, either of them. As long as they were respectable men he had no problems with it. Well, beyond him not liking them.simply because they were with his sisters.
He nodded his head at her request. It was done, then. After their honeymoon she would permanently be residing in the palace. They would likely take a vacation here and there or go on a trip to another kingdom, but the palace would be their home.
"Alright, good. Do you have any questions or concerns?" He had aired out his own, she should have a chance to do so as well. She could say whatever she wanted too and he would let her. He wasn't her keeper and as long as it was in private, she was free to speak her mind.
Ophelia looks at Kaillas, her cheeks still tinted with a faint blush from their previous conversation. She's still embarrassed and unwilling to admit that she has no idea what they were actually talking about. Perhaps Mistress Catalina or one of her handmaidens can help her figure it out. Shaking her head a little, she cleans herself of those thoughts. She appreciates his willingness to address any questions or concerns she might have, but at the moment, she finds herself at a loss for words. Her mind is filled with a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from excitement to nervousness, as she contemplates the prospect of their upcoming marriage.
After a brief moment of contemplation, she finally gives a gentle shake of her head, indicating that she has no immediate questions or concerns. It only takes her a second to realize that she should probably actually voice this. " I think I'm okay for now," She says lightly, offering a tiny smile to show that she's alright. "I'm sure I'll have questions along the way, but for now, I'm alright." Once she sees her schedule and gets into a routine, she's certain that she'll manage to figure things out.
"I do want to say that I appreciate you taking the time to talk to me." She knows that many other men wouldn't have bothered to ask her for her thoughts. Though she hardly knows the man, she has a feeling that she got relatively lucky in the husband department. At the very least, she knows that it could be a lot worse. Her fear was that she would get stuck with someone twice her age and cruel.
Kaillas was drumming his fingers on his leg. His knee was bouncing slightly, a nervous habit that happened subconsciously. When he we noticed it, he did his best to still his knee but then it felt strange not to be bouncing it. He was not usually a nervous person. He was never a nervous person. But something about Ophelia had his heart speeding up and his breath quickening. He did not like this feeling.
He nodded his head to her, acknowledging that she had nothing to talk about right now. He expected the questions to come likely tomorrow or the day after. And likely with his sisters and not Kaillas. It sounded like she was a lot more comfortable with his sisters. And hopefully they would be able to answer them. Whatever they couldn't, they could direct her to him and he would answer them.
"Alright then," he pushed up in his legs to stand. He held out his hand for Ophelia to take so that he could help her up. "You've had a long journey. You must be exhausted." Taking her arm, he led her out of his chambers and back into the hall. While it would have been easy to take her to her rooms by their shared door he would rather her be able to recognize her rooms from her door in the hallway. Kaillas stopped outside the door, making no move to open it. This was to be her space. He wasn't going to invade it without an invitation inside. "Have a good night, Ophelia."
Ophelia notices the subtle change in Kaillas' demeanor, aware of his nervousness and the slight restlessness he displays. She wonders if her presence is causing him discomfort or if there is something else bothering him. Regardless, she doesn’t want to press the matter at the moment, as she understands that people have their own ways of processing emotions. Besides, they hardly know each other so she doubts that he would want to confide in her.
She takes his offered hand, allowing him to help her up from her seat. Not wanting to be rude, she does thank him. It’s not as easy to get up in this sort of dress as it appears to be so assistance is nice. As they exit the room and walk through the hallways, she takes note of the surroundings, trying to familiarize herself with the layout of the palace. It’s going to take her awhile to figure out where everything is.
When they reach the door to her rooms, Ophelia stops alongside him, appreciating his respect for her space. She turns to face him, her gaze meeting his. "Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you. I wish you a good night as well, Kaillas," she replies, her voice light.
With a small smile, she turns to enter her chambers. Everything is extravagant and obviously made for someone used to living in the lap of luxury. The room is stunning, she has no problem admiring that. She’ll have to find out who decorated it and be sure to thank them.
Kaillas made the split decision to bring her hand up to his lips and place a kiss on the back of her hand. This time, a real kiss, not the brushing of the lips like his first one had been when they first met. Then, Kaillas had half believed she was going to be some gold-digging, privileged princess. Not someone almost as reserved as he was. Someone just as quiet. Someone compliant. While he preferred it over what he had thought he was going to get, he almost wished she would speak more. Perhaps once she had familiarized herself with him.
He straightened his back, offered the tiniest of smiles, and stepped away from her. He waited until the door clicked shut before retreating to his own rooms. There, he requested a copy of her schedule and made the necessary changes so that Ophelia would have time with his sisters and time to herself. Kaillas knew more than anyone how important alone time was. As king, it was a rarity. He often found himself on the verge of ordering everyone out of the palace. But it was that voice of reason that kept him from doing so.
He handed the revised schedule to his steward to deliver to Mistress Catalina before he readied for bed. But he found that sleep was hard to get. He tossed and turned and yet could not sleep. Not until the moon had risen fully in the sky did the exhaustion seep in and he slept. But it was not a good sleep. He wasn't sure if it was because of the nerves or fear of a new person coming into his life but his sleep had been riddled with nightmares. Ones that had ripped him from his sleep, drenched in sweat just before dawn. Only about half an hour before he would have usually gotten up.
The sincerely of the kiss catches her off guard. It’s unexpected but it makes her heart flutter. She didn’t think that such a seemingly small gesture would mean so much to her and yet it does. There is no one watching them, examining their every move. Kissing her hand was fully his idea. It’s sweet and she’s going to cherish the memory of that gesture. She smiles, a real genuine smile this time, before she fully enters her room.
As the door closes behind her, she takes a moment to absorb the events of the day. Everything all happened so fast. Her head spins if she just thinks about it. Luckily, everything went off without a hitch. Everyone was so kind and welcoming towards her. It makes her feel more positive about how this week is going to go.
Feeling lighter than she had when she first arrived, she gets herself ready for bed. She’s going to need her rest if she’s to make it through everything on her schedule for the week. She climbs into bed, tucking herself under the soft fluffy covers. Closing her eyes, she awaits the sweet embrace of sleep.
However, as the night progresses, she finds it difficult to find restful sleep. She shifts in her bed, trying to calm her racing thoughts, but sleep eludes her. It’s difficult trying to rest in a brand new place. Her things may have been placed into this room but it’s not hers. It’s all new and….wrong. Time will fix that but for now she must suffer.
The night slowly wears on, and Ophelia's mind drifts in and out of sleep, interrupted by fleeting moments of restlessness and unsettling dreams. Eventually, her body is simply too exhausted to keep this terrible game going and allows her to properly sleep.
As the sun rises in the sky, warm rays of light shine in through the window and wake her up. She feels refreshed despite her initial struggles to sleep. Today is another big day so she must not waste any time lounging in bed.
Kaillas made no attempt to go back to bed. It would be useless. And even if he didn't already wake up within the hour, he wouldn't have been able to fall asleep anyways. He could never find sleep after a nightmare. Once he was up, he was up. Instead of wasting the day in bed, staring up at the ceiling, he rolled out if bed. He went to his bathroom and washed his face with some cool water. He wouldn't bathe yet, not when he was about to go to the courtyard to train. He would only get more sweaty.
He dressed in a pair of trousers, a white shirt, and a pair of boots. The shirt would likely come off halfway through his training as he got too hot so he didn't care that it was an undershirt and scandalous to wear. Hardly anyone was up anyways.
He paused at the conjoined door, listening for any movement from Ophelia. When he heard nothing, he continued getting ready. He strapped his sword to his belt before exiting his chambers. He made his way to the courtyard which held their training grounds. There were a few guards already there, warming up. Training for the guards didn't start until dawn had begun. Kaillas rarely trained with them as he did his own thing. But he did spar with them occasionally.
Kaillas did a warmup run around the courtyard before starting his stretches. He did his exercises and by the time he was done his shirt had been shed. He unscathed his sword and began walking through the steps in the art of the sword. It was like a dance to him. His movements were so smooth and fluid that even the guards stopped to watch him from time to time. He was an excellent swordsman.
As the sun rose, Catalina was striding through the palace to reach the Queen's suite. She knocked on the door and waited for the responding answer before walking in, a team of maid's trailing behind her. "Good morning, Your Highness," she said, opening the curtains. The maids began bustling around the room. A few of them disappearing into the bathroom to draw a bath for the princess. "I hope your ready to start the day. A bath first, then as you're getting ready I'll explain the day's schedule."
Ophelia forces herself up and out of the comforting embrace of the bed. Not wanting to leave a mess, she makes the bed up a bit. A clean room always makes her feel more productive. With that simple task done, she wanders over to the wardrobe to select something to wear. It needs to look nice yet be comfortable since she’s certain that she’ll be running around completing tasks all day.
Before she had a chance to do so much as consider her options, her room is being invaded by maids. She blinks and turns around to greet everyone. “Good morning,” She greets Mistress Catalina with a gentle smile. The maids are all moving around so quickly that it’s hard to keep up. Nevertheless, she does her best to properly greet each one.
“I would love to hear today’s schedule,” She agrees at once, curious to see what she’ll be doing all day. Hopefully someone had a chance to adjust her schedule just a tad so she can have a little free time. This next week is going to be very overwhelming and she doesn’t want to stress herself out.
Though she is used to having maids around, she finds the concept of someone doing everything for her to be unpleasant. She tries to be a independent as allowed. Hearing the water running in the bathroom, she heads over. She it’ll be nice to get all cleaned up. Besides, the sooner she cooperates with this, the sooner she can move on to move productive tasks. “If you would allow it, I have a few questions after we discuss the schedule.”
Catalina was smiling at the princess. A few of the maids were straightening up, not that there was much to fix. They made the bed as the princess had gotten out of it and cleaned up the clothes the princess had worn the day before. Her things had already been brought into her room and unpacked. Anything that could be hung was in the closet. The rest had been folded neatly in the dresser.
She nodded at the princess. "Of course. You nay ask any questions you would like. I'll answer then as best as I can." There were somethings she might divert or pass on to someone else. But she coukd answer most things. "After you bathe. You must want to wash off that carriage ride." They would have offered her a bath last night but she knew the king had wanted ti meet with her and after that the princess would have likely been to tired to want to do anything but sleep.
As the prince's bathed, Catalina had the maids pull out a suitable day dress for her to wear along with the accessories and shoes. As the princess finally emerges from the bath, she was ushered to sit at the vanity where the maid sprung to style her hair and put her accessories on her. Necklace, earrings, bracelets, the whole sorts.
Catalina was by Ophelia's side, a sheet of paper in her head with her schedule. "Now, it's been tweaked a little bit. First, you will have breakfast in the great hall. King Kaillas will accompany you there. You'll be given a tour of the palace. Then tea and lunch with the ladies of the court. Afterwards, an hour has been blocked off for you to ride with the Princess Elora. When you return, a few activities will be set up in the courtyard for you and the court to participate in. Dinner will be served in the great hall. You'll have half an hour before bed to spend with the Princess Katya then it will be time for bed. Tomorrow you will have a bit more time for yourself but that can be discussed later."
The bath doesn’t take up too much time. Though she usually loves to soak and just relax in the water for awhile, today she knows that she’s pressed for time. Once done with the bath, she gets dressed and then is ushered over to the vanity to have we hair done and accessories put on. Her hair is the one thing she truly doesn’t mind having help with. It’s always easier to have someone else do it than for her to attempt it on her own.
She listenes attentively to Catalina's explanation of the day's schedule. She appreciates the thoroughness with which everything had been planned out. Especially since she’s been informed that she’ll have time for both Elora and Katya today. She looks forward to spending time with each of them. Nodding in acknowledgement, Ophelia replies, "Thank you. The schedule sounds delightful, and I appreciate the adjustments made. I am eager to begin my day."
Breakfast with the king should be interesting. She’s much more awake and alert today so she’s hoping to take this as a chance to get to know him a little better. Yesterday did go well but they didn’t get much of a chance to properly talk.
As the maid finish styling her hair and adorning her with accessories, she glances at her reflection in the vanity mirror. They did a wonderful job of getting her ready. The hair is simple yet beautiful and the jewelry thankfully won’t get in her way today.
She shifts her gaze back to Catalina and asks, “Could you please provide me with a brief overview of the ladies of the court who will be joining me for tea and lunch? I would like to familiarize myself with their names and positions within the kingdom.” She wants to be ready repaired for meeting everyone. Having a little information will be extremely helpful.
Catalina watches carefully how Ophelia responds to the maid's. While they have been a little more lenient around the king, as he denied most of the butlers trying to care for him, the staff would like to do their job for the queen. It was similar for every kingdom. Staff would take care of their royal family. And this was no different. So as long as she would allow it, they were here for her every need.
Opjelia seemed to be taking well to it, other than letting rhe maids bathe her. But even Catalina understood how that was an invasion of privacy. She wouldn't want someone helping her bathe either. It certianly wasn't something to dock her for.
She smiled at the compliment, nodding her head. She had been happy, of course, to adjust the schedule. She was happy to do anything the king asked of her. That was her job, to be happy to do what he wanted done. "Of course, Your Highness. I'm happy to adjust anything you need to your liking." As long as the king agreed with it as well.
Catalina smirked at the question, nodding her head. "We'll stick to the wives of the council. They're the most important ladies at court. They have influence over their husbands who have influence over your husband. You'll want to please them and keep them happy. Of course it's not possible to keep them all happy but you must do your best."
The maids were curling her hair in loose coils. They pinned the top half of her hair up and left the bottom down. Jewelry was placed on her neck and in her ears. She looked like a queen and she wasn't even dressed yet. "We'll start with the most important and work out way down. Now, thankfully Ambrose, the hand if the king, is unmarried so you do not need to worry about him. His Treasurer and Master of War are going to be the most influential. The Treasurer because he control the flow of coin and the Master of War because that was how Kaillas was raised. The Treasurer's wife is Esmerelda and the General's wife Aurora. Those two are thick as thieves. They're not afaird to get their hands dirty to get what they want. They will try to undermine you in that proper ladies of the court language. Be careful with those two but keep them happy. Your soon to be husband listens to them the most after Ambrose. His spymaster is next. His wife is Genevieve. She's nice but be wary. She's her husband's eyes and ears. She tells him everything she hears at court. She has a network of staff that's in her pocket. No one here, please don't fret. His Master of Ships is next. Kaillas is a military man. He appreciates any military man. His wife, Isobel, is good woman. Perhaps only one of the true genuine ladies at court. She knows how to play the game. I'd suggest befriending her as quickly as possible. His General Attorney is next. Kaillas is good at following the law and rarely has problems with him. His wife is the least of your worries. She's a bit ditzy. She married up and doesn't really understand the way of things. But her womb works fine and the General Attorney puts a baby in her every other year." She shook her head in disgust. Poor woman. "The commander of the palace guard has no wife either so there's no need worry about that. There will be a few other ladies but I don't wish to overwhelm you. Those will be the most important ladies."
Ophelia listens attentively to Catalina's explanations about the influential wives of the council. It’s important that she takes note of this information. It will help her figure out who to befriend so she can best navigate her way with the people of the court. She makes sure to stay perfectly still as the maids continue to work on her appearance. She sees no reason to make their jobs harder than they already are. She has a great respect for the maids and all they do. It can’t be easy.
"Thank you for providing me with this insight. It seems like I have much to learn about the ladies of the court," Ophelia replies, hoping that she’ll be able to get on friendly terms with them all. A few of them sound like they would make for very powerful enemies if she crossed them. She can’t help but make a face when she hears the comment about that poor woman being pregnant so often. “I simply do not understand why some men prefers their wives to live like broodmares. Women shouldn’t be degraded to just baby makers.” Perhaps she’s speaking out of turn but that’s how she feels.
As the maids finish preparing her hair and adorning her with jewelry, she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. The women did a wonderful job with everything and she makes sure to thank them for taking the time to help her look proper.
"Please, continue to share any advice or guidance you think would be helpful. I value your expertise," Ophelia says sincerely, turning her attention back to the conversation. "I want to learn as much as I can about the court and the people within it.” Winning over the people is important to her. Having her kingdom trust her and respect her will help to make her a better queen.
Catalina pursed her lips. She whole heartedly agreed. Unfortunately there wasn't anything that could be done. "Beatrice was married to him a year before Kaillas came to court. He would have stopped it otherwise. But there's nothing he can do now without a public alteraction or Beatrice coming forward to him. And god knows she won't. She terrified of her husband. Everyone sees it but she'll deny it every chance she can."
She stepped back as the maids urged for the princess to the bed where her dress had been laid out for her to wear for the day. "I know everything that goes on in the palace, Your Highness. All you need to do is ask." She smiled and turned away so the princess could dress. She didn't need anyone else than necessary watching her dress.
"This first week is going to give everyone their first impression of you, Your Highness. You need to walk carefully in the public eye. Anything you do they will judge you and behave accordingly. You must be careful. At least until you go on your honeymoon." She refrained from saying that everyone would expect her to be pregnant by the time she came back. She knew Kaillas had no intentions of that. At least not without the princess wanting it first. But she was still so young. She hadn't even reached twenty. Catalina believed Kaillas to be a good man. She didn't think he would lay a hand on her until she was older.
Ophelia listens quietly, her brows furrowing with concern as she absorbs the gravity of the situation surrounding Beatrice. It saddens her to hear that the woman lives in fear and that her options for escape or intervention are limited. She couldn't help but feel a sense of empathy for the other woman, recognizing the weight of her responsibilities and the challenges she faced. It can't be easy to be trapped in a marriage like that.
As she allows the maids to guide her toward the bed where her dress awaits, Ophelia turns her gaze back to Catalina, appreciating her offer of knowledge and support. The weight of public perception and judgment presseds upon her shoulders, and she understands the importance of navigating this first week with caution and grace. She nods, acknowledging Catalina's advice. "I will be mindful of my actions. I understand that every move I make will be scrutinized, and I must strive to leave a positive impression."
She pauses for a moment, contemplating the unspoken expectations and pressures surrounding her marriage. Everyone will be expecting her to carry the next heir to the throne before the year is up and that's absolutely nerve-wracking. At least Kaillas has assured her that he won't pressure her into it. That makes her feel more at ease with the whole situation. When the honeymoon is mentioned, she chews nervously on the inside of her cheek, weighing her options. "Can I ask you something rather….embarrassing?"
Catalina turned back as soon as the princess was dressed enough. The maids were tying up her corset. "Be careful but don't let it control your life. You will crazy. You can be yourself around be. Around Kaillas. Around the princesses. And you will have the whole of your honeymoon to be yourself. You know as well as anyone how stiffling court life can be. Let yourself breathe every once in awhile."
She nodded her head, tilting slightly as she waited for the question. "Of course, Your Highness. You can ask me anything." She was there for her every need, just as she was for the king. Anything Ophelia needed, she would make sure of it.
Kaillas was still in the training yard. He had his sword in hand using it against a dummy. He had worked out his nightmare and his aggressions against his council for making him do this. He didn't want a wife. Not like this. He never saw himself getting married but if he did he wanted to find her on his own. Not have the council pick some girl out like a broodmare and present her to him. She was a child, raised to become someone's wife. Someone important. Someone like him. She should have been able to live before being shipped off to him. He vowed he would give her a life. He would let her live. Without any obligations to him or the crown.
The corset is her least favorite part. If she had her way, she would take every corset she owns, put them in a big pile, and set them on fire. She swears that they drain the life out of her. Luckily the maids seem to be showing some mercy. There is no doubt in her mind that she would be told no if she asked not to wear one so she doesn't bother. She lets out a breath when the darn thing has finally been laced up. It shouldn't be much longer until she's officially dressed and can be sent off to start her day properly. Though she is nervous for many aspects of it, she's also excited to get to know everyone.
Ophelia hesitates for a moment longer before working up the courage to actually ask what's on her mind. She needs to figure it out eventually and it's best that she hear it from someone she can trust. "About the honeymoon….I don't know what I'm supposed to do. no one ever told me," She admits quietly. Technically that was a statement and not a question but she wasn't sure how else to word it. Mentioning her ignorance on the matter is embarrassing enough. She didn't want to ask a poorly phrased question and make it worse.
"I know that it isn't your job to explain this to me and if you are uncomfortable, I understand and respect that," She adds quickly, not wanting Catalina to feel pressured into explaining things to her if she doesn't want to. The other woman is, of course, under no obligation to do so.
Catalina looked at her in surprise. This had been the last thing she had been expecting. Her mother should have told Ophelia what to expect, even if it was the most detailed of accounts. Cat had not been expecting this. Nor did she exactly know how to speak about it. It simply wasn't done. Though the princesses were much more vulgar than she would like but that was due to Kaillas. And we'll, he was King and there wasn't much she could do about that.
"I think we should sit, Your Highness." This was a conversation done better when not standing. She didn't want to make the princess feel faint. Not everyone took to this very well. "Before I start this conversation, I want you to know that Kaillas has no expectations of this for you. I don't want you to be scared. He will not use you or force you to bare his children." It was sad that it had to be said. Kaillas had done his best to advocate for women but there was too much generational culture. Or stubbornness as he often said to Cat.
Once they were sat on the bed, she put her hands in her lap. She was thinking of the best way to go about this. She might as well just be blunt. "I'm hoping you know about the human anatomy. Women have our opening and men have their…sword?" She cringed. This was already off to a bad start. "To consumate the marriage and well, create a child, a man will insert his…sword into your opening until he ejaculates. Which is a white fluid that will help create the baby." Catalina was suddenly very happy that she didn't have children. "This is also done purely for pleasure. And both Men and women can enjoy it. Women can take tonics to prevent pregnancy so that she can fully enjoy the experience."
The regret is isntantantious. The second she speaks her statement into existance, she wishes she could take it back. The look at Catalina’s fave tells her that this is not a subject that they should be discussing. She feels bad for even bringing it up. Her embarrassment over this is obvious. She knows that she should already have knowledge on this subject and it’s shameful that she doesn’t.
As they sit on the bed, Ophelia's hands fidget nervously in her lap. She appreciatesCatalina's straightforwardness, even though the subject matter makes her blush and feel heavily uncomfortable. It was clear that Catalina was doing her best to explain things in a way that she could understand.
"I… I see," Ophelia replies, her voice barely above a whisper, not so sure that she likes that answer. Despite the fact that she’s told that it can be enjoyable, it certainly doesn’t seem like it is. "Thank you for explaining it to me. I… I think I understand."
The news of the tonic relives her. She knows that it is her duty to produce children but she would rather not. Not for quite some time at least. She has heard many women complain about the miseries of childbearing so she isn’t eager to participate. Unfortunately for her, she knows that the kingdom will expect her to have at least one child.
Catalina offered her a sympathetic look. She wished she could offer more help but there was only so much she was comfortable sharing. Especially with the soon to be queen. "I know this wasn't the answer you were looking for. I wish I could provide more insight but…" She passed as a thought occurred to her. "Let me speak to the librarian to pull some books for you. She is discrete. I wouldn't suggest otherwise. But there are some books that have better descriptions and drawing that can provide you with more knowledge on the subject." And Cat had no doubts the princess Elora was going to be vulgar and blunt about the subject. But the books might help nevertheless.
"Alright then," she stood. "We have a some spare time before breakfast, it looks like. We can take our time walking to the great hall. Perhaps I can show you the courtyard. It might be a little crowded as the guards finish their workout but it is still a sight." She knew exactly what she was doing. She knew that Kaillas trained in the courtyard every morning. And she knew exactly what he looked like and how many of the women at court fawned over him. She was hoping to create an attraction for the princess.
Ophelia nods appreciatively at tje suggestion. The idea of books with more detailed descriptions and illustrations seems like a helpful resource to better understand the topic at hand. It’ll be infinitely less embarrassing as well. No one will have to know that she’s uneducated on the subject and she’ll be left to figure it out in peace. She has quickly put her trust in Catalina so she doesn’t doubt her judgment in finding discreet and informative materials.
"Thank you. That would be helpful," She replies, completely sincere. She can’t thank the other woman enough for being patient and understanding with her. This topic is an uncomfortable one and most people wouldn’t have been willing to explain anything to her at all.
The mention of taking a walk and exploring the courtyard perks her up. She would love to get some fresh air and better aquatint herself with the palace. Though she’s fairly certain she knows how to get to the dinning hall from here, that’s the only room she knows where is.
"That sounds wonderful," She agrees instantly. "I would love to see the courtyard, even if it's crowded. It will be interesting to witness the guards' training routine. “Is Kaillas with them? I know he used to be in the military….” She’s curious to see how much of his past bleeds into his current routine.
Catalina gestured for the princess to follow next to her. Once her shoes were on, she led Ophelia out kf the bedroom and into the hall. She had a knowing smile plastered on her lips. "Every morning," she said with a hum. "Like clockwork. His rest days are on Sundays and only because he had an incident that…well, he can tell you about that." She shouldn't go sharing the king's personal life without his knowledge
"He's in the courtyard at dawn every morning and stays out there just before breakfast. Most days he takes his meal in his rooms. This week is different because you are here." Cat made a note to change their schedule so that one morning they could have dinner in their private dinning hall. Other than a steward to deliver their food and the cook nearby, they could have some alone time. Perhaps it would soothe over some of their bumps.
Catalina didn't share what state they would find Kaillas in, deciding to leave that a surprise. Even with the scar, Kaillas had a handsome face. The scar only seemed to add on to it. And after years of training and hard work, he had a sculpted body. Catalina made be twenty years his senior but she could still admit that he was an attractive man. Even if she did see him more like her own son than anything. She saw his beauty in a motherly way.
"You will find that alot of his decisions are affected by the way his mind was molded by the army. He became a squire at such a young age." She shook her head. She missed the boy he used to be. "It's about time that this palace had a woman's hand guiding the decisions." Not that women couldn't be ruthless, but Cat didn't get those vibes from Ophelia. She found something else, fierce but kind and loving. And that's what this kingdom needed.
The look on the other woman’s face admittedly has her curious. She can’t quite pinpoint what it means and she’s not sure she should ask so she remains quiet as they leave the bedroom. As Catalina mentions the incident that led to the king's rest days, Ophelia's curiosity is piqued, but she respects the decision not to share further details without the king's consent. She knows it was important to maintain trust and confidentiality. “I hope that he will one day trust me enough to tell me about it.
A one on one breakfast with the king sounds wonderful. She welcomes the idea of spending some quality time alone with Kaillas, away from the demands of the court and the prying eyes of others. Yesterday she was much too overjoyed and tired from her travels to speak much with him. Today she feels refreshed and she has any questions about him.
Ophelia nods as Catalina mentions the influence of the king's army background on his decision-making. She recognizes the need for a different perspective, one that balanced strength with compassion and understood the importance of a woman's touch in ruling the kingdom. She hopes to bring that change and make a positive impact. “I will do my best to be the queen that this kingdom needs.” She has several ideas already but she knows that she must wait before she speaks of them.
As the arrive at the courtyard, she takes a look around, mostly hoping to spot her soon to be husband. She would love to say good morning and get a moment to gain insight into what his training looks like before they’re ushered off to the dinning hall for breakfast.
"One day, you will both be comfortable enough to share things with each other." Ehike her greatest hope would be that they would fall in love with each other, Catalina hoped at least for a great friendship between the two of them. Where they could be mutually comfortable with each other and feel safe to share such things with each other. Catalina could only imagine the horror Kaillas faced in the army. She remembered how violent his nightmares had been when he first came to the palace. Maybe one day he would feel fmsafe enough to confide on Ophelia.
After walking through a number of halls and down the flight pf stairs, they finally came across the courtyard. There was a wall of windows separating them from the courtyard. It was a way to give courtiers a view when it was too hit or too cold to venture outside. And it gave everyone a perfect view as the guards and king trained every morning.
And there he was, training, even as the other guards were wrapping up their workouts. Catalina knew what that meant. She knew he had a bad night, likely woken up by nightmares. It took everything in her not to let her smile drop. She only hoped he had worked it out and wouldn't be hostile against them. "Come, let's go say good morning." From a safe distance, of course. His Majesty was still swinging around a sword.
Kaillas was oblivious to the two women approaching them. He was oblivious to everyone but the dummy in front of him. The image of the man from his nightmare was still fresh in his mind and that was what he pictured as he swung that sword to the dummy. Over and over again. His sweat was making his chest glisten in the morning rays. Had he not been trying to murder a training dummy, he might have looked majestic.
With a finally swing, the head of the dummy fell off the shoulders and thumped to the ground. It was then, as he stood panting and sheathing his sword, did he notice Catalina and his soon to be wife standing a few yards away. This wasn't very proper of them. He wasn't even wearing a shirt, much her being present during training. But then again, Kaillas didn't lime proper very much. With the blade sheathed, he aporached the pair.
Hopefully Catalina is right. She doesn’t expect some great romance between them but she would at least like to be friends. They have to spend their whole lives together. It would be awfully lonely if they ended up disliking each other. With everything Kaillas has been through, he deserves someone to listen and care for him. If allowed, she would very much so like to be that person.
Approaching the windows from the courtyard, she takes a moment to appreciate the thought behind it. It’s rather clever to add windows here. If the weather is poorly, people will still have the perfect view to enjoy the courtyard without having to freeze. After taking a moment to admire the ingenuity behind the design, she turns her focus to finding her soon to be husband.
What she doesn’t expect is his half dressed state. She just assumed that he would be training fully clothed. She was wrong. Taken aback by this, she stands there, admittedly gawking for much longer than she should. She quickly pulls herself together, not eager to appear fullish. The brightly flushed face and the wide eyes of surprise remain on her face.
The timing of their arrival seems almost intentional but she can’t prove it. Though she feels a little guilty about it, she uses the safety of hiding behind the window to take a moment to appreciate how easy on the eyes Kaillas is. Seeing him like this makes her heart go crazy. She eventually pulls her gaze away and follows Catalina into the actual courtyard.
She’s had some time to compose herself though she doesn’t doubt that her face is flushed still. “Good morning,” She offers, having to focus on making sure that her voice is steady.
Catalina was doing everything she could to hold back that smirk. She had seen that starstruck face the princess had. While the king attracted many women, this was the only one that mattered now. Cat was hoping she could at least spark the attraction between the two of them now. Even if nothing happened for a while now.
Kaillas saw the glint in Catalina's eyes. He knew what she was up to. And if he didn't value her as much as he did, he would have chewed her out. And she knew that, and that's exactly why she did it. He grabbed his wite shirt and used it as a rag to clean his face and hands kf any sweat before aporaching. He still kept a distance, he couldn't imagine he smelt very good after training for a couple of hours.
"Good morning, Ophelia," he said, bowing at the waist for her. Never had he done that fir anyone since becoming queen. No one but her now. "I hope you slept well." He let his demeanor relax. Ophelia was safe. She was someone safe to be around. She wasn't going to try to kill him or actively undermine him. At least not yet that was.
Ophelia glances at Catalina briefly, noting the mischievous glimmer in her eyes, but she chooses not to dwell on it. Though a warning would have been nice, she isn’t going to hold this against her. She knows that she’s already embarrassed herself and she would prefer to just move on and pretend that it didn’t happen. As Kaillas approaches, she offered him a light smile, appreciating the effort he made to clean himself up before coming closer.
She curtsies in return to his bow, making sure to kind her manners. "I slept quite well, thank you. My room is lovely. Did you sleep well? I hope your training went smoothly."
It’s incredibly difficult for her to focus since Kaillas is still shirtless, having used his shirt as a rag to wipe away the sweat off. She doesn’t want to look directly at him for fear that her blush will never go away. She may be a bit naive but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t know how to appreciate what she’s seeing.
Kaillas studied her for a moment. His lips turned up onto a smirk as he noticed she wasn't making eye contact with him. In fact, it it looked like she was avoiding looking at him at all. And it must be because of his indecency. It was nice, almost. Most people just gawked at him. Women stared at his body, judging or lustfull. Men looked at his scars and thought to themselves what he must have gone through to get them. Or they looked at him in jealousy that they did not look as he did or had the title he did.
This shyness was nice. It was much different from what he was used too. And he was going to enjoy it greatly after they had married and it was more appropriate to be in such a state around her.
Kaillas didn't answer the question about his sleep. She wouldn't like the answer he would have to give. "My training has gone very well, thank you. I was just about to go my rooms to get ready for breakfast." He thought about asking for her to accompany him but a breeze came by and he got a whiff of himself. Maybe not. "I trust your morning has been good to you?"
