CHAPTER 4 : THE DAY ARRIVES

I am walking towards the carriage in my dress, which I designed with the combination of a pegain-style dress with a heavy-skirted Naxosian style. I wore fitted pants beneath the heavy floor-length overskirt, which parted in the middle to reveal the fitted pants. Heeled shoes protruded an inch off the floor. The sleeves are too short, but I wear gloves so long that they overlap the short sleeves.

My top is fastened at the back of my dress; the crimson lace is heavily embroidered on the skirt and the bodice; and the neckline is just short of my collarbone. Modest and yet not matronly, it was neither traditional nor like the style any lady of court would wear, but I would certainly like to try something different. The intricate details on the dress give it a unique and elegant touch, making it stand out in a crowd.

The combination of modern elements with a hint of traditional flair creates a fashion statement that is both bold and sophisticated.

A black heart pendant rests on my neck, which is embedded with black crystals.

'I bow as I see my father waiting for me at the carriage door. '

"As always, you continue to look beautiful, my father says as a wide grin spreads on his face. "

'I believe every father would want his daughter to be happy and to start a new chapter in her life joyfully rather than making a mistake by falling in love with the wrong guy. I think he is more concerned because my mother wasn't around, and he never remarried because he never thought that anyone would live up to that title.

Even though he tried to get me married to multiple men, he never forced me to marry anyone; all he did was get me to meet with men so maybe I could find the one. I truly appreciate him for all he has done for me. '' I am grateful for his support and guidance in helping me navigate the complexities of relationships. His unconditional love and care have shaped me into the person I am today, and I will always cherish his efforts to ensure my happiness and well-being.

''Thank you, your highness. I spoke clearly.''

''Please do take care of yourself; I believe Clovelly is not much away,'' he asked, inquiring about it.

"Yes, Father, it is about 17 miles from Brookland," I answered him.

''Princess, the carriage is ready. I believe we should leave so we can reach our destination before it gets dark. Orion comes and informs me. ''

"Au revoir, father," I said.

"Farewell, my dear." My father kissed my head, and then I got in the carriage and waved him goodbye. As the carriage started moving, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness about the journey ahead. The thought of finally arriving at Clovelly and starting this new chapter in my life filled me with anticipation.

After a while

As I sit here, I am feeling incredibly bored, so I decided to ask Orion some questions just to kill time.

"Orion?? " I poked at his shoulder.

"Yes, princess?" he asked, looking to his side.

"What do you prefer more, horseback riding or archery?" I asked out of curiosity.

"Well, your highness I enjoy archery a lot, but horseback riding is more calming, so I would have to say both. What about you?" He was smiling this time.

Horse riding definitely, I said as I sat up straight. Hey, Orion, what is your favourite memory of your childhood?

He chucked, "Wow, I forgot that we grew up together. Well, I would say it would be the first time I sneaked you into the kitchen. We talked all night and ate so much. Do you remember?"

"How can I forget? Do you remember when we got out and got caught by Madam Beryl?" I chuckled. "

"Yeah, she was so angry; it seemed like smoke was coming out of her ears," he said with a cracked smile.

"We talked the whole evening about various things; this was the first time I have seen Orion smile so much; it seemed that he was comfortable rather than on duty; I missed our friendship; I grew up to be a princess, and he was one of the most trusted men in court, but our friendship was turned into a formality in a period."

While I was lost in my thoughts, Orion announced, "We are here, princess."

I looked out from the carriage and saw a beautiful castle from afar; it was painted in a dull silver colour with shades of blue mixed in. The surroundings were just as beautiful; it was like heaven on earth. The lands were lush green and spread as far as one's eyes could see. As we entered the city, we were welcomed by little girls who were throwing white flowers at the carriage. I waved at them; they had wide smiles on their faces.

Oh, how lovely it was to see this! It was enchanting. We reached the castle, and Orion opened the door for me and held out his hand. I held his hand and got out. I looked at the castle, which looked magnificent; it was not only a ball for royals but for locals as well, as I saw people entering. How sweet of him; maybe the new king might not be as bad as I thought. As we walked towards the entrance, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for the evening ahead. The music and laughter coming from inside the castle only added to my growing sense of wonder.