3 Chapter 3 - Why should I care?

Victoria managed to keep her head high as she walked to the gates, where everyone was patiently waiting for the Prince. She knew she had to be tough and strong. The courtyard was a large place, usually used for events. It was no surprise that it was filled with people - nobles patiently waiting for the arrival of the Prince. Some girls were giggling at one side, gossiping about the Prince's looks. Another Princess from Spain was giving Victoria dirty looks which she returned, graciously.

Victoria simply shook her head. She wasn't bothered by the Prince. All these ladies are head over heels for him, she thought. If only they knew the anger she felt at his arrival, they wouldn't be jealous of her.

The gates were opened widely and expensive looking carriages rode in. It was their tradition when Royalties from other countries were visiting, to be warmly welcomed. The Queen, King and palace nobles would wait in the courtyard while the visitors arrived. A feast would take place and it would be all merry and party until they left. Gifts would be given to the visitors and in return, they would give their own gifts. In the recent times, the country of Ayram had been faced with difficulty due to famine, warfare and crises. It all began during the reign of Alexandra who didn't have proper direction on how to govern the country and ended up putting it in crises.

Ayram had been a strong nation which others feared, due to its richness and ability to conquer almost all its neughbouring countries. In Ayram, there are twelve cities - Mozhant, Sifara, Edina, Bella, Xhina, Amara, Cicada, Yunara, Tarela, Ireni, Gadab, and Diagalder its capital.

Victoria raised her head slightly and adjusted her posture. Queen Anne was beaming from ear to ear. It had been her dream for her daughter to marry the Prince of Florence. Marrying into a popular family increased their popularity and strength. The carriages came to a halt and the people started piling out.

The Prince walked graciously towards the Queen and King. He was a man that depicted courage, tall and slim with broad shoulders, a long face and high cheekbones, he was every woman's dream - just not Victorias'. After exchanging pleasantries, he walked up to Victoria who mananged a small smile. She couldn't deny that he was very handsome. He smiled bashfully at her. It was obvious he was quite smitten by her.

"And how do you do, my lady?" He kissed the tip of her hands. She quickly withdrew her hand, and composing her posture, replied, "I'm good, thank you. How was the journey, my Prince?"

"Quite long, I would say. But it seems the longness of the journey shouldn't have been a problem. Since I got to see the most breathtaking beauty I had ever seen."

Victoria blushed, "Oh. Well, unfortunately I wouldn't say the same." Prince William's mouth dropped open. He couldn't believe his ears. All the girls flocked after him, but here was someone who cared less about him.

Turning, she entered the palace without a second thought of looking back.