3 Charm To Charmings

My head is throbbing for some unknown reason. Why does it hurt?

Suddenly I felt the wind brushing pass my skin. It was cool and relaxing. I took a deep breath and was welcomed by the scent of lavenders and roses. I moved my fingers and was surprised when I touched something spiky......feels like grass.

"Who is this girl?" I can hear a voice somewhere above me. From its tone I can tell that it's a male. Am I dreaming?

"I have no idea. Maybe she's the girl that the queen was talking about?" Another voice said.

"Awe, how cute. But the way she dresses is pretty weird." And another. I wanted to open my eyes to see what was happening, but I didn't. I'm guessing that they still think I'm unconscious. Would they leave me if they think that I'm dead?

As if voicing it out, another male said "Is she dead?"

Great. There are more of them.

Whatever, as long as they think that I'm dead maybe they'll leave me alone. I held my breath to make it look like my heart stopped beating. I've never been good at acting, but I guess this'll have to do.

"Oi. She stopped breathing!"

"What do we do?!"

"Leave her. She is not of our concern." A new voice said. This one has a hard edge onto it. Oh joy! More of them.

"Cut it out, Prince Ace. If you continue that kind of attitude, you're not gonna find a wife." Argued the other.

"Stop it. Both of you. This isn't the time to argue! This girl is in trouble and you would rather kill each other than to help her?" Yeah! I'm gonna die here and you two would rather argue? Shame on you!

"Sorry, Fred" said the other. I felt something soft brush my nose. I fought the urge to scratch where it once had been.

"Prince Ren, what are you doing to the poor girl? Or are you Dan?"

"It's Dan you idiot. Get your facts straight. I'm just tickling her nose with this feather, trying to get a reaction from her."

"You really are stupid."

My nose is itching...

"Hey, did you just call my brother stupid?" A new voice said. And he didn't seem happy about the way that the other boy had called his brother stupid.

I wrinkled my nose since it began to tingle. I was frustrated that I couldn't even reach up and grab it - not when I'm still surrounded by strangers.

Let's just hope that the worse thing that they'll do is tickle my nose with a feather.

"Whatever, Prince Ren." the same man who called the boy named Dan said.

"Actually, I'm Prince Dan."

I actually want to sneeze now.....

"What?! But I thought that he said he was Dan!"

"Fooled ya!" The man beside me said.

"So you're Prince Dan and you're Prince Ren?"

"Why don't you take a guess?" both the boys said at the same time. I heard the other men laughing.

I really want to sneeze now....

"I hate twins!"

My nose began to tingle more and I fought the urge to sneeze. Just keep it in, Rose. Come on.

"Don't worry, Nate. We hate you too." said the twins at the same time.

"ACHO!" I couldn't stop the sneeze that was coming. It was too much for me.

Whipping my nose after I sneezed, I opened my eyes and was met by 5 gorgeous strangers that made me hold my breath. Two of them had the same faces - I assume that they're twins. Both have chocolate brown hair which is combed sideward, their eyes are also a pretty shade of brown, only slightly lighter, like chestnut. Their skin was tanned in a somewhat golden color. They smiled and tilted their head to the side.

One prince gave me a warm smile that comforted me from all the stares. He has blonde hair which was combined backward. A few strands were covering his icy blue eyes. He was pretty tall.

Then my eyes darted to one with a cold stare, but despite that, he was good looking. His hair was black and messy, his eyes are the color of midnight blue, which is currently giving me goosebumps.

The last one I couldn't describe. He was looking at me without any emotion at all. Just a blank stare. But I can tell that he was curious. His hair was a nice crimson red that I was pretty sure wasn't dyed like the other boys at my school. It was neatly combed and some of his hair is covering his eyes, which are the colors of the forest, a rare shade of green. A moment later, he gave me a wink.

'Kay.

They all look good, but what really caught my attention was their attire. All of them then were wearing....lets just say some fancy and expensive coats. Did they come from a costume party?

This must be a dream. For sure. I brought a hand up and slapped myself.

I heard a few gasps.

It hurts. It is not a dream.

"Must have gone crazy." My eyes landed to the black haired guy. His mouth pulled into a thin line.

"Crazy? Looked in the mirror lately? Yeah sure, you look good in a costume, but white doesn't suit you at all." I rubbed my chin as if thinking "Maybe black will do. Yeah that's right. Do you watch Sleeping Beauty? You could be the male version of Maleficent. You know, the evil witch."

The boy was caught off guard. Probably not expecting me to talk back at him.

"I have no idea what half of the things she said were, but it was damn funny and insulting. Did she just call you an evil witch?" One of the twins teased and they started laughing, followed by red, and blondie, who covered his mouth with his fist.

"Shut up." was all Ace said before giving me a cold glare that made me shiver. "I'm not a witch you ignorant plebeian."

"Prince Ace. That is not what a proper gentleman would do. Here." the blonde one offered me his hand. I took it and let him pull me up.

"Thanks." I muttered. In response, he made a small curtsy that surprised me. This guy is either a gentleman or just a dedicated cosplayer.

The blonde boy smiled. "I'm Prince Frederick Star from the kingdom of Hazel. What about you?"

Well a dedicated cosplayer indeed.

"M-my name is Rosalie Amber Stan. Somewhere in Georgia." Did I just stutter? I'm probably nervous since this is the first time that I'm talking to a guy. A hot one at that. Or maybe, because I am still confused as to how I got myself into this situation.

"Lovely name." With that he brought my hand to his lips. The gesture made me whimper and feel a little embarrassed - for them that is. But did he just say kingdom? Wow, these guys are taking their cosplaying seriously.

"Allow me to introduce you to my companions, Lady Rose-"

"Please just call me Rose." I said. I'm not comfortable with the 'lady' part since I hardly resemble a lady at all.

"As you wish, Rose." He said, then he gestured at the red head, who took a step forward. "He is Prince Nathaniel Denver, from the kingdom of Vertez." Prince Nathaniel bowed. "Please call me Nate if you wish."

"Nice to meet you."

"And the-" he gestured to the twins but was stopped by them.

"Fred," said one of the twins. "We want to be introduced last." continued the other.

These guys are embarrassing.

"Very well," Fred nodded and gestured to the prince, who I already started to dislike. "This here is Prince Ace Feradin from the Kingdom of Tordis. Please forgive him from his rudeness earlier." Instead of bowing, prince Ace nodded his head once. "By the way, that's PRINCE Ace for YOU"

"Of course, your highness." I forced a smile and couldn't help but add. "Royal pain."

"Pardon?"

"Nothing"

"And finally," Prince Frederick continued and gestured to the twins. "The twins. Um....gentlemen, will you please introduce yourselves since I couldn't distinguish you from one another." Prince Frederick gave an apologetic smile to them.

The twins faced me and offered me a smile. "My name is Renevier Rutledge, this here-" he gestured to his twin "-is my brother Daniel Rutledge." His brother, Daniel, continued for him "We are from the Kingdom of Sanver."

I clapped my hands after. Wow these guys are good. Solid performances. I should ask them for their skin care routine since they all have flawless skin. "Nice to meet you."

"By the way, Rose. Are you acquainted with Queen Elizabeth?"

"Queen who?" After I said that, we heard a galloping sound from a horse. A back stallion appeared and it's rider was surprisingly a female. Her eyes had immediately found mine and she grinned brightly. She got off of the horse and hugged me. I was slightly taken aback. When she stopped hugging me, that's when I saw it. Blonde hair, blue eyes.

My jaw dropped and I pointed an accusing finger at her. She's the weird lady I saw before passing out! "HEY!--"

She covered my mouth with her palm. "No need for that dear. Okay?"

"Your highness." From behind her, the five princes were on one of their knees.

What is happening?

"Rise." she commanded. As she had ordered, the princes had risen to their feet. "I see you've met my niece. Princess Rose."

"Who are you calling your-" Before I could finish my sentence, her foot collided with mine. Since she was wearing heels, it made the pain twice as painful.

I gritted my teeth together to prevent myself from screaming as I jumped on one foot while clutching my injured one. "What the fu-!" She stomped on my other foot, which made me switch to the other one. What is her problem?!

"Oh, what was that, my DEAR niece??" The girl faced me again, but this time with an annoyed face that meant 'just-play-along'.

I swallowed. "Nothing, aunt-"

"Elizabeth." she whispered to me

"-Elizabeth" I mumbled.

"Good." She once again faced the princes, who were standing there patiently. "Gentlemen, my niece here will be staying with us and I want you boys to be kind to her. Teach her how to act like a proper lady-"

"Hey!"

"-and teach her some manners. If you impress her, she might pick you to be the next king of my kingdom."

"What do you mean?" I asked. I was really confused. They were in a conversation where I wasn't in. Pick a king? What's this all about? "Sorry but I am not into cosplay/roleplay so please count me out."

"You see, my dear niece. Since it had been 20 years and my husband and I still haven't conceived a child-"

"Wait, 20 years!? Your role is an old hag? But you don't look like one."

The corner of her mouth twitched "I'm going to pretend that I didn't hear that comment about an old hag, but thank you. You see, I'm a Fae. As in a fairy. Two human years mean 1 year for us. I'm 60 yrs old in human years. In other words, I'm only 30." She whispered in my ear.

A fairy? Is she crazy or something?

"Y-you're a....."

"Fairy? Yep"

I backed away. "Get out of here."

"Nothing is impossible in this world, my dear."

In this world? I looked around me. We were on a vacant landscape. Tall trees stood behind us. Judging from its height, I can tell that I'm not in my city anymore. But how could this happen? I mean, novels about people being transported into another world is common these days, but that's not what happened to me, right?

I mean, I haven't been hit by a truck. And I am sure that I haven't been reincarnated either.

She let out a sigh. "Look. I can tell that you are...a bit confused so I will explain everything later, okay?" She turned to the boys who were laughing, but stopped when they saw her highness glaring at them. "She doesn't go out much. She's ignorant so please take care of her." The queen said to them.

"Yes, your highness." they said in unison.

"Good," she turned her attention back to me "As I was saying. Since we don't have an heir to our Kingdom, my husband and I decided to pick one of the princes from other kingdoms. As for the candidates, we have chosen the youngest sons of each kingdom and would give them a test to see who is fit to be king."

"And where do I fit in?" I crossed my arm over my chest. My mind is a mess right now. As of the moment I believe that I am either kidnapped or in a weird dream.

"You, my dear, will be going to help us to decide that. You will pick a king."

"Say what now?"

"I'm not going to repeat it since I know that you have heard me."

"Fine! You want me to decide?! Nate!" I pointed to prince Nathaniel, if I remember correctly. He was slightly taken aback and a confused expression was replaced. "Do you want to be a king?"

"I...uh.....Yes?" He said. Unsure of his answer. It made me wonder if the expression on my face had forced him to say yes.

"Good. Then you'll be the king."

"What!? But that's not how you decide it!" PRINCE Ace said.

"Fine! Then you're the king too." I said.

"What!? You can't have more than one king!"

"Gentlemen, please. Let us all just talk about it." Prince Frederick tried to calm us down.

"Oh, prince Fred, you can be a king too." I stated.

"Uhm..."

"Hey no fair. We wanna be king too!" The twins said.

"Fine! You're all kings! In fact, we ALL can be kings!!"

"Yay!"

"No!"

"This is ridiculous!"

"Is that even possible?"

"Hold it!!!" The queen shouted. She probably didn't agree with my decision. Her head snapped in my direction and I winced under her gaze.

"You must take this seriously!"

"But why me?" I whined. She could have chosen other girls right? I don't even do my homework properly and they expect me to pick a king in their play?

"Well, you're the only girl who wasn't drooling at their photos during the release of the game." She lowered her voice so that only I could hear. I'm guessing that the princes doesn't know this yet. But no wonder they look familiar. They were the models for that dating simulation game.

My eyes widened at the mention of that stupid game at the store. That crap'? "How did you-"

"I was the old woman who gave you the charm." She explained. I stared at her long and hard. Trying to find any resemblance of her to the old lady that I help back at the mall. That is so not possible!! She looks young!

Or did she.....?

"Listen," I held my hand up to her. " I know that you needed my help, but I'm very busy and my parents are probably worried about me. Besides, I have no interest or whatsoever about choosing a prince. I want to spend this summer sleeping and eating."

"You can do that here. You'll have tons of fun." Insisted the queen.

"No. My parents might be worried about me right now. I must be going." Then I took a step back and looked around again. "And how can you expect me to have fun when there is no WiFi!?" I whimpered.

"No."

"What do you mean no?"

"It means that you are staying."

"Did you just hear what I said?"

"Yes. Don't worry! Just trust me. And your sister will be fine. I swear on my name." With that, she turned on her heels and turned to the boys to talk to them about my 'behavior issues'.

Trust her? When she's the one who probably brought me to this place?

I'll make sure to find a way to get back. For some reason, I know that I am not Georgia now and only the queen knows where we are. Maybe if I annoy her, she'll send me back? I don't have a problem with that.

That or she could murder me instead.

Wait, what about that charm that I made a wish from? Maybe it's the key? Maybe if I can find it, then I will be free from here. Yes, maybe that's it! All I have to do is to look for it. But where? If my hunch is right, maybe it's with the queen? After all, she was the one who gave me the charm.

Feeling something hard in my short pocket, I pulled it out only to find that it was my phone.

I turned my back to them and checked to see if I could get a signal. Nope. No signal. No internet.

"Damn this other world bullcrap. Why can't I be transported to a world with wifi!?" I cried.

"What happened?" Asked prince Frederick.

I grumbled "Nothing."

"Gentlemen!" We finally turned towards the queen who seemed to be yelling at us. When she saw us turning our attention to her she let out a sigh of relief. "I want you boys to take the carriage here and prepare the horses. It's time to go back."

Without any hesitation, they went down the grassy path to prepare the carriage that I hadn't noticed.

The queen approached me.

"So I guess that I have no choice but to come?" I asked.

"Yep."

"I still do not understand this situation." I said honestly. The back of my head is starting to hurt.

"You did wish for this, right?" She let out a grin.

"That was a joke! I didn't even know what I was thinking." Because of my frustration, I yelled.

"Even if you knew it was magical you're still coming here"

"But I thought that you said that the charm will grant me any wish that I desire, right? How can you be sure that I would wish this? Have you read my mind?" I protectively covered my head in case she'll read them.

"No." she placed a hand on her hip.

"Then how?"

"Well, the item I gave you is magical for the Faes, humans can't go to this world unless they use that item and wish for it. But even if you didn't exactly wish to be here, you'll still be coming here."

"You lost me there. And can we please speak in human terms? Like you kidnap me and throw me in a van. We sailed across the sea to an uninhabited island?"

"It seems that your mind still doesn't welcome the ideas of supernatural beings." She chuckled. "Wishes can be altered, morphed. If you wish to have lots of money, then I will bring you here and you'll have tons of gold money. If you wish for more clothes, then I'll still bring you here and give you plenty of dresses. If you wish for a certain person to love you, then I'll give you something better from here, a prince."

"Why you....." It finally started to make sense. I had no choice in the first place!

"But turns out you wished for something better! Wishing that you'll end up here! It made my task easier." She then let out a Santa-like laugh.

Just like what people would say, 'be careful what you wish for'.

"Say that I am playing along and believing what you just said. What was the purpose of that dating game that was just released?"

"It was an illusion that I made."

"What do you mean?"

"It will be my basis in looking for the perfect girl who would be helping me choose for the future king. You see, if I will pick one of those girls who's crazy with those games, then the princes can just use their looks to their advantage. It will be disastrous"

"I don't even think that I'm the only one who isn't interested in that stupid game."

"True, but you were the only one who passed the second test."

I raised an eyebrow at her "What do you mean a second test?"

"Helping an old woman in need has proven your qualification. We all need a lady who is kind." Then she winked.

"Your highness, The carriage is ready!" One of the twins approached us. I wanted to argue more but for now I have to learn more about this world. I need to assess my situation first, how I got here and how I can go back.

"Thank you." she nodded her head at the twin and hurried off. The twin faced me and offered me his arm. I took it and let him guide me. "I don't want to be rude but which twin are you?" Instead of becoming irritated like I thought he would be, he smiled but it didn't reach his eyes. "I'm Renevier. But you can call me Ren. If you can recognize me that is."

"Sorry. It must be hard for you two to be mistaken for each other." I turned my gaze to the ground.

"Oh, no need to be worried. My brother and I have gotten used to that. It's just that it would have been nice if someone can tell us apart." When he said that, his gaze was turned to the clouds above. It must really be lonely if only the both of them can tell each other who is who. Maybe even their parents can't tell them apart. What would have happened if they had gotten married? Would their wife mistake them for the other person?

That's complicated. Even though they could be potential accomplices of Elizabeth, I couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "Don't worry. I'm sure that one way or another, someone might be able to distinguish you." It might be hard since they act and look like one another though.

He was a bit surprised at what I said. A second later he laughed and shook his head. "Thanks, but I don't think anyone could do that."

"And why not? You're both individuals even though your twins." I said. "But not that I'm saying that we're close for me to know that. I'm just probably assuming things...." He didn't answer but he did offer me a smile and not since were now with the others.

He led me to the carriage and helped me up before closing it. The carriage was huge. The outside was white with some gold details on it. Two white horses are leading. Inside, I was met by the smell of daisies. The chairs were a rich velvet color. It was soft. Red curtains were also hung in case you want some privacy or to protect yourselves from the rays of the sun.

From the window. I can see that the twins were driving the carriage while the rest of the princes were riding their own horses. Even the queen is riding her own. Looking at them actually made me feel like I really am in a different world.

These damn other world travels may not be all bad after all...

I opened the window near the twins. "Um... The queen isn't riding with me?" I ask.

They just laughed. "The queen is a free willed woman. She loves adventures and wouldn't sit around and be pampered." From the way that the other twin was behaving I'm guessing that the one who I'm talking to right now is Dan.

"Thank you, Dan." I said. I smiled to myself when I saw the surprised look on their faces. I'm guessing that I got the name right. Dan faced his brother with a confused look. I smiled before closing the window.

Even though I said the carriage was huge, I still have to squeeze my way to the seat since there are some baskets piled in here. What are these? Props?

The carriage started to move. It was rocky at first but after a while, it began to steady. I peeked out of the curtain to see that we had just arrived in a village. People were milling every store. When they saw us, they bowed their heads in respect. Some would wave at us. They seemed to be loved by the people, I thought.

Wait. Hold on. This can't be right. If there's a village over here then this isn't a simple roleplay. This might actually be real. Was I taken to an old country where princes and princesses exist? How long was I actually passed out?

The carriage came to a stop and I almost bumped my head onto the wall. Aren't there any seatbelt's in here?!

The door swung open and the twins appeared. "The queen wishes for you to come out." Ren said. I don't know how I know that it is him. Maybe because of the tone of his voice.

"Why?" I asked.

Dan grinned "Well, we have a new luggage here. Well, all of them are the dresses that the queen has bought for you."

Then I realized what he meant. If we add more stuff in here then I might as well be squished. "How many are they?" If it's only 2 then I can handle it. Besides, where will I ride?

"About 20"

"20?!" I gasped.

"Yes, the queen seemed pretty excited."

"Stupid Queen and her stupid plan and her stupid dresses." I grumbled. She could have bought me their version of a smart phone here. "Where will I sit?" I asked.

"Well...that's for the queen to decide."

Reluctantly, I got out while groaning. I can't believe this. This is the only carriage, meaning I have to ride a horse. Don't get me wrong, I love horses. The problem is that we don't have a spare one, meaning I might ride at the top of the carriage. What a bummer! But at least I'll have a nice view from there, right?

"Rose." The queen called me. I lifted my head to hers and raised one of my eyebrows. "What?" I snapped.

"To whom would you like to ride?" She gestured her hands to the princes. What does she mean by that? Does it mean that I have to ride with some total strangers?.....Well it's too late since all of them are strangers. I'm surprised that I haven't panicked yet.

I said yet.

I shook my head "Is that even a question? Can't I ride with you?"

She smirked. "Sorry, dear. It's too dangerous if you ride with me. And besides, I like to ride alone. So, go on. Pick!"

I have to stop myself from flipping her off. My eyes darted to the 3 princes who are on their horses. It seems too cliché. She's doing this on purpose!

Prince Fred noticed my distress and got off his horse. "Princess Rose, you can take my horse. I can walk on my own." He offered me the horse. "I'll just lead it for you." He nodded his head and brought out that smile of his. The girls from this village squealed. I couldn't blame them, this Fred guy is charming.

The queen huffed. "I guess that could work. Oh well. I'm going on ahead. Please watch over her. I'm going to arrange for dinner and tell the servants to prepare her room. Tooda loo" with that, she was off. Riding her horse so fast that I was the one who shivered.

I really want to flip her off and scream bloody murder.

I let Prince Fred help me on the horse. He grabbed my waist and hauled me up and gave me the reins. "Are you comfortable enough?" He asked.

"Yes, I guess. Thanks." I nodded my head once to let him know my appreciation. I looked at the pretty boy and gave him an unsure smile.

Seeing that I am all secured on the horse, we started to ride again. Prince Fred guiding my horse.

People started to stare at me. Well, at my clothes that is. I forgot that I was still wearing shorts and a tank top, while the girls in this village are wearing dresses. In return, I glared at them. I wanted to scream that their queen brought me here. If they have a problem with me, they better bark at their queen.

And now with the gossiping. It seems that wherever I go, the gossip never stops. Some guys were even staring at my exposed legs that I showed them my middle finger. I heard a horse snorting beside me. It was Prince Nate riding his horse. He started to untie his cape and offered it to me.

"Here," he said. "It would give you some cover."

"Thanks." Not looking away from his face, I took it and wrapped it around me.

He scratched his head as if he was embarrassed. "We figured that it was rude to say something about what other people would wear. Sorry, next time we'll give you a warning."

"It's Fine." I said and focused on my surroundings. Not like it really bothered me anyway. I saw the girls giving me a jealous look as they eyed the cape that I wore around me. Being the petty little brat that I am, I gave them all a teasing grin and waved the cape at them victoriously. I smirked wider as I saw the bitterness in their eyes.

"And besides," he added, which made me turn my attention to him once again. "It looks good on you. It should be a crime to cover it up." he finished with a wink.

When I scowled at his comment he laughed.

"I'm sorry." Prince Nate while laughing. I didn't respond.

"That's what you get for disrespecting a lady, Prince Nate" Prince Fred said. His face told me that he had witnessed the exchange a while ago and was amused by it.

"I was just trying to lighten the mood." He pouted.

"A simple conversation would have been okay."

"Okay, okay. I'm really sorry. Forgive me?" He made his eyes grow bigger, he pouted and showed his lower lip.

I groaned "I guess." I hope they stop talking.

"Hey, you guys seem to have fun over there, let us join too!" One of the twins called from the carriage.

"Keep your voice down. Remember, we're still in the village so we must be in proper behavior." PRINCE Ace cut in. He sat on his horse with his back straight. He rode beside Nate.

"Sheesh! Live your youth once in a while, Ace. You're too stiff!" Ren shouted back.

"Join us in our conversation, Prince Ace." inserted Prince Fred.

"I'm just saying that a good image is important. It will help you to gain respect from the people." PRINCE Ace's attention turned to me. "You seemed like the person who doesn't care about it. Look at the way you dress, it's humiliating to the people around you. And to think that she's a princess. Teaching her to act like a lady will be a pain. It's not worth our time."

I frowned at him. It's not like I know their dress code here. And I'm not even a princess! I'm not even gonna cry about it, but he's now on my naughty list. Is he picking a fight with me?

"Hey, Ace. Now that has gone too far" Prince Nate warned.

"Princess Rose, don't mind him. He's had a rough day." Prince Fred tried to comfort me.

"He's right, princess. Don't mind him. He's the one that's not worth your time." Said Dan.

"What's your problem anyway, Ace? She didn't do anything to deserve that kind of attitude!" Ren couldn't help but yell. The dark haired prince and I met gazes. I smirked and stuck my tongue out at him.

Five of us against him. Sad boy.

"Talk to her all you want, but don't drag me in it." PRINCE Ace said. "Disgusting woman. I bet you're having a good time with all the attention that they are giving you."

Disgusting? If he thinks that he can just step on me then he is so wrong. Nobody can call me disgusting just because of what I wear. We are beyond that time already!!

Or are we? What year is it in this world?

"Stop the car! I mean horse!" I said and unconsciously pulled the reins up. Prince Fred barely managed to stop as well. Then I pointed at him. "Who are you to even judge me? You don't even know me. Did you think that just because you met me a while ago that you already know who I am? You think so highly of respect." I said "Respect is earned not bought. I don't care if you are a prince or not, but if you don't respect me then you don't deserve my respect either."

He didn't say anything anymore. Thankfully.

Prince Fred once again guided my horse to the same path we took earlier while Prince Nate shook his head at PRINCE Ace.

"Congrats, Princess. It was probably the first scolding he has received in public." Dan gave me a thumbs up.

"It was?! Oh no." I said sarcastically. I even waved my hands as I dismissed the thought.

"Don't worry. We're on your side in this. He did deserve a slap or two." Ren assured me.

"And we'll protect you if he attempts to kill you. I'll be your knight in shining armor, Princess" Prince Nate appeared beside me.

"What are you blabbering about being her knight in shining armor?"

"I'm just trying to ease her worry. And as for the knight in shining armor role, it fits me well since I did offer her my cape and saved her from those corrupted eyes of our people." Nate stated.

"Well if you're the knight, then I'm her Prince Charming." Prince Fred winked. I couldn't agree more with pretty boy. He's pretty much the most decent one among them.

"Hey! Now what does that leave the two of us?" The twins yelled.

"Her servants, of course." Nate was still grinning. I didn't notice it but I started to laugh. Somehow, my worries had faded into thin air.

"Hey look. She's laughing!" Dan said, relieved.

"No, I'm crying." I said sarcastically.

"Glad to see her smiling now." Nate said.

We just talked and joked all throughout the ride. Prince Ace was riding behind us. Not talking which I was grateful for.

"Oh look. We're here." Ren announced and I suddenly realized that we had stopped.

I focused my attention to the castle in front of us. It was a huge castle. Stones lead the way to the castle. In front of it was a fountain. Two stairs lead to one door. All around us is a garden. To the left is a large pavilion. To the right is another path way to the stables. The castle stood high and mighty.

At the entrance of the castle stood the queen and the servants, probably waiting for our arrival. I saw a man, maybe in his 40's, standing beside the queen. I'm guessing it's the king.

"Like it?" Prince Nate asked beside me.

"Uh hu." I just nodded my head. "Are we gonna stay here?" I asked.

Dan got off the carriage. "Yep. Welcome to the Kingdom of Thalia." Just as he said that, Ren added. "The kingdom of magic."

Yea right. It does look magical.

I'm in love. For a brief moment, I even thought about wanting to live here. I raised a hand and slapped myself. No. I shouldn't be blinded.

"Here, let me help you down." Prince Fred said and helped me down on my feet. They guided me through the stone floor and up to the door.

"So, how do you find your NEW home?" The queen asked. A smile tugging on her lips when I didn't answer and instead, surveyed the surrounding with my eyes.

"I-" I started but the queen cut me off.

"Never mind. Dinner's almost ready. We have to dress you up. Ladies," the queen snapped her finger to the servants. "Bring her to her room and dress her up for dinner."

"Yes, my queen." The servants said at the same time.

When she said dress, that's when the spell of the castle broke. "Wait," I took a step back and almost fell off the stairs if Ren hadn't caught me. He helped me set my footing again. "What do you mean by get DRESS?!?!?"

The Queen and the servants had evil looks on their faces. I gulped. I don't mind wearing shorts, but dresses are a different story.

"When you said dress, you didn't mean....." I trailed off, knowing that the queen fully understood what I was about to say.

"Oh yes." With a single motion of the queen's hand, the servants tried to grab me, but I was fast.

I hid behind Ren since he was near me and used him as a wall between the servants. Since there were at least 5 of them, they got past Ren easily. A servant grabbed my cape and pulled it. I almost choked, but I untie it and the servant fell.

"No!"

I ran to Nate next and hid behind him. "Sir Nate, you said that you were my knight in shining armor, right? Then do something and save me!!"

Nate had an amused look on his face. "As you wish, princess." He caught me off guard when he carried me bridal style. "I'll save you from the eyes of these men by giving you to these ladies to be dressed PROPERLY."

"What?!"

Instead of answering, he just winked and approached the servants.

"Oh Prince Nathaniel, thank you!" The girls sighed dreamily.

I flail wildly "Traitor!" I accused.

He pretended to be hurt by putting a hand to his heart. "My love, how you broke my heart."

"Look! A pretty lady." I pointed behind him.

"Where?!----- Umf!" When he looked behind him, I took the chance to get away but not before stomping on his foot. Serves him right.

I ran to Prince Fred next. "Prince Fred! You said that you're my Prince Charming, right? Help me!"

Prince Fred smiled. "Yes, Princess. I am your Prince Charming"

I sighed in relief.

"And Prince Charming would like to see his Princess in a dress." With that, he grabbed my arm.

I squeaked and elbowed him. "Umf!" He released his hold.

I grabbed Dan and Ren next. "As my servants, I order you to protect me!"

"What do you think Ren?" Dan asked his brother.

"I don't know. But I do want to see her in a dress." Ren said.

"You know? You're right. It might be interesting." With that said. The two took hold of my arm and pushed me to the servants. "Traitors!" I yelled as the servants took me away. When I looked behind me, I saw them waving at me with a smile on their faces.

Bastards, I'll get you guys for this. And here I thought we all formed a mutual sense of respect for one another!

The servants lead me to a room on the second floor. They brought me to a rather large room with a twin size bed with curtains falling from it. The floor was made of red carpet. There was also a door that leads to a terrace. There was a large closet on the far side of the wall facing my bed.

A vanity table was beside it.

The servants locked the door and pushed me in the bathroom and cleaned me until the dirt and the smell of horses were gone.

Once I was done, I was wrapped in a bathrobe and was asked to sit on the bed while they shuffled the bag full of dresses, probably the one that the queen bought earlier. While they were busy shuffling for dresses, I grabbed my fallen shorts and tank and folded them neatly and hid them under my pillow. In case of emergency.

They finally brought out a floor length gown.

It was sky blue with ruffles on the neck. It was long sleeved which made me hate it even more since I know that it'll be hot.

"No." I said.

"Princess you have to wear this." said the servant who was holding the dress.

I ignored the Princess title. "Make me!" I challenge myself.

She sighed. "Girls, you know what to do." The servants approached me and suddenly I was cornered on my bed.

"Mommy?" I whimpered

***

They won this time. They had managed to make me wear the dress. But I swear if they didn't gang up on me, I could have taken them. They also made me wear heels, but I don't mind though. The heels were only an inch or two tall.

"Time for your hair and makeup!"

"What?! Look, I agreed-" I started but was cut off.

"-forced" corrected the servant.

"-to wear this dress and these shoes, but don't make me wear those make up!"

"Princess, you have to. Every princess should be presentable every time!"

"I said no!"

The door swung open and the queen came in and closed the door behind her. "What's going on here?"

"My Lady, she-"

"I'm not wearing it!" I pointed to the table where the make up was set.

The queen sighed. "It's just make up, dear." She approached the table and grabbed the face powder and brush. "Come here."

"Get. Away. From. Me" I warned. Either she didn't hear it or she was stubborn.

"It'll be quick" she promised and took another step closer. I grabbed one of my shoes and raised it in the air like a sword. "You have to get through me first."

"Fine." She pointed her finger at a chair and a ribbon. They began to float in the air and tied me to the chair. "What the hell was that!? What is happening!?"

Things floated in the air!

"You didn't say that I couldn't use magic, right?"

"Girl, who cares!? Do it again?" I was being silly right now for being attracted to her magic show. If I could clap then I would have already.

"No. We need to get ready."

5 minutes later, there was make up on my face. They were kind enough to make it light. Now, there was a rosy blush on my cheek, brown eyeshadow was applied, and a nude pink lipstick. My hair was in a neat bun with loose curls to the side.

"There, now don't you look CIVILIZE?" The queen teased.

I glared at her and forgot the fact that I just saw things floating. I did not have the energy to do anything else. My mind is becoming a mess. I bit my lips unconsciously.

"Don't do that. You'll eat your lip stick." She grabbed my arm and hauled me up. "Enough, we have wasted a good 5 minutes. We should go. Now"

"It was your fault for wasting those five minutes. If only you didn't busied yourself with applying make up on me then we could have gotten there earlier." I grumbled. "Stupid other world, stupid makeups, stupid castle, and stupid dresses."

"Well, if only you'd cooperate then we could have gotten there earlier, no?"

"Whatever." I let it slide since I was hungry. Seriously, princesses need to look like this everyday? What a pain.

As we were going down the stairs. I saw that the princes were also dressed nicely. The twins were wearing blue long sleeved shirts and pants. There are some kinds of gold patches on their shoulders. Nate was well suited with his maroon colored tuxedo with a white shirt underneath. At the back, his red tux formed a 'W'. Ace was dressed in black, which made me wonder if he took my advice. It was buttoned down with gold lines going down vertically. Fred was dressed opposite of Ace. He looked good with white. It made his hair even lighter. There were also gold lines that designed his long sleeved button down attire. He looks good. Their eyes were focused on us once we were half way down the stairs. The four of them smiled while Ace just stared at me with a blank expression.

Once we reached the end of the stairs, Nate approached and nodded at the queen. "Wow!" He exclaimed while looking at me. "This is not good for my heart."

"Why?" I wondered. A little worried that he may have heart problems.

"You're too cute." he winked at me.

"I feel like my hand might slip and I'll punch someone." I said sweetly.

The twins got in between us and glared at Nate. "You've been taking advantage of our princess now, Nate."

I gapped at them. Our princess!?

Ren on the other hand faces me. A soft smile on his lips. "You look beautiful today, Princess. I was glad that we handed you over to the servants." He winked just like Nate. Are they all a flirt?

I snapped my fingers. "Which reminds me." I said and pulled Ren's ear. "This is your punishment for handing me to the enemy earlier!"

"Ow! Why am I the only one punished?!" Ren whined.

"Cause you're the one who reminded me." I said with a deadpan expression.

"Sorry. Remind me to never remind you again. Okay?"

"If I do that then I am basically reminding myself."

Prince Fred approached me next. "You look more beautiful than this morning. The dress suits you well." He complimented me.

Am I seeing things? Or is he beginning to sparkle? Very lightly, I waved at the air around us to shoo the pesky sparkles away. Nope. Still there.

"Aw, come on, Fred. Stop using your charms on her." Dan pouted.

"Enough with the chit chat. Let's eat." The queen walked to the table and sat on the seat beside the King. Prince Ren pulled my seat for me, which was really sweet.

I sat between Ren and Dan while the beast(Ace) sat in front of me. So it was a glaring contest between us. Nate sat beside Ren while Fred sat beside Ace. The food was served. It seemed that our menu for today is mash potato and chicken with tons of gravy and ribs.

After saying a silent prayer I was about to dig in when I had a little problem. A pile of spoons of all sizes were lined up beside me. Great, which utensil should I use now?

I peeked at Prince Fred and saw him using the fork in the middle of the set of eating utensils.

Just as I was about to reach it. Ren stopped me and took a table napkin that I didn't notice right beside my plate and placed it on my lap.

"You should always place it there in case you'll drop something and ruin your dress." He said politely.

"Thank you" I said and started to cut the meat but it was too hard. When I tried to force it to tear, a piece of meat went flying and onto Ace's plate. He was surprised by the magical meat and searched for the culprit.

Oops

I gently placed the knife and fork down and pretended to be interested in my surroundings. Beside me, I heard Prince Dan chuckle softly. Glad to see him amused.

"Here, let me help." He grabbed my knife and fork and he cut the meat into smaller pieces.

After finishing to cut the meat, he proceeded to eat his dinner. "Thanks" I whispered to him. It was embarrassing how I seem to be the only one with poor table manners.

Ren though, decided to tease me by getting my spoon and feeding me a spoon full of mashed potato. "Here baby, say ahhh."

"Knock it off." Even though I was offended by that gesture, I chuckled. "I'm not a child."

"She's right, Ren." Nate added. "She's not a baby, she's a BABE" he added with a wink.

Hang on my dear sweet fist. Please do not punch him.

"Rose dear," the queen called. I snap my attention to her. She was beaming when she gestured to the King. "This here is your 'uncle' Luke." The king smiled at me. "Well, it's so nice to finally meet you my dear." He said and dab the napkin through his stubble.

"'Sup, 'uncle'." Was all I said. So the King is also a part of this...

"My, you need a lot of work Rose." The queen clicked her tongue and eyed my messy plate. I frowned and formed a protective circle around my plate.

"Dan could help you with the proper table etiquette, but I prefer Nate to help you with that." She looked at Nate for his approval.

Nate nodded his head. "I'd be happy to."

"As for your dance lessons, I would like to ask this favor of you, Prince Fred."

"Of course, your Grace."

"Say what?!" I exclaimed. "Why do I need dance lessons for?!" I asked and shoved another slice of meat into my mouth. This is delicious!

"Every princess must know how to dance." she said.

"Nu uh!" I said stubbornly.

She tsked again "Oh we better do something about that language of yours. Ren, Dan, I would like you to teach her how to behave like one, okay?"

"Yes, your highness" the twins said at the same time. I was uncertain by the queen's choice. I mean, the twins? Teaching me about behavior??

Even though my mouth was full of meat, I still laughed. Really? The twins? If I know better, we're like the three stooges.

The queen must have noticed my uneasiness. "Don't worry, Rose. Even though they don't behave well in front of us, they are well mannered when it comes to guessing." She assured me.

"As for the history and the background of this kingdom, I would like to ask this of you, Ace."

No....

"Yes, your grace." From the way he said it, he wasn't as happy about it as me.

"Well, now that it's settled," the queen grabbed her fork and knife. "Let's eat!!"

After dinner we all went in our separate ways. The servants guided me to my room. The princes could have escorted me, but the queen told(ORDERED) them to rest.

I was too happy for the day to be over that I didn't even think about changing. I yawned loudly before I lay down on the bed. As I fell asleep, I dreamed of another castle.

A castle that was smaller and different from this one.