Legacy of The Enchanted

The Princess's Burden

(Alex's P.O.V)

It was a quiet morning when the messenger arrived at the palace, his footsteps echoing in the long corridors as he made his way to my chambers. Taryn was seated by the window, engrossed in a book, while I lounged on the chaise, absentmindedly sketching. The knock on the door startled us both.

"Enter," I called out, my voice calm and composed.

The door creaked open, and a young man dressed in the royal livery stepped inside, bowing deeply before presenting a sealed envelope on a silver tray. "A message from Her Majesty, The Queen," he announced.

I sighed, already suspecting what the message might contain. I took the envelope and dismissed the messenger with a nod. Taryn watched curiously as I broke the seal and unfolded the parchment.

"What is it?" she asked, setting her book aside.

My eyes skimmed the letter, my expression shifting from mild interest to weary resignation. "It's an invitation to a royal Valorian ball," I replied, unable to keep the hint of sarcasm from my tone. "Hosted by none other than my dear aunt."

Taryn frowned slightly. "A ball? That sounds... exciting?"

I let out a dry laugh. "Exciting isn't exactly the word I'd use. More like tedious, predictable, and full of stuffy old nobles who think too highly of themselves."

"But you've been to these events before, right?" she asked, still trying to understand my lack of enthusiasm.

"Too many times," I confirmed, tossing the letter onto the table. "My aunt loves throwing these grand affairs, and I'm expected to attend every single one. It's always the same—endless small talk, overly formal dances, and a parade of suitors who think they're charming."

Taryn's eyes widened a bit at the mention of suitors. "Suitors?"

I rolled my eyes. "Yes, suitors. They all think they have a chance to win the favor of the perfect princess and heir to the throne. Little do they know how much I despise these events, and the royal life in general."

Taryn gave me a sympathetic smile. "But you always manage."

"That's part of the problem," I muttered. "Everyone sees me as the perfect princess, but they have no idea how much I hate this life. Yet, I'm forced to attend, to maintain the facade."

Taryn nodded, understanding my frustration. "So, what do we do now?"

"We prepare, of course," I said with a resigned sigh. "The ball is in two days, and we need to make sure everything is perfect, as usual. Come on, we're going to see the dressmakers."

As we made our way through the palace corridors, I could feel the mix of dread and determination churning in my stomach. I might hate the ball, but I would face it with the same grace and poise as always. And Taryn would be by my side, my loyal companion and best friend, even if her official title was my personal slave.

When we arrived at the dressmakers' workshop, I gestured for Taryn to follow me inside. The head dressmaker, a plump woman with a keen eye for detail, greeted us warmly.

"Your Highness," she said with a deep curtsey. "How can we assist you today?"

"I need a dress for the ball," I said, trying to keep my tone polite despite my annoyance. "And Taryn here needs a matching uniform for the event."

The dressmaker nodded eagerly. "Of course, Your Highness. Let's begin."

As I described the details of the dress I wanted—a stunning, regal gown with intricate embroidery and a flowing train—I noticed Taryn listening attentively. Despite my disdain for the ball, I would make sure I looked the part.

Finally, the dressmaker brought out a sketch of the dress—a beautiful creation in deep blue and silver, with delicate patterns that shimmered in the light.

"This will be perfect," I said, my voice softening slightly. "And Taryn's uniform?"

"We'll make sure it complements your gown perfectly, Your Highness," the dressmaker assured me.

The next day, we returned to the dressmakers' workshop for the fitting. The atmosphere was a flurry of activity as seamstresses hurried to finish the final touches on the gowns and uniforms for the upcoming ball.

I stepped onto the raised platform, allowing the dressmakers to drape the luxurious fabric over me. The deep blue and silver gown fit me perfectly, accentuating my regal presence. As the dressmaker adjusted the hem and added the final embellishments, my gaze drifted to Taryn.

"Your turn," I said with a small smile, gesturing for her to step up onto the platform beside me.

She hesitated for a moment before joining me. The dressmakers quickly set to work, fitting her into a matching uniform that complemented my gown. The uniform was tailored to her slender frame, with intricate details that echoed the patterns on my dress.

As the dressmakers fussed over the final adjustments, I turned to Taryn. "You look beautiful," I said sincerely.

She blushed slightly, clearly not accustomed to such compliments. "Thank you, Alex. So do you."

I gave a wistful smile. "If only these events weren't so dreadful. At least we'll look the part."

She nodded, understanding the weight of the expectations placed upon me. "You'll get through it, as always. And I'll be right there with you."

My expression softened as I looked at Taryn. "I don't know what I'd do without you, Taryn."

As the dressmakers finished their work, we stepped down from the platform. The head dressmaker gave a satisfied nod. "Everything is ready, Your Highness. You'll be the most stunning woman at the ball."

I managed a polite smile. "Thank you. Your work is always exceptional."

With the fitting complete, we made our way back to my chambers. Once inside, I let out a long sigh and flung myself upon my bed, the weight of my royal duties pressing heavily upon me.

"Taryn," I said quietly, rolling onto my back, "I wish I could just be myself at these events."

She sat beside me, gently taking my hand. "I know, Alex. But remember, you're not alone. You have me, and together, we'll get through this."

I squeezed her hand, finding comfort in her presence. "Thank you, Taryn. You have no idea how much that means to me."