In the Castle of Zariya

Princess  Cordelia's POV

I furrowed my brow in concentration as I ran my fingers through the numerous gowns on the rack. "Princess Cordelia, we have been waiting for you to choose a gown for 2 hours! Just choose one!" exclaimed my Lady-in-waiting Daphne. Had it been any other Lady-in-waiting they would have been relieved of their duties immediately, but I had known Daphne since we were mere babes in our mothers arms. I shook my head at her impatience and said "Patience is a virtue Daphne." "One that I do not possess your majesty, besides the King of Alynthi and his siblings will be arriving very soon and we have not even started on your hair and makeup!" I hummed in agreement before finally settling on a silvery-blue corseted ballgown. It was simple yet ethereal and the slight gold embellishments showed the wealth of my kingdom, without seeming too flashy. The skirts were made of a fine gossamer fabric and it complimented my body nicely.

Once the dress was chosen, Daphne sat me down in a chair and immediately began working on my hair, gently pulling it back into an elegant up do. As she did so she grumbled about how lucky I was that she had decided to get ready ahead of me. "Daphne, what do you know about the King of Alynthi and his siblings?" I asked. "The youngest of the royal family is Her Royal Highness Princess Leanne. She is said to be very kind and is beloved by her people. She is also said to be the most friendly. The second youngest is His Royal Highness Prince Edward, he is very well known for being an impeccable swordsman as well as a very wise judge. There are rumours about some scuffle between him and his brother for the throne but it was dealt with before it became a huge scandal. The second oldest Is Queen Scarlett who is married to King Charles of Therondia. They are expecting their first child at the moment." "And what of King Phillip?" I mused as I slid on a gold bracelet. "Oh for Pete's sake! Give me a minute to catch my breath after that long monologue," huffed Daphne, tucking a piece of her curly black hair behind her ear as she spoke. "He is famed for his good looks and courage in battle. Apparently he has been planning this trade deal since his coronation. Everyone who meets him has glowing reports about him."

I frowned at that last statement as I examined my makeup. "Why does your majesty look displeased about the news about King Phillip?" questioned Daphne as she put my crown on my head. "Well from what you said, he seems perfect, and perfect people are always hiding something," I smiled. "Whatever you are planning Delia, I don't think its a good idea," warned Daphne. "I just want to make sure he has no plans to harm our kingdom. Besides, you know me Daphne, when have I ever caused any trouble?" I teased. "A better question would be when haven't you caused any trouble," grumbled my lady in waiting as she laced up the back of my dress. "Who will be greeting them?" I asked. "2 ministers as royal protocol calls for," answered Daphne without even looking up from the intricate laces that were being done up. "Send Solaris, Captain of the royal guard and Naseem Captain of Expeditions instead. They outrank ministers so it won't be seen as an insult and they are our dearest friends so they will give us honest first impressions of the royal family," I commanded. "Delia! You are sending the two most cheeky members of court to greet one of the most important envoys we have received this year!" exclaimed Daphne. I simply smiled and attempted to make myself look as innocent as possible. "I'll let them know," sighed Daphne as she stepped back to admire the finished product that was my final look. As I examined myself in the mirror, I had to admit that she had done a good job. I grinned at my reflection as Daphne exited the room. "King Phillip," I mused, "what exactly are you up to?"

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