NationStates Jolt Archive

The interviews were finally over and High Queen Marissa had to make two of the only decisions about her household staff which she would have to make personally: the Her Most Esteemed High Majesty's Mistress of the Robes and the Captain of the Queen's Guard. All the women who had been presented to her for either office were rather well qualified.

The applicants to be her Mistress of the Robes were all duchesses, either in their own right or through marriage to a duke serving His Majesty in Tarana itself.Fourteen such women had been shown to her.

Her Grace, Rachael Caddow, Duchess of Capel, was a prim and proper young lady. Her manners were impeccable and yet it seemed unlikely that she would ever allow herself any more informal rule of behavior. She would perform her duties perfectly and engage in measured, polite discourse, but nothing more could fairly be expected.

Her Grace, Tecla Capodistria, Duchess of Taliadoros, was the best educated woman out of all the candidates. While the others had been gossiping and moving through the circles of court, Tecla had been pursuing her love of wisdom. She was thoroughly educated in philosophy and literature, modern and classical.

Her Grace, Aaltruide Cadmus, Duchess of Arnulf, was a courtier through and through. She was a charming and exceptionally beautiful young woman, just recently come into her title. She was one of the few applicants younger than the queen. Aaltruide,if picked, would certainly be favored by the lords of the court. The only danger might be her being favored too much.

Her Grace, Ciannait Teall, Duchess of Caird, was an extremely shy young woman. She was demure and reserved throughout her interview. She seemed to admire the Queen the most out of all the possible choices, but she also seemed a little more nervous than one might wish for such a ranking lady.

Her Grace, Macha Waddell, Duchess of Gaff, was the most outspoken of all those examined. Macha had recently run for her locak seat in Parliament as a member of the Emancipation Party, the small feminist party which had thus far not obtained even one seat in Parliament. She was also known as a strong contributor to charity, having endowed a number of charitable organizations from her family fortune.

Her Grace, Anita Mò hlbacher, Duchess of Maria, was an accomplished and sophisticated conversationalist, known for her tact and diplomacy. She was an expert in allowing the conversation to orient around the other person without seeming to be humoring them in any way and she was in the habit of researching any company she might be made aware of beforehand so as to intelligently discuss that persons interests.

Her Grace, Natalia Cabrini, Duchess of Candiano, was an accomplished musician, knowing how to sing and play the piano excellently. She was known to be a passionate and committed friend and was arguably the best choice if Marissa was desirous a confidante for this office.

Her Grace, Damaris Yanez, Duchess of Charles, was a devoutly religious young woman whose chastity and piety were the source of much praise for herself and her family. She came with the highest recommendation of Marissa's sister-in-law, Grand Duchess Gwendolyn.

Her Grace, Adélaïde Cabal, Duchess of Carloman, was married to one of the High King's courtiers. She was known around the court as a devoted wife who sometimes verged on the fawning but also as a woman who was open to friendships with other ladies.

Her Grace, Catrin Caddick, Duchess of Cadwallon, was a great patron of the arts, especially of the theatre. She was recommended to the Queen as an excellent companion for attending plays, operas, and even films. She was also known to be highly favored by the Queen's sister-in-law, Grand Duchess Morgan.

Her Grace, Ragnhild Cananis, Duchess of Conrad, was a serious young woman of sober disposition. She seemed to have an air of gravitas about her at nearly all times. She certainly had one throughout her interview with the queen. She would certainly do well at upholding the dignity of the office but Marissa might not have found her desirable company.

Her Grace, Abreishae' Cake, Duchess of A'court, stood out visibly among the other candidates, all the rest of whom were white. The young African-Danaan noblewoman from Wintermore was a good student and a lively conversationalist. She had a record of being active with the Liberal Party in her area.

Her Grace, Kordelja Kaldowski, Duchess of Kupala, was an energetic and extremely talkative woman, marked off by her extremely short stature. She was very pretty and easy-going and seemed perpetually curious about those around her, showing a most genuine interest in other people.

Her Grace, Hanneli Gygax, Duchess of Geiger, was an intellectual young woman, interested primarily in history. She had an almost encyclopedic knowledge of her country's past and thus offerred a useful potential resource to the High Queen, namely her ability to provide for the queen the historical knowledge about the Resurgent Dream which he subjects took for granted.

For Captain of the Queen's Guard, there were only ten candidates, all young, fit officers of the Royal Guard with several years experience under their belts.

Colonel Efra Camona was a dusky skinned woman of exceptionally trim build. She was considered an expert at stealth and camouflage. In the past, she had normally been assigned to guard dignitaties and high officials passing through potentially hostile territory.

Colonel Nabeela Mahfouz was a lithe, young officer with substantial knowledge of martial arts. A frequent champion in the Academy gymnastics competitions, Mahfouz was well known for her expert control over her own body. Even unarmed, she was a deadly weapon.

Colonel Taitu Ingidayehu was an athletic, strong woman and the best conventional soldier of all the candidates. For all that, her expression was generally relaxed and sociable and she seemed to be at graceful ease.

Colonel Madhavi Jafferbhoy was a more intellectual candidate, specializing in tactics and profiling. Her talents lay less in protecting the Queen from an attack than in preventing any assailant from having an opportunity to get near the Queen. Of course, she was certainly competent in a firefight. It was merely not her specialty.

Colonel Saba Habibi was among the most energetic candidates, seeming to never tire. The young officer could go the longest without sleep of any of the candidates and was also one of the best with human relations, an important part of the job.

Colonel Ai Chiba was another of the more intelligent possible choices. She was also a transfer officer who began her career as a Marine Officer, in which capacity she saw several months of active service in Marlund.

Colonel Diet Giap was a small woman reported to have excellent dexterity. She was one of the fastest and most manueverable of all the candidates.

Colonel Ma Ah-ch'ou was a touch, athletic woman, known to be very protective and sometimes tempermental.

Colonel Adi Babitu was a very tall woman with a friendly demeanor and a reputation for being a very fast runner.

Colonel Elama Vinchevsky had the most intimidating record as a formal special operative who had routinely served on dangerous and rather covert missions. However, she seemed pleasant enough during the actual interview.

High Queen Marissa sat in front of a large table. Spread out in front of her were notes and pictures of the various candidates for the roles that she had to fill in her staff. Having sat through and personally interviewed each, she now had the daunting task of finding the right person to fill each spot. And she did not want to get it wrong, so it was with careful deliberation that she finally narrowed down the search to the successful candidates.

She had begun by focusing on the Mistress of the Robes, which to her was the more personal of the two places that she had to fill. She read through the notes that had been made during the interviews and recalled as she did the way that each of the ladies had behaved in her company. Although each of the Duchesses had their qualities, one in particular had stood out above the others, one that Marissa believed she could deal with on a one to one basis.

So it was, that a while later the notes on Her Grace, Natalia Cabrini, Duchess of Candiano were placed in the successful spot, with a note to address the woman about the position.

The choice of Captain of the Queen's Guard was a slightly more difficult task, as Marissa, despite her position in Tartarus, had never had to concern herself with such things. Back in the Empire, her protection had been arranged by those higher up the succession. So it was with very careful consideration that she worked her way through the dossiers of the applicants.

Some time later, a lot more than it took to find her Mistress of the Robes, Marissa held the folder belonging to Colonel Madhavi Jafferbhoy. The woman had qualities that seemed to make her stand out from the crowd, and to Marissa prevention had always been preferable to cure.

Having finished the task, Marissa sat back in her seat, sipping a glass of water, while she gazed down at the two successful candidates now, sure that she had made the best decision for her.

The rear door of the High Queen's study, leading to the Royal Apartments, opened silently and a figure moved quietly into the room, walking over to stand unannounced directly behind the desk and lay a potentially surprising hand on her shoulder. Owain smiled down at his wife, gently cupping her cheek in his hand in a gesture extremely unusual for the reserved monarch, even in private. "Is this the face that launched a thousand ships and burnt the topless towers of Illium?"

Smiling lightly, he pulled back and resume his normal reserved expression. "Have you made your decision, Your Majesty? I've made arrangements for us to leave on our planned tour of all twenty-five principalities at the end of this week. I was certainly hoping that your full retinue would be prepared to accompany us." He turned his gaze down towards the two folders she still had out on her desk, reading the names inscribed upon them with a very faint upturn of his lips. "It is always odd for me to travel to the Atlantic Territories. It's always winter up there when it's summer down here."

Marissa let out a small gasp of surprise as Owain laid his hand on her shoulder, and smiled as his voice reached her ears. She met his gaze with her eyes, as she rose from the chair to stand before him. “I have, Your Majesty.” She laughed lightly, as she continued. “Your timing is impeccable as usual, as I have just finished.” Turning back to the table, she picked up the two folders that she had placed away from the others. “I believe that these two, Her Grace, Natalia Cabrini, Duchess of Candiano and Colonel Madhavi Jafferbhoy, would fit the roles for me.”

She cradled the folders against her body, as she took a step towards her husband. “It will be so nice to accompany you, to see my home.” She once more found his eyes. “Even if the idea does seem a little daunting. But I know that it will be perfect with you there to guide me.” Unlike Owain, Marissa was not reserved, and it was with a smile that she moved over to him and pressed a brief kiss to his cheek, before she reached out and took his hand. “If we are leaving at the end of the week, I really need to arrange my wardrobe, and make certain that I am properly attired. I would hate to freeze on my first visit to the Atlantic Territories.”

Owain nodded as he listened to his wife's selection. "Excellent choices. Her Grace is most accomplished woman and I knew the colonels father. If the daughter takes after him at all, she will be a most exemplary officer."

He took his wife's hand and smiled faintly at her kiss on the cheek. "I don't think I would want you to freeze either. We're not going to the Atlantic Territories first, however. We're starting with Shieldcrest. It will be nice to see how Their Highnesses are settling in."

The king looked off thoughtfully for a moment before looking back at his wife. "I suppose your selection leaves Cadwallon free to go with my sister to Pantocratoria. I am sure she will appreciate that a great deal. It can be..." He paused again. "I know that it can be hard leaving everything you've known. I know that Tarana with its 437 churches, impertinent newspapers, and all of that must seem very different from your parents' home and, if it is, I won't take it as any kind of affront if you wanted to talk about it."

Marissa frowned a little at the mention of her home. Of course, she missed her family, but she had chosen to marry and move away, and did not regret her decision. “I miss home sometimes, but there are more important things here.” She smiled. “I do have moments when I look at things and it reminds me of places at home, and there are others that remind me of home due to the difference. I do not regret being here with you and I would not change a single thing. I’ve never been as happy as I am now, here with you.”

She looked down at the folders in her hands. “And I’m pleased that my choices have had a beneficial effect on Morgan. I want her to be as happy as I am.” She once more felt her brow crease, but it was gone in the blink of an eye.

"I want her to as well." Owain commented in a doubtful tone.

The rest of the week passed fairly quickly with only routine impositions on the queen's time. Soon, it was time to go and Her Majesty was taken to the first in a long line of limousines. She was seated next to her husband and, in the same car, rode the Duchess of Candiano, Sir Evyn Yorwerth, Colonel Madhavi Jafferbhoy, Brigadier General Sir Farkas Rosenbaum, Grand Duchess Morgan, the Duchess of Cadwallon, the Duchess of Charles, and Major Magda Cantacuzino.

Sitting in the limousine, once more surrounded with people, Marissa settled back in the seat, watching the world move passed the window. Despite her appearance of confidence, she was feeling a little uneasy. It was one thing to play queen from the safety of the palace, but this appearing in various locations around The Resurgent Dream was a little daunting. At least she had Owain there beside her.

She looked at her husband, smiling, before letting her gaze roam around the other occupants. Her gaze lingered on Morgan, and she gave the young woman she already thought of as a sister a warm smile. She knew exactly how the Grand Duchess felt, she had been in the same position. Having to leave those she knew and loved, but she would not have changed the decision she had made to be with Owain. Given the choice, she would do it again, exactly as she had this time.

“It seems only yesterday that we were preparing for this trip, and it is here already.” She spoke to Owain, once more looking at him. “I do hope everything goes smoothly.” Unconsciously, she reached over to take Owain’s hand.

Morgan smiled back weakly at the High Queen although there was something evasive in her smile, as though she did not seem to share Marissa's sentiment that their situations were comparable. The Duchess of Cadwallon smiled faintly and placed one hand lightly on the Grand Duchess's arm.

Owain took his wife's hand with a slight smile. "I am certain that it will, Your Majesty. I am quite confident that the people will love you."

Catching sight of Morgan’s smile, Marissa felt her heart sink. She could see there was something trouble the young woman she now called sister, but the two women had not grown close enough to become each other’s confidante, so it was with a saddened expression that Marissa once more focused on her husband, her smile returning instantly.

“As long as I have you, nothing else matters.” She squeezed Owain’s hand, feeling her confidence building in his touch. “I’m looking forward mostly to seeing the places that are particularly important to you, Your Majesty, like the places you grew up in and those that hold the most memories for you. I like the idea of sharing bits of your past as well as sharing your future.” She smiled awkwardly, realising that in a car full of people was not the time to speak so, even if he was her husband. She fell silent and gazed out of the window, watching the scenery pass by.

Owain smiled at his wife as she spoke. "We will have to show Her Majesty your cabin in Farinor, Sir Evyn. The one my father used to borrow when we went on holiday there."

Morgan blushed slightly, looking down. "Do we have to hear this story, Sire? It is..."

Owain just smirked lightly. "The cabin was rather small and when we stayed there it would just be the family and our nurse. One year, after we had arrived, our nurse took ill and so mother took her into Bharat to see a doctor. so we were alone with father, a fairly rare event in a family as blessed in material things as ours was. In any event, our father went out of the house to send a letter. Morgan became confused and, as this was all happening before dinner, called grandmother and told her that father had abandoned us and left us with no food. Of course, he had only been gone for about thirty seconds but Morgan here had her thinking that we'd been abandoned."

"You didn't tell Her Majesty the whole story, Sire." Morgan chided, looking at Marissa conspiratorily. "Grandmother asked to speak to Owain, him being the oldest, and she asked him what was going on. He said father had left. She asked again if he had had dinner. He said that he'd helped himself to a carrot which was all he wanted because he had decided he was a vegetarian."

Marissa laughed as Morgan finished the tale, and looked at Owain questioningly, one eyebrow slightly raised. “Your Majesty, I cannot believe that you would think only of your own wellbeing while your sisters starved.” She smiled, her eyes twinkling, as she turned to Morgan. “I do understand exactly how you must have felt, my brother is also the oldest in our family, and this story of yours reminds me of him immensely. Though, I do not ever recall him declaring himself a vegetarian, as I know he would never be able to survive on a carrot.”

Her smile left her face for a moment, as she tried to recall any tales in her childhood that would be comparable to the story she had just been told. “Though I have been in many situations, I’m not sure I can think of one that will be able to compete.” She smiled. “So, instead of boring you, I wonder if I can persuade you, Your Highness, to regale us with more tales of His Majesty’s childhood, as I am sure he will not tell me himself.”

"Well, Your Majesty, you might have noticed His Majesty is a little on the reserved side." Morgan mentioned. "Once, when he was about six or so, we were in Tarana and His Majesty happened to see a sign saying 'Keep off the grass.'"

"Not this story..." Owain complained. "It's not funny, Your Highness, just embarassing."

"In any event," Morgan continued "His Majesty didn't understand that the sign referred only to a specific lawn. He went the rest of the week convinced that he was not permitted to walk on grass. He would not go riding or play any outdoor sports. He would not even wander off the path. Our nurse told him again and again that the grass at our estate was permitted, but His Majesty thought he knew a strict rule."

"I don't think it was quite a week." Owain protested.

"It was." Morgan said with a small smirk.

Marissa fought back the urge to laugh, and managed to keep just a smile on her lips as she listened to the exchange between her husband and sister. She squeezed Owain’s hand as her eyes fell upon his face. “Your Majesty, it is very worthy of you to stick to rules so well.” She felt her lips struggle to maintain the smile and turned to Morgan, so that Owain would not notice.

“It does remind me of home. My grandfather, Emperor Acheron, was very fond of his peace and quiet. And although there were no signs around the grass – for he did not wish to spoil his view – he forbid anyone from walking on this particular lawn, as it would distract him from his work. This land was pristine. It was mown only when His Majesty was away from his study, and was always done with a push mower, despite the vastness of the lawn, and the gardeners did not wear heavy boots or anything.”

She paused, as she pictured the scene. “When Emperor Erebus took over from his father, he was so annoyed at the rule that had been placed on this particular piece of ground, he held a huge event to celebrate his coronation, including marquees and dancing, animals and everything…right in the middle of the lawn. My Grandmother did not speak to him for a month.” She frowned. “The story is not as interesting as your own, and I was not actually there to witness the events, being as they took place before I was born.” She stopped speaking, finally no longer struggling to stop herself from laughing at Owain.

The other occupants of the car laughed at Marissa's story. "That is fascinating, Your Majesty." exclaimed Morgan. "It is always very interesting to learn the little idiosyncracies of historical figures."

"It is fascinating." Owain acknoeldged. "Though, as Her Majesty says, not nearly so personal. My dear..." he said to his wife "...perhaps you might tell us a similarly amusing story of your own childhood."

*Bump cause my last post, while there, didn't move the thread up. Go figure*

“A more personal story?” Marissa looked at Owain and smiled, though her eyes said something quite different. She thought for a moment, trying to recall something that she could share with the occupants in the car, not that she had done anything really bad. “Let me see.” She frowned. “I remember one occasion when Mama had thrown a weekend gathering - a little like the one you attended, Your Majesty – when I was little more than seven, I would say.”

As she spoke her eyes flicked between Morgan and Owain. “My brother and sister were not invited to spend time with the adults during or after dinner and were herded up to our bedrooms. I recall one evening, when I could not sleep and I crept down to see what was happening. Evenings were always my favourite, as everyone dressed up so beautifully, the women’s gowns were always so colourful.” She laughed at herself.

“Well, I managed to sneak into the main room, and hid beneath a table to watch out of the way. My brother and I did so on quite a regular occasion. I remember sitting under there for what felt like hours, and I became very thirsty.” She grimaced at the thought that filled her head. “Of course, I popped out from under the table and grabbed the first drink I could find and not knowing what it was, I drank it very quickly. I don’t really recall much more after that other than waking up the following morning, having been found by one of the staff.” She frowned. “I do recall feeling very unwell the whole of the next day.”

Morgan and Cadwallon laughed heartily. Owain gave his wife an amused smile. "And what did the dear Lady Lavinia have to say about this?" he asked probingly.

Marissa laughed lightly, as the others did, then looked at Owain, smiling. “Oh, Mama was very worried. I’m not sure she really realised what had happened. I do remember her making a fuss of me. Papa on the other hand made certain that my brother, sister and I could not get into similar situation again. Of course, Hugo was very upset as he often used to sneak out to watch. I don’t think he really forgave me until he was old enough to partake in the parties himself.” She grinned. “Of course, we still managed to sneak out, just not as easily.”

Marissa let out a sigh. “I have to admit that since then I have been very careful not to drink too much.” She looked at her husband, with a grin. “So you need not worry about me making a fool of myself in the future.”

Owain laughed lightly at this. "Your Majesty, I am merely thanful that you were fool enough to marry me."

Sir Evyn smirked ever so faintly, looking to Queen Marissa. "Quite, Your Majesty. I have always known you to be a woman of wisdom and understanding and yet I cannot quite recognize those traits in your choice of husband."

Owain, trying to suppress a laugh, addressed his long-time best friend with mock severity. "You know, Sir Evyn, there are penalties at court for such unseemly speeches as your last."

Evyn just smiled, looking out the window. Conversation continued in this playful manner for the next few hours, until, at length, Sir Evyn said "We're starting into Narich. We should be at Saise Palace in short order."

The procession was indeed pulling off the highway and turning onto the roads of the vast city of Narich. Looking out the window, the passengers could see the towering skyline of Narich, the largest city in the High Kingdom. Whereas skyscrapers were almost unknown in Tarana, here dozens of glittering towers of glass and steel stretched heavenwards, hundreds of stories above the ground. Along the streets on the motorcades route, cheering crowds were lined up. The windows rolled down at Owain waved to the crowds on his side. Marissa seemed to be expected to do the same on hers.

“If my only moment of madness was to accept Your Majesty’s offer of marriage, then I consider myself very lucky to have had that moment.” Marissa looked between both Owain and Sir Evyn as she spoke.

Marissa smiled at Owain as they pulled off the highway some time later, and following his lead, waved happily to the waiting crowds out of her window, while at the same time trying to get her first view of Narich. Her gaze flicked around, watching the people and the scenery around her, noting the differences between Tarana and Narich. All the time, she smiled, happy to be at their first destination.

“One could certainly not mistake this place for Tarana,” she declared as she gazed upon the skyscrapers, running her eyes up as far as the roof of the car would allow. “It never fails to amaze me how different cities are to each other.” She looked back at the other occupants of the car. “Have you visited here before, Your Majesty?”

A few teenage boys ran along the cars for a short while, waving and shouting for the High Queen's attention. Other people threw flower petals, confetti, and even full bouquets at the queen. Most people just cheered and waved. An older woman in a wheelchair was pushed to the front of the crowd by her son. A few people refused to move for the old lady at first but the chiding looks of those around them soon pressured them to grudgingly give way. A father held a young boy of four or five up over the heads of those in front of them so he could see the queen. Other little boys and girls peeked around the legs of their elders. A few threw candy or toys, which they assumed Marissa would like.

Owain kept his gaze on the crowd. He moved his eyes from person to person, trying to make respectful eye contact with as many as possible even as he waved. "It does make a certain amoung of sense. The Marble City is the symbol of the nation. There is a taboo in Tarana of building any building so that it's top is higher than the Marble City's highest tower. No such taboo exists in Narich, which also happens to be far larger. So, naturally, the skyline has grown to resemble that of most large cities in the developed world."

Marissa smiled and continued to wave at the grounds while she listened to Owain. She liked it in Tarana, like the skyline. It was nice to see the sky rather than a whole host of buildings, of course, she like the sights that she was seeing before her as she gazed out of the vehicles windows.

“It does look very interesting here, and as they say, a change is as good as a rest.” She briefly turned back to Owain and gave him a smile, before once more focusing on the crowds outside. She watched the items that were tossed towards her, grateful that she was inside, as she feared that some of them would hurt if they had hit her. “I’ll be pleased once we can get out of the car and see things from a more stationary position.” From the tone of her voice, all those in the car would be able to tell that despite the fun in her voice, the chance to stand was most welcoming.

Owain laughed slightly. "It will be just a few more minutes, Your Majesty." he reassured Marissa as he continued to wave at the crowds.

It was about ten more minutes before they finally did arrive at the front gate of Saise Palace. The towering, long Neo-Classical Palace shimmered in the afternoon sun as the motorcade drove slowly passed the finely carved and bejewelled gryffon fountain and through the gates which closed behind them.

Grand Duchess Gwendolyn was there to meet them at the foot of the Palace steps, along with her husband Peter. As footmen opened the doors for the king and queen and their companions, Gwendolyn courtseyed. "Your Majesties, welcome to Shieldcrest."

Stepping out of the car, Marissa was pleased to feel life come back to her body. As much as she liked the journey, watching the scenery change outside the window, she was happy to once more be able to move of her own volition. She smiled, as she took in the sights around her, focusing on the fountain as she walked passed, keeping up with Owain.

As her gaze fell upon Grand Duchess Gwendolyn, she finally felt that they had arrived. “Your Highnesses, it is a pleasure to be here.” Marissa hoped that Owain would not be too offended that she had replied. She listened to the sounds behind her, knowing that the others inside the vehicle would slowly be exiting and making their way to the foot of the steps.

"Your Highness." Owain said, nodding to Gwendolyn.

"It is a pleasure to have you here, Your Majesties." Gwendolyn said with a grin. "We have been greatly looking forward to your visit."

Peter, standing beside Gwendolyn, bowed slightly to Owain and Marissa. "Your Majesties," he said, "it is always a pleasure to see you."

"And you as well, Your Highness." Owain answered. He introduced his party, with each person curtseying or bowing to Peter and Gwendolyn as their name was mentioned. After everyone had been presented, Owain smiled slightly to Peter. "So what is planned for this evening?"

Marissa smiled at Peter. “It is a pleasure to be here.” She fell silent as Owain made the rest of the introductions, her eyes once more turning to Gwendolyn seeing once more how happy she was. She could not help hoping that Morgan, who had seemed very distant in the car, would be equally as happy. She was certain that it would be nice for the two sisters and brother to spend some time together. The thought made her suddenly feel a little homesick for her own family, though apart from a brief darkening of her eyes, her face revealed nothing of her thoughts.

Peter smiled and nodded to the members of the party as they were introduced. “A pleasure to meet you,” the prince said to various officials in turn. He smiled a little more warmly at Morgan. “A pleasure to see you again, your Highness.” He bowed slightly to his sister-in-law before turning his attention back to the High King and Queen.

“Your Majesties,” Peter said with a light smile, “Her Highness and I have planned a small celebration, with a select group of friends and,” the prince’s smile took on a mischievous quality, “for better or worse, a few prominent officials and citizens. A chamber orchestra will perform during a light dinner, then I have arranged for one of my favourite bands from Excalbia,” the prince gave Gwendolyn a quick wink, “to give a small performance.”

"That does sound quite delightful." Owain commented. "I must confess, as Her Majesty is quite able to tell you, that I am a man of little discerning power when it comes to music, Your Highness, so I shall trust to your judgment."

Owain then stepped back, taking Gwendolyn's arm and heading inside the palace. "Tell me, Your Highness, what are you serving?"

"Veal with walnuts for the main course." Gwendolyn said with a smile.

Sir Evyn offered his arm to High Queen Marissa. "Your Majesty?"

Morgan walked up to Prince Peter, giving a weak smile. "It is lovely to be visiting, Your Highness. I hope you're settling in pleasantly."

Sir Farkas offered his arm to the Duchess of Candiano. A number of young men of Gwendolyn's court came over to offer their arms to the other ladies.

Peter smiled and offered his arm to Morgan. "Yes, quite well, your Highness. And Her Highness and I are both quite pleased to see you again. We hope you will enjoy your stay."

"I am certain I will." Morgan answered Peter with a smile. "It's been too long since I've been to Narich."

"Well, your Highness," Peter said full of charm, "I hope your visits will be far more frequent in the future."

Marissa accepted Sir Evyn’s arm and followed the rest of the party as they began to enter the building. Her eyes were flicking around her as they walked, taking in as much of the sights as she could on her first visit. “Have you had the pleasure of visiting Narich before, Sir Evyn?” She asked, making polite conversation, as she looked in his direction, smiling. “It does look so different from Tarana. It’s nice to see new places.”

"If only that were possible..." Morgan said with a far off, whistful air, smiling at the charm.

"I have been quite often, Your Majesty." Sir Evyn answered the High Queen. "I understand this is your first visit?"

Marissa nodded, her eyes falling upon Sir Evyn’s face. “Yes, this is indeed my first visit. I have yet to see much of The Resurgents Dream. Of course, this tour should help to make my knowledge better.” She smiled, as once more her gaze flicked around her, taking in the sights. “I fear I’m going to be overwhelmed with learning so much about His Majesty’s homeland. I just hope that I can remember enough once we return home. I cannot imagine anything worse than forgetting everything.”

She looked at Owain walking up ahead with his sister. “It is so nice to see Her Highness, Grand Duchess Gwendolyn again, especially in her own home.” She once more caught Evyn’s eyes as they walked. “Are you on good terms with His Majesty’s sisters?”

"I doubt His Majesty expects you to remember every detail, madame." Sir Evyn reassured Marissa. "Myself, I cannot even remember the capitals of all the principalities off the top of my head. These days, they make all the school children memorize them but...I was a little too old to be affected by that policy."

As they entered Saise Palace, filled with Peter and Gwendolyn's friends, Shieldcrest courtiers, and prominent officials, Sir Evyn quietly pointed out a few important people, who the others already knew, to the High Queen. "The fellow over there is Rhiwallon Mabe. He's the Prif Weinidog of Shieldcrest, which is just a Welsh way of saying First Minister. He's the leader of the Shieldcrest Principality Government. That gentleman over there is John Coleridge. He's a very prominent screen actor who was probably invited because of his extensive work with children's charities. The lady with him is Lizzy Wickham, one of his co-stars in his most recent film. The man over there is Lieutenant General Moreton Darcy, an officer of good reputation and quite popular in society..."

"If only that were possible..." Morgan said with a far off, whistful air, smiling at the charm.

Peter smiled. "I have found that almost anything is possible. If one is stubborn enough..."

"I fear I have already been more than stubborn enough, Your Highness." Morgan answered Peter. She smiled nervously before changing the subject. "So, what is this strange new game you and Her Highness have brought from Excalbia? I heard the Shadow Minister for Defense ranting about it in Parliament, along with a long list of foreign sports and bands."

Owain and Gwendolyn, meanwhile, were walking from dignitary to dignitary, exchanging a few polite words. Here and there he paused briefly for small talk about riding or hunting or surfing or partaking in one of the many other pursuits considered appropriate recreation for Danaan aristocrats. The High King deftly avoided any talk of his sister's upcoming wedding, of politics, or of the ongoing military effort in Ambara.

After a few moments, everyone was together again and Owain returned Gwendolyn to her husband and reclaimed his wife from Sir Evyn.

Peter nodded, sensing that Morgan wanted to change the subject. “Oh,” he said, smiling, “you mean baseball? I know it is new here, but it is not uncommon; it is played in much of the Western Hemisphere and in several places in Asia.” The prince chuckled. “I am a little surprised that it has gained, if not popularity, at least notoriety here so quickly. I guess people are intrigued by something new. And it is a fairly easy sport to play without too much needed in the way of equipment. So, it seems to have to become somewhat popular among recreational leagues and schools.”

The prince looked around the room, then leaned towards his sister-in-law. “I know you are a keen student of politics, perhaps you can explain to me why some parties are so resistant to foreign cultural influences. Certainly they realize that the Danaan culture is strong and vibrant and hardly at risk from such influences. In the end, such things are simply spice to add extra flavour to the staples of Danaan culture.”

"I doubt Davies is seriously worried." Morgan said confidently. "He just thinks, or at least expects his supporters to think, that everything is meant as an insult. He's not worried about baseball harming anything. He simply thinks that you and Her Highness preferring it over more local sports is an insult. He thinks that the entirety of the negotiations for my marriage are a grave insult to us by Pantocratoria and he thinks the Emperor adds additional insult by usurping the father of the bride's usual right to plan the honeymoon, especially since the His Imperial Majesty has choosen a sport generally disliked by Danaans, for cultural reasons."

Gwendolyn smiled as she was returned to Peter's side, curtseying briefly to Morgan. "It's good to see that you two are getting along so well. Are you looking forward to the band, Your Royal Highness?"

Morgan smiled slightly, returning the curtsey. "I am, actually. I have heard that Danaan and Excalbian popular music are surprisingly similar. I'd like to see if it holds true."

"I don't know enough about music to judge such things." Gwendolyn confessed. "However, I do know that I tend to enjoy His Highness's bands a good deal."

Peter shook his head slowly at Morgan. The young prince had come to hold people like Davies, who put pride above all and who seek to twist everything into a slight – all for political advantage, in low regard. “It’s a shame,” Peter said, deciding to keep his stronger feelings to himself.

He felt Gwendolyn approach and turned towards her with a smile. He held out his hand for her and stood by as she chatted with her sister.

“And I am pleased that Her Highness has developed a taste for my favourite groups.” The prince smiled warmly. “I had hoped to have BrainFreeze perform, but they are on tour, so I have invited my second favourite, a group called Ilgak Laiks. They play a jazz-folk fusion, flavoured with pop that is similar to the ‘Freeze. The folk elements tend to have something of a Celtic sound…”

"It is." Morgan said. "Although, I do think I would enjoy myself a great deal more if my brother had insisted upon choosing a location. Antartica is not exactly my idea of an ideal vacation spot." She shrugged slightly.

"Perhaps you will be like the people in that Betty Kime film?" Gwendolyn jested, referring to a comedy (loosely based on real events) which had been quite popular the previous year, in which a Lavenrunzian coach trained the first ever Olympic Danaan bobsled team.

"Perhaps we could ask Mr. Coleridge about that." Sir Evyn said. "I seem to recall that he had a cameo or two."

"I'm afraid I didn't see it." Morgan said with a demure blush. "I do not often manage to see the latest films. There is a cinema in the Royal Palace but it is seldom used."

"I just don't think there's as much art in it as in the theatre." Owain insisted. "Especially now that most modern films rely so much more upon computer technologies than upon the skill of actors, directors, or writers."

Peter smiled and nodded. He did not really know much about film and even less about the stage. He knew what he liked, but those films and plays that he enjoyed tended to be too eclectic to classify and they tended to run into genres most people either did not like or did not want to admit liking. So, he simply smiled and listened.

Marissa listened intently to the conversation, smiling as people gave their views. “Film may be less arty nowadays, but one certainly cannot admit that the technology involved in creating some of the effects involved is almost an art in itself. There will come a time when people are no longer needed to perform, which will be a shame in itself, but the possibilities are endless.” She paused. “Of course, nothing will ever be able to take away from the atmosphere one gets from attending a live performance and watching people performing on a stage. Given the option, I would most certainly choose the theatre over a cinema .”

Owain nodded a little, as though thoughtful. "I believe we are all largely in agreemenent then. Of course, with the Olympics coming up, the minds of many in the nation are turned more towards entertainments such as figure skating. Tell me, do any of you enjoy figure skating?"

Gwendolyn grinned slightly as she turned to her brother. "I suppose you'll be seeing Saba Ch'ak'iso while you're in Shieldcrest, then?"

"I am considering it. I do not normally attend public entertainments but I have been considering making an exception." Owain answered.

"If you do, Peter and I shall have to join you." Gwendolyn answered with a smile before gesturing to the milling crowd graciously. "But, please, feel free to mingle if Your Majesties wish. It is not a gracious hostess who monopolizes the attention of her guests of honor."

"Oh, but you are our sister." Morgan protested, even as she looked about the room for the next person to talk to.

Gwendolyn smiled slightly. "Maybe a moment more."

Morgan grinned a little. "I shall be sure to treasure it." She turned, after a moment, to Peter. "Tell me, Your Highness, do you enjoy figure skating?"

Marissa stood listening, trying to recall place people that were mentioned. Being a newcomer, it was not always easy to bring to mind information about The Resurgent Dream, but it did not take too long to place the name, and recall mention of the skater before. As a child, she had enjoyed spending time on the frozen pounds of one of their estates, but she had to admit that following any professional winter sports was completely above her, it had not featured heavily in her youth, even though on occasion she had attended events with her parents as part of her royal lifestyle.

But the idea of spending time with Owain and his family during such an event sounded most pleasing to her, and the enthusiasm shown by those present began to rub off on her, even if she did not voice her opinion. It was something she could save and talk to her husband about later when they were alone, so that she could gather more information from him.

“If you will all excuse me, I believe I will take this opportunity to stroll around the room.” She looked at each of those present, smiling gratefully. “Your Majesty, Your Highnesses.” She acknowledged each before turning to stretch her legs.”

Gwendolyn smiled to her sister-in-law. "Of course. You are perfectly free. Is there anyone in particular you would have introduced to you, Your Majesty?"

Marissa let her gaze travel around the room for a moment, looking at those present, then turned her attention back to Gwendolyn. “I shall let my feet guide me and Fate chose my next conversation partner.” She leant in a little, her voice lowered almost conspiratorially. “Mostly I need to feel my legs move again, as I was seated a long time in the car.” She stood back upright and smiled. “I was merely thinking of a turn around the room while you, your brother and your sister catch up a little.”

"Of course, Your Majesty." Gwendolyn said, politely withdrawing to Owain and Morgan once more. She rested one delicate, white hand on her brother's arm for a brief moment, smiling lightly, before moving on to repeat the gesture with her sister.

"It really has been too long, Your Highness." Morgan said. "I've missed you sorely ever since you and His Highness moved into Saise Palace and I, with His Majesty, into the Royal Palace at Tarana. I do hope life is to your liking here?"

Gwendolyn smiled faintly, giving her husband a sidelong glance. "Oh, I have everything I need, Your Highness. And you? How are things at the Palace?"

"I am not to reside their long." Morgan pointed out. "My wedding is coming up in the near future."

"Things at the palace have been somewhat tense lately." Owain confessed. "Her Grace is still preparing for her on wedding and has been in rather poor spirits nonetheless."

Marissa moved a little way from the group, then stopped and watched as they merged together. She smiled as she witnessed not for the first time how close the three were. Although she was now a member of the family, there were times when she was not really close enough to all of them to be truly a member. There was so little that she knew about all of them. She knew that Morgan was having a hard time with her upcoming wedding, but being as the two women were hardly confidantes, it was easier to step away and let them deal with it together.

Turning, she continued to walk, feeling somewhat lonely. For a moment a desire to be with her own family swept over her, amongst whom she was able to be more herself. Another look at Owain made everything disappear, and she knew that given the choice she would still follow the path she had taken. There was no one she would rather be with and she wanted to make him happy.

She continued around the room, smiling to those present while doing her best not to stop. She wanted to get back to her family, yet she wanted to give them time to talk. Morgan needed her family around her, and it was the least she could do to give them time together.

"Is Her Majesty well?" Gwendolyn asked in a slightly worried tone as she watched Marissa walk around the room by herself, avoiding actual conversation.

"I think she is just trying to..." Owain frowned thoughtfully for a moment, shaking his head and not finishing the sentence.

Gwendolyn nodded, glancing to her husband. "I know it can be hard to adjust to a new home."

Although she had made it a job of hers to learn to recognise as many people as possible, doing a little homework to make sure that she could talk to those around her, Marissa was always surprised how many people she did not know. It was a strange feeling for her, as back home she used to know so many people, having moved in the same circles all her life. Even as a child she seemed to know so many people and was able to name their family connections and ranks without too much thought.

She looked back at Owain and his sisters, happy that she had managed to find a new family that suited her so well. They were a charming group of people, and even their extended family seemed to welcome her. She smiled as she thought of Gwendolyn’s parents-in-law, who had been so inviting on the eve of her own wedding.

Strolling around the room, she stopped to speak to the odd face that she knew, while she smiled and greeted those that she did not. Finally, having been away for more time than she thought was polite, she walked back to her family group, smiling with each as she approached.

“This is such a beautiful room,” she announced as she stopped beside Owain, hoping that she had not interrupted anything. “It must be delightful living here, your highnesses.” She addressed both Gwendolyn and Peter as she spoke.

"I certainly think so." Gwendolyn said, looking to her husband for confirmation. "It's one of the oldest palaces in the Resurgent Dream. Narich was the very first Western city on Danaan soil. My first ancestor to rule here was styles King of Narich...Well, my first European ancestor."

"Perhaps we can take a tour of some of the historical sites while we're here?" Owain suggested. "I would love to show them to Her Majesty."

"Yes, it's quite lovely here," Peter said to Marissa. Then, turning slightly towards Gwendolyn, he added, "In fact, your Majesty, I would be quite content to remain her fulltime, if my responsibilities back in Excalbia did not make the regular trips there unavoidable."

Peter nodded at Owain's suggestion and looked to Gwendolyn. "That sounds wonderful; I know there are still many sites I haven't seen yet…"

The party went on in much the same manner for some time. Eventually, the small group of royalty broke up to mingle with the great host of aristocrats, officers, politicians, and other public figures who were in attendance. Marissa might have been comforted to note that neither Owain, Evyn, nor Morgan seemed to know who most of them were or why they were here. These people were important, but they were important provincially. In any other principality, no one would have been expected to know them. In Tarana, they would have been minor players.

Eventually, it was time for dinner. As was customary, the guests were not paired with their spouses. Instead, younger men were paired with older women and vice-versa. It was an old custom and carried with it something of the condescending sentimentality of schoolboys helping crippled old ladies across the street, albeit with a more aristocratic air. At the lead table, Owain, Marissa, Gwendolyn, Peter, Morgan, Sir Evyn, and the Duchess of Candiano all sat with their distinguished older partners. "Since I understand this tour is largely to sample the wide variety of peoples and customs in the Resurgent Dream, Your Majesties, I've instructed my cooks to prepare a meal with decidedly local flavor." Gwendolyn announced as all were seated.

Marissa sat down, her eyes taking in the locations of the other guests. Her gaze briefly paused on Owain, before continuing their sweep of the table. She looked down at the place setting, checking out the layout, although it was always set the same, it was always good not to be caught out once the first course arrived. Her attention finally settled on Gwendolyn as she addressed the table.

“It is always nice to get a taste of the local cuisine,” Marissa answered, though she was directing the statement to no one in particular. “I have enjoyed experiencing the dishes of The Resurgent Dream since making it my home. I am looking forward to trying more.” She smiled, before falling quiet, paying a little more attention to the two people sat either side of her.

The first dish served was cawl,a dish brought to Shieldcrest by Welsh settlers which was one of the most common foods of the principality. among ordinary people, only cawl broth would have been served for a soup course. Cawl proper would only be eaten as a one-course meal. However, the food is always more luxurious at a courtly table and thus the guests began with real cawl.

Cawl was a stew-like dish consisting of meat and vegetables. In this case, it consisted of lamb and bacon with leeks, potatoes, and carrots. The courtiers ate politely but eagerly. It was rare that they got to share normal, regional foods with their Grand Duchess. Normally, formal banquets involved some very impressive looking inventions of fine chefs. The inventions always looked impressive and tasted like one expected fine food to taste, which often wasn't quite as good as a solid, hearty meals, even to aristocratic tastes.

"This is a dish called cawl, Your Majesty." Gwendolyn informed Marissa. "When we were children, His Majesty, Her Highness, and I used to have it for luncheon most days that we weren't at court."

Peter savoured the stew as he took a bite. He smiled towards his wife and Marissa. “It is quite tasty; reminds me of the Winter Stew they serve in the highlands of Excalbia.”

"I'm glad you like it, Your Highness." Gwendolyn said, smiling at her husband. "Perhaps we should have it more often?"

Marissa took a mouthful of the food and found it as pleasing at the others at the table. She had always been fond of stew, especially in the depths of winter, and the cawl was very pleasant.

“It is very tasty,” she agreed with Peter before responding to Gwendolyn. “I am surprised that you could manage such a hearty meal at luncheon. I believe we rarely had anything this substantial between breakfast and dinner.” She took another bite of the meal. As she finished swallowing, she turned to Owain and smiled. “There is so much about you I have yet to learn.”

Gwendolyn paused a moment as though embarassed. Owain, covering for his sister, turned to his wife. "Do pace yourself, Your Majesty. In private, we had a simple bowl but this is still a court dinner. It is just beginning."

It was Marissa’s turn to feel a little embarrassed. Unfortunately her remark seemed to have been taken as in insult, which is certainly had not meant to be. She smiled, and nodded her head. “I will indeed pace myself, Your Majesty.” She took another mouthful of the food, chewing thoughtfully.

Owain just gave his wife a small, reassuring smile. The conversation at the table moved on rather quickly. Sir Evyn and the Duchess of Candiano were in excellent spirits and even Morgan was beginning to cheer up. The party moved from one topic to another as young people in conversation tend to. The situation in Ambara was, of course, an object of great concern to everyone at the table. Sir Evyn, in particular, was anxious that the Marlunders begin governing and defending themselves as soon as possible. Another popular topic was politics, although Owain went fairly quiet when it came up and avoided making the slightest partisan comment. The others seemed more favorable to the Conservative Democrats who they regarded as the party of the aristocracy. The older guests, in particular, were quite overt in basing their support on the belief that the Conservative Democrats would best maintain their privilege. However, once or twice when they spoke too insultingly of the current Progressive Democratic Sacker Government, Owain would shift ever so slightly to indicate that such talk about a Prime Minister of the Resurgent Dream was absolutely inappropriate in the presence of the Sovereign. He never did have to do more than shift to get them to go quiet and then start their conversation again in a more respectful vein.

The guests said fairly little about themselves personally. Aside from politics and war, they limited themselves to praising the food and to flattering the King’s wife and sisters. Marissa heard herself compared to “the radiant sun, casting her light on all she surveys.” Gwendolyn, on the other hand, was “a shining star come to earth” and Morgan was “a tender beam of moonlight.” The Danaan ladies accepted these compliments with a gracious, if slightly bemused, declaration that they were wholly undeserved.

The meal was indeed, just beginning. The guests all left some of their cawl in the bowl. It wasn’t polite to clean one’s plate at court. Of course, given modern sensitivities, the food was no longer simply wasted as it might have been a hundred years ago. Most of the leftovers would go to feed for food animals or to compost for crops. More food would be made from what wasn’t eaten today.

After the cawl had been removed, the guests were served the entrée, salmon in a popular local sauce. This was followed immediately by a blood orange and rosemary sorbet to cleanse the palate before the meat course. The meat was steak, served according to the Queen’s preferences. The pudding was summer pudding using only freshly picked local berries. The meal was finished off by an Y Fenni cheese.

After dinner, ladies and gentleman separated for a time, men retiring to the drawing room with the King and the Prince of Kuldiga and women to the sitting room with the Queen and the Grand Duchess. They would gather again after about an hour to listen to the band which Peter had procured and then the guests would go home and those spending the night in the palace would have a few hours to themselves before retiring for the evening.

Marissa would have been lying if she had said she was not grateful to say goodnight to the last of the guests. It had been a long day, what with the travelling and the evening’s events. She carefully lowered herself down into a seat, a soft sigh escaping from her lips, inaudible to those around her. Despite her feelings, a smile was present on her lips as she made herself comfortable.

“Your Highnesses, I must thank you both for the most pleasant of evenings.” Her eyes flicked between Peter and Gwendolyn as she spoke. “It has been a most enjoyable start to our visit.” She genuinely meant what she said, and her eyes revealed the sentiment behind her words.

She looked over at Owain. She knew that some parts of the dinner conversation had been very hard on him. Unlike a lot of the people present, some of his real feelings on matters had to be kept in check. Politics was always a tricky subject for him, but he always impressed her with the calm way that he handled things, and even managed to halt a conversation without words. She, on the other hand, would have had to speak out and probably would have ended up causing more problems than she stopped.

Giving him a smile, she turned her attention back to her hosts. “I hope you will excuse me if I retire. It has been a busy day and I want to be in fine form for tomorrow.” She rose from her seat, but did not make to leave.

Peter passed the rest of the meal chatting amicably with his guests. At times the Prince of Kuldiga felt almost schizophrenic – or more properly a man with multiple personalities. On one hand he had generally preferred the company of a small circle of close friends and pursuits that involved a fair amount of physical activity, motion and sound – hardly courtly fare. On the other hand, he had always possessed the ability – like flipping a switch – to put on a very different persona, one that was accomplished at making small talk, sounding polished and erudite about issues most ordinary people had little interest, and engaging in idle court gossip.

For most of dinner, the latter personality was in charge. The “real” Peter, as he thought of himself, managed to surface from time-to-time, particularly when the group separated and the men headed off together with the High King towards the drawing room. He found himself looking forward to getting to know his brother-in-law a little better.

Still, he was grateful to return to his wife’s side an hour later for the concert. He smiled as he approached Gwendolyn. He had once mocked his cousin, Prince Joseph, for being so devoted to his wife, Princess Anna. Now, that he was married himself, he found himself understanding why Joseph had seemed so unperturbed by his taunts.

Following the concert, when Marissa stood to bid them good night, Peter stood and bowed deeply. However, he held his tongue waiting to see whether Owain would join his queen and effectively bring the evening to an end.

“I actually think I will retire as well.” Owain said, rising to join his wife “if Your Highnesses have no objection.” It did not take long after that for the other guests to retire, whether to their homes of to their own chambers in the Palace.

The next day, the royal party took in a baseball game, a sport introduced to Shieldcrest by the Grand Ducal couple. After a light lunch, they then took a tour of the sites associated with the Battle of Narich. Gwendolyn and Morgan were both eager to narrate to Peter, Marissa, and the other courtiers the story of how, at this battle, loyal forces under the command of their father, the Duke of Tasat, had beaten back the forces attempting to establish fascism and feudalism in the Resurgent Dream through a military coup. Owain, however, was almost entirely silent throughout the entire tour.

That evening, Owain, Marissa, Gwendolyn, Peter, and Morgan all traveled out into the country to the family’s ancestral seat of Tasat. After a light dinner, the party retired. Gwendolyn briefly showed Peter the old nursery and the bedroom which had been hers in infancy, both preserved at the insistence of her mother, before retiring with him to the room where she had slept as a young woman. The only change that had been made to this room was that a larger bed had been installed so that Gwendolyn could comfortably stay here with her husband.

The King and Queen retired to the master bedroom but Owain, who was normally quite relaxed when alone with his wife, seemed quite uncomfortable. He lay stiffly near the edge of the bed and kept his hands rather stiffly folded across his belly. Although he closed his eyes immediately and said nothing, he didn’t seem to be sleeping and he fidgeted every now and again in discomfort.

Marissa enjoyed the following day. She was always interested in learning new things about The Resurgent Dream and about her family. Spending time with them all doing normal things like baseball always made her smile, not that she was really that big a fan, and had to ask several questions during the game to make sure that she was following properly.

She listened intently as Gwendolyn and Morgan shared their family history. She asked questions with real interest as they explained the role their father had played. Her lips were drawn into a smile for most of the day, though she was a little worried about Owain’s behaviour. He spoke little and showed hardly any enthusiasm to what was going on around him. But Marissa did not want to spoil the day, so she silently continued as usual.

Having enjoyed a wonderful dinner, Marissa was pleased to once more be alone with Owain. She did not like it when he was out of sorts and she worried about him. As she returned from bathing, she was disheartened to find her husband lying on the bed, seemingly asleep.

She walked over to the bed and climbed in, her eyes soon focusing on the man beside her. She merely sat watching him for a moment, until she was sure that he was not asleep. Shifting slightly in the bed, she placed her hand lightly on his arm.

“Owain?” Her voice was soft as she spoke. “I do not know what is the matter, but I want you to know that I am here if you need me.” She paused for a moment, waiting for some reaction. “You’ve been so quiet today.” She paused again. “I am your wife and your queen, and I want to help you, if I can.” Her gaze rested on his face as she fell silent, her hand remained lightly on his arm.

Owain took his wife's hand and brought it to his lips, lightly kissing her on the back of her hand. "This is actually the first time I've ever slept in this bed." Owain said, which probably didn't actually explain anything.

Marissa frowned a little. If she had been trying to guess what he was going to answer, she was sure it would not have been that. She looked around her, realising that the room had been used by Owain’s parents as he was growing up. Having not experienced the situation herself before, she could not tell exactly how it must feel, but she could imagine.

“It must be very strange, stepping into your father’s shoes.” She smiled, as she curled her fingers around his, holding his hand in hers. “Head of the house, it’s a big responsibility.” She paused for a moment and looked at her husband. “If it makes you feel any better,” she grinned playfully, “this is the first time I’ve ever slept in this bed too.”