The Arcana Archives

I Knew You Were Trouble (R)

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Summary: You and Nadia play truth or dare.

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          It is a blissful noon in the kingdom of Carus. You stretched on your place at the chaise-longue, waiting for Nadia to finish her introductions with the monarch of the kingdom so that you two could have lunch.

          The preparations to visit the Kingdom of Gems started about a month ago. Under the supervision of the Countess, Vesuvia began establishing alliances with the neighboring kingdoms. This is to open trade and tourism for the kingdom.

          You knew about Carus from Asra's tales of his travels. Carus is the kingdom with a wealth of gems, jewels, and stones. Asra often travelled here to obtain ingredients for spells and different stones for different purposes. Once, he took home a gem that seemed like it had the galaxy in it and gave it to you as a gift. Since then, you have dreamed about visiting the kingdom.

          Your wish was fulfilled when Nadia invited you to be a part of the company that will travel to Carus. You gleefully agreed but not before asking her repeatedly if she was serious. You took some of your savings so that you can buy what you want when you can in the markets of Carus.

          Your thoughts halted as the doors opened and in stepped Nadia and Portia.

          When Nadia reaches you, she pecks your lips as a greeting and you scoot over to give her space to sit.

          "How was it?" you ask.

          "It went well. They've already decided beforehand to accept our offer and now we just have to stay for the festivities." Nadia says. "The King and his consort were very kind albeit...eccentric."

          You hear Portia try to muffle her snort. You raise a brow at her and so does Nadia.

          "I'm sorry! It's just, I can't count on two hands the number of times milady has mistaken the king and his consort for each other!"

          Your jaw dropped in shock. You turned to Nadia in amusement. You know that Nadia takes her responsibilities as the Countess seriously. She is the type of person who treads carefully and plans meticulously and for her to do that is nigh unimaginable!

          Nadia falters before she turns away and blushes. "It–ah, I cannot help it. They wear similar clothes and the consort spoke more often than the king. He has a more commanding aura as well," She composes herself and then turns to Portia. Nadia gives her a look that says 'you traitor'.

          Portia just giggles and mumbles a half-hearted apology. You turn to Nadia and remind her of your lunch plans. At the corner of your eye, you see Portia mouth an 'oh?' in confusion before Nadia sighs.

          "Portia can you leave us for a moment? I will call for you later; you may do as please in the meantime."

           Portia bows and gives her gratitude before she goes and closes the door behind her. You turn to Nadia as she takes both of your hands.

          "I apologize dearly. The king invited us to eat with his council while the discussion took place. I couldn't turn it away,"

          A flicker of disappoinment goes through you before you grip her hands in return. "It's fine! We can do something else!"

           "Are you sure? I apologize again. What would you like?"

         You wave your hand at her. "How about we start with a walk? I can probably get something to eat along the way. I hear they sell delectable meats on stick here."