𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞 • ʰʸᵘⁿˡⁱˣ

Cherry Blossom

Cherry Blossoms are another spring blooming flower, that I think suits because it is spring in the story and Felix is from the Spring Court. Cherry Blossoms have become associated with living in the moment, taking time to appreciate things as they are at present, and not always looking at the distant future that is bound to change. They can also symbolise femininity. In this chapter, Felix is trying not to focus on how he has to try and win Hyunjin's heart. Instead, he tries to enjoy what he is wearing for the ball and how he feels beautiful in it.

I also rewatched the skz vlog of Felix, Hyunjin, and Jeongin getting their personal colour theory done. Lighter, pale tones suited Felix more, so I designed his dress off of that. Cherry Blossom petals are also a light pink color, which I feel like it makes it a good choice.

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Felix

Five Hours Earlier

Felix stared at the dress on the mannequin his mother had made for him. The rose-pink and ivory satin ball gown had been specifically designed for the Summer Cout ball. She wanted Felix in light colours that made his skin glow and showcased the Spring Court. As the daughter of the Spring Court's capital, it was only right that he stood out compared to the others.

The dress's bodice was a puffball sleeve, off-the-shoulder, ivory top, topped with a rose-pink corset that laced up with an ivory ribbon in the back, and came down in a 'v' at the front. A petticoat was hidden under a layer of ivory satin, then an ivory lace with cherry blossoms embroidered across and bunched into ruffles at the hem. On top, a rose-pink satin curtained around the back and sides, leaving the front open for the lace to be seen. As Felix walked the satin would shimmer underneath. On his bed, a matching cloak was folded along with a pair of ivory long-sleeve gloves, and a pearl necklace.

Felix couldn't deny that it was beautiful and that he was excited to wear it, however, the dress was a reminder of his duties for the night. His mother would most likely be monitoring him the whole time, while also trying to get him near to the Prince. Felix hoped Minho would be able to come up with an excuse to let him hide away for a bit, even if it was just for a minute.

"Are you ready, Your Royal Highness?" Chaeryeong said, coming to stand beside the Princess—a set of towels folded across her arms.

Felix hummed. At least he could enjoy the night knowing that he did feel beautiful in the dress.

"I'm glad you like it, daughter." Felix's mother stood to his other side. She wanted to see Felix's expression when he first saw the dress and could easily say she was pleased when Felix broke into a wide smile. "I believe you are going to outshine many there."

"Thank you, mother, for having this wonderful dress made for me." Felix's appreciation was genuine.

"Good, now let's get you bathed and glistening." His mother led the way and watched over as Felix was prepared. It was bad to think of her daughter as a product, but everyone had their duties.

"Have you been remembering the information I got for you about Prince Hwang Hyunjin?" Felix's mother spoke, looking at his reflection in the mirror as his hair was dried and styled.

"Yes, mother. You may test me." Felix worked hard to not disappoint or risk offending his mother at the ball.

The Queen cleared her throat. "Very good. I'll start easy then they'll get more difficult. Your first question is, when is the Prince's birthday?"

"March twentieth. Today is his twentieth birthday. There are one-hundred and seventy-four days between our birthdays."

The Corner of the Queen's lip lifted into a small smile as Felix replied with more information than needed. "Where did the Prince grow up?"

"In the capital of the Summer Court, the Dawn region. He grew up with his Cousin, Princess Hwang Yeji, she will also be attending the ball and is someone I should try to befriend."

The Queen hummed, happy with the answers. "Yes, Princess Yeji will mostly be next to Prince Hyunjin for much of the night. I believe her opinions will be taken into account by the Prince. Next question, who is the third cousin?"

"Prince Nishimura Riki. He lives abroad."

"Yes, however, he is currently here with his mother. His mother and the Prince's mother shall be overlooking all the women who enter the ball tonight. Make sure that you look presentable and be well-behaved at every moment. If you try and eat a grape and miss your mouth, or disrespectfully chew with your mouth open, it will ruin your chances. I already feel like you're at risk since your attendance record is low. From now on, you are no longer allowed to avoid making public appearances. I need you to be loved."

Felix glanced at his mother. "Of course, mother."

"Next question, what are the Prince's hobbies?"

"He enjoys training and fighting, but he also likes to read. The Prince has said that reading helps to calm him down after practice, it also teaches him new techniques and tactics."

"Close friends?"

"Lord Lee Dweahi from the Spring Court. His family lives over in the East. He will also be attending the ball."

"Yes, Lord Dweahi is an... interesting character. I do hope he doesn't cause too much of a commotion with his drinking. I'm sure the Prince will keep him in check to not embarrass himself. Anyway, you've done well with answering my questions, so I'll only ask you one more; what is the Prince's favourite food?"

"Sushi, and for fruit it is watermelon. He doesn't like onions, carrots, and eggplants." Felix let out a deep breath, no longer feeling like he was in the prosecution chair. He'd managed to answer all his mother's questions, now it was only a matter of time until he had to meet the Prince.

Chaeryeong stepped back, letting the Queen have a full view of Felix's hair and make-up. "All done, Your Majesty."

The Queen stood from the cushioned chair she'd reclined in, wearing a tight-lipped smile as she stood behind her daughter—hands on his shoulders. "Marvellous, I have no doubt in you getting the Prince's attention this evening."

Felix returned the smile—he looked so much like his mother. Chaeryeong had styled Felix's hair into a bun with a series of curls hanging down, framing his face. He didn't like how his make-up covered up his freckles, but he couldn't go against his mother's word, especially on a night like tonight. His lips were a soft pink, the same that dusted around his eyes. The bottom of his eye line had been traced black with kohl. The kohl was also used to darken and extend his eyelashes.

"Oh, daughter," his mother sang—a sign her next words may not be so loving "Tonight, you'll represent the Spring Court, the capital's family, and me." There it was—the sign for Felix to play puppet.

His mother proceeded to open a wooden box on the vanity table. Taking out the tiara, she places it on Felix's head. The tiara was made of platinum branches donned with diamonds cut to make flowers. A single tear-drop diamond hung from the tiara's peak.

Felix's smile grew feeling the weight of the tiara on his head. A part of him couldn't deny that he truly felt beautiful.

His mother hummed with Felix being ready for the ball. "Let's go, daughter. It'll be good to get there a bit early and talk with the others there."

"I'll see you later, Chaeryeong." Felix hugged her goodbye once his mother had left the room.

"Good luck," Chaeryeong wished, giving him a wink.

"Thank you," Felix giggled and hurried after his mother.

—ⅣⅤⅥ—

Thank you for reading

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