Rule of a ruthless king.

"Where is she?" King Edric bellowed at his first guard as he stood proud in front of his throne.

"She's on her way, my king, she was in the gardens when we sent word for her" Matthias answered as he bowed respectfully, trying to stop the king from growing impatient.

The king kissed his teeth in annoyance that she wasn't here the moment he demanded her presence. At that the soft clacking of shoes began to echo through the hall as I finally entered the room. Hurriedly I came up before him and knelt on one knee with my head bowed to the floor.

"You asked to see me, my King?"

"Yes! Next time don't take so long!"

"Forgive me" I pleaded timidly "It won't happen again" I knew better than to make excuses for myself and to test his patience ever more, even if I hadn't arrived late on purpose. After all I practically ran here the moment I heard he wanted to speak with me.

"It better not" he scolded as he stepped closer to me. "It seems after all these years, I finally have some use for you Aurelia, I thought I had been forsaken, being burdened with only a daughter and no male heir, but alas you can be of some useful benefit to me"

I kept my head down, not daring to face him as my knee dug into the cold, hard stone floor.

"You see Aurelia, I have a certain wish, I wish to unite our kingdom with King Aldrich of Ailingdale, his land may be smaller than mine" he boasted "but, he does have a bigger army, and I plan to make him our next ally and eventually he and his men will fight for me and be at my disposal just like the rest of the kings I have in my pocket" he chuckled menacingly

"Yes, my King" I spoke quietly, but I failed to see how this had anything to do with me, it's not like he ever involved me when he tricked the other Kingdoms into his greedy palms.

"Now, King Aldrich has three sons, the lucky bastard, he was blessed unlike me! He has his eldest, that of course will take over as king. Then he has his second born who would be next in line and then lastly... his third born! So, unless both of his brothers die while they're all still young, he will remain just a prince of Ailingdale. So, I have devised a plan! To join our kingdoms, I will tempt the King by offering you in marriage to his youngest, so when I die, he can take over as king and rule as I will teach him to rule, my legacy will live on!"

I gasped "But fath.... My king, I can't be wedded to someone I've never met"

"YOU WHAT?" he shouted over my head as he stepped closer, towering over my curled body. "YOU WILL DO WHAT I TELL YOU! ITS ABOUT TIME YOU MAKE YOURSELF USEFUL.... UNDERSTAND?"

"Yes, my king" I cowered under his hard stare, I could feel his eyes burning on the back of my head.

"So, I thought!" he amused "I will ensure the king takes interest in betrothing his son to you... oh yes! He will agree indeed" he marvelled cockily at his own plan. "Now, get out!" he commanded

I quickly lifted off my knee that was now stiff, kept my head down as I backed away and headed toward the wooden door. I shut it behind me and walked with haste through the cold hallway to my room, not allowing myself to falter until I was alone.

As soon as I reached my room, I hastily shut the door behind me, leaving me in peace to groan and shriek in anger. Just when I think there's nothing more that man can do to anger me, somehow, he still always manages to surprise me. I paced back and forth as I shook my head in disbelief and mumbled angrily to myself.

Suddenly my door creaked open and in walked Maude, my lifelong bedchamber maid. She had been here since I was born and was incredibly close to my mother. When my mother passed away, Maude had been all I had left, the only one who raised and cared for me. I half expected the King to fire her from the Castle after my mother's death, but fortunately she was a hard worker, knew the castle like nobody else and always kept her head down and her mouth shut whenever the king was present.

"Oh, my lady, whatever is the matter, you look absolutely furious... what's happened?" she asked concerned as she set my fresh linen down on the bed.

"That King of ours has decided to marry me to the Prince of Ailingdale, to unite our kingdoms"

"Oh, no, my poor dear, when did you hear of this?"

"Just! I've just come back from speaking with him... or more like him commanding me as always while I just sat like a mouse... I hate him Maude, I hate him!"

"Well now my dear" she approached me calmly as she nudged for me to sit in my wooden rocking chair "for all we know, the prince may be a very kind man!"

I looked at her in cynicism "Really Maude? No doubt he's just as greedy and selfish as my father!"

"Oh, my lady"

"Why? Why do I have to be wedded?... I thought if I just got through these years until that bastard finally met his death, I would finally be queen in my own right and free of him! And now I have to spend the rest of my life at the bottom of the chain again, cowering to some conniving, vicious man, who will just command and order me around, and what's worse I'll be expected to sleep with him and produce offspring!"

Maude knelt beside me and cupped my hand in hers as she looked at me through her dull brown eyes with sympathy

"What am I going to do Maude.... What am I going to do?" I asked feeling so wretched and disheartened for what my future would bring, hoping by some miracle she'd have an answer, but she just squeezed my hand, trying to bring me some form of comfort before she had to leave to dress the rest of the rooms.

I stayed alone in my room for the rest of the day in my own self pity and frustration, until I was called to dine for the evening. I dressed into a tidier gown and made my way to the hall, I could already hear the loud deep laughter of my father and his minions, and the smell of ale and wine wafted through the doors. I entered quietly, hoping I could sit, eat and disappear without any attention being bought to me, the less I have to deal with him the better!

Half of the food had already been torn into as the king and his guards sat around devouring the roasted pig and potatoes. I snagged a few bits for my plate and sat on the far end on the long rectangular table as they took large gulps of their wine and chomped on their food, laughing and chatting away, amongst themselves.

The king suddenly banged his Goblet on the table as he stood to attention, nearly falling as he drunkenly shuffled from foot to foot. "Soon, I will have another kingdom in my grips, his army will be my army and we will invade all the other lands that refused to be my ally! They will regret ever saying no to me! No one says no to King Edric! He roared and his guards cheered in agreement as they all clanged and bashed their goblets repeatedly on the table.

I quickly shoved forkfuls of pig into my mouth and hid a potato in my hand as I discreetly rose from the table and headed for the main doors out of the hall, the last thing I wanted, was to be around the King whilst he become even more intoxicated with his drink and took out his frustrations on me.

Luckily, I got away without being noticed and headed straight for my room as I ate the potato. I dressed into my gown, put out my candle and sighed heavily as I got into bed, dreading tomorrow, and the day after that, and my entire foreseeable future.

I woke up the following morning, got dressed and had breakfast alone in my room, something I frequently did. I much preferred to eat in peace than feeling on edge right under the king's nose.

After combing my long blonde silky hair, I left the castle and made my way through the village, greeting our people as they hobbled about with their busy lives, trying to make ends meet with the very little that they had. I felt guilty every time I saw their ragged clothes and worn shoes, most of them were skinny and malnourished and would spend everyday trading and begging for little food. Only a few people here knew of my place in the castle, they knew that although I was princess of Northlaye, I had no voice when it came to the way our kingdom survived.

heck I didn't have a say when it came to my life let alone the lives of others!

I was just passing through until I reached my favourite villager, Nora. She was big built and brash, but she had to be, she fixed leathers and shoes for her living and hunted her own food in the woods. "Hey Nora" I called as I entered her leathers hut "How is business today?"

"Well, hello there your majesty, today is rather slow unfortunately. But what do I owe for this pleasure?"

"Ohh, Nora! You know I can't go too long being stuck in those walls, I wanted to see you"

She chuckled as she sunk her hot metal poker in a stone basin of cold water. The steam hissed as she clapped her hand down on a unit for me to sit on. "How is the mighty King?" She asked sarcastically

"Oh, as generous as ever... to his own cause" I smirked and Nora's grin widened as we always liked to joke about him.

"What's he up to this time? Raising tax's again? or is he just planning on executing an innocent bystander for his own amusement?" She scoffed

"No, nothing like that... at least not today, he's a little preoccupied with another one of his plans"

"hmm" she murmured as she folded her arms in front of her broadly breasted chest "what's his plan?"

I sighed as I sipped on some hot water "Oh, he wants to unite us with Ailingdale and in order to do that I have to marry the third born prince, so when father dies, he can take over the throne"

"Wow, I'm surprised he'd even have the idea of someone else ruling Northlaye unless it was his own heir"

"Well, he has an heir, but to his disappointment it's a female heir, but us females have no place on the throne, or of ruling over other men, at least that's how he views it. Another man ruling is better than his own female daughter"

"You know, I've got a good idea of where I'd like to shove that red hot poker"

I giggled "Nora!... we'd at least have to sneak up on him while he was alone, so he wouldn't know it was us"

We both laughed in amusement at the idea of getting a little revenge on Edric!

I helped Nora making leathers and fixing tired and holed shoes and just as always when I was here, amongst our people, I felt sane, appreciated and useful. Even though they lived hard lives and I didn't know the hunger they felt every day, I still wished I could be here living with them instead of wandering around the drab and depressing castle every day, feeling like a prisoner to the king. I wished I could escape with Maude and build a life for ourselves, but as much as the king despised me, if I even dared to escape his clutches, he'd surely have my head, without hesitation.

When the sun was starting to glow its evening pink, I knew it was time to head back, before I got into trouble for being gone for so long.

I entered the castle doors when Matthias approached me almost breathlessly "Princess, where have you been? The king has been asking for you, you need to hurry, he's in the dining hall"

"Do you know what he wants?"

He lowered his eyes in sympathy as he motioned for us to hurry "I believe he's put his plan in motion, he sent two of his councilmen and several guards to Ailingdale to speak with King Aldrich"

I nodded as I felt a wave of angst rush over me "Ok, thank you Matthias"

As soon as I stepped foot into the hall, there he was, sat at the table, scoffing his face with the tastiest of foods and wine as his people were most likely to go hungry tonight.

"My king, you wished to speak with me?"

"Yes! Sit... eat!"

I did as he commanded and started to eat as I waited for him to spill his news.

"I have councilmen already on their way to speak with King Aldrich, they will put in a good word for you and convince the prince to accept your hand in marriage, I want to make it perfectly clear... YOU WILL be dutiful and submit to him the moment he arrives, he must know that HE will be king one day and you will rule under him as queen, not the other way round.. do you understand?"

"Yes, my king" I agreed like the timid little mouse I always was when I was around him.

"I will succeed in bringing his army under my command. I will be the king that brought all our lands together. Eventually they ALL will bow to me, whether they want to or not! And you will not ruin it, you will do what your meant to do and that is to keep your foolish mouth shut and let him lead"

I nodded again as I continued to eat as tidily and poised as I could, hoping not to vex him in any way "Yes, My king"

Matthias soon approached him and whispered in his ear, notifying him of something... only then I saw a scantily dressed woman whose face was painted in heavy powder and rouge, with long dark hair and her piercings showing on her navel. The king looked to her in eagerness as he abruptly left the table and escorted her to his bed chambers.

Once he was out of sight, I rolled my eyes at his constant 'lady lovers' the ones that would entertain him all through the night. I wasn't sure if they ever actually wanted to sleep with the king, but either way I felt sorry for them, I could only assume him to be a selfish and cruel lover.

The following morning once I was dressed for the day, I headed to the hall, but through the crack of the door, I could see my father sat there groggily, trying to eat the food laid around him as he swayed in his seat. I quietly stepped back and left before he could notice me, instead I hunted for Maude, knowing that this time in the morning, there was only one place she'd likely be... and that was his chambers.

I walked in to see her mopping the stone floor, the bed sheets were strewn all over the bed barely hanging on and long pieces of rope laid sloppily tied to the wooden bed frames, no doubt part of his dirty sexual acts.

I began to help her clean as we hummed music together, I didn't ever exactly like being in here, but I did like being with Maude and it wasn't as if I had anything better to do with all the time I had to myself... alone.

I helped her dress the bed with fresh linen and readied a hot bath for his majesty. I looked around in dismay at all the fine jewels and ornaments he had placed all around his large room. Everything looked so fancy and expensive, his bed sheets alone were thicker and softer than anything I had ever felt before. He had tapestry on every wall, and rugs covering the once bare floors.

I tested the heat of his bath with my hand and marvelled at how dreamily hot it was. He was the only one in the castle that was allowed his water so hot, he wouldn't allow the servants to heat up water for that long, if it was meant for anyone else, he would consider it a complete waste of their time, which was then an inconvenience to him.

Once we finished in his room I left in haste, not wanting to get in his way once he returned. He knew I sometimes helped clean around the castle, and he never objected to it, as it is, he thought of me as nothing anyway, just the same way he viewed our servants, but I can't imagine he'd be too happy if he caught my hand running through his precious hot bath!

I helped Maude with other cleaning, and assisted the cooks, with the evening meal, then I assured her I'd take care of my own linen and mend my own dresses that were starting to thread at the hem.

I was late arriving to the hall, but as I reached the open doors, I could see the king and his guards practically falling from their seats, some already sprawled on the floor as they drank and spilled their ale all over themselves. Barely dressed women were dancing on the table, whilst others were sat on the guards and the kings' laps, with their bosoms out, pressing against their faces, as they all sang and laughed in drunken joy. One woman suddenly approached the king, sat on his lap, with her legs either side of his hips and began to thrust against him, attempting to arouse him. He grinned lustfully and didn't even attempt to stop her as he loosened her dress and fondled her breasts as he eyed her lustfully.

My stomach churned at the sight, and I turned and ran to the solace of my quiet room, I was hungry... but not hungry enough to eat with all of that going on in there... I'd rather miss any food on offer!

Seven weeks later

I was just about to head out of the castle doors when my father's voice stopped me in my tracks, I turned around, bowed as he approached me sternly

"Aurelia, where do you think you're going?"

"I was just heading out to the woods, my king, to pick some wildflowers, the ones I have in my room have wilted"

"Well, you won't be going anywhere unattended from now on"

I looked to him in confusion, he's never been bothered about me being unsupervised. Just then he nodded over to a young man to join us, he was dressed in the silver guards armor, with a sword tucked at his side. "This is Nathaniel, he will go wherever you go from now on"

"Can I ask why, your majesty?"

He glared at me arrogantly "You think, with the prince likely to show up at any moment, I'll just let you wander off to god knows where and be seen mingling with the village men? I don't want the prince getting the wrong idea, by thinking you have a certain reputation... the way you just flaunt yourself in front of them!"

I wanted to defend myself at his insults. Never have I ever flaunted myself at any man, or ever wanted to. I only ever showed them kindness, a basic human action that my father could never understand! But of course, I didn't rebuff him, I just nodded in submission.

As he turned away, I glanced to the guard then made my way out of the heavy wooden doors, through the village path and towards the woods as the guard casually escorted me, keeping a few yards distance, he kept watch behind me.

I found the quiet, peaceful part of the woods, the place where no animals seemed to visit, and because of that, no one ever frequented here, it was left untredded, with Lavender, yarrow, Columbine and Oxy daisies. The Columbine were my favourite, I loved how the bright purple stood out from the long thick grass.

I set my basket down and started to pick the array of flowers, looking only for the freshest ones. I took my time, basking in the peace and freeness I felt here. No king, no rules, no negativity, just me and the ever-growing colossal trees... well and the new guard who's as still as a statue!

I pressed my nose against the bud of each flower and breathed in heavily to allow the smell of earth and life fill deep into my lungs. I moved from one spot to the next as I noticed a few conkers lying in the grass. I added them to my basket for the village children, they loved to collect them and used them to play games with.

The trees started to sway, causing a slight chill brush through my dress, onto my skin, just then the guard cleared his throat and sauntered closer "princess, it's time we headed back, it's almost time for your evening meal"

I hadn't realised I'd spent half of the day here, goes to who I was in no hurry to go back, and it still wasn't long enough.

I begrudgingly got to my feet and walked past the guard and made my way back home, plodding as slowly as I could.

I knew the king would still be on edge for the prince's arrival, all he'd do is constantly insult me and demand I 'actually made myself more useful and be submissive'.

When we got back to the castle, I turned to the hallway leading to my room, instead of toward the dining hall "Nathaniel, please inform the king I'm very tired, so I'll be going for a lie down instead"

"Yes, princess" he bowed lightly then turned on his heel. I sighed and made for my room, I'll just sneak out later and gather myself some food from the pantry later.

I opened my eyes the next morning to see the sun peeking through my window, I laid still, trying to decide on what reason I had to get out of bed today, when Maude suddenly burst through my bedroom door

"Wake up... oooh wake up my lady, quick!"

I turned around in bed to face her, as she paces around my room, picking out a dress and readying a warm bath.

"Maude, what is it? You look completely flustered"

"Oooh the king is in a mood today!"

"What's new?" I asked sarcastically

"This is no time for jokes, my child, the councilmen have returned, it seems the prince isn't far behind"

"What?" I shot as I sat upright in dismay

"Yes! he's on his way right now, you know what the king will do if you're not ready for his arrival... oooh god only knows what he'll do. Now come on, hop in the water, wash yourself down, then we'll get you dressed and pin your hair!"

I dressed in a dark blue and ivory gown as Maude pinned back some of my curls with one of my mother's blue diamond hair pins. She pinched my cheeks to bring colour to my face.

Grabbing my hand, she practically dragged me through the halls all the way to the throne room. When we got to the door, she kissed me on my cheek and looked at me with worry "please, don't do anything to upset the king when the prince arrives, I just can't bare what he would do you, if you did!"

I looked at her with tenderness as I squeezed her hand "I promise Maude, I'll be on my best behaviour"

"That's my girl" she smiled, then she hesitantly scantered off to continue with her chores. I took a deep breath then willing my feet to move, I joined my father as he paced back and forth in front of his throne, his face scrunched up in irritation.

Matthias then entered the room and hurriedly approached Edric "He's here! he's here now, my king"

Edric nodded then turned to me with a scowl on his face as stomped over to me and started shaking his finger, only inches away from my face. "You will please the prince, you understand? Don't you dare fuck this up for me or you'll be joining your mother!"

I cringed inwardly at his spite, but I smiled sweetly and stood with my posture straight and my chin slightly lifted.

The guards opened the doors and in walked four of the prince's own guards, then walking in from behind them, he strolled in confidently and I gulped at the sight of him.

He was handsome for sure, his dark brown hair was tied at the nape of his neck and his facial hair was neatly trimmed. He was very well dressed, in a thick velvet ream jacket, brown fitted trousers, and his leather boots, with a sword in his sheath. He was dashing, unlike any other man I'd see before... not that I ever really looked.

"Welcome, prince of Ailingdale, we are so fortunate you have come" My father greeted him with arms open wide.

"Thank you, your majesty," he replied as they shook hands. He smiled at Edric, then his eyes flashed to me, and his smile widened. He withdrew his hand from Edric and began to approach me. I felt nerves bubbling in my stomach as his bright blue eyes stayed on me "Are you the lovely princess Aurelia, I've heard so much about?" he asked me directly, but before I could even answer, my father intervened and towered over me

"Yes, this is my only daughter, Aurelia, she's a beauty, is she not?"

"A true beauty indeed" he complimented as his mouth stayed parted and he took hold of my fingers and placed a soft kiss on the back of my hand.

I could only stand there in confusement, of what was happening to my entire body, the goosebumps that covered my skin, from his soft lips. I smiled and bowed my head "It's nice to finally meet you prince of Ailingdale"

"Oh please, my dear, don't be so formal with me, my name is Mallon. May I address you as Aurelia?"

"Of course... Mallon" I beamed, and he kept hold of my hand, our eyes locked on each other, completely forgetting we weren't alone.

Edric abruptly flung his arm over Mallon's shoulder and clasped it with his hand, dragging him away from me as our hands parted "Well, Mallon, you must be starved after your long journey, come, we will discuss a few matters and I'll have the cooks whip us a feast fit for the gods" He chuckled like a typical braggart

Mallon just grinned apprehensively as he looked back to me, then allowed my father to lead him away.

As soon as they left the room, my mouth fell open in shock and I ran to find Maude. I felt so confused and now even more anxious, it was going to be even harder now, being ruled and commanded around like a slave by someone so handsome and charming!

I hurried through the halls until I found Maude in the washing room "Maude, there you are!"

She turned to me in surprise "My lady what are you doing down here, aren't you supposed to be with the prince?"

"Yes, I just met him, but father dragged him away"

"Well, tell me my dear, what's he like?"

I joined her, helping her to dry out the wet cloths "Well, he's incredibly handsome"

"Really?" She gasped

"Yes, and he's so expensively dresses, his kingdom must be wealthy for sure... and he's very charming!"

"Oh, that's wonderful, Oh I'm so pleased, perhaps he's not what you'd thought him to be after all!"

My face fell and I suddenly felt anxious "Oh Maude" I sighed "What if he's only charming to fool me, just to unite our lands? What if he's just like father underneath and its all just a façade!"

She gently placed her arm on mine and looked at me with understanding "I know you're scared my dear, and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't scared for you, but all these doubts aren't going to decide who he is, unfortunately only time will tell and if he is just like your father, then we'll deal with it together, just like we always have done"

I nodded in agreement, trying to find comfort in her words

"Try not to fret my dear, If the king should notice you acting indifferent towards the prince, you know he won't take it lightly, ok?"

"Yes, I know. I'll keep up pretences for the king's sake but...."

"But what, my dear?"

"You... you won't ever leave me, will you?"

She smiled lovingly as she handed me another cloth "Never! And that's a promise. You know sometimes I forget your not my own child"

"Really?" I asked with joy

"Yes, really, I do love you my dear"

"I love you too Maude"

I sat at the table for the feast as Edric and his guards bellowed with laughter, cupping their wine as if it was priceless treasures, Mallon moved from his seat and sat to my right as I quietly sipped on my wine.

"So, are your mealtimes always like this?" He asked in disbelief as he looked around the room, watching the men enjoy the women that surrounded them, dancing on their laps and pouring them more to drink.

"Not always, I suppose it depends on what mood the king is in. Why? Are you not accustomed to these types of dinners at home?"

"Uhh... no! I can't say I have ever witnessed this sort of thing in my father's castle. I thought things like this only happened in the local tavern"

"Oh, and you frequent there, do you?"

He chuckled as he shuffled closer "only on occasion, when friends of mine convince me to go with them"

"I see. Well, we have taverns like that here too, of course being a princess I'm not allowed to ever enter such a place"

"No, anyway a beautiful woman such as yourself doesn't belong in a place like that"

"Well, I'm sure the king will happily show you where the taverns are, and in the meantime your welcome to join them in their entertainment tonight"

"Actually, I think I'll pass, It's not really my thing"

My stomach fluttered at his refusal to lust after the half naked women and I felt myself growing to like him even more, and it scared me, just as it had done before

"MALLON" my father called "COME AND JOIN US, THERE'S PLENTY OF FUN TO GO ROUND" he laughed, and I heard Mallon groan quietly under his breath

"Forgive me, your majesty, but I am incredibly exhausted from the journey, I think I'll retire for the rest of the night, that way I can be ready for the day tomorrow".

Edric nodded "Very well, Mallon, we shall talk more after you have rested".

Mallon nodded and stood up from his seat, he leaned down so his face was mere inches away from mine, "Aurelia"

I jolted at his closeness, the warmth of his breath on my face "Yes, Mallon?"

"You know, your father talked a lot today, but nothing of it was about you. I'd love to spend some time with you tomorrow, just us, if that's ok. I want to know more about you."

I smiled kindly "Of course, we can go for a stroll, that way we can get further acquainted away from the bustle of the castle".

"That sounds perfect" he beamed, and he took my hand and placed another soft kiss "goodnight beautiful Aurelia"

I nodded my head, feeling speechless and slightly giddy. He chuckled, softly took his hand away and left for his room.

I sat still with a million feelings bouncing through my head.

"AURELIA" Edric yelled, and I quickly turned my focus to him "YOU BETTER NOT HAVE ANGERED HIM!"

"No, my king, he just asked to spend some time together tomorrow, I suggested we could go for a stroll".

His face remained stern, but he nodded in acceptance "you better be on your best behaviour!"

"Yes, my king. I will bid you goodnight now, I too am feeling rather tired"

He sucked at his teeth and motioned for me to leave "off with you!" then he turned his attention back to the woman that was pulling seductively at his shirt

I got up and left the hall before he decided he had more demands of me. I laid in bed staring at the ceiling with thoughts of the prince. Who was he really? And why so far has he been kind and charming? Perhaps tomorrow I'll know more of what he's really like. I scorned my feelings to stay hidden, I can't fall for someone that turns out to be a tyrant. I can't fall for someone that turns out to be just like my father.

The following morning after Mallon and I had finished our morning meal with the King, we set off on a footpath in the woods for some time to get further acquainted. We passed the pond that homed several beautiful swans and I led him down a trail next to the sparkling, flowing river.

"It is beautiful down here" he marvelled as we both took in the peaceful scenery

"These woods are my favourite place in the whole kingdom, I love how quiet it is here, away from everything and hardly anyone ever comes this way"

"Then how did you come to find it?"

I smiled in thought, reminiscing on happier days "My mother and Maude used to bring me here when I was little, we'd paddle our feet in the water and pick flowers"

He smiled warmly at me as he picked white blossom from a tree and handed it to me "You have fond memories of your mother?"

"Yes, many! She spent every waking day with me, and tucked me into bed every night"

"How old were you when she passed away?"

"I was eleven, one day she became really unwell, I sat with her every day, until one night she went to sleep and didn't wake up"

"Aurelia, I am sorry... you must miss her terribly!"

"I do" I nodded "I was very much like her and not like my father, Maude always tells me how much I look like her. It's hard when the one person that could understand you more than anyone else, isn't there to guide you and help you"

"But you and your father... are you close?"

I scoffed "No, not at all... were very different"

"In what ways?"

"Well, for a start I'm a woman"

"Right! But I fail to see how that could cause you to not be close, you're his daughter after all"

I looked at him in puzzlement "Umm, well, he's a king! And I'm not a male heir"

"But you're an heir nonetheless!"

Again, I felt confused over his lack to see the point I was trying to make "But kings only want male heirs, don't they? And because of that, we have a very difficult relationship"

"Wait!" he stopped in his tracks as he turned to face me "Are you telling me, you don't have a relationship with your father because you're a woman and not a man?"

"That's right... I can only assume our relationship would be completely different, if I was the son he always hoped for"

He shook his head in disbelief "Aurelia, you're his daughter, his heir, it shouldn't matter whether you are male or female"

"Umm, forgive me Mallon, but where did you learn that? All kings wish for sons at least as a firstborn"

"NO, Aurelia, not all kings!"

I turned away and kept walking down the footpath as he followed beside me "But, my father always said a male heir is needed to run a kingdom properly, as a female, I'm pretty useless"

"Your father told you this?"

I nodded "mmmhmm"

He blew out a sigh "Wow, forgive me Aurelia, but that was never what I was taught"

"But your father has all son's, he has no cause to be disappointed"

He raised his brow as he clasped his hands together behind his back "Well, that's not entirely true... before my first brother was born, my mother conceived a daughter"

My eyes shot to him as I listened intently

"One year later, my eldest brother Darius was born, then another year later, my brother William followed, then two years later I was born. When my sister turned six, she got sick with a fever, four days later, she died"

"Oh" I sighed heavily as I looked at him with sympathy "Mallon, I had no idea, my father only mentioned you and your brothers"

"It's ok, most people have forgotten her, but both me and my family never have. My father and mother were beside themselves with grief, they mourned her for so long... we all did!... you see my father didn't think of her as a useless female, he saw her as the future queen. He had high hopes for her. She was witty, excited all time, but she still knew how to keep herself graceful in front of others, my father had even started teaching her how to use a sword, they would practice together all of the time"

"Wow, sounds like he was very devoted to her"

I felt a wave of emotion at the pit of my stomach and my heart began to sink... so its not all kings and princesses. It's just my father and me!

"Forgive me again Aurelia, I didn't mean to upset you, I just don't agree with what your father says, the way you clearly view yourself as little importance to your own kingdom and your people"

I felt confused, if what Mallon is telling me is true, then why does my father despise me so much? Is it because I remind him of mother so much? It's not as if he ever speaks kindly of her, maybe my likeness to her is what he really hates.

"For what it's worth, I love my people, whether I'm queen one day by my own right or not, I'll always care for them"

"Yes, I can see a kindness in you already... I saw it when I first met you"

"Really?" I smiled giddily

"Really!... you know, I'd love to see the village one day, perhaps you could show me around?"

"Of course, although we better head back now, I know the king wants to see you today!"

"Yes, this morning he informed me, he wishes for me to join him and his guards in a spot of hunting... apparently you have a lot of deer!"

"Yes, many! But they hear even the tiniest of noises, so they're not so easy to catch".

He chuckled as we made our way back toward the castle, the king was already waiting for him at the steps, his intimidating broad shoulders rising with each breath he took. He smiled kindly at the prince and asked him to wait while he quickly excused himself, then glaring at me to follow.

Just inside the castle doors, out of sight he grabbed my arm roughly as he shoved me against the wall. "Tell me, what was said?" he demanded angrily

"Noth... nothing my king, he talked about his family!"

"His family? I don't give a shit about his family! Tell me why he hasn't proposed yet?"

"He... he only arrived yesterday, my king, maybe he needs time to settle, I... I just think he wants time to get to know me and... and you!"

He squeezed my arm tighter as I felt his fingers digging into my skin "I gave you one thing to do Aurelia... you better see to it that he does agree! You do not want to become completely useless to me!"

I nodded anxiously "Yes, my king!"

"MY KING" A voice called from behind Edric

He turned his gaze, and past him I could see Maude staring at him "The horses are ready for your hunt, you may all leave now!"



"Good!" he replied, he turned to me and gave me one last glare, before releasing his grip and heading out of the doors.

I sunk against the wall as Maude ran over to steady me. When she heard them, all leave on the horses, she took me back to my room and bathed the bruises Edric had left printed on my pale forearm.

I ate my evening meal, alone in my room. Edric had told Maude that I wasn't to join them in the hall tonight This evening was only for him, Mallon and the other men that went hunting with them today, he wanted to celebrate their lucky catch of two deer and a fox, but I knew it was only to give him chance to mould Prince Mallon into the future King of Northlaye, the kind of king, Edric wanted him to be.

The next morning, I awoke, stretched out as I thought about the day ahead. Before I went to sleep last night, Maude told me she overheard the king planning the day with Mallon, all the things he wanted to do and discuss with the young prince.

I made my way down to the kitchen and chuckled in my head at how ridiculous my father was. He was so eager for Mallon to agree to wed me and yet he won't give us any time to spend together! He must think himself such a favourable man, that only he alone can persuade Mallon to marry me, of course in his dim brain the thought of me and Mallon getting to know one another and forming our own feelings wasn't important, that's not the way it needs to happen!

I approached Maude and started to slice the fresh bread as she scattered around the kitchen, helping the cooks to ready the food for our midday meal. She sighed as she slumped bits of fruit onto a wooden board.

"What is it, Maude?" I asked curiously

"Oh, we have hardly any good fruits left for the evening meal, it's barely enough for two people, so now I'm going to have to gather more, on top of everything else I have to do today!"

"Maude!" I chuckled as I lay a hand on her shoulder "No need to worry, You stay here, and I'll gather more fruits"

"Are you sure?"

"Of course!"

"Oh, thank you, my dear" She breathed out in relief as her shoulders relaxed.

I grabbed a basket and headed down the halls and to the main doors.

"Princess, may I ask where you're going?" Nathaniel spoke out as he stood guard at the door.

I sighed "I'm gathering some fruit... that is all"

"Princess, you know the king's rules, I can't let you go unsupervised, I'll escort you"

I rolled my eyes and let him follow close behind, it didn't take long until we reached the woods and I found bushes and trees with plenty of healthy grown blackberries, raspberries and apples.

I snagged a few more berries and ate them one by one as I strolled to find what else I could take home. I spotted some mint leaves and as I bent forwards to pick some, several apples rolled out from my basket and bounced on the floor. Just as I started to pick them up a hand came into my view as it grabbed an apple. I stood up to see who was suddenly close to me. I was surprised to see it was Nathaniel and he gathered the rest of them and placed them back in my basket.

"Thank you" I said appreciatively and somewhat stunned

"It's no problem at all, princess"

I smiled and turned back to the minted leaves, just as I picked some, I glanced at Nathaniel, now he was closer I had just realised he looked relatively young.

"How old are you, Nathaniel?"

"I'm twenty, your highness"

"Hmm, you do look young... I didn't notice until now!"

"Thank you, I'll take that as a compliment"

"Good" I grinned "I meant it as one"

He smiled and stepped a few paces here and there as he kept watch around us.

"Is this what you imagined, when you trained to be a guard?"

"Is what, your highness?"

"Having to follow me around, like I'm a child and you're my nursemaid!" I scoffed

"Well, you are the king's daughter, you're a princess to the people, I'd happily guard your life and keep you safe, as long as the king wishes for me to".

His answer took me by surprise, and I held out a small bramble of berries for him to take "here you may as well eat too while you're waiting!"

"Thank you, princess" He bowed lightly and begun to eat one.

After a few moments of silence as I gathered more mint, he spoke up again "You come out here a lot... don't you?"

"Yes, I love it here, don't you think it's nice to escape out here from the castle sometimes?"

He shook his head immediately "I enjoy being at the castle, it's a reminder of my sworn duty"

"Ok" I chuckled "No one else it out here, or can hear you, you don't have to be so serious!"

He chuckled and for the first time I actually liked one of the guards we had. His smile was warm, and his teeth were pearly white, unlike the rest of them who's teeth were stained brown and dark yellow from all the wine and ale they drank.

I was just about to speak again when a rumble echoed from the sky, we both looked up to see dark clouds were looming over us.

"Princess, I'm afraid it's time to..."

"Head back!" I interrupted him with a smile "It's ok, I better get these to Maude anyway"

"Well, at least this time you seem a bit happier to return" he commented as we started to walk back through the woods

"Well, last time I didn't know you could talk!" I joked playfully and he grinned

"You know, I've never seen you at one of the king's feasts with the rest of his guards"

"Well, I'm still too lowly to be invited, the rest of his guards he... well he..."

"Favours?" I finished his sentence, his face remained motionless, but I knew he agreed by the look in his eyes. "So, tell me, would you want to be one of the king's close guards, to have that position of working next to him every day?"

"Well, if he gave me that position, I could hardly turn it down, he would think it disrespectful"

"Hmm, that's not what I asked... you might feel you have to, but is that what you eventually want?"

He stayed silent, while he mulled over his answer, and I could sense his hesitation and I laughed "Nathaniel, don't worry, your answer is safe with me... I'm not exactly one that runs to the king and tell him everything people feel and say when he's not present"

He nodded in understanding "Ok...then no, I wouldn't want to, I never have. I do enjoy being part of protecting the castle and everyone in it, but I wouldn't want the role that his closest guards have"

"Wow, I think you're the first one to say that... and perhaps even think it. Can I ask why? Most men here would jump at the chance!"

"I know, but I've seen how drunk they all get most nights, I see them stumbling through the hallways or on their way home to their own families, they can barely stand, they're like that more often than not".

I smiled in agreement, I had learned years ago to make sure I was hidden away in my room whilst they all dosed themselves with any drink the king had offered on the table. It would make me feel sick to see them in such a way. They weren't as scary as the king was when he was intoxicated, but I still knew to stay safely out of the way. When I was younger, Maude would always tell me, men couldn't be trusted when they were in that state. She would spend so many nights sleeping in my room with me, in fear that one of them would enter and not think twice about having their way with me and even though it was against our law, she was doubtful that the king would show any kind of punishment to any of his favourite guards, so she took it upon herself to keep me safe.

I took the basket to the kitchen then headed to my room to change, me and Nathaniel got caught in some of the rain and now the hem of my dress was wet and dirty, if the king saw me trapsing around like that with the prince here, he'd be furious!

I sat ready at the table when the king, his guards and Mallon entered the hall. Mallon smiled as soon as his eyes fell on me and quickened his pace as he approached. He was just about to take a seat opposite me, but just before he could sit, the king put his arm around Mallon's shoulder and lead him to the head of the table "You'll sit next to me, young prince, I doubt Aurelia has much to say of any importance" he chuckled deeply as he poured wine for himself and for Mallon.

Mallon looked to me, and I saw a glint of annoyance and flashed me a deprecatory smile.

I smiled back in reassurance, even though I felt so small and insignificant sitting at one end of the long table all on my own.

"Princess, why don't you move up closer and sit with the rest of us?" Matthias suggested with a sympathetic smile, but Edric loudly cleared his throat displeased at Matthias. He took one look at the king and knew he'd made a mistake "Maybe next time" he quickly checked himself as the king motioned for him to sit, with a glare, daring Matthias not to speak another word to me. I ate little food, then decided tonight, it was best to stay out of my father's way and I already felt humiliated in front of the prince.

I bid them all a goodnight and retreated back to my room feeling aggravated by my father's constant belittling.

xxxxx

"Wake up, my dear" Maude whispered sweetly as I fluttered open my eyes to see the sky was grey today, there was no sun, no pretty glow r its warmth to greet me.

I slowly sat up, feeling dejected and fed up as, Maude placed my breakfast of cheeses, raisins and nuts in front of me. I picked at the food as she brushed off a fresh dress for today.

"I can do that Maude" I told her as she kept brushing vigorously

"It's ok, my dear, you eat up, the king demanded I be here first thing, apparently the prince was adamant to spend some time with you today... the king seemed rather displeased"

"Well, of course he was! He wants Mallon with him every day, so he'll become his little puppet"

"Oh you!" Maude chuckled as she begun picking out some pins for my hair.

I got dressed and let Maude comb and pin my hair, then opening my drawer in my little dresser she took out one of my mother's hair decorations and clasped it at the back of my hair.

"Now off you go, my child, and remember, be on your best behaviour" Maude urged me once I was ready to go.

"Thank you, Maude," I left the room and wandered through the castle, looking for Mallon. He wasn't in the dining hall, the throne room or entrance hall, and I daren't go to the west wing of the castle, where my father's rooms and study was.

I was just about to give up when I saw him walking down the long stone corridor that led from my father's study.

"Prince Mallon, good morning"

"Prince Mallon? I think I preferred it when you just called me Mallon... I've been waiting for you"

"You have? Well, I was just having a little walk about, I'm surprised you didn't spot me" I remarked, I felt a little curious as to why first thing in the morning Mallon was already with my father in his study.

"Well, I'm glad I've found you now, why don't you show me around your home a little more?"

"I thought the king already did that when you first arrived?"

"Uhh, no, all he's shown mw so far is a few rooms that are of importance to him, but I feel there's still so much to see. Where do you tend to go when your home?"

We headed down a corridor as we passed empty rooms and ones with dusty unused furniture.

"Why does it look like no one comes down here?" he asked in puzzlement

"Because no one comes down here anymore, at least no one apart from me"

We reached a wide open corridor that led us to a large room with old brass candelabras that were covered in cobwebs, old wooden carved chairs, a rug that covered most of the stone floor, now too old and dusty to see the pretty print it once held but the large glass decorated windows let in an abundance of light as it bounced along the walls.

"With a little clean up, I can imagine this room would be stunning" he stated thoughtfully as he looked around the room

I pondered around the room in deep thought "Hmm, it was once!"

"Once?"

"Yes, I used to play in here all the time with my mother... look" I pointed to a large portrait that hung on the wall, it was the only item in here that was free from dust, I came in here often to make sure her face was still visible so I could remember her.

"Wow, is that your mother?"

"Yes, she was a beauty"

"Now I know, where you get your beauty from, you look just like her"

"That's what everyone always used to say... we would sit in here together and play dress up, she would let me wear her jewels and she would do my hair for me and then she would sing, and we would dance, and she would always tell me that one day I'd be a perfect queen, and I always hoped that I would be, just like her"

"She sounds wonderful Aurelia, you both were really close?"

I nodded sadly "Yes, she was everything to me, my father barely ever spoke to me when I was a child, so I think she felt she had to compensate for that, but she was truly wonderful... she had the kindest heart"

"Were they in love... your mother and father?"

I shrugged defeatedly "I really don't know... he never showed her any affection when I was present, but she always smiled nonetheless"

"Aurelia?" he looked from my mother's portrait to me with sorrow in his eyes

"Yes?"

"Your father... does he... has he ever hurt you?"

I hesitated, Edric hasn't ever harmed me too much apart from the odd moment here and there, it was just his words that stung more... his evident disappointment for me. I didn't know where the prince stood when it came to Edric, and I feared I might not be able to trust him with too much of what was locked away in my heart.

"No... not at all" I lied

He nodded but his face shown that he wasn't too convinced "Good, because you need to know, you don't deserve any treatment of that kind! Its just... sometimes the way he speaks to you and whenever I'm with him he speaks nothing of you or your mother"

"That's just his way I guess, but one day I hope to restore this room to its former glory" I looked to him, to see him already focused on me with a faint sad smile.

"Well, this is one place I tend to visit but how about I show you the rest of the castle... I can introduce you to everyone, I tend to spend some of my time with our servants"

"Really? Yes, lead the way, princess" he grinned playfully

I walked past him with a sweet smile "Right this way, prince!"

I took him down to the kitchens and the servant's quarters and introduced him to everyone we passed. I have to admit I was rather surprised to see him converse with them so easily and respectfully. He didn't look down at them like they were beneath him or seem indifferent to them, he was friendly and warm with them all and they were ecstatic to be spoken to by a prince.

We made our way back through the main corridors as we talked more about the castle and memories, I had of growing up when Maude appeared from around the corner and hurriedly approached us "Oh your majesties, there you are"

"Everything ok Maude?"

"The king has decided to hold a celebration tonight, there will be a feast, wine and music, he's requested that you both join him the moment your dressed in the appropriate attire, you can then make your way to the main hall"

"What are we celebrating?" I asked unsurprisingly

"Oh, it's just a belated celebration in honour of the prince's arrival, there will be nobleman, of course the kings head guards and some of their wives"

"Your majesty" Maude turned her gaze to Mallon "Would you like me to escort you back to your bedchambers?"

"No need, but thank you, I remember the way, I don't want to hold you up" he smiled, he turned to me, took my hand and placed a gentle kiss "I'll see you soon, beautiful Aurelia"

I bowed my head lightly in thanks then he left down the corridor. Maude quickly rushed me into my room and began undoing my dress "Quick, my lady we can't make the king wait" I could see the worry on her face, so I shimmied out of my dress and quickly picked a tidier more formal gown. It was silver with a white lace trim that led down the bodice and cascaded down to the floor.

I brushed through my hair and added a small, jewelled tiara, one that my mother gifted me when I was too young to wear it.

"Perfect" Maude marvelled as she took me in "You look absolutely perfect" she squealed