The False Key

Chapter One

Amelia was not in distress. But yes, she was a damsel, of course - a princess. To be frank, that whole "Damsel in Distress" trope was never really her style. What was her style, however, was rebellion. Or at least what she wanted to pretend was rebellion.

Under her parents reign, she had found herself to take up an immense hatred for their political stance (which was very anti-commoner, and pro-aristocracy, unfortunately), and tried her best to separate herself from them as best she could. By "separation" this seemed to mean becoming detached from all family interaction and never quite voicing her true opinions. After all, she didn't want to put herself in jeopardy by challenging her parents. That would be stupid. Instead, she settled to play the waiting game - sitting quietly on her throne until her parents inevitably died and then she could finally reign adequately. This wasn't the best or most convenient plan, being as her parents were not exactly unhealthy or old, but it was the safest for the time being.

Amelia never dared to speak of this plan to anyone, even to the maids with whom she was closest. Any suspect of her being prone to committing treason could very well get her killed or exiled; her parents weren't the type to take these matters lightly. It just wasn't worth the risk, really.

So, to make up for her lack of voice and opinion, Amelia would simply slip away out of her chambers most nights. Unfortunately, her rebellion wasn't very significant in any real way, but it temporarily satisfied her and kept her safe until her moment arrived. She was content with that. For the most part.

Tonight, she did, in fact, intend on sneaking away. In her castle, she had heard murmurs of a very eloquent party inside one of the wealthiest estates in the country. The house who organized this party was the McAllister House; everybody was familiar with the name, and everybody envied it. They were notorious for their grand vineyards as well as the wine that resulted from them (some say it's as enchanted as it is alcoholic, that is to say, very). Amelia wanted to experience at least one of these parties in her lifetime, and there was no better time than tonight. Besides, many breeds of royalty attend these sorts of events. Typically young princes and princesses who thought they were rebelling as well. Amelia would blend in fantastically, without any question as to who she was. Perhaps Amelia would meet the most charming prince or something of the sort. Someone with the same views who could rule as effectively as she wished. It was only custom for her to be aware of any adequate suitors that may cross her path. Alas, she was getting ahead of herself.

In this moment, Amelia was sat in front of her vanity, currently setting out her best makeup she had picked up from the royal marketplace (not the common marketplace; she was bound within her kingdom, and the common marketplace laid outside it). She made sure to organize it as she desired and smiled pleasantly when she finished doing so. She usually relied on her maids to do her makeup and such, mainly for house meetings or royal events, but over time she had observed all the useful techniques and looks so she could use them for nights like this. She was quite proud of herself for being so observant. It was one of her favorite personal qualities.

In her head, Amelia already picked out her outfit - An elegant deep red dress. It wasn't too long, because that would prove itself not-so stealthy, and she so desperately needed to be discreet. Consequences laid before her if she happened to get caught. Of course the dress wasn't very short, either; she had dignity for God's sake, being a princess and all. The dress would end comfortably above her knees. Along with this dress, Amelia imagined her black velvet shoes, which were flat to secure her stealth, along with translucent white pantyhose. She despised pantyhose, as it was just uncomfortable to her, but figured she best look at least presentable for the party. Amelia determined that she had to look wealthy at best, but must always refrain from giving away her status. If anyone were to hear of her status, her late-night excursions would come to a complete halt; word travels fast in the kingdom of Versuex.