[I'm very rusty so I apologize if this sucks.]

"Geneviève!"

An older man sat at an oak table in the guest bedroom. His scrawny fingers tapped against the armrest of the chair as he waited for the woman to come into the room. His dull grey eyes stayed trained on the wooden door, knowing that in a moments time they are going to fly open. A golden crown with rubies embedded into them sat on the top of his salt and peppered hair. His cheeks are slightly sunken from the years of his aging. Everyone fears that he won't be lasting much longer, which would in return cause his daughter to take the throne and rule over the kingdom. Many knew that she would be a great ruler, yet she lacked the ability to make logical and rewarding decisions. Due to that, this is why they are at this kingdom to meet the prince to arrange a marriage between them in hopes of an alliance and to finally have peace between the lands.

The doors banged open as Geneviève entered the guest bedroom of the castle they are staying for the masquerade ball. Her hair is pulled back in a braid that came over her shoulder with two pieces framing her heart-shaped face. She wore armor that shone in the sunlight, having it just be polish before their trip to this kingdom. A sword hung at her waist, having her hand rest on the hilt in case she has to draw it out at any indication of danger. Her footsteps were light and precise, having them barely make a sound in the quiet bedroom. Her heterochromatic eyes flickered around the room, a slight furrow in her face when she didn't see them princess visiting with her father.

She stopped before him and bowed slightly before standing proudly before him. "Yes, your majesty?" She questioned, wondering why she was called in here so suddenly. She has a feeling that it might not be something that she likes. Well, she knows what she has to do tomorrow and she has been against it, yet, it was to protect the princess and that is why she is doing this.

"Please don't call me that. You know I hate it coming from you, yet you still do it." He grumbled, a friendly glare pointed towards her. She let out a small chuckle but rolled her eyes at him. "No matter. I have something I want you to do for me today." He paused as he got up and pushed the chair in. He walked over towards her and put a hand on her shoulder. "I was able to get a meeting with the prince today. Not for me but for you." She silently cursed in her head, biting her tongue to prevent a remark she might regret from coming out. "You are going to dressed as Sabrina and act as her like we talked about before we came here."

She wanted to shout and curse at the man. She has always hated royalty, but for some reason this king and princess somehow smuggled their way into her icy heart and melted the walls she had around them. How ironic that she hates royalty yet here she is close to them almost like a daughter. In fact, the princess looked really similar to her herself oddly enough. She knows that they are not related but it is crazy to see the resemblance they have between one another. Which is why she is in this position now. The courts wanted to have an arranged marriage between the two kingdoms to stop the war and bloodshed. They want to have an alliance and for the first time in fifty years have peace. She was all for it, yet she heard that the prince was a selfless, ruthless, cold-heart bastard that she didn't want Sabrina anywhere near him. Well, not until she made sure that she could trust the prince and ensure her best friend wasn't in any danger. That is why the king suggested that she pose as his daughter to ensure everything is safe before presenting her to the prince.

She still isn't quite sure how she is going to pass as Sabrina. The woman is the complete opposite of her. She is all fun and bubbly. She is, her exact quote to the king the other day, 'a hardcore merciless knight that eats bones for breakfast'. Yes, they might be similar, but they are so different on so many levels. Sabrina even tried to reason that Geneviève might not be able to pass as her, but her father didn't budge on the topic. She'll have to try so hard that it is going to be ever so painful to pose as a person she isn't. She even has to wear dresses, which she absolutely hates and no weapons either, expect the one she is secretly going to strap to her thigh under her dress.

"Next time tell me before you make an arrangement so I can prepare myself for the interaction." She grumbled under her breath as she shrugged his hand off of her shoulder. She kept muttering nonsense under her breath before she let a sigh out. "Fine. I'll go get dress in a stupid dress and meet him..." she trailed off, hoping he will finish off in telling her where she is to meet the prince.

"The gardens I believe." He stated as he looked her over as if to see if she will be able to pull this off. "Remember, don't ruin it. I know you won't because you haven't failed us yet. Sabrina is posing as a woman in waiting until tomorrow to where she will go to the ball and dance with the prince."

She nodded her head, hoping she can deem if the prince was trusth worthy enough to be on the dance floor with the princess. Then again, he would be dumb to try something in front of so many people. "I will. I'll get going then so I can get dressed. Once the meeting is done, I'll come report back to you."

She excused herself from the chambers without another word. She told the guards stationed at the door to keep an eye out since she was going to be gone for a bit before she slipped into her room across the hall. She threw opened the closest and eyed the dresses hanging there with disgust. She doesn't remember the last time she ever wore a dress and heels. Hopefully she can make it seem like she has always worn these and not make a fool out of herself. Thankfully a healer made a cream that will make the scar disappear that is over her right eye. She doubt it will work but she shall see once she puts it on after putting her dress on.

She grabbed a black long-sleeved dress with the red embroider and black diamonds to the chest out from the closet. She held it up in the sunlight, a deep frown on her lips as she glanced over the dress. As soon as she is done with this meeting, this bloody dress is going to be coming off of her. She quickly slipped the dress on once she stripped her previous clothes off. She quickly put some makeup on and did her hair before she felt satisfied that she looked decently enough.

She looked at the cream sitting on the desk doubting that it will actually work. Yet again, Sabrina said a healer helped her and she knew that they held the ability to make something like this. She grabbed the container regardless and went to the bathroom to look at herself in the mirror so she can apply this so-called miracle cream over her scar. She popped the lid off and scooped a bit out with her fingers before applying it to the scar. She watched in amazement as the scar disappeared before her eyes as the cream went over it. She set the container down and wiped it off, seeing that her scar is still there. At least it didn't heal it since she considers it to be part of her rough exterior.

She exited the bathroom and finally looked at herself in the full body mirror in the far corner of the room. She doesn't really recognize herself with the small amount of makeup she ended up applying to her eyes and of course the cream over the scar. Even with her hair flowing loosely down her back in elegant curls and the dress hugging her frame in the right places made her look like a completely different person. She looked like an actual lady for the first time in her life. She hesitated as she glanced at the pair of black heels sitting at the base of her bed. She doesn't even remember the last time she ended up putting those types of shoes on her feet. She just hopes she doesn't make a fool out of herself as she walks in them.

She quickly slipped the heels on, stumbling slightly as she made her way to the door. She let a string of profundities out of her mouth when her ankle almost twisted. After all of this is all said and done with, there is no way she is going to be agreeing to something like this ever again. It will have to be centuries before she lets anyone force her into a decision like this to make sure the situation at hand is safe. She grabbed a knife and holder and quickly applied it onto her thigh before she exited the bedroom to meet the prince.

She grumbled the whole way to the garden after she asked for a guard to show her the way. The longer she walked in these damn heels, the better she got. By the time she made it to the garden, she was walking normally and no longer stumbling over her feet like a foal that was born. A small smile appeared on her lips as she gazed at the garden with various types of flowers and colors. The garden has always been a place she can find comfort in, minus the library. She thanked the guard for his help in bringing her here before finding a bench and sitting down as he waited for the prince.

The windows of the study were open to let in a cool breeze, and there were lamps near every seat. The lights left very few shadows in the room. There were many bookshelves with the personal books of the prince. Most of the titles had to do with anatomy, surgery, or magic. Belseleth was leaning forward over his desk where he kept his book. His eyes eagerly roved the pages. He sat in a cushioned leather chair, while he gently turned the next page of his book. He studied the diagram of a person. It showed where the major organs were in the body. He scribbled a few notes in his notebook on the desk. He lifted his head when a timid knock sounded at the door. Frowning in a stern voice that carried, he responded, "Come in."

The servant bowed deeply keeping his gaze downcast. He came in close enough that his voice would carry easily to the prince, but he kept a good distance away from him. "Your Majesty. Their Highnesses the king and queen wish to speak to you in their shared sitting room immediately." He waited in a respectful position for the prince's answer.

"Very well," he sighed, leaving his book open where it was, but flipping his notebook shut. "Go ahead. Lead the way."

He did know the way to his parents' private sitting chamber, but he would prefer to be announced. The servant knocked for him then loudly announced. "His Highness Prince Belseleth has come as commanded."

From inside a strong voice responded. "Enter."

Belseleth wanted to go ahead and push on through without waiting. However, he was slightly curious about what his parents wanted to see him about, and he knew that not following proper protocol would cause a delay in the revealing of information. In his opinion, his parents were too big on ceremony and trying to seem important. They were important. They shouldn't need all of this pomp and circumstance to prove it.

They were sitting together instead of doing their own thing. Belseleth tensed because it meant they were trying to put on a unified front, which meant that they wanted no arguing and they expected resistance. In simpler terms, Belseleth was not going to like it. "Good day father, good day mother." He nodded respectfully to each of them. In their private chambers there was no need for further formalities.

"How have you been son?" his father smiled at him. He had medium brown hair, but it was becoming flecked with gray, reminding Belseleth of his father's age. "I am doing well. I have been studying my books. You know what I hope to accomplish with my magic. I want to learn how to heal."

"Good, good." His father smiled patronizingly. "That sounds very useful. His mother was a pale woman. She was thin and frail with highly visible cheekbones. Unlike his father's dark hair, her light blond hid her gray much better. "Sweetheart, I hope you haven't forgotten to eat breakfast. Have your servants made sure you have eaten?"

"No, I kicked them out unless someone had a message for me or I needed one of them to help me. I haven't been hungry," he explained.

"Sit down my boy." His father patted a seat between him and his wife. He ordered a servant to bring his son brunch. Belseleth sat down and stared into both of his parents' blue eyes, much like his own, trying to guess what was coming. He ran his fingers through his blond hair trying to maintain his patience and keep his neutral facial expression, as his father went the round-about-way to the topic they would discuss. He decided he might as well join in on their polite beating around the bush and gain some approval. "How are you mother?" He gave her a gentle smile. "

I am well. Thank you." She returned his smile.

Finally, the servant returned with food from the kitchen. His parents talked while he ate. It was an unusual display of family unity that was rare for them. He almost started to feel a warmth spread across in his stomach, but he quickly squelched the positive thought and pushed it away. When he finished eating, there was a few more minutes of small talk while the dishes were cleared before they settled down to business.

"Belseleth, as you know we've been arranging negotiations. They are interested in connecting our kingdoms together through marriage, but they want to meet you. Or more specifically, the princess would like to meet you. You'll be meeting her soon. That's why we wanted you to eat beforehand," his father explained. "Don't want you to be grouchy because you haven't eaten yet. You need to put your best foot forward."

He frowned at his father saying that he could be grumpy. "Very well," he sighed. "Where am I meeting her?"

"We thought in the garden would be nice. You can show her around and there are beautiful flowers," his mother smiled.

He nodded, not really caring where he met her. He had been aware that she was coming and that he would have to meet her. He just hadn't expected his parents to make such a big deal out of it. "May I be excused and go get ready?"

"Yes, of course." They nodded. He exited and left.

He returned to his study and grabbed the book he was reading. When he returned to his room he ordered a servant to pick out his outfit and he continued to read his book. It did not take Belseleth long to get dressed and he was ready to head down to the garden. His outdoors clothing was slightly less ornate and made of more durable material such as linen and leather instead of silk. He found himself in the garden first, which is how his parents would prefer it. They would want him to greet her and show that he was attentive and ready by being there first.

He wandered around his garden looking for the plants that he had read about which could be used to assist in healing. They tended to be at the outside of the garden as they were not as pretty to look at. He continued along until he noticed a young lady sitting on a bench. She was dressed very well and he realized that the princess was here and no one had told him. Before he approached her, he noted the pleasant expression she had from gazing around their garden. "My lady," he bowed at the waist and took her hand to kiss it. "I apologize for keeping you waiting. I am Prince Belseleth. I did not know you were already in the garden. I would have come find you directly instead of wandering around. You like beautiful today. Someone should have a portrait of you done with the garden as the background. It would look delightful. Would you like to stroll? Are there any plants you would like to specifically see?"

"How are you my lady? How has your visit been so far? I did not expect to get to meet you so soon. I have heard how protective your father is. He does me great honor by allowing me to meet you." He had not even gotten to meet her father yet. His parents had talked to him of course, but Belseleth tried to stay out of the way when possible.

"What are some of your interests? What are you known for? I was curious whose idea it was to meet outside. Do you like being outdoors?" He pointed out some of the plants and talked about what he liked about them. Unlike what his parents used the plants for, he praised their use. His parents were looking for unique exotic plants that were hard to find and sometimes even harder to care for. Other parts of the garden were well known plants that his country was known for. Throughout their tour of the garden he showed her little nooks and crannies he played and hid in as a young boy. "Do you have a favorite color?"

"What is your favorite color and flower?" The gardeners hated when he plucked up some of their hard work, but he thought he should find her a pretty flower in her favorite color as a token. He tried to space out what he took so maybe they wouldn't notice. He was still young enough where they would criticize him about that to his face.

Geneviève was enjoying having alone time as she gazed at the garden, noting her favorite flowers she liked among them. Even if she wasn't much like the other girls, she still enjoyed the small things, such as flowers and messing around with her hair when she has the time to. She was about to reach out and touch the white roses when a voice startled her. She jumped every so slightly as a string of curse words were at the tip of her tongue. She bit her tongue before she could let them slip and ruin Sabrina's image. As much as her hand itched to reach for the dagger strapped at her thigh, she knew the man in front of her was the prince before he introduced himself to her. She cursed herself for not being on high alert in enemy territory as well.

Her brow raised slightly when he bowed towards her and introduced himself along with apologizing. She is definitely surprised that he seems alright for the most part. She wasn't used to people bowing towards her let alone actually be polite towards her. She tilted her head slightly as she took in his appearance, noting that he was not that bad looking. When he started to speak again, she had to hold back her snort when he mentioned having a portrait be done of her. Yeah, someone would love to have a painted portrait of her. Notice the sarcasm? She doesn't know the last time someone told her that she is beautiful and not sweating multiple layers from training.

Be kind and pleasant like Sabrina or everything could backfire. "Ah, it is alright. I wasn't waiting long. Besides, it's a lovely garden and I kind of forgot that I was meeting you until you arrived." She said honestly as she stood up and gently smoothed out her dress like she has seen Sabrina do countless times before. She bowed towards him, hating that she has to bow towards more royalty that she dislikes. "Nice to meet you, Prince. I'm Princess Sabrina." The words tasted bitter on her tongue, hating that she is posing as someone else. She straightened herself out before bunching some of the fabric of her dress in her hand as she started to walk along the paved path. "A stroll would be ever so lovely."

She was taken back with questions after questions coming out of his mouth, wanting to know more about her. Well, Sabrina. How is she supposed to answer all of these questions when he keeps ratting questions out without giving her the chance to speak? She took a deep breath, trying so hard not to snap at the man. She knows the he is only being nice, for the most part, and making conversation. He just wants to get to know the woman that he will most likely be marrying. She doesn't know how royalty and noblemen could ask so many questions at once and still get answers whenever she was in meetings with them. She practically forgets the first two questions out of what seems like a million that are being asked.

She took a deep breath and plastered on a fake smile that seemed so real. "I am actually doing quite well. And you? My visit has been lovely so far. My father has been keeping me company for the most part along with my best friend. I don't get too bored, thankfully." She said, not necessarily lying as it was mostly the truth. She nodded her head when he mentioned the King being very overprotective. Ever since the Queen died of an unknown illness, he hasn't let Sabrina out of the castle walls in fear that she will suffer the same fate. "That he is. I don't particularly blame him. I understand his reasoning for it but I do wish that he will loosen the leash and let me go into town and play with the children." She cringed mentally at that. She hated children for the most part but Sabrina absolutely loves them and is constantly asking how they are doing whenever she comes back from patrolling village.

She cursed herself, not knowing all of Sabrina's interests. She wishes she had more time to get information she didn't know about Sabrina before she met the prince. Then again, Sabrina was busy preparing to leave and the King sprung this meeting on her without any induction before hand. "Well..." She trailed off, digging through her brain with the information she has. She pretended that she was looking at the flowers and plants they walked by as she thought. "Not much, unfortunately, since I don't have much freedom. I love horseback riding when I am given the liberty to or when my best friend sneaks me away to ride the mounts." She smiled softly at the memory, knowing that if the King knew about her sneaking his daughter out to go riding, he would have her head. Well, not literally but at least punish her. "I am safe since she is a knight after all." She added to ensure that she was safe whenever she was out. "I do like reading." Something that they surprisingly share. "Taking care of the garden, cooking in the kitchen when I can sneak away from my duties, and helping the servants." Even though Sabrina always gets scolded for cooking or helping the servants but her father, Geneviève never tells the king whenever she finds the princess doing those activities.

What is she known for? The hell if she knew what Sabrina is known for. She fought the urge to bite her lip, something she does when she is nervous. She could say she doesn't know considering she isn't outside the castle much. "Not much, I'm afraid. It doesn't help when I'm kept in the castle. Though, if you must know, I suppose I could tell you. I'm known for my necromancy. Well, the few people who know. Something I got from my mother. I do wish I got my fathers magic, which is controlling nature. Alas, I got something that people are scared of and do wish to have the power in their grasp. Perhaps my mother died from poison as an assassination attempt rather than an illness." She mused as her brain started to kick into gear. It is a possibility as she doesn't know how many times she has stopped the Queen from being assassinated before she died. "It is something I don't quite tell people and dance around boosting about it. I like to keep it a secret to protect myself and the people I love." She wasn't entirely lying as she doesn't remember the last time that she has seen Sabrina use her magic. She laughed softly as she nodded her head. "Yes, I do enjoy being outdoors. However, I am afraid it was my father's doing in meeting here."

She listened to the prince along with looking at all the nooks and crannies that he showed her. She smiled slightly, for some reason feeling somewhat relaxed being here. Perhaps it just because she is in the garden because it is one of the few places that relax her. "Red. Red is my favorite color." Red used to not be her favorite color. It used to always be blue. It changed when her brother died. She smiled as she stopped before the sunflowers and let her fingertips gently graze the petals. "Sunflowers." She said it before she could correct her answer. "I also enjoy Lilies and Amaryllis'." She added, knowing she messed up but he wouldn't know that. "Why do you ask?"

"Same questions you asked me that I ask of you." She retorted as she turned towards the prince. "As well as, why did you agree to this arranged marriage?"

Belseleth Arnold noted that she was tense and surprised when he greeted her. If she was that nervous and startled he wondered where her guards were. It was their first meeting. It was understandable if she didn’t want the normal amount of privacy if she didn’t feel safe here. If she didn’t feel safe he wondered how her father had been convinced. He observed a subtle change to her face when he stated that she should have a portrait done. Perhaps he had laid it on a little too thick. It was the kind of thing his father would say, and he had done it in imitation of his father without thinking. He made a mental note to save that for more vain people and to get a better feel for who a person was before trying that.

He wondered if he should mention that Sabrina could call him Belseleth, or Bel, or Seth. Mainly, she didn’t have to use his title. He was concerned that she would think too much of it. His parents were very formal. They could see this as a good thing, being personable, or be horrified that he had broken all kinds of protocols. He felt a little bit of warmth and relief spread that she was willing to go for a stroll. He had heard that her kingdom had beautiful land and flowers, so she was probably the type to enjoy the outdoors, or she could be the complete opposite and a surprise. The Arnolds’ garden was probably not near as pretty nor the weather as pleasant. He observed that she cheerfully smiled when he asked about her visit. That should be a good sign unless she was politely hiding it with a convincing smile.

“If you get bored, I’m sure you could request something,” he offered. He thought about books or doing an activity such as riding or getting a tour. He nodded acknowledging the inconvenience of an overprotective father and that she wished to go play with the children. Princesses were highly protected. It probably would not have mattered too much if her mother had died or not. His mind drifted for a moment to being married to her. Would she want lots of children? He wanted to make a face, but he remembered to keep it the same. He knew most queens were expected to have as many children as possible just in case they died. It would not be wise of him to try to limit how many children unless it was for the queen’s health.

He watched as she struggled to come up with an answer and found that very normal. Unless the question had been asked before people normally didn’t think about these things in such black and white terms. It was a vague concept that they hadn’t solidified in their mind. He observed that she felt the need to add that she was with a knight. He knew that she was implying that she was safe. A subtle warning to not try to take advantage of them sneaking off. As much as he enjoyed horseback riding he knew that horses were not safe. However, it was something very few royals gave up. “What do you like to read?” he asked as a follow up. “We do have a library, believe it or not. If things are too slow around here, I’m sure the servant attending you would show you the way if you asked.” He smirked a little amused. “I wouldn’t try to tend to our garden. The gardeners are very particular.” He was a little less amused by the idea of her heading to their kitchen. His kingdom would consider that dangerous. Only very trusted servants were allowed to work there as they considered it an easy access point to poisoning the royal family.

“You help the servants?” He cocked his head, finding that interesting. “How? You consider that worth getting into trouble? What do the servants think about that?” He had heard about the princess’s cheerful, energetic, amiable, outgoing nature. He was curious that the reputation hadn’t gotten back to the princess. He was intrigued that her ability was necromancy. She was known for it yet she kept it under wraps. He supposed that made sense. He knew that controlling nature must be a very useful ability. What would someone do with necromancy? “Perhaps your father chose the garden because he thought you would enjoy it.”

He noticed that she became more relaxed as he showed her the hidden nooks and crannies of his childhood. He smiled at her question. “You’ll see…maybe…if I can get my gardeners to cooperate with me.” He considered what those three flowers would look like in a bouquet. Maybe he should ask for two separate bouquets. He could see the fuss that his gardeners would put up now. He tensed a little at the last question. It wasn’t a very interesting answer. He had already considered some of the other questions in his mind while she had been talking just in case she turned the questions back on him. “You’ll have to answer that last question as well,” he warned.

He almost played dumb that he didn’t; remember all of the questions he asked, but he had a very good memory and wouldn’t let the memory of this conversation fade until he had a chance to think about it and examine it later. “I would like to stroll, and I showed you some of the plants that I wanted to see. I saw the rest of them before I found you. I am doing well, and until now your visit hasn’t caused too much of a difference for me in the way I live my life.” He had to think a little about how he wanted to answer the next question.

He made many of the servants uncomfortable with his experiments and studies. “My ability is to heal. I am working on learning about biology and anatomy so I can better use my ability. I want to preserve as many lives as I can, and I take it very seriously. I have asked servants to come to me for treatment so I can practice my ability. They don’t care for me very much. I don’t try complicated stuff. Mostly headaches, runny noses, sore throats, coughs, and shallow cuts on the skin. Some of the symptoms are more complicated than I realize.” He understood why. He wouldn’t want to be enlisted into some private experiment, but he didn’t know how else to get practice to improve. He knew that what he had said could be a big turn off, but he felt that he needed to be honest and upfront with what she would be dealing with. “I got my ability from my father, but he has not tried to develop it and can heal very little.”

He hadn’t had a favorite flower in mind, so he had been stalling for time. “I like the color blue and I like forget-me-nots and white roses. Forget-me-nots are blue and white roses are interesting to look at to me.” He sighed when it came to the last question. “It’s not a very interesting answer. Logically, I would need a young princess, so that we can produce heirs. You are at least near my age. I would have to marry someone and I hoped I would at least be able to have conversations with you. Too much of an age difference is a barrier. You also fit the other things on the checklist that my parents had.” He looked at her after she answered the question she had asked. “How do you feel about this marriage? What will you do differently than your parents whether it be parenting or ruling or something else? What will you try to do the same?”

Geneviève nodded her head when he mentioned that she could request for something if she were to get bored. She appreciated that as she has a feeling that she might eventually get bored. Then again, the offer is being offered for the princess, not her. She needs to remember that she is posing as Sabrina and not herself and has to be careful how she answers these questions. As she listened to Belseleth talk, she thought a bit more about the Queen. Perhaps the Queen was assassinated by poison, something that wasn't checked or indicted or put in after the taster ate the food before serving it to the Queen. She'll have to find out more information while once she goes back to Alynthi.

When he asked her what she liked to read, she couldn't hold back the excited that appeared on her face. As much as she hated royalty, as she has stated many times before, she can't hide her love for books. "There is one way to get me to always talk." She muttered as the grin stayed on her face. She could talk for hours and hours about everything she loves to read and what her favorites are. Sadly, she knew he didn't have the time and she couldn't exactly give him an earful to where it will bore him to death. "I'll read about anything, honestly. I will always pick up a book on history and magic, no matter the kind. History because I always enjoy learning about the other kingdoms and everything that happened in the past. As for magic, same thing as history. I like learning about the different types of magic that is out in the world. That is all I'll say for now. I could go on and on for days, but I don't want to bore you for days on end." She said as she let a small chuckle out.

She nodded her head again when he mentioned not to mess with the garden. She understood that since the gardeners always put a lot of work into their pride and joy. As soon as he started asking questions as to why she, well Sabrina, helps the servants, she slightly tensed at that. She didn't know the entire truth as to why Sabrina helped with the servants or helped in the kitchen. Though, she knew that the woman only did it because she loves her people and likes to ease the stress on their shoulders. "I get we are royalty and should be handed everything for the most part." She started, cringing at every work she is saying. She let a sigh out as she looked away from him and at the flowers in front of her. "I like easing their stress and their burdens. I don't mind doing the work as it gives me something to do in my boring life. I help them with the laundry mostly. As for the kitchen, I enjoy cooking. Obviously I get push back from the cook before he finally gives in and let's me experiment on my cooking ideas I have." She remembers some of the dishes that Sabrina has made. Most of them were good, surprisingly. There were those few dishes that she made that tasted like shit and she couldn't help but run away and spit the food in the trash.

"Indeed. I do love the garden, especially during the winter time." She muttered as a soft expression appeared on her face as she thought about the garden during the winter months. She turned her head towards him, her brow raise as the corner of her mouth raised ever so slightly. "Oh, then I do hope they cooperate with you as I'm curious as to what you have in mind." She wasn't minding his company, but he might only be putting this facade up to act innocent when he truly isn't. He could strike at any moment, especially since they are alone. As much as she kept her guard up for the most part, she'll say that she didn't feel completely unsafe. Though, as soon as she asked him the question of why she agreed to this marriage, she tensed. If she were Sabrina, she would fight it. Sabrina didn't mind it as she stated her reason why she didn't fight it and accepted it before they left.

She almost gave him a look but caught herself when he said that her visit made no difference in his every day life. That was a bit blunt for her taste. Then again, that is something Sabrina likes, someone being blunt and straight forward than beating around the bush. As for her, she doesn't take too kindly to it, even if she is the same way. She hummed, pretending that it didn't bother her in the slightest before her interest perked at his ability. Out of most of the magic that is out there, her favorites are animal and healing based ability. She listened intently to him, seeing how he enjoys his ability with a passion, especially since he is working on how to use it and expand it. "Well, if you ever need help on the anatomy, disease, or anything related to healing, don't be afraid to ask. Along withmagic and history, I do ready a lot about the anatomy, the diseases, and the healing. I probably don't know as much as you do, but I'll always help." She doesn't know why she offered that to him when she is supposed to be acting like Sabrina. She didn't correct herself though as she continued to listen to him.

She hummed, keeping a mental note of the color and the flowers to tell Sabrina when she sees the princess later. Then he finally got to why he agreed to this marriage. As she listened to him, she had to bite her tongue to prevent something nasty from coming out. She supposed she expected an answer like this. She thought it would be more meaningful as she why he agreed to it like Sabrina did. She let a sigh leave her lips to loosen the anger that is hovering in her chest. She doesn't want to entirely answer him on the questions and give him a false answer, but that would be her talking. She supposed that what he said is what she would've said.

"Well, I want to end the bloodshed and the ongoing war that has been going on for fifty years." She wasn't entirely lying as that is why Sabrina agreed to it. "It's time to have it come to an end as it's completely useless. There needs to be peace and children need to stop growing up in a world of war and hate and blood. They shouldn't have to experience it nor should they experience what it is like to loose a sibling or a father." She had to keep the hurt out of her voice when she brought up loosing a sibling. She couldn't let that slip since the king doesn't have any other children. "If an arranged marriage is what it takes to make it all end, then I'm willing to do it."

She thought about his other questions, wondering what Sabrina would say to them. "How I feel about it really makes no difference since it seems to be happening no matter what." She said with a shrug of her shoulders. She pursed her lips as she walked down a new path to admire the new plants and flowers. "Though, I don't prefer it as I would rather marry someone I love, it's alright. I'm sure something will happen between us eventually once we are married and the years go on." She stated, knowing that is what Sabrina would say for the most part. She knew Sabrina would rather marry someone she loves but knew this was for the better. "I wouldn't try to do the same as my father. I wouldn't keep my children shielded for all their life and not be able to experience freedom. Obviously there will be rules and guards with them at all times, they still get the freedom I never got to experience. I'll obviously stay caring and generous like my father is towards my people." She explained as she stopped and turned towards him. "And I wouldn't force my children into an arranged marriage. I would figure something out to find peace and an alliance."

"What about you?"

Belseleth felt his brows raised, surprised about how passionate she was about reading. He leaned forward to hear what she had to say. That was great! They had something they could relate to each other about. Also, it was good to know he had a surefire way to start a conversation with her. “Okay, if you don’t think we have enough to dive into what you like to read, what is one book recommendation you have? Any genre and I will gladly take multiple books. History and magic, that is an interesting pairing. They are both very interesting,” he agreed.

He was surprised at her reasoning for helping the servants. To lessen their burden? He found himself sputtering with indignant confusion.“That’s their job. That’s what they are paid for. Nobles are required to protect them, and they do the mundane physical labor so that we can protect them. If they need help why don’t you hire more servants?” He did realize that palaces have budgets. Surely, one of the royals had some magical ability that they could use to help.

He flinched, surprised that a noble would think so horribly about their position. Was she not educated in what her role entailed? “You really think that we are just supposed to take things without earning it? You don’t think being a noble has sacrifices? We are required to be willing to lay down our lives to protect the commoners. With our positions come responsibilities. What about all of the knights who have died in battle? What about all the unhappiness that nobles go through to make alliances to keep their kingdoms safe?” He pointed out the last part because he knew she wasn’t thrilled about their arranged marriage. He tried to settle down not wanting to blow up into an argument during their first meeting. He was concerned that he had gone too far, but it was too late.

He decided to change the topic anyway. “I can understand cooking.” When he was a child he liked to wait in the kitchens. The food was tasty and the process was interesting to watch. “However, laundry seems so tedious. Wouldn’t it hurt your skin?” He was curious about her cooking and how she convinced the cook. “What do you cook normally? How did you convince the cook to let you ?”

He smirked at her curiosity about his plans for her favorite color and flower. His idea wasn’t that interesting. He just hoped she appreciated it. He realized that she might take it the wrong way saying it hadn’t changed his life, but he figured if he tried to explain it would sound worse. Until now, since he hadn’t been interacting with the visiting royals, he went about his days as he normally did. It required nothing from him. Even if it did sound terrible, he didn’t see Sabrina (Genevieve) show signs of being bothered. He nodded acknowledging her offer of help. Once they got married he would be willing to accept her help, but he wasn’t comfortable showing what he was working on until their relationship was permanent. “I would really appreciate your input and advice. I’d be happy to show you after our wedding.”

He dipped his head acknowledging that his reasons were not great or deep. “I’m sorry.” He gave a helpless shrug. “I didn’t think you would be particularly pleased by the answer.” Their marriage logically made sense, so he had no reason to push back against his parents. He admired her reasons for getting married, but privately he believed his country could defeat them. Reducing bloodshed and making a good alliance was part of the checklist his parents had. “I want to reduce death and suffering. I’m going about it a different way from you through learning how to heal. I am sorry for your loss and suffering. I hope our marriage can put an end to it. I…I hadn’t thought about it that way before. I saw it was a way of strengthening our kingdoms and not as a way of stopping bloodshed. You’ve given me another good way to view it.”

He tilted his head looking at her. “But it does matter what attitude you bring to the marriage. I need to know how much I should leave you alone versus trying to build a relationship between us. I don’t want to tread into your personal space. Some sort of relationship will be built between us eventually, but there are certain ways to build more amiable relationships than others.” He nodded agreeing with her wanting to marry someone she loved. “Is it easier to marry a stranger you don’t love or would it be easier to marry someone you know but don’t love?” He smirked at her half positive half resigned view of them eventually developing some affection for each other. “I would guess that spending a lot of time together would develop some sort of feeling for each other.”

When she described how she would be different he frowned. “That doesn’t sound like freedom either. What makes it different from what you have lived through other than you will let your children marry for love?” Of course he couldn’t realize that her father was so overprotective he would send someone to deceive a prince to test him and see what kind of man he was. Maybe he would understand the freedom that “Sabrina” was looking for otherwise. “That is interesting. Marriage alliances are some of the most effective ways for establishing peace. What other way is there that is as effective?”

“I am working on developing my abilities to heal. I want to be the best healer in the land. I want to stop death and suffering the only way I know how. I also think I would work harder to establish trade deals for grain and other food supplies. My subjects are barely supplied enough food to survive the winters. My father is very good at being diplomatic. He is polite, formal, and hard to read. I think his skills would be useful to be able to emulate. However, I am not as skilled as him.”

He was surprised at how resistant she was to an arranged marriage and he wondered if he should be more indignant and offended. However, he didnt’ want her to not feel comfortable talking to him, so he tried not to take it personally. At least not outwardly. It made him feel better about his own doubts and hesitations. “Is an arranged marriage really that bad? You can’t resist it at all? Surely, all it would take is you saying that I’m a terrible person and your father wouldn’t make you marry me. He wouldn’t want you to be surrounded by us savage northerners.” He was a little surprised at how that would be one of the things she would change. To him it seemed like a useful tool. “Where would your children meet someone fit to marry them?”

“So tell me about your best friend. How did you meet? What is she like? Will I get to meet her? She sounds like she is very important to you," he started to try to delve into areas of life that had been influential to her. He figured that she could answer that question as impersonal or personable as she would like. He added an observation. "You sound like you are easily bored with your life. What do you actually do with it? Are you not training to rule your kingdom? What are you doing in preparation for that?” As a more lighthearted question, he always found this one at least slightly interesting when he was trying to learn more about someone. “What music do you listen to? Who are some of your favorite artists, composers, and performers?” He looked up surprised to see a servant trying to get his attention. “Your Highnesses. Your parents have decided that is enough time together. You may return inside to see them. They hope you will be eager to see each other later.”

Geneviève noticed that he was surprised that she liked books. She supposed it was rather odd in a way since they are always thrown into books to learn the history and how to train to rule a kingdom. She was slightly startled that he asked her what book she recommends. "Well, uh..." She stuttered, trying to think straight. She doesn't stutter often and when she does, it's usually when she is at a lost of words. She whacked through the library of books in her head until she settled on one. "One of my favorites is one about how the magic first came to be. The Ancient Power. Doesn't sound like an interesting book but I assure you that it is. I was intrigued within the first few pages."

Her brows raised, not quite understanding why he thinks Sabrina shouldn't help the servants. She looked away to hide a sour expression from his words. Exactly why she hates royalty. They think of nothing but themselves and the nobles protect them for their service. She bit her lip to prevent a mumble of words leave her lips. She took a breathe in, relaxing her features before turning towards him once more. She has to be careful what she says and try not to think of herself. "That's not the point. We have plenty of money and servants. It's gives me something to do and I enjoy doing it. I don't see a problem helping them because I like to. I understand what you are saying, I truly do. I like talking to them too to hear about life outside the wall and their families if they have one." She tried to explain, not sure he will still understand Sabrina's reasoning for it.

She let a sigh out, knowing that she can't lash out with what he said. He is right, in some way, but she knows that Sabrina, for some odd reason, doesn't completely think that way. "I can't exactly lay down my life, can I?" She said a little too harshly. This man is truly trying to pressure her out of her fake personality. Perhaps she isn't fit for this role and should have Sabrina personally do this while she keeps close at all times. "I would if I could. I'm held under lock and guard ever since my mother left. If I could lay down my life to protect the commoners and everyone else, I would in a heartbeat." She knew the sacrifices and what families went through if their beloved died in battle. She was one of them and she was one that almost died on the battlefield for the a raging war that had been going on for decades. "I know the responsibilities. I know the sacrifices. I can't do much when I'm under one's thumb." She knew she shouldn't have been harsh at the beginning, but she couldn't help it. She needs to get under control or this meeting could take a turn.

She noticed he changed the topic, seeming to get worked up just like she was. She was thankful as she didn't want to think about what could happen if she kept pushing forward like that. She shrugged her shoulders. "They wash them. I just fold, so it really isn't hard on the skin." She would let him see her hands but he might notice the callouses on her hands. That would be a difficult one to explain to him. "I sweet talk him. It works every time, especially since he's a big pushover." She said as she chuckled softly. She thought about the different dishes Sabrina has made but the more common ones she does. "I love making pasta from hand. Tedious to do but I enjoy it the most regardless of the kind. I always experiment with different sauces and spices to see what I could do with it. Most of the time it comes out magnificent while other times it makes you run to the trash to spit it out. Or to the bathroom." She muttered the last part.

Her brows raised when he said he'll take her input and advice after the wedding. She totally understands that as she is sure he has secrets and experiments he isn't ready to share with anyone yet. It will take time, surely, much like it took time for her to warm up to Sabrina with each time the woman pestered to talk to her. At least he wants to make an end to the loss and suffering. She personally hates going to a family and telling them the bad news when one of her people die out on the battle fields. It hits a bit too close to home when the families end up sobbing and screaming for their loved ones. That part of the job is something she wished she didn't have to do. "I appreciate it. I'm happy I was able to give you another way to see what this marriage can do for our kingdoms."

She listened to him talk about the attitude to bring to the marriage and what he should except. She knows that Sabrina will have no troubles building a relationship with this man, exploring the possibilities between them, and learn to accept him for who he is. She always saw the good in people and is always willing to put forth the effort. That is why so many people love her. "I want to build a relationship. Personal space doesn't matter too much for me. The only time I ask for it is if I'm visiting with Geneviève or I'm somehow in a foul mood. I'm a very outgoing person and talkative, so I don't think we'll have an issue trying to form some sort of relationship." She never thought about that, his question about love. It would be interesting to see what Sabrina would answer. "I suppose I would rather marry a stranger that I don't love."

Her brows raised when he asked her what the difference is. Why wouldn't someone want to marry for love? She certainly would if she wanted something like that or loved someone. She doesn't have to worry about that though as she doesn't want to put someone, her partner, through the heartache if she were to die in battle. "How is it not freedom? They have the ability to choose who they want to love and marry whether it is another noble person, royalty, a knight, or commoner, within reason of course." She knows that marriage alliances are the best way for establishing peace. She, herself, didn't understand why a parent would offer their children to a stranger to establish an alliance. Just didn't make sense but then again, she doesn't have to worry about it since she isn't an actual princess. "Treaties, offering land, etc. Yes, marriage is the easiest and most effective and accepted. Something where strangers who don't care for each other don't have to marry."

She listened to him talk about his abilities and what he wants to do. She smiled slightly at that, seeing that he is driven to do and be better. She has a feeling that he is better at being a diplomatic that he lets on. Sure, many think they will never be able to live up to their parents or even be better than them, but sometimes they don't know how good they are until someone points it out to them. "You'll get there one day. I know you will."

She sighed as she glanced up at the sky. She knows that she could tell the King no to this marriage, but she knows that he wants to end this war. Right now, the prince is doing good, unless it's a mask to cover up who he truly is. "Not entirely. I just never thought I would really be in this situation considering how my father is towards my safety." It's true. She never thought that the King would ever agree to something like this. Hell, he sent her to pose as Sabrina for his daughters safety to ensure that everything would be okay and that he is making the right decision. "Yes, I could, but I won't. Even if you beat me and treated me badly, I wouldn't say a word. This needs to end no matter what the consequences toward me could be." Those were the exact words that Sabrina said to her when she asked the princess a similar question.

She grinned when he asked her what her best friend, herself, was like. She could talk about it for hours but she knew that was more her being excited since Sabrina is her only friend. "I don't think you'll like her that much. Geneviève, well, she's different than most." She didn't know how or what to say about her. Others from the outside have better understanding on how and who she is rather than herself. "She's a bit like you in a way with being rather blunt. She doesn't take kindly to us royalty, yet it's ironic that I'm her best friend." She snorted slightly before putting a hand to her mouth. She acted a bit embarrassed, more for Sabrina, that she snorted like a pig and it sounded awful. "Excuse me." She muttered behind her hand. She took a moment to compose herself before continuing to talk about herself. "She has had a rough past and her not liking us is a good reason. Not my story to tell, I'm afraid. She's worked hard to get where she is and she's proud of it too." She smiled slightly as she thought about how far she has come. Even though she never thought she would serve royalty after what happened, here she is a knight and posing as a princess.

"We actually met in the library. Shes a fan of books just as much as I am. Well, more so actually. She was very standoffish, harsh, and cold towards me. I pestered her for months until she let me in a little bit. Then the rest was history." She explained as she smiled slightly at the memory. She was reading one of her favorite books when she first met Sabrina in the library. She tried to escape the room as quickly as possible to get away from the princess, but she cornered her in the room before she got the chance. Never again is she going to make that mistake. "You will meet her. Perhaps tomorrow at the masquerade ball. Just a warning, she won't take kindly to you." Which is true as she wasn't going to be nice like she is now. Most of this is an act and will continue to be as she is playing the role of Sabrina. "She is very important and I'm not sure what I would do without her, despite her personality."

Like a tidal wave, a bunch of more questions that she mostly didn't know the answer to flowed out of his mouth. She wasn't ready for another set of questions, especially ones that she didn't really know. She had an inkling for a few of them, but the rest she didn't know. Perhaps after this meeting she'll visit Sabrina and get some information out of her. She opened her mouth to answer a few of the questions when she noticed something else caught his attention. She followed his gaze and saw a servant come towards them. She listened to what the servant said, relief flooding her body. At least she is in the clear for now. "It seems I'll have to answer them at another time. Farewell, Prince Belseleth. I look forward to meeting you again." She said as she bowed towards him. Once she bided him a farewell, she went straight to her room to get this god forsaken dress off.

He waited patiently as she searched her brain for a favorite book. “Oh yeah. I think that was one of the first ones I read about magic. It was interesting.” She was barely hiding the extent that his response had annoyed her. If she found manual labor that interesting then he supposed he could understand why she did it, but he still disliked the fact that she had said she did it to lighten the servant’s work. If they disliked it so much someone in charge could hire more help or the servants employed could protest and leave, or the work could be divided up differently so it wasn’t as heavy of a burden on them, but it shouldn’t be necessary for her to work. He raised a brow. “It might not be hard labor, but as you’ve pointed out, getting married to a complete stranger and giving up freedoms isn’t nothing. I would consider that laying down your life for your people.” She was a walking contradiction with the stuff she was saying. How easily he had forgotten the restrictions that were placed on her. However, he was having a hard time knowing if it was unusual to her or if that was how princesses were generally treated.

He was inwardly amused how they had gone from her wanting to be at his throat to explaining how washing clothes wasn’t rough on her skin. He nodded, finding it interesting that she liked working with pasta. He had found that most people who worked in the palace to maintain it were rather possessive and didn’t like someone else to invade their area. He was curious how she had managed to get them to be so open to her.

When she said that personal space didn’t matter he figured that it’d work out. He naturally tended to give people personal space as he liked to work by himself. He cocked his head as he had never considered not marrying a non-royal or noble. He supposed that did really make it much more free. He had the sense to know that she wouldn’t like it if he mentioned his thought process about that. He was surprised how committed to the marriage she was. She was willing to be abused to make peace. It made him think that he needed to reexamine what he was willing to sacrifice.

He hid the smile that threatened to upturn the corners of his mouth when he asked about her best friend. Apparently, this was something else she liked to talk about or maybe what she considered saying was amusing. “Ah, not liking royalty. That’ll be tough,” he sighed realizing he’d have to mentally prepare to have her in his household. “Sounds riveting,” he automatically responded when “Sabrina” mentioned that she had a rough background. “Pestering works,” he smirked and let out a snort. “Can you imagine me pestering her to get her to break down her walls and tolerate me? I’ll keep an eye out for her at the ball then.”

_____

A few days later Belseleth was riding his horse in the forest. He was trying to escape the hustle and bustle of the castle. Nowhere was quiet as the servants worked to scrub and clean for the ball that was happening this evening. They had not been given a lot of notice and he had observed a lot of anxiety among the servants. He didn't want to get in their way, and he enjoyed being outdoors. A few days ago he had been remeasured for an outfit to wear to the masquerade. Along with his parents' costumes their personal tailor would be kept very busy. Many nobles wanted new clothes to show off at the ball as well, so the tailors were becoming overbooked and having to deal with anxious angry aristocrats.

The trees were gently swaying in the continuous wind. It was a sunny day with very few clouds marring the bright blue sky. He smiled slightly as he basked in the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, and he inhaled deeply enjoying the fresh mountain air. Belseleth was keeping an eye out for prey for his Peregrine falcon although his falcon would spot the prey much sooner than he would. He rode his horse slowly. He let his falcon go to catch the mouse scurrying underneath a shrub. He had been out for a while and decided that he had had enough. He let his falcon eat the mouse as her reward before turning his horse to return to the castle.

He stopped his horse near a cliff with a magnificent view of the other mountains into the valley. He could a river winding below. He couldn't imagine living on flatlands after living in the mountains. It would seem so boring and continuous. He liked not knowing what was around the corner making even the familiar more of an adventure than it should be. When he returned to the castle he took care of his falcon and made sure she was settled in the eyrie. He headed to his room to bathe and change clothes. He wore something very basic and plain but comfortable so that hopefully he would be able to tolerate the stuffy fancy clothing tonight. He also hated wearing something over his face, or he could get used to being comfortable and be extra grumpy when he was forced to change for the ball. That did seem more likely. In his plain white shirt and tan pants he could be mistaken for a poor noble. He had known many noble families who squandered their wealth and were left destitute.

He was a little surprised by how little he had seen the princess since their first meeting. It had only been a day or so, but he had expected to bump into her at some point. He supposed that it was because her father was very protective of her. A few days ago he had taken The Ancient Power out of the library to reread it. He had it in his study along with many other books he was looking through. He tried to see the book from her point of view and glean more about “Sabrina” from what he had learned about her during their first meeting.

After his bath he went back to taking notes from the book he was reading. He hoped that it would help him remember the information better and it would give him a summary to look at later to prompt his memory. He had almost finished The Ancient Power, so he would be returning the book soon and looking for something else to read for fun. He had made short work of it. He was drawing diagrams in his sketchbook for an invention he had in mind. He knew that it would take a lot of tinkering to get it right as visualizing and drawing from his head were not talents that he possessed. It was an improvement on an older model. He was not the best inventor, but he had managed to improve a few things that were already invented.

He was tired of trying to see the little pieces even in the bright lighting, so he rewarded himself by finishing the book he was reading for fun. He also thought a slight stretch of his legs would help his brain work better, so he made a beeline for the library. He opened the doors and wandered around not expecting anyone else to be there. As intelligent as his parents were, they claimed they did not have time to read. He could live in the library if he were given the chance and did not understand what kind of excuse they were giving. It seemed very lame. He heard the noise around the corner of the bookshelf. He rounded the corner and came face to face with Geneieve and Sabrina.

“Good day princess, m’lady,” he slightly bowed and inclined his head once toward both of them. He recognized Geneieve easily although she was not dressed as nicely as Sabrina. “I did not realize you would be here at this time.” There was a slight apologetic note to his voice. “I hope you don’t mind that I too came here looking for a book. I didn’t mean to bother anyone. What are you doing here? Is there a certain area of studying you are focusing on?” He felt too awkward to walk away but there was nowhere natural for him to go either. He started walking over toward where there were some instruments propped up near the wall. “I was actually considering strumming on the lute. I’m not very good, but I can play a melody." He was quiet for a moment and an awkward silence filled the space between them. Are you both ready for the ball tonight? I wouldn’t mind some more practice dancing. How do you feel about it? I heard that both of you were attending.”

“What is your favorite dance or your favorite song? I can try to play it.” While he distracted them with words, he pulled the book The Ancient Power he had kept discreetly by his side and subtly placed it back on the shelf in its proper place. He reached for the lute and strummed a few warm up chords and then a couple scales. He tuned the lute and nodded satisfied that it sounded the way it was supposed to. “Do either one of you play? What have you been doing since we last saw each other?” He cast a gaze over both of them not minding if either spoke. He kept an eye on “Genevieve” trying to determine how annoyed she was already with him.

"How as your visit been so far?" he asked the young woman whom he had not spoken to yet. Was this the notorious Genevieve? "Have you been looking for a specific book? I am very familiar with the library. Almost as familiar as the librarian. I am sure I could help you find something. What do you think of masquerades versus a ball or what do you think of balls in general?" he kept his tone light and conversational.

A few days later, Geneviève was in the training rink of the castle. She wore a pair of pants and a blank tank top paired with some boots. Her hair was pulled back in a braid, having a few strains sway in the light breeze as she stood in the shade. Droplets of sweat rolled down her face, neck, and arms from the training session she did with a fellow guard that came with them from Alynthi. Her chest heaved as she took in deep breaths to settle down and to calm the raging thumping of her heart. She needed this training session after meeting with Belseleth the first day and being hounded by the King and Sabrina after she left him. They wouldn't leave her alone the past few days and she had enough of them trying to get information out of her. She ended up sneaking out of her room after lunch and asked a servant where the training rink was. She's been here ever since then. She doesn't want to return but she knows she has too.

She let a sigh out as she tilted her head up towards the sky, thinking of what shapes the clouds in the sky could be. She learned something after being with Belseleth that she has been absolutely furious with. She found out that after seeing him, she has to continue acting like Sabrina. To say she was furious was an understatement. She was utterly livid. She thought it was just a one time thing and she would be done, but no, she has to continue being Sabrina. Though, at the masquerade Sabrina will be dancing with Bel since he won't know it isn't Gen with Sabrina having a mask on. Then she can learn herself firsthand how Belseleth is. Had she known that she has to continue acting as Sabrina until they can come forward and reveal the switch they did, she wouldn't have agreed to this. She would've pushed for a different solution or at least be within proximity of Sabrina at all times whenever she was with Belseleth. Now she is stuck like this for who knows how long.

She has been avoiding the prince at all costs though. She didn't want to bump into him so soon after just visiting him. She asked where the prince was when she asked the servant for directions to the rink. When the servant said that he was out of the castle, she knew she didn't have to worry about bumping into him in this state or asking why she was here in the rink. She sheathed her sword in the scabbard as she turned towards the guard. She shooed him away, telling him to go back to his duties. She wanted a bit of alone time before she went back to her room to cleanse herself of the layer of sweat on her body. She also knew that Sabrina will be waiting in her room. She doesn't know why the woman is so persistent on every detail when she will be seeing the prince at the masquerade shortly and see firsthand how he is.

After doing some stretches to loosen her muscles out and cool down, she started to make her way back to her room. She walked slowly on purpose so she didn't get barreled with an overexcited princess the minute she opened the doors to her bed chambers. She smiled at the servants bustling around the castle as she walked by them. Most of them didn't notice she was there with how busy they were getting ready for the masquerade. She would help them if they asked, but she has a feeling they rather do everything themselves like the servants in Alynthi. Though, she wasn't as helpful to the servants as Sabrina was. Unlike Sabrina who likes to be around people, she tends to try and stay away from them and only converse with them when needed. She wasn't much of a people person, yet she acted like she is with how easily she is able to talk to someone.

She rounded the corner when she bumped into someone, causing her to stumble a few steps back and bracing her hand on the wall to steady herself. She was about to lash out at whoever ran into her until she saw a young woman servant on her knees and muttering sorry for bumping into her. She seemed nervous, timid perhaps, and fearful that she will get scolded. She let a sigh out, knowing she can't yell at the young girl since she had boxes in her hands that she couldn't see over. It was also her fault for not paying attention to her surroundings. She reached out and gently grabbed the servants hands and tugged her gently to her feet. "Nothing to be sorry about. Just pay more attention, alright?" She gave the servant a small smile before walking around her and quickly making the rest of the distance to her room.

She stopped outside the doors, her shoulders rolling to prepare herself for the sudden rush of questions. She opened the door and closed it behind her, seeing Sabrina sitting at the table in her room reading a book. She smiled slightly at her, not yet noticing that she is in the room. The princess looked similar to her, which is why she was chosen to pose as Sabrina in the first place. Sabrina's auburn hair was a shade darker and a bit shorter than hers. Their eyes were definitely different. While hers were heterochromatic, Sabrina's were a soft honey. Sabrina was shorter and her frame was rather petite while hers was more filled out and had the muscles from training constantly. Obviously their face structure is a bit different, but overall pretty similar.

She unbuckled the belt that held her sword and let it drop rather loudly on the table, causing Sabrina to jump and throw her book in the air. She let a laugh leave her lips, causing the princess to only pout at her as she got up and picked her book off of the ground. "Gen, that was rather rude! Now I have to figure out what page I was on before you startled me." She pouted as she started to flip through the pages of her book. Gen chuckled as she walked past Sabrina, patting her head as she headed to the bathroom. "Not my fault you didn't notice I entered the room." She countered as she stripped her sweat soaked clothes off and pushed them in a pile with her foot to the side. She got into the tub and soaked in the water that Sabrina had already prepared for her, probably knowing she needed it after she came back. "Not the point!" Sabrina yelled from the bedroom before Gen heard her giggle with glee that she found the page she left off on.

Luckily for her, Sabrina didn't talk to her while she soaked in the bath for a bit before scrubbing her hair and washing it out. She made sure she scrubbed her skin really well to get rid of the sweat and grit from training. Once she was done, she got out and wrapped a towel around her frame and padded out of the bathroom. She saw Sabrina already looking through her closet and picking out a dress. Her brows raised, wondering why she has to wear a dress but then remembered she is acting as the princess and needs to dress this way. "Where are you taking me?" She asked, knowing Sabrina is only getting clothes out to bring her somewhere. She watched as Sabrina spun around with a ruby red dress with silver embroidery and diamonds around the neckline against her chest and a smile on her lips. "To the library. I'm about done with the book I currently have and want to have a book within reach once I'm done wikth it." She said as she set the dress on the bed before going back to the closet to grab some shoes and jewelry.

Gen sighed as she dried off, putting on some undergarments before she stood in front of the dress and looked at it laying on her bed. She groaned at wearing another one of these stupid things after feeling like she suffocated in the last one. She is being dramatic obviously, but she can't help it when she hated how they clung to her curves and made her look like a proper lady. She grumbled under her breath as she put the dress on, slightly struggling to where Sabrina had to help her shimmy her way in it. "This is ridiculous." She said, her voice having a squeak to it as she saw that it revealed a bit too much of her cleavage. Sure, it might be Sabrina's taste to show a bit, but it wasn't hers. "Hey now, Gen. You can't complain as you are acting as me." Sabrina stated as she started to put a diamond necklace, bracelet, and earrings on Gen. Gen grumbled under her breath as she snatched the ruby red shoes that Sabrina handed her after putting her jewelry on. She sat on the edge of the bed as she put her shoes on. "I'm only doing a braid. Nothing else." She said, her tone holding no room for argument as she pulled her hair over her shoulder and started to braid it.

Once she was done, she got up and headed towards the door before Sabrina grabbed her hand to stop her. She looked back at the princess, her brow raised as to why she is stopping her from leaving. "Scar, remember?" She completely forgot about that, causing another grumble of curse words to leave her lips as she made her way to the bathroom to put the magical cream on her face. Once that was said and done as well as adding a bit of makeup, she turned around in a circle this time for Sabrina to see to ensure she is presentable this time. "Perfect!" She exclaimed as she grabbed the book from the table before they set out to the library.

"You know I'm still not happy with this arrangement." She stated quietly as they walked down the hallway with a guard trailing behind them. Sabrina shrugged her shoulders, seeming not to be too worried about their arrangement. "You could've said no and thought of a different approach, but you didn't. Don't complain." She said as she flicked Gen on the forehead as they turned into the library. Gen rubbed the spot the princess flicked and frowned. Times like this she wonders why she is friends with Sabrina. "I can't do this forever. Once I get everything your father wants, I'm done and won't be doing this arrangement again. This isn't me and you know that." She heard Sabrina sigh as she walked slowly down the aisle of books looking at the titles. She knows that Sabrina feels somewhat bad about the situation, especially since her father can't seem to let go of her leash a little bit to be one step closer to having the freedom she craves. "I know. I hope it won't be long. You could walk away but you haven't because you care about me and want to ensure that this arrangement will be safe for me." Sabrina said as she pulled a book off from the shelf.

She opened her mouth to speak when she heard footsteps approaching them. She turned towards the general direction and soon saw Belseleth pop out from the shelves. Of course he had to be here of all days. Then again, she can't complain since it would've been bad if she bumped into him at the training rink. She hopes that he didn't hear anything they were just talking about or it could potentially not be good with what comes next. He seemed not to hear what they said, which causes her to relax slightly. She kept her guard up though, considering that Sabrina is now in the proximity of the prince.

They both inclined their heads towards the prince in greeting. She took a deep breath to get into character and hopes that either Sabrina will stay quite or will somehow be able to pass as her. "You see, I wanted to go to the library for a book and dragged Geneviève with me since she seemed ever so lonely." She said with a smile on her face, causing a small snort to come from Sabrina. She had to hold back the small laugh that wanted to escape. "We honestly don't mind considering that this is your home after all. If anything, I hope you don't mind us imposing on you with being in the library." She looked over at Sabrina, surprised to see a neutral look on her face. It is definitely something she never sees since she is always so used to seeing a smile on her face. Her attention went back to the prince when he continued talking. "Oh, no. Not right now, that is. I came more just to read more of a light book if there is one to help relax." She said, not entirely lying as she was going to look for a book while Sabrina tried to find whatever she was looking for.

She noticed that he started to walk toward some instruments on the wall. She figured she should probably follow so she did. She stopped when he did as he stated what is on his mind. He wanted to strum the lute? She wouldn't mind that as she enjoys music so much. Sabrina enjoyed music but not as much as she did. She could dance so effortlessly with the music, even if she might be a bit clumsy at times. Then he asked about the ball and she had try not to look over at Sabrina for an answer. "Indeed we are. I can't wait to see it and what everyone is going to wear." She said with a small smile on her lips. She shrugged her shoulders, not minding if she could use more practice. "I suppose I could as Geneviève tries to lead me on a dance." She had to hold back a smirk, knowing that Sabrina wouldn't be able to lead to save her life like she would be able to do. "I don't have favorites but anything soft like petals or the sound of rainfall." She suggested as she she noticed him put a book on the shelf. She pretended that she didn't see it but will look at what he was reading later when he is no longer around.

"We don't play but we have a fellow friend that likes to play for us at times." Xander was always one to try to please the women with his talents. Even though he was never able to snag their attention regardless of what he tried to do, he became their friend and they would sometimes stay up all night doing pointless things. He was a blacksmith for the castle and always kind, someone that he though Sabrina would fall for but the princess never did oddly enough. "Not much. I've been reading or talking to Geneviève or my father." She noticed that his gaze strayed over towards Sabrina, causing her to stiffen slightly but it wasn't noticeable.

When he asked Sabrina how her stay has been, she turned towards the princess to see how her acting would be. "It could be better." She said with a cold tone, her shoulders shrugging to brush the question away and not wanting to elaborate further. Well, maybe Sabrina could pull her off after all. Maybe the princess spent enough time with her that she is able to act like her in a way. "I rather have a librarian help me find what I want rather than a prince." She practically spat the word 'prince' when she spoke it, once again surprised that she could act this way. "Gen!" She said, acting mortified. "I'm sorry that she is acting this way. Like I said when I first met you, she doesn't take kindly to us." She said, elaborating in case he forgot. She hopes that he keeps his cool as she isn't sure how far Sabrina will be able to act. She feels like she might have a breaking point and she doesn't want the prince to view her as a weakling if Sabrina breaks down from his words.

She decided to answer his question before more could be said. "I love masquerades. They are always so mysterious and magical. I like not knowing who I am going to be dancing with. As for just a ball in general, they are not too bad. I still enjoy the dancing and talking with people but not as much as if I were to go to a masquerade." She said, knowing that Sabrina love's masquerades with all her heart. As for her, she could care less for either one. She would rather be left alone and dance in her privacy than with people. At least at a masquerade know one knows who she is.

She shifted on her feet as she turned towards the bookshelf and let her fingers gently run along the spines. She hummed as she glanced over each title, not looking for anything in general. "How have you been? What have you been up to? And what is your view between masquerade and balls?" She asked as she turned her head slightly towards him. She wanted him to know that she was still listening as she skimmed over the titles. "Would you like to meet me somewhere before or do you want to find me during the masquerade?"