As Kamaria's journey unfolds, she discovers the true nature of power and the sacrifices that come with it. She must navigate through political alliances, betrayal, and treacherous plots to secure her place as Queen of Scotland. Along the way, she le...
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Later that day, Kamaria joined Tomás for a horseback ride through the woods. Despite her lingering fear from a previous unsettling visit, a small smile graced her face as the wind wove through her brownish-black hair. Tomás, glancing back, guided them toward an old church.
Nearing the church, Kamaria's expression turned to one of puzzlement, and she inquired, "What is this place?" Tomás, after a brief survey of the area, met her eyes and replied, "This is an ancient church, built by Louis VII with the intention of lasting forever, yet... nothing truly does."
Halting their journey, Tomás dismounted and extended his hand to Kamaria, aiding her descent with care, which coaxed a gentle smile from her lips. With a curious tilt of her brow, Kamaria inquired, "To what purpose have you led me to this place?"
"I am in need of your wisdom," Tomás confessed as an attendant neared, bearing a chest overflowing with jewels. "These were brought from my vessel moored in the harbor. The New World has blessed us with wealth beyond our wildest dreams. Could these opulent gifts persuade a lady to look upon me with favor?"
Kamaria's smile was tinged with amusement, convinced he meant Zahria, as the brown-haired girl was smitten with him. "I believe you may have a chance," she responded.
Tomás extended his hand to open the chest, unveiling a spectacular collection of gold and jewels that shimmered in the sunlight.
He then plucked a ring from the chest and sent his servant away before spinning around, beaming. "I'm pleased you think so," he declared, sinking to one knee and offering the ring to the Queen.
Maria's eyes widened in shock, and she gasped, her face etched with confusion. She glanced around awkwardly, shook her head slightly, and trailed off, "I don't understand. Weren't you and Zahria..."
"What does Zahria have to do with this?" Tomás inquired, shaking his head as he stood up. "She's a lovely girl, but... when I see you... I can't look away. There's a wildness in you when you play, ride, and climb trees." Kamaria smiled, casting her gaze downward.
Tomás, wearing a fond smile, thought of the brunette before him and continued, "I see your spirit... and I feel it's similar to mine. I would have kept these thoughts to myself, but I see your struggle here in France. Alone, left to fend for yourself. I'd never do that. Never. Marry me. Marry me, and you won't have to wait. Say yes, and you'll have your men. Just say yes."
Kamaria shrugged, struggling to articulate her thoughts. "Tomás... you are kind, handsome, and indeed charming..."
"I sense a 'but' coming," Tomás interjected, as Kamaria sighed and offered him an apologetic look, aware that marriage was impossible.
Maria took a deep breath, "However, I am a queen. Your attentions flatter me, but I am destined to marry for my nation, not just for love." Tomás exhaled slowly and produced a scroll from his belt, presenting it to Kamaria, who looked on with confusion and asked, "What is this?"
