The Beasts Inside Us

@ BadStreetBoys

As Ivan mentioned there being some tension at his night out, Charlotte gave a little nod. It sounded about right to her. When didn't something come up when everyone was drinking? It tended to be a popular time for someone to say something stupid. "Something always happens during a night out with drinking, right?" She responded with a little smile. "All that matters is that you enjoyed your time with them and are in a good mood by the time you get home."

"I am glad that you had a good night out." Now that Ivan was settled into the bed, Charlotte set her book to the side and got onto her feet. She made her way over, sliding into the bed herself once she got there. Although she really wasn't all that close to Ivan, she was glad that he was there. It felt better knowing that someone would protect her in the night when there were enemies all over... God it would have been so much better if they stayed in her country.

"I was okay," Charlotte responded as she shifted to lay down. Though she turned so she was facing Ivan, still looking at him as they spoke. Her eyes were getting heavy, however, as her body was desperate to rest. "I just had some dinner and then came to relax in here... but yes, lets relax. It has been a difficult week," She murmured as her eyes slowly closed.

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan nodded as he listened to Charlotte speak. He was glad she had a relatively relaxed evening. He was more glad his father wasn’t demanding things of her snd his brothers had left her alone. His eyebrows furrowed at the thought of his family. Though at her next words those thoughts vanished and he couldn’t help but nod in agreement. “Goodnight Princess.” He murmured.

Ivan laid down as best he could and as comfortable as he could. His arm was still very broken, but hopefully by morning it would be more healed. He knew this would take at least a week of sleeping normally to heal. The Prince was eventually able to drift off to sleep.

In the morning Ivan was woken up by pounding on the door. The prince was agitated and quickly got out of bed and moved to the door. He was ready to chew the head off of whoever was behind this door. He didn’t feel he or Charlotte deserved to be so rudely awakened. When the Prince opened the door, his mouth was open and he was about to shout at whoever was behind it. But as soon as he saw King Markov he shut his mouth and straightened up. The King looked down at his son and raised an eyebrow at the outfit. “Sleeping in?” The King commented. “Yes sir.” Ivan responded. The King waved a hand dismissively before continuing. “I want you and the Princess to go out and make appearances. I want the people to get used to seeing her. If you go out on dates like a happy couple the country will like that.” Ivan raised an eyebrow at the request. “Sir, my arm still is broken and the country is clearly divided on their feelings for Princess Charlotte, are you sure this is the best way to go about it?” The king glared at his son. “Do no question my demands, just follow them, Ivan.” He said and placed a hand on Ivan’s shoulders. “I have reservations for you two to have lunch at the Lord and Lady Ovechkin’s restaurant. I expect you to be there and I expect you to do your country proud.” Ivan frowned slightly as he looked away from his father. The King may be in charge of the country but Ivan knew the man didn’t know what it meant to make his country proud. Ivan had worked tirelessly to earn the love and adoration of his country. He did his country proud every day. And it irked him when his father used that against him.

@ BadStreetBoys

Charlotte was woken with a start when there was pounding on the door. Though before she even had time to turn over in the bed, Ivan was already making his way to the door. She pulled the blankets over her body, only her eyes could be seen from under the pile. In truth, she was still exhausted and the last thing she really wanted was for someone to see her right as she woke up in the morning... Charlotte could not help but wonder if she was going to be woken up so early often. Vampires barely slept but Charlotte needed her rest.

A deep frown came over the princess' face at the King's words though. She held her tongue. Although Charlotte was more than willing to argue with her own father until they were both blue in the face, Charlotte wasn't quite ready to do that with King Markov. It seemed like she would be playing a dangerous game if she started to do all of that. Though once the King was gone and Ivan had closed the door, Charlotte sat up and looked to him.

"I... I do not want to go out," Charlotte told him, her voice soft and drowsy. It was only two days ago when she had gotten attacked on her way here. At that point, Charlotte had not even gone into the fucking town! And how the King wanted her to actually go into the place where there were more vampires? Specifically ones that he did not have as much control over like the servants in the castle? Was this man trying to kill her?!

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan shut the door as his father left, grumbling to himself as he made his way back to the bed. The Prince was awake for not even five minutes and in a sour mood. All he wanted to do was go back to bed. The man climbed back into bed and pulled his blanket up and over him as well. He didn’t want to take the anymore out on Princess Charlotte, she deserved it the least. “I know.” He mumbled as he turned in the bed, facing away from her.

Ivan wasn’t sure what to do. He couldn’t disobey his father, but he couldn’t take Charlotte out in good conscious knowing he wasn’t able to protect her with 100% of his ability. He had sworn to take care of her snd his vows meant something to him. He figured he would have to compromise or come up with something his father might agree to.

After calming himself down Ivan stirred a bit, sitting up in bed. He ran a hand down his face and groaned. “I will talk to him again. I don’t expect much difference but I will try.” He told her as he gave the princes a sympathetic look. “And I’d die protecting you, Princess just know that.” The man said. Ivan got up and quickly got dressed, he had no time to waste. Once he was dressed he exited the bedroom and began to search the castle for his father.

A little while later Ivan returned, he had a displeased look on his face. “So there was a compromise.” He said as he entered the room. Ivan moved to the couch and sat down. “Two knights will be accompanying us to lunch.”

@ BadStreetBoys

Once Ivan had crawled back into bed, Charlotte closed her mouth tightly. She could almost feel the bad mood that was coming off of the prince. Hell, she swore that it was filling the whole room. So she could not see how pushing her wants on him harder was going to help any. But what was she meant to do now? She could go talk to the King... But Charlotte would have to stay calm which she didn't think was possible at that particular moment.

So, instead, she sunk back down into the bed, waiting for Ivan's next move. When he started to move about, her eyes lifted up and she listened to him closely. "I really rather that you not have to die for me, but thank you," She murmured to him. Charlotte was quite sure that if Ivan died for her then just about everyone would be after her head. Besides, she didn't actually want the guy dead.

Charlotte sat up when Ivan came back into the room. Though his news caused her to take in a deep breath. She didn't like it but... "I suppose that is better than nothing?" Charlotte said after a moment. Two guards and Ivan with a broken arm. Perhaps she should bring one of the items she got from the vampire hunter. The only things she had were for defense but maybe that would be enough if a fight did break out.

"Thank you for trying though. I guess I should get ready." Charlotte said as she slid off of the bed and disappeared in the bathroom. It was an hour or so before she came out, completely dressed and ready to go out to lunch.

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan hated that all he could do was really sit and stew about his mood. He couldn’t take it out on anyone or anything. He just shoved the feeling down snd hid from it. Ivan’s mood was only slightly improved by the compromise between he and his father. A compromise it felt like he had to fight tooth and nail for. He didn’t understand why his father wouldn’t just listen to him, it irked the man to his core.

Ivan nodded. “It was there most I could get the King to agree to.” He said snd nodded as Charlotte hurried off to get ready. He also began to get ready. The man wore an elegant navy blue suit. He attached a sheath to his belt and found one of his shorter swords which he slid into the sheath. Once he was ready the man waited for the Princess. Ivan glanced up as he heard the Princess emerge and gave her a smile. “You look wonderful, Princess.” He said and got up from the chair.

Ivan made his way over and offered one arm to Charlotte. “Hopefully the people’s love and adoration for me levels out their hatred for you.” He mumbled as he led Charlotte from the bedroom and out to the waiting carriage,. He looked at the knights who were accompanying them and nodded to the men.

@ BadStreetBoys

Once Charlotte came out of the bathroom, she pulled on her warm, blue coat. She had specifically picked out an outfit that was more welcoming and soft. It was going to be nearly impossible to turn around the minds of those who hated her but at least not wearing stern, dark, rigid clothes might help. She didn't want to be seen as the evil human princess so it was best if Charlotte tried not to dress like one.

"Thank you," Charlotte said as she took the arm that he offered her. "You look very nice as well." Though at his mention of his people hating her, her grip on his arm tightened. "Then lets hope they have God like adoration for you as they seem to think me the devil." She whispered back to him. This was such a foolish plan. Maybe the vampire king was trying to get her killed.

When they reached the carriage, Charlotte offered a little smile to the knights, saying a quick hello to them both before she moved inside. She sat down on the right side, laying her hands in her lap. "How long of a ride is it to the town?"

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan nodded slightly, his eyes softening as her grip tightened on him. He didn’t understand how it must have felt to feel so powerless and vulnerable. “My people adore me. They love me. I’m the most loved member of this royal family. So we have that on our side.” He explained to her.

Ivan sat across from Charlotte as he glanced out the window, watching the scenery as they began towards the town. “About fifteen minutes, maybe a little more I’m not exactly sure which restaurant he’s having us attend.” He told her honestly, shrugging his shoulders. Ivan had never gotten close to the Lords and Ladies like he was supposed to. He shipped himself off to war instead and bonded with his countrymen.

Ivan was quiet during the ride. His mind was all over the place. He wondered what he needed to do to keep both he and Charlotte safe. He wondered what his father was expecting from him. But he mostly wondered how he could get his people to realize the war was over. When the carriage began to slow Ivan readied himself. Once stopped and the door was opened by the knights the man stepped out, offering his hand to the Princess.

@ BadStreetBoys

When the prince stopped speaking, Charlotte's mind started to wander. Her head was tilted down, looking at her own hands as she wringed them. She was extremely anxious about how this lunch was going to go. And it just made her wish desperately that she was home. There she was loved. But here, no one did. The princess felt quiet positive that no single person in Ivan's country even liked her. Of course, not everyone hated her but...the most anyone probably felt was neutral.

As the carriage came to a stop, her head lifted back up, Though she waited to move until Ivan did, taking his hand when it was offered. As she stepped out from the carriage, Charlotte took a glance at the town. In the least her curiosities regarding the town were to be quenched. She had wondered what it would look like. Though now she just wished she could muster up a smile for the people in it. No, she was to worried to do so. But she tried to keep her face more neutral or curious as they headed over to the restaurant. Charlotte didn't want to look afraid.

Charlotte headed inside 'Le renard roux' with Prince Ivan, where they were greeted by the hostess and brought to their table. One of the employees took her cloak before she sat down. Though once she had done so, she glanced around the building. It was rather busy, which made sense as it was lunch time. Though many of the guests were staring at them. That was fair... who knew how often Prince Ivan went out and Charlotte had not met any of the vampire nobles, so this was their first time seeing her as well.

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan held onto Charlotte as the couple made their way to the restaurant, flanked closely by both knights. Ivan held her a little closer to him than he usually would, not wanting another incident to occur and if one did he would be able to protect the Princess. His face remained emotionless as it usually did. He always wanted to come off as professional. Though he would smile and be extravagant when he was directly addressing a crowd of people. He loved firing them up and getting the cheers.

Ivan looked around quickly as he noted different exits and took note of the people he believed would be possible threats. He sat across from Charlotte and opened up the menu, skimming through it . His eyes continuously would move from the menu to the restaurant and the people around them. He knew people were staring, some at him as their beloved prince, other at Charlotte because of their disgust or hatred. One knight stood behind each of them.

“I believe the Lord and lady will be out at some point to greet us.” He told Charlotte as he looked across at her. Ivan gave her a gentle smile, hoping to soothe Charlotte’s nerves if even a little. “We will get this over with as quickly as possible.”

@ BadStreetBoys

"It will be nice to meet some of the nobles in the court." Charlotte told him softly. Though she did not respond to the thought of this ending quickly. Of course, she wanted this to end quickly. Nothing would make her happier in that moment to be brought back to the carriage and head out of the town. But who knew if anyone was listening in on their conversation and things could get worse if she started speaking poorly on the people or the town. Even something as simple as 'I want to go home' or 'lets not spend too much time out' could be twisted horribly by those who did not like her.

Trying to distract herself from what was occurring around her, the princess glanced down at the menu. Though at a quick skim, Charlotte had the sinking feeling that there was nothing she could eat on the menu without getting physically ill. A quick glance to both sides to see what was being served also confirmed this. Most of what was on the menu were just blood items, and the things that were somewhat close to human food also detailed it being blood-infused or barely cooked if at all. They even had a salad with balsamic-rabbit blood dressing.

Charlotte had no clue why she was expecting anything else, this was a vampire restaurant. One didn't go to a coffee house looking for mashed potatoes. But it did put her in a pickle. Was not ordering anything an option? That would surely seem odd, maybe even rude. She could ask if the chef could fully cook the chicken that was on there but would she be seen as being difficult? Charlotte could order a meal and then simply not take a bite but that must be worse than not ordering at all. There was an item on the menu she could eat without asking for any alterations. It seemed even vampires enjoyed a bread-cheese platter with butter. But it was only an appetizer. Would it cause trouble if she only ate an appetizer?

When did ordering a meal become so hard? Though she supposed it wouldn't be if the princess wasn't surrounded by people who were looking for confirmation to continue hating her. Sure, they despised her now but they had not met her yet. Charlotte wanted to do her best to not add fuel to that fire. Her eyes lifted up to look at Ivan. Maybe he could resolve this without her having to be the one to say anything? Then it would be Ivan saying something, and they loved him. If not, Charlotte would just have to figure out what seemed to be less offensive to the people around her, as well as the owners...

Reaching out, Charlotte gently took his hand into her. "What are you going to have for lunch?"

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan never minded eyes on him. He was used to it. He had grown up in the public eye. Touted around from a young age as the future king. And after joining the military he had been under constant watch by his commanding officers as he worked his way up. He had been someone who interacted with the public, gave speeches, worked with the people. The King wasn’t big on community service but Ivan had found himself helping build houses for the poor, or working in an orphanage more than once. It was why the people loved him so much. He was just as much a commoner as he was royalty. The man certainly didn’t feel welcomed in the royal family sometimes and during those times the people welcomed him with open arms.

Ivan felt Charlotte’s hand in his and he gave her another smile, having been lost in thought the moment before. The Prince lifted her hand and pressed a tender kiss to her knuckles. He thought if he showed affection and gentleness towards the Princess it may help soften her image to those around them. “Would you like me to order for you?” He said softly. “I’m going to get a steak and a wine.” He told her and squeezed her hand reassuringly. “I’ll order for you, don’t worry.” He said and nodded. Ivan could see the worry in her eyes and wanted to calm those nerves.

Ivan glanced up as the waitress arrived to take their order. He instantly noticed the way the woman held herself, her back to Charlotte, the overly happy smile towards the Prince. When asking what they needed she was directing all her words towards Ivan. Ivan swallowed for a moment. He wasn’t going to make a scene. But he also wasn’t going to allow his people to disrespect the Princess. “Hello dear.” He said. “I’m going to do the steak tartare with a red wine. And my lady.” He said and motioned to the Princess with one hand, while his other gently touched the waitress’ forearm and he directed her body away from his. “Will have the duck soup, well done, and seltzer. Make sure to tell the chef both of these are for Prince Ivan. Thank you.”

@ BadStreetBoys

As she looked up at the prince, Charlotte could feel herself calming down slightly. It was the way he smiled at her and pressed his lips against her hand that made Charlotte feel like it might be okay. Even though she felt vulnerable in this place, at least Ivan had a lot greater control of the situation. And he had promised to protect her. She just hated feeling this way. She used to be the one in control. Charlotte used to love the people's eyes on her for she felt their love and adoration. And she had always known just what they needed, what they wanted from her. Her world really was upside down here.

"Thank you," Charlotte responded to him, offering up the best smile she could in return to him. Luckily for her, Ivan was intelligent. She barely had to say a thing and he knew what she needed him to do. Everything would have been more difficult if Ivan was an idiot. He really was the only good thing about this situation.

When the waitress came over, Charlotte lifted her head up to look at the woman. She was hoping it could be an opportunity to show that she would be friendly to Ivan's people. Admittedly, they were not her favorite after the war and what her own country had lost but... Well, Charlotte wasn't going to be an ass while she was here and if she could show compassion towards them, maybe she could get some in return. Though it was quickly revealed that this would not be her chance as the waitress turned her back towards her and only spoke to Ivan. Bitch.

"You should be resting your arm." Charlotte murmured gently once the waitress had left. "If she doesn't want to address me then let her."

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan watched as the waitress walked away, his eyebrows furrowing together for a moment. It frustrated him, even if they hated Charlotte she was still a royal family member and deserved some damn respect. As he heard her words the man turned his attention back to her. His eyes and face softened as he looked at the Princess. Ivan may not have truly liked her, but he had gained a soft spot for her. He wasn’t sure what it was about her, but he was soft for Charlotte. “You’re still a princess and deserve respect no matter what. It’s uncalled for.” He retorted, though he relented quickly.

“I know.” He murmured back and relaxed his arm again as he looked around the restaurant. Slowly people had stopped their staring and gone back to their own dinners which relaxed Ivan. He was about to speak again as he heard the Lord and Lady’s voice. “Prince!” Exclaimed the man. The couple was older, with graying hair. They both wore matching purple outfits. He in a suit and she in a gown. The Prince stood and offer his hand to the Lord, shaking it with pride. He accepted the Lady’s hand and kissed her knuckles. “Sir, ma’am, it’s wonderful to see you.” He said and motioned to the seats besides he and Charlotte.

The Ovechkin’s sat at the table and both politely greeted Charlotte. “I must say I’m surprised I’ve never been to your restaurant. Although I believe my father said you opened it right around the time I joined the military, and as you know that kept me very busy.” Ivan said with a light laugh. Lord Ovechkin nodded. “You are correct. We are still very proud of you for that decision, Ivan. I remember when you were just a boy and you loved to joke about being king one day and making all these silly rules, you know that kids would make. You’ve grown into a fine young man.” Ivan grinned snd nodded as he thanked the man. The Lady looked between them before her eyes settled on Charlotte. “So Princess, I know you’ve only been here a few days but how has it been. We hope you enjoy your meal here and if you ever come back we can customize anything you need. We have not catered to human taste before, but we are willing to adjust as needed for the future Queen.”

@ BadStreetBoys

Charlotte looked up as she heard a voice coming through the restaurant, calling out to Prince Ivan. Once he moved onto his feet, she did the same, smiling gently at whom she believed to be the lord and lady who owned the business. Charlotte only sat when she noticed that the others were moving to do the same, at which point she turned to the Ovechkin's and politely greeted them back. Although it was a small thing, she appreciated it at the moment. Charlotte wasn't asking the vampires to move mountains for her, just to treat her as she should be from her title. Hell, it would be find if they all just felt neutral about her.

As Lady Ovechkin started to speak to her, Charlotte turned all of her attention towards the woman. A warmer smile came over the princess' face as she offered to customize anything on the menu for her. It certainly was a kind gesture as she was probably the only human they would ever serve. "It has been lovely so far. Prince Ivan has been nothing short of perfect." Charlotte said as she looked to Ivan for a moment, reaching out to squeeze his hand gently before looking back to Lady Ovechkin. "I was given a tour of the gorgeous castle yesterday and today is my first day to visit the town. We had heard high recommendations of your restaurant and decided to come here first."

Perhaps almost everything that Charlotte was saying was untrue... But it was definitely better than saying that she was almost killed, having an impossible time adapting and that she was forced to dine at their business despite her fears. Besides, she wanted the lords and ladies to like her and no one liked someone who only dragged on about their problems. "And, thank you. I certainly do appreciate that. I am looking forward to my meal today. How long have you both been in business?"

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan smiled slightly, returning the squeeze to Charlotte’s hand as he listened to the women speak. He hoped that the more Charlotte spoke among the royals herself the more they would like her and that it would sort of trickle down to everyone in the country. Thought he was not very hopeful for that plan, he had a little bit. Both the Lord snd the Lady smiled and agreed that it was nice that Charlotte was able to tour the castle and come enjoy dinner at their establishment.

At the question the couple looked to each other and thought for a moment. Lady Ovechkin looked at Ivan. “Oh Ivan, how old are you now? 25 right?” She said and tapped her chin. “Forgive us, time passing is very different for us than it is for you I would think.” Ivan laughed softly and nodded. “Well I enlisted and went to boot camp when I was 16, madam, so it would be nine years if those happened around the same time.” He said with a shrug. The Lord nodded and Pat Ivan on the shoulder. “Yes yes nine years, your father came by when you graduated boot camp, he was shocked that you actually did it.” He said and laughed, Ivan rolled his eyes. Not at the Lord but at the memory from his father years ago.

After a bit more small talk the waitress arrived with their food. “Well Prince Ivan and Princess Charlotte it was wonderful talking to you. We hope to see you here again soon.” The Lord said as he bowed and the couple left to allow them to enjoy their meals. Ivan thanked both the couple and the waitress, glad to have a little bit of time just to himself and charlotte. He glanced across at her and gave a smile. “Not everyone hates you.” He whispered reassuringly.

@ BadStreetBoys

"It was a pleasure talking to you both as well," Charlotte said before she watched the both of them walk off. A little smile on her face as she watched them, pleased that at least one thing had gone right during their trip... It was unfair that any of them hated her at all but perhaps if she was just a little patient, things would be okay.

Her eyes shifted over to Ivan as he whispered at her and Charlotte provided a nod of agreement. "I suppose not everyone," She whispered back. As she glanced down at her food, Charlotte pulled her hand away from Ivan so that they both of them could eat. The woman had to admit that her food actually did smell really good and as she shifted her spoon around the soup, she was rather sure that it was cooked properly as well. Charlotte took a bite and was pleasantly met with a good tasting soup. She had been concerned, considering the menu but it seemed that everything might just turn out okay today.

"The soup is delicious." Charlotte told Ivan before she took another bite.

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan licked his lips as he looked down at the steak. He was sure it would probably disgust Charlotte but that was something they’d either need to get used to or compromise on. It wasn’t that he couldn’t eat food the way she did, it just didn’t taste good to him or do anything nutritionally. He cut into the meat and began to eat. His attention was on the food and he kept his head down as he ate, out of habit. It was how he avoided his brothers or the King’s wrath.

Ivan’s attention was quickly broken and he glanced up at her words, nodding in agreement. “My steak is good as well.” He said snd gave an awkward smile. The Prince was so used to burying himself at dinners and ignoring everything around him, it was always hard to be at dinner on a date because he would forget the woman was there.

Ivan tried not to be too quiet as they ate, making small talk with Charlotte. “Do you, uhm, want to see my collection of swords when we return home?” The man asked. He had never been bad with women, but he wasn’t sure how to go about a romantic dinner with someone who he was not supposed to be with and someone who despised him. He felt like an awkward teenager asking a girl what her favorite music was. He tapped his fork gently against the plate as he finished his meal.

@ BadStreetBoys

Charlotte made small talk with Ivan as they continued to eat their dinner. Not that she didn't want to get more into interesting topics but more that she was still highly aware of where they were and the people around them. It was just better to keep the conversations surface level at the moment. Though the more they spoke, the more that Charlotte got the impression that he did not really know what he was doing. So when he asked if she wanted to see his collection of swords, Charlotte's eyes softened and an amused smile came along her face. He was being a bit awkward but she didn't mind it.

"I did not realize that you had a whole collection. I had just assumed you had two, maybe three." Charlotte responded. "But, yes, I would like to see it when we return back." Not much long after, Charlotte had finished eating and set her spoon down. Her hands folded together, laying on her lap as their plates were taken away and the bill cared for. "Perhaps I should show you something as well when we return? I don't have a collection with me but I may have something interesting."

With lunch completed, Charlotte moved onto her feet. The hostess brought back Charlotte's cloak, the princess thanking the woman before pulling it back on. Once she had tied it together at the neck, Charlotte looked to Ivan, waiting for him to make the first step towards the door. Once he had, she followed him out of the restaurant with one knight in front of them and the other at the back.

Once they were outside, Charlotte pulled the cloak tighter around her body. It was freezing and she could not wait to get back home to the fire now. "You know, I think I -" Before the princess could finish speaking, blood was suddenly covering her. Two buckets had been thrown from the crowd of commoners, one from somewhere in front and another from the side. And the amount covered her almost completely. It had covered her face hair and chest. Even some of it had gotten into her mouth while she was speaking and in her eyes. A scream came from the princess, simply from the fear of having something pelted at her.

@ Sweet.Persephone
Ivan appreciated that the Princess didn’t seem to mind his awkwardness. He hated it. He was so used to being the perfect boy that the moments he didn’t know what to do left him feeling so vulnerable. “Before I even enlisted in the military I was trained with swords. I’ve got all kinds, different swords for different occasions or types of fighting or even to match my outfits.” Her told her with a chuckle. “I’d love to see anything you have.” The Prince told her honestly. He figured if they were stuck together then the least he could do was get to know her.

Ivan walked with Charlotte outside, he had his arm locked with hers and held the Princess close. He didn’t want anything to happen to her under his watch again. His head turned to look at her as she spoke. The commoners had damn good aim, hitting Charlotte almost entirely hitting her. Though the moment Ivan felt the splash from her hit him he went into battle mode. The Prince quickly tore off Charlotte’s cloak and tossed it to the Knight trailing them, barking an order at the knight in front. He pulled his suit coat off and wrapped it around Charlotte, grabbing her and hovering over her as he hurried the two of them to the carriage.

Ivan yelled to the driver to just go, pick up the knights later. He sat besides Charlotte and stayed hunched over her, protecting the Princess in case anyone tried anything else while they were being hurried home. After he felt they were safe the prince sat up and began to look at Charlotte with pain and worry in his eyes. “We need to get you out of those wet clothes.” He murmured.