Bound by blood & Ink

The royal arrival

That day, Alex worked tirelessly with the court, preparing for the royal family's arrival and organizing her father's funeral. Invitations were sent out, arrangements were planned, and countless details were scrutinized. Hard questions arose about her father's final wishes-questions Alex had no way of answering. Unable to reveal her lack of knowledge, she cobbled together decisions by combining the suggestions of others with the only funeral she had ever known, her mother's.

By the time the day ended, Alex was completely drained. Odessa escorted her back to her chambers, her tone soft but firm. "Ma'am, if I may, I know today has been overwhelming, but now that you're officially in this position, it would be wise to select your personal guards. I can't always be by your side." She smiled gently as they reached the room.

"Right... yeah," Alex replied with a tired yawn, her eyelids heavy. "Where would I even start?"

Odessa chuckled. "I'll send word to the academy and your forces. We'll gather the best candidates for tomorrow at the training grounds near the royal guard barracks."

Alex nodded absentmindedly, too tired to process the details. "Okay... goodnight."

She opened the door and shuffled toward her bed.

"Goodnight," Odessa replied, stepping in behind her. She moved to the balcony, drawing the curtains and closing the doors to shield Alex from the chill. By the time she turned back, Alex was already fast asleep, curled up in her bed. Odessa smiled softly. "Sleep well," she whispered before quietly closing the door behind her.

The morning light crept through the curtains, casting soft streaks of warmth across the room.

"Ma'am?" A soft knock sounded on the door, and Odessa's familiar voice followed. "May I come in?"

Alex sat up, her movements sluggish. "Yes," she called, her voice hoarse.

Odessa entered with her usual composed grace, a tray balanced in her hands. Tea, toast, and fruit made up the modest breakfast. She set it down carefully and pulled up a chair beside the bed, her concerned gaze scanning Alex. "How are you feeling this morning?"

Alex hesitated, brushing a hand through her disheveled hair. "Better," she lied, though her trembling hands betrayed her.

Odessa's smile was gentle, her presence steady. "You don't have to face this alone."

The words settled over Alex like a thin blanket. She nodded, avoiding Odessa's eyes. After a moment, she asked, "What time is it?"

Odessa straightened. "The royal family is expected within the hour."

Alex froze slightly, anxiety clawing at her insides. "I don't know anything about them," she admitted quietly. "I can't even remember what they're like. What if... what if they hate me? What if I disappoint them?"

Odessa's expression softened. She reached out, placing a comforting hand on Alex's arm. "You could never disappoint them. Your family has always been incredibly close to the royal family."

Alex looked at her curiously. "What do you mean? I... I don't remember much."

Odessa leaned back, her tone turning warm and nostalgic. "Your father and King Edgare have been best friends since they were boys. They grew up together, trained together, and even fought side by side in the rebellion that placed Edgare on the throne. Your father was one of his greatest allies and most trusted advisors."

Alex blinked, processing the information. "I had no idea."

"The bond between your family and theirs goes beyond politics," Odessa continued. "When you were little, Queen Cordelia doted on you like her own daughter. You spent countless hours at the palace, playing with their children. Princess Scarlett, their oldest, was like a little sister to you. She's two years younger, though she turned eighteen recently. You used to call her 'Lettie.'"