Electric Blue Rose - Book One. [COMPLETED] Undergoing Edits

Chapter Forty-Two - The Invitational

Queen Marianna came down the stairs putting her earrings on to complete her outfit. Today was the day of Jade's invitational, and she refused to be late. A Princess such as Jade would be in high demand the instant the other kingdoms met her, but they had an advantage.

"Come, boys," She called out.

Charles sat on the couch with a paper in hand. He'd been ready for the better part of an hour, waiting as the rest of them finished getting ready. Sebastian crossed down and spun, showing off his white suit with the red cape that flowed around him. Jewels decorated the pockets and buttons of his suit. His long brown hair flowed down past his shoulders.

"I'm ready to win the heart of another princess," Sebastian proclaimed. Marianna laughed and rolled her eyes. "Well, mother, you met her. Going to tell us anything about her yet?"

"No, no. We refuse to ruin the surprise," Marianna glanced up at the stairwell. "Emanuel, hurry along."

Emanuel appeared at the top of the stairs and sighed. He dressed in a pinstripe blue suit much like his father's. His brown hair slicked over one side, and blue eyes sent girls chasing him. None of which ever captured his interest. "Mother, do I have to go? We know how this will go down. You'll force me to meet her, and her eyes will move directly to Sebastian. I'd rather stay home reading than have to appear rude and hide in the corner of their castle."

"Well, then don't bring a book," Marianna proclaimed. "You're coming, and that's final. Besides, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised."

"That's what you always say," Emanuel sighed and crossed down, "but for you, mother, I'll do it. I probably won't enjoy myself, though."

"Give her a chance," Marianna said, adjusting his tie. "Alright, boys, let's get going."

The family gathered around Brent, the family teleporter, as they teleported to the Enlightened's castle. Upon arriving, they all looked around, impressed by the flowers that led into the castle. Welcoming doors led them into a decorated room. Tables of food and drinks were positioned around clothed tables. Adjacent to the main room, the ballroom doors were open. Topiaries of roses invite them inside.

"Charles, Marianna!" Topaz exclaimed, crossing to them and proceeding with their formalities. "Ah, yes. Prince Sebastian and Emanuel, what a pleasure to have both of Thundaars princes here at our castle. Please indulge yourselves. We're waiting for Retedian to show. Prince Avery of Chaanda has arrived." Topaz gestured. "Do you need a formal introduction?"

"No, no. We've become well acquainted," Queen Marianna explained. "Besides, you should be attending to your daughter. Her first invitational can send nerves through even the most leveled young ladies."

"Yes," Topaz bowed his head. "We'll be seeing you shortly."

'May I find a place to sit now, mother?" Emanuel asked. They watched Sebastian stray away, introducing himself to anyone and everyone who would glance at him. Emanuel's eyes rolled.

"Emanuel, I know I raised you not to show such rude behavior. Come, we need to make around with Prince Avery." Emanuel sighed and followed her and Charles towards Prince Avery.

"Ah, Queen Marianna and King Charles. Oh, Prince Emanuel, it's great to see you in attendance." Emanuel bowed in respect. Prince Avery's arms extended in a sizeable gracious embrace between them all. "Isn't this exciting? Though I heard you've already received a glimpse of this mysterious new princess?"

"We have," Queen Marianna said, gesturing to herself and Charles. "We've left the boys in the dark."

"Oh good, then it's not completely rigged." Prince Avery said with a laugh. While Marianna knew some of the other kingdoms would not show themselves until the formal presentation, it was no secret that Prince Avery would be regarded highly. He was tall, slim, and had great green eyes that stood out brilliantly with his white hair. His tattoos of a hawk showed the bravery and bond that he had to the creatures of his kingdom. Jade made a point to say that creatures were an interest of hers. "Oh, looks like the family from Retedian has arrived. We should mingle."

They all shifted towards them. Retedian was the last kingdom to have a presentable princess, but young prince Ariel of Sasta quickly swept her up. "Asher and Lily, it's so lovely to see you both again," Marianna enthused, kissing them each. "I hear your kingdom is functioning brilliantly. We should get together for tea soon."

"Yes, we should!" Lily enthused. "Of course, you've met our daughter, Abigail." Abigail dressed in a gorgeous slimming red gowned that complimented her pale red hair. Her hair curled on both sides of her shoulders, every detail perfect.

"Of course, you look beautiful," Marianna enthused. "And look at you, Asher, what a handsome young man. It's so nice for you to attend this invitational."

"It's hard not to show to such an unexpected event. I mean, a secret princess?" Abigail enthused. "Tell me that's not the most exciting thing since our marriage." They all shared a laugh. "You've met her, yes?"

"Charles and I have, yes. Our sons have no clue what to expect. She truly is lovely."

"It'll be so nice to have another female royal so close to my age," Abigail enthused. "I hope she's interested in a friendship with us. I recall how busy the first year of presentation could be."

"I can assure you. Jade seems very open-hearted to meeting others. She truly was an angel at dinner." Marianna smiled. Charles and Asher walked off, each with a drink in their hand. Marianna turned as the music started. All of their gazes shot up to the staircase where Jade stood. Her father's arms looped with hers, helping her down the stairs. Jade wore a beautiful green gown that appeared like vines of roses wrapped around her. Jade was decorated with jewels of their kingdom. Marianna noticed Sebastian's womanizer smirk as he stared at her, but her heart warmed when she turned to Emanuel. Emanuel's mouth parted as his eyes steadied on her. Jade's eyes landed on her, her smile widening. Marianna bowed in respect. The night was about to begin, and she couldn't wait to see the magic unravel.