The Saving of the Queen

The Celebration: Pt. II

Emma's POV

I'm walking back toward the main grounds of the palace. I'm supposed to rendezvous with General Nolan in the main courtyard so we can go over tonight's security details and emergency plans before we meet up with the King.

I smile at the servents I pass, busily preparing the finishing touches for tonight's festivities. Certain nobles from the local area have already been showing up, touring the palace halls, drinking fine wine and chatting amoignst themselves.

The spare me glances, some more friendly than others, and continue their quiet conversations. Walking with a mission, I don't have time to stop and chat, but a short robust man stops me in my tracks to ask me if I think it's truly safe here. Apparently he's heard rumors of a disgruntled group of locals, and tales of a unyielding, cruel Queen.

I glance at his bright blue garments, and the very tall, young woman who seems to be his bride. I raise an eyebrow and reassure him of his safety. He laughs an obnoxious laugh, and walks back to the group without another glance.

I finally reach the courtyard, but unfortunately, the General stands there already.

"General." I smile, and nod my head in greeting. He does not smile, but nods as well.

"You are a few moments late. However, I got to see something I haven't in a long time, so I suppose, I'll let it pass. Once." He slowly smiles and chuckles. I've never heard him laugh, or even chuckle. It's a warming sound.

I laugh lightly. "And what, pray tell, did you witness that was so enlightening?" I ask curiously.

"The birds." He answers. "Two birds, flying together in a dance. It reminded me of someone I once knew." His smile fades, his eyes becoming misty.

I'm shocked, though I try to hide it. I have never seen the General so...emotional. He sighs deeply and clears his throat. Back to business.

"So, the details of tonight..." He nudges.

I dive into the detailed plans and arrangements for the night.

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Regina's POV

I am slowly nursing a cup of chamomile to help me calm my rather frazzled nerves. The servents are preparing me for tonights celebration. Thankfully, I am not to wear one of those giant, cumbersome gowns. My mother has picked out a rather 'innocent' as she called it, outfit. It reminds me a little of the dresses I used to wear when I was younger, but I really like the young freedom it seems to give me.

I'll have to fufill the role of queen soon enough. Why rush it?

The time is slowly approaching. More political power games from the nobles, more doomed suitors who think they still have a chance, or even ever had one in the first place, and more of my mother, controlling my destiny.

Grand.

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Emma's POV

General Nolan and I have run through all of the security plans, met with seperate teams of guards at seperate posts, and are now headed toward the King's own private chambers.

As we approach the room, we begin to hear disgruntled yelling. We quicken our steps until we reach the King's room. Bursting through the door, we see the conundrum.

"Get your hands off me! I'm done with you, I look fine wench!" The King slaps at one of the young servents hands as she reaches to fix his collar.

She discreetly rolls her eyes, turns on her heel, and exits the room. I laugh slightly.