The Arrangement

o n e

ஜ Adeline ஜ

The sound of the string of my bow stretching, and the chirping of flitting birds, were all that surrounded me. My favourite sounds. I reached back into my quiver, to pull out an arrow; nocking it. I briefly closed my eyes to focus, before reopening them and concentrating on my target.

When I felt ready, I let the arrow zip through the air. I smiled proudly when my arrow hit bullseye. I took a moment to look at the five targets to the left of this one, arrows also protruding from their individual bullseyes. I heard a faint applause from behind me. I turned to face my best friend.

'I see you haven't lost your touch whilst you were in Enthymema,' Nate said, a cheeky grin plastered on his face. 'You're still as fit as a fiddle, Ade.'

I rolled my eyes in response, 'And you still haven't learned how to shave your supposed beard properly,' I quipped, moving towards Nate to squish his face, and promptly embrace him.

He pulled away from our hug a few seconds later. 'Your Mother sent me to fetch you. It's time to prepare for the ball.'

'A ball? At this time of crisis?' I scoffed, 'The Great War has cost my people their jobs and some the more unlucky ones; their lives. Mother wants to feast and dance. Of course.'

Nate turned and began walking toward the looming castle, I followed suit.

He sighed, 'Adeline. This is a time of crisis, yes, but the ball isn't for nothing. This is the best time to strengthen Libero's bonds with our allies, is it not?' I could feel his gaze on me; however, my eyes were planted firmly to the grass. 'And... you surely are aware that our kingdom has shaky relations with the kingdoms of Tristis and Silvamitis. With the jealousy and rumors and what not.'

'I suppose you're right,' I admitted, an abrupt gust of wind sweeping tendrils of my hair across my face. We walked in silence the rest of the way to the palace; the only sounds were our boots and the melodies of nature to fill the absence of conversation.

Once we were inside the imposing building, Nate spoke once more, 'Your servants are preparing your bath, clothes and jewels as we speak. Your Mother is waiting for you in your quarters.'

'Thank you,' I replied, mustering up a smile.

'Nathaniel!' someone called from the end of the hall.

Nate bowed. 'That's my cue.' he offered me a smile. 'I'll see you later, Princess.'

And with that, I began my trek up the flight of stairs, with a sigh; dragging my hand along the smooth, ebony banister. I absolutely hate balls. The process of getting ready for any type of dance, really, I despise. I'd much rather be out riding my horse or sparring.

When I reached the top of the stairs, I nearly collided with Margaret, one of my servants.

'Good Heavens, Adeline!' she exclaimed, shock evident in her tone and her woodenly state.

'I'm so sorry, Margaret,' I replied, steadying her before the both of us lost our balance and toppled down the stairs.

'Thank you, Princess. Just be more careful next time, and I think looking up when you come up the stairs will be quite helpful, alright?' I noticed the corners of her lips twitching.

I cracked a smile. 'Of course.'

'Now, come along,' she instructed, gesturing for me to head in the direction of my chambers. 'Time to get ready for the ball, my dear.'

Once I entered my chambers, my Mother could easily be spotted. She was in the center of my room, exuding her unmatched augustness; as she spoke to various servants.