The Pirate Princess

Breaking the News

I woke to the sound of banging on my door. I glanced at the sundial on my bedroom balcony. It said 8:30. Crap I was running late for breakfast. I fell back on my pillow wishing I could go back to bed. I heaved a sigh of longing and tossed off my covers.

I ran to the door and opened it enough for my best friend and lady in waiting Chelsea. She slipped in and I could see that she's wearing her usual simple outfit: a plain colored dress which was a light green today with a white apron. Her soft blonde hair put in a bun so it wasn't falling in her face as she worked.

As she closed the door I walked over to my wardrobe and thumbed through my dresses with distaste. I hated wearing dresses and longed to be able to wear trousers, but it is considered improper for women to wear pants. I could get away with leggings around the castle but I couldn't go outside in them. Finally I chose a simple forest green dress with thin gold trim lining the sleeves and v-neck.

I took the dress off the hanger and handed it to Chelsea. I then went behind the changing blind and stripped out of my nightgown. Chelsea helped me with my bodice and tightened it just enough so I could still breath. I then grab a pair of black flats and slip them on quickly. I brushed my hair a few times before heading for the door.

I walked quickly down the hall towards the banquet hall. Before reaching the door I stopped and let Chelsea straighten out my skirt and hair. I then turned the corner and the guards opened the door to let me in. As I walked into the room I saw that only my father was there. That was unusual, for my step mother was quiet plump and loved to eat. Maybe she's sick, I thought to myself.

As I walked into the room my father stood and pulled my seat out for me. I sat down at the right of his seat which was at the head of the table. The servants brought out a simple. breakfast completed with hot oatmeal, fresh fruits from the garden, and some cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven. Along with the food came drinks which were milk, orange juice, apple cider, and of course water. After the servants left I had carefully placed a proper amount of food on my plate.

My father prayed as he always did and then we ate quietly. Finally my father cleared his throat, which meant he had something to say. I put down my fork and looked at my father. He had pushed his plate away from him a little so he could put his elbows on the table. His salt and pepper hair was cut short and his beard was scruffy which was a sign that he hadn't had it trimmed for a few days. His ocean green eyes held sorrow in them yet determination and stubbornness also.

"Alaina, there's something that I need to tell you." my father said finally looking me in the eye. "The kingdom has fallen on troubled times and is on the brink of war with Sterlington." he paused for a moment and I nodded for him to continue. "King Raven has extended an offer and I have accepted it. Both countries will sign a peace treaty but only if there is a marriage." I pondered this for a moment.

"So Brandi or Riley are gonna marry Stephan?" I said referring to my step sisters and Prince Stephan King Ravens son. My father shook his head saying that I didn't understand what he had said.

"Alaina you're the true princess of the kingdom of Solaris, which means you can be the only one for this. Your step sisters aren't of royal blood." he said, his voice a grave tone.

As the meaning of what he had said sunk in, I became angry and scared. How could he do this to me? Why didn't he tell me when it happened and why didn't I get a say in who I was going to marry? I could feel my face getting red and tears brimmed my eyes blurring my vision. I remained quiet cause if I spoke I would yell at him which would get me into more trouble.

"I know this is a shock to you but it had to be done for the good of the kingdom. It is your solemn duty as a princess to do everything you can for the good of the kingdom." my father babbled on as my life came crashing down. I could feel the tears threatening to spill over. I quickly grabbed my napkin from my lap and dabbed at my eyes, leaving black smudges from my make up on the linen.

"How long do I have before I'm shipped off to marry a person I've never met?" I asked my voice dripping with bitterness and resentment. I glared at my father, sending daggers with my eyes. He shifted uncomfortably in his chair under my gaze. I repeated my question and he answered.

"You have three months before your wedding day. It will be held at King Ravens castle. In that time you will be taught their customs and will freshen up on your manners. You will also be fitted for your wedding dress." My father said his tone stern, daring me to challenge him. All I could do was nod.

"May I be excused?" is all I could say. With a nod of approval I scooted back my chair and walked to the door with my head held high. As soon as I heard the heavy oak door close behind me I ran to my room, locked the door, and stood there a moment before the tears came.

When they did they flooded down my face. I leaned against the door for support but ended up sliding down it to the floor. I sat on the floor weeping for what seemed like hours. I brought my knees to my chest and rested my arms on top. I laid my head upon my arms sniffling. Would I ever be able to love Prince Stephen? I mean I never actually met him before, just heard rumors about him. As I sat there sniffling and thinking I heard a soft knock on my door.

"Alaina, can I come in?" Chelsea's voice drifted through the door. I wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone, even Chelsea. I kept quiet and waited until I heard her footsteps receding down the hall. I opened the door just a crack to see her retreating down the hall towards my fathers courts. I had quickly come up with a plan and now I had to execute it sooner then planned. I leaned back on the door. My eyes stung and I was worn out. I didn't fight my eyelids as they drifted shut and fell into a fitful sleep.

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A/N

Hey, thanks to all y'all reading this. I hope you enjoy the story of Alaina and her journey. Tell me what you want to see happen in the story. I love to hear your guys opinions and thoughts so don't forget to vote, comment, and follow me.

P.S

if you enjoy my story check out my other books: Runaway, and Hauntingly Enchated

-Alexis-;)