The First Queen

2 - Debut Gone Wrong

Athena escorted me to a room in the Royal Wing of the Palace and, despite finally finding my family, I feel an emptiness in my heart.

"Are you well, Your Highness?" Athena questioned, her hands linked behind her back.

I nodded, "Just... Shocked."

"I can see how this would come as a shock. My sympathies are unto you, Your Highness." Athena smiled gently.

"Please, don't call me that. Just Elia should do." I sighed, rubbing my temples and seating myself on the large, cushioned bed.

"As you wish, Your-- Elia." She corrected herself and bowed, "I shall take my leave. Should you require me: I'll be discussing plans for the tournament with my soldiers or in my chambers."

And with that, my charming knight left me alone in this huge, cold room.

I keep flickering between Xanthe's nonchalance and the look in King Gabriel-- My father's eyes.

I'm a princess... Like an actual princess... Like the daughter of a king...

I am a princess...

Does this mean I have to fit in with the propriety and courtesy of the court? I swear, they'd kick me out just because I was raised in The Wilds let alone not having any court culture.

I flopped back onto the silky sheets and let out a deep sigh. I cannot believe this. Not in my wildest dreams-- well, maybe in some of them... Or most... -- would I ever have thought to become a princess.

There was a knock at the door and I groaned, "Come in..."

"Lady Blackstone, someone was waiting for you at your door." A familiar yet eerie voice sung and I looked up to see Nyx bounding towards me, her tail slapping the ground behind her.

I chuckled, "Thank you for letting her in, Xanthe, I didn't even know she was there."

"Anything for the staunch protector of Azumond." She chuckled, tracing one of her many hands through Nyx's long fur. "...I've been thinking about why Athena left her companion to protect you. Generally, she only lets Nyx protect those she cares for... And I assure you, she doesn't leave her with your father."

I cocked a brow at her and Xanthe just shrugged gracefully, changing the topic.

"Have you thought of finding a prince or am I jumping the quarterstaff?" Xanthe questioned and I looked at her, taken aback.

"A prince?" I scoffed and she nodded.

"Yes... The reason why Azumond needs you. You're the only heir left for the throne and as you know, your father has aged greatly." She answered.

"So...?" I wondered and Xanthe planted herself beside me, Nyx jumping into my lap.

"So... Once you become Queen Consort, you will need a King to... Consort." Xanthe explained and I groaned again.

"Gods, why does this whole thing have to be sprung on me?!" I snapped and Xanthe placed a hesitant yet reassuring hand on my shoulder.

"This is a lot to take in, Lady Frost," Xanthe said, gaining a thankful look from me.

She used my name, not my fathers'.

"But," She started and I glanced at her.

"But?" I wondered.

"You do have your debut as the Princess of Azumond tomorrow night and it would be good to meet a few of the suitors from other Houses. I know the Captain's House has an unwed duke." Xanthe informed me and I shuddered.