forum Royal Affairs (O/O Closed)

Started May 08, 2023 by @LolaBug

tune

Her kisses were as every bit of soft as Ophelia was. It instilled Kaillas' fear that one wrong touch and she would break. She was so soft, so sweet, and he was not. He was hard and sharp. He was terrified to hurt her.

His eyes were shut as he leaned against her. He was soaking in this moment. He listened to her breaths. And he if he listened just close enough, he coukd feel her heart beating in her chest. He was sure she coukd hear is. It was pouding. He was worried it was about to jump out of his chest.

He wanted to stay here, hidden in this maze and kiss the night away. But he wasn't sure if she was up for something like that. And their missing presence would be noticed soon enough. It was nearing dinner time and he didn't want to keep their guests waiting.

He gave her one kiss, two, and then he finally pulled away from her. He was reluctant to let go of her entirely but they couldn't very well be found entangled like this. Even after they married, there was only so much public displays of affection that were tolerated. And Kaillas was not a public person. He didn't like showing his affections in the eyes of others. Even with his sisters, he rarely hugged them in person.

"Come now, dinner will be shortly," he murmured, offering her his arm. "We can speak later, after you've seen Katya." Speak, or kiss, whichever one was more enjoyable at the time.

Ophelia cherishes the tenderness of their kisses, savoring each moment as if time has slowed down just for them. As Kaillas holds her, she leans against him, feeling the weight of his worries and vulnerabilities. The rapid rhythm of his heart nearly comforting.

When Kaillas finally pulls away, she reluctantly let him go. She recognizes the need for discretion, the boundaries they would have to navigate even as their relationship blossomed. It saddens her that their affections have to be hidden, but she knows the world they live in demand such restraint. Things will be better after the wedding but they'll still have to keep things to a minimum.

"Of course," she replies softly, her voice carrying a hint of longing. "Dinner shouldn't be delayed on our account." She knows that they need to go back to the gathering but she's reluctant to do so. People will notice if they're gone for too long. She doesn't want to draw suspicion and get caught. Granted, they aren't really doing anything wrong but gossip can ruin lives. As they make their way toward the dinner gathering, her mind keeps wandering back to those moments that they just shared together.

She hopes that they'll be able to step away again. These rare moments where they can be alone are something she's starting to look forward to.

Kaillas lowered her head to speak in her ear, his lips brushing against the skin ever so slightly. "Will you let me come to your rooms tonight? We will only talk." He had no intentions of anything else other than perhaps a few light touches. He would use their conjoined door so no one would ever know. He wouldn't risk her reputation. Ladies at court coukd be brutal.

He straightened his back and only walked as close to her as acceptable. He had a lesierly stroll. He was in no rush to get back to the others. If he had a choice, he woukd have stayed in that hedge until night had fallen and it was time for them to retire.

The sun was almost set by the time they returned. Lanterns were lit, lighting up the courtyard. There were a few people dancing, including Elora and Katya. He felt some relief seeing both of them safe and sound. He caught eyes with a steward and motioned for them to start bringing out dinner. It was pushed out in carts and placed on tables set aside.

Kaillas brought Ophelia over to their designated table and took the glass of wine that was offered to him. This was the part he didn't like, speaking to the court. Speeches were not his strong suit. He looked at Ophelia. He had heard about how she had handled the court that morning at breakfast. "Would you like to invite them to eat?"

Ophelia feels a flutter of anticipation as Kaillas's words brushed against her ear. The rebelliousness of his request stirs something within her. She has never been one to break the rules. While he assures her that their meeting would be innocent, the idea of sneaking around does excite her. The fear of getting caught is her only hesitation. After a moment of consideration, she nods. “I would enjoy that,” She agrees softly. The door connecting their rooms suddenly seems like a wonderful thing.

Knowing that they need to be respectable and proper in front of everyone, she maintains what is deemed to be an appropriate distance between them. She stays as close as she thinks she can get away with, though.

As they arrive back at the courtyard, the festive ambiance catches her attention. The lanterns illuminated the scene, casting a warm glow upon the dancing figures. Relief washes over her as she spotted Elora and Katya enjoying themselves. She smiles, reassured by their presence and excited to speak with them when given the chance.

Kaillas's motion to the steward to bring out dinner draws her gaze, and she follows him to their designated table. Accepting the glass of wine, she took a small sip to steady herself. The prospect of addressing the court twice in one day makes her slightly nervous, but she it’s something she must overcome.

Not wanting to deny such a simple request, she takes a deep breath, gathering her thoughts, before raising her voice to address the gathering. "Ladies and gentlemen of the court, esteemed guests," she begin, projecting her voice with confidence. "I extend a warm invitation to all of you to join us for dinner. Please, join us at the prepared tables and enjoy yourselves.”

Food was placed upon the tables and refreshments were available for those that wished for anything other than wine. Pitchers were carried around the courtyard, refilling eager glasses. Kaillas himself had already downed his first glass which was quickly refilled.

Separate plates were set on their table. Ones that had been tasted. This way, there was no room for contamination or risk of poison if the only two touching the food were just the king and his bride. He offered a thankful look to the servant's that placed it on the table. He might not have been verbal with his thanks but he was grateful all the same.

He looked down at Ophelia. "You did wonderfully, my lady." Soon she would be his wife. A notion that he once dreaded he now anticipated. "Perhaps I should have you deliever all of my speeches." He hated public speaking.

He took her plate first and started placing a few items of food on it. He placed it I front of her and grabbed his own food. Pork chops, baked potatoes, some vegetables. He settled in his seat next to her.

"Would you like to dance with me after dinner?" He asked. "These festivities will go on long after midnight. At least the drinking and dancing."

A smile tugs at her lips when she hears Kaillas's praise, feeling a warm sense of accomplishment. She appreciates his support and the acknowledgment of her efforts. The notion of delivering his speeches makes her chuckle softly. "While I would be happy to do so, I'm afraid the court would tire of my voice after a while," she replied in a teasing manner, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

As the servants deliver her food, she makes sure to thank them. She picks up her fork, savoring the flavors on her plate, and listens to the lively chatter and laughter surrounding them. The atmosphere is enchanting. Everyone is so happy and full of life.

Feeling more at ease now, she actually finishes her first glass of wine and gets a refill. This will likely be it for her. Her tolerance is not high since she doesn’t drink often and she’s well aware of that fact.

When he suggests dancing after dinner, her eyes lit up with delight. "I would love to dance with you," she respondes, her voice filled with enthusiasm. She’s thrilled that he asked. She didn’t think that Kaillas is the type to enjoy dancing so she’s happy that she appears to be wrong.

This event seems like it will go on for quite awhile based on what he’s saying. She’s not certain that she’ll make it to midnight but she’s willing to give it a try.

Kaillas took a bite of his food, swallowing and washing it down with some wine before looking back at Ophelia. A flaw of his, or at least as he saw it, was that he was a wonderful dancer. It was all apart of being a master swordsman. He had to be light in his feet, graceful. The best way to learn was through dance. And he was so wonderfully good at it.

He dropped a hand beneath the table and subtly touched the crook of her arm, an affevtionate gesture in his eyes. "This will go on for a while. Likely after midnight. I didn't anticipate either of staying that long which is why I had Katya set to meet with you later. But if you wish to stay longer I can reschedule her for tomorrow. She won't mind." In fact, the princess would likely enjoy getting to stay out a little while longer.

He took another sip of his wine as he gazed out on the crowd. Most of everyone had setted into seats along the table, grabbing food. Katya was still dancing on the floor with some lord's son. He was too old to do anything with her other keep his hand high on her waist. He was being utterly respectful but he still kept a watchful eye. He didn't like it when his sisters got any male attention.

Kaillas finished his plate rather quickly. When served all in one course, he was a fast eater. Always had vern, even before leaving the palace. His plate was taken away as soon as he had placed his utensils down and his glass of wine had been filled. This woukd be his last glass, not that he was feeling any of the effects of it.

He sat back in his chair, just watching. Had he felt truly scandalous, he would have placed his hand on Ophelia's thigh. But he felt like he had done enough with her today. Perhaps another day he would try. Perhaps somewhere a little more quiet.

Ophelia enjoys her meal, savoring each bite as she listens to Kaillas's words. The touch of his hand on her arm beneath the table sends a shiver of warmth through her. She appreciates his consideration, his willingness to reschedule the meeting with Katya if she wishes.

She glances at Katya on the dance floor, her eyes filled with amusement as she observes her spirited movements. It’s not hard to tell what Kaillas is thinking right now, espically since she knows how protective he is if his sisters. Not that she can blame him after what happened with his family.

With her plate cleared away, she set her utensils down and took a sip of wine. The lively atmosphere around them, the music, and the laughter, all contributed to the joyous ambiance of the celebration. She leans slightly closer to Kaillas, her voice low as she responded to his suggestion.

"I think it’s best to let Katya have her freedom. If she wants to stay out later tonight, I don’t wish to hinder her. I have no qualms with rescheduling.” She wants the girl to have fun. They will have plenty of opportunities to speak later on. It’s not as though their conversation is urgent.

Ophelia glances toward the girl once more, a smile gracing her lips. She’s sure that she'll have stories to tell after tonight and she looks forward to hearing them when the time is right.

She rests her hand gently on top of Kaillas’, looking over to him. “Shall we go join everyone on the dance floor?”

Kaillas blinked, almost startled as Ophelia spoke to him. He had been too focused on watching Latya dancing with that boy, even as everyone else had slid away to eat. They woukd need to have a talk. Not only was he too old for her she was too young to be thinking about such things.

He nodded his head. He woukd Catalina tell her the new later. After she had settled down to eat. But she still needed to be in bed by eleven. "She will be thankful for it. I'll make sure you have time tomorrow." The wedding was less than a week away. Time was of the essence.

He looked down as he felt her hand on his. He raised his thumb to just softly caress the side of her hand. He gave her a gentle smile and nodded his head. "Yes, let's." He got to his feet, taking her hand to lead her to the center of the dance floor. Katya had thankfully parted from her partner to watch as they approached. The dance floor had cleared entirely to let them dance together.

The music paused for a moment, letting then get into position, before a more upbeat song began to play. Kaillas knew the steps well. His feet guided along the makeshift floor.

As Kaillas takes Ophelia's hand and led her to the center of the dance floor, a surge of excitement courses through her veins. The crowd parts to give them space, and she could feel the curious gazes of the courtiers upon them. But in that moment, all that mattered is her and Kaillas.

As the music starts, she follows his lead, matching his steps with grace and fluidity. She revels in the feeling of being in his arms, their bodies moving in perfect harmony. She is swept away by the rhythm, the energy, and the joy that surrounds them. Dancing is a something that was was taught at a young age so she’s able to keep up without a problem.

The dance floor seems to shrink, the world narrowing down to just the two of them. Her eyes lock with his and she can’t help but smile, feeling a deep sense of contentment wash over her.

They twirl and spun, their movements synchronized. Ophelia marvels at Kaillas's skill,l and his poise, having not expected this of him. It was clear that dancing was like second nature to him. She couldn’t begin to fathom why but she certainly isn’t complaining.

Kaillas was spinning her around the floor. They moved well together. They were the perfect partners, at least on the floor. Everything faded away from him. The people as they watched from the sidelines and even as a few joined the floor with them.

Kaillas had never enjoyed dancing, not like this. It always felt like a chore to him. Even dancing with his sisters, he could only dance for a song or two before he was done. But with Ophelia, he felt like he could dance all night.

As the third song began to play, they were interrupted by his sister Elora, stealing Kaillas away from Ophelia. But she wasn't left alone for long. Ambrose, his Hand, stepped in and took Ophelia I'm the dance.

"I don't believe we've had a chance to meet," he said, "My name is Ambrose. I'm the king's hand. We were stationed with each other in the army." He had been there the day Kaillas had received the news of his family's death.

As the third song begins, she smiles as Elora approaches them. She steps away so the two siblings can dance together. It’s sweet to see how much Kaillas loves his sisters.

Happy that Kaillas and Elora are getting to spend some time together, she prepares to step off of the dance floor for a quick break. That does not happen. Before she has a chance to step away, she’s approached by a man who introduces himself as the king’s hand. She’s been wanting to meet him so she’s happy to take this chance to do so.

It's a pleasure to meet you," she replies, completely sincere. She’s heard a little bit about him and is aware that he and Kaillas have known each other for years. It’s her assumption that they’re friends. Or at least as close to friends as possible.

Regardless of if he and the king are friends or not, she knows that Ambrose has a position of high power in the kingdom. It would be best if she gets on friendly terms with him.

Ambrose looked down at Ophelia, sending her in a twirl before brining her back to him to continue the dance. He raised his eyes slightly to look at Kaillas and his sister, smiling at how happy he looked.

"I don't know what you've done but he is infatuated with you," he said. "I have never seen him behave this way for a woman before. And especially not one he's only known for a day or two."

He lowered his voice as he brought the princess closer to him. The music should be loud enough that no one would overhear but it was better safe than sorry. There were always listening ears around here. "Be careful with him," he murmured, "He may not seem like it but he is a fragile man. He's been through too much. I can't watch him go through anifhsd heartbreak."

He remembered the day Kaillas was told of the news of his family. He remembered the day the palace raven came in and they new it wasn't good news. He woukd never unhear the king's screams. Kaillas didn't even cry that much when he got the wound on his face. In fact, Ambrose had never seen him cry before that day.

While the dance itself is fun, she’s merely waiting for the conversation to begin. She knows that the king’s hand didn’t come over here and introduce himself merely to be nice. There is more to it. She understands that.

Ophelia’s expression softens as she listens attentively to Ambrose's words. She can sense the genuine concern in his voice. It’s good to see first hand that the king’s hand actually cares about him. She knows that in some courts, the advisors would sell the king out in a heartbeat. It’s reassuring to see that this isn’t the case.

"I appreciate your honesty and your concern for Kaillas," Ophelia replies lightly. "I can see that he carries the weight of his past on his shoulders, and I would never want to add to that burden. I assure you that I will handle his heart with the utmost care."

“Thank you for looking out for him," She adds, sincerity coloring her voice. "Your friendship means a great deal to him, and I can see why. The life of a king can be a lonely one. He is lucky to have someone looking out for his well-being.”

Ambrose wasn't sure how he liked that answer. It felt almost rehearsed. He supposed only time would tell if her words were truth or simply said to satisfy an answer. While she sounded sincere, many people at the court knew how to sound truthful and yet mean the opposite of what they said.

"Tell me about yourself." They knew very little about the princess other than her age and name and that she was prime for child bearing. Not a fact that Kaillas nor Ambrose took well to hearing. "We've heard so little about you."

Perhaps it was a good thing they hadn't heard much. Usually when a royal was well known, it meant that there was something wrong with them. That they were a terrible person or did awful things. Or were put in awful situations such as Kaillas had. Most monarchs knew him because of his family's deaths. That's all they knew about him. And it irritated the king any time they offered sympathies when visiting or visited.

Kaillas was laughing at something Elora said. Probably something provocative. He spun her around until she was dizzy on her feet before pulling her back in.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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