Conflicting Castles (Closed)

@ Jinx...

Prince Nicholas was surprised at her sudden harsh words. He sent his cup of tea down before folding his hands. This was something that he would need to be careful with and truthful, but he wasn't entirely sure how. "Let me assure you of at least one thing, I am not afraid of you Princess Camilla, nor do I plan to try and handle you. I respect you and the future position that you will be taking into my life. Though considering that I have only met you yesterday, it is true that I want to be careful. It is not that you do not seem trustworthy, but that I want to be careful with how I treat you, so that we may have a better chance at a good future together. Also, I do not want to upset you with politics so soon. It will probably be an issue at some point in our marriage, but I do not want it to be an issue within the first few days of meeting you. Which is why I decided not to bring up what I was talking about with your ambassador. Though, since it seems that honesty is important to you, I will tell you that we were discussing finishing the policies that created because of the end of the war, as well as the new trade agreement. While I do not know your stance on many things, I am sure that the war and the effects from it would be a touchy subject between us." Nicholas stared softly at Camilla, waiting for her response.

---

Charlotte blinked a few times at Persephone's question. The issue was that Charlotte was not entirely sure where she would be eating breakfast tomorrow. After being so wrapped up ensuring that her position as heir would still be strong, she forgot to attend to ensuring that her daily life was also taken care for. Would it be rude to eat breakfast in her room tomorrow? She wasn't entirely sure if the Crosslakes ate breakfast together consistently or not. It also would be safer for her to just eat in the dinning hall tomorrow in case they did, but she had no idea where that was. "To be honest, I am not entirely sure yet."
At this point Charlotte turned her head to Prince Felix. Though when she looked at him, she noticed an odd look on his face. He seemed transfixed almost. Her head turned to the side slightly in confusion. Was he watching something behind her? Or perhaps he had managed to fall asleep with his eyes open. "Prince Felix?" She asked him. "Are you okay? You seem so...calm." That was the best way she could describe the look on his face without being rude. It wasn't a bad look, she was just confused as to why it was happening.

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla smiled as Nicholas addressed the issue. She waited for him to finish and nodded satisfactorily. "Please call me Camilla. You do not need to be so formal with me, nor do you need to treat me as if I am so fragile." she said and smiled softly. "I have always found the truth much more prosperous. I am well aware of the circumstances that brought me here and though they were not ideal and in some ways unsettling I take each day as an opportunity to move forward. I rather not dwell on the things of the past when the future is so bright. As for the politics I highly doubt they will effect our marriage seeing how this was not particularly a choice marriage to begin with. Besides I am not well versed in politics and even if I were I find keeping state matters out of relationships keeps things much smoother. I strive not to have touchy subjects, that does not mean I do not feel the emotion behind them but simply that I can set them aside to see to the resolution of such issues. All that being said I appreciate your concern and your attempts to spare me a little grief but please let me handle that myself. As you see if something is bothering me I will surely let you know. Prince Nicholas I am not worried about our future or how we will get along. I already respect you and see how we could have many pleasant and also many productive conversations. Indeed this seemed to have all worked out into some kind of a happy accident." Camilla said and could feel the secrets she kept like a wet cloth over her face. None the less she was going to continue as if she had not been asked to spy on her husband to be. Camilla sipped her tea pleasantly enjoying the fact that her and Nicholas were taking a step towards a better future together.

---

Persephone smiled as she said she didn't know. "If I may my lady the dinning room is rather lively in the morning and is a good place to start the tour. If you would like I could show you the way there before we head back to your room for the night." she suggested.
Felix chuckled as Charlotte looked at him confused. He liked that he could be more than she had expected. "Thank you for your concern Charlotte but I assure you I am perfectly fine. I was simply enjoying the presence and beauty of my fiancee. Excuse me for making you feel uncomfortable." he said and then sat back into his chair looking at her and waiting for her reaction. He wondered is she would be confused some more or if there was something that would make him wish he hadn't spent that extra second to look upon her face.

@ Jinx...

Nicolas smiled back at Camilla during her response. It was no longer harsh, but rather just firm. He could already see what type of relationship that she was hoping to have, and he believed that it was one that he could provide and be a part of. "I understand. I shall be more open and honest with you in the future. There was really no reason for me to keep secrets besides saving our feelings, but I can see how that will be unneccesary." He told her before beginning to drink his tea again. That had gone over much better than he thought it would. For whatever reason, what he thought would be a large fight turned into a peaceful discussion. Though of course he preferred the peaceful discussion over the fight that he was expecting.
Though now that that was settled, he felt like he could move onto a different subject. "And as for what we were talking about earlier, it would be difficult to have you learn most things by seeing it. Though I hope that you will be able to go out and learn about the country besides just reading in a book. If you find that you are not getting that, then we could always go take a ride and see what is happening in town, or somewhere else." Nicholas mulled over the thought of showing her the country. He rather liked the idea of traveling with her.

---

Charlotte was completely caught off guard by Prince Felix's candidness and the fact he used her name so informally. Having Prince Felix be so outright caused her to chest to tighten and for her to blush softly. This would never happen at home, where even if one did stare, they would keep their reasoning to themselves if it was something that that nature. Goodness, even holding hands was intimate there! So how was she suppose to handle this when so was used to the stares but not the words that apparently came with them? And on top of that Charlotte wasn't even sure if she appreciated the words or not. It seemed like a sweet thing to say, but was it really? Charlotte just ended up giving Felix a small nod. It seemed like the easiest option. She was able to acknowledge that she heard what he said without really taking a stance on what he said. It also seemed like a better option than what she almost blurted out...
Charlotte then turned her attention back to Persephone, which was a much easier situation to handle. "Thank you Lady Persephone for your suggestion. I shall be in the dinning room tomorrow morning. And there is no need to show me the dinning room tonight. I am sure I can find my way there tomorrow." Charlotte was sure that there would be a guard outside her door for the whole night. In the morning, she could just ask him where it was. She then softly smiled at Persephone, hoping she would know that it was the end of the conversation.

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla smiled as he now moved on after they had settled the kind of relationship they were going to have. Camilla was glad she had laid out the ground rules quickly because now it seemed she would be able to just enjoy Nicholas. She nodded knowing that it really wasn't practical for her to learn everything by seeing it but she could dream about it at least. When he told her though that they could take a trip she nodded. "Oh yes please." she said the light returning to her eyes as the thoughts of earlier slipped away filled with new and exciting prospects. "I would love to go into town and see your country. I have mostly seen the sea and though I do love the sea I think it would be wise for me to see the country and even more so to visit with the people. After all how will they ever respect me and trust me if they do not know anything about me than were I am from?" she asked thinking about how wonderful it would be to be out of the castle and traveling around this new country with someone that had nothing but love for it. "I am sure in a few months I will be ready to at least do that... if we're not wed by that time." she said and bit her lip and looked down at her tea. This seemed to be a tricky subject to bring up. "Prince Nicholas if I may... I have no information about when the ceremony will be. I realize I have a lot of preparation to do for our reign but since I know nothing else I am assuming the ceremony will be done in tradition Veinna style. Is that correct?" she asked trying to find a way to ask when they will be wed. Camilla sat anxiously in her chair and took a sip of her tea then set it back down looking at Nicholas and finding herself blushing. Nicholas was handsome and she could see now he was also kind and wise. He would make a great king and she hoped just as good of a husband. Even if she wasn't planning on staying her forever she at least wanted what she did spend here to be happy years.

---

Felix realized how informal he had been and chuckled. "Pardon my rudeness Princess, I seemed to have lost my thoughts." Felix ran a hand through his hair surprised with her lack of response but her face said more than he believed she realized. He enjoyed the flush on her cheeks and and the way she sat up as if she wasn't sure if she should be delighted or insulted. Felix knew when they were married things would be much simpler. He would be able to flatter her without needing an excuse or to feel embarrassment and he would not need to talk to her so formally. But for now he had to remember himself. Felix stood looking at Charlotte then his parents. "Please excuse me." he said and walked out of the room and down to the gardens. He looked at the jasmine that vined its way up the castle and then into the garden were his mother had tried to paint the grounds in a story of flowers. Felix looked from flower to flower and decided that Charlotte reminded him of the darkest red rose. He knew the flowers meaning but it's beauty was similar to that of the woman with thorns who had a harsh tongue and yet soft words.
Persephone curtsied as Charlotte dismissed her. "My lady." she said and then returned to a table she had been at before she had been called over. It made her smile to see that perhaps Felix had a shot at winning over Charlotte after all if he could keep her on her toes long enough.

@ Jinx...
"Maybe next week, I can bring you to see the town close by. While it may not be the huge traveling trip that we should do soon, it would be best for you to see a small part of the country. The town is quite lovely and I think that you would enjoy it." Nicolas told her with a grin. He wanted to show her every inch of his beautiful land. And he was sure that she would enjoy many of the towns that were close by. It was a grand place. Though before Nicolas brings her, there are several things that he would have to take care of. While they were not direct enemies of Aldannia, there were still some tensions due to the war having just recently ended. And it was dying down a bit, especially with the announcement of their new Queen. However, that certainly did not mean that Camilla would be completely safe there. It was just a matter of ensuring both of their safeties. However, that should not be new of either of them. When one is part of a ruling family, there will always be some hostility even at the best times. Anyways Camilla did have a good point. It was important for her to meet the people.
Though when she started to speak of their wedding, Nicolas' mind went completely off of traveling. He was a little surprised that she brought it up. However, it was not like he had not been thinking about the same things before she arrived. And while she spoke of other things, Nicolas believed she was more concerned about the date of the wedding than anything else. "The ceremony date is still up for debate. Some wish for a quick wedding date, where others think that a longer engagement will be a better opportunity for the nobles and subjects to learn about their Queen. Though if you do have a preference, it would not hurt to bring it up with my father. He will be the one to choose in the end." Nicolas knew that was probably not the answer she wanted to hear, but it was their current state. "As for the ceremony, it will probably be a mix of both of our countries wedding styles. Once the date is picked, you, my mother and some of our best planners will start making preparations for the wedding."

---

Charlotte watched Felix walk out of the ballroom. She was quite surprised by his sudden decision to leave and was not sure what to make of it. While she was rather sure that her non response to his words could not have been insulting, Charlotte felt like she was the reason for his sudden absence. Now that Felix left, she was not entirely sure what she should do with herself. Normally, Charlotte would have easily found someone else to talk to, but she did not know anymore in this court besides her ambassador. And it did not seem right to only speak to him when she had just been welcomed to Embernia's court.
Though as she stood from her seat, a noble and his wife came over to introduce themselves. It was probably easier to do so now that she was no longer speaking with Prince Felix. Charlotte smiled softly at the two, as they spoke, and they had treated her quite nicely. They even made some recommendations of what Charlotte should go see within her first year here. It was nice to learn that some would not immediately write her off. By the end of the conversation with them, she had gained a small circle of nobles, wishing to speak to their future Queen. Charlotte could actually be quite warm and welcoming when she wanted to be.
As the party was dying down, Charlotte wished the King and Queen a goodnight before heading back to her chamber. Her guard followed her up to the room and took post outside of her door as she went inside. It had been a long day, and Charlotte was thankful that she was able to sleep in a proper bed tonight.

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla smiled at Nicholas and nodded when he suggested a day trip to a near by town. Anything would do really. Camilla smiled as Nicholas confided in her about the situation with their wedding. She sat there stunned really that there was so much still indicated and somehow the thought of her and his mother working together on her wedding seemed welcoming. "Thank you. I would like to think over the issue you have brought before me and think what would be best for the people and the nobles." she said because ultimately it was their union that would either terrify or encourage the people and the nobles. "Honestly Prince Nicholas I am surprised to hear how much choice and say I get in the matter. Camilla was starting to realize how little say she had over her life and how much she would need to make starting with how soon to marry. Camilla blushed and finished her tea. "Enough business though." she said and smiled at him. "I am sure you have many questions about me as I have many about you. What is most pressing that you would like to know first Prince Nicholas?" she asked.

---

Felix knew it would be good for Charlotte to get out into he feast without him and find the most friendly of nobles. He knew there were a few curious souls that would welcome Charlotte. If there hadn't been he never would have left. Felix decided that he would have a fresh bouquet sent to her room in the morning. Felix headed towards the castle and found a maid telling her with flowers and to deliver them before breakfast. He could tell the feast was ending and he headed to his chambers thinking about Charlotte and what else he might be able to do to show her he was not out to sabotage her or her county. He had every intention of making sure her country was well protected. He could not send Charlotte back to her country but perhaps he could help her rule it after all they were boarding countries it would simply be an expansion of his lands. Felix went to sleep thinking about all the angles he needed to look into.

@ Jinx...
Prince Nicolas was a bit concerned that he made it seem that she had more of a choice on the date of the wedding than she really did. Camilla was certainly allowed to talk to his father, and give him her opinion as well as ask for a certain date, but that did not meant that he would listen. In the end it would depend on what was best for the people, and maybe on much time they wanted to give her to learn. Though since she seemed eager to learn more about him, Nicolas kept his mouth closed. It was unlikely that they would run into a problem with this. And if, for whatever reason, that they did, he would be able to sort it out between the two of them. Camilla seemed reasonable, and he knew that his father was. Besides he wanted to learn more about her than talk about the wedding.
He mulled it over for a moment, thinking about what was the first question that he wanted to ask her. There was so many things that he wanted to know, but some were quite boring questions and others were probably a bit too personal for the first one. Prince Nicolasthen smiled a bit once he figured out what a good first question would be. “If you had a whole day off, how would you want to spend your time?” Nicolas thought it a good question because it gave him a chance to learn of her interests.

---

Charlotte was finishing getting read when a maid knocked on her door. When she opened it, Charlotte was surprised to be given a bouquet of flowers from Prince Felix. After thanking the maid, Charlotte closed the door and set the flowers in a vase by the windowsill. She thought she understood why Felix had been so kind to her in public, to show her respect and she assumed to show his father and the nobles that he was willing to work on their relationship. Though this private display made her think a bit differently of Prince Felix. Maybe he genuinely wanted them to work? After all, Felix was already receiving the marriage, which led to resources for his country and would automatically make him Prince consort of her kingdom. So if that was really all he wanted, Felix wouldn’t need to be doing things like this. As much as she was afraid to think it, maybe Prince Felix was genuinely nice…If that was the truth, it would only make it harder for her to try and win her country back. In reality she had no intentions of marrying him, or co-ruling over both the countries. In fact, she planned on ending this before it got to the wedding.
With a small sigh, Princess Charlotte finished up with her attire before heading out into the hallway. After asking the guard where the dining hall was, she followed him down the stairs and onto the main floor. Charlotte mind turned to what kind of breakfast that they would be serving here. She didn’t bother learning about their cuisine before she arrived.

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla knew she didn't have the last word on things but if she could come up with a logical argument of why it was important than she was sure any logical person would listen. When Nicholas finally asked his question she smiled. "Well if I had an entire day to myself I would probably start the day off watching the sun rise then I would go find a new place to hide in and explore. Once I was done I am sure it would be noon were I would have my lunch in the gardens watching the bugs and naming flowers. After lunch I would find a tree to climb or a hill to roll down." she said chuckling as she watched his face as she explained what she would do if she had no worries. "Then I would go for a nice ride on my horse Odysseus. Once I return to the stables I would brush him down and then spend some time with my family. If I was with my sister I would usually engage her in a conversation and end up making her laugh. But at the end of the day I would curl up with a nice book about nothing I will ever need to know and dream about a life full of adventure and happiness." she said and blushed softly. She hadn't really meant to talk about all of that but it was completely true. "But that is what I would do back at my home. Here I would probably see if I could join you in your daily activities and perhaps we could have a lunch together but if you were to busy I would find someone to get to know." she said and smiled softly.

---

Felix stood as Charlotte entered the dinning room. "Good morning Princess Charlotte." he said and waited until she was seated before returning to his chair. Once Charlotte was served his mother continued talking about the capital events she was planning while his father listened eating and reading over some documents. Felix leaned over and whispered to Charlotte. "Did you get your flowers this morning?" he asked softly. Felix wanted to be sure they were delivered on time. Felix was so use to his family having breakfast and dinner together it didn't even occur to him how special it was. When ever there was time his family ate like this but when they were busy they didn't it was simple to him but his mother had told him that it had been something she had requested they do when he was born. Felix ate his breakfast leisurely.

Prince Nicholas listened to what Camilla seemed to be a perfect day. Though he was a little saddened that the difference between the days of her being at home and being in Veinna. He hadn’t considered the changes that she was going to have to get used to by coming here. They did not have her horse or her sister. She would need to get used to how the land is different here. And Nicholas knew that the books they had here were different from the ones she had in Aldannia. Though he was glad to be a part of what she would do with her day in Veinna.

“I think that sounds like a great day, Camilla.” He told her. Maybe there was a way for him to make her more comfortable here? Maybe make it a little more like home for her while she was trying to transition. Nicholas couldn’t change the land, or bring her sister. He also really couldn’t change the books in the library. Though maybe he should gift her a horse. Camilla was going to need one soon anyways. So why not be the one to give it to her?

---

Once Charlotte was settled and the food was set down in front of her, she began to eat. While it wasn’t like the food at home, it was still quite delicious. At first she was quietly listening to the Queen, thinking that it would be rude to do anything but. Though when Felix leaned over and started to whisper to her, she gave him a small smile. “I did get them.” She whispered back. “Thank you Prince Felix. They really brightened up my room.” With her new suspicions about Felix, Charlotte was beginning to give him a chance. Of course, it was possible that he would prove to be the man that she originally thought. But in case he wasn’t, she now wanted to be kind to him on a personal level. Even if they probably would not agree on a political or relationship level. “Did you get them from the castle gardens?” She asked him curiously.

While Charlotte waited for Felix to respond, she looked over at his parents. She knew that they had gotten an arrange marriage, due to her responsibility as a heir. Though she never knew how well they meshed together. Her own parents had chosen each other, and no arrangement was set for them. That was unusual for royalty, but she had hoped that was the way it would work out for her. Though, watching the Crosslakes made it seem that it wasn’t so bad.They seemed happy together. Maybe they weren't in love though, and that was what worried Charlotte the most about this arrangement. If her plan fell through, and she had to marry Felix, would they only be satisfied?

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla smiled and nodded. "Yes it does sound great." she said completely excited to have the prospect of being able to see this country. Camilla thought about it a little longer before she remembered they were having a conversation. She leaned forward speaking softly. "What about you Prince Nicholas?" she asked. "What would you do with a day without any responsibilities?" she asked and smiled eating some of the fruit that was on the table. Camilla was interested in what Nicholas would say seeing how she knew next to nothing about him. She hoped to get to know him and that perhaps they by some miracle had something in common they could talk about and do together.

---

Felix smiled as Charlotte responded warmly to him. He was glad he had thought to send them. "Yes they are indeed from our gardens. It's a hobby of my mothers and she shared it with me." he said and smiled. "You see each flower has a separate meaning but I just picked the roses because they reminded me of you." he said and smirked. "Be careful not to touch the thorns though, they hurt." he said smirking at the thought he had the night before. Felix looked over to were she was looking and smiled at his parents as his father looked up at his mother with a loving annoyed look he knew so well. He father loved his mother but sometimes she just kept talking long past how long he wanted to listen but he never told her to be quiet and his mother adored him for it. "They really are happy you know." he said suddenly. "They grew into loving one another." he said and looked at Charlotte.

@ Jinx...

"My day would be a bit different from yours." Nicholas said with a chuckle. "I would sleep in, which would definitely cause me to miss the sunrise. Afterwards, I would head down to the stables, take my horse and go riding. Maybe during the ride I would stop to take a swim in the river that is nearby. Maybe do a little bit of hunting. Then come back a little after noon and eat lunch before heading to the training area, have a sparing match or practice some archery. When dinner was finally over I would find someone to spend some time with before it was time to head off to bed. We would probably stay up pretty late."
Nicholas finished off his tea before leaning a little closer to her, and lowering his voice. "Though now that you are also here, I would see if you had time to fit me into your schedule. You are warm company to be around, Camilla."

---

Charlotte slowly turned her head away from Felix's parent and looked at him. It seemed that Felix was able to read her better than she thought he would. "They do look like they love each other. It must be nice that they are so close." She whispered to him before beginning to eat her breakfast again. There was no reason for her to go into her worries about arranged marriages, especially since Felix probably had the same concerns as she did. His parents managed to get lucky and make it work. Though there were many of other arranged royal marriages that have shown what resentment could do to two people. He probably wanted to be happy and in love like she did. Though that was just not something that was a guarantee, and the only way she could ensure her future was taking it back. Charlotte was not one to leave things up to chance.
"What do you have planned today?" Charlotte asked him, deciding it best for them to move on.

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
"That sounds like an amazing day." she said and smiled hoping that after they were married perhaps they could have a day like that together. Camilla smiled at Nicolas and then turned very red as he said that she was warm company. Though she wasn't sure what that meant it caused her belly to stir and her blood to run hot. "Thank you Prince Nicholas you are very pleasant company to be around as well." she said realizing she liked the say he said her name now that he had taken out the princess part of it. Camilla bit her lip supposing it was her turn to ask a question and she bit her lip trying to think of one that would help them to get to know each other even more. Camilla realized this wasn't as personal as his question but she wanted to know the kind of man and king she would be supporting. "Prince Nicolas when you become king what is the first order of business you want to take care of? And if there was one thing you could change when you become king what would it be?" she asked not assuming that he would want to change anything. Perhaps he believed everything was fine with his kingdom but she wanted to know that if it was how he felt.

---

Felix continued to eat until Charlotte asked him a question and he smiled. "I have a few meetings to attend with my father over some policies that will affect our outlying villages. We're hoping to reassure them after the war that they are still protected from the bandits that are sure to arrive now that the troops are receding back into the castle." he said and shrugged. "Other than that I have some practice with the captain of the guard and some studying to do but after practice really it's left up to me how I spend my time as long as I keep up on my studying. So if you were feeling like some company I am sure your tour will end about the time I start training. If you wanted to watch you could or I could meet you afterwards." he said and smiled. "We could have dinner privately tonight. I know a very beautiful spot." he said bracing for a rejection of course but he wanted to make himself available to her.

@ Jinx...

Prince Nicolas chucked as he watched her whole face turn red. "There is no need to blush, Princess. It just means that I enjoy your company and that you are very pleasant to be around. I assure you that it means nothing else, but I apologize if I have made you uncomfortable." Seeing her red face excited Nicolas. It was entertaining to watch Camilla get somewhat flustered. Plus if it was this easy to make her blush, it meant that there was a good chance that she liked him too. Which would be nice since Nicolas was already developing some feelings for his foreign fiancee.
Though when she asked what he would want to do as King, Nicolas straightened up a bit. It was a good question to ask, especially since he wanted to know the same thing from her. However it was difficult to answer. There were a lot of things that he would want to chance, but some of them were possible yet, others would take years and even more would be bad to start out with. His first act as king would need to be something that the nobles and the people could rally around, and cheer him for. They would judge him harshly for the first year until he was able to prove himself. "There are a lot of things that I want to do in order to make my country better and to continue to thrive. Though my first order of business would be to show that I am a strong leader that only wants what is best for my country. I would do something that would make my people more secure, like find a way to help with the drought issue in the north, or lowering the amount of pirates near the sea."

---

Charlotte was quiet for a moment as she thought about what he said. While she wasn't entirely interested in watching him train, she knew that it could actually benefit her to do so when it was time for her to strike back at him. As for dinner, she was genuinely interested in eating with him alone. It would give them more of a chance to speak openly, whereas so far they have always been watched or around others. She thought it odd that while she was trying to give prince Felix a chance, Charlotte was also trying to undermined him in the long run. Yet this was the situation that she was put in.
"If my tour ends around that time, I think I would like to go watch you train. Though no matter what, I would like to have a private dinner with you tonight. It will be nice to actually get to know you a little bit." Her voice was soft and truly welcoming as she spoke to Prince Felix. Maybe her months here would be okay. Charlotte set her silverware down as she finished eating, and a servant took the plate away. Now that she was done eating, it was time to go on the tour. But at least tonight she was guaranteed to learn a little more about the prince.

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla smiled and nodded. "Right. Of course Prince Nicholas. I don't believe you have anything but honest intensions." she said and bit her lip. "I'm just not use to such things, my country is very different."
When Nicholas answered her question she smiled listening to him. She watched the change in him and listened to him talk. "Those are very valiant goals." she said and smiled. "From what I have seen from you Nicholas I think you are going to be a very noble king." she said and smiled softly at him. Camilla mulled over the problems of his country that he had brought up. She had read a few books about irrigation and thought it was something perhaps she could work on in her spare time but it would be best if she could see the land first to understand what she was dealing with.

---

Felix smiled surprised by her answer. He smiled and nodded. "Very well then. I will arrange for our dinner tonight and if you get lost just as a guard were the training room is." he said and smiled at her. Felix was amazed by the change in just a night. If they kept up this progress perhaps they could have a happy marriage after all. His mother had warned him though that there would be a set back before they could really move forward. It was the last hope of determining their own future. Felix could understand it because sometimes he worried about his own happiness with Charlotte but he wasn't going to give up for as long as his stubbornness allowed him to hold onto the hope that it could work out well. Felix smiled as she stood. "Have a good day Princess Charlotte." he said and his parents stopped talking long enough to say good bye. Once Charlotte had left his mother turned to him looking at him with knowing eyes and he rubbed the back of his burning neck. "It's only the first day mother." he said and she chuckled then returned to the conversation with his father who had actually started to talk to her about what she was planning. His mother was amazing and he knew it. Felix could only hope that Charlotte would be just as good for him as his mother had been for his father. He could only believe that was why his father had ultimately agreed to this arrangement.

@ Jinx...

"Thank you very much Camilla." Nicolas said before giving her a small smile. "I know that you don't know my country very well yet, but I would like to know what you hope to focus on when you become Queen?" He asked her with a smile. "Just tell me what part of ruling you seem most interested in." It was a bit of an odd question since she was not know everything about his country. Though it was important to their relationship and how they would rule together in the future. Plus it gave him a better idea of who she was.
He glanced over at her plate and glass, seeing that Camilla was actually done with afternoon tea. Nicholas stood up and offered her his hand. "Would you want to walk around the garden with me?" Nicolas hoped that she would say yes. He didn't want their time together to end just yet. Plus he had a feeling that it was something she would enjoy quite a bit.

---

Charlotte headed out of the dinning room with a little smile on her face. While she still wasn't sure about him, she was now willing to actually give Felix a chance that he was nice. And though it wouldn't matter in the end, at least it would make her time there easier. As she walked out of the dining room, Charlotte ran right into Persephone. After getting through greetings, they started the tour of the castle. She followed the lady through the castle, trying to keep it all right in her head. It was going to be important for her to know where everything was. After all, Charlotte did not want to be walking around lost all of the time.
Towards the end of the tour, Charlotte was actually pretty impressed with the castle. It very nice and there were a few areas, like the garden, that Charlotte absolutely adored. She turned to Lady Persephone, giving her a bright smile. "Thank you for being my guide today." Persephone had been a great tour guide. And with how quickly the tour went, she had some time to speak to her before the training session that Felix had invited her to. "What are you normally doing when you are not giving tours?" Charlotte asked her curiously. She was going to be in need of ladies in waiting (she couldn't bring her ones from home for a while) so she thought that Persephone may be a good choice.

(I hope you don't mind that I skipped most of the tour)

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla smiled as he asked the question back to her and she was quiet for a while until Nicholas asked her on a walk with him. "Yes please." she said and stood. She looked at his hand and blushed again. "You know this is very odd for me to do and in my country it would only have been allowed because we are engaged." she said and placed her hand in his. His hands were so nice. She wanted to study them to feel them and that only made her cheeks burn brighter.
When they were walking agin she got back to thinking of his question. Camilla smiled and looked at Nicholas before she looked out at the gardens. "Well in my country I was not expected to rule but I was often given the role to encourage our people and bring notice to things Charlotte was to busy to see. In a way I was her queen to her king status." she said and chuckled at the thought of her sister being labeled a king. "I do not know your country but most importantly they do not know me or the kindness I wish to bestow upon them. So if I don't get to do that as princess that would obviously be the first thing I do. But if I have already established that with your people when I am crowned then I think other than supporting you and talking to the people I would help the children. The orphaned and the helpless because it truly is children that are the future. And honestly if you win the hearts of the children the parents and those that care for the children are not far behind." she said and smiled thinking about it was liberating in some ways. She would have powers she never had dreamed of and the ability to do so much good. "Then I would find some way to spread joy. It's not very specific I know but happy people are loyal people." she said and bit her lip peeking back at Nicholas nervously to see his reaction.
Camilla wondered what he thought of her. He was so collected and it made her want to find what made him joyful and break him into laughs and smiles. Camilla found joy in bringing joy.

---

Persephone smiled as their tour came to an end. "Honestly my lady I spend most of my time with the maids helping them out because since my princess has been married I have had little to do." she said. She knew usually she would stay with her princess through her reign but Persephone's home was here and so was the noble who had stole her heart and her princess had known that. "I would happily make myself available anytime you wished for another walk around the castle or perhaps you needed information about the nobles. There are a few I would like to warn you about my lady. Everyone knows them but they are slick and dangerous if you are new here." she said and looked down remembering how the prince had gestured to the most dangerous of nobles that had attended the feast. She found it sweet how he had wanted to protect Princess Charlotte even after just meeting her.

@ Jinx...

Nicholas' heart seemed to warm as she listened to what she wished to do. The things that Camilla wanted to do were truly great, and it was exactly what he needed in a Queen. Someone that just wanted to help his people. It was possible that Camilla would not be able to help him much with policy, or war if it came to it. Though she would be able to raise his people's spirits if it needed to be done. "I think that sounds pretty amazing, Camilla."
He squeezed her hand softly. While Camilla told him that it was odd for her people to do something like this, he was hoping that she would grow to like it and be comfortable with it. Nicolas wanted to be close to his bride. "Even though it is odd for you to hold my hand, do you think you could get used to it or grow to like it?" Nicolas asked her. He wanted her to be comfortable, but he really did want to be able to hold Camilla. Especially when they got closer.

---

"Well, I think that I would like to have you around a bit more often, Persephone. Currently, I am without my ladies in waiting and I am unsure of when they will be able to come here. Would you be interested in the position?" Charlotte knew that it was an honor to be asked to be a lady in waiting, so she was sure that Persephone would accept unless she had an issue with doing so. "Though I would like you to think on it before you give me your answer. I would need you to keep your digression for both me and my country." Charlotte knew the night before that Persephone said she would keep her secrets, but she also needed Persephone to keep the secrets of her country too. While she would make sure that she did not learn much, there were things that Charlotte couldn't control. "You do not have to give me your answer tonight. Think about it for a few days before you give me your answer."

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla smiled as Nicholas seemed to be delighted with her response. She smiled and nodded looking pleased with herself as they walked. Camilla thought of her own people and wished there was some way to help them as well. Camilla knew what Charlotte had asked was important but as everyday passed Camilla found it harder to hate Nicholas and his country. The way he treated her and included her made her feel as much a part of it all as he was.
Camilla blushed as he asked if she could get use to holding his hand. It was the sweetest call for desire she had ever seen or hear. Camilla took a deep breath then told him the truth. "I already do enjoy it Nicholas." she said and looked at him again timidly. Camilla realized that to most people she came off as fragile or timid sometimes even incapable but all those people regretted the decision to underestimate her in any ways. Camilla couldn't change how she acted though. She was soft and kind unless the situation failed for something different. Camilla could be fierce and strong if she had to. It was in her blood after all.

---

Persephone wanted to immediately say yes but Charlotte asked if she could keep the secrets of Aldannia as well. "I will take some time to think on it my lady thank you." she said and smiled brightly. "Is there anything else I can do for you at the moment my lady that will please you?" she asked hoping to help Charlotte feel welcome and like she had a friend she could ask questions to. Persephone knew she wasn't a friend yet but she could be.

@ Jinx...

Nicolas grinned down at her, a surge of happiness moving through him as he heard her words. It was a relief to hear that she already enjoyed it. Especially since it had been so quick that he developed some feelings for her, so he was glad that she seemed to be feeling the same way already. "I am pleased to hear that Camilla." He told her, as he lightly squeezed her hand. Now that camilla was here, he had an idea of what he wanted for them, and it looked like it was going to be a good future.
As Nicolas was going to start talking again, he saw Camilla's tutor heading down to the grounds. He let out a chuckle before turning to where the tutor was coming from. "It has been nice spending time with you princess, but I think that it is time for you to get back to your studies. I think we may have been here a bit longer than we thought." Nicolas found the tutor rather amusing. After all it was the one he had, and she used to do the exact same thing to him. "I will see you later tonight Camilla." Nicolas pressed a soft kiss to her hand before letting go.

---

"Thank you Persephone, but I am good. It is time that I head down to the training area to watch Prince Felix and his guard." Once Persephone curtsied to her, Charlotte made her way down to the training grounds. The guard that had been following her for most of the day started to lead rather. She wondered how long it would be until they felt that the guard was no longer necessary. That and how long it would take the guard to begin to feel a bit more comfortable around her. It was clear that he was somewhat on edge, though that was understandable. So on the way down, she began to make some small talk with him.
When they got onto the field, Charlotte headed onto the side, ensuring that she would be out of the way during training. At the moment they guards were still getting ready for their training. From where she was, it looked like it one of the activities that they were going to do today was sparing.

@ Mother.Of.Dragons
Camilla smiled softly. She looked up seeing her tutor and she groaned smiling and shaking her head. "Oh no she found me." she said and laughed. She stopped looking at Nicholas and smiled. "I look forward to some more time with you Nicholas." she said and blushed as his kissed her hand. She felt like a teenager gushing over the cute guards in training with her sister. Camilla bit her lip and walked over to her tutor and smiled as her tutor scolded her about all the things she needed to learn before she was crowned. "Yes ma'am." she said and chuckled heading back up to her room regretting stepping into he castle already. She would rather study under a tree int he grass somewhere but it didn't seem like that was going to be happening anytime soon. Camilla sat back at her desk she had ordered to be moved by the window and she looked out a moment thinking of Nicholas before looking back at her books. She sighed as she tried to keep up with her tutor.

---

Felix came out dressed like one of the guards. He created them all by name and then they began. Felix spared a look and a smile for Charlotte before he started to focus on the challenge at hand. Felix was strong and had great strategy on his feet. He moved with efficiency and power, it was a dangerous combination and most of the guard had a hard time keeping up. The only one matched to him was the captain. Felix wasn't ashamed to show off either for Charlotte. He wanted her to see that even in his leniency and his kindness there was strength. He knew she was starting to see his kindness but there was more to him and Felix wanted to earn her respect.