the two of us are just young gods

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    When Henry said that he still had the necklace Anastasia had told him to keep she felt a shot of excitement bloom in her chest. This small thing gave her hope that he still cared about her and that this whole ordeal may not be as horrific as her mind sometimes conjured it may be. Either way Ana knew that their wedding had to happen, to secure the fate of both of their kingdoms. She knew that it genuinely did not matter if they loved each other or not since their whole engagement was arranged in the first place but the queen liked to believe that if they were this whole wedding and their reign together would be a lot more simple. Her warm brown eyes took in the pendant, her lips forming a bright smile. “It is still as beautiful as I remember it.” She had loved this necklace and the memories that came with it when her gaze landed on it and she had been genuinely sad when she dropped it out of the carriage, but she believed that Henry had needed it more than her. Out of three best friends Anastasia had been the one to believe in hope more and she always knew that they would see each other again. Turning around she moved her brown locks out of the way so that he could put the necklace on for her. Once he was finished she turned and they smiled at each other. People began to put in, most not even paying her any mind. She supposed it was because they were all excited about the celebration later tonight, she was as well. Anastasia loved a good party and would never mind spending her night dancing and having fun with her friends. Her gaze broke away from Henry’s for a moment and she turned to see Liam at the stared. He was only there for a moment before he turned and went up. She wanted to reconcile with him as well. She had missed this both and wanted to know how both of them had fathomed without her around to keep them sane. When Henry spoke Anastasia turned and looked at him. Nodding her head she smiled, a soft blush reaching her cheeks. “I am going to hold you to that, Henry. We have a lot to catch up on.” She was sure they both had plenty of stories that they could tell the other about and it would also help build their relationship back up. After Henry left she breathed in a soft sigh of relief. She was simply happy to know that he had not grown to be a pompous jerk. It was reassuring in a way. She was led to her chambers and she pushed past the door to see all of her friends inside waiting for her. They were all gushing about their dresses and how much fun they would be having tonight. All except for Avery. Closing the door she stepped forward with a smile. “Come now, Avery. Why so sad? This is a time to be happy.”







    (c)trexgirl

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    everly katherine devinci//eighteen//lady in waiting & kate elizabeth wellington//nineteen//lady in waiting & avery lola newlin//twenty//lady in waiting


    The girls had brought a multitude of dresses into their queen's chambers to try on. Each one of them was sent all the way from Yaurk, the capital of Lumare, and the girls were all dying to try them on. The city was known for making luxurious gowns much too expensive for most women.

    Everly was placing lip stain on her lips - dabbing it on carefully with her finger. Kate was dipping her pencil into the black eyeliner and then lining her lids. Avery was brushing her pale blonde curls out as she sat before the vanity.

    Everly and Kate when to try on their dresses, but Avery continued to stare at herself in the mirror.

    "I feel so pretty in this dress." Everly said as she spun in her mint green dress. She giggled to herself before adding, "I bet that I will have a marriage proposal the moment I walk into the room."

    Avery glanced toward her friend in the mirror and smiled gently. Everly was the pretty friend out of the ladies. Though she wasn't jealous of her or anything. She wasn't petty in that way.

    "We look stunning." Kate giggled as she twirled in her own light pink dress. Her hair was already done up in a large bun with small pink flowers to decorate it.

    Avery finally stood and dressed herself into her own sky blue dress with flowers embroidered. She let her curls frame her face before looking into the mirror.

    "We do look rather beautiful." She said finally with a small smile and a slight blush. But then she frowned again and averted her gaze.

    "Would you mind doing my hair?" Everly asked as she moved to sit at the vanity.

    Avery nodded and said, "Of course."

    As she was braiding her friend's hair, their queen entered the room. The first thing she noticed was Avery's mood. On one hand she appreciated it, on the other she wished she hadn't of said anything. She didn't want to ruin the mood of the others.

    "Its nothing, Your Grace." Avery was quick to say as she finished with Everly's hair.

    Everly quickly moved to the queen's side and looped her arm in hers. "What a fantastic night we have ahead of us. There will be wine and music and dancing."

    "And Henry." Kate was quick to say with a quirk of her eyebrow. "Do tell us of your husband-to-be. We want to hear everything."

    Avery sat at a distance and listened closely. She was also curious to what Henry Blackburn was like.



    Anastasia could tell that her friend was lying. There was something troubling her but she did not want to admit what it was. The queen could only assume that it had to do with them being here. It was possible that she missed their home, or maybe even she was just worried about what could happen here. It was unlikely that they would never return home so it was understandable that the woman would be worried about not liking it here. Before she could question it any further she felt Everly at her side. A smile adorned her lips and a faint blush appeared on her cheeks at the mention of Henry. They all seemed to want to know about him, even Lily looked up from applying her red lip stain towards the queen with eager green eyes. “Oh well I don’t know for certain yet but so far he’s acting exactly like I remember him to be.” Of course they had only spent a few moments together but so far he was impressing her. Henry was being nice, and was actually interested in reconciling with her instead of pushing her away like Ana had previously feared. Her slender hand reached up and grabbed at her silver necklace. Her thumb ran over it with a sentimental smile and she could hear Lily giggling softly by the vanity. “He’s held on to this necklace this entire time. He had it crafted for me for my birthday the year Anabella sent me away to the nun school.” She could vividly remember her, Liam, Henry, and sometimes Elizabella going out in search for that silver wolf. Of course it had just been an old wives tale and they all knew now that there was no such thing but as children it was their favorite pass time. Lily stood from the vanity. She looked gorgeous in her dress. It was a rich metallic gold color with shimmers that reflected when she moved. It paired nicely with her sun kissed skin and dark hair. Her hair was pulled back into a purposefully messy hairstyle with fake golden flowers added in to pair with her dress. Grabbing Ana’s hand the beauty smiled brightly, pulling her towards the bed. “Well in that case we have to make sure you look your absolute best tonight.” If Henry really was interested in Ana than the queen needed to impress him as well as everyone else tonight st the celebration. First impressions were everything after all. Leading her towards the bed she gestured out towards the array of dresses that had been sent to them. Lily picked up a dark blue dress that she believed would look lovely on her queen. It had tiny white sparkles littering it and reminded the girl of the night sky filled with stars and if she remembered correctly Ana had mentioned before that she and Henry would star gaze together as children. “I think you would look beautiful in this, Ana.” Lily mused, picking up the gorgeous gown and holding it out to her friend.

    Anastasia looked at the gown Lily handed to her. It was beautiful and it was sure to catch many looks as well. Hopefully Henry’s since he’s opinion on her mattered the most. Holding the dress up against her body she turned and looked into her mirror. Lily was right, she would look gorgeous in this dress. “Okay, okay.” The queen giggled, turning her back to Lily so that the woman would be able to untie the strings to the dress she was currently wearing. When it was off Lily helped Ana into the gown she had chosen. Standing in front of the mirror she examined herself. With a bit of makeup and her hair styled she would be the belle of the ball. “What do you three think?” She already knew Lily’s opinion, now she just need Avery’s, Kate’s, and Everly’s.








    (c)trexgirl

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    everly katherine devinci//eighteen//lady in waiting & kate elizabeth wellington//nineteen//lady in waiting & avery lola newlin//twenty//lady in waiting


    Everly, being the hopeless romantic that she was, was quick to come to her queen's side and told her, "I have no doubt that Henry will find you as lovely as ever."

    She giggled as she clutched Anastasia's hand in hers and offered a kind smile. "You may even have your first kiss!"

    Kate bit at her bottom lip as she smiled wistfully; thinking about her first kiss and how it would be. She then shook her head and walked up toward her friend.

    "I love this dress! Though you need some eyeliner and possibly powder for your face and... Your hair! You must do your hair perfectly! It will make the whole entire look!"

    Avery stood carefully from the bed and clasped her hands in front of her - keeping her eyes on the floor. "I could do your hair."

    She sounded shy, as she so often did. Though she was simply trying her best to be respectful. They had come to a dangerous place and needed to be careful, even around one another.

    Kate and Everly began to gush with Lily over their gowns and their hair and the men they would meet. Avery lead Anastasia to the vanity. As she sat, she asked, "How would you like your hair, My Queen?"

    Suddenly, Everly turned around to look around toward everyone. "I say we explore the castle before the celebration."

    Kate squealed in pure joy at the statement, clearly excited by the idea. She looked around at each of the ladies and said, "She's right. I'm sure the castle has changed since we were here last. Who will join us?"

    Avery continued to move her deft fingers through their queen's hair. She always was the best hair stylist out of the group of girls.

    "I will stay here with our queen. You girls go ahead." She spoke softly as she brushed her fingers through Anastasia's big curls.

    As the rest of the girls left the room in a fit of giggles, Avery began to hum as she moved her fingers through Anastasia's reddish brown locks.

    "May the gods have mercy." Avery joked; referring to the giggly girls who were now running about the castle.

    As she continued to move Anastasia's hair this way and that, she noticed her staring at her reflection. It was then that she knew that she was not going to let her get away with hiding her true feelings.

    "Yes, My Queen?" She half-smiled, amused by her friend who, even after so many years, still knew her so well.


    //i'm sorry this is so short. my muse is dying :(//







    Anastasia genuinely appreciates her friends kind words. She suppose nothingcould give a woman more confidence than hearing her closet friends tell her that she looked beautiful. The thought of her first kiss was enough to cause the young queen to giggle softly. She never had her first kiss. As far as she knew none of them had. They had all been taught to believe that your first kiss should be with the man you were going to marry. She didn’t even want to think about making love because her face would turn red. She had always found it a bit weird knowing that members of the royal family had to consummate their marriage in front of people. Her ladies would be there, people from the church, and Henry’s father. The thought was just a bit nerve inducing in a way. Ana knew that it made sense. They had to ensure that a royal lady, especially the queen, lost her virginity and it was what sealed their marriage fully. Anastasia heard Avery speak up and suggest that she could do the queen’s hair. The brunette nodded with a soft smile. Her friend was acting strange and the future bride to be did not like it. She would need to have a chat with her about what was bothering her. Moving to sit down in front of the vanity she laughed softly at her other friends. They were all more excited than she was. Well she figured if you had more free will on who you were going to marry than she would probably be more estatic as well but sadly royals did not have such luxury. Whoever your parents managed to form an alliance with regarding your marriage is who you would be marrying. She didn’t have the option to say no or that she didn’t want to go through with it. Once the other girls were gone Anastasia sent her honey brown gaze on to her friend. When Avery finally caught on Ana sighed softly, worry filling her gaze. “Avery what is troubling you?” The young queen could tell that there was something her friend wasn’t admitting to her and she wanted to find out what it was so that she could ease her worry. “Ever since we’ve got here you’ve been sad and upset and I would like to know why. You refuse to even call me by my name even though we are completely alone.”









    (c)trexgirl

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    avery lola newlin//twenty//lady in waiting


    Avery noticed her queen's frustration, so she bit at her bottom lip. Her dress rustled as she shifted her weight. She was silent for several long moments.

    "I apologize... Ana." She spoke her name like it was a foreign word. "I was only trying to be respectful."

    She continued to braid Madison's dark brown hair - which was as soft as downy feathers. She moved her fingers quickly, as this skill had been practiced so many times that it was second nature to her. She often helped her three younger sisters with their hairstyles when she lived with them. She missed Ariel, Willow, and Susanna with all of her being. She had no idea when she would see them again. Or if she would ever.

    "I am worried for you, Ana. I know that Henry seems sweet, but you must be careful. He is much like his father in the way he treats woman. He will lure you in and make you trust him and then turn away from you and take another woman to bed. Or so I have been told."

    She felt awful for telling her friend this and she hadn't planned to, but she all but forced it out of her. She hated knowing she possibly ruined her friend's mood. She should be excited like the other ladies, but she also needed to be cautious.

    "Finished." She said, stepping away from her. She looked over the finished product with a small smile. She felt proud of her skills. She even added a feather into her hair to add a bit of flare.

    Moving away from her friend, she went over toward the closet. She grabbed the queen's dress and carefully laid it across the foot of her bed. She then moved toward the nightstand and began to rifle through the jewelry box. She rifled through it before finding a hand piece that would go well with her friend's dress.

    Bringing it over to her, she noticed the queen's expression. With a faint sigh, Avery set the hand piece on the vanity and told her, "I did not mean to upset you. I am simply troubled because we have come to a dangerous place. I have heard stories of the ghosts that roam these halls. You never see them, but they see you. It is said they have driven kings to suicide."

    She was quiet for several moments; her gaze elusive and her frown deep. She wasn't sure if her queen was superstitious or not, but one could never be too careful. Though their main concern was Queen Anabella. She was a venomous woman and they would have to watch her every move. Not to mention the palace seer, Mercury, who seemed to be the queen's right hand man.

    "I just want you to be safe." Avery's eyes stung with the threat of tears and her throat closed up. She saw all of her friends as her family, as her sisters, and she couldn't handle losing them.







    Anastasia understood where her friend was coming from. Avery had always been the easily worried in their little group of friends. She was so exposed to the outside world and wanted to know every and everything that happened that she never allowed herself to just enjoy. It was her worst personality trait Ana was afraid. At the blonde’s words about Henry the queen felt her throat tighten up slightly. While she had heard of the rumors herself a large part of her wanted them not to be true. Anastasia just couldn’t see her Henry, that sweet little by who use to star gaze with her in their youth, grow to be a womanizer. However she quickly had to pull herself back to reality. He was no longer that same little boy. They had not seen each other in years. A lot could change in that long amount of time. Still she prayed to god that him bedding multiple women were just rumors. Anastasia was a bit of a romantic at heart and knew that it would break her heart to fall in love with a man who would never completely love her the same way. She let out a soft sigh, trying her hardest to push her thoughts to the back of her head. Ana should at least let him prove himself to her before making a general decision over him. If there was one thing she knew, it was that sooner or later people exposed their true colors. If she saw that Henry was a manipulating man who slept with many women than Ana would know to never open her heart to him. Unlike him she would never have the freedom to seek comfort in the arms of another man but she could at least feel safe knowing that she could protect her heart. At the sight of her finished hair Ana smiled brightly. It was so beautiful. She truly felt as if she would be the belle of the ball. All eyes would be on her after all. The people were excited to see their future queen in person. Mainly because they knew that this alliance would strengthen them, something they desperately needed in this time. “Thank you Avery.” Ana really did love what the woman could do with those skillful fingers of hers. No one else has ever been able to tame her mane of curls into a elegant style like Avery. Even the feather was a simple but nice touch. Standing out of her chair the brunette easily crossed over to her friend. Grabbing Avery's hand into her own, Anastasia smiled tenderly. “Avery. I promise you that nothing is going to happen. As long as we all stick together we will be fine.” She believed that they would all be safe here. Whether the queen liked her or not Anabella could not object to the fact that both of their countries needed this alliance to strengthen them. Her hating her would solve nothing if they were all dead from being attacked at war. Lifting a hand to gently brush a stray tear off of the blonde’s cheek, Ana smiled softly. “Avery, dear. You can not live your entire life in fear. It will do you no good. No we do not know what tomorrow will bring to us so let’s just enjoy this moment and tonight. Let us go downstairs and have the best night of our lives.” All together as friends.









    (c)trexgirl

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    henry branton blackburn//twenty three//heir of Lumare


    After Henry had left Anastasia to prepare for the feast and the celebration, he had passed by his mother in the hall. The queen nodded in greeting before passing him by. Her ladies trailed behind her, but one of them had caught Henry's eye. She offered a bashful smile at his sly grin.

    Not too long after, the woman in question was laying naked in his bed. She was humming in a content manner as her legs tangled in the sheets. Her name was Kira Bayard and she had become Henry's latest conquest. She was much younger than him and less experienced, but she was beautiful to look at. She seemed absolutely smitten with him.

    Henry dressed himself into an outfit that was suitable for the feast. He then styled his black hair so that it wouldn't be as messy. As he did so, Kira stood from the bed and sauntered toward him. She stood behind him and pressed her nude body against his back. Henry stifled a grin.

    "You are very pretty, Kira, but I have a feast to attend. Father will not be happy if I am late."

    He finished with making himself presentable and looked himself over in the mirror. Kira had placed her chin on his shoulder and was smiling at his reflection. She had her arms wrapped around his waist and was kissing his earlobe.

    Henry shook her off and turned to face her. The two grinned at each other and for a moment Henry thought of staying a bit longer. But then he decided that the dinner was more important.

    "Leave after I do and make sure no one sees you." He told her before heading out of the door.

    As he walked through the halls of the castle, he passed by his bastard brother Liam. The male began to walk beside him with purpose.

    "Coming to the feast?" Henry asked him which caused a surprised expression to form on Liam's face.

    "Of course not. Only royals and their attendants allowed. But you already knew that." Liam had a note of playfulness sin his tone. His lanky form began to move quicker which caused Henry have to speed up to stay in step.

    "Where are you in such a hurry to then?" Henry wondered with a quirked brow. He continued to keep pace with his brother.

    "I would like to ride while the weather is still nice and there is still some daylight left. Unlike you, I don't spend most of my time in my chambers."

    "No, you spend most of your time in the library." Henry grinned and it caused Liam to laugh.

    It was then that they parted ways and bid each other farewell.

    As Henry entered the dining room, he realized he wasn't the last one to arrive and let out a silent sigh of relief. His father had always despised tardiness.

    Speaking of his father, he sat at the head of the long table in a lavish outfit and a golden crown atop his head adorned with diamonds and emeralds. To the right of him was his mother. The queen wore a more simple but matching outfit and a small crown decorated with garnets. Her hair was pulled back into a long braid, as it usually was. The seat next to her was empty, as it was meant for his sister. It seemed she was late.

    Near the entrance was the priestess, Alvar, who oversaw any religious matters within the court. Her hair was worn long, almost to her knees, marking her years of devotion to the gods. Upon her death, her hair would be braided and cut. It would then be offered as a sacrifice while somewhere else in the land a novice would enter the temple; her hair shorn and her journey begun.

    Henry bowed and kissed her hand as to bless the food they were about to eat. Her golden ring was cold against his lips.

    As he went to seat himself to the left of his father, he noticed that the seat next to him was empty. Which meant that his bride-to-be had not arrived yet.

    His father was already in the middle of speaking to no one in particular. He more often than not spoke just to hear his own voice.

    "- so I say if they want war, then I will give them war." He slammed his fist on the table which caused the queen to jump.

    Still startled, she told him, "With all do respect, my love, you do not mean that."

    The king mumbled to himself and was beginning to respond when Elizabella entered the room. She wore a frilly pink gown and her hair was pulled back into a thick bun. She hurried to sit next to her mother; averting her gaze from anyone who dared look at her.

    "You're late." The king practically spit the words out which caused his daughter to flinch.

    "My apologies, father. I was caught up in my studies." She kept her head bowed as she spoke. She seemed shy, almost, even around her own family. She was closest to their younger brothers, but they were not allowed at this dinner as they were too young.

    Then the doors opened once more and Anastasia herself entered the room. She looked like a goddess herself, like someone from out of a dream. She moved gracefully into the dining room and Henry watched her every move as she sat beside him.

    "Ah, Queen Anastasia. How nice for you to join us this evening. Your presence truly is a blessing." He smiled in her direction, though the way he smiled looked as if he didn't know how. Yet most woman found it charming.

    "You have come a long way. I do hope that you have found the court to be suitable enough. We do wish for you to feel comfortable in your new home." The king leaned slightly toward her as he awaited her response.

    Henry was eyeing her in what he hoped wasn't too obvious of a manner. His stomach was also rumbling as he was waiting for them to bring out the food.







    Anastasia strode through the halls with a purpose. She was on her way to the dining hall to have a feast with the all of the Lumare royals. It was a customary procedure that she was both looking to and dreading. She had not spoken to any of the royals beside Henry for years. The queen was afraid of making a mistake and ruining their perception of her. After all the king was able to call of their alliance in a heartbeat if he so pleased. Anastasia would like to think that he wouldn’t do so because their arrangement had been standing for so long and they needed an alliance quickly because of the growing threat of war. If he called off their marriage he would need to stress over finding someone else who would be willing to allow their daughter to marry Henry. Anastasia also needed to worry about their marriage. She needed to think about Wrieth first and foremost and what would be best for her country and right now marrying Henry was the best thing. As she strode into the dining hall she noticed all the eyes turn to her. She moved with a certain elegance that only a queen could admit. Ana easily slid into the seat beside Henry, adjusting the bottom of her dress as she sat. Looking towards Earl with her warm brown eyes a kind smile lifted her full pink lips. “Thank you, King Earl. I feel honored to be here.” For him keeping up the alliance for all these years with her mother. She just needed to prevent any reasons for him to doubt that Henry marrying her was a mistake. “Being back so far has been more than welcoming.” So far she had nothing to complain about. Though she had to remind herself that this was only her first day back and that there was still much to be revealed about everyone in this room. Including herself. She glanced over to Henry and..something was off about him. She couldn’t exactly figure out what though. Before long the food became to come out.









    (c)trexgirl

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    henry branton blackburn//twenty three//heir of lumare


    Henry was dreading this dinner. He figured that his father would scare off Anastasia. He hadn't been around much when they were children, so he figured that she didn't remember what a cruel and crass man he was. Though he hoped his father would be on his best behavior, it wasn't very likely.

    As he was lost in thought, the food was brought out by the servants. A large roasted boar was set in the middle of the table surrounded by baked potatoes and brussel sprouts and with an apple in its mouth. They also brought out loaves of bread fresh from the oven.

    His mother raised her goblet of wine and said, "A toast to the king."

    Henry raised his goblet along with everyone else. Then in unison they all said, "Blessed be the king."

    The king grinned before kissing his goblet. Everyone then tilted their heads back and drank. His father gulped down his red wine before letting out a refreshed sigh.

    As they all began to eat their food, Henry was watching Anastasia. He simply couldn't take his eyes off of her radiant face. She was just as he remembered and yet completely different. He wanted to get to know this Anastasia. He wondered if she still collected rare stones or if she still made flower crowns for her friends. He remembered having to wear a crown of daisies that she had made him for an entire day. He never took it off even though he was mocked by many. Anything to see her smile.

    Then his father began to speak. He turned to look toward Elizabella and asked, "How are you doing in your studies?"

    "Doing well, father. My favorite class is music." She smiled toward her father, but it was a slightly sad smile.

    "Ah, of course. You must get that from me." The king was smiling from ear to ear. It was genuine as he did care for his children. He just didn't show it as often as he should.

    "I am proud of you." He said just as a servant was refilling his wine. He took another gulp of his drink before turning toward his wife.

    "And as for Ryland and Layton?"

    "Their tutors tell me that they are exceptional in their studies. You should be proud." The queen said with a curt smile. She then took a small sip of her wine while trying to hide her disdain.

    "I am. You know I am." The king then seemed to dismiss the conversation as he began to stuff his face again.

    So far, his father seemed to be on good behavior. Though it was only a matter of time before he ruined it.

    As they continued to eat, the room was mostly quiet. The only sounds were the clattering of silverware and the consistent chewing. It was quite awkward and made Henry feel unsettled.

    As they all began to finish their plates, the queen wiped at her mouth with a napkin and glanced in Anastasia's direction. "I'm sure you have heard the rumors of our castle being cursed, Anastasia."

    Henry began to grit his teeth as his mother spoke. He knew that she was going to try to get under Anastasia's skin. He was never sure why she had held such hatred for her or their union. He often thought it was because she was younger and prettier and was of actual royal decent. His mother was a slightly distant relative of the royal family of Sorell, but still ridiculously wealthy. Though she had no crown before now and no army to aid her, her money was what kept their country afloat.

    "It must have taken courage for you to come back here so willingly. What with all of suicides within our walls. " She offered a mix of a laugh and a scoff. "No need to worry, though. Most of them had been visitors. And you, my dear, are no visitor. You have lived here before, remember?"

    Henry was offering his mother a warning glare, but she ignored it. Instead she took another sip of her wine before saying, "I would have written letters, you see, but I wasn't sure what to write. You were far too young to understand politics. And I'm sure you had much better things to do, such as playing with the orphans and taking lessons from pilgrims. Though I still worried for you, despite the distance."

    The king was now eyeing his wife with disbelief at her words. Even Elizabella had looked up to offer a puzzled look in her mother's direction.

    "I mean without you, we wouldn't have an alliance with Wreith. Which we need since we have a mutual enemy. Belgonia continues to threaten both our people, and I care for your people as much as mine. As I am sure you feel the same way. We must protect our countries. We have been chosen to do so. It is the wish of our gods." Her smile was tight, as if it took a great amount of force. The way she was speaking almost sounded as if it were rehearsed.

    "I would also feel anguish for my beloved son if he were to lose his bride. He has taken quite a liking to you. You always were his favorite playmate. Do you remember when you all came home with bleeding palms? My poor son still has the scar."

    Henry opened his mouth to retaliate, but his mother continued anyway. Though this time she had looked down to rearrange the food on her plate and speak mostly under her breath.

    "Though King Baron has a daughter around your age. She's quite beautiful and talented. And I'm sure an alliance with Belgonia would be of mutual interest-"

    She was cut off when suddenly the king cut in to say, "Since when were you a diplomat?"

    With a tense smile, she answered, "I am my father's daughter."

    In the blink of an eye, the king had grabbed her wrist and his expression had grown serious. The queen had let out a gasp and her own expression was one of shock.

    "You are my wife. You are not my minister, you are not my chancellor. But my wife." He then let go of her hand and she quickly drew it to her chest.

    As the king went back to eating his food, the room grew quiet again. Henry and Elizabella exchanged a knowing look. He could only hope the king would dismiss them soon.

    The queen looked around toward everyone, but her children averted their gazes. She then slowly placed her hand on top of her husband's. She then whispered to him, "I should like to be your wife in every way."

    Henry could hear it since he sat closest and he understood what his mother meant. His father shared his bed with his mistress while his mother had her own chambers. The king no longer visited his mother's chambers and it was obvious to anyone paying any attention.

    The king held her gaze for a moment before drawing his hand back and jerking his head toward her food. "Eat."

    With a sad expression, the queen went back to staring at her food.

    "Who would like dessert?" The king asked with a bright smile, as if the mood was no longer tense.








    The dinner was going well so far in Anastasia’s opinion. King Earl seemed to like her so far. Ana didn’t really know the man much. He hadn’t been around that often when she, Henry, and Liam were kids and she could only remember seeing him a few times in person but never actually holding a conversation with him. The food was delicious. It always was from what she could remember of it from her child hood. The school she went to had never been on the level of Lumare’s palace cooks but to be fair they did not have nearly as much money as the royal family did. As they ate it was relatively quiet. Almost in a eerie sense as if they all had nothing to talk about with each other. The only thing King Earl asked was of his children was doing well in his studies and Annabella seemed to question if Earl actually cared if his children were doing well or not. It was honestly quite sad. Seems Earl was not that much of a present father in his children’s lives. Of course being king was hard work and often left one busy and stressed but Ana felt as if a father should always spend time with his children. If he spoke to them more he never would have to ask how they were doing. Sadly the peace did not last much longer for Annabella started up a new conversation. The queen looked up from her her nearly finished plate to look at Annabella. Of course she had heard of the rumors. Most people have. It had been almost a horror story to tell children when she was younger. Still the whole idea left a sour taste in her mouth. No one liked the idea of being surrounded by demons and ghosts. The decil’s handiwork. Anastasia sat up straighter the more Annabella spoke. Was she trying to start a scene? To show Earl that she was not mature enough to be queen if she could not withstand a simple conversation? If that was the case than Anastasia would not let it happen. She was more mature than that. Her foot tapped quietly underneath her large dress, the speed licking up ever so slightly but other wise she showed no signs of agitation. She had to remain calm, even if she wanted to set Annabella into her place. To this day Anastasia hadn’t the slightest clue as to why Henry’s mother hated her so much when Anastasia did absolutely nothing wrong. She could never please the woman. It was as if she thought Ana was not good enough to lead Lumare along side Henry which was utterly ridiculous. When Henry’s scar on his palm was mentioned Anastasia unconsciously, rubbed at the one she had on her palm. She could vividly remember that moment, how much it had hurt, and that both Liam and Henry calmed her down after wards. She glanced towards the man beside her for a moment, her heart racing in her chest slightly. However the second Annabella mentioned Henry marring King Baron’s daughter instead, Ana’s warm brown eyes shot to the woman as if she had just said that she found a way to prevent aging. “You could not possibly be serious.” Her hands clenched into fists. How dare she? Suggest an alliance with Belgonia as if she was not seated in front of her. Was Wrieth not good enough for her? Was Anastasia herself not good enough? Belgonia killed her father and was the reason she never knew what it was like to have a father figure in your life. They were the reasons she had been sent to Lumare as a child in the first place and she would dare suggest that Henry marry their country’s princess instead of her? She had never felt so disrespected in her life. Thankfully king Earl stepped in. It may not have been in the nicest way but considering Annabella had not been worried about offending Anastasia the woman could not entirely feel bad for the queen. Despite her whispering Ana could still hear the words that Annabella whispered to Earl. She assumed that it had to do with his mistress. Her heart sank slightly. She truly hoped that this was not her future with Henry. At his offer for desert Anastasia shook her head. As much as she loved sweets she knew that she did not want to stay in this room much longer. “Thank you for the offer but I’ve seem to lost the rest of my appetite.” Now she simply wanted to go to the celebration and to have fun with her friends.









    (c)trexgirl

    tumblr_inline_p7igtijg4a1qlt39u_540.gif

    henry branton blackburn//twenty three//heir of Lumare


    Henry's jaw clenched when Anastasia told the king she had lost her apatite. She was clearly upset and one could only hope it wasn't enough to call off an entire alliance, as that would be exactly what his mother wanted.

    The king watched Anastasia carefully before waving his hand - the rings on his fingers glittering. "Go on then. The rest of us will enjoy the cakes without you. I do hope to see you at the celebration tonight."

    He smiled in a friendly manner, but his tone was threatening. She didn't exactly have a choice as many royals and dignitaries had traveled a long way just to see her. Besides, it was her mother who had created the alliance. Anastasia may have been a queen, but she had yet to have her official coronation.

    "I seem to have lost my apatite as well." Henry said as he tossed his napkin onto the oak table and stood from his chair. He refused to look toward his mother who he knew was glaring at him. "I will escort Anastasia back to her chambers."

    His father twisted the rings on his fingers in thought for a moment before nodding. Henry quickly moved toward the door. Before leaving, he turned and beckoned for his bride to follow him.

    As soon as they were in the hallway, Henry turned a corner until he knew that they were somewhere secluded. He then stopped, but did not turn toward her. His heart had dropped in his chest. He had hoped; stupidly he had hoped. The fury he felt for harboring such a hope made him sway on his feet. He should have known better. He was so worried about his father that he hadn't let his mother cross his mind.

    Finally turned back toward Anastasia, he told her, "I apologize for my mother's behavior. She only has my best interest at heart. Though I know that is no excuse for her saying such things."

    He felt such anger and such anger made him often want to bed a woman. He now wished that he had stayed in bed with Kira. He wondered if she would come back after the celebration.

    Then his gaze fell onto the stairway they stood next to and he thought of something else. He pictured himself and Anastasia running up the stairs - giggling and whispering secrets to each other. He then imagined Liam trailing behind them holding some sort of toy they would play with.

    He was often so jealous of his half brother. If he wanted to do something, he would go out and do it - with his father's blessing. They weren't so worried about him dying that they wouldn't let him live. He would never be king one day, would never inherit the throne. Growing up, he would sometimes imagine what it would be like if they switched places. But then he would remember Anastasia.

    "I understand if you are upset, but the best thing to do is ignore my mother. The more you show her that she has hurt you, the harder she will strike." He spoke with concern lacing his voice. He almost reached for her hand in a reassuring manner, but drew back instead.










    Anastasia gladly left the dining room. She was still angry, and she felt as if she was rightfully so. The queen just never understood Annabella. What on earth could possibly make the woman hate her so much when she had done nothing wrong? The last time she had seen her she had been a small child! How could she hate someone that had been nothing but kind and courtesy with her. The dark haired beauty followed Henry silently, her hands gripped at her dress slightly as she tried to calm her nerves. How was she suppose to deal with that? Constantly being belittled by that woman. It wasn’t like Annabella was old or anything so Anastasia would have to deal with her even after she and Henry became king and queen. As Henry came to a stop Ana stood behind him with a soft frown. At his kind words she simply sighed softly. Of course she realized this. Anyone could see how much Annabella loved her children. Her brown gaze turned towards the stairwell and a soft smile tilted her lips up. She wished that they could back to being children. When everything was so much simpler for them. That would be heavenly. Running around playing with both Henry, and Liam all day. Sometimes they would even try to sneak out of their bed chambers in order to play some more. Most of the time they were caught either trying to escape or the next morning when they were overly tired from sleeping less than normal. Now they both had kingdoms to think of. They had responsibilities and duties that they needed to uphold to and while Anastasia felt blessed to be in her role sometimes she felt the pressure. “I just wish I knew why she hates me so much. I’ve done nothing to her Henry, you know that.” Anastasia had never even spoken to Annabella while she was away.









    (c)trexgirl

    tumblr_inline_p7igtijg4a1qlt39u_540.gif

    henry branton blackburn//twenty three//heir of Lumare


    Henry frowned softly at her words, unsure of how to respond. His brow furrowed as he tried to imagine why his mother must hate Anastasia so much. The thought had crossed his mind, even when they were children. She had constantly chastised Henry for playing with the young queen and his bastard brother. When she had spoken to him, lecturing him on his duties and rank, she almost had fear in her voice. Though of course, being the rebellious child that he was, Henry continued to play with his two best friends. Until one went away and the other grew more distant.

    "I know." He told her while bowing his head in defeat. "I know you have done nothing wrong, but I do not know why she hates you so. Though my mother hates many people. I believe that her children are the only ones she cares for."

    The prince's eyes were filled with worry as he thought of how else his mother would attempt to scare off his fiance. When they were children, Anastasia had only stayed with them for two springs and during the first his mother would tell her stories of the wild ones, or forest dwellers, depending on whichever one chose to call them. They were barbaric people who despised the royals and their splendor. They worshiped the goddess Viorica - the goddess of both light and darkness, both the sun and the moon. She was their great mother, their blessed one, and every full moon they would sacrifice a living creature or an important person to her. His mother used to tell the young queen that little girls, especially royals, were their favorites. She told her that they would sneak into the castle like shadows and whisk her away - hanging her from a tree and letting her blood spill beneath the open sky.

    His mother had given her quite a fright until finally the king found out and did not let her see the young queen without supervision. She had always been so cruel to Anastasia and he hadn't a clue why. He could only wish he had an answer for her.

    "We have little time before the celebration. If you would like to finish preparing yourself, then I suggest now would be the time." He spoke quickly, as he knew that his family would be finished eating soon. "Though I would like to escort you if you would let me."

    He thought again of Kira. He could not get her out of his mind. He decided he would have to bed her again, hopefully after the celebration. He was upset and when he was upset, he called upon whichever mistress he had chosen for the next five days or so. Sometimes they would last a month or two, if they kept his interest.

    Again, he had to stop himself from reaching out to grab her hand. He wished to comfort her, he just wasn't sure how. When they were children, they used to search for stones to collect by the river bank or play chase by the horse stables. He didn't think that would work now.