The fact that Spencer quickly disagreed as well had her feeling better about dejecting it, but of course he was also quick to agree on it as well. But they both knew her points were valid. Having Spencer follow her everywhere would definitely scare off whoever threatened her. And they needed to catch them before they actually attempted it or worse, got to her family or Rian. Shaking the thoughts away her eyes darted between the boys, "Why do I feel like this is the first time in forever that you two actually agree on something?" She hummed, trying to make the matters light. But failing.

At the mention of going to town, she tensed immediately thinking of all the ways someone could possibly try to kill her. "I hope your right Rian. Im trusting you, and Spencer on this because quite frankly my family and I's life depends on you. I have to trust you both." She murmured, pushing her hair back again. "But yes as unpleasant as that sounds Spencer it's a good idea. Trust me when I say the last thing I want to do is go wedding dress hunting- No offense Rian nothing to do with you. But shopping was never..my style. But to protect my family, I'll do whatever it takes." Nodding at both boys she moved toward the door again, "Im sorry for dragging you both into this. I know now isn't a good time- or rather ever to deal with something of this nature. But I want you to know I appreciate protecting my family. They are all I have left." She hummed before slipping out the door to get ready for her departure to town.

It wasn't long that she found herself back into her room, clenching and unclenching her fist as she waited for the girls to come back with another black dress. Apparently the one she wore wasn't meant for her to be seen in public, she needed something much fancier. It bothered her all the same, especially when they informed her of her personal tailor for her evening gowns like this. Curtesy of Rian. They returned moments later, A black gown in tow. They quickly began dressing her, fixing her hair back into a slicked bun- humming as they moved along.

Once completed, they left her alone with the promise to keep her departure a secret amongst them- besides the council and others would find out about it soon enough when the rumors began to spread. Sitting in the chair at the vanity, she pushed her nerves back before making her way out of her room and into the hallways. It was now or never. Tate deciding to wait for him in the main entrance where other guards stood and watched.

Again, both brother’s exchanged a look with one another when Tate brought to their attention that they were actually agreeing on something. However, they both viewed it very differently; Rian thought it might be the slow start to rebuilding their relationship, and Spencer despised having anything to do with the greater good that involved Rian. “Because it is for the first time in forever- and it’ll be the last.” Spencer stated resentfully, whereas Rian simply responded with a sigh. They both knew Tate was putting a lot of trust into both of them in terms of both her, and her family’s survival. It was actually vital that the two continue to work together willingly… but how long would that last? How long before one sparks the other enough to divide them more so than before? The only ones capable of bringing out the worst in the Iverson brothers were each other, but just maybe, having someone else’s life depend on their unity would ensure that they would cooperate. But that was not something that could exactly be promised… by either.

“Don’t apologize for something out of your control, Tate. Anytime is a good time to help those that need it, and today, that’s you and your family.” Rian responded, but he thought about the moment they had last night; they were in this together. She was willing to be at his side when he needed her, and Rian was more than willing to be at hers when she needed him. And as Tate left, it took only a few seconds before Spencer began to waltz his way towards the door. “Spen, this changes things.” Rian said, his brother halting mid-step at the door. “I need you at the funeral tomorrow.” The King continued, watching as Spencer went rigid.

“She needs me at the funeral, I’m not doing any of this for you, so nothing has changed,” Spencer stated, turning his head enough to the side to glare at his elder brother, “Nothing will change the past, which means nothing will resolve the hate I have for you Rian. Nothing.” The prince finished, slamming the door behind him as he went the opposite direction towards his own chambers. His blood was bubbling; he hated this situation, he hated his brother, he hated that he was willing to attend the funeral to ensure he didn’t have to deal with another death. In his rage though he managed to enter his chambers and dress accordingly rather quickly; he may be angry, but he wouldn’t be caught looking lowly in public… he still had various shades of his reputation to upkeep. A light brown peacoat-esque jacket went over his lighter blue linen shirt- he didn’t want to be cold the entire time they were in town after all. The prince fixed his sheath belt around his waist; his sword in tow. It was followed by him equipping his thigh sheaths on as well to hold a dual pair of blades he’s had since he was seven- Spencer considered them lucky.

Spencer also supplied himself with his own money- he would reimburse himself from Rian’s pockets later. And with that, the prince headed down to briefly speak with a knight he’s known his entire life to be the one to send to the residence of Tate’s family. It was a knight who pledged his loyalty solely to Spencer for having saved his life on a battlefield, and one that was too honorable to be bribed or influenced by threat- so to Spencer, the man he was sending was one of the few fit for the task. And when that was finished, Spencer exited out the main doors to begin preparing his and Tate’s horses, only to see the well dressed woman already waiting outside. His gaze lingered on her for a moment before he began to simultaneously speak and walk towards the palace stables. “Hope you can handle your own horse.” Spencer smirked as they walked, taking only a few moments before a few stablehands ahead began to open the vast stable doors.

“Ready and fetch Nightshade for me,” Spencer ordered to the younger boy that first approached the pair, “and have a horse fit for domestic purposes be brought out to the future Queen.” Spencer added, the boy nodding profusely before jogging back towards his peers. The prince glanced in Tate’s direction next. “Most of the horses we have are strictly trained and bred to serve in our cavalry units, mine is no different… but he enjoys domestic rides on occasion.” Spencer smiled in thought of his just as equally moody steed. In a matter of moments, a behemoth sized, midnight black flossy coated percheron was being walked out of the stables in Spencer’s direction; followed by another stablehand leading out a chestnut brown coated friesian mare for Tate.

The prince took only a few seconds to swiftly seat himself atop his horse’s saddle, lovingly stroking his steed’s mane before glancing to Tate. “I’d say we could race… but that’s too childish of a thing for a future Queen to take part in, right?” Spencer smirked, trying to not-so-subtly bait Tate into racing into town. Spencer had to have something fun to do if he was to ensure dress shopping after all, so why not try?

But even standing there outside Tate felt out of the place there, awkward. She was only standing there a few moments before she spotted Spencer walking her way- his signature smirk slowly creeping onto his face as he made it to her. "I can handle a horse just fine. You must have forgotten I am not like these other ladies of the court." It was meant to be a tease, but with all things considered it came out more of a mumble. But she followed Spencer quietly, keeping a short distance between them but also not quite touching either.

The stable was like the castle, Grand and exquisite. Spencer's comment of her being future Queen another reminder of who she was. Even as the stable boys passed their eyes over over- checking to see just how noble she was. And finding just another regular girl instead of some high maintenance princess they smiled to themselves before going back to chores. But when those horse came out, the stable hoy barely able to contain the black beauty- she smiled. For the first time she actually smiled genuinely, petting the chestnut brown horse that was brought to her already saddled and ready.

"Gorgeous" She hummed, patting the horses neck before she mounted her own horse- throwing daggers in her eyes toward Spencer. "Again, Im not prissy. Bet I can beat you." She mused before taking off without warning- a light kick to the mares side to get her going.

//short again- Its early for me x.x//

(All good- sorry for clunky quality on this one though, I'm so tired lol)

Having only barely caught the mumble that fell from Tate’s lips, the prince stifled a chuckle. It was certainly different to not have a more dainty damsel in the court, as those breeds of women certainly frequented the palace ground in the spring to well into the early fall. Of course; they were mostly there to attempt to get smitten with the heir so perhaps one day they could ascend to being the Kingdom’s Queen- their attempts being futile though, obviously. Seems as how watching any kind of flirting go right over Rians head was both deeply entertaining, and embarrassing. If it weren't for Rian’s arrangement, Spencer was confident that his elder brother would have never actually taken on an adequate wife. This year though, the Kingdom would have a Queen. It wouldn’t stop a few barely noble women attempting to at least be Tate’s ladies in waiting. Everyone wanted a place in the court, even if their place was seemingly below their worth.

The prince did watch the beaming smile that etched its way onto Tate’s features as she stroked her mare’s neck. He decidedly chose that was the horse to gift to Tate to be her royal equine, but that would be later. Much later. The beast Spencer sat upon stomped its front leg impatiently, “Bet you can’t.” Spencer threw back, his heels tapping the horse’s side before the horse lurched forward into a gallop. The pair of horses were practically thundering down the path; the prince taking pleasure in the world moving by so quickly, and the rush of chilled air against him. But as they neared the more populated area of the capital, and the race was cutting close, everything in Spencer wanted to firmly establish his win. He’s a highly competitive fellow after all, even if he had to take a cheap shot to secure his victory… but today wasn’t about him. It was as if Nightshade read his rider’s body language fluently enough to slow his pace- just a little. Neither male liked it, but Spencer was trying to do something nice. Without Tate knowing though, of course.

The horses had already entered the capital’s main square, various people quickly shuffling themselves and their things out of the way of the horses. It wasn’t until a large, slowly moving cart ahead of them earned Spencer to pull back on his reins, Nightshade heeding to the halt. The entire place was thick with people; merchants and consumers alike. It was the capital of course, so most of the people here were of the higher class, with merchants selling things they believed would attract someone with a deep pocket. Spencer ran a hand through his tousled dirty blond locks to keep them from curtaining his forehead to heavily, his eyes then moving to Tate. “Congrats on the win,” he uttered, as if truly bitter about it, “it’ll be easier for us to have the horses taken to the community stable so we can travel the area on foot.” The prince explained- or more so told Tate what the plan would be. Spencer dismounted from his steed, landing with a slight thud from the higher drop. He figured Tate was the kind of woman to take offense to him offering her his hand to be helped down, so the prince didn’t bother. Whistling over to a younger boy dressed in tattered clothing -who was practically begging most passerby’s whether he could do any work for them-, the boy was quick to heed to Spencer’s call. “What’s your name?” Spencer asked, quirking a brow as he looked down on the moppy haired ginger.

“Avel, sir. Can I shine your shoes for you? Or tend to your and Your Lady’s horses?” The young boy asked, near desperately.

“Young Avel, I have a very important task for you, are you up for it?” Spencer asked, the boy nodding in response. “Good. You will take these two horses to the stable over there, and when myself and the Lady return to this very spot, you will bring the horses back out for us, understand?” Spencer explained, the boy nodding once more before Spencer lowered to one knee. “You’ll have half payment now, and half when I return- and don’t go around showing off your amount of coin, yeah?” Spencer quietly told the boy as he had reached into a pouch on his belt and produced a small handful of golden coins to pass to Avel- the boy’s eyes widening as he took it. “Sh.” Was the last thing Spencer said, offering the boy a wink before rising and allowing the boy to do the work he was paid to do.

The blond did watch the boy for just another moment though- genuinely impressed that he was managing to keep a hold of not just one large horse, but two. Spencer naturally had more of an affinity with children though, not that it was common knowledge, considering Spencer’s generally apathetic persona. “Come on My Lady,” Spencer finally spoke in Tate’s direction, smirking at the title, “let’s go dress shopping.” His tone was filled with a false sense of enthusiasm, but this was any real man’s nightmare, and Spencer was no exception.

Oh gosh, Spencer is a real ladies man xD Even though he acts like he doesn't care xP And that part with the little boy; swooning over it <3\

Tate loved the rushing feeling of the air whipping around her. Thanking the lord that she had pulled her hair back, because surely by the time they reached the town square her hair would be a large poof. Earning the win, or so she thought- it held the smile that she never left when the horse came out. "Told you. Im not your regular lady." She mused, slowing down her own gait when they entered the town- the watchful eyes of others not going unnoticed. Surprise, and shock written on some faces while other hide their emotions well. Seeing Spencer unmount his horse she did the same- holding onto the reigns when she hit the ground. "Good girl." She hummed, petting the horse briefly until the boy was called over.

She watched the interaction with raised brows, resisting the urge to tilt her head. The prince good with kids? Who would have thought. Maybe they appealed to his more childish nature but then again, it wasn't childish to have fun and that's exactly what she felt racing him down the hills and into town. She scowled when he stood, calling her what everyone has always seemed to these days, "Lets go your highness." She retorted back following after him towards one of the many shops.

Tate's eyes took in everything, all the colors and different dresses already lined out. None of them appropriate for a royal wedding as the seamstress stated when they walked into the tented area and asked what they were here for. When they noticed it was the future Queen they were to find something for it was as if a switch flipped. The fake personality showing through as they moved her towards a platform- practically shoving her on-top of it as they began to measure her. Tate wanted to protest, say she could find something already tailored but it wasn't flying by with the woman who was so eager to help her out. Tate also knew better then to tell Spencer to go away- especially with the new threat against her life.

An hour into the fitting and Tate was beyond ready to get away from the handsy lady. Annoyance written all over her face as the woman yet again fixed the neckline of the dress to make it more dipped. Yet still conservative for a new Queen. Overall the dress was completely made of silk- the white more of a champagne tone to it then white. The sleeves reaching her wrist and ending with a pointed tip. It was a gorgeous gown, one Tate would have chosen no matter who she was marrying- if she would born a higher class anyway. "Do you like it my lady?" The gray haired woman asked stepping back finally to admire her work. Tate was quick to nod, both because it was perfect and because she was ready to go. Her feet aching from standing for such a long period of time. Clapping her hands, the seamstress moved the dress to a safer place- "The dress is on us. Please if there is anything else- Let us know and we will be glad to help." But already Tate didn't like that idea- having someone to owe so she quickly shook her head. "No. No. We are playing."

//Hope you feel better :///

(Just needed a nap lol. And I knowww <3 But shh, he’ll deny any claim he’s kind or a gentleman XD)

Spencer gave a dramatized roll of his eyes to Tate’s musing, still keeping the facade that he was being a more or less graceful loser. It was worth the smile though. Just a short time ago she had been distraught with the threat on her life and the safety of her family. But Spencer knew best that there was a world beyond the palace that fostered freedom and fun; he felt like Tate was someone that could appreciate that. Although as they began walking, and she quipped by using his own title against him, the blond chuckled with a light shake of his head.

Spencer didn’t understand the appeal of drowning oneself in vibrant, flashy clothing. He was prideful about his appearance- but not enough to constantly put up with tailors for his every piece of attire. Spencer mostly stayed silent- allowing Tate to speak and look around while he stood off to the side, attempting not to die of boredom. He was able to draw some entertainment from Tate’s reluctance as the seamstress worked- the prince going so far as to chuckle a few times at her expense. It was probably just as amusing to watch him try to stand still though, which was impossible for the prince. Shifting on his feet, tapping the hilt of his sword, lightly pacing- it was like staying still would literally be the death of him.

Spencer did start to pay more attention to the dress that was both complementing and modest to Tate’s entire physique- he may not know clothes and fashion much, but he knew what a beautiful dress looked like when he saw one. He could imagine her golden, curlier locks falling perfectly around her to only further add to the dresses complementary design- not that he should be imagining such a thing though. When it came to the matter of paying, Spencer stepped forward to the seamstress and offered a quick smile before dropping several well earned coins into her hands. “Don’t spend it all in one place, madame.” The prince teased, turning to Tate and nodding for her to follow him back out. “I’m an impulse shopper with a lot of money- so let's have some fun, shall we?” Spencer smirked to Tate, though making clear that he was very much not done with their outing.

Spencer had begun leading the way through a thicker crowd along a street with various vendors crowding along the sides- and the sea of people only getting tighter. Eventually -as a good personal guard would- Spencer decided it was safer for him to take Tate by the hand to further weave them through the crowd. There were many vendors with blatantly cheap holy relics shouting at anyone they could to come flood to their tables, foods -some questionable-, various services, and so much more. Finally, there was a stand that caught Spencer’s attention, and one that wasn’t being clogged by numerous patrons. Continuing to pull Tate along, he let go when they made it to the smaller stand, his arms waving as if to present it to her. “Jewelry!” He exclaimed. “Girls like jewelry, don’t they? Maybe not you per say, but-” Spencer stopped his thoughts halfway to raise a finger to the merchant that had attempted to speak over him, before the prince reached out to grab a rose gold and diamond studded necklace; holding it up to Tate. “I think it would go nicely with your dress… care to model it first? I can clasp it for you, and you can gauge whether it's fitting for you in the mirror.” Spencer added, gesturing towards the body mirror propped up beside the stand. “If you like it, consider it a wedding present.” He passively shrugged, as if he didn’t really care whether she liked it or not.

Got an Ol gal Blushing xP//

Tate watched as they seamstress trued to give it back, but Spencer already half way out the door quickly dropped the subject and watched as the two walked out. She was looking around when he spoke up again, earning her attention fully when he grabbed her hand and started to lead her away and into the crowds of people. In all honesty Tate had never held hands with anyone, the act feeling much more personal as they wove through the crowds of people. Some cursing behind them but seeing as it was the Prince apologizing immediately was their best hope. But Spencer ignored them only stopped when they reached a booth filled with the most sparkling jewelry she had ever seen.

Spencer of course picking up the one piece she had snagged her eye on the moment they walked up to it. She raised her brows, both confused he was offering to place it on her and the fact that he wanted to gift it to her. Did he hit his head? "I-I suppose so." She hummed, waiting for him to clasp the necklace onto her. His compliment or what seemed to be one making her blush as the jewelry was placed onto her and settled onto her neck. But he was right, It was like it was crafted just for her.

"It's gorgeous.." She murmured, looking at herself in the mirror that was sat on the table. "A-Are you sure? Im sure the dress is enough Spencer.." Because to Tate spending all this money meant she owed something. At least to her. Nothing was free in the world, a lesson that Tate learned early on.

(Lmaooo XD)

Personally, Spencer didn’t even think twice about grabbing Tate’s hand; he just did it. The same way he grabs her wrist when he wants her to stay for something. But Spencer is very direct, most of the time- if he wants something, most likely he’ll air out his desire. Besides, Tate didn’t directly tell him not to, nor did she act as if she loathed his more physical approach with guiding her. He didn’t understand the confusion that blanketed her features. But he was also trying to teach her that it's okay for her to want things for herself, and more than okay to acquire said things she wants. But Spencer knew that if he told her to get things for herself- she would steadfastly refuse, and say something humble and annoying. But he wouldn’t allow that today- today was her day. And if he had to force her to have a good time he would- another kindness he was keeping subtle.

Spencer smiled with satisfaction when she accepted trying the necklace on, her blush not going unnoticed by the prince as he chuckled and stepped forward- being tall enough to simply stand over her to see what he was doing. And once it was clasped, he let the necklace drop before he stepped away from her and allowed her to view herself. Her reaction was just as he could have imagined it being. “It is.” He concurred about the beauty of the necklace. The prince was already handing over the payment for the necklace when Tate stuttered to him, the prince glancing in her direction with a smirk. “If I wasn’t sure, I wouldn’t be offering,” he stated, finishing the transaction before he focused back on Tate. “You’re going to be a Queen- you should look the part on your wedding day.” He affirmed, but it seemed like those were words she would accept. The prince only walked a few paces away to the next stand- glancing to make sure Tate was following- before he began to speak again.

“You’re in the center of the capital, Tate- is there anything else you’d like to do while we’re here?” He asked. Beyond the vast markets, the main piazza was usually filled with music and dancing, various finer established taverns to eat and drink in -though Spencer didn’t peg Tate as someone who enjoyed drinking much-, and of course a few other things. Spencer’s done it all, perhaps seen it all too. But whether Tate was as fond of most of the things Spencer enjoyed was up in the air. His eyes would briefly pass over the faces that went by, and he certainly noticed the stares in his direction, but he was accustomed to that. And even though the capital was swarmed with people, Spencer loved it more than the palace on any day. The sights, sounds, and things to do definitely beat being confined to the palace grounds.

Tate blushed further, making sure to dip her head as a thank you, to both him and the man who sold such beautiful jewelry. She turned following after him, though wondering if he had thought the same as her earlier- by grabbing her hand. Getting ahead of herself, Tate had barely heard the Prince's next words. "Oh. Um...I'm not sure what there is to do here. My father was the only one who came during his trips." She sighed, glancing around to look at the various markets and taverns. But Tate wasn't really the one for shopping either, as one could have guessed when the seamstress was fussing with her. "I skipped breakfast this morning, perhaps something to eat?" She suggested just as her stomach grumbled.

And spotting a quaint looking place stuffed in a corner, she smiled taking Spencer's hand this time and dragging his toward the diner. "If I'm right this is the place my father would come to. They have the best stew in the world!" She drew out dramatically- throwing a glance his way to see if he knew the place. Knowing him, he would. He didn't seem like the type to stick to the castle grounds, especially with the way he seemed more at ease here. Comfortable to be himself, though still guarded.

Greeted by a burly lady with a large smile to match,. they were seated at a table- a window placed next to it with the view of the town. It didn't take long for their orders to be placed and they were left waiting while it either cooked or they fixed it. "Im sorry that I have to drag you around- I know you have much better things to be doing then this." She hummed after a beat of silence; watching the world outside as merchants of all kinds moved about with their carts. Children running around the playing, their outfits still pristine showing just how wealthy you had to be in order to be here.

It bothered her. Tate to busy with her thoughts to notice the food brought out minutes later. If Tate had anything to do with it, everyone would be welcome here but rules were placed long ago. And She doubted they would ever change. People like her Uncle didn't have the luxury of spending their coins here but rather to lowly thieves and merchants who sold used items found discarded. Shaking her head, she turned her attention back to the Prince before her and the food.

It was amusing for Spencer to watch Tate’s cheeks tint with a soft red- if he made a comment, it would surely make her blush more. Though Spencer kept that thought in mind to use at a later time. He did fixate on Tate’s response to his question though- blowing out a puff of air in brief thought. Although he did ponder whether he could whisk her into town in the middle of the night- to experience the nightlife. She seemed to be enjoying what the capital was full of during the day, but at night? The capital was practically ablaze- from the torches, bonfires, and lanterns that lit the scene. It was a time where people felt free to maneuver freely beneath the night sky- sometimes just simply celebrating their existence in the most prosperous destination in the Kingdom. Spencer certainly enjoyed it- but he adored the energy of wistful crowds, especially the ones here in the capital. Everyone was looking to be seen in some way or another- the prince being no different. Although today, he didn’t feel the need to seek attention in any way he could while in Tate’s company.

Spencer looked down to Tate as she mentioned trying for a place to eat- though he had no time to offer any suggestions before she turned the tables, dragging him along with her. The blond went willingly- but rolled his eyes with a faint grin just to make a show of his “protest”. “Sure they do.” He replied sarcastically just to poke at her, though he did vaguely recognize the small, tucked away diner. He’s probably stumbled into a place like that in the early morning hours- looking for a hangover remedy in the form of food. It seemed like something he could have done even a few months ago… maybe. Though as they were seated by the woman Spencer decided could hold her own on a battlefield- he had simply ordered whatever it was Tate did. How could he pass up the best stew in the world after all?

“You should be sorry Tate,” he replied sarcastically with a false expression of theatric seriousness, “I could have been shining my armor for hours on end you know. I expect a written apology actually, just so I know you mean it.” He couldn’t help but falter in his act at the end, chuckling to himself. Really though- the best thing he could have been doing was preparing his armor and sharpening his blade for whenever he was dispatched out to defend the Kingdom in some way or another. If anyone knew what it felt like to be a toy at the hands of others though- it was the prince, who was no better than a throwaway lackey. Having no choice but to take up arms at a young age to be acknowledged as a son worthy of his father’s approval, only to be thrown into battles he wasn’t sure he would ever come back from starting at the mere age of fifteen- just after the former Queen had passed. Spencer always thought he was sent off because neither Rian or his father could bear sharing a space with him after what had happened- and his feelings were mostly proved to be right. It’s how the King collectively solved the brother’s fights, and it was the way Rian adopted ridding of Spencer when the prince grew too testy. It was only a matter of time before it happened again- the prince knew that.

Spencer lazily stirred the stew in front of him for a few moments before he took a bite; making a show of thinking about whether the stew was actually good or not. “Hm… it is good, but the best in the world?” He spoke playfully, partially expecting Tate to quickly speak in defense of the stew. Now that would be far more entertaining to Spencer. “Can I ask a silly question?” Spencer paused for just a second before continuing. “You said your uncle is a hunter- did he teach you the trade? And more importantly- how well can you wield your weapon of choice?” Spencer inquired, a genuinely excited glint in his eyes. Spencer has had to rely on hunting when camping out in the middle of nowhere with his fellow knights, but he was more curious to know whether Tate could actually wield a weapon of her own. That would fascinate him- as not many women took to playing with dangerous devices.