The World Cannot Know

Chapter 1

(Edited) 

Matthew Wild

Living in different places was not really a problem for me as I have been doing this since I was a young boy. Being told what to do, how to dress and what you eat is part of my daily routine. Somewhat I'm use to and will never be accustom to something different. With my father being the Duke of Canterbury and I being his next heir it is only conventional, that I follow in his footsteps.

I'm not the only child to the Canterbury's, I have a sister. Katharina or to her close friends and family, known as Kathy, someone who I dearly love and quite protective over. Kathy is far fetching in her looks, with her gorgeous brunette hair that falls effortlessly down her back, her enticing gaze that will entrance anyone around her, but most of all the way she carries herself, elegance and power illuminates off her.

My family are currently preparing to visit the main city, Kinsley which is the current residence of the Royals. The reason of this trip is all daughters from households of importance are invited to a Ball, held by King and Queen of Dankworth. Everyone in the household must attend as it's a celebration in finding the next lady to be betrothed to Prince Sebastian of Dankworth. This ball will be held across three days and whoever is 'chosen' by the prince will end up staying longer.

The prince himself, does have a notorious history of vulgarity, deceitfulness and serious allegations of being a harlot. I do not know the prince himself nor have I ever met him. However, I am hoping that Kathy is not the one for him if these rumours are true.

"Sir everything is packed and ready to go" said my man servant, Henry

"Thank you, Henry," I replied, while buttoning my waistcoat.

I walk down to polished wooden stairs where I could see my mother, father and Kathy ready and mounting the carriage. The carriage was nothing fancy just black with enough space to fit us all in comfortably. The chauffeur was sitting in his seat ready to set off.

"Ahh there you are my son," said my father. "What took you long?"

"Just wrapping up some papers for work" I replied.

I looked over at Kathy who was dressed in something out of her usually attire. She wore an elegant ivory coloured dress with embroidered beads as flowers. She looked a little pale to the skin.

"There's no need to look like that Kathy, there's nothing to worry about." scowled my mother "He wouldn't want a wife who is weak; that shows you can't lead alongside him"

"Now, now mother everybody gets nervous before a big event" I said, trying to reassure her.

Kathy smiled at me, and mouthed a 'thank you'.

Throughout the journey, there was only little talk. As a family we are not very close, however when it comes to event such as this, we automatically become as the perfect family. A facade to the rest of the world.

...

The castle lay on a sloped hill with greenery all around. It stood there as if conjured from a children's fairy tale. It was perfect. It was almost impossible to not imagine the prince, princesses and knights in the courtyard. Every stone was even and square, as if it was built with perfection.

As the carriage tumbled down the long path that led up to thick golden gates. It was breath-taking sight to see the castle up front. The heavy doors lurched open and in front was the entrance and stood with glory was the door. As the carriage stopped, trumpets began to play loud and clear, beckoning our arrival.

"Welcome the Duke and Duchess of Canterbury." cried out the announcer.

I was off the carriage first, and held out my hand for Kathy. She took it and gracefully walked out. Just then the door opened and there stood the Royals, in all their glory. Power, fame, and sophistication radiated off them. The only person who was absent was the prince himself. My parents followed behind as Kathy and I made our way closer to them.