PRINCESS OCEAN

Her name is Ocean and she's the first child to the current king of Azura, meaning she's a princess. But, she didn't grow up in the palace. She didn't have the luxurious life a princess should have. She grew up in the slums in a very small village, and she grew up among her mother's relatives.

Her mother passed away while giving birth to her, as she was told. She never got to meet her, and with each passing day, she regretted coming into this world because it took her mother's life. Now back to her identity,

Her father, the king of Azura, found her among her mother's relatives. And she could vividly recall his face that night when he saw her. He told her she looked exactly like her mother, the late queen.

Ocean couldn't forget staring at his face, with no emotion. She had been living the life of a commoner all her life and just after 19 years, he showed up out of nowhere saying she was a princess?

She cried out her eyes when she was forcefully taken to the palace, where her endless suffering began. When she says suffering, don't think she wasn't getting enough meals, or dresses or whatever a princess should get.

She got all these, but guess what? Each day she would compare her life back with her mum's people with her new life as a princess. She wasn't welcomed here. Her father had taken a new wife before her mother's death. 'Queen Eleanor' who had two daughters.

'Princess Isabella and Princess Camilla'. They were the ones the people and even her father considered the real princesses of Azura.

As for Ocean? She was just a princess by name. She was a princess because her mother had been queen, The maids, guards and everyone all looked down on her.

Let me tell you a little about Ocean, her hair was a cascading blonde and curly, and her eyes shone bright blue like that of the ocean. Lips shaped like that of a heart, she was beautiful.

And so was her mother, Ocean was her replica. She guessed her half-sisters being brunette got jealous of her, she was beautiful, and they were jealous of her blonde curly hair she was the definition of a princess.

All these are just to keep your minds open to her life at the palace, Princess Ocean, the lost but found princess whom they all despised.

There is a custom that states that a princess needs to be betrothed before she turns 20. Ocean was 19 and would be turning 20 the next week. Being a pawn in Queen Eleanor's game, she had decided already on who to tie her up with.

~ ~

Ocean gazed at her reflection in the ornate mirror, her eyes widening with delight. The new ball gown, crafted by the finest seamstresses in Azura, hugged her curves in all the right places. The silk fabric shimmered like moonlight, and the intricate embroidery seemed to dance across her skin. She felt like a true princess, worthy of the throne.

Her blonde locks cascaded down her back like a river of sunset hues, perfectly coiffed by her loyal lady-in-waiting, Lady Margaret. The styling was a masterpiece, with delicate curls framing her face and a sprinkle of pearls woven through the tresses. Ocean's heart-shaped lips curled into a gentle smile as she admired the overall effect.

Around her neck, the sapphire and diamond encrusted necklace sparkled like the night sky, a gift from her father, the king. Her ears gleamed with matching earrings, and her wrists were adorned with delicate bracelets, each one a testament to her royal status.

As she turned to examine her reflection from different angles, the rustle of her skirts and the soft creaking of her corset were the only sounds breaking the silence. Ocean felt like a work of art, a masterpiece created by the finest artisans in the land.

In this moment, she almost forgot the cruel whispers of her stepmother and half-sisters, the constant reminders that she was an imposter, a mere "bastard" princess. Almost.

As Ocean's gaze lingered on her reflection, the door creaked open and Queen Eleanor swept into the room, her silken skirts rustling like leaves. "Ocean, dear, it's time to be a good girl," she said, her voice dripping with sweetness, yet laced with steel.

Ocean's heart sank, knowing what was to come. She nodded, her lips pressed together, as the queen continued, "You are to be betrothed to Lord Thomas, a noble and worthy suitor. He will make a fine husband, and you will make a beautiful bride."

Without another word, the queen turned and glided out of the room, leaving Ocean to follow, her handmaids assisting her as she walked into the grand court. The king, resplendent in his regalia, sat upon his throne, flanked by the nobles and courtiers of Azura. The room was abuzz with whispers and murmurs, all eyes fixed upon Ocean as she made her way to the front.

Her heart raced like a rabbit's as she bowed her head, greeting the king and the assembly. "Your Majesty, my lords and ladies," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

The room gasped and gushed as one, their faces aglow with wonder. "By the saints, she's a vision!" someone whispered. "A true princess, born and bred!" another exclaimed. Ocean's cheeks flushed like rose petals as she straightened, her eyes cast downward, her hands trembling like leaves.

She feared this moment, this public display, this binding contract to a stranger. Lord Thomas, a man she had never met, a man she would be forced to call husband. Her mind raced with doubts and fears, her heart heavy with the weight of her duty. Yet, she stood tall, a statue of grace and beauty, her beauty a shield against the unknown.

The grand court of Azura was abuzz with nobles and courtiers, their finery a kaleidoscope of colours as the betrothing ceremony commenced. The king, resplendent in his regalia, sat upon his throne, his gaze fixed upon his daughter, Ocean. Her beauty was a sight to behold, her blonde locks cascading like a river of sunset hues, her blue eyes shining like a bright sky sky. The king's eyes misted, remembering her mother, the late queen, who had borne him this lovely child.

As the ceremony progressed, Lord Thomas, tall and dark-haired, approached Ocean, bowing low. "My lady, would you do me the honour of a dance?" he asked, his voice smooth as silk.

Ocean's heart sank, but she nodded, her lips pressed together, as Lord Thomas led her to the dance floor. Her half-sisters, Princess Isabella and Princess Camilla, smirked at her expression, their eyes gleaming with malice. They delighted in seeing her in pain, their jealousy and resentment simmering like a pot on the boil.

As the music swirled, Ocean's movements were graceful, her skirts fluttering like a butterfly's wings. Lord Thomas held her close, his eyes fixed upon her face, but she felt trapped, a prisoner of duty and obligation.

Meanwhile, Queen Eleanor whispered in the king's ear, her voice a gentle breeze. "Your Majesty, you are doing the right thing, betrothing Ocean to Lord Thomas. She will make a fine wife, and he will bring stability to our kingdom." Her words were laced with manipulation, her eyes gleaming with a hidden agenda.

The king nodded, his gaze still fixed upon Ocean, his heart heavy with the weight of his decision. He knew not what the future held, but he hoped that this union would bring peace to his kingdom, and happiness to his beloved daughter.

As the music ended, Lord Thomas bowed low, his eyes never leaving Ocean's face. "You are as graceful as a swan, my lady," he said, his voice dripping with charm.

Ocean curtsied, her heart racing with discomfort. She couldn't help but feel like a pawn in a game she didn't understand. Her father, the king, smiled approvingly, his eyes shining with pride.

"Lord Thomas, you have chosen well," he said, his voice booming through the hall. "Ocean, my dear, you will make a fine wife and queen one day."

Queen Eleanor's eyes gleamed with triumph, her lips curling into a sly smile. "Indeed, Your Majesty," she said, her voice dripping with sweetness. "Ocean will bring honor and beauty to our kingdom."

As the court erupted into applause, Ocean felt a sense of dread wash over her. She was trapped, bound by duty and obligation to a man she didn't know, a man she didn't love. Her heart longed for freedom, for the chance to choose her own path, but she knew it was a luxury she couldn't afford.

The celebration continued, Ocean's thoughts turned to the mysterious letter she had received, the one that had hinted at secrets and lies within the palace walls. She wondered if it was connected to her betrothal, if there was more to Lord Thomas than met the eye. Determined to uncover the truth, she made a silent vow to herself: she would not go quietly into this marriage, she would fight for her freedom, no matter the cost.

As the night wore on, the wine flowed like a river, and the laughter grew louder. Princess Camilla, her eyes gleaming with malice, "accidentally" poured a goblet of red wine down Ocean's stunning gown. The fabric, once a shimmering silk, now clung to her skin, stained crimson.

Camilla smirked, her lips curling up in a sly grin. "Oh dear, Ocean, it seems you've had a bit of a mishap!" she exclaimed, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Queen Eleanor's eyes narrowed, her face a mask of disapproval. "Camilla, dear, apologize to your sister at once!"

But Camilla just shrugged, her smile never wavering. "Oh, Mother, it was just an accident! Ocean should be more careful where she stands."

The queen's lips pursed, but she let it slide, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Well, Ocean, perhaps you should go change into something else. We wouldn't want you to ruin the rest of the evening."

Ocean's face burned with anger and embarrassment, but she bit her tongue, knowing better than to cause a scene. With a curtsy, she excused herself, her heart seething with resentment towards her half-sister and stepmother.

As she made her way back to her chambers, the stain on her dress seemed to grow, a constant reminder of the animosity that simmered beneath the surface of the palace.

She hastened to her chambers, her mind still reeling from the embarrassment, she collided with a tall, broad-shouldered figure. Apologetic, she looked up to meet the gaze of a palace guard, his face chiseled and handsome, his piercing blue eyes sparkling with amusement. His striking height made her crane her neck, and for a moment, she forgot to breathe.

The guard's smile sent a shiver down her spine, and her heart skipped a beat. Ocean's cheeks flushed as she realized she'd been caught admiring him. She bowed her head, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm so sorry, I wasn't watching where I was going."

The guard chuckled, his deep voice warm and gentle. "No harm done, Princess. I'm Michael, your new personal guard."

Ocean's eyes widened in surprise. "My personal guard? I've never had one before."

Michael's smile broadened. "A gift from your father, the king. He wants to ensure your safety, especially with the upcoming wedding."

Ocean's mind raced. Her father, the king, showing concern for her well-being? It didn't add up. She thought he'd long forgotten about her, too caught up in his own affairs to care. But Michael's words stirred a glimmer of hope within her. Maybe, just maybe, her father wasn't as indifferent as she thought.

As they stood there, the corridor empty and silent, Ocean felt a strange sense of comfort in Michael's presence. His kind eyes and gentle demeanor put her at ease, and she found herself smiling back at him, a spark of connection forming between them.

~ ~

The next morning, Michael gently shook Ocean's shoulder, rousing her from slumber. She stirred, her blonde curls tumbling around her face like a golden halo. Her heart-shaped lips, pink and inviting, curled into a sleepy smile. Michael's gaze lingered, captivated by her beauty.

"Princess, it's time to rise," he said, his voice low and gentle.

Ocean sat up, rubbing her eyes. "What's the matter, Michael?"

"The king has requested I train you in sword fighting, your highness," he replied, his eyes never leaving hers.

Her face lit up with excitement. "Oh, how wonderful!"

As her maid entered, Michael bowed and stepped out, allowing Ocean to prepare for her lesson. Her maid helped her into a fitted tunic and breeches, her hair tied back in a neat braid. Ocean's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as she donned her gear.

When she emerged, Michael couldn't help but admire her. "You look pretty, princess," he said, his voice sincere.

Ocean blushed, her cheeks flushing pink. "Thank you, Michael."

Together, they walked to the fighting arena, where her family awaited. The king, Queen Eleanor, and her half-sisters, Isabella and Camilla, sat in the stands, their faces stern and unyielding. Ocean's heart skipped a beat, but Michael's reassuring presence bolstered her courage.

As they entered the arena, the queen's voice rang out, "Let us see if the bastard princess has any skill with a sword!" The crowd murmured, their eyes fixed on Ocean.

Michael drew his sword, its steel glinting in the sunlight. "Are you ready, Princess?"

Ocean nodded, her determination evident. "I'm ready, Michael. Let us begin!"Michael began training Ocean, and she proved a quick learner. With each strike, she defended herself with grace and precision, her movements fluid and determined. Michael's smile grew wider, impressed by her natural talent.

As she landed a perfect blow, he whispered, "You're a natural, Princess!" Ocean's face lit up, and she smiled, her eyes sparkling with delight. Her sisters and the queen frowned, wondering what he'd said to bring such joy to her face.

The crowd applauded, surprised by her rapid progress. "She really has royal blood flowing through her veins, as beautiful as her mother," the king muttered, earning a scowl from Queen Eleanor.

But as the training intensified, Michael's strikes became more efficient, and Ocean grew tired. She lost her grip on her sword, and Michael's blade grazed her arm, leaving a small cut. He swiftly knelt by her side, concern etched on his face.

"Does it hurt, Princess?" he asked, blowing gently on her wound. Ocean stared at him, her eyes locked on his, as he continued to tend to her.

Queen Eleanor's voice interrupted them, her tone sharp and disapproving. "A guard shouldn't be touching a princess that way, Ocean! You don't know your rights, you're dumb!"

Ocean's face flushed, but for the first time, she spoke back, her voice clear and strong. "I'm not dumb."

The queen's eyes widened in shock, while the king smiled, surprised and proud of his daughter's courage. "She isn't dumb, Eleanor. She's the best sword fighter I've ever seen, considering she's a princess and learns fast. Good job, daughter. I'm proud of you..."

Tears welled in Ocean's eyes as she smiled back at her father. The king departed, followed by the queen and her daughters, their faces still twisted in anger. Ocean turned to Michael, her smile returning. He smiled back, leading her to the courtyard to tend to her wound.

As they walked, Michael whispered, "You're brave, Princess. And talented. Don't let anyone ever make you feel otherwise." Ocean's heart swelled with gratitude, her trust in Michael growing stronger with each passing moment.

Queen Eleanor's voice echoed through the private chamber, her anger and jealousy boiling over. "You've never praised any of my daughters like that, Your majesty! But that bastard child, Ocean, gets a smile and a proud pat on the back from you! It's an outrage, I tell you!"

King Henry's face darkened, his patience worn thin. "Enough, Eleanor! You will not speak ill of my late wife or our daughter Ocean!"

But the queen would not be silenced. "That woman, she was a foolish little girl who got herself killed! And now her daughter thinks she can just waltz in here and steal your attention?"

The king's voice thundered, his authority clear. "I said enough, Eleanor! You will not speak of my late wife in such a manner! She was the love of my life, and I will not have you tarnishing her memory! You will respect her and our daughter, or face my wrath!"

The queen's smile grew wider, her eyes glinting with malice. "Oh, Henry, you're so stuck in the past. I'm your present, your queen. Learn to love me instead."

The king's face turned red with anger, his voice echoing through the chamber. "I will not be spoken to in such a manner! You will respect me and my late wife's memory, or face the consequences! Now, leave my sight before I lose my temper completely!"

The queen's smile faltered for a moment before she turned and swept out of the room, her head held high. She made her way to the maids' quarters, her voice cold and cruel as she issued a warning. "No one is to help Ocean with anything. She's not a full princess anyway. Let her learn to do things on her own. She's not worthy of our help or sympathy."

With that, she disappeared into her private room, leaving the maids and servants to whisper among themselves, their eyes filled with worry for the young princess who had already faced so much hardship.

~ ~

Camilla and Isabella huddled in their room, plotting against their half-sister Ocean. "We need to frame her for theft," Camilla whispered, her eyes gleaming with malice. "That way, Father will finally see her for the imposter she is."

Isabella nodded, her face twisted in agreement. "Yes, and with her out of the way, we'll be the only true princesses left."

~ ~

Meanwhile, Ocean woke up to an empty room, no maid in sight. She shrugged and prepared a bath for herself, having watched her former maid do it many times before. She took her bath, then opened her closet and chose a stunning wine-colored dress with full sleeves and delicate white trimmings. She styled her hair herself, parting her blonde locks into two and tying them up, then applied a light pink gloss to her already pink lips.

Proud of her independence, she walked to the hall, expecting to see her meal waiting. But finding none, she frowned and returned to her room, only to be surprised by Michael with a grand tray of breakfast delights: fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, fresh fruit, and steaming hot chocolate.

"Good morrow, Princess," Michael said, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiled. "You look enchanting today."

Ocean beamed with pride. "I got ready all by myself today, Michael! How do I look?"

Michael's smile grew wider. "You look stunning, Princess. The dress suits you perfectly."

She blushed, her eyes shifting to the meal. "Did you...make this?" she stammered.

Michael nodded, his smile growing wider. "I'd do anything for you, Princess."

She dug in hungrily, declaring it "amazing" and asking him to join her. He declined at first, but she pouted so irresistibly that he finally relented, sitting with her on the floor as they shared jokes and laughter.

"I heard the king's horse got lost in the forest," Ocean giggled.

Michael chuckled. "And I heard the queen's cat got stuck in a tree!"

Their laughter echoed through the room, a rare moment of joy in the palace's stifling atmosphere. As they finished their meal, Michael rose to his feet, bowing low. "I'll leave you now, Princess. But remember, I'm always here for you."

~ ~

Ocean was preparing for her afternoon fighting classes with Michael when Isabella burst into her room, her eyes scanning the space as if searching for something. Ocean's brow furrowed in annoyance, but she reminded herself that a princess must remain calm and composed.

Isabella rummaged through Ocean's belongings, her actions swift and deliberate. Ocean watched, confusion etched on her face, as Isabella finally departed without a word.

Michael entered the room, his expression concerned. "Are you well, Princess? Did Isabella trouble you?"

Ocean shook her head, her golden curls swaying gently. "No Michael. She merely searched for something. I don't know what."

Michael nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "Let us focus on our lesson, then. We have much to cover."

Ocean's face brightened, and together they walked to the training grounds. After a vigorous session, Ocean's blonde hair was damp with sweat, strands sticking to her flushed face. She and Michael played a game of rock-paper-scissors, their laughter echoing through the courtyard.

Michael threw down a rock, and Ocean countered with scissors. "Ha! I win!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with mirth.

But their merriment was short-lived, as a guard approached, his expression solemn. "Princess Ocean, Lord Thomas has arrived to see you. Please prepare yourself."

Ocean's face fell, her heart sinking. She had no desire to meet with the man her stepmother was forcing upon her. Michael's eyes met hers, and she sensed his disapproval, but he was just a guard – what could he do to stop it?

With a sigh, Ocean departed for her room, her feet heavy with reluctance. She knew she must face Lord Thomas, but she dreaded the encounter with every fiber of her being.

~ ~

King Henry and Lord Thomas sat in the grand throne room, hammering out the details of the betrothal. "By the crown, Lord Thomas," the king declared, "our union will bring prosperity to both our lands! Your kingdom's military prowess and our own wealth will make us a formidable force!"

Lord Thomas nodded in agreement, his eyes gleaming with ambition. "Aye, Your Majesty, our marriage will be a wise move indeed. My soldiers will be at your beck and call, and together we'll conquer any foe that dares stand in our way!"

Just then, Queen Eleanor swept into the room, Ocean in tow. "Ah, Your Majesty," she said with a curtsy, "I've brought Ocean as requested. Let them get acquainted, my lord."

Ocean stepped forward, her gaze demurely cast down, and bobbed a curtsy. "Lord Thomas wishes to make your acquaintance, Ocean," the king said with a wave of his hand. "Be courteous and answer his questions."

Ocean nodded and approached Lord Thomas, her steps graceful. But when he began to query her, she remained stubbornly silent, her eyes fixed on the floor. Lord Thomas's face grew increasingly red with irritation, while Queen Eleanor looked on with a satisfied smirk, thinking her plan was working like clockwork.

Finally, Lord Thomas threw up his hands in disgust. "By the saints, Princess! You're as dull as a block of wood! I've no time for this. I'll return when you're more...enlightened." With that, he stormed out of the court, leaving Ocean looking relieved but also uneasy.