softly We must secure the eastern alliance with this union... It's paramount for our reign.
why? I thought your dad already did that with northrup at his wedding
My father may have made an alliance with Northrup, but his methods were weak. she grips Hallumed's hand tightly
well aren’t you the spoiled princess. Tell me bella, how are you gonna secure that eastern alliance with a wedding?
By marrying into the royal family of the East, of course. she smiles
Yes, with Daryl. She pulls Hallumed closer And we will use this opportunity to assert our dominance over the kingdom.
You realize he’s not exactly… wealthy? That house is mortgaged up to its teeth. The East will be lucky to break even on this deal.
Wealth is overrated. Power and influence are what truly matter. And through my marriage to Daryl and our strategic alliance with the East, we will gain both. She runs her fingers through Hallumed's hair Trust me, Hallumed, this is just the beginning of our rise to greatness.
Okay well I gotta go pack up my things i was sent here on short notice. I guess you forgot to tell me I am NOT invited to the wedding?! How thoughtless. huffs out of room
calling after Hallumed Don't be so dramatic! You'll get your own invitation... once you learn your place.
I know my place. And it ain’t standing idly while my King marries his pretty plaything
through gritted teeth I am not a plaything, Hallumed. I am your future queen. Remember your place.
very funny. At least order me some new clothes from East or something. My Lord knows I am Not wearing these garments to the wedding
Of course, Hallumed. Consider it done. She sends a servant to fetch a wardrobe from the East
*it turns out Daryl spent all of his wealth on art. Having to sell many of his fathers treasuries to buy it. so he won’t be paying for any part of the wedding either. More money off the table for the east.
So it seems like my plan is coming together perfectly. Our marriage will secure the alliance and bring power to both our kingdoms. She smiles triumphantly
Here. Take this message and see where it gets you. Have fun while you’re at it. places sealed envelope in her hands
What's inside, Hallumed? She opens the envelope curiously
giving their son exclusive right to trade with you. Which he will trade with you regardless. you giving him incentive to control said trade
her eyes widen in realization This... This is a brilliant idea, Hallumed.
Yeah, don’t tell anyone about that or I’ll be killed
Don't worry, Hallumed. Your secret is safe with me. She pats Hallumed's cheek gently You are truly a genius in these matters.
Speaking of genius, ever considered asking prince Leandros to join our ranks?
Leandros? Why would I do that? He's nothing compared to Daryl.
Exactly. if you give him the imression he can tip the scales of power. You may stand to gain from it
I'll consider it, Hallumed. After all, power is a tool that should never be underestimated. She smirks
smiles slyly Oh, think of the scandal it'd cause. One prince betrothed to another! The courtiers would be frothing at the mouth!
chuckles darkly Yes, let's play with fire, shall we? Let's stir up chaos and watch the courtiers squirm.
And in the end, we’re the ones holding the flame
smirks Oh, Hallumed, this is truly brilliant. We will use Leandros to create chaos and gain power for ourselves. We will become unstoppable!
Though if he declines, it’d make it seem like we were trying to horn in on his territory
nods You're right. We wouldn't want it to seem like we're encroaching on his territory.
If you want to ask him, I’ve heard he spends most of his days reading books in his library in case you want to present your plan to him. Though i heard he only leaves his library if he absolutely has to.
I understand. If Leandros refuses, then we will have to find another way to gain power. She crosses her arms confidently But first, we need to focus on securing our alliance with the East. She stands up straight, looking determined Hallumed, I will be meeting with the Eastern ambassadors tomorrow to discuss the details of our alliance. Make sure you're prepared to assist me in negotiating the terms. Our future depends on it.
Good luck Bella. And I mean that genuinely. Even if you are working with Daryl. Perhaps I’ll see about snatching a dress or two from your dad for myself. Those things were made for a man of my broad shoulders and short stature. Ah well. whatever. You still got a night left before having to wed your prince.
smirks I wouldn't dare wear my father's dresses, Hallumed. They would be far too extravagant for someone as stylish as myself. She walks towards the mirror, inspecting her reflection Besides, I plan on making my own fashion statement on my wedding day.
I look forward to seeing it. Will this event mark the first time you leave this castle or something?
raises an eyebrow Oh, Hallumed, I've left the castle many times. But this will be the first time I leave under my own terms.
Well maybe once your married, you’ll finally get the crown you’ve been acting like you’ve already got.
narrows her eyes Don't underestimate me, Hallumed. I may be the future queen, but I've worked hard to earn that title.
Have you really? I feel like all you do is parade around in this castle being treated as if you’re already queen when you haven’t even married yet. To the point where poor dear Sarah, Daryl’s sister has had to step out of the spotlight because she feels overshadowed by her betrothed wife to be.
crosses her arms, her voice dripping with sarcasm Oh, poor little Sarah. Maybe she should try being as ambitious as I am instead of wallowing in self-pity. After all, I won't apologize for being talented and successful.