The crowning (edited)

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Without a fuss or whine, Anna sat as her mother pulled and jabbed her scalp fixing her hair into a crown braid, to applying not to much but not to little makeup anx onto the gorgeous emerald green dress her mother had spent many nights and many days of going without food to create. The corset adorned with tiny intricate flower designs and emerald green jewels that flowed down into a silky satin skirt. The corset fit firmly, and Anna almost felt suffocated.

Finally she turned to the mirror and saw not herself but a regal young woman fit for the title of royalty if not princess. She smiled at herself.

Though they werent of fortune, the family afforded a carriage and escorted their beautiful daughter to the castle.

Anna's pov

I felt beautiful and confident entering the castle, but upon seeing the elegant women i began to feel small and doubt myself.

Am i truly deserving or have the ability to out do these gorgeous women?

Many of the women sneered at me as if i were a pesky fly on the wall but other shot me a sad glance as if to say 'at least you tried sweetheart.'

Ignoring the women i held my head high and proceeded to act as if i werent completely out of place.

A young blonde girl approaches me slowly, and unsure. She had been standing behind all of the other women. I shot her a soft smile which seemed tell her i was just as out of place as she, which in turn gave her a bit more courage to approach me faster and with a bit of confidence.

"Hello there" she spoke softly, "my name is Ella, what is yours?"

I internally sighed relieved of her kindness, "my name is Anna its a pleasure to meet you."

We make small talk as the evening proceeds. After a few hours the kings royal advisor, Jeffery steps onto the podium and taps the microphone.

"Good evening ladies. Though many have shown up today, only one will remain. Through diligent study, we decided on on lucky lady. Anna Winston, please make your way to the podium."

Ella gasps out a cry and whispers, "I cannot return to my family now..."

I stop "why?"

She looks up, tears brimming her eyes "b...because they told me if I don't return princess not to return at all.."

She turns and hurries down the long corridor before i can stop her.

Many women mumble hateful remarks under their breath while others curtsy me as i approach the podium.

Still in shock i stumble up the stairs and stop, the man towers over me, but his soft blue eyes twinkle with delight as he bows, "your majesty."

All the women even those who were saying the rude comments curtsy and exit the room.

Jeffery leads my down a long corridor, "there is much to do princess, but first things first, image is important."

He stops at a door and opens it motioning me in, "this is your room. Your stylist will be by shortly to get your measurements."

I nod stiffly and he closes the door. I flop myself onto the large bed to find it is extremely comfortable.

Suddenly my door crashes open and closes quickly, heavy breathing accompanies the door closing. I look up to see a tall man, with golden blonde hair standing at the door panting his eyes are closed and doesnt seem to notice my presence.

Once he opens his eyes he jumps in shock,

"Oh dear! I apologize. My name is Duke Louis, you must be the princess?"

I nod and stand hand extended, "yes my name is Anna."

He smirks, "and that's supposed to mean something?"

Im taken back by his rudeness, "oh... Um no.. I just-"

He cuts me off by turning away, "i do believe theyre gone now. Until next time, princess."

Without another word he steps into the hall and is gone leaving me in my room even more confused.

Shortly after a short plump lady steps into my room, she bows respectfully and without a word takes my measurements then is gone.

I walk to the window and look outside, just below my window is a very beautiful garden, well ive got my measurements out of the way and they never said i couldn't explore?

I step into the hall cautiously then walk doen the corridor and out to the garden, theres no words to describe its beauty, rose bushes scattered throughout the endless daisys, pansys, daffodils and the occasional morning glory vine. The arch way that leads to the garden is littered with American wisterias.

"Excuse me?" A stern voice radiates behind me, "commoners are no longer permitted entrance, you need to leave."

I turn around and the mans face goes from being stern to shock.

The man is gorgeous, his chiseled chin helps compliment his stern behavior but his soft brown eyes show a soft hearted man.

"Oh my!" He bows respectfully, " your highness i apologize completely! I didnt realize it was you!"

I put my hand up and smile, " its completely okay! I do not believe we've met before and wouldn't except you to recognize me."

He nods stiffly, "may i ask why her majesty is walking around without an escort?"

I blink and gasp, "I uh... I didnt know i had to be escorted?"

He chuckles slightly, "you don't. But im surprised all your potential suitors are clawing their way to your feet yet."

My eyes widen, "oh?"

All expression wipes from his face "they didn't mention your job to marry?"

I shake my head and he proceeds, "its kind of it in job description. You become princess then find someone to marry and rule Verbena with. The kingdom doesnt feel electing commoners as princess again is a smart idea."

Maybe im not cut out for this... Being followed around like a piece of meat.....

After walking around the garden I learned his name is Alyn. Not only is he a knight, but he is the top knight, his job includes protecting not only me but the kingdom and the training of the soliders falls into his hands.

I told him about Duke Louis, to which he furrowed his eye brows and frowned, speaking poorly of the man. Apparently he's a womanizer who doesn't take anything seriously.

The rest of the way is walked in silence, hes not much on small talk but was respectful enough to hold a conversation with.

Once we were done, the sun begsn to set and i was escorted back to my room by alyn who quickly left without further word.

I noticed a lacey gown that haf to be about mid way to my knees laying on the bed so i picked it up quickly and chsnged before laying down bed.

Today has been an eventful day, one that left me completely exhausted. I fell asleep the second my head hit my pillow.

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