𝓕𝓻𝓸𝔃𝓮𝓷 𝓗𝓾𝓮 [Slow Updates]

A Meeting with the Ivory Princess

Ben meticulously adjusted his shirt, then took a steadying breath before rapping on the dorm door. Swift footsteps approached from within, and Ben took a moment to gather his thoughts. As the door swung open, he was met with the presence of a striking young woman, her brunette hair adorned with a distinctive streak of silver.

"Prince Ben," the maiden greeted, her head inclining in recognition. Ben reciprocated with a warm smile and a respectful nod. "Princess."

The princess widened the door's aperture, granting him entry. Stepping inside, Ben found himself amidst a room bathed in shades of frost. The princess' aesthetic favored simplicity, her surroundings awash in varying tones of white. Bed, floor, walls, chair, table, and even her notebooks adhered to this monochromatic palette, drawing parallels to her own fair complexion. Amused by the stark white atmosphere, Ben couldn't help but chuckle inwardly at the notion that the princess could practically blend into her surroundings.

His mirth was curtailed as the princess directed her gaze toward him, prompting him to study her more closely. Her skin was so pale that it seemed almost translucent, an observation that momentarily amused him. He then observed the only exception to the color scheme: her door, himself, and the elegant royal blue coat with gold accents that adorned the princess.

Shaking off his musings, Ben recentered himself as the princess queried, "How can I assist you?" She gracefully took a seat, her eyes fixed on him with an unwavering gaze.

"Well, you're aware that the coronation day is drawing near, aren't you?" Ben began, feeling a touch uneasy under her scrutiny.

"I am indeed," the princess affirmed, her gaze unyielding.

Ben cleared his throat, his resolve firm. "I thought it might be valuable to seek your opinion on a matter. You see, for my first official proclamation as king, I intend to offer the children from the Isle of the Lost the opportunity to reside here in Auradon."

The princess' expression shifted subtly, a flicker of intrigue crossing her features. Ben braved the intensity of her gaze, his heart pounding as he elaborated on his plan.

"Upon reflecting, it's come to my attention that we've perhaps forsaken them. The children of villains deserve a chance, to not be confined there any longer."

The princess rose from her chair, her gaze distant as she moved about the room. A faint smile tugged at her lips, unbeknownst to Ben. Interesting, she mused.

As Ben continued explaining, she retook her seat, her questions probing and insightful. She inquired about the practicality of his plan, the potential challenges, and how the children would be integrated into Auradon's society.

Ben articulated his plan, his confidence bolstered by the princess' measured engagement. "Fairy Godmother will oversee a course in goodness for them, and there won't be guards constantly shadowing them. I want them to truly feel at home here."

The princess' gaze met Ben's directly, her expression unyielding. "Depends on whose children."As the conversation progressed, Ben listed the children he had chosen, hoping to secure the princess' support. He was met with silence for each name: Jafar, Cruella de Vil, Evil Queen, and Maleficent. His concern grew with her reticence. Perhaps she was withholding judgment until the end.

Her gaze finally flicked up to meet his as he mentioned Maleficent. A chuckle escaped her lips, a rare moment of animated emotion.

Taken aback, Ben confessed, "I'm not joking."

The princess' laughter subsided, her expression returning to its usual inscrutable veneer. "Yes, I know."

Perplexed, Ben furrowed his brow. "I don't understand."

"Do your parents know of this plan?" The princess shifted topics, her arms crossed. A glint of amusement twinkled in her eyes, too subtle for Ben to perceive.

"They do, and they've reluctantly approved," Ben replied, his thoughts still fixated on the princess' prior laughter.

Satisfied with his answer, the princess provided her assessment. "As long as every detail is thoroughly planned and secured, your idea holds potential."

A sense of relief washed over Ben, and a bright smile graced his features. He felt grateful for the princess' validation, and yet he hesitated to depart, expecting a formal farewell. Realizing he had to initiate his exit, he blushed slightly with embarrassment.

"Well, then, I should be on my way. Thank you, Princess." Ben bowed respectfully, and the princess mirrored his gesture. As he shut the door behind him, a voice rang out from the hallway."Prince Ben!" Startled, he halted and turned to face her.

"I am your royal advisor, and you are soon to be king. It is my duty to scrutinize every word you speak. While I believe you will make a fine ruler, exude confidence in your decisions. Your presentation came across as hesitant, casting doubt upon your proclamation. People won't trust a leader who seems unsure of his own words."

Ben flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and gratitude. His ego stung, but he understood the princess' intention. He nodded earnestly and made his exit. As the door closed, the princess rolled her eyes and leaned against the doorframe, a slight smile tugging at her lips.