ROLEPLAY HQ - an-arrangement-for-peace

Tw: Mentions of violence, sexual content

Ever since she was a little girl Astrid could remember her people talking about the tensions with the humans. The multiple wars that had been fought between the two races in the past. All she had ever heard about the humans was bad. That they hurt anything in their path, didn't care for the earth that gave them life, that they would lie, cheat, steal and murder as they pleased. It had been drilled into her head not to go anywhere near their territories since before she could talk more than five steps on her own. When she had gotten older she was rarely allowed to go anywhere on her own, unless she was sneaking about of course. She had managed to get away with it a few times, always drinking in the freedom of being in the forest without watchful eyes whenever she could. Only once had she stumbled upon a human hunter and she had quickly hidden amongst the trees to make sure he never laid eyes on her. She knew better, too many of her friends had gone missing, sold off to men that didn't have good intentions. So why now was she standing here, her life being given away by her own father as an attempt to make peace, to fulfill the prophecy that was foretold when she was just a baby. It had been kept from her until just a few short months ago and when she'd tried to protest it had fallen on deaf ears. She tried to fight it up until this very day, her mother waking her early to start getting her ready, adorning her in the most beautiful dress and circlet that she could find in their kingdom. She would have found the attire beautiful if she was marrying for love, but there was no love to be found. She had never even met the man she was about to be wed to and the thought had bile rising in her throat as they made the trek to the neighboring territory. Why me she thought the entire way there, the world seeming to dull around her. Once they approached the building in which she was to be wed her and her parents were quickly ushered inside and she was already desperate to

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find a way out and back to the home she had always known. @OriginalMeta

Marilis, the crown prince of the kingdom. At his birth, the oracle that hadn't had vision for decades awoke. A prophecy one that spoke of peace and a new age of prosperity. It even went on to speak of the hero of ages born from the union of unlikely souls. Apparently, the same prophecy was told by the fae oracle. It was problematic, although rare, a prophecy was binding, if it were to be avoided calamity soon followed. When the word of the prophecy got out, it caused panic. The only interpretation would be that the two children whispered the prophecy were fated to wed. The problem was one was human, the other was fae. The fae were backwoods, nature beings that impeded the advancement of society for the sake of nature. At least that is what Marilis was told, he had actually never seen one. In fact most people today have never seen one. He heard whispers that sometimes fae would be sold on the black market slave trade, something his father spend years trying to eradicate unsuccessfully. He had been groomed for this day since he was a boy sat next to the window of his room looking out the window. He stared at the road waiting to see when she would arrive. His parents were taking this whole prophecy thing seriously. Marilis did not. He found it hard to believe that a forced wedding could somehow magically bring peace between two races that seemed to hate each other. He had been dreading this day his whole life. He would play his part, it is what would be expected of him as prince. That didn't mean he had to enjoy it.

8:58 AM

In the distance he saw them arrive, and with a heavy sigh Marilis stood and went to meet his parents in the atrium where he would be wedded to a strange fae woman. He walked down the hall with his head held high, as he passed the guards and handmaidens. As he entered the room, his parents waved him over. Marilis waited by what appeared to be an alter. Right to it huh? I don't even get to have a civil conversation with her first. Again he sighed as he waited for her to enter.

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@KillahxKylie

To say that Astrid was uncomfortable was the understatement of the century. She had never been inside such an intimidating and cold building before. Her eyes wandered as they made their way inside, so much stone. She had never seen so much of it hard in buildings before. All of the buildings in her village used it sparingly relying mostly on wood and moss, she found it curious really why the humans would use so much of it. I want to go home. She thought again with every judging glance that came her way. She thought perhaps it was the dress, she had never worn so much white in her life, but that was expected of her today so that couldn't be it. 'To represent purity' her mother had explained, as if anyone had ever been able to lay so much as a finger on her in her entire life. It hadn't much dawned on her that the people looking at her in such a way might be afraid of her. She couldn't imagine why they would be, she'd been practicing containing her emotions for weeks to make sure she didn't light up like a firefly at her discomfort. When they finally entered the room with the man who she assumed was about to be her husband she felt her heart quicken, she wanted to run as far away as she could peace and prophecy be damned but she didn't she couldn't disgrace her family like that. "H-hello" she said with a police dip of her chin just the way she was told to. "I'm Astrid Nightwater and it's an honor to be here." @OriginalMeta

Marilis waited patently. Each second seemed like an eternity. Although his heart was beating fast, he kept a calm face. His whole life he had been trained to maintain a regal demeanor. He had so many questions running through his head. Questions that he felt like he should have about his wife. Even the basics like What does she even look like? This was even deeper than if she was pretty or not. Marilis didn't even know if fae looked like some sort of human/beast hybrid. Finally the doors opened. Marilis held his breath as is soon to be wife entered the room. When he saw her he was surprised. She didn't look beastly at all. In fact it was the opposite, she was beautiful with long fiery hair. She wore a pure white dress that was the perfect elegance with enough to show she was a woman to be desired. So this is my supposed fated wife? At least she isn't a beast. Her looks aside, I don't see how they expect me to have any love for her She approached him and he stood up a little straighter. "It's nice to meet you as well. I'm Marilis Ambrosia" He held his hand out for a handshake. He didn't know what else was appropriate. @KillahxKylie

So that's going to be my new name. She thought when he introduced himself. He wasn't a terrible looking man, in all honesty if the circumstances were different she may even admit that he was handsome. A little bit stuffy but what else could she expect from a prince. It took her a few moments to realize she was holding out his hand to her since she was so lost in her own thoughts. Looking to her parents with a look that screamed she had no idea what to do she reached for his hand and shook it. She had soft delicate hands and she knew they must feel so weak in the handshake she gave. She had been forced to stop using her bow for months before they were to be wed so that the calluses she had would have time to soften and by now they were as good as gone. "You have a lovely home." She added even though she hated everything about it, from the stone to the way even her flats seemed to echo off the floors so loudly. How does anyone get an ounce of peace or privacy here? It didn't help that it seemed like from the moment she had arrived more than one set of eyes were on her at all times. She didn't understand why, aside from the slight point of her ears she looked just like them. Especially when her emotions were in check and her eyes and skin weren't set aglow. She awaited for whatever was to come next while the pairs parents exchanged pleasantries. Before she knew it in came a priest that looked as though he should have passed many years ago. He read a few things from a book that she had never read before and she couldn't understand the significance of the words, she pretended to just fine though and the next thing she knew she was a wife. She had managed to pay a smith a pretty penny to get make sure she had a ring to present to him and she hoped that it was enough in comparison to the one he presented her. He probably didn't even pick it. She thought with a heavy sigh, mourning the person she used to be already, even if just by name. @OriginalMeta

"You have a lovely home." "Thank you." Marilis relied Sometimes it seems like a prison if you ask me. He thought to himself. It was always as if he was under the watchful eyes of his parents. They spent his entire life preparing him to be this harbinger of peace and father to the hero of ages. Marilis wasn't afforded the luxury of having a childhood. Now he was grown and would be married in a few moments. Marilis resented the fae Infront of him. His entire life was altered, because she was born. He understood the same could be said about him to her, but he was too closedminded to see that. All he could see was the manifestation of the years of lectures regarding peace and stability. How if the fae would become allies the economic benefits would be immeasurable. All his life he was groomed to please her, his whole life has been about her. He hated it. What was so special about her? Why him? When the priest entered, Marilis' heart dropped. It was finally time. He stood there in a trance as the words were said that tied them together. The time came for them to exchange rings. On her finger he placed one of the kingdoms treasures, the luminosity. It was a ring worn by every queen of the kingdom since the first created with each gemstone found in the kingdom. The ring was made with emeralds, rubies, sapphires. The ring was a symbol of the queen, and he was giving it to her. He know that by extension of him becoming the king one day she would be queen one do so it made sense to give her the ring. It just sat wrong with him. Once the deed was done, their parents seemed overjoyed. Marilis knew what was coming, his parents had set up some "honeymoon house" for them the bond. He know they would push them together. He would do what, his country needed but that didn't mean he would rush or enjoy it. "Well I guess its official." He said. @KillahxKylie

Official. That it was. She held her hand up to look at the ring he had just put on her finger, suddenly becoming more aware of the inferiority of the simple gold band she had presented to him. The weight of it feeling like much more than gold and priceless gems, it felt like a death sentence. The person Astrid was was no longer of any importance, not to anyone here anyway. To everyone now she was simply Marilis Ambrosias wife, the future queen and all else be damned. It mattered no longer than she was one of the best archers the fae had seen in many years, that she could bake a perfect loaf of nearly any kind of bread, how her cross stitch was flawless, no all of that was lost now and she realized it was just as she had always been taught: humans ruin everything. The newlyweds were then celebrated at a grand feast where they shared a very stiff dance and Astrid found herself feeling to heartbroken to eat much of anything. The spread was unlike anything she had ever seen before and the amount that was simply discarded after left her in shock. How can they be so wasteful? She thought as she watched servant after servant take away plate after plate, some never being touched at all. .

2:41 PM

The inside of the home was similar to the castle in many ways but much less daunting. The walls were made of wood and stone and in the living area there was a large stone fireplace. The kitchen, which she was surprised to see appeared to be well kept and freshly stocked. There were ample furs and quilts strewn about to ensure warmth and much to her delight there were actually carpets in some areas. She couldn't stand the echo of her own steps any longer. Making her way to the stairs she went to explore the bedroom, she knew there would only be one bed but the sight of it still made her cringe, at least it looked to be plenty comfortable. The dressers were already full of clothes for the both of them and it appeared his parents had gifted her with a fine silver brush. So materialistic. She thought but she ran it through her hair anyway. She turned when she heard the floor shift under his steps as he approached and entered the same room. "I don't intent on consummating this marriage tonight." Was all she could think to say, her parents had told her that was traditions way of doing things and she had made up her mind then and there that she would not be partaking. @OriginalMeta

Marilis was in a sour mood. His life had just been signed away. He was expected to bring peace to a conflict he understood so little about. From what he had read the Fae loved nature more than anything. It was from this where the conflict first began. The Fae saw humans as taking too much from the earth, without replenishing it. The humans say them as too conservative and primitive. The conflict had been going on so long that many of no longer understand the reason why the two races avoided each other. As Marilis shared a dance with his new wife, he watched her carefully. Was she really some backwoods creature. From what he seen she carried herself with poise and seemed to understand the gravity of the situation. It was clear she had been told of the human's customs and was working hard to adhere to them out of respect. Marilis was deep though as plate after plate was brought to him in an attempt to please him. The chief clearly taking his disinterest of the food as a sign he was unsatisfied with the food. In truth Marilis just didn't have an appetite. While at the dinner he was his father, Alaric, pat him on the shoulder. "Be happy my son. The prophecy has been fulfilled. This is a wonderous moment." He said loud enough only for the head table of the two families to hear. "Yes father it is wonderful moment." Marilis replied. He plastered on the smile that had been practiced through years of conditioning. "Well partially fulfilled. There is still the hero of ages part. Good thing we build you that house right" His father said with a wink. It took all of Marilis willpower to not make a disgusted face at his father's crudeness. "I haven't forgot my duties father." was all he could respond with. The rest of the dinner was uneventful. There was a clear tension at the dinner as it was the first time in recent history there was a gathering of human and fae. Marilis couldn't help but think maybe this was the peace the prophecy meant. They were in the same room al

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l because he got married. After the feast. They were quickly ushered to their own 'private paradise'. More like a prison. They arrived at the house and Marilis was surprised by the quaintness of it. He know his parents had ordered its construction but they wanted it to be a surprise for him so he had never saw it. He expected it to be bigger. Maybe that was by designed, his parents wanted them to get close is both aspects of the word. As they walked in the Astrid walked ahead of him. She entered the home leaving him alone outside. The sun was setting on the war summer day. As he walked, he heard the unique sound of bird. He had never seen it before. He turned his head and say perched in a three was a nest with a bird and its chicks. The vibrant colors on the bird resembled a bird he vaguely remembered reading about. Marilis wondered if was that rare bird he read about. Maybe I should as my fae wife. Shouldn't she know? Marilis went into the house and followed Astrid into what appeared to be the bedroom. "I don't intent on consummating this marriage tonight." The comment caught him off guard. "Well I'm glad we are on the same page. I didn't come in her to try and jump on you. I came to ask you a question." He said as he walked over to the window and pointed. "Do you know what bird that is? I think I've read about it before, suppose to be rare right?" He asked with excitement. Marilis was never allowed to venture outside for too long. His parents were fearful if something happened to him the disaster of an unfulfilled prophecy would occur. Because of this he always felt drawn to the outdoors he knew nothing about other than books. @KillahxKylie

"Oh. Good." She felt a little embarrassed for making such a sudden and bold assumption but she knew how men were, she had always been warned that once she was of a certain age they would all be after one thing, and she was made aware more than once that she was to save herself for her future husband. She knew eventually they would have to try to bring peace but for now she was happy to pretend that day would never come, even if it meant she never knew the touch of a man in that manner. She found it strange that he came to ask her about the bird, she didn't think humans cared much for things like that, at least not in anything more serious than a passing thought. When she made her way to the window where he was pointing she couldn't help but smile at the sight, a soft warm and genuine smile, the first she'd had since she arrived. "An oriental dwarf kingfisher, and it looks like it has babies." The sight made her long for her home but at least it wasn't completely lost, she was happy there were still trees and wildlife, even if it wasn't in as much abundance. She pushed the window open and held her hand out whistling high and soft for the bird who tilted it's head a few times curiously before flitting over to perch on the outstretched digit. "She's beautiful." She smiled and didn't realize the way her eyes had started to glow softly from the sudden surge of longing she felt, the bird whistling a small fine before taking flight to go back to the nest, Astrid's eyes following and soaking up every moment. @OriginalMeta

Marilis was relieved that she allowed the situation to pass. He was caught off guard by her willingness to even bring up the topic. He hadn't given it much thought before now, but as he looked her he did find her attractive. In a world where met organically he could see himself trying to court her. It was a shame she was the reason for why his life had been robbed of freedom. When she asked about the bird she approached the window to look at the bird. As they looked together, she told him the name. "oriental dwarf kingfisher" he repeated committing the name to memory. As she looked at the bird, Marilis turned and looked at her. He caught her smile. She has such a nice smile As she opened the window, whistled, and held out a hand for the bird Marilis was amazed by the connection she had with the bird. A smile crept on his face at the interaction. He looked at her again and saw her eyes. It shocked him. He didn't know her eyes could do that. He backed away from her. "Astrid your eyes." He said with a hint of fear in his voice. @KillahxKylie

Astrid was so busy enjoying just watching the bird outside their window that she almost didn't catch what he had said, after a few extra moments it dawned on her. The fear in his voice was something she should have known she was going to hear eventually, she couldn't keep all of the parts of who she was hidden forever. She took a deep breath and tried to focus hard enough that the glow subsided before she finally responded to him, a hint of pain in her voice from hearing the fear in his. "I didn't mean to scare you, it's just a part of who I am whenever I'm feeling something intensely my eyes and sometimes even my skin glow like that." She sighed knowing it was more than likely pointless to get a human to understand. None of them had abilities or powers, at least from what she'd been taught. "My parents used to call me their little firefly when I was growing up. It was much harder to control when I was young." She didn't know what else to say, when she was with her own people everybody's differences and abilities were celebrated and cherished as something special. Nobody was afraid of each other for things like this but here, she knew that would be a different story. That she would have to hide who she really was, it made her heart hurt. "I'm sorry. I'll try not to let it happen again Marilis." She dipped her chin in apology trying hard not to cry. @OriginalMeta

Marilis could sense the pain and disappointment in Astrid's voice. He had never meant to scare her, but it was clear that he had unintentionally triggered a reaction from her. As he watched her try to control her glow, he felt a sense of awe and wonder. He had never met anyone like her before. "It's okay, Astrid," he said softly, trying to reassure her. "I'm not scared of you. I think it's amazing, actually. I can't even begin to imagine what it's like to have abilities like yours. It's... it's kind of beautiful, in a way." As they sat in silence for a few moments, Marilis couldn't help but think about the situation they were in. They had been forced into this marriage, and they were still strangers to each other. But there was something about Astrid that he found himself drawn to, something that he couldn't quite put into words. "I know we don't really know each other yet," he said, breaking the silence. "But I don't want you to think I'm a bad person or that I think you are one." He could see the uncertainty in Astrid's eyes, and he knew that she was still struggling to come to terms with the situation they were in. But he hoped that his words could offer her some comfort, some sense of security. Marilis cleared his throat, feeling a bit nervous. He wanted to make sure that Astrid knew he was sincere in his words, that he wasn't just saying them to make her feel better. "I know it's not ideal, being forced into this marriage and all," he continued. "But I want to make the best of it. And maybe, just maybe, we can get to know each other better and find something... something more." He couldn't believe he was saying this, but there was a part of him that wanted to explore what this marriage could be. He had always been open-minded, and he knew that there was more to Astrid than just her abilities. "I don't want us to be strangers forever," he said, reaching out to take her hand. "Maybe we can start by telling each other more about ourselves. Our likes, disli

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kes, dreams, anything really." He squeezed her hand gently, hoping that she would understand his sincerity. He didn't know where this was all leading, but he was willing to take the first step and see where it went. @KillahxKylie

She let all of his words sink in the best she could, she would be lying if she said she wasn't shocked by him saying he wasn't afraid of her, that her gifts were beautiful. She never thought a human of all creatures would be the one to say such a thing to her and she had to admit she liked the way he said her name, soft but sure. He has a nice voice. "I don't think you're a bad person but I think humans are bad by nature." She answered honestly, all she had ever learned had taught her that they would say and do whatever they had to to get what they want and she wasn't going to let herself be fooled so easily, even if the man before her did seem kind so far. When he said that he wanted to see if the marriage they had been forced into could ever be more she was shocked and she was sure it showed all over her face. She almost pulled away when he took her hand but she decided against it. What's the worst that could happen from holding his hand? "I would.. be okay with learning a bit more about each other." She tugged him along back down the stairs to the comfortable furnishings so they could sit down, she wasn't about to sit on the bed with the man that was for certain. "So.. what do you want to know about me? I didn't think you'd have any interest in anything other than forcing me to have this child so I don't really know where to start." She knew her words were a bit harsh but they were true and if he wanted to know the real her then she certainly wasn't going to hold back and keep pretending to be the princess that he was always expected to marry by everyone else. She had manners of course but she wasn't the girl who would bend to the whims of man, especially not a human man. @OriginalMeta

Marilis couldn't help but feel a twinge of hurt at Astrid's words. He knew that humans weren't perfect, but to hear her say that they were inherently bad stung a little. However, he didn't want to argue with her about it. Instead, he listened attentively as she led him back down the stairs and they sat on the couch together. "I want to know everything about you," he said earnestly. "Your hopes, your dreams, your fears. I want to know what makes you happy and what makes you sad. I want to know what you like and what you don't like. I want to know everything, Astrid." He reached over and took her hand again, gently squeezing it. He could feel her tension, but he didn't want to let go just yet. He wanted her to feel his sincerity, to understand that he was serious about wanting to make this marriage work. "As for the child," he continued, "I know that's something we have to consider. But I don't want it to be the only thing we focus on. I want to build a real relationship with you, one that's based on trust and mutual respect. I know it won't be easy, but I'm willing to try if you are." He paused for a moment, searching for the right words to say. "I don't want you to think that I'm trying to force you to be someone you're not. I want you to be yourself, always. And I promise to do the same." @KillahxKylie

Everything. Could she really tell him even a fraction of the things he wanted to know about her and have him still feel the same? She wasn't anywhere near what was expected of human royalty, a human queen. She was meant to be prim and proper at all times and act more like a figurehead than an actual person. That wasn't her, no matter how much her parents had told her what to expect. "Well.. my hopes and dreams.. I used to want to settle down and have a small family with a man that I met and fell in love with but that's, well, we both know that's not how life worked out for me. Nature makes me happy, being outside in the forest with the animals and the plants and the streams that's where I'm the happiest. I don't like hollow feeling homes and I don't like liars..." She paused for a few long moments. "Fears.. well I'm afraid of humans. And thunder." She squoze his hand back a little not wanting him to think that she outright hated him. "It's just that I always thought when I had children they would be with a man that I loved more than anything.. not a man I was forced to marry just because of a prophecy I mean what if it isn't even true?" She knew that she shouldn't question the prophecy out loud but she couldn't help it, she had wondered so many times if it was even true. "I'm afraid to be myself and have your people toss me out because I'm too strange Marilis. I don't belong here..." She said the last part more quietly as she stared into the fireplace, previously lit by who she could only assume prepared the house for their arrival. @OriginalMeta

Marilis tried his best to suppress the resentment he felt towards Astrid. He couldn't help but blame her for the way his life had been groomed to marry her, all because of a prophecy. He was conflicted internally, but he knew he had to be nice to her externally. "I understand how you feel, Astrid," he said, trying to comfort her. "The pressure of the prophecy, the weight of our families' expectations, it's all overwhelming. But maybe, just maybe, we can find a way to make the best of our situation." He gave her a small smile, hoping to ease the tension between them. "I want to get to know you, the real you, not just the princess that everyone expects you to be. I have my own doubts about this prophecy and being forced into this marriage, but I think we owe it to ourselves to at least try to make something of it." As she opened up about her hopes, dreams, and fears, Marilis listened intently. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt for his previous resentment towards her. She was just as trapped in this situation as he was. "I'm sorry you have to go through this, Astrid," he said softly. "I know it's not what you wanted or expected, and it's not fair. But we're in this together now, and I want to be here for you. As for your fears, I promise you that I won't let anyone hurt you or make you feel like you don't belong. You're different, yes, but that's what makes you special." He gave her hand a gentle squeeze, hoping to convey some of the warmth and kindness he felt towards her. Maybe, just maybe, they could find a way to make this marriage work. @KillahxKylie

"You must have some resentment towards me, you don't have to act like just a prince you know. You can be whoever Marilis Ambrosia really is underneath it all." She understood at least on a logical level that this must not be what he expected either, she could see it in his eyes that he was just as torn as she was. She hadn't taken into consideration that just because he was human didn't mean that he wanted this. "I'd like to know you too, if you'll let me." She let him keep holding her hand finding that she did feel some sort of comfort from the gesture. She knew that it would be easier to accept that he was going to be a permanent part of her life from this day forward and try to make the best of it but the idea of them somehow actually growing to have feelings for each other seemed impossible. Knowing that he would at least keep her safe from harm made her feel mildly better, though not completely ridding her of the fear of nearly everyone else in this kingdom. Anyone at any moment could turn on her and she knew it, they wouldn't all be so accepting of her differences. "I think I'd like to get changed out of my dress now" She rose to her feet pulling her hand from his in the process. "But then I'd love to learn a little more about you if you'll let me. I'll make some tea too." A small smile found its way to her lips before she turned to climb the stairs, pulling open the dresser to sort through her options and settling on a light nightgown that was a deep scarlet color, she was never able to sleep in the heavier fabric ones. Once she was dressed she made her way back down the stairs and to the kitchen to pull a kettle from a cupboard and filled it with water before setting it on the stove. "Do you have a preference for which kind of tea?" @OriginalMeta

Marilis couldn't help but feel some resentment towards her. He blamed her for the reason his life had been groomed to marry her, and he couldn't shake the feeling that he was losing control of his own destiny. Despite his internal conflict, he wanted to be kind to her externally. He appreciated her offer to get to know each other better, but he wasn't sure if he was ready to open up just yet. As she stood up, he reluctantly let go of her hand, feeling a small pang of disappointment. He watched as she made her way up the stairs, feeling a mix of emotions. He knew that he had to make the best of the situation, but he couldn't help but feel a sense of loss for the life he had wanted for himself. When she returned, dressed in a scarlet nightgown, he couldn't help but notice how beautiful she looked. He shook his head to clear his thoughts and focused on the present. When she asked about his tea preference, he shrugged. "I don't have a preference, whatever you have is fine." As she prepared the tea, he leaned against the kitchen counter, feeling a bit more relaxed. He watched her move around the kitchen with a grace that he found captivating. He cleared his throat before speaking. "So, what do you want to know?" @KillahxKylie

"Hmmm" she hummed looking through the cupboards to see what options were available and settled on a nice camomile, she figured both of them could use something to help settle them from the stress of the day. "Camomile it is then" she leaned against the counter next to him as she waited for the water to come to a boil thinking about what she wanted to ask first. "I want to know the same things you asked of me. Your likes and dislikes, hopes and dreams, what you would do with your life if ours hadn't both been set in stone before we had a choice." She let her eyes meet his briefly before they drifted downwards. "Like you said neither of us chose this but maybe we can at least have some sort of friendship." She couldn't truly imagine anything more with the man who stood in front of her, at least not yet. She didn't know nearly enough about him but she couldn't say that she wasn't curious. He was already different than the way she thought she knew humans to be and that in itself was intriguing enough. "I just want to know who Marilis Ambrosia is other than the heir to the throne. Titles mean nothing to me." She wouldn't dare say that aloud near anyone else, they would frown upon it given she was to be the future queen now that Marilis was married. It was true though, it didn't matter to her that he was a prince that didn't change who he was as a person, in his core. @OriginalMeta

Marilis listened to her words and let out a small sigh. He appreciated her attempt to reach out to him, but he couldn't help feeling a sense of bitterness towards her. "I suppose that's fair," he said, looking down at his hands. "But to be honest, I don't know who I am without this title. My whole life has been groomed towards this moment, towards marrying you and ruling alongside you." He looked up at her, meeting her eyes. "I'm not saying that I'm not interested in getting to know you, but it's hard to separate myself from this life that I've always known." He paused for a moment, contemplating his words. "I do have interests outside of my duties, of course. I enjoy reading, mostly history and philosophy. I also like to paint, but I haven't had much time for it lately." He leaned against the counter, watching as she poured the hot water into the teapot. "As for hopes and dreams, well, I suppose I always wanted to make a difference in the world. To leave a legacy, I guess. It sounds silly now that I say it out loud, but it's true." He shook his head, feeling foolish. "I'm sorry, I'm not very good at this. Talking about myself, I mean." He offered her a small smile, hoping to lighten the mood. "What about you? What do you enjoy doing?" @KillahxKylie

When his words really sank in Astrid felt s stranger sense of.. guilt. She hadn't been expecting to feel that way out of all the many emotions she could have felt but that's what her heart and mind settled on. She hadn't considered the fact that he was just as innocent in all of this as she was, or that he had been robbed of his entire childhood in a way that she wasn't. Up until just a few short months ago Astrid hadn't even known that she was the girl the prophecy talked about. She got to live a relatively normal, if anything a little sheltered life. "Marilis I'm so sorry I didn't realize.. your entire life.." her words trailed off as she tried to find the right thing to say but she knew it didn't exist and she couldn't blame him for having his reservations about her. Her spirits lifted a little though when he mentioned that he enjoyed painting as one of his hobbies though, reading as well but that's the one that really caught her attention. Taking his hand more willingly this time when he reached for her she's smiled a little. "No really it's okay, talking about yourself is hard. I love to paint too, any kind of art. And reading as well! I spent a fair amount of time in the forest tucked against a tree getting lost in fairytales. My father says that's why I have such an unrealistic idea of love." It made her blush to admit such a thing aloud to her new husband, it certainly wasn't like there was any romance between the two of them. She was so happy to be talking about something other than the marriage that she hadn't noticed that speaking of her hobbies and the art she enjoyed doing or the books she loved to get lost in had slowly made her eyes light up like a lightning bug on a hot summer night again. @OriginalMeta

Marilis couldn't help but feel conflicted as he held Astrid's hand. On the one hand, he harbored some resentment towards her for the way his life had been groomed for this marriage. He had never had a say in the matter and felt like he had lost his chance at a normal life. But on the other hand, he knew that it wasn't entirely her fault. She hadn't asked for this any more than he had. He could see in her eyes that she was just as torn as he was. As Astrid spoke, Marilis found himself feeling guilty for his previous resentment. He realized that he had never really considered her feelings in all of this. He had been so focused on his own loss that he had failed to see that she was being forced into this situation as well. When Astrid mentioned that she wanted to get to know him better, Marilis felt a flicker of hope. Maybe they could at least be friends. He was grateful when she took his hand more willingly this time and smiled at him. As she spoke about her own hobbies and interests, Marilis felt his own spirits lift. He was surprised to find that they shared a love of painting and reading. "It sounds like we have more in common than I thought," he said with a small smile. "Maybe we can paint together sometime or share our favorite books." Marilis watched as Astrid's eyes lit up when talking about her hobbies and interests. The sight brought a smile to his face and a sense of relief to his heart. It was a far cry from the fear he had felt the last time her eyes had glowed like that. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt for causing that fear in her and he made a silent promise to himself to do better in understanding her and being there for her. He was grateful for the distraction of talking about their hobbies and interests. It was a welcome break from the weighty topic of their forced marriage and the responsibilities that came with it. Marilis found himself opening up to her more about his love for painting and reading, two hobbies that gave him solace

9:04 PM

from the demands of his duties as a prince. @KillahxKylie

Once Marilis really started to open up a little more to her about the two hobbies they seemed to really connect on she could feel herself growing a little more comfortable. Of course the situation they were forced into was still less than ideal but she had to admit to herself that it could be much, much worse. Marilis seemed like a kind and gentle soul, even with all of the feelings of disdain he must have also felt towards her he had never shown her anything but kindness, or at the very least politeness. She knew she wouldn't be able to say the same about most men, especially not human men. "I would love to paint together or read together sometime.. maybe we could even find a nice place in the forest to settle with our books." She smiled softer as the kettle began to whistle and she let go of his hand so she could pour the water into the rather large mugs she had pulled from the cupboard. "Honey...honey..." She mumbled more to herself than anything as she searched a couple cupboards before finding sugar cubes and fresh honey. "How do you take yours?" Her eyes flicked up to his briefly as she added two sugar cubes and a spoonful of honey to her own mug and stirred, having lost their glow when the kettle started to scream. This was one of the things Astrid had always loved, she liked to take care of people and do things that helped them even if it was something as simple as making a cup of tea. She would be sure to remember just how he liked it so that she wouldn't have to ask the next time, it had crossed her mind before they had met that if she didn't seem bothersome to him he may be kinder. That wasn't an issue anymore, at least not so far, but still she found herself wanting to do at least some of her traditionally wifely duties. @OriginalMeta

As Astrid poured the water into the mugs, she asked him how he took his tea. Marilis paused for a moment, considering his options. He had never really put much thought into it before, but he figured he should at least have a preference. "I'll take mine with a bit of milk and a single sugar cube, please," he said, deciding that sounded good. He watched as she added the sugar cubes and honey to her own mug before stirring it together. The way she took care of him, even in this small way, made him feel a warmth in his chest. He couldn't remember the last time someone had done something nice for him like that without expecting anything in return. "Thank you," he said softly as she handed him his mug. Taking a sip, he savored the warmth of the tea on his tongue. It was comforting in a way he hadn't realized he needed until now. "I would like that," he said, referring to her suggestion of painting or reading together. "I haven't had much time for hobbies lately, but it sounds like a nice way to spend some free time." He found himself feeling more at ease around Astrid as they continued to talk about their hobbies and interests. It was a small glimmer of hope in what had been a bleak situation.

7:11 PM

@KillahxKylie

"Coming right up." She smiled a little as she added a little bit of milk and a sugar cube to the mug opposite of hers and stirred until the sugar was fully dissolved, handing it to him carefully when she was finished and putting the milk away. "No need to thank me, it would be rude not to ask." "Have you ever had much time for hobbies and things? I always imagined the life of a prince to be so busy. I certainly never envied the ones I read about." She had always had so much time to just do the things that she wanted, of course she had her responsibilities but once those were taken care of her time was hers alone and she didn't realize just how grateful she was for that until she had to come here and leave everything she had ever known behind, including her very way of life. @OriginalMeta

Marilis accepted the mug of tea with a nod of appreciation, the warmth of the beverage soothing his senses. He took a small sip, savoring the familiar taste of tea with just the right amount of milk and sugar. Astrid's thoughtful gesture brought a faint smile to his lips, and he felt a glimmer of gratitude towards her. "I appreciate your consideration," he said softly, his tone sincere. "As for hobbies, I must admit that my childhood was quite different from what you might expect. I was never given the luxury of pursuing personal interests or hobbies. My life was filled with training, studies, and preparing for my role as the future ruler of the kingdom. But I have always found solace in painting and reading, they were my escape from the demands and expectations placed upon me." He took another sip of tea, looking at Astrid with a newfound sense of understanding. "I can relate to your love for art and literature. It's a way to transport ourselves to different worlds, to express our thoughts and emotions freely. I'm glad we share these interests, and I would be honored to paint or read together with you in the future, perhaps in the peacefulness of the forest." As he spoke, Marilis noticed how Astrid's eyes lit up again, and this time it brought him happiness instead of fear. He found her enthusiasm and passion for art and literature endearing, and it made him feel more at ease in her presence. Perhaps they could find common ground and build a connection beyond the circumstances they were forced into. "I hope we can find moments of joy and shared interests amidst the challenges we face," Marilis added, a genuine warmth in his voice. "Thank you for the tea, Astrid. It's the best cup of tea I've had in a long time." He offered her a small, appreciative smile, realizing that maybe, just maybe, they could find a way to make the best out of their situation together. @KillahxKylie

As Astrid listened to all of the things he had to do growing up she found more and more that her distaste for the man in front of her was melting away. Certainly he wouldn't have chosen to do those things for himself if people didn't have such high expectations of him. She couldn't imagine how it must feel to have known that the entire future of the kingdom rested on his shoulders even as a child. At least her parents had done her the grace of not telling her until it was closer to the time for them to be wed. At first the fact that the had kept it from her had left her feeling hurt, and lied to. But now? Now it seemed like it was more of a blessing than anything. She made a mental note to thank her parents the next time she got to see them, she hoped it wouldn't be too few and far between that she got to visit with them, they were her entire world after all. Giving Marilis a small smile of her own she sipped her tea, she found that she was a little more hopeful now of their situation. It felt like they had much more in common than she had initially realized or thought possible. He didn't seem anything like what she had always been told and she was so grateful for it. Listening to him talk about the things he liked to do, and how they were an escape for him from the real world made her eyes light up again. "What do you like to paint the most? I always leaned towards painting flowers and trees and the wildlife that lives in them too." She smiled again remembering one of her favorite ones she had ever done of a bumblebee taking a rest inside of a blooming bluebell. "I know that.. things aren't exactly the way either of us had envisioned for ourselves but for what it's worth Marilis I think you're a very kind man and well.. I could certainly have chosen worse for a husband." @OriginalMeta

Marilis felt his heart swell with warmth at her words, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the situation that brought them together. As she asked him about his favorite things to paint, he felt a genuine excitement bubble up inside him. It was refreshing to talk about something he enjoyed, something that felt like his own, rather than the weight of his responsibilities. "I enjoy painting landscapes," he answered, a smile forming on his face. "Especially ones that are off the beaten path, places that are secluded and quiet. It's like finding a hidden treasure, you know?" As Astrid complimented him, Marilis felt his cheeks flush with a slight embarrassment. He had never been very good at taking compliments, especially ones that were directed towards his character rather than his position. "Thank you, Astrid," he said, his voice soft. "I must admit that I didn't expect to find such kindness in this situation. But I am grateful for it." He took a sip of his tea and savored the warmth of it, feeling a sense of comfort in the silence that followed. For the first time in a long while, he felt like he could breathe easy, like he didn't have to constantly look over his shoulder or worry about every word he said. As he looked over at Astrid, he couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. Maybe this wasn't the life he had imagined for himself, but perhaps it was the life he needed. @KillahxKylie

Astrid let them sit there for awhile enjoying the peaceful silence, it didn't feel heavy or strained the way it did before, that gnawing need to fill it not feeling quite so strong. Once she had finished her tea she brought her cup to the sink to wash and put back in it's proper place. She came to sit back down with Marilis finding herself feeling much more calm than before in general. She was still feeling rather nervous about the future and what she knew they would have to do but at least there wasn't a big rush, at least not yet. "Will you show me something of yours that you've made someday?" She asked picking up the conversation from before. "Oh and just so you know you're not alone in that sentiment, I didn't expect to find kindness in your either. In any human really. I'm grateful for it." @OriginalMeta

Marilis nodded in response to Astrid's request, feeling a sense of warmth at the thought of sharing his art with her. "Of course, I would be happy to show you. I have a few pieces back in my chambers that I could bring out for you to see," he said, a small smile forming on his lips. He was grateful for the chance to share something so personal with someone, especially with Astrid, who had surprised him with her kindness and openness. "And thank you, Astrid. It means a lot to hear that from you," he added, his tone sincere. Despite their circumstances, he was starting to feel a sense of camaraderie with her, a shared understanding of the struggles they both faced. It was a small comfort, but one that he appreciated nonetheless. @KillahxKylie

She liked his smile. Astrid found that he looked much more kind and gentle when he was smiling, he looked so serious without it, he was attractive either way but she thought he looked his best when he was smiling. The mention of his quarters sparked a question in her mind about their current living arrangement. "I would love to see them Marilis." "No need to thank me, one of my flaws is being honest to a fault, I'm sure someday you'll end up sick of it' She laughed softly chewing her lip for just a moment before she spoke again. "When will we be moving into the castle? I know it's expected of us to live there I know having this place to ourselves is only temporary in the hopes that we.. try to conceive the child the prophecy spoke of." @OriginalMeta

Marilis smiled warmly at Astrid's comment and nodded in agreement. "I'm glad you think so. And of course, I'll be happy to show you my quarters sometime." As for the question about their living arrangement, Marilis took a sip of his tea before answering. "We'll be moving into the castle within the week. The preparations have already been made, and the staff is ready to receive us. As for the prophecy, well, we don't have to start trying right away. We have time to adjust to our new life and each other. And besides, I believe that we should only have a child if we both truly want one." He looked at Astrid with a soft expression. "I know that this is not the life either of us expected, but I'm willing to make the best of it with you. We can support each other and find happiness together." @KillahxKylie

She nodded along when he explained that they would be moving in within the week. She wasn't really sure how she felt about it, at least here felt a bit more homey than the cold walls of the castle. Of course she hadn't seen the quarters in which they would be living yet but she could only assume it would be just as overwhelming as the rest of the castle. Then there was the fact that there were so many more people in the castle with them. Marilis seemed kind so far, but as far as she was concerned the rest of them could very well be a danger to her. She didn't feel like it was safe to be herself there the way that she could here. Still though, she knew that this was how things needed to be. She felt some relief at the fact that he wasn't in a rush to fulfill the prophecy in the same way that the both of their parents seemed to be, more so his than hers. "I do want a child. I've always known that I wanted to be a mother someday.. I just didn't think that this is how it would happen." She gave him a soft smile, she knew he understood more than anyone ever could how strange this situation felt. "Will we both be living in your previous quarter or will we have our own new one together? I'm sorry if it seems to be a silly question but I've clearly never been anywhere like this before." @OriginalMeta

Marilis smiled reassuringly at Astrid. "It's not a silly question at all, my dear. In fact, I haven't given much thought to which quarters we will be living in. But I think it's safe to say that you have more authority than you know, especially with that ring on your finger." He gestured to the Luminosity ring that he had given her. "That ring has been passed down to every queen of the human race, and it gives you more power and authority than you realize. You can probably pick any room in the castle that you want." He paused for a moment before continuing. "As for me, I'm not really attached to any particular quarters, so I don't mind where we end up living. I just want you to be comfortable and happy." He gave her a warm smile, hoping to ease any worries she may have had about their living arrangements. @KillahxKylie

She nodded and gave him another soft smile, appreciative of how he was trying to reassure her about everything. She glanced at the ring on her finger, the way it glistened in even the slightest of light. She knew when he put it on her finger that it must be special but she didn't know just how special it was. "I don't feel like I deserve such an heirloom when I'm not even a human, much less a queen. Well.. not yet anyway." It hit her then that before long they would crown him the king and thus her the queen and she wasn't sure she would ever be ready for such a heavy responsibility. How could she rule over other people when she barely even knew who she was yet? Especially now. She tried to shake off the thought for now knowing that they at least had a little time before that would happen. She had some time to adjust to this way of life, his way of life. She only hoped that he would continue to be this kind and patient through it all. "Will we be living in the same quarters or...?" Astrid truly wasn't sure which she preferred right now. Marilis was the only person here that she knew, but at the same time she was nervous to live with him in such a close manner. Maybe after the week was over she would be more used to it, to him, but right now it felt so strange. It felt like no matter what she did she would be uncomfortable. The thought tugged her lips into a small frown. "I would be okay with either option of course if you prefer your personal space. But I do think I would like to remain close by." @OriginalMeta

Marilis smiled at her again, the gentleness in his eyes never fading. "You are more than deserving of it, Astrid. You may not be human, but you are my partner and that makes you just as much a part of the human race as anyone else. And as for being a queen, I have no doubt in my mind that you will be an amazing ruler. You have a kind heart and a strong spirit, two qualities that are essential for leading others." He paused for a moment, considering her question. "As for the living arrangements, I hadn't given it much thought yet. But I think we could have our own quarters together, if that's what you would prefer. I would like to be close to you, Astrid. And I think it would be good for us to have our own space to retreat to when we need it." He reached over and took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "We'll figure it out together, okay? We're in this together, every step of the way." @KillahxKylie

She smiled at that, she had never really thought about it that way. She knew that she was strong, she'd dealt with a lot in her life, her family had been through a lot in her years but they always came out stronger on the other side of it. "Thank you Marilis that means a lot to me, as unfamiliar as I am with the ways of humans I still want to be a good ruler." "I agree with you. I just.. well I feel safe when you're near. I don't know anyone else yet and well you've been so kind and accepting of me. I think that's a perfect idea." She smiled softly this time when he took her hand, finding it more comforting than before. "Together." She gave his hand a small squeeze too, noting that his hands were so soft and warm against her own. "Are you tired at all? I was thinking of turning in for the night soon, I won't lie the day has really taken it out of me and now that I feel a little more settle and comfortable I think I'll be able to sleep" @OriginalMeta

Marilis couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth spread through him as he listened to her speak. Her strength and determination were admirable, and he couldn't help but feel proud to be by her side. However, as they both turned their attention to the bed, Marilis couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern. There was only one bed in the room, and while it was certainly large enough for both of them to sleep in, he didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable or put any pressure on her. As he considered the situation, he decided that the best course of action was to take the couch. "Actually, there's only one bed in here," he said, gesturing to the large bed in the center of the room. "But I can take the couch. I want you to feel comfortable and safe, and I don't want to make you feel like you have to share a bed with me if you don't want to." Marilis couldn't help but feel a bit nervous as he spoke. He didn't want to make her uncomfortable or put her in a difficult position, but he also didn't want to distance himself from her. He cared about her deeply, and he wanted to make sure that she knew that she could always rely on him. @KillahxKylie

Astrid felt her cheeks tint in a blush when he pointed out the one bed in the room. I guess that makes sense, with what we're supposed to be doing after all. The thought only made her blush more. She'd never been with any man and the thought of being with Marilis made her feel a very confusing mix of emotions. "Are you sure you don't mind? You won't be uncomfortable? It feels like bad manners of me to be asking a prince to sleep on the couch." She spoke nervously as well, not wanting to offend him in any way or make him feel as though she though she didn't want to be near him. "I wouldn't mind sharing if it would be easier to sleep. It's plenty large and we wouldn't even have to touch." She was hoping her offer didn't come off as promiscuous because that wasn't her intention at all, she just wanted her husband, and her only companion at the moment to be comfortable. @OriginalMeta

Marilis could feel his heart rate quicken as he noticed the one bed in the room. The thought of sharing it with Astrid was definitely causing a stir of emotions in him as well. He couldn't deny that he found her to be stunningly beautiful, and the idea of being so close to her all night was making it hard for him to focus on anything else. As she spoke, he tried to reign in his thoughts and pay attention to her words. He didn't want her to think that he was only agreeing to share the bed for his own selfish desires. "Of course, I don't mind at all," he said, trying to keep his tone steady. "And please, don't worry about me. I can sleep on the couch just fine." He watched as Astrid nervously offered to share the bed, and he couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment when she mentioned not touching. But he quickly pushed that thought away, reminding himself that they were supposed to be taking things slow and getting to know each other first. "That's very kind of you, Astrid," he said, a soft smile on his lips. "But I don't want you to feel uncomfortable. We can both have our own space and still be close enough to talk if we need to." He hoped his words reassured her, but he couldn't help but feel a pang of regret that he wouldn't be able to hold her close all night. @KillahxKylie

She nodded unsure of what else to say and searching for the right words. One thing she was good at was reading people and she definitely saw the flicker of disappointment cross his face so quickly. It wasn't unnoticed that he tried to hide it for her sake and she appreciated it more than she knew how to put into words. "Thank you Marilis, that means a lot to me and I really appreciate you giving me some time to.. acclimate to all of this. It's.. well it's a bit embarrassing but I've never um.. been with anyone in this way. In any way. So the idea of being physically close is very intimidating and also a bit frightening to me." She wasn't sure where this was all coming from all of a sudden but she felt safe enough to be able to tell him without him taking it poorly. She made her way over to the bed to pull back the thick blanket and climb underneath it, settling against the pillows with a tint of pink still coloring her cheeks. "I'm sorry I know that's probably a bit odd for my age." @OriginalMeta

Marilis could sense the vulnerability in her words and it made him feel both protective and empathetic towards her. As she settled into the bed, he took a deep breath before speaking. "Astrid, there's nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, I should be the one apologizing for my lack of experience in this area." He admitted with a small chuckle, though the sadness in his eyes betrayed his words. "It's not that I haven't tried," he continued, his voice growing more serious. "But any woman I ever felt any interest in, they would always pull away as soon as they found out about my betrothal. They knew I was promised to the woman of prophecy, and so they didn't want to get involved with me in any way." He shrugged, the weight of the years of loneliness evident in his posture. "I eventually stopped trying to find love interests, and focused solely on my duties as a prince. But being with you, Astrid, it feels different. I don't know how to explain it, but I feel drawn to you in a way I've never felt before." He admitted, his gaze locked on hers as he spoke. "I understand that physical intimacy can be daunting, especially for someone who hasn't experienced it before. So please, don't feel embarrassed or ashamed. We can take things as slow as you need, and only do what you feel comfortable with." He reassured her with a warm smile, hoping to ease her fears and make her feel at ease. @KillahxKylie

Astrid turned to face him when he spoke, his words took her by such surprise. She had always assumed that anyone who was considered royalty, especially the crowned prince, would have his pick of any woman he so chose in the kingdom. Knowing that it was because of her before they had ever even met, seeing the sadness in his eyes, it made guilt sink in her stomach like a stone. She wanted to comfort him, wanted to take all of his sadness and loneliness that she had caused away. She knew that wasn't possible though, what was done was done and even creatures of magic knew time was something that could never be meddled with. His gaze was so intense yet also so warm as he spoke to her, and it made her feel so much better to know that she wasn't the only one who was feeling overwhelmed at the idea of physicality, even if the circumstances were less than favorable as to why. "Marilis I-" Her words caught in her throat for a moment before she worked up the nerve to speak again "I-I'm sorry. I had no idea I caused you such strife even from so far away." She hoped that he could hear the sincerity in her voice, see it in her eyes as she kept them on his own. "I feel so foolish. Ever since I found out that we were to be wed I've been thinking all these awful things about you, and how you must have had such a lush and lavish life full of everything you could have ever wanted.. I was wrong about you. I cannot apologize enough for my ill assumptions." @OriginalMeta

Marilis took a deep breath, trying to compose himself and push away the thoughts that were clawing at his mind. He looked at Astrid and saw the sincerity in her eyes, and for a moment he almost believed that he could forget about the prophecy and just be a normal person with her. But then the reality of his life hit him like a ton of bricks, and he was reminded of how much he had lost because of it. "I appreciate your apology, Astrid," Marilis said, his voice laced with sadness. "But it's not just about what you thought of me. It's about what my life has been like because of the prophecy." He looked away from her, unable to meet her eyes. "You have no idea what it's like to grow up knowing that you're destined for something, that you have no control over your own life. I was just a child when it was revealed that I was the child of prophecy, and from that moment on, everything was different. I was trained to be a ruler, to be a warrior, to be everything that was needed for me to fulfill my destiny. I had no say in it, no choice. And then, when I was old enough, I was told that I would be married to you, someone I had never even met, just because of the prophecy." He paused for a moment, his emotions threatening to overwhelm him. "And I hated you for it. I hated that someone who just happened to be born at the same time as me had the power to alter my life so drastically. I hated that I had no freedom to pursue anything, that my whole life all I was seen as was a child of prophecy. But now...now that you're in front of me, it's hard to hate you. Because I see that you're not just a pawn in some cosmic game, but a real person with real emotions and feelings. And I can't help but wonder if there's some unseen magic at play, drawing us together despite everything."

3:05 PM

He finally looked back at Astrid, and his eyes were filled with a mixture of sadness and longing. "But then I question if my feelings are real, or just another part of the prophecy. And it's a constant battle within me, between the person I was trained to be and the person I actually am. It's...it's not easy."

3:05 PM

@KillahxKylie

Astrid could do nothing but sit there propped up on her elbow to face him, watching all the different emotions he was working through, feeling the guilt inside her grow and grow until it threatened to well up and fall down her cheeks. She had had no idea that his life had been so hard, that he had been through so much. Astrid hadn't learned that she was the child the prophecy spoke of until just months ago. Of course her family and everyone else in her village knew and she was raised differently because of it, coveted and kept safe, but still she was allowed much more freedom than he had ever gotten a taste of. The idea of a mere child being put under that much pressure and at such a young age had those tears that were welled in her eyes finally spilling over but she quickly reached to wipe them away. "Marilis I'm so sorry I wish your life had been different, I wish it had been yours." She knew that it wasn't her fault, not truly, she had no control over when she was born and what the prophecy would foretell but she felt at fault just the same. She kept wiping her tears away as they fell not wanting him to feel any worse than he already did, she couldn't help it she had always been terrible at keeping her feelings inside and after having to do it for so long today already there was no way she could hold them back. "Isn't all love magic though?" She looked at him with questioning, of course what she felt for him couldn't be considered love yet but if that's what ended up happening between them, cosmic or not, would it truly be so bad? Is that how he felt? "I know that I don't fully understand because I was mostly protected from the truth for so long but.. I want you to try to be Marilis Ambrosia with me, nothing more, nothing less. The real you, I want us to see each other as people and not just pawns or titles. I want-. I want better for us than we think we can have." @OriginalMeta

Marilis listened to Astrid's words, feeling a mixture of emotions bubbling up inside of him. It was difficult for him to reconcile the idea that he had been raised with the sole purpose of fulfilling a prophecy, while Astrid had been able to live a life of relative freedom until she found out about the prophecy. He couldn't help but wonder if things would have been different if he had been given the same chance. As he watched her wipe away her tears, he couldn't help but feel a tug at his heartstrings. He had never seen anyone cry over him before, let alone someone who was supposed to be his betrothed. He found himself wanting to comfort her, to tell her that everything was okay, but he knew that wouldn't be true. When she spoke about love, he couldn't help but wonder if what he felt for her was real or just a byproduct of the prophecy. He had always been taught that the prophecy was the most important thing, and that everything else was just a means to an end. But as he looked into Astrid's eyes, he couldn't help but feel a connection to her that went beyond the prophecy. When she asked him to be Marilis Ambrosia with her, he couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over him. For once, he didn't have to worry about fulfilling the prophecy or living up to anyone's expectations. He could just be himself, flaws and all. "I...I don't know if I can be Marilis Ambrosia with you," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I've been so focused on fulfilling the prophecy for so long that I don't know who I am without it. But...I want to try. I want to see who I can be with you, without the weight of the prophecy hanging over us." He reached out a hand to gently brush away the tears on her cheek. "And...I don't know if what I feel for you is real or just a product of the prophecy, but...I want to find out. I want to see where this could lead, even if it means defying the prophecy." @KillahxKylie

She felt her stomach fill with butterflies when he came over to her all to brush the tears away from her cheeks. The knowledge that he was even willing to try to be himself with her meant so much, she could already feel the closeness she felt to him growing and even if he was right, even if it was just part of some prophetic telling, it felt good.. it felt right. "We.. we can't defy the prophecy. Not forever..." She let out a heavy sigh, as nice as it was to dream of not having such a weight on their shoulders it would always be there until they did what they needed to do to produce an heir. "It can wait though. It can definitely wait." She followed her heart and sat up in bed before getting back to her feet. She stood in front of her husband and looked up at him for a few long moments before she wrapped her arms around him in a hug. It was one of the only ways she truly knew how to comfort someone and she felt such a strong pull to comfort him after he opened up to her in such a vulnerable way. "Sleep with me Marilis? Please?" @OriginalMeta

Marilis couldn't believe the suddenness of her question, but he couldn't deny the urge he felt in his chest to be close to her, to feel her warmth and comfort. He returned her embrace, feeling the softness of her body against his and the weight of the responsibility they both carried dissipating, if only for a moment. He pulled back slightly, looking down at her with a mix of sadness and yearning in his eyes. "Astrid, I want nothing more than to be with you" Was she asking for him to lay with her or more? He knew that they had to be careful, especially with the threat of the prophecy looming over them. But he couldn't deny the growing feelings he had for her, and the desire to be close to her. "Let's just... lay down, okay?" he said, taking her hand and leading her back to the bed. He lay down next to her, facing her, and pulled her close. It felt so natural, so right, to hold her in his arms, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort and safety with her. As they lay there, Marilis couldn't help but wonder if their connection was part of the prophecy or if it was something more. He couldn't deny the feelings he had for her, but he also knew that they had to be careful not to let those feelings cloud their judgment. But for now, he would allow himself this moment of vulnerability and closeness with the woman who had been chosen to be his wife. He closed his eyes, holding her tight. @KillahxKylie

"Oh! Oh my gosh that's what I meant of course I'm so sorry I didn't mean to imply more.. I don't think that I'm ready for that yet." She felt her cheeks heat up knowing that he probably thought she was asking for way more than just to lay together and maybe find some comfort in being in each others embrace. It felt awkward at first, laying with him but when she let herself look at him and really see him all she felt was comfort. She felt safe and somehow like she was right where she was supposed to be. When he pulled her close she couldn't help but notice how warm he was. He was so comfortable too, his skin was soft and smelled so nice but at the same time she could feel his muscles and it made her feel safe. She knew that she could protect herself to an extent but having him here made her feel that much safer. They lay there just like that for a long while in silence before she spoke up, keeping her voice hushed to not disturb the peace they have managed to find in one another. "Marilis.. are you awake?" She had a question burning in the back of her throat and she didn't know if she would be brave enough to ask him again. @OriginalMeta

Marilis felt his cheeks flush as Astrid spoke, realizing that he may have misunderstood her intentions. He knew that he wasn't ready for anything more than just being there for her, to offer her comfort and safety. He couldn't help but feel a sense of relief that she wasn't expecting more from him. As they lay there in silence, Marilis couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. Being with Astrid, holding her close, made him feel like everything was going to be okay. He felt a sense of responsibility to protect her, and being here with her made him feel like he was fulfilling that duty. When Astrid spoke up, Marilis felt a sense of anticipation. He was curious to know what was on her mind, but also a bit nervous about what she might ask. "Yes, I'm awake," he whispered back, his voice barely audible. "What is it that you want to ask?" he asked gently, hoping that he could offer her some answers or comfort. @KillahxKylie

"Just.. I know that it's still far too early to really know but.. do you think that if.. if you did.." she felt herself getting flustered as she tried to spit the words out, she was so afraid she was going to make him uncomfortable with what she wanted so desperately to ask him, especially after everything he had said about not knowing if them feeling a connection at all was just the work of the prophecy. "Sorry I guess I'm a bit nervous." She took a deep breath still speaking just as softly as before. "Do you think that even if it wasn't for the prophecy that you could ever really love me?" She felt her heart beating so hard in her chest that I felt like it might explode as she stayed there pressed against him waiting for his answer. It mattered to her, if he would ever be able to accept his feelings if they were to somehow happen along this journey that they were forced into. @OriginalMeta

Marilis felt a mix of emotions as he heard Astrid's question. He was flattered that she would ask him such a thing, but he also knew that he couldn't give her a clear answer. The prophecy hung over their heads, and he couldn't shake the feeling that their connection might just be a result of it. He shifted slightly, pulling Astrid closer to him and resting his chin on top of her head. "Astrid, you know that I care for you deeply," he said softly, "but I can't promise you anything beyond that. I don't know what the future holds, and the prophecy complicates things. But I do know that I want to be here for you, and I want to see where this journey takes us." He paused, considering his words carefully before continuing. "I don't think it's impossible for me to love you, Astrid. But it's also not something that can be forced or rushed. Let's take things one step at a time, and see where our hearts lead us." He pressed a gentle kiss to the top of her head, hoping that his words would bring her some comfort. @KillahxKylie

She let him pull her closer, relieved that that was his reaction instead of him pulling away which was what she had feared. All of his words made perfect sense, how could either of them truly know what would happen. Nodding against his chest where her face was tucked she took a deep breath in and let it out. "I know. I.. I don't know what will happen either but.. if it does somehow some way happen I want you to know that I'll let it. Whether it he prophecy or not if I fall in love with you I'll let it happen." When he pressed that soft kiss to the top of her head she wished more than anything that this could have happened on its own somehow. That they could have just been two strangers who somehow met and realized they had more in common than they thought, that they could have spent time together and let their relationship naturally bud and blossom like the flowers in the springtime, instead it felt like they were torn from the earth too soon, arranged together and told to try to survive as long as they could. The thought made her hold onto him just a little bit tighter. There was no point in wondering what could have been, it would never be. All they could do now was try their best and see where the complicated road ahead would take them. With every minute that went by though she realized more and more than she hoped wherever it led they'd come out of it together. @OriginalMeta

Marilis listened intently as Astrid spoke, feeling his chest rise and fall with each word. She could feel his warmth radiating off of him, and the comforting weight of his arm draped around her. As he spoke of the unknown future, Marilis couldn't help but feel a sense of sadness wash over her. She wished they could have met under different circumstances, that they could have had a chance to slowly and naturally build their relationship instead of being thrust into this chaotic situation. Despite these thoughts, Marilis felt a sense of peace and contentment being held by Astrid. As he leaned in to press a soft kiss to the top of her head, she couldn't help but feel a flutter in her chest. The gesture was so small, but it sent a wave of warmth and tenderness through her. He felt a deep connection to Astrid, one that seemed to go beyond the prophecy that brought them together. When Marilis spoke, she could feel his chest rumble with his deep, steady voice. His touch was so gentle, yet firm, and it made her feel safe and protected. She spoke her heart, telling him that she would let love happen between them if it was meant to be, regardless of the prophecy or anything else that might try to stand in their way. "I appreciate that, Astrid," he said softly. "I don't know what the future holds for us, but I do know that I care about you deeply. And if we do fall in love, then I'll let it happen too." As she finished speaking, Marilis felt Astrid's arms tighten around her just a bit, as if he was holding her closer. She couldn't see his face, but she could feel the way his body reacted to her words. It was as if he was moved by her sincerity and vulnerability. The feeling was both exhilarating and terrifying, knowing that the emotions they were both experiencing could lead to something deeper and more intense. @KillahxKylie

"Marilis..." She started before her words seemed to disappear into thin air. She didn't know how to explain exactly what it was that she was feeling but she knew she felt it. This deep stirring of emotions inside of her. She knew then, in this small moment of peace they were sharing together that if they had met any other way she would have easily fallen for him. She could imagine the carefree life they could have had painting and reading and loving each other, only having a family when they were truly ready and not having it forced upon them. She picked up her head just enough that she could look at him, really look at him up close like this. His features were so strong but so much softer when he was relaxed like this. He was beautiful. She didn't really know what she was thinking, maybe she wasn't thinking at all, when she leaned in to press the softest of kisses to his lips. "We'll figure this out together." She said softly, tucking herself back under his chin, skin and eyes glowing softly, her stomach fluttering, cheeks rosy. She knew it was probably too soon but something in her craved this closeness with him. They were so much more alike than she ever would have known and in this moment it felt like they were the only two people in the world who understood each other. @OriginalMeta

Marilis could feel the warmth emanating from Astrid's body as she pressed herself closer, her heart beating fast with each passing moment. His body responded in kind, the heat radiating between them making it difficult to distinguish where one ended and the other began. It was almost as if they were one being, intertwined in a way that seemed almost supernatural. As she pulled back and looked into his eyes, he felt a shiver run down his spine. There was something in her gaze that he couldn't quite place, a depth of emotion that he had never seen before. He was at once both terrified and entranced, drawn to her like a moth to a flame. Then, before he could even react, she leaned in and pressed her lips softly against his. It was like a jolt of electricity shot through his entire body, sending his heart racing and his mind reeling. He wanted nothing more than to pull her closer, to deepen the kiss and explore the depths of her passion, but he knew that they had to be careful. For a moment, they simply stayed like that, wrapped up in each other's arms, savoring the warmth and comfort that only they could provide for one another. And in that moment, Marilis knew that they would make it through whatever trials lay ahead. They had each other, and that was all that mattered. @KillahxKylie

When they laid there after she kissed him she could feel his heart racing against her, marching the rapist rhythm of her own. She couldn't tell if it was a good thing or a bad thing, he hadn't said anything and it made her nervous. What if he hated it? Was she a bad kisser? She tried to calm herself down, she knew she was glowing, it was even more obvious in the dark and she didn't want to scare him with just how intense it could really get. He was so warm against her body and she couldn't help but crave him even closer, she'd never felt this for another being before, she could feel a different kind of heat pooling in her gut and she didn't understand what it meant only that it made her want to squirm the longer she sat with it. Finally she broke the silence, needing to hear his voice again in the quiet dark of the house where it seems the only sound anymore was of their racing hearts hammering against each other. "I'm.. I'm sorry if that was too much." @OriginalMeta

As she waited for his response, Marilis couldn't help but feel the weight of her vulnerability in the space between them. She had taken a chance by kissing him, and now she was waiting for his reaction, hoping that he wouldn't reject her. His silence made her nervous, but when he finally spoke, his voice was soft and gentle. "No, it's not too much," he said, and she could hear the smile in his voice. "It's just enough." Marilis let out a small breath of relief, feeling the tension that had been building in her shoulders release a little. She shifted slightly, curling herself even closer to him, and he responded by wrapping his arms around her and pulling her in tighter. In the warmth of his embrace, Marilis felt herself relax, her body melting into his. She could feel the steady rise and fall of his chest as he breathed, and the soft brush of his fingers against her skin as he traced patterns on her back. It was as if they were in their own little world, separate from the outside world and all its complications. In this moment, all that mattered was the two of them, and the connection they shared. As the minutes ticked by, Marilis felt herself growing drowsy, her eyelids growing heavy. @KillahxKylie

"Okay" she said whisper quiet when he said it was just enough, feeling the tension that had built up in her body melt away before she curled in closer to him, the way he held her bringing her so much comfort that she slowly stopped glowing until she looked like your every day average fae again. "Goodnight Marilis" she mumbled, the way he traced patterns on to her back quickly pulling her closer and closer to sleep. She could feel her eyes flutter shut, her breaths becoming more and more even as her body relaxed further into his. It was surprising to her but this was the most comfortable she had probably ever been. It wasn't much longer after that that Astrid had completely fallen asleep, still holding onto Marilis just as tightly as she had been when she was awake, as if even her sleeping form was afraid that he would slip away when she'd just only begin to scratch the surface of who he really was. @OriginalMeta

As Astrid murmured her goodnight, Marilis couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. He had never been so close to another being, let alone held someone like this. He continued tracing patterns on her back, relishing in the feeling of her warmth against him. He watched as her breathing slowed and her body relaxed, her grip on him never loosening. He couldn't help but feel a sense of protectiveness over her, as if it was his duty to keep her safe and comfortable. As she fell deeper into sleep, Marilis couldn't help but wonder what the future held for them. He knew he had feelings for her, strong feelings that he had never experienced before, but he didn't want to rush into anything. He wanted to take things slow and see where it would lead. For now, he focused on the present moment, enjoying the feeling of Astrid's body pressed against his, her soft breathing lulling him into a sense of peace he had never known before. He closed his eyes, allowing himself to drift off into a peaceful slumber, with Astrid still holding onto him tightly. @KillahxKylie

Astrid slept the entire night away peacefully just like that, wrapped up in each other and feeling hopeful for the future for the first time since she'd found out about the arrangement. When the sun began to stream through the windows she whined softly and pulled the blanket up higher to cover her face trying to get more sleep. It didn't take long for her to realize it was a lost cause though, she should have closed the shutters before they had gotten into bed, she knew she needed it to be dark to stay asleep. She laid there with him for awhile longer before slipping from his grasp to get dressed for the day, stripping off her nightgown and pulling on a dress while she assumed he was still asleep and wouldn't see her changing in the same room. She laced up the front of her dress and tied it before she made her way to the kitchen. Exploring what it had been stocked with more thoroughly she decided to make some fry cakes, eggs and fresh sausage. Once she had everything going she grabbed some oranges to squeeze into some fresh juice. It was their first morning together and after the night they shared she wanted to do something special for him. To make him feel important. As she continued cooking the events of the night ran over in her head, blushing when she remembered how she'd kissed him and the way she felt after. It distracted her so much so that she accidentally cut her finger when she went to cut the next orange and ended up yelping in pain. @OriginalMeta

Marilis stirred awake at the sound of Astrid's yelp, the sound bringing him out of his deep slumber. He sat up in bed and rubbed his eyes, stretching his arms and yawning as he looked around the room, trying to get his bearings. It didn't take long for him to remember where he was and what had happened the night before. He smiled to himself, feeling content and happy for the first time in a long while. He got out of bed, grabbing a pair of pants and a shirt to get dressed for the day. As he made his way to the kitchen, the smell of food wafted into his nose, making his mouth water. He walked in to find Astrid cooking up a storm. "Good morning," he said, making his way over to her. "Looks like you're quite the cook." He grabbed her injured hand and examined it carefully, making sure it wasn't too serious. "Are you okay?" he asked, concern etched on his face. "Let me take care of that for you." @KillahxKylie

"Good morning" she mumbled around where she was currently sucking her finger from the side "I was trying to be but apparently my knife skills aren't what I thought they were" She smiled softly when he took her hand to examine her finger, the cut wasn't too deep but it was still bleeding. "I'm okay it's not to terrible, it just hurts." Astrid was a bit of a baby when it came to being injured, her high sensitivity to different feelings made pain so much worse for her than others. "Thank you." She smiled when he offered to help her take care of the cut. "This is what I get for trying to make sure we had fresh juice" @OriginalMeta

Marilis chuckled softly at Astrid's comment about her knife skills. "Well, at least we have fresh juice now," he said with a smile. He carefully took her hand and examined the cut, making sure it wasn't too deep before grabbing a bandage and some antiseptic cream to clean the wound. "It's no problem, Astrid. I'll take care of it," he said reassuringly as he carefully applied the cream to her cut and then gently wrapped the bandage around her finger. "There, all better," he said with a smile, holding her hand in his for a moment longer before releasing it. He then turned to the stove to help her with breakfast, admiring the spread she had already prepared. "This looks amazing, Astrid. You really didn't have to do all this," he said sincerely, grateful for her thoughtfulness. @KillahxKylie

"Thank you" She said softly as he looked her over and grabbed some cream and a bandage for her. She tried not to wince when he put the cream on her cut but she couldn't help it, it hurt more than she wanted to admit. "I hope you like everything it's okay if you don't though I realize I don't actually know what kind of food you enjoy." She smiled a bit shyly over at him still remembering the night before and wondering if today would be just as pleasant. She wanted to take advantage of the short week that they had here together to hopefully become as close as possible. "The sausage just need a bit more time but everything else is ready.. OH! And I need to actually pour the juice into some cups" @OriginalMeta

Marilis would smile warmly at Astrid and nod in appreciation of her efforts in preparing breakfast. "I'm sure it'll be wonderful, thank you. And don't worry, I'm not too picky when it comes to food." He would then pause for a moment before adding, "Actually, speaking of food, I should let you know that there's a dinner tonight that my parents are hosting in honor of our union. Some high-ranking fae will be attending as well, so it's quite a big event. I hope you don't mind dressing up a bit for the occasion." He would look at her expectantly, hoping she would be excited about the upcoming dinner and the chance to meet some important fae. "It's an important event, but I promise it'll be fun," he reassured her. "And of course, we can spend the rest of the day together and enjoy each other's company." @KillahxKylie

Astrids eyes went a little wide at his mention of the dinner that they would be going to tonight, she hadn't assumed that such things would be happening so soon but thinking about it now she realized that was a silly assumption, of course there would be plenty to do right away when you're a newlywed royal couple. Royal she still wasn't used to thinking of herself in such a manner. "Oh um right yes of course that sounds great, I'm sure I have something here that's worthy of the occasion... I assume they're coming to try and start working on making things peaceful between our kind." She couldn't help but sigh heavily. It might not seem like it but it was a lot of pressure. "Do you think it'll really go okay? Will it be just us and them or will it be a large dinner with more people of the kingdom as well?" The more questions that popped into her head the more nervous she became about the whole ordeal. She wanted to make a good impression but she was also so fearful of being around this many humans. @OriginalMeta

Marilis nodded. "Yes, it's a diplomatic dinner to celebrate the union of our two races and work towards establishing peace. And as for the guest list, it will be a fairly large affair. Several high-ranking fae and humans will be in attendance, including your parents and his. But don't worry, you'll have plenty of support and guidance throughout the evening. Just be yourself and everything will go smoothly." She gave Astrid a reassuring smile before continuing. "I'm sure you'll look lovely, but if you need any assistance with your attire or anything else, please don't hesitate to ask. We're all here to support you and make this transition as smooth as possible." @KillahxKylie

"Just be myself.. got it." She nodded but she could only feel her anxiety growing more and more the more that she thought about what this night would mean, the importance that it held, and who would be there. She had only been in contact with his parents for the brief time yesterday when they ate dinner together and she had mostly stayed silent for the entire duration. She was nervous that they wouldn't feel the way about her that their son did. That they would simply judge her for her race and not give her a chance at anything more. "Well, I guess I better start looking for what to wear then." She took one more bite of her food before she took the plates and dishes to the sink to wash them, heading up the stairs to their bedroom when she was finished so that she could start going through her clothes. "Marilis" She called from where she was trying not to tear up "I don't know what I should wear." @OriginalMeta

Marilis was taken aback by Astrid's sudden outburst, but he quickly composed himself and approached her with a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Hey, it's okay," he said gently. "We'll figure something out. Let's start by going through your wardrobe together and finding something that makes you feel confident and beautiful." He led her back to their bedroom and pulled open her closet, carefully scanning through her dresses and blouses. "What about this one?" he asked, holding up a soft, flowy lavender dress. "It'll bring out the color of your eyes." As he helped her change into the dress and accessorize with some delicate jewelry, he couldn't help but feel a sense of protectiveness over her. He knew how much pressure she was under, being the first fae to marry into the royal family, and he wanted to do everything he could to ease her worries. @KillahxKylie

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry I'm so embarrassed I just know how important this is and I don't want to make a fool of myself" She sniffled and wiped the tears that had managed to sneak down her cheeks away before following Marilis back to the closet to go through the options with him. "That one is pretty." She smiled softly and nodded when he said it would bring out the color of her eyes, the eyes she would have to be careful to control during this dinner. Her cheeks were rosy the entire time that he was helping her into the dress, it was a bit awkward being so exposed in front of him no matter how brief it was but when she saw herself in the mirror once they were done she couldn't help but give her husband a soft smile. "Thank you.. I feel much better and you picked a beautiful dress for me." She hesitated before speaking again. "Do you think your parents will like me?" @OriginalMeta

Marilis couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for his wife as he watched her struggle with her emotions. He wanted to reassure her that everything would be alright, but he knew that it was easier said than done. "It's okay, Astrid. You don't have to apologize," he said softly, giving her a gentle smile. "I understand how you feel, but trust me, you'll do just fine tonight." As they went through her wardrobe, Marilis couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as he helped her into the dress. She looked stunning, and he was certain that his parents would be impressed. "You look beautiful," he said with a smile, admiring her in the mirror. "And as for my parents, they will love you. You have nothing to worry about." He took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. "Just be yourself and everything will be fine. I promise." @KillahxKylie

"I'm so afraid that they won't approve of me and it'll ruin everything." She let out a heavy sigh and shook her head. "I swear I'll be more put together tonight than I have been so far, I want to make a good impression, I'm not sure I'll be able to if I'm simply myself." She squeezed his hand back briefly before she let go and opted to hug him instead, normally she would have hesitated but after the night they shared she assumed it would be okay. "Marilis can I ask you something? About last night.. did I make you uncomfortable by kissing you?" @OriginalMeta

Marilis looked at her with a small smile and shook his head. "No, not at all. It was a pleasant surprise actually." He ran his hand through his hair and chuckled. "I must admit, I wasn't expecting it but I certainly didn't mind it." He placed his hands on her shoulders and gave her a reassuring squeeze. "Astrid, I want you to be yourself tonight. You don't have to put on an act or pretend to be someone you're not. My parents will see how wonderful you are just by being yourself." He leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead before stepping back. "Now, let's go downstairs and enjoy the rest of our day before the dinner tonight." @KillahxKylie

She managed to smile a bit at that, he looked almost shy when he ran his hand through his hair the way he did. She liked seeing this side of him, with every passing minute she was more and more happy to call him her husband, especially with how much he was supporting her. "I want to be I'm just afraid, I mean my life was so much more simple than what you and your family are accustomed to.. not to mention how much it seemed to scare you seeing the way my eyes and skin can glow. I mean I can't imagine if that were to happen in front of a large crowd of humans.." she shuddered a little at the thought, her gaze drifting down towards the ground before his kiss to her forehead made her blush. "I was thinking maybe we could go for a nice walk or something? I haven't really seen any of the grounds since I arrived aside from the way in and our walk here." @OriginalMeta

Marilis smiled softly as he listened to Astrid speak. He could tell that she was nervous about the upcoming dinner, but he also knew that she was strong enough to handle whatever challenges may arise. He reached out and took her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I know it's a lot to take in, but you don't have to be anyone other than yourself," he said reassuringly. "My parents will see the same wonderful person that I see when I look at you." He could see the fear in her eyes as she spoke about the possibility of her powers manifesting in front of a large crowd of humans. He knew that it was a legitimate concern, but he also knew that they would find a way to deal with it if it happened. When Astrid suggested that they go for a walk, Marilis nodded in agreement. "That sounds lovely," he said, smiling at her. "I'll show you around the grounds, and we can talk about anything that's on your mind." He took her hand and led her out of the house and into the gardens. The sun was starting to set, casting a warm glow over the landscape. They walked in comfortable silence for a few minutes before Marilis spoke up. "Astrid, I want you to know that I don't regret what happened last night," he said, looking at her with a soft expression. "I know we weren't planning on it, but it felt right in the moment. I just wanted to make sure that you're comfortable with everything that happened." @KillahxKylie

Astrid followed Marilis outside thankful that he was willing to walk with her, even if it wasn't the environment she was used to being outside was always soothing for her mind, especially when it was racing like this. She was enjoying the comfortable silence as they walked through the gardens and she couldn't help but blush when she heard what he was bringing up. "I'm okay with it.. if I'm being honest I almost went even further but I was too afraid to." She reached for his hand, lacing their fingers together as they continued to walk. "I'm not in any rush of course but it did feel right.. being with you feels right in general which I wasn't expecting. I feel safe with you Marilis Ambrosia, and I know you'll keep me safe tonight as well should anything go wrong." @OriginalMeta

Marilis felt a mixture of emotions as Astrid spoke, her words resonating deeply within him. He couldn't deny the strong connection he felt with her, the way she made his heart race and his thoughts swirl. But amidst the excitement and affection, doubts lingered in the back of his mind. When Astrid mentioned her desire for more last night, Marilis couldn't help but question his own feelings. Was his attraction to her genuine, or was it merely a product of the prophecy, an obligation to fulfill? He couldn't deny the undeniable pull he felt towards her, but he wondered if it was born out of his own desires or driven by external forces. As they walked hand in hand, Marilis glanced at Astrid, a sense of protectiveness washing over him. The thought of his parents treating her poorly troubled him. He knew their conservative views and the rigid expectations they held for him as the heir to the throne. What if they couldn't see past Astrid's fae heritage and judged her unfairly? Deep down, Marilis wanted his parents to accept Astrid for who she was, to see the kindness and strength that he saw in her. But the fear of disappointment gnawed at him. He didn't want Astrid to be hurt or feel unwelcome in his world. Lost in his thoughts, Marilis realized he had been silent for a while. He squeezed Astrid's hand gently, offering her a reassuring smile. "Astrid, I can't predict how my parents will react. They have certain expectations, and I know it might be challenging for them to embrace our union fully. But please know this, my feelings for you are real, and I will always stand by your side." He paused, searching for the right words to express his inner turmoil. "I sometimes question whether my attraction to you is purely my own or influenced by the prophecy. But regardless of the answer, what matters is that we forge our own path and create a love that is authentic and true." Marilis's gaze met Astrid's, filled with determination. "Let's face whatever challenges come our w

9:20 AM

ay together, Astrid. And if my parents fail to see the extraordinary person you are, I will be there to protect and defend you. You deserve nothing less than love and acceptance." @KillahxKylie

Astrid could tell that something was troubling Marilis but she wasn't quite sure of what. There were so many things that seemed to be happening so fast and she wondered if he was just feeling as overwhelmed as she was. At least for him this was already his home, soon to be his kingdom and he didn't have to fear for his own king not accepting him. The idea that his parents may reject her had her wanting to run for the forest as fast as her legs would take her. She didn't run though she stayed there holding his hand and they walked and tried to think of something to say, the silence was still a bit uncomfortable and she felt the need to fill it. Before she could speak though he beat her to it. He reaffirmed what she had though, that he wasn't completely sure how his parents would react. Of course they were cordial enough during the actual ceremony but now that she was here who knew how they would treat her going forward. After all she was certain they couldn't have been thrilled the prophecy chose their son to marry a fae woman. "I don't want to cause turmoil between you and your family Marilis..." She felt herself growing sad at the thought that she may end up causing a rift between them that didn't exist before her. "I will stand by your side too as long as you will have me but I also wouldn't blame you if you ever wanted me to leave." The part about his attraction to her stung a little, she couldn't be sure if it was fate trying to pull them together either or if it was just a genuine feeling but she wished the only part of it that mattered was that they both felt it. She let out a small sigh and nodded. "I don't know either but I'm just trying to focus on the fact that I do feel it. If I try to figure out why I think I'll go mad." She squeezed his hand again when he said that he would always be there to protect and defend her and had the sinking feeling that he would end up having to prove his word later this evening. @OriginalMeta

Marilis listened attentively to Astrid's words, his heart aching at the sadness he detected in her voice. He understood her concerns and fears, and he wished he could erase them entirely. But he knew he couldn't control his parents' reactions or the circumstances that brought them together. All he could do was offer his unwavering support and love. Gently, Marilis turned towards Astrid, his eyes filled with sincerity. "Astrid, you must understand that you are not causing turmoil between my family and me. It is the circumstances and the expectations placed upon us that may create challenges. But I want you to know that I chose you willingly, and I will never regret that decision. Your presence in my life brings me joy and a sense of purpose." He squeezed her hand firmly, his gaze filled with determination. "I want you to stay by my side, Astrid. I am fully aware of the potential difficulties we may face, but I will not let anything or anyone come between us. Our love is worth fighting for, and I will do whatever it takes to protect you and our relationship." Marilis took a deep breath, trying to ease the tension that lingered between them. "As for the nature of our attraction, let us not dwell on it too much. Love is a complex thing, and trying to decipher its origins can be maddening. What truly matters is that we share a deep connection and that we choose to embrace it. Fate or not, I am here with you, and I will cherish every moment we have together." He leaned in and planted a tender kiss on Astrid's forehead, hoping to convey his devotion and reassurance through the simple gesture. "Tonight may be challenging, but we will face it together. And no matter the outcome, know that my love for you will remain unwavering." Marilis continued their walk, his grip on Astrid's hand tight and resolute. With each step, he silently promised to protect her, to prove his commitment, and to create a future where they could be together without fear or doubts. (edited)

10:21 AM

@KillahxKylie

"Your love for me." She smiled softly to herself as they continued to walk did he really feel such a strong thing for her so soon? Had he even meant to phrase it that way? Sure they had been talking about their feelings and the possibility of actually falling for each other but there was no way he felt it so soon right? She squeezed his hand back with just as much conviction, no matter what happened she believed that he wouldn't abandon her because of it and that was all she really needed. Eventually enough time had passed that she wondered if they should be preparing for the night, she had gotten dressed already but her hair was nowhere near ready for something as important as tonight was going to be. "I think we should go back now, I still need to finish getting ready. I want to look my best for tonight." She smiled over at him, he was so dashingly handsome and she wanted to look like she was fit to be standing by his side tonight. @OriginalMeta

Marilis felt a mix of surprise and warmth when he heard Astrid mention his love for her. Did he really express such a strong sentiment so casually? It caught him off guard, yet at the same time, it felt so natural. His heart skipped a beat as he pondered the depth of his emotions. As they continued their walk, Marilis couldn't help but question the authenticity of his feelings. Were they genuine or merely a product of the prophecy that brought them together? He wanted to believe that it was the former, that his growing affection for Astrid stemmed from a genuine connection. But doubt lingered in the back of his mind, casting a shadow over his heart. The hate he had harbored for his forced upbringing and the constraints of his royal duties seemed to fade into insignificance when he was with Astrid. Her presence brought lightness to his spirit, a sense of freedom he had never experienced before. It made him question whether his feelings for her were his own, untainted by the prophecy, or if they were simply a byproduct of their fated union. However, as he looked into Astrid's eyes and felt the sincerity of her grip on his hand, Marilis couldn't deny the connection they shared. There was something genuine and profound between them, something that surpassed any external forces that may have brought them together. He could feel it in the way his heart raced whenever she smiled, in the way her presence brought him comfort and peace. He nodded in agreement as Astrid mentioned they should return and prepare for the evening. He couldn't help but admire her determination to look her best for the important occasion. Marilis, too, wanted to present himself in a way that would make his parents proud and demonstrate his commitment to their union. "You're already breathtakingly beautiful, Astrid," he said, a soft smile gracing his lips. "But I understand your desire to prepare for tonight. I will accompany you and make sure everything is in order. Together, we will face this

7:38 AM

evening with grace and strength." As they made their way back, Marilis couldn't help but reflect on his emotions once more. He yearned for clarity, for a sense of certainty about his feelings. But in that moment, he knew he couldn't let doubts overshadow the present. He needed to trust in the connection he felt with Astrid and allow their love to grow organically, regardless of the origins or implications of their union. Deep down, he hoped that their love was true, that it would withstand any obstacles that lay ahead. And as they returned, hand in hand, Marilis silently vowed to protect their bond, to cherish Astrid, and to navigate the uncertainties of their intertwined destinies with unwavering devotion. @KillahxKylie

When they finally made their way back to their temporary home astrid tried to relax as she made her way into the bedroom to begin getting ready for the night. She knew that she needed to look and act her absolute best to that not only did she keep herself out of some danger but so that she didn't embarrass her husband. They were destined to be together, they always had been, but she still didn't want to let him down. She made herself up the best she could, doing her hair in a mix of her typical loose waves and adding in a couple of different braids that her mother had taught her to do. She straightened out her dress and put on some makeup and an assortment of different jewels that were left there for her by assumedly his family before they had moved in. When she finally felt like she was ready and looked presentable enough she went to find Marilis in the living room. "How do I look?" She asked timidly as she did a small spin in the middle of the floor. "I wasn't sure if the braids would be okay or not? They're a fae tradition for fancier occasions but.. Well I don't really know traditional human attire for events like this." It was so foreign to her to doubt herself like this. Of course most people around her age had some doubts in themselves sometimes but she never knew what it felt like to doubt her every move this way. She stood there waiting for his answer anxiously chewing on her lip. @OriginalMeta

Marilis watched Astrid go into the bedroom to get ready, admiring the grace and elegance she exuded with every step. He couldn't help but feel a mix of pride and concern for her. He knew how important this night was for both of them, and he understood the pressure she felt to make a good impression. When she finally emerged from the bedroom, Marilis was taken aback by her beauty. She looked absolutely stunning with her hair styled in a combination of loose waves and intricate braids, complemented by the jewels that adorned her. He couldn't find the right words to express just how breathtaking she was. "You look absolutely enchanting, Astrid," he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "The braids are perfect, they suit you beautifully. You have nothing to worry about; you will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on everyone." As he watched her anxiously chew on her lip, Marilis couldn't help but feel a rush of affection for her. He wanted to dispel any doubts or insecurities she had and reassure her of his unwavering support. He walked over to her and gently took her hands in his. "You are everything I could ever dream of, Astrid," he said softly. "You bring light to my life, and I am honored to have you by my side. Tonight, let us stand together, be ourselves, and show them the love and unity that we share." He leaned in and placed a tender kiss on her forehead, hoping to convey all the love and reassurance he felt in that simple gesture. Marilis knew that this night was not just about impressing his parents or the high-ranking fae; it was about affirming their commitment to each other and proving that their love was genuine. "You are my heart, Astrid, and I believe in us," he said, looking into her eyes with unwavering sincerity. "No matter what happens tonight, I know that I want to be with you, and I am proud to call you my wife." With that, Marilis hoped he had managed to ease some of her anxiety and uncertainty. He knew that the road ahead mi

11:52 AM

ght be challenging, but he was ready to face it together with Astrid, knowing that their love would guide them through any obstacles that came their way. @KillahxKylie

((

hey there @OriginalMeta , your RP partner for this RP has left the server. Would you like to keep it open to find another partner or could we archive it? All archived roleplays are eventually uploaded onto http://rphq.me/ and can be viewed there. If you wish to archive this roleplay, you can request this with the archiverequest command in #channel . If you want to keep this open to find another RP partner please can you respond to this message and ping me within 14 days, otherwise the channel may be archived. ))