The Traitor's Wish

2. The Ceremony's Secret

The Traitor's Wish
Chapter 2
The Ceremony's Secret

Emma was left, staring bewilderedly into the flower from the stranger. No one was ever so bold to treat her like that. Yes, he had been a gentle men, but not stiff, lifeless, and shy like the others. First he had run into her, surely it was just an accident, but most are more careful, especially when walking down her own hallway. But not only had he then caught her, he had the nerve to pick up her crown and place it on her head.

It was definitely a change for Princess Emma. She was not complaining- it had surely been an interesting experience- but she was expecting an explanation later. From his mysterious eyes, she doubted she would ever get one.

The thing that worried her the most, had to do with her father. She knew he had talked to all of them about how to treat her. No personal contact with the princess was his biggest and strongest rule for the guards. This man, Kade, had the guts to kiss her hand.

She let out a shaky breath just as Regina stepped out of the parlor. "That was interesting." She said with a grin.

Her eyes grew wide as she realized what the queen was talking about. "You saw that?" She asked quickly.

"Of corse dear, how do you think I get all the good gossip?" Grandmother asked with a grin.

The princess grabbed her sleeve and pleaded, "Please don't tell Father. He'd dismiss him immediately." Her eyes were filled with fear for the stranger. She did not know why, but if he was dismissed before she figured him out, it would drive her mad.

"Oh sweetie, he would probably hang him." She said with a laugh, joking about the fathers over protective nature, but the young girl looked even more fearful.

She sighed, "I won't tell him, dear, but the way he treated you.." She stopped with a roll of he eyes and flick of the wrist. "Let's just say I'm keeping my eyes on him, and you."

"Thank you Grandmother, but I can talk care of myself." She responded, pinning her crown in and sticking the flower behind her ear.

"Let's get to diner before your mom throws a fit." Regina said, leading the way down the staircase to the large dining room.
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The room was truly elegant in the dim lighting. Emma sat with her family and the Arrendale Royals at one round table. The pale blue roses looked perfect in the middle, and Anna had even mentioned how much she loved them. These guests were Emma's absolute favorites. Anna was her age, and her sister, Queen Elsa was a few years older. Anna had brought her fiancé, Kristoph and introduced him to the family. The head of guard had also come with them.

Around them at dozens of tables, sat the new guards. It was their initiation diner, and Emma had to admit, it was all a little overwhelming. She had been hoping to spot Kade, but strangely trying her best to avoid him.

Her mother had asked multiple times what was wrong, but she put on her best smile and said she was fine every time. Regina sat beside her with a knowing smirk, trying all dinner not to laugh.

It all rushed by as Elsa talked to her parents about trade routes, and Anna kept stealing Kristoph's chocolate, but soon the guests were headed to their rooms and it was unfortunately time to met the new guards.

David called the men to the courtyard and the family followed after. It had to be at least twenty new recruits, and her guess was proven when they lined up in four rows of five.

The day had faded into night as the last drop of sunlight disappeared. Butlers rushed around, lighting lanterns all around the palace to accompany the shining stars.