Thread: In a Kingdom of Unrest [Seraphina X Just Another King]

Clara was truly hoping her father wanted to take their guests out on a hunt in the evening because she wanted to relax for once. Kaden wanted her to remember her promise, that she wouldn't go on any adventures. The comment had made her laugh, he had been so stern in tone, but he'd said it in a quiet voice. When she'd asked him into her chambers, and he had hesitated, but she didn't comment on such hesitancy. She knew it was likely improper for her to invite him past her door, but everyone was otherwise busy. When he refused a seat, she turned and looked at him with a frown. He was standing near the door and looked clearly uncomfortable. Kaden...I need your help...My ladies in waiting will not give me the help I need... She said, her tone growing frustrated. They want me to impress the nobleman I am sure...It would mean they get to travel away from this land.... Clara forced her shoulders back so she didn't show her disappointment. They are also women... She said with an obvious grin. You....are not....Which is why you are valuable in this situation... A small laugh escaped her as she disappeared into the adjoining room where all of her gowns were kept. When she resurfaced she held up two different gowns. One was obviously more like what her father would want her to wear. A deep purple fabric, thick and elegant in style. The neckline was reserved enough to be proper, but the bodice would hug her in a way that curious eyes would appreciate. It was the gown a Princess looking for a suitor should wear, and it was why she didn't want to wear it. She honestly wanted to wear the linen dress she had on, the fabric was light and soft, and it amused her that there were still pieces of hay clinging to the ends of the fabric. The other dress in her hand was much simpler. Of a deep blue hue, the fabric was light and airy, giving Clara the freedom to move unhindered. It wasn't much different from what she was wearing in terms of style. While it wasn't boring , it wasn't flashy like the Lords she'd met in the past like. It was a gown for someone that was interesting in things beyond ballrooms, dancing, and jewels. A dress she could lay in while reading in the library, or sneaking around her father's office to look at political documents she had no business reading. But the best thing about the dress? It would give the impression that while she cared somewhat of her appearance, she didn't care to dress up for their visitors. That they weren't important to her at all. Holding both gowns up for Kaden, she explained her opinion on each and waited for his response. The blue, correct? She asked, her eyes hopeful. You like the blue one, do you not? Clara insisted. She doubted Kaden liked the overdone details of the purple gown. He seemed more down to earth and she assumed he'd be the exact opposite of their guests. Which meant she wanted to dress in something a man like him would enjoy. It didn't occur to her what that might mean. Maybe I will just stay here.. She murmured softly, her arms lowering and the dresses dropping to the floor. But nonetheless...You are free tonight... She told him, offering a small smile if not a sad one. I will either be accompanied by my father and our guests or I will be in the library all evening. There will be no adventuring. I promise you this... Clara assured him. You are free to do something you enjoy tonight instead of chasing me around the city... Clara bent and picked up the blue dress again, knowing it was the one she wanted to wear. But a thought occurred to her. Was she being childish? Running away from the fate she was born with. As a Princess she was raised to be married off in the effort of making alliances. That was her fate. Nothing else. Wasn't she just hurting her father by treating it as a game? The emotions were clear on her face as she stared down at the dress. Meanwhile, The King and his guests had settled in the garden. The King told stories of recent battles won and areas he had improved upon, trying to brag about their lands. He also spoke of his daughter, who he claimed was both smart and respectful. Trying to insist that though she could be willful, she could also be a good bride. Killian and Victor drank their tea and humored the King, letting him ramble on about whatever it was he chose to. They had their own motives to be concerned with and nothing the King said would change that.