𝐅𝐀𝐓𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐓𝐓𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍; 𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐍

5

Amidst the harsh winter storms that raged outside, the prince found himself poring over maps and reports from his trusted generals, discussing the ongoing war effort against the Marley empire. The reports outlined the extent of the casualties and losses sustained by their army, as well as the next course of action that needed to be taken. As he read through each report with a discerning eye, he couldn't help but think back to his conversation with you earlier that day. your words had brought him a sense of warmth and comfort that he sorely needed amidst the bleakness of war.

He reflected on your words, realizing that you were a humble young girl who had brought a sense of beauty and hope into his life. He knew he didn't want anything to change between the two of you. With a heavy sigh, he decided to take a break from the reports and walked over to the window, report in hand. As he gazed out at the window, he noticed that the snow was beginning to pick up, making it difficult to see outside.

"It sure is snowing out there," he murmured to himself, extending a hand out to watch the snowflakes twirl down and land softly onto his hand. His thoughts then drifted back to his conversation with you, your words resonating within him like a sweet melody. It was a moment of beauty amidst the chaos of war.

After a full hour had passed in the meeting chambers, you gracefully entered the room with a tray of tea for the young prince and the generals. As you made your way towards the table, all eyes turned towards you. You offered a polite nod and a warm smile, hoping that your sudden appearance wasn't considered impolite or unannounced.

"I apologize for the intrusion, your highness," you spoke softly. "It is quite cold today, and I would feel terrible if any of you caught a cold in such a chilly room." You proceeded to set out the tea for everyone, ensuring that each cup was perfectly placed in front of its intended recipient. Then, you rekindled the fire and bowed respectfully before the group.

The prince's attention was immediately drawn away from the reports and maps on the table and towards you. He turned slightly, his emerald green eyes meeting your gaze. A soft smile formed on his face in response to your kindness.

"No, no, please don't apologize, Venus," he spoke kindly. "Your actions are truly appreciated. Please, have a seat... there is an empty chair right beside me." He extended his hand towards the seat and went over to his chair at the meeting table.

You looked at the seat, then back at him, unsure of whether to accept his offer. "Oh, I couldn't... it's not my place, your highness," you murmured softly.

The prince chuckled, noticing the uncertainty in your expression. He could tell that you wanted to sit beside him, but your humble nature was holding you back. He shook his head and gave you his gentle smile once more, waving his hand towards the chair.

"Please, Venus, sit with us. Your presence is most welcome here."

"Excuse me, my lord... I'm not sure if I should be present for this meeting," you spoke softly, your tone respectful yet hesitant. The prince's kind smile grew even warmer as he looked at you, seeming to radiate a sense of gentleness and innocence that made you feel at ease. It was as if you couldn't speak ill of him, even if you wanted to.

The prince sighed and turned his attention to the council members and generals. "Gentlemen, if you would excuse us for a moment," he said, his voice courteous. "Please, please excuse us." With that, he stood up from his seat and walked over to the tea set, gesturing for you to follow him.

As they stood together by the tea set, the prince looked at you with a gentle smile. "My dear, may I ask you a question?" he asked in a soft voice. "Do you believe your ears are capable of listening? What I mean to say is, can you keep a secret if I were to tell you something?"