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Chapter Text

The world of a royal could be quite cruel. It was not the parties and fancy dresses the media had made it out to be, no. It was so much more than that. Layered history, most of it being bloodshed and war.

For whether you are the King or a lowly farmer, everybody had their parts to play in contributing society. No part greater than another. For a King, or any royal, their job is to lead, to guide and ensure the protection of their citizens. For a noble, their jobs were to manage the smaller factions of the land the king could not bother himself to oversee.

And if you were a farmer or peasant, sure, you might have been poorer than the rest, but you also had a job. From continuing your life as farmer, becoming the backbone of society, providing goods and food to all or you could rise above your station, train to become a soldier or knight, many sought out this path, as it aided their families in terms of providing.

“In the beginning, there was no royalty, only clans. Hundreds of them. There was war.

For thousands of years these clans and tribes fought each other to the death, mercilessly. All seeking to be the sole rulers of the earth.

Then 7 members, each of different families stepped up. They united their people and ended what they believed to be senseless violence and death.

They would soon become the seven Royal Families of what is now the seven continents.

Abraham. The house that ruled over Australia, the land of deadly creatures and known for their survivalist way of life. They held strong connections with all the other kingdoms.

Fedartsova. The royal family who ruled over the North. They were the weakest in terms of power, given they were in the process of revolution, a group (more like a cult) was taking over. Many were sure that by the end of the year that it would not exist as a monarchy anymore.

Over Europe, ruled the Levins. They were quiet but just as Australia did, they held close connections with everyone else.

In fact, it was rumored that the princess, Lexie, once she was finished studying abroad in Manila that she would marry the heir of Australia, Ezrela. Who also happened to be studying in Manila alongside her. It made sense given they spent all their time together. A perfect match, many would say.

And then the Sarpongs. They ruled over Africa, they are well known for their fortunate looks and producing some of the worlds most beautiful people. The family itself on the other hand were a whole other level of beauty, their youngest daughter specifically.

However, there is much controversy surrounding the family as their youngest, had fled 3 years ago at the age of 14 and never returned.

A search, of course, was in order immediately but she was never found. In the search, they discovered her ring on the side of a river, the one with her family's crest engraved in it. She was deemed deceased after that.

Many theorize she had been kidnapped or murdered by bandits or a gang. The popular running theory is that she was sick of living her life as a perfect princess and being forced into the image that she left for a new kingdom, changing her name and identity.

A funeral was held as the world grieved the loss of Princess Meret Sarpong.

Then there were the two most powerful houses and kingdoms. Laforteza of Asia and Avanzini of the southern hemisphere. Both currently at war with one another, as it has been for the last year.

But that is a lesson for another day, As I was saying:

The world which had once been divided by chaos, war and never ending death and suffering was now peaceful all thanks-”

“Yes yes, all thanks to great Kings Rafael and Godfrey. I have heard this story a million times, Mr. Grant.” Daniela groans, “I know it by heart.”

The older man laughs, “yes your highness. I should hope so. It is important that a princess knows her country's history. People need to know that you are well informed as their leader.”

Daniela sits up, “But I am not a leader? My brother, Jonah is. I will never take the throne, I am a girl. And even if women could succeed, my sister Naisha would surpass me regardless, no?”

“That is right. But if you are ever to be wed-”

Daniela rolls her eyes as she dramatically groans again, “Wed? I turned 18 mere weeks ago and everyone is already asking when I shall have a ring on my finger? Perhaps I do not want to be wed, perhaps I never will!” she declares.

She had found it quite odd how all of her lessons as of late had been regarding history and her country's origin. As well as other monarchs and leaders of other lands. Being the youngest of her three siblings, she had seen none of this as her business. Her job was to sit still and look pretty, that is what a lady was for. More importantly, it is what made her father happy.

It managed to get polite nods of approval from the king. Acknowledgement. Something she so eagerly yearned for, and yet never received. Sure, her teachers had given grins and pats on the back. Endless praise, yet none of it was as fulfilling, not unless it came from him.

Grant frowns. “You highness-”

The doors open, a guard, “Your highness! The king requests your presence in the throne room at once. It is not optional, he says.

Daniela pouts but stands nevertheless, dusting off her dress and nodding to her tutor. “Thank you Mr. Grant. I shall see you the day after next, yes?”

He does not answer, he appears rather nervous. As though he is hiding something. Still he nods, “yes, Princess. Of course, as always.”

Daniela notices, of course she did. However she chalked it up to anxiety mention of the king, her father. He was not a cold man, not in her opinion anyway, only strict. That was good, it meant he took his role as leader seriously.

“Your highness? You know your father is not a patient man.”

“Yes, of course. Till later, Sir Grant!” she smiled as she left the room.

Grant only stared after her as he sighed and looked to the ground.

‘God help that poor child.’

______

As she walks he wonders why her presence is required. She comes up with a multitude of reasons and hypotheticals.

“Perhaps he is to discuss more publicity events? Or! Maybe he finally allowed me to get a dog! I have been begging for weeks now, it is certainly a possibility!” she grins, her pace now picking up as her desire to find out increases.

Her attendant, a boy with dark hair, smiles as he guides her, “Yes your majesty, it is quite possible.”

“Do you know anything about it, Sir Sunoo?” she asks.

“My lady, I have told you, just Sunoo is fine.” he laughs, “But no, I have not heard what will be discussed.” he answers as they reach the doors of the throne room.

“Nonsense, I respect you too much” she pouts. “Thank you anyway.”

He chuckles, “I am grateful your majesty sees me in such a light.”

The doors open and they begin to enter, but Sunoo is stopped by a guard.

“What are you doing? He is my attendant. He is allowed in as well, let him go!” she demands.

The guards do not budge, “His majesty the king declared only royals and guards. It is a private matter. We apologize, Ms. Daniela but we cannot allow him through.”

She scoffs, “Fine.” She turns to the boy, “Wait outside these doors for me, I’m sure this will be handled rather quickly.”

“Of course, your highness.” he backs away as he bows.

She turns around and continues into the room, “Guess I am not receiving that puppy…” she grumbles.

The second set of doors are opened for her and she passes through without issue this time.

She arrives in the throne room, it is blue and red, the colors of her country. Guards, dozens, line the walls. All wearing their uniforms, standing proud to serve their king and country. On their hips, long dark sheets which hold some of the world's sharpest blades. They bow individually, as she passes them one by one.

In the center sits King Rafeal and Queen Ana, her parents. To the left her elder sister, Naisha and older brother, Jonah. Also seated in their own (but smaller) thrones. Both looking uninterested.

‘I was unaware this was a family meeting…’

She curtseyes as she stands before them.

“Father? You have called for me?” Daniela asks.

It was unusual for her father to want anything to do with her, really. Given she was the youngest and was not in line for the throne. He only ever really spent time with Jonah, her brother, who was the oldest out of the three and was preparing to be crowned soon.

Given she was the youngest and a girl, no less, he never had an interest in what she did or her affairs besides public image. She was unsure if he had ever said good morning to her in all her 18 years.

Which only made her more uneasy to find out why her father had called a family meeting to discuss. She looked at her brother, giving a look as to ask,

‘Do you know what is going on?’

He shakes his head, ‘no’.

So he is just as clueless. If he does not know, she doubts Naisha does. So she waits for her father to speak.

“Daniela.” he says, “You are the daughter of one of the greatest nations on earth, you serve your people with pride as you represent our country with grace. I thank you for your efforts.”

Jonah and Naisha look at one another, this was weird. Too weird. Their father had never offered such praise to anyone, not even Jonah. Something was wrong, he was evidently buttering her up to drop something on her.

The question- what was he dropping onto her?- a bomb or feather? Daniela feared she did not wish to find out.

The king exhaled, “...and as princess of this nation you must also be aware of the ongoing war with the Philippines. And how serious it has gotten, how it has affected our troops, our people, our family."

Daniela nods, “Yes, father, I am well aware of our country's political affairs-” she looks around, “Pardon, but” she laughs, “I do not understand what this may have to do with me? Is this not,” she gestures to her brother, “More of his department? Given he is to receive your crown soon?”

The queen looks away, “Dear, I cannot watch this any longer, please.” She turns back, her eyes welling up with tears, “Tell her the truth.”

“The truth” Jonah says now standing, “What is she talking about- Father what does she mean?”

The king's jaw tightens, “Daniela. The war is over.”

Jonah stands beside Daniela now, “Over? What? Why have I not heard of this?” he laughs, “This is cause for joy! Celebration! We took down one of the greatest nations! Praise!”

“Jonah…”

“Naisha, Daniela, you hear this?”

“Jonah.”

He calls us in here all somber and causes us great stress only to tell us of our victory!-”

“Jonah!” He shouts.

He stops, “What? What is it?”

“We… did not win. We signed a peace treaty. Under their terms.”

“Oh.”

Naisha stands with her siblings, “Well that is some good news, yes? No more violence?”

The king nods, his wife still in tears beside him as he takes her hand, “Yes, that is the goal of all of this. It is important you understand that the most, Daniela.”

If she was not confused before, she is now. She has yet to understand why her father is so focused on her and her understanding of politics. It’s none of her business besides the fact that it is her own kingdom.

Daniela’s father looked at her maybe once she was born and perhaps during family portraits but that is about it, why now does he have such a fascination with her?

“Well, Father?” Jonah says, “What have we agreed to?”

He begins to sweat, “It is… vital that you understand that I did what needed to be done. That it was for the greater good of our kingdom, our people, so that our bloodline does not die with us alone-”

“Father?” Naisha stares into his eyes, an attempt to read him.

There is nothing but silence as the realization sinks into Jonah, “what have you done…?”

“Daniela. You leave for Manila tomorrow.” he says, his voice empty of remorse.

She is stunned, Manila? That is thousands of miles away, what business does she even have in enemy territory? Should her father or perhaps even her father be the first of their blood to step foot in that place? Especially after the brutal war and battles the two nations have engaged in over the last year.

“Manila?” she says, “Father why? I should like to stay here! Home! I do think they care for the child who isn’t even inheriting the throne- why-” she pauses, “oh.”

Jonah sees red, “You sold your own daughter!?” he shouts in outrage, “My sister!? How could you? To our enemy no less?!”

“Watch your volume when speaking with me, Jonah.” he king now sounds indifferent, “I understand the situation is not favorable but-”

“To say unfavorable is an understatement, you are sending your youngest away to what? Become a prisoner!?”

“No.”

Daniela looks up, “No..? If I am not meant to be hostage then-” her eyes are blown wide, “No. no no no no. Father please do not tell me you mean-”

“-yes. You will be wed to king Sophus in 3 days time. That is final.” Her father says.

Daniela loses her balance and nearly collapses before being caught by her sister. “Father does it have to be Daniela? Please, I am older. Let me go in her place, she is only 18 as of last week! Allow me to make this sacrifice for our nation.” Naisha begs.

But Rafael does not budge, he shakes his head, “No. That is not an option. Naisha, you are 23, the house of lords there wanted the youngest bride, as to ensure an heir. It was not me who offered up your sister, it was them!”

Jonah nearly growls, “This is wrong. She is a child! And even if that much were not true, I refuse to allow this, no, NO!”

“Jonah, truly, would you rather allow them to slaughter our people and take what is ours over settling it all, the small price of marrying off your sister?” The queen asks, “Believe me this pains me so to see the child I gave birth to and watched grow up be pushed in the middle of this affair, but it is what must be done. You understand, yes?”

“I would burn all of Cuba to ensure her safety.” he mumbles.

The queen smiles, “Jonah… you do not mean that.”

“I do!” he asserts, “I would do anything for my sister- I promised!”

His chest is puffed and heaving, the sight frightens Daniela, she had never seen him so furious. The angriest he had ever gotten was perhaps when she had beaten him several times in a row in chess. Even at that, Jonah had only kicked a pillar before calming and shaking her hand in the spirit of good sportsmanship.

“I will go to Manila and I will slaughter every single one of them, Father, I promise. If you just allow me to go onto the field and fight, I can-”

“You can do what? Die and we lose our only heir and chance of succession? Absolutely not. Your mother is too old for another child and you only have sisters. If Daniela was a boy, do you not think I wouldn't have hesitated to send you to war? Do not patronize me as if I did not think about it. But we cannot afford to lose our future king.” he lectures.

“You are blaming Daniela because she was not born a man?!”

The queen frowns, “Jonah… your father only means-”

“You’re defending him!?” he screams.

The king stands, “Do not shout at your mother! I did not raise you this way-”

Jonah points an accusing finger, “You! Did not raise me at all, I am more the son of my butler than I am you. With what you have done I cannot be related to you, it is impossible, it cannot be true. If it is, then I refuse it, I refuse YOU!”

Jonah was known for being the kindest and most gentlest of the royals across the land. He attended charity events, he kept his spaces clean and even volunteered at orphanages, reading to the youth and giving them hope for futures he swore to promise them.

“Jonah Antonio Llorente Avanzini. You do not mean these words, I will not hear another word of this childish outburst. Your sister will be married come the end of this week and that is final!.” Their fathers voice booms throughout the room.

Unlike his son, Rafael was not known for his gentle manner, no. He ruled with an iron fist, and kept everyone, including his family at arms length. Nobody seemed to understand how their mother came to fall in love with him as cold as he is.

Jonah used to believe that under his fathers chill, laid a gentle man who would do anything for his family. Now? Jonah still believed that to be true, only it was not his family that he would fight for, it was the kingdom and himself.

The man he had looked up to since he was a boy had willingly offered his sister up as though she were some bargaining chip.

“And the people?” Jonah’s voice is shaky, from both anger and fear, “What will think of this? How will the people who lost their loved ones in the war feel knowing that their sacrifice was for nothing?”

“The people will not care, so long as the crown does not.”

“Bullshit!”

Daniela and Naisha gasp, “Jonah!” Daniela scolds.

The king sighs, “She is not a child, Jonah. Not anymore. It was a matter of time before some man came to procure her.” he said, as if it was not his own daughter he spoke of.

Like she was an object, something to own.

He looked bitterly at the ground. Yes, it was true Daniela was of age and the thought that she might be married one day had always been on his mind, but never did he ever think it to be so soon. He had hoped that when the day came that she would marry, that it would be for love. As the youngest, she had that luxury, she could choose, she was free. Until now.

Jonah looked to his sister, and he did not see the young woman, no. He saw the little girl he had seen her as since she was born. It broke his heart to see her in such distress. He squeezed his eyes shut as though it might erase the morning from existence.

Then, a scene flashes before him, a memory.

18 years ago, in the palace, the staff had been running rampant all day, his father stressed beyond belief. Today was the day that the newest addition to the royal family would be born. Jonah had hoped for a prince, a brother.

Not that he was not fond of his younger sister, the crown princess, but he did wish for someone to be his friend. Naisha kept to herself, reading or studying. All things he was not fond of. Unfortunately as the prince, he could not go to school in order to keep him safe. He had his own private teachers who were brilliant scholars from all over the world.

Still, nobody could quite fill the pit of loneliness he felt. That is why when his sibling had been born he was the first to be waiting outside the door to greet him. His father, of course, being the first one to see.

Moments later, his father steps out of the room, Jonah takes note of the disappointment on his face.

“Papi? Well? How is my brother? Is he well? May I go see him, now?” Jonah bounced, unable to hold in his chaotic energy.

“It is not a boy, Jonah.”

He deflates, “Not a boy? I have… another sister? A princess?” he frowns.

“I am not thrilled either.” The king mumbled, “I have a meeting to attend, go on and check on your mother for me.”

The king whisks past his son, not sparing him another glance. With that, the prince enters the room and shuts the door behind him. He stands silently, watching, unsure if he wants to come closer.

“Jonah?” His mother calls him over, “Come here, meet your sister.”

There in her bed is the queen, holding the newborn princess. She was small and currently asleep. She had been born only hours earlier, still, she was beautiful and graceful, as a royal should be.

Little Jonah, only 9 at the time, steps close to his mother as she lowers the baby down so he may look at her. He stares at her and his eyes shine. Mere seconds ago, he had been wanting a brother, now? Now he was glad that this was not a boy, for a boy could not be so perfect.

He had loved his first sister dearly, that was not a question, but he had never felt this feeling of pride when he saw her for the first time.

9 months of waiting brought this precious angel into the world. She had this glow of innocence. He needed to protect it. He must.

“Mother…”

“Yes Jonah?” she responds.

“What is her name?” He asks.

His mother smiles, “Daniela. Daniela Andrea Llorente Avanzini.”

“Daniela…” he whispers, “I shall call her Dani. Daniela is far too fancy for such a small creature.”

“Jonah… You must promise me something.” Ana says, sounding serious but soft.

“Mother?”

“Promise me you will always protect your sister. It is important you look out for her when your father and I cannot.”

He looks up with fire in his eyes, “I will protect her, mama. With my life. I won’t let anything bad happen to her, promise!” he swears, fist over his heart, saluting to the baby and their mother.

His mother only laughs, “I should hope so. As her big brother, it is your job to protect her from anything and everything. No matter what, just as you do for Naisha.”

He nodded feverishly, as sticks his hands out, asking to hold her. Ana nods, gently handing him Daniela who cries at the loss of contact with her mother.

Jonah rocks her gently, “No, no, little Dani. It is I, Jonah, Your brother!” he coo’s, “and I will be the one to protect you from all the nasty things in this world. I swear it. I won’t like you down.”

As if Daniela could truly understand him, her crying ceased, replaced by a small giggle. Oh that laugh, Jonah wished to bottle it up and keep it so that he may hear it forever.

A few moments pass in silence before he speaks again.

“You will not be allowed a husband till you are at least 40, just so we’re clear.”

“Jonah!”

“what!?”

“I won’t allow this. No.” He asserts.

“Jonah, you do not have a choice. Nobody does and especially not Daniela. Do not go feeding into her that there is a chance she may escape this.” he says coldly.

Daniela snaps out of her trance and stands up, grabbing hold of her brother's arm, “Jonah. It is alright, I will be okay” she whispers, her eyes glossy.

She turns to her father, her poise and grace as present as ever as she clears her throat. As though it could erase the burning in her throat from both vile and acid. She’s sick, she wants to hurl, but she does not. It would be improper, unbecoming of herself as a princess.

“I will do it.”

“Daniela…” A soft whisper from her sister.

“Dani.” from her brother.

“You will? Daniela, that is wonderful, I’m so glad-”

“I leave tomorrow morning for Manila, yes?”

The king is a little shocked, Daniela had never cut him like this before. She was polite and gentle, yes, that was her manner, yet somehow her words cut sharp. The fake smile might have been fooling anybody else outside her home, but her family knew best.

“...yes, that is right, but-”

Her gaze sharpens, “Then I must leave to pack now? I do not have long.”

“I suppose not-”

“Good day, Mother, siblings,” she bows to each as she calls them, “Your majesty” she bows low, the king that a servant would, not family.

His eyes widened, “Daniela!”

She does not answer, she turns around as she takes her leave. The guards almost do not open the doors in time as she jets past, slamming behind her. Her eyes burn now more than ever, tears threatening- no- forcing their way through her tear ducts. But she cannot allow them to slip, no, she mustn’t.

Not Yet.

______

Once she is alone in her room she throws herself onto her bed as she begins to sob.

“It is not fair,” she cries, “Why am I resigned to this? Is this truly all I am designed for? To be shipped off, married as though I am not a living breathing human?” she says to no one.

She does not understand why her father has done this. Has he truly that much disdain for her? Does he hate her so much that he is willing to send her across the world to be wed to a man who probably does not even know what the word “kindness” means.

Daniela, as sheltered as her father kept her, was not stupid. She had heard the stories of this “King Sophus.” The legend goes as such:

When he was born, he had immense strength, so much so that his mother, the first queen, had died giving birth to him. Due to growing out without his mothers love, he became cold and distant from all of his family. His only “friend” being his cousin and younger sister.

Growing up, his teachers and instructors only ever described him as intelligent but morbid. He was very smart, so smart that he managed a college level question when he was only 11. He also was quite the talented vocalist, those who had the privilege of hearing his golden voice all said so.

But there was another side to him. He was a brute in battle, any man who came in contact with him never left alive to tell the tale. It was not simple killings, a stab and allowing them to bleed. No, it was torturous. Bodies and limbs maimed to the point where often you could not recognize the victim.

The idea of having to spend the rest of her life with such a beast, terrified her. To eat with him, sit with him, sleep with him. It disgusted her beyond belief, she felt as though she might throw up right then and there.

Would she be forced to have his children as well? Would he be rough and hurt her? Would he care enough to be gentle? Was he like a father? Did he also believe woman's sole purpose was to reproduce nothing but sons?

The thought only fueled her anxieties as she began to sharply inhale. The tip of the ice berg that was a panic attack beginning to peak from the oceans of her lungs. She slipped over her bed, onto the ground as she brought her knees as close to her chest as possible. Still, she gasped as she sobbed.

Her bedroom door opens, “Your highness- Oh my god.” Sunno immediately came to her side, dropping to his knees.

“S-Sunoo, I- I can’t-” she chokes out, her attempts at breathing becoming more violent, “Breath.”

Sunoo holds her rightly in his arms, securing her in place as he whispers, “Worry not, Daniela, you are alright, I am here. Sunoo. I am your friend, remember?”

Daniela begins to calm down as her breath returns to a normal pace. The two sit in silence for minutes, neither move, afraid to startle the other.

“Thank you… Sir Sunoo.” she whispers.

He smiles softly, “Of course, Ms. Daniela.”

He brings them to their feet, dusting himself and her off as he helps her sit down on the bed once more.

“Now, what brought on this? What news did your father have that startled you, so?” he asks, arms crossed.

“I am getting married.” she mutters.

Sunoo grins, “Oh? Is that not cause for celebration? Who is the young man-”

“Sophus of Manila.”

Sunoo freezes at the name, the joy and color now drained from his face. It seems he, too, knew of the monster she would soon call her husband and perhaps even the father of her children. He bowed his head to her.

“I am so sorry, your highness.” he said, “When do you leave?”

“Tomorrow.”

“Morning?!”

She nods.

“Forgive me your highness, but what the hell?!” he shouts.

“Sunoo!” she laughs, “Careful, someone might hear you and charge you with treason!”

He scoffs, “Me? Treason? Please, the one who arranged this marriage should be tried for treason!”

“My father is not a bad man… Sunoo.” she trembles, “He is doing what is needed to protect our country. It is my job to bare that weight as a princess.”

He tilts his head, “Perhaps. But is it certainly not your job to maintain the heaviest of those weights. You are the people's golden child, you know this.” he pauses, “our highness, If I may, let us forget the titles. This may be one of the last time I see you.”

“Alright then.”

He stood before her, “Daniela, I have known you since I was a boy, I am but a year older than you, I was there when you were announced to society and I have served you since.”

That was true, Sunoo had practically been raised with Daniela. His family, the Kim’s, had served the Avanzini family since they had taken the throne. Their family was one of few who supported Daniela’s in their quest to unite the country, and first to pledge allegiance.

Growing up, she had come to see Sunoo as an older brother more than her servant. In fact, he was one of the only men her brother, Jonah, had trusted to be around his sister. When they were only 13, (Daniela then only 12) The prince demanded that Sunoo duel him to prove he was worthy of standing by the princess, that he could protect her should Jonah be unable.

Daniela pleaded for them not to fight. One, because it was simply improper of a royal to fight with his staff like this and two, the thought of any of them being hurt simply tore her to pieces. Nevertheless, Sunoo agreed and bravely fought the prince.

Of course, due to lack of experience (and the wealth to afford a professional trainer) Jonah had been victorious. Sunoo had taken his defeat with humility and agreed to step down from serving Daniela as promised.

Jonah only laughed and explained that he could remain his sister's attendant. Whether he won the fight was never the test, it was whether or not he was willing to fight at all even if he knew his chances were slim to none.

Plus, Jonah knew he would save the day regardless so he did not worry too much about that.

Daniela had gained so much respect for Sunoo and his bravery that she insisted she refer to him as none other than “Sir Sunoo”. To which Sunoo denied and insisted he did not deserve such a respectful title as a lowly servant.

Daniela never quite learned to drop the name even as he became her best friend and most trusted advisor.

“I may work for you father but my loyalty is forever to you and you alone. If you do not want this, I know people. I can arrange for you to escape. I can make it so that you have disappeared without a trace.”

She sighed, “There is nowhere I can go where my father or his guards will not find me.”

He huffed, “There has to be a way! I can’t let this happen to you,” he clutched his chest, “Daniela, you are my best friend, please.” he begged.

Daniela smiles as a tear slips down her face. She reaches for his cheek and gently caresses it with her thumb. “Oh Sunoo… I’ll miss you.” she whispers.

His lip quivers as his eyes tear up as well, “As will I, your majesty.”
_____

The morning of her departure had arrived far too soon.
She stands in front of the palace steps, as she tries to forget the life she is leaving behind.

The journey would only take a day and a half. Even in her travels she was not afforded rest. Her exhaustion was plain on her face.

Not only from the fact that she hadn’t slept the night before, but from the tears and muffled screams of frustration (courtesy of her pillow).

“Daniela.”

She turns to see her brother, Jonah. His eyes are red and have dark bags underneath them. He had spent all night trying to find a way out of this.

It seems he would be forced to break the promise he made to his mother and Daniela those 18 years ago.

“Naisha? Will she not come to say goodbye to me?” Daniela pouts.

“You know how she is, she knows that if she holds you now that she’ll never let go… she grieves in her own way.”

“A goodbye would still be nice…” she mutters.

Jonah nods, as he stares at his sister. Despite her being 18, he cannot help but see that infant. The one who cried when she was not held, who could not survive on her own.

Oh how he wishes he could go back to that time. When Daniela’s safety was guaranteed.

“Jonah… please do not worry for me. I shall be fine.” She whispers, attempting to sound confident, but the tremble in her voice betrays her.

“I cannot help it,” he mumbles, “you are my sister, I will always worry for you.” He tucks a stray strand of hair behind her ear.

The carriage is almost done being loaded. It will be mere minutes before Daniela is whisked away on her journey.

“I wish you could come with me.” She says.

“I do too. I cannot go and protect you myself. Father has forbidden it.” He pauses, “So I give you something- rather someone- who will defend you just as fiercely as I would.”

Jonah steps away to reveal a girl, dressed in the crown guard uniform. Daniela recognizes her as Jonah's sparring mate, Megan. Daughter of their Military General. She had met her a few times, growing up, never having spoken to her, not that Megan spoke much anyway.

It was an odd trait, almost like a dog, she followed others around and only spoke if her master commanded her to do so.

“This is Megan, you remember her, yes?”

“Of course.”

“She will go with you. She will ensure your safety at all times and report back to us monthly of your status.” He grinned, “do not worry, she works for me, not father. What she reports stays between us. Right Megan?”

Megan nods, as she stares ahead, not looking anyone in the eye, “As you wish your majesty.”

She had pink bangs, her eyes were wide yet so empty. As if there was nothing behind them. Megan had always been so… her. Daniela always found it to be odd but Jonah would reason it was due to her fathers strict teachings that she was this way.

She never got much more than that out of him as he claimed it was not his business to be caught up in her affairs when she was not ready to share.

“One last thing!” He says, reaching for his pocket, “Here. So you never forget home.”

He pulls out a ring, not just any ring, the royal ring with their family's crest on it. The one passed down from king to king since the founding of their nation.

“Fathers ring! Jonah! How on earth did you-“

“Well…” he side eyes Megan playfully, “someone is a rather excellent thief."

Megan bares no reaction, only a small hum.

“Father will kill you once he finds out!” She laughs.

Jonah takes the ring and slips it on her finger, pressing one of his own to his mouth, “Good thing you’ll never tell him then, right?”

Daniela smiled, “Thank you Jonah. I’ll miss you.”

Jonah stepped forward and hugged his sister for the last time, “As will I.”

They separate as Daniela is helped into the carriage. Megan climbs in next to her, giving Jonah a nod of promise before leaning back against the cushion opposite to Daniela. The door closes and the horses begin to move. She waves goodbye to her brother one final time. He waves back.

Daniela closed her eyes and decided to sleep the stress off.

She dreamt of being home with a loving husband and children. A marriage she chose out love. She would lie in her lover's loving embrace, knowing she was safe.

Her father would come to see how wrong he was about her. That she was worth so much more than he ever thought. That she was worthy of being his daughter, that she was just as good as any son.

But it was a dream, and it would seemingly stay that way.

______

“Your highness.”

Daniela blinks awake, her eyes adjusting to the light, “Megan what is it?”

“We have arrived.”

“Where?’’ she groans.

“Manila.”

Daniela jolts upright, realizing what Megan had meant. She looked out the window and my god was it beautiful. She had heard tales of the island and its beauty, but to see it was a whole other sight.

“Megan… it 's so beautiful, is it not?” she whispers in awe.

“Of course your majesty.” Megan affirms.

As the castle comes into the view, she becomes further in awe. It is much larger than her family’s back home, much grander than any she had ever seen in all her life.

They arrive at the castle steps and come to a halt. The door opens and Megan steps out first, scanning to ensure there is no threat. Once she is sure, she holds her hand out for Daniela to grasp.

“My lady,” she nods.

“Thank you Megan.”

Trumpets go off, they startle Daniela but she quickly regains her composure. This was it, the moment she met him, her husband, the king- Sophus.

A young man stands before her, his voice booming, “The royal family has arrived. Her Majesty, Queen Eunji and King Godfrey and her royal highness, princess Yoonchae.”

As they are titled, they come in orderly fashion down the steps as they make their way to greet Daniela.

The king stands tall, several feet from Daniela, “Lady Daniela, it is a pleasure to finally meet you. I look forward to your engagement to Soph.”

She bows, “Yes, of course.”

Yoonchae steps around her father, throwing a hug around Daniela, “Oh hello!” she pulls away, “I have been so excited to meet you! I cannot wait for the wedding, I am to be your best friend from now on. We are sisters now after all!” she squeals.

“Yoonchae darling, give the princess some space.” her mother gently scolds.

“And some respect, she is to be your Queen, come next week.” Godfrey adds.

Yoonchae backs away, mumbling something about her parents being no fun.

Daniela laughs nervously, “Truly it is truly wonderful to meet you all- but if I may, where is my fiance? I have been looking forward to meeting him most.”

“Worry not, the prince is simply busy. You will meet him at the altar come tomorrow. Believe he is just as excited as you to meet you.” her soon to be father in law.

“Oh.”

“Yes yes,” Eunjin says, “Now we shall leave you to settle in, yes?” she claps her hands, two young men stepping in, “Yeonjun, Kai, help Daniela with her belongings. Bring them up to her room.”

“Yes, your majesty.”

“As you wish.”

Yoonchae grins as her parents leave, She whisper, “I’ll see you tomorrow!”

Daniela is left stunned and confused.

“Megan…”

“Your highness.”

She inhales, “Am I perhaps mad or did that all happen within a matter of seconds?”

“...You are not mad, my lady, never.”

“Your highness?” A woman in attendants uniform appears. “I am Yunjin. I am meant to be your new attendant. I shall show you the way to your quarters and should you ever need anything, it is me you shall call upon.”

“Yunjin. It is wonderful to meet you.”

She nods, extending a hand to point up the stairs, “This way, your highness.”

Daniela looks back one last time over the palace grounds. She sighs and begins to move, Megan following not too far behind her.

______

Upon arriving in her temporary room, she laid upon the bed. She stared at the ceiling. It was far too high, the lighting was different. Nothing like home.

At the door, stood Megan, her stance still and perfect. Awaiting for her next orders.

“Megan?”

“Yes, your highness?”

“Do you think… he will be kind?” She asks.

“Who? The king?”

“Well… yes.” She says, now sitting up to look at Megan.

Megan looks down, “I would not know.”

Daniela pouts, “your father must have met him on the field or during negotiations. Even if it was only once. Surely he must have told you something.”

Megan's eyes remain blank, but for a flicker of a second her eyes flash with a hint of something that Daniela cannot name. As if for a moment, something other than blind obedience displays upon her face. She slouches slightly, as though a weight has been dropped upon her. If Daniela did not know better, if she were mad, she might have thought the look of vehemence was…

Fear.

Despite it, she recovers quickly, her mask of stoic expression returns. Her stance of professionalism returning as quick as it left, she grips the hilt of her sword harder.

“I have not spoken to my father in many moons, not since the war.” she grimaces, “Your highness.”
Daniela does not push. “Right.”

“I apologize I cannot offer any information of use to you, my lady.” Megan said.

“It is more than alright. Do not apologize.”

The two sit in silence for minutes more. Silence which is all too loud to Daniela.

“Let’s go for a walk, shall we?”

_________

Daniela wanders throughout the castle. Growing up, she believed her palace was huge, only now does she see how small it was. She walks past the countless doors and windows, Staff pausing to bow as they pass through.

“Your majesty.” or “Your highness” they’d say before returning to their duties.

They were not as fun as the ones back home, no. In Cuba, her staff were playful, they’d actually smile or laugh as they told jokes while working together or simply passing. Here? They were cold and quiet, as though speaking would have them beheaded.

Considering who her husband was, that doesn’t sound too far off the mark

Behind her, Megan followed closely, trailing a safe and respectable 5 paces behind. Just as she had promised. She had hoped Megan's cold shoulder would warm now that they had been together for some time, however she did not seem to budge.

It was disturbing in some ways, The girl never smiled, laughed or showed any emotion that was readable on her face anyway. Despite that, she could tell that underneath the soldier look, that there was something kind.

So Daniela felt safe around Megan, she trusted her. Which almost made her feel bad for this.
She came to a halt, “Megan.”

“Your highness.” she said.

“I am afraid I have forgotten my bracelet, the one my mother gifted me before I left. You remember the one, yes?” Daniela said with a frown.

“Of course, your highness.”

“I hate to ask… but would you be a dear and retrieve it for me? I’ll wait here until you return.”

Megan nodded, “Right away, your majesty.” and she stepped away to enter the room.

Once the door shut, Daniela made a break for it. She ran until she found a door that led to the outside. She needed to escape, she needed to leave, to get out of this place. It was out of the question to stay, she would deal with her parents upon returning home.

All she knew was that she could not stay here, in Manila, not as long as she was engaged to him.

She enters the garden, whisking her way through and around the bushes and hedges. The garden is seemingly set up in a labyrinth. She groans in frustration she is growing tired, her dress now weighing heavier with each second she runs.

She comes to an eventual stop at a wall.

It is lined with branches, a tree growing out of it. It seems a little overgrown, which tells Daniela that it is not monitored.

‘This is my chance. It is now or never.’

She speeds to the wall and begins to climb. Her foot slipped on the roots of the tree. She tries once more, she lifts her dress to steady herself, she is almost halfway there. Until…

“Are you in need of assistance my lady?”

_______

Daniela almost falls off the wall, she was unaware of the person behind her or how long they had been there. She burned with embarrassment that some staff had just watched their future queen eat shit.

“Oh dear.” The woman said, “Are you alright?”

Daniela huffed, “I’m very much alright, thank you!”

Daniela, completely ignoring the woman, now was back in her attempt to escape over the wall, attempting to grab onto the stone above, but not being tall enough. She growled in frustration.

‘stupid wall! Why am I so short, these heels are for nothing!’ she cursed internally.

The raven haired girl stared, almost in awe. She had never seen such a peculiar predicament. She couldn’t help but chuckle. “Your majesty, forgive me for my insolence, But I’m sure it is against law to allow me to simply watch such a… what is it you are doing?”

“I’m trying to escape, can you not see that?” she shot her a glare, “Such stupid questions..” she muttered.

She raised a brow, “I’m afraid I do not know what you speak of? What is it that we are escaping?”she stepped closer, her hands behind her back.

Daniela dropped down to the ground to fully face the woman, annoyed and ready to argue. To Dani’s horror she was breathtakingly gorgeous. Her silky black hair ran down her back and her face so symmetrical you could cut it half and not tell the difference.

She looked and stood like a noble, a high ranking one at that. She could be… a princess. Oh but that couldn’t be possible, she would know if this was some nobility and despite her seemingly effortless beauty, the girl was simply dressed in peasant clothes, not even a workers uniform. All covered in dirt and filth.

‘Likely the gardener.’ she reasoned in her mind.

“Your majesty? Are you alright-”

Dani shook her head, “I am quite alright, although… you are staff yes? You work for the crown?” she asks.

The other woman nods, “Yes… I do.”

The latina lights up, “Wonderful! Perhaps you could be of service to me then, yes?”

“What is it that you require your grace?”

Dani points to the wall, “See this? I just need help getting over it, now I think if you hoist me up I will be able to climb over no problem. See, I’m too short and-”

The other woman laughs, it’s almost hysterical, Dani blushes, embarrassment returning to her cheeks, “What are you laughing at? Anyone ever tell you it’s impolite to talk to your superior that way-”

The laughter subsides, her grin still wide, “You’re right, it seems I have forgotten my place. Please accept my apologies.” she bows, almost a little too dramatically,

Daniela, nonetheless is indifferent to it, “Yes, yes, I shall forgive you if you aid me in getting over this damned wall.”

“What is it that upsets you so much?” she asks, “Are you not to be wed in the next week? Is it not a joyful occasion? Why are you insistent on abandoning the palace? You’ve only just arrived.” She questions, no malice, only genuine curiosity.

Daniela takes a moment to think of a response. How could anybody not know why she is trying to escape this horrid place. She is alone, she has no friends, or any company to keep. She has yet to even meet her soon to be husband and nobody will tell her anything about him.

So of course, the only reasonable explanation for any of this is that fiance must be some horrid beast. Perhaps he is ugly or deformed in some way and it picks everyone to speak of him. That Daniela could handle, she wasn’t so shallow as to only view one for their looks, what they cannot control.

No, what she feared the most was that he was a cold man. An unloving lover who would be cruel to her until her final days, only wanting her for his enjoyment and seeing her as only a producer of an heir. Yes, that was far worse and more ugly than any appearance.

It was of course expected that heir would arrive come the end of autumn, given it was only mid winter now. They were meant to be wed this week, only a few days away. Still, she had only ever heard stories about the man.

Tales of blood and death.

The kind where his enemies shook in fear due to his presence alone. How he overtook an entire nation on his own, how he slaughtered thousands with his bare hands. They said he was a monster because only a monster could do what he had done.

“Because the king… I do not wish to marry him” she said matter of factly.

“Oh I see… Why is that? You say you have not met him, how has he managed to capture your disdain so soon?” she asks as she tilts her head innocently.

“Because…!” she stutters, “Nobody will tell me anything about him. I know nothing- not even his appearance, how absurd is that? His own sister wouldn't share a word! That tells me something.”

She steps closer, less than a foot from the princess, “And what,” she looks down at her, “Praytell, is that?”

She’s a little flustered now, (that is to say she was not already)

‘so… close’

“That he, king Sophus, is a monster or perhaps even a troll and I cannot bear to be engaged to him any longer. That is how it must be, " Daniela said.

The filipina took a step back, as if she was considering walking away. She looked almost offended by the comment and tone of voice. Daniela did not question it though. She supposed that nobody in the kingdom had ever heard someone speak so lowly of their soon to be ruler. That must be quite distasteful, especially coming from someone of Daniela’s status .

“Perhaps you are right. Although, I have never met him myself so I cannot say.” She replies, tilting her head.

“Right. So you understand my predicament, yes? Will you help me?” Daniela asks rather frantically. It's a matter of time before she is found, “Here, if you hold me by my waist and hoist me up, I believe I shall go over quite easily, yes?”

The raven haired girl stares, she does not reply.

“Well? Make haste, come here and help me!”

A low chuckle comes from the other woman, “I have no absolute intention of helping you.”

“I am a lady in distress. You refuse to help a lady in distress?” Daniela asks, stunned.

“I refuse when that lady in distress is trying to go over a wall so that she does not have to marry me.” Daniela goes pale.

This… gorgeous woman was… the king? The very one she was supposed to marry? And oh god. She had called “him” a beast, to “his” face! If she did not kill her now, her parents very well would once they found out. Daniela stumbles back slightly, not out of fear- but shock.

Sophia steps forward, smiling softly as she takes Daniela’s hand and presses a light kiss to her knuckles, "Hello Daniela. I am Sophia. Sophus is what my enemies call me, and you are no enemy.”

Daniela straightens up, “Of course. Please accept my apologies.” She bows, “If I had known it was you-“

Sophia raises a brow, “You would have what? Not told me you were trying to escape?”

“Well.. yes-“ she stutters as Sophia giggles, “I mean! I do apologize, your majesty.”

“Sophia.” She corrects as she looks into the latina’s eyes, “just Sophia.” she nods, checking for understanding.

Daniela nods back, the look of terror still in her eyes. “I confess, I thought you were a …”

“Man?”

“Well… yes.”

Sophia nods, humming in response, “Yes, that is what many seem to think of me. Perhaps it is the troll or beastly energy I give that causes them to think that there is no way I could be a lady.” she remarks.

Daniela flushes with embarrassment, “My goodness, I am so terribly sorry, I did not mean to-”

The king laughs, “Do not worry! I am used to it. I understand you held no ill intent.”

“Of course not!”

The two stand face to face as Daniela fidgets nervously. Sophia begins to move forward only inches away from Daniela. She fears she might faint, either because the most beautiful girl she’s ever seen is so close or because the most dangerous soldier is having a most casual conversation with her.

Sophia leans in close, “The king situaton… it towers over us. Accident of birth on my part.” she sighs, “But I thought perhaps, as my wife, you could ignore it and I could be just,,, Sophia to you.” she looks around before smirking, “That was, of course, before I found out you do not want to be married to me.”

Daniela burns, “I did not say that!”

“Oh, you did.”

“I did not”

Sophia’s smirk grows wider, “You did.”

“It is not- hah,,, I do not know you.”

Sophia spreads her arms out in a dramatic gesture, “I do not know you either, only that you are terrible at climbing walls.”

Scandalized she gasps, “You try climbing a wall in all these garments!!” They both can’t help but blush and grin at one another.

Sophia stops, she takes a moment to study Daniela’s face. She hadn’t quite gotten a good look at it before. It is only now does she see just how beautiful she is. Sophia is almost positive she has never seen such a beautiful human, and she has traveled the world, so she supposes that says something.

It doesn't take long for Daniela to take notice of her fiance's staring. She raises a brow, “What?” Daniela asks.

“You are incomparable.” She looks away.

“Pardon?”

“No one told me you would be this beautiful, you might be too beautiful to marry me. People will talk!” she pauses, “Given I am a troll…”

“Your majesty-”

“Sophia.”

“Sophia…”

The filo turns back, “What do you want to know?”

“What?” Daniela asks.

“You say you do not know me, what do you want to know about me?”

“Well that is quite…uh… I do not…”Daniela stutters before shaking her head, “Everything.”

‘is this really allowed?’ she thinks.

Sophia chuckles and clears her throat, “Alright. Everything. Let’s see. I was born prematurely, everyone was sure I would not make it. I survived as you can see.” she gestures to herself. “I am an excellent fencer, I am an even better shot. My favorite food is singang, I refuse to eat bugs, they are horrible, really. I enjoy reading, art and even more so; good conversation. Most of all I enjoy singing.”

“Singing? You?” Daniela laughs.

Sophia nods, “yes, me. I am a rather good vocalist, although mine is nothing compared to my cousin. She is truly a nightingale. Perhaps I shall serenade you some day.”

“Perhaps.”

Sophia lets out a small gasp, “Oh! And here I have a scar from falling off my horse,” she points to her abdomen, “and here a scar from being clumsy with a butter knife,” She rolls her cuff up to reveal a small scar, no bigger than half an inch.

“And right now… I am very nervous about marrying a girl I am only meeting 24 hours before our wedding.” she laughs, “But I cannot show it and climb over a wall because I am the great king of the Philippines and Manila. And that, well, it would cause a scandal.”

Daniela giggles.

“But I promise you,” she takes the younger girl's hands in her own, “I am neither a beast nor a troll. Just Sophia.”

“Sophia… Perhaps we shall speak inside? The guard I arrived with must be worried sick-”

As if on cue, Megan rushes in, “Your majesty-“ she freezes upon seeing the second person. “You.”

Sophia laughs, loud and (almost obnoxiously) boisterous. Daniela was sure the whole castle could hear her, not that anybody would say anything anyway. “Is that how you speak to your king?”

Megan remains expressionless, “You are not my king. I serve his majesty, Prince Jonah and his court alone.”

Sophia whistles, “Quite the tongue on this one, no? I could have you beheaded for this.”

Megan reaches for her blade, “Behead me if you must, my job is to project the princess and I will behead you first if that's what it takes to fulfill my purpose.”

It is almost chilling how cold and emotionless her words spill out. The words are deadly and threatening but her tone is void of any life. Still, in her eyes, you can still see that flicker of anger, rage.

Megan was not a fan of mockery or foolishness. It is simply not how she was raised, her father, one of the greatest generals of the Cuban army, Sohey Sugihara. Legend has it, he took on an ambush of 100 all on his own and barely suffered a scratch. In fact, he was the only reason that Cuba had not been destroyed in the war with the Philippines.

Sophia had heard of his infamous daughter who was allegedly just as, if not a better fighter than him. Not only that, but she was the same age as the Prince of Cuba, she had actually trained him in sword fighting. It was why he was so good.

Through the training she had become his closest “friend”. Megan would blank stare and claim not to see him that way, that he was only her master, but he refused the title. Still insisting that they were best friends. She gave up fighting it, soon embracing the role of his friend, considering it an honor that the crown thought so highly of her.

Daniela is horrified by Megan's threat, “Megan! Sophia I am so sorry, she has a way of being blunt, I am discovering this now-”

“Worry not, I take no offense to any statements so long as my betrothed does not.” She looks at Daniela, “Do you?”

Daniela shakes her head, “No, Sophia. I am quite well.” she nervously grins.

Behind Megan skids a girl, out of breath and huffing. “Your majesty! I beg of you not to take off like this again, I am not-” She looks up, surprised to see Daniela.

The girl was smaller than Sophia, she looked a little younger too, but also exhausted. As if she had lived 300 lives already. Her bright red hair caused her to stand out. She remembered seeing her when she arrived. She must be Sophia’s attending.
The thought reminded her of her dear Sunoo.

‘How lonely he must be now. I hope he is alright.’

“Lady Avanzini? What are you doing here?” Marquise asks.

Sophia throws an arm around this girl, “Ah yes! We were only just getting to that!” she nods toward Daniela, “You see, Marquise, Daniela was deciding whether or not she wished to climb over that wall or marry me! I was just about to receive her answer.”

Daniela pales, “No! That is not at all what-”

Sophia laughs- she seems to do so a lot- “Please, do not be so modest, dear.”

Marquise steps forward, “Hah, I am sure Daniela is delighted to-”

“Oh no- she is still deciding!” Sophia cuts her off. “The choice is entirely yours.”

They all stand in silence for a beat before Sophia clears her throat, “Well, I ought to return before my guards begin to think I am kidnaped.” she looks at Daniela, “Tomorrow, when I stand at the altar, I do hope it will be you who walks down the aisle to me. Good day, Daniela.”

Sophia turns away for a final time as she walks down a path, presumably back to the castle. Marquise scrambles to follow.

Daniela is still stunned, today has been quite the twister. Not only has she arrived in the country of the most powerful military, but she has managed to have offended and even threatened (even if it was not technically her who made said threat, it was from her party so she deemed it is such) the king- her soon-to-be husband. Quite the day, indeed.

“Your highness-” Megan began.

“I would like to return to my quarters please.” Daniela cuts her off, not wanting to hear whatever nonsense that was to fall out of her servant's mouth.

Megan sighs, “As you wish, your highness.”

Chapter Text

Daniela awakes slowly in the morning. She does not move, only staring at the ceiling. She could barely sleep the night before.

All the anticipation and nerves prevented a seamless and pleasant slumber.

Still, she lies down facing the roof as if it would someone land her back in her bed at home.

Undo all her father had done.

The next hour was pure chaos. It is the day of the wedding and everybody but Daniela seems to be ready and prepared for it. Her doors slam open at 8am sharp by Yunjin.

“Good morning your majesty! Today is a very big day for all of the Philippines. Let’s get to it, yes?” She says with enthusiasm.

Daniela sits up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes as she does, “Huh? Yes, of course.”

Yunjin claps twice and the doors to her room burst open. Servants immediately come in and open up every window. Daneila flinches at the sudden light

“Apologies, your highness, but we are on a strict schedule today. The royal family wishes you to be wed by 4 o clock this afternoon, not to mention the preparations that are still yet to be done.” she said, not that Daniela was listening to any of it.

Seriously, was this how her life was to be, awoken at the crack of dawn without warning? She hadn’t even had her morning pastry yet. This simply had to be illegal.

“4? That's over 8 hours, how can we not have enough time? It doesn't take very long-”

Yunjin tsk’d, “Please. That is nowhere near enough time. We have to get you dressed, prepare the ballroom, ensure everything is set in chappell, not to mention we have to welcome all the guests- ugh! So much work!” she sighs.

Daniela is ushered out of her warm bed as the cold air hits her legs she winces. Still nobody pays her any mind, too focused on preparing her outfit. They bring her to the bath in the room connected to her own.

The water was run and hot, bubbles circling at the top. Before she gets a chance to even speak, they begin undressing her and helping her into the tub.

The water is warm and it sloshes as she slips in. One lady begins to clean her left arm with a sponge as another does the same on the right. Behind her, A third is already beginning to wash her hair, her big curls straighten as the water touches them.

Daniela allows herself to drown in the water and her thoughts as she's bathed.

‘Today is the day. I’m not so afraid anymore now that I have met her, but I am still anxious. I do not know why this stresses me so. I am the princess for crying out loud. I need to get a grip, it’s what father would want-

Father.

Can I even call him that anymore? Knowing he sold me away as a bargaining chip in politics. That he could have found any other solution, yet he did not hesitate to give me away the second it was proposed.

Perhaps this was his plan all along, to send me off. If not offered to Sophia, would he have had me sent away regardless? Did ever even love me? As a royal, a princess, as his daughter?

I suppose not, no. No king, man, father could ever claim to love someone they’re so willing to throw away like a used tool. That is the truth, my father never loved or cared for me. All because why? Because I was not born a prince. Because I was no heir, I was deemed vain and my birth pointless.

I hate that I was born who I am. I do. But I must remember that if it was not me, Naisha would be the one to pay for my fathers sins. I make this sacrifice not only for my people but my family. I cannot forget. I mustn't.’

Her thoughts are interrupted by the bucket of water dumped on her head as they rinse out her hair, she gasps in shock as the water streams down her face. She wipes her face clear and looks up.

“Apologies, your highness, I should've warned you.” A maid says, rather sincerely.

Daniela nods and mumbles something like “It’s fine.”

Soon enough she is being pulled out and dried up, she is given a robe then led back to the main bedchamber. In the center stands a manikin, wearing the most gorgeous dress she had ever seen in her life.

It was white and was seemingly made of silk and other fine fabrics. It was even more beautiful than any of the gowns she had worn in her entire life. It was strapless and had a veil that flowed down to the ground, trailing behind the figure.

“This is my dress?” Daniela asks in awe.

Yunjin nods, “Yes, my lady. It was made specially for you. There is not another dress in the world like it.”

“Truly?”

She nods, “Yes, of course. The wife of the king and future queen deserves only the best and most unique. So that she may stand out on her big day. It is not everyday that you are married to the ruler of one of the greatest and most powerful countries in the world.”

Daniela does speak, as the words repeat in her mind. Powerful and Great. They were right, this was one of the most influential and substantial kingdoms. It is quite the heavy burden to reign over such a vast land, and soon? That burden would be Daniela’s.

The Philippines were alone more than twice the size of Cuba, this isn’t even counting the other lands which are technically theirs as they have strong control and alliance within them. Countries such as India, Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand.

Their influences were heavy, thick musk in the air that you could not ignore.

‘It is why they defeated us in war, forced us to surrender our pride before we surrendered our way of life. It is a miracle we held out so long before being coerced into submission. Resulting in … this arrangement.’ she thinks to herself.

The silence must have dragged on far too land, leaving an awkward space.

Yunjin coughs, "Quite the momentous occasion is it not?”

Daniela shakes her head as she forces a smile, “yes, of course. Quite.”

The staff all look at her sympathetically before resuming their tasks and busying about the room. Yunjin makes orders to drab something comfortable to wear in the meantime since she doesn't have to dress until much later.

A simple blue gown is chosen for her, it is her favorite color. She is dressed and ready to proceed through with her day, it is quite the packed schedule, for the cuban, yes.

First, she must eat breakfast, of course. A queen cannot be malnourished after all. Then she must of course, meet with the house of lords, reviewing final expectations before the wedding. Then she has to think about the charity work she will do after, (not that she minds, she quite enjoys giving to her people- well her soon-to-be-people).

And after all of that, it will be time to get ready. Her dress and makeup, a final review of customs. Then she walks down the aisle where her fate will be cemented. Married to one of the exceptional monarchs in history.

“Are you ready to begin the day? It is 10am now, your majesty.” Yunjin asks.

The latina nods, “Yes, I am.”

With that, they leave the room only to be greeted by Megan. Dressed in her usual uniform and standing at attention. She drops to one knee, and bows her head.

“Your highness, Daniela. Good morning.” she says, quiet and firm.

Daniela smiles at the familiarity, “Good morning to you as well, Megan. Please stand, I’d hate to see your uniform dirty.” she laughs.

“Of course.”

Megan stands, dusting herself off, and the three stand in empty silence.

“ahem. Megan aren’t you forgetting something?” Daniela hints.

Megan tilts her head like a confused puppy.

‘What could I have forgotten?’ she wonders. ‘I got ready, I waited outside the door until her highness was ready to go. I ate breakfast as instructed. I even sent out my report to Sir Jonah. Surely I cannot have missed anything.’ she thinks.

Daniela gestures to Yunjin.

“I do not seem to understand.” Megan says, her monotone voice cool and smooth.

Daniela sighs and rubs in between her brows with her index and thumb. The sight causes Megan to frown, she does not like seeing the princess upset. It directly violated her very purpose of existence.

Plus, it would upset Jonah and she didn’t like seeing him upset either.

“You must say goodmorning to Yunjin as well.” Daniela sighs.

Megan paled, ‘Good morning? To that thing? Our enemy? We may be united with them now but they still killed hundreds of our own. It would be a disrespect to the dead. I will do no such thing!’ she proclaims in her head.

“Your highness, with all due respect, I cannot-”

“Is my will not yours?” She interrupts.

Megan hesitates, “...yes. Yes it is.”

“So?” the princess crosses her arms.

She looks at Yunjin, narrowing her eyes in suspicion, “Good morning to you, Ms Yunjin.” she says rather bitterly.

Yunjin giggles silently to herself before smiling wide, “Good morning to you as well, Megan.”

Megan rolls her eyes as they stroll down the hallway and to the dining hall. Yes, today would indeed be a long one.

———

Well. That certainly could have gone worse.

Breakfast was quick and simple, some easy meats and fruits. The chefs had asked if she wanted anything in particular, but Daniela being Daniela was afraid to cause trouble so she said whatever was fine.

Although Daniela can’t lie, she was craving some chilaquiles. It was a dish from another kingdom, Mexico. The prince there, Kim Samuel, had shown it to her on a visit when they were both young children.

Daniela had never tasted something so wonderful, she said. For weeks, she begged her chefs to make it for breakfast every morning. (Until Jonah grew sick of the eggs and tortillas. And only let her eat it once or twice a every other week).

So then the day proceeded to the next order of business, the meeting with the house of lords. The meeting itself went surprisingly well, despite her initial doubts. With the exception of Megan looking like she wanted to kill everyone in the room (and well- she did).

They were not like what she expected. Back home, their council was made of old men and cocky generals who believed they knew better than everyone else. Cuba was still very traditional when it came to the roles of women, so a woman had never been on their council. It was believed the conversations were “far too advanced for such a small and delicate mind”.

So it was quite shocking to see not only Sophia’s step-mother, the current queen, but Yoonchae, her half sister and crown princess as well as a few other noble women. The only men being Some duke and Marquise.

The talk was quick and succinct, they ensured her understanding of the role she would play now and what life was to be like. Then of course, they signed final approval of the marriage. None of them looked angry or even salty as she had expected them to be.

Her people, her father, had ordered the killings of hundreds of their own. Any sane person would have been enraged to now have a stable bond with them. Yet they all looked so kind and forgiving.

It nearly brought her to tears, but she didn’t have time for crying or tears, no. She needed to focus, remain graceful, and not allow them to think she was weak for a moment. Nothing that could let them think even for a second that she was incapable of this.

Nothing that could give them good cause to throw her away, just as her father had. Because if that happened- there would be no one to save her then. She would be stuck, her life in ruins and nothing to stop any of it.

No Jonah, no Megan, no Sunoo. Nobody. Only herself.

She couldn’t stand the thought of being alone. Not here. Not now.

And with that, the clock rang out. It was 1pm. The wedding was expected to begin at 4pm. Only 3 hours to get ready. So much time and yet never enough of it.

“Your highness, shall we get you dressed?” Yunjin asked.

Daniela nodded, “Yes.” a small smile forming on her lips, “Let us go.”

Megan trailed behind the two, a perfect 5 feet behind, as always.

_____

“Well what do we think?” Yunjin asks as she adjusts the veil on her head.

Daniela looks at herself in the mirror, turning from side to side, looking from different angles. She did look beautiful, just as a princess-soon-to-be-queen should. Still, what she felt inside was far from anything pretty.

“Well… it truly is as beautiful as it seems.” she says.

Yunjin gives a nod of approval

She would have thought that meeting her betrothed would have eased her worries, but it did nothing to quell the storm in her gut. Still, she felt the same fear and anxieties as she did when she arrived just yesterday morning.

Just for a moment she wondered what would become of her if she had run. What would they do? They were kind now, would they be kind then? Do they understand the fear she feels? Is that why they’re being so kind- because they know she’s suffering inside?

No, she doubts that, severely. Whatever the cause may be, she is surely doomed. She needs to run, no, she wants to run. But she cannot, why, it would bring dishonor to all she knows and loves.

Oh how she wishes she could feel Jonah's loving embrace, Naisha’s wise words, Sunoo's playful quips. Unfortunately none of that was here, not even close. More than 9,000 miles of land and sea stood between her and her home.

Besides that, she was a royal, the new queen. It’s not like she could escape off Luzon, the island, let alone flee Manila before someone who worked for the crown caught her and dragged her back.

Trapped was certainly one way to put it.

But for every overthought that had burrowed its way into her head and heart, an image of Sophia’s smile and lips pushed back.

‘I’m sorry, her.. what.’

Daniela must have lost it. She barely knew this woman and she was already thinking about that. She must have really lost it.

‘God I need a drink.’ she thinks to herself.

Megan steps forward, “You look beautiful, as always, your highness. However it is near quarter past three. It’s high time we begin heading over to the kirk.”

Yunjin nods, “Yes, she is right we should-” She stops upon seeing Daniela’s face.

She looks sad and even nervous. It was to be expected, given the circumstance. As her main attendant, she knew it was her job to ensure the permanent comfort and safety of the queen. No matter the circumstances.

It would not pain anyone to allow her a few moments to herself, right?

“Uh. Megan!’ Yunjin shouts abruptly, “You are meaning to wear something else, yes?”

Megan recoils, a scowl of offense forming on her face. Just what was wrong with what she was wearing? It was the crown guard uniform of Cuba, the one she wore with shame honor.

“Yes. Is there an issue with my apparel?”

Yunjin playfully laughs, “Well, I mean- you cannot expect to show up to the royal wedding in the The Philippines in the uniform of a Cuban soldier. It will set off panic, people will talk! And besides… look at those pants.”

Megan's jaw drops in offense as her voice cracks, “What’s wrong with my pants?”

“One might compare them to a half consumed madhouse…” she mutters, “But regardless of that, we must get you dressed properly, you do not want your poor choice of clothing to reflect ill on the queen now do you?”

Like a dog hearing her trigger word, Megan folded. Yunjin was right, she couldn’t bear to embarrass Daniela today of all days! She needed to change- now.

“Worry not, I can help you,” Yunjin steps to Megan, guiding her away and out the door, “My lady, will you be alright by yourself?”

“Oh uh-”

Yunjin winks, and mouth a quiet, ‘I’ve got this.’

Daniela smiles, grateful for Yunjin's efforts to bring her comfort.
_____

Megan waits in the foyer of the church. There are people bustling about and she is quite annoyed. Yunjin had redressed her and refused to let her go get the princess herself. So here she is, waiting for her.

The doors open and Megan prepares to greet the princess, but is only met by something unsightly. A sweating and very distressed Yunjin.

‘Disgusting’ Megan thinks to herself, ‘Just what has she done now?’

Yunjin maneuvered around the various people busying about in the room, as she stood side by side with Megan. Still breathing heavy, she says,

“We have an issue.”

Megan side eyes her, “What have you done now?”

Yunjin flinches, “I have… seemed to misplace the princess.” she whispers.

Megan turns to face her, “What?!” she whisper-shouts, “How could you be so incompetent. You have one job- One job!-”

“I know! Just-” she sighs, “Please- go find her, I need to handle things here and stall, please”

Yunjin looks down at Megan with those pleading eyes and frowns. The sight is honestly a little disturbing to Megan. She had never seen anybody look at her with such intensity. Still- she found the gaze a little familiar, as though someone else had looked at her like that before-

“Please Déla?” A small, but bigger than Megan girl with pink hair begs.

“Yeah!” Megan shouts “Let’s go!”

Déla, who also sported pink locks, looked around, unsure if it was the smart choice. But how could she say no to those eyes?

“Okay,” she says, “But we cannot let Ba find out alright? You two know I’m supposed to be training-”

“Yeah yeah-” a small megan cuts in as she reaches to intertwine their hands, “To be the big bad crown guard. I don’t get why that’s so important.”

“Mhm!” the middle girl hums as she reaches for Adéla’s other hand.

The oldest girl just laughs, “Trust me, you’ll understand the importance of this all someday. Plus I’m working so hard so that you two never have to. It’s my job as your big sis to take care of you both.” She assures, pinching one of each of their cheeks to which they both whine.

The other girl looks up, “Forever? Promise?”

Déla smiles,”I promise.”

Megan stumbles back half a foot, the memory resurfacing and going back under just as fast.

‘What the hell… Who the hell was that? Who’s Déla? And the other girl-’

“Megan- You okay…?” Yunjin asks, “Can you please find Daniela?”

Megan, against her better judgement, huffed and stormed off to find Daniela. Yunjin shouts her thanks after her. God this girl would be the death of her. Literally if she doesn't find her in the next 10 minutes.

Megan moves quickly and makes it to Daniela’s bedchamber. She mentally reminds herself to ring Yunjin around the neck the next time they’re alone. Because truly, this is above her paygrade. Not that she was being paid in anything other than food, water, a roof and honor.

She pauses, “Your highness?” she waits for a response, silence, “Are you in there?

Megan knocks on the door, twice. No answer.

“Your highness, the staff they are looking for you.”

No answer. Normally, she’d walk away and come back at a later time. Perhaps she’d even send for a servant to complete the task. It’s not like she would ever be put in the position to do this normally. But she didn’t really trust anyone else alone with Daniela.

Megan was not one for overthinking, if anything she was more of an underthinker. She didn’t really think more or less of situations. She took them at face value and never analyzed, why would she?

She was brilliant when it came to reading her opponents, back home, many would argue she was better than her father. She was quick and steady, if she had a destination for her blade, it would reach it, no matter what.

The Cantonese girl never struggled with making a decision. Back home, she would've just walked away, left the princess alone. But this wasn’t home, no. This was the very soil her father and thousands of her people had shed blood on.

She could not afford comfort or stability. No, she had to analyze everything. One miscalculation, one mistake could cost Daniela her life. So when Daniela does not answer, she must force the issue.

“Daniela, I’m coming in.”

She opens the door to an unexpected sight. No danger or harm towards the princess, no. Only her, pacing back and forth in her dress. She is muttering and mumbling to herself, a sight Megan is not familiar with.

“Your majesty, are you alright?”

Daniela does not answer, she doesn’t even acknowledge Megan. Which was odd, she was always very polite and never the type to ignore anyone. So what in the world was going on with her? She was to be married in several minutes yet she is here conversing with herself.

Not that Megan has any right to complain, she supposes she, too, would be quite unwell if she was engaged to a monster. But she does not say that or anything of the sort, no.

Megan closes the door from behind her. The click of the door causes Daniela to look up and notice the guard. Her lips part in awe as she looks at her.

She is no longer donning her usual soldiers uniform but her ceremonial outfit, the one soldiers wear when they are attending important events such as a coronation.

It is black and gold, the colors work well with her skin. It’s a very flattering outfit. Daniela doubts she had ever seen Megan look informal before, but still, it felt like another level of professionalism.

“Megan. You look dashing.”

She bows, “Thank you, it is an honor to receive such high praise from you, your majesty.”

Daniela hums in response before continuing to mutter anxiously to herself.

Megan clears her throat, “They are waiting for you, it is time to walk-”

Daniela huffs, “I do not understand, I have met him- her and yet I am still just as terrified as I was when we had arrived.”

She twists her fingers around one another in an attempt to ground herself, yet she cannot help the spiral that she was already slipping down. She taps her foot in her heels, they are uncomfortable, tight, is she expected to dance in these? God, she hopes not.

Will the people of the Philippines accept her? Will they want someone who was not among their people or nobility to be their queen? She had heard all about the rioting in Europe. Rumor had it that there was talk of beheading their monarchs. A revolution.

‘oh god, will- will that happen to me?’

Her inhales quicken as she begins to panic she sits down, her hand clinging to her chest, Megan rushes to catch her, “Your majesty! Daniela! Sit down, Here, wait, I shall fetch-”

“No!”

“No?”

Daniela slows her breathing, “No- Megan, I will behead you myself if you leave me here.”

Megan is a little stunned by Daniela’s words, she had never heard her speak this way before, it was a little unnerving. Still, reminding herself of her place she halted, returning to the Latina’s side. The Cantonese girl bowed her head in apologies.

“I… I cannot do this Megan. I’m scared. I can’t, I-” she groans in frustration, hiding her face beneath her hands.

Megan sighs as she reaches for her pocket, pulling out an envelope, a letter. “His majesty, Prince Jonah, gave this to me before we departed. It is for you.”

Daniela reaches for the letter and holds it in her hands. It has his wax crest on it, blood red. “Megan. The opener,”

Megan nods, passing over the blade as Daniela cuts it open and opens the paper. She reads it.

Daniela,

I am terribly sorry that I cannot be with you on this day, that you must be alone in your endeavors. I asked Megan to hold onto this until the day of the wedding, in case you were feeling anxious and in need of some comfort.

I have done all I can for you, Dani. I have pleaded with parliament, with the house of lords, with our father, but nobody will listen. As the crown prince of our great Nation, I was born with the ability to do as I please, to have whatever I want whenever I want.

Yet today, I stand here, useless and helpless to stop this arrangement. You will be forced to marry a man you do not love, because I am not strong enough to defend you, because I am weak and cannot protect you as I had promised all those years ago.

Regardless, Daniela, I know you are strong. You have impeccable strength and I know you will do all in your power to make light of this terrifying situation. You are so independent and hell bent on protecting your people and country, traits of a perfect princess. So much so that I fear that even if I had found a way to avoid the marriage, you might have done it anyway to guarantee the safety of our people. You are kind and generous in that way, you always have been.

It reminds me of a time when you were younger.

“Really? I am to be wed and he thinks it’s storytime?” she mutters.

“I told him not to reminisce…” Megan mumbles, “Keep reading, your highness.”

Despite wanting to rip the paper and scream and cry, she obeys and keeps reading.

…There was a time when you were so small, so fragile, you could not yet walk on your own. You needed assistance at every turn and I was always there to help.

Except for one incident. When you were only five, you and I were running through the palace garden, I should have been studying, yes, but I snuck away from sir Grant to play with you.

You wanted me to catch you, running around and hiding behind every hedge. Of course, I was faster than you, given I have longer limbs and I was older. Still, I let you pretend I could not keep up.

We had the grandest time, until you had lost your footing and fell, scraping your knee. I panicked, and rushed to your side, ready to carry you in, but you did not allow me. You sat up promptly, dusting off your dress and do you know what you said to me?

“I do not remember this. Why- How is any of this relevant, to me-”

“Your highness-”

Daniela waved her off, “Yes, yes, I know. Keep reading.” she grumbled.

You said, “I’m the princess and a princess doesn’t cry.” even though you clearly were in pain and wanted to. You held your own and carried on because that is the example you wanted to set for yourself.

Life will never be the same from here on out. It was hard and challenging at times, you may even doubt if this was the right choice for you. But never forget who you are, where you came from and who you raised yourself to be.

You are strong Daniela, stronger than any knight, than father, stronger than me. You will rule with grace and intelligence, not because that is what is asked of you, but because that is who you, Daniela Andrea Llorente Avanzini of Cuba, are.

I will do my best to visit you soon. Until then, hold on tight and keep Naisha and I in your hearts on this day. We are forever with you in spirit.

All my love,
Jonah

P.S.

Note that if Sophus lays a hand on you, I will personally come to behead him.

A single tear fell from Daniela’s face, “Jonah…” she whispered.

Megan stared ahead, unsure of what to do at the sight of the crying bride. She was never the best at comforting, it was not in her nature. Not the way she was raised. Still, this was her masters- her friends sister.

Queen to be or not, Megan had made a promise, an order, to take care of her. If there was one thing about Megan that should never be doubted, it was her inability to disobey orders. So the guard came close and pulled a handkerchief from her pocket, handing it to the royal.

“I am sorry, his majesty Jonah cannot be here today. But as his letter says, you are strong, princess.” she takes a deep breath, “Incredibly so. You can handle this marriage, this arrangement.” Megan says.

The words sound foreign, almost funny coming from her monotone voice. Still, Daniela can see she’s trying despite the discomfort Megan is clearly experiencing from this unfamiliar situation. So she laughs, taking the handkerchief and gently wiping her tears so as to not ruin her makeup.

“Thank you, Megan.” she mumbles.

“Are you ready?”

“Not like I have a choice, right?” she smiles bitterly as she hands back the tissue, to which Megan pockets once more.

Megan nods in understanding, as she opens the doors, guiding the princess through, only to stumble into a stressed Yunjin.

“Your majesty! We have been looking for you! The ceremony, it’s about the start-”

Megan pulls a dagger out, “The ceremony will start whenever her highness sees fit.”

Yunjin gaps and scrambles backwards, “Of- of course! But it is best we make haste. The king might think you’ve abandoned her at the altar.”

Daniela motions for Megan to do away with the blade and she obliges. She turns to Yunjin and nods, “Shall we go?”

Yunjin nods, “Of course.”

They quickly make their way to the onsite chapel where the wedding is occurring. Daniela is greeted quickly by bows and murmurs of acknowledgement as she enters the room. She straightened out her white dress, dusting off any dirt that may have caught on it.

She can hear the hundreds of people inside speaking in low voices. All never having seen their future queen before. They had never married outside of the country so this wedding was a great deal to most.

“Nervous?”

Daniela nods, “Are you- are we sure that this is the right decision. The people, what do they think? Will they not be against the union of the very people who ended their lives?” she whispers.

“You need not worry, Your Majesty.” Yunjin whispers, “The people are kind, they will love you.” she pauses. “Yes, death and needless bloodshed was the result of the war. But it is long over, nothing more but a thing of the past. The people will heal, this marriage is the beginning of that healing. Just as the king has come to love you, the people will as well. For the king's will is their will. ”

Yunjin gives a soft smile, a genuine one. It reminds Daniela of Sunoo and his childish grin. For a moment she allows herself to believe it was him. She likes to think he is home in Cuba, cheering her on just as Jonah and Naisha are.

That’s right. This isn’t just about her or her family. It’s her people. Cuba lost thousands of soldiers in the war, both countries were equally at fault. Yunjin was correct, it was time for healing. Which the people desperately needed.

Daniela nods, “right,” she takes a deep breath, “Let’s do this.”

“Oh!” Yunjin says, “The flowers!”

Someone hands Daniela her bouquet. It was an assorted bunch of white florals. The petals sat like layered white blades, with yellow in the center. They were beautiful, she had never seen anything like them. She wondered why these in particular were chosen for her.

Yunjin grins, “The flowers, do you like them? The king herself requested them. She was insistent on these specific ones.”

Daniela hums, “Is that so? What are they called? I don’t think these grow where I am from. Yes, they are truly beautiful.”

“Sampaguita.” she says, “They are our country's national flower, they only grow here. It is what makes them so beautiful. They are unique to the Philippines and the Philippines alone.”

Daniela cannot help but smile sheepishly. Had Sophia truly found her deserving of such a precious symbol in her home?

“Do they have meaning? The flowers?” the latina asked.

The attendant nodded, “yes. They symbolize love, fidelity, and devotion. It is said that when they are given to you, the person is offering you a part of their heart, their soul.” she adjusts the placement of one of the flowers, “So it is very common for lovers to exchange them. Often it is a courting ritual, it is not too uncommon for the second bouquet to be exchanged much later. Once the second person is sure.”

Daniela almost wants to cry, did Sophia mean all of this? Could such a small gesture mean so much to someone here? Back home, sure, they also had a national flower, the White Mariposa. But it held no significance to daily life.

The flower really only existed as a reminder of the battle for independence. The women would hide messages for soldiers inside the petals, it was a symbol of the strength and resilience of the people before her.

But it never meant anything more than that- it was no big celebration or tradition. It was a history lesson at most, a children's tale. The kind of story a nostalgic grandmother would tell her grandchildren right before bed.

To know Sophia had put such thought into such a small thing, it was truly touching. No one had ever done such a thing for her, not even Jonah.

‘Warlord just couldn't be a name for her betrothed. Could someone so kind and thoughtful commit such atrocities in the name of war?’ she wondered to herself.

“That… that’s so beautiful. Do they truly hold such significance in your culture?” she asked.

Yunjin nodded, “Yes, my lady. The king must be truly smitten to offer them to you. In truth, your original bouquet was an assortment of roses. However, Sophia insisted that you deserved flowers with bigger meaning. So that you may know just how special you are.”

The princess giggled, “Is that so?”

“Yes, your majesty. I wouldn’t dare make it up.” she says.

The two stand in comfortable silence as they await the cue. She takes a moment to observe the room around her, for it would be the last time she was a free woman. There were only a few select people in the room with her.

To her left, Yunjin, standing sure and with joy, her foot thumping anxiously. To her right, Megan, who stood proud and tall, her grip kept firm on her sword as she analyzed the room, as though an attacker could be in the mist already.

There were a couple of servants, some in a corner giggling and whispering in excitement. One of them was a boy who reminded her of Sunoo. He was the one who handed her the bouquet. He looked to be an inch or two shorter than him, he had dimples that showed when he smiled, nothing like Sunoo’s whisper dimples. And his face was more triangular than Sunoo’s but he held the same demeanor

“Excuse me” Daniela said, addressing the boy.

He immediately stopped what he was doing as he faced her, bowing before saying, “Your majesty, how may I help you?”

Daniela grinned, “Your name, what is it?”

“Oh my name is irrelevant, do not trouble yourself with-”

“I did not ask what was relevant, I asked your name.” she says, “and If I remember correctly, I am to be your queen which means you do as I say, am I correct?”

He chuckles nervously, “Y-yes, of course.” he dips his head, “I am Jungwon.”

“You brought me my flowers, they are lovely, where did you get them?” she asks.

As if he was given the winning lottery numbers, his face lights up, “Oh! I am the head of the garden! Everything you see out there on the property, that is all me! I personally grow and tend every single plant and flower here.” he pauses, “Including those lovely Sampaguita’s you have there. I hand picked them myself,”

“Well, thank you, they are lovely. I admire your passion for your craft.” she says.

He chuckles, “No, it is the king all the thanks are owed to. It is her who gave me the role and even allowed me my own space in her personal greenhouse. Everything I have, it is thanks to her.”

As if Daniela could not fall further in love with the woman. If she was not already head over heels, god, was she now. Perfection had taken a human form. The form of Sophia Elizabeth Guevara Laforteza, and Daniela was determined to spend the rest of her life with her.

Strings of violins, violas and cellos come to a low stop. Everyone ceased the conversations, all standing still, seemingly holding their breaths as if a bomb might drop if they make a noise. This was it, the moment that would seal the union between Cuba and the Philippines.

Two of the servants stand at the doors, one ready to open each door.

And of course, it is only now that Daniela realizes nobody is here to walk her down the aisle. She looks around and her eyes land on Megan.

“Megan, walk me.” She says hastily, it’s not an ask, it’s a demand.

Megan shocked, argues, “It is not proper for me-”

“Megan. You are the closest thing I have to a family here. Yes, traditionally my father or brother would have walked me, but they are not here are they? Please. Give me some feeling of familiarity before I am wed. Let me be given away by a familiar face, not a stranger or alone.” Daniela pleads.

Megan cannot refuse.

“Alright.” She links her arm through Daniela’s as the doors open. The guests all stand and bow at her entrance. The music, a slow ballad on the piano, plays as she walks. Behind her, Jungwon follows, discarding flower petals as he trails several feet back.

There at the altar she can see her now, Sophia.

Her white suit with a cape that drapes down the steps of the altar. Her chest adorned with medals, and badges, likely from her victories in war. Her face lights up upon seeing Daniela, she can’t help but grin right back.

She looks to Sophia’s side of the room and sees her family front and center, Yoonchae and her parents all wearing proud smiles. She can see the hundreds of nobles who all stare, desperate to get a look at their queen.

Daniela lets them stare because right now, there's only one person's gaze she’s concerned with. Sophia.

Megan releases her as she meets Sophia. But not before pressing a kiss to her knuckles and a small nod. Now in front of Sophia, they both stare into each other's eyes lovingly.

“You look beautiful,” Sophia whispers.

Daniela giggles, “So do you.”

Sophia could see through it, the nervousness so she bit back her grin, “You know… I was afraid you had decided I was too beastly and abandoned me at the altar.”

Daniela rolls her eyes, “No, you? Never.”

Sophia laughs.

Perhaps she was not perfect, but she was Daniela’s. Just as Daniela would soon be hers.

_____

The pastor began with his lengthy speech of ceremony, one that Daniela and Sophia could not be bothered to listen to. They couldn’t look away from each other, excitement and care filled their eyes.

“And now, your majesty, repeat after me.” he begins, “With this hand, I will lift your sorrows.”

Sophia takes Daniela’s hands in her own, “With this hand, I will lift your sorrows.”

“Your cup shall never be empty for I will be your wine.”

“Your cup shall never be empty, for I shall be your wine.” she grins.

The priest hands Sophia a lighter, and gestures to the candles on the altar, “with this candle I will light your way in the dark.”

“With this candle,” Sophia sparks a flame and lights it, “I will light your way in the dark.”

“And with this ring,” Marquise comes forward with a pillow, two golden bands resting upon it. “I ask you to be mine.”

Sophia drops Daniela’s right hand and brings up her left, pressing a kiss to it, “and with this ring…” she slips the ring on, “I ask you to be mine.”

Daniela blushes as she giggles, Sophia laughing in turn.

“And now you, Daniela.”

The smaller girl repeats the same phrases, lights her candle and slides Sophia's ring on. Anyone in the room could see the blazing tension between the two. Yoonchae, who sat front and center, smiled wide.

She had never seen such joy on Sophia’s face, a perfect match indeed. Yoonchae couldn’t help but grin and wonder if she would ever find love like this.

“Do you, Sophia Elizabeth Guevara Laforteza, take Daniela Andrea Llorente Avanzini to be your lawfully wedded wife, to rule by your side in sickness and in health for as long as you shall live?” he asks.

Sophia looks to him then to Daniela, “I do.”

“And do you, Daniela Andrea Llorente Avanzini, take Sophia Elizabeth Guevara Laforteza as your lawfully wedded wife, to rule by your side in sickness and in health for as long as the two of you shall live?” he asks her.

“I do.”

He clears his throat, “If any one has any objections as to why these two shall not be unified, speak now or forever hold your peace.”

The chapel is silent as everyone holds their breathes, nothing.

He grins, “Then I pronounce you wife and wife.”

Daniela’s heart races as Sophia places her hands on her waist and pulls her close and leans in. Daniela tilts her head and within seconds their lips have met and oh is it wonderful. Sparks go flying as the guests cheer and clap.

For those few seconds, Daniela feels lighter than air, Sophia’s lips are so soft, she can taste the lipgloss on them, and god did it taste heavenly.

Sophia pulls away, grinning like a child, “Hello, wife.”

Daniela blushes, “Hello.”

_____

The Laforteza’s truly had spared no expense on the post wedding ceremony. It was one of the most lavish parties Daniela had ever attended, well, she supposed she hosted coinciding it was for her. So there’s that.

Trumpets blared, signaling the dancers to halt, “Attention! Their Majesties, King Sophia Elizabeth Guevara Laforteza The First, and Daniela Andrea Llorente Avanzini.

She entered the ballroom as the stop of the staircase, Sophia’s hand in hers as the music hand to a halt, the entirety of the room turning to bow in their direction just as they had before.

They stop at the top of the staircase as Sophia takes a glass of wine from Marquise, “My people! Daniela and I would like to thank you for accompanying us on this momentous occasion. The war between our countries and causes our divide is no more!”

Cheers, hollers and applause bounce off each wall.

“Now that we are united, we one, we are no longer only Cuba and Philippines, no, we are one strong nation across the seas.” She raises her glass, “To all those who came before us and who will come after!”

They collectively raise their glasses as they toast.

“As they say in my wife’s home country, Salud!” Sophia grins wide.

“Salud!”

Glasses across the room clink as they cheer and drink.

“Now, enough of the chat! Enjoy the evening!” she shouts as Marquise signals for the orchestra to start up again.

The room returns to its lively self as the chatter and music fills the room.

Sophia turns to look at Daniela, “Come, darling. Let’s mingle.”

They walk down the steps as they make their way in the crowd. They wander about as they greet and make conversation with their guests. Now this, Daniela is accustomed to.

Growing up as a princess she was required to take dozens of classes on etiquette and proper speech. She of course attended hundreds of gala’s and events which made her quite efficient in the field.

It was one of the few things she had enjoyed as a royal. Conversing with others almost made her feel normal, like she was not carrying the weight of her country upon her shoulders. Although, now it was the weight of two, so she supposes that is more stressing.

But she is not alone in her endeavor, no. She has Sophia, her partner, her other half. She could not ask for another.

In the midst of conversations with unfamiliar nobles, a dark skinned woman in a peridot dress approaches.

“Soph, it is wonderful to see you,” she greets, “You as well, Daniela.”

“Daniela, darling! This is my dear cousin, Lara, Princess of India. Our fathers are brothers.” Sophia says enthusiastically.

“Your highness. It is lovely to finally meet you.”

Daniela smiles, “You as well.”

Sophia clears her throat, “Lara will be one of your ladies starting now. I will step off, to mingle and such, but you two talk, get to know each other.”

Sophia steps away leaving the two of them alone, Lara’s smile falters as she takes both of Daniela’s hand, “Your majesty-”

“Please, call me Daniela. We are family now, are we not? You need not bother with the formalities and titles when it is only us.” She smiles in that cheeky way Sophia did the day earlier when she had told her the same thing

“Of course,” Lara laughed, “I only meant to ask how you are fairing?”

“I am doing quite well, thank you for asking.” she says.

“And… The king. How does she fair?” Lara asks, hesitantly.

She tilts her head in interest, “She is quite well as from what I’ve seen. I am sure I will grow to adore her and her championship as my partner and co-ruler.”

A pregnant pause grows between the two, Lara looked nervous as though she was hiding something. Perhaps she was and if that was so, well, Daniela couldn’t help but be curious.

“Lara, have you something you wish to tell me? You need not be so nervous with me, I find I am quite understanding of all matters.”

“Well… I…”

“Go on then.”

“Daniela. I have grown up beside my cousin, the king. One would argue that I know her well, better than anyone else in the palace.” she pauses, “So I feel it is my obligation to let you know should the need arise or perhaps you feel unsafe, you may call on me for anything at any time.”

The cuban raises a brow, “What are you saying? I do not understand what you mean. If the king is with me, why would I ever feel unsafe? Even if she were not, my personal guard-” she gestures to the stoic cantonese girl several feet behind her, " -is always at my side. I worry not for my safety here.”

Lara grimaces, “Yes, I understand, I fear the king might be the issue. She has her moments… fits of well, anger. I have seen them first hand and I would hate for you to be caught in the crossfire-”

“Lara!” Yoonchae shouts, smiling wide.

Lara turns to her other cousin, a smile forming on her face, “Chae! How lovely it is to see you! I feel as though it has been years!”

Yoonchae rolls her eyes, “It has. Your parents have been so fixated on finding you a betrothed that you have not had time for conversation in well over a year!” she laughs, “How is that going?”

Lara’s eyes widen as she laughs nervously, “Ah well, it is … going! The bachelors are very… interesting this season.”

Yoonchae sighs, “They are, aren’t they- Say, Daniela, your… guard, Megan, is she perhaps wed?”

Daniela ponders, “No, I suppose not. She spent most, if not all of her time training or aiding my brother in his hijinx. I cannot imagine she had time for romantic pursuits nor do I think she even wishes to be in a relationship. She is very serious about her role as crown guard.”

Yoonchae nods, “I shall go say hi, it seems proper I become familiar with her as I will be around her often, no?”

Daniela smiles, “I suppose so, yes.”

Yoonchae grins as she bows to Daniela before turning around and making her way to Megan who is standing several feet away, staring in Daniela’s direction.

“Back to the previous topic of conversation, what were you saying, Lara?” Daniela asks.

The Indian only frowns, she looks to the other side of the room. Daniela followed her gaze, which landed on Sophia, who was currently making conversation with the other nobles in attendance. She was laughing at something one of the lords had said, before looking across the room.

They make eye contact and Sophia smiles wider, a small nod of acknowledgement before excusing herself.

“It is.. Never mind, you highness. I spoke out of turn, please accept my sincerest apologies.” Lara rushes out just as Sophia arrives.

“I am terribly sorry I took so long, my dear. Duke Bang is quite the chatter box. He was hellbent on sharing his most recent tale of his travels.” she laughs, “I trust the two of you are well acquainted now?”

Lara smiles, “Yes, of course. You are quite blessed to have such a wife.”

Sophia grabs Daniela's hand, “I am, aren’t I.”

Daniela can’t help but blush and giggle in response. Lara must not know what she speaks of. How could such a woman be prone to anger? Someone so charming and loving couldn’t be brought to violence.

Right?

The princess clears her throat, “Well I must be off, I have some personal events to attend to but it was truly lovely to see you two and having the privilege of standing within your presence.” she bows. “I wish you the happiest of marriages."

“Thank you, Lara, your kindness is appreciated.” says Daniela.

“Remember, if you are ever in need of help, I am always here.” she says, a hint of something Daniela cannot quite place in her eyes.

Sophia’s jaw tightens, “That’s enough Lara.”

“Right.” Lara glares for a moment before nodding. “Your highnesses.” she bows in both of their directions.

Lara takes a final glance before turning away, hurriedly leaving the room. The crowd part as she makes her way through, various servants and other nobles bowing before her. The doors of the ballroom open and close behind her.

Daniela stares after her, unsatisfied and curious as to know the reason behind the tension between the king and princess. Unusual to see royal family members at crosshairs, but with such venom? And in front of guests and others, no less.

‘What the hell was that about?’ Daniela thought to herself.

The music comes to a slow, loving beat. Couples around the room pair up and they sway, building up to a quicker pace. Just several feet away, Yoonchae tugs a confused Megan to the dance floor as they waltz. Daniela giggles at the sight.

Megan says something and Yoonchae laughs, a little too hard. Daniela struggles to believe it was anything too humorous as Megan would have less trouble picking up a grown horse with one hand. Still, Yoonchae looks undeniably smitten with the guard.

Who could blame her? Singaporeans are hot as hell, anybody with a brain knows that.

“If I did not know any better… I’d have thought my sister fancies your guard there…” Sophia chuckles.

“Mmh. Good luck to her with that. I fear Megan has a heart of stone, or at the very least, one that doesn’t even know it exists. She’s far too oblivious.” Daniela says, with a grin as Megan executes a flawless lift and spins with Yoonchae who is giggling uncontrollably.

“Well she is quite the fine dancer.” Sophia adds, “Perhaps I shall show you I am not so bad either?”

Sophia extends her hand out for Daniela to grasp and she does. The two walk hand in hand to the center of the room. The crowd stops as they part for the monarchs and bow. They face each other and bow.

Sophia takes her hands and begins to waltz. “See? Not so bad.”

“Hm.. I suppose I have seen worse.” Daniela jokes.

The filipina gasps, “You suppose? Are you not content with my dance abilities?”

Daniela laughs, “Well, I was taught ballroom dancing since I was able to walk. I find myself to be quite efficient in the field.”

They take a step back, Sophias spins Daniela out, brings her back in and dips her, “Well, I cannot wait to see you in action.” she whispers, dangerously close to her face to which Daniela burns bright red.

Sophia brings the two of them back to stand, as they continue their waltz. It’s just as magical as it felt. The room seemed to light, brighter than ever. Everyone could not help but notice just in sync the two were in their unrehearsed dance, seemingly reading the others move and following accordingly with one just as graceful

Yes, the two were undoubtedly a perfect match.

For now.

———

The party comes to an end as everyone slowly files out, tired yet elated with the bright atmosphere of the day. Sophia and Daniela stand at the door, saying their goodbyes to each guest as they pass.

“I have a surprise for you.” Sophia whispers.

“A surprise? For me?”

She nods, “You shall see, when we are done here.”

To say that Daniela was content was an understatement. She was over the moon, not only was her wife beautiful, blessed by Aphrodite herself, but she was thoughtful and caring. That was all she ever wanted or could ask for.

She couldn’t want for another, that she is sure of. Daniela was sure at that moment that Jonah had to have been wrong. That Sophia was not the monster that everybody claimed her to be. No, she was an angel, and she was Daniela’s now.

The night came to a close as they were guided to their carriage. Daniela and Sophia sat face to face, Megan at Daniela's left and Marquise to Sophia’s right. It was late into the hours of the night, and Daniela was exhausted after the day's long activities.

Daniela leans against Megan, and she closes her tired eyes. She could not wait to be in bed and not alone for once, with her king, her partner, her wife. She smiles in her sleepy state, the image of Sophia and her raising children and ruling over beautiful Manila, together.

In this vision, Sunoo would return to her side, serving her forever as he promised. Jonah would visit, not often, but enough to make it count. Perhaps she would have a few nieces and nephews to fawn over. And Naisha- well she would work with the people and help in strengthening the connections between the lands. They would work together as family, the way she always hoped they would.

Megan might even learn to smile or take a joke. Perhaps she will have taken a lover and softened up a little. She would guard her family as fiercely as she did Daniela’s. Lara would come to see how Sopha could be kind. Yoonchae would help with the children.

It would be perfect, it would be promised, their future. She was eternally grateful to have such luck and be born into this life. She was destined for this, this loving family and peaceful way of living.

BUMP

Daniela jolts awake, a small gasp escaping her.

“Hey! Slower! You scared the queen.” Megan orders.

“My apologies, your highness.”

Daniela sighs, “It is nothing. Do not mind my guard.”

Sophia leans forward, “You fell asleep for some time.” She rests her cheek upon her fist, “Tired?”

“Mhm.” Daniela mumbled.

“Too tired for your gift?”

Daniela sat up, “No! Of course not.” she smiled.

Marquise chuckled to herself, despite the exhaustion she was quite glad. Megan, of course, bore no reaction, only a quick glance at the latina.

“We are here!” shouts the coachman.

They come to a stop, Marquise stepping forward to open the door. She steps down, Megan following after. They help the royals out as they look upon the grand manor that they’ve arrived at.

It is huge, the largest home Daniela had ever seen. Has Sophia done all this? Just for her? The surprises just kept coming, didn’t they?

“Is this-”

Sophia nods, “Yes, it is yours.” she gestures to the steps, “I had the whole palace renovated the second I learnt of your arrival-”

“Mine? Don’t you mean ours?” Daniela asks, confused, but smiling still.

Sophia shakes her head, “ah no. I have a separate estate in another district.”

“But it is our wedding night?” Daniela says.

Sophia smiles, “Yes, it is.”

Daniela fidgets nervously, “...is there not something we are to do? As newlyweds?”

Sophia tilts her head, oblivious to what Daniela is asking. She finds it cute how shy she has gotten and she laughs, “I am unsure of what you mean?”

“Well… are not to spend the night together and…” She gestures vaguely with her hands

“And..?”

“Do not tell me you do not know?" Daniela rushes out. Her face was red with embarrassment.

“Are you commanding that I perform my martial duty to you?” She arches her brow.

“Commanding? No, of course not, I am only asking-” she inhales, “I simply wish to spend my first night as your wife with you.”

“Fine!”

Sophia dashed right past Daniela, into the palace. Daniela rushed behind her to catch up, as she was left behind.

“Sophia! Slow down! Where are you going?”

The king comes to an abrupt halt, "I'm going to our bed, is that not where you wish me to be?”

“No!”

“No?”

Daniela scoffs, “Not if you’re going to behave-“ she stops, remembering the dozens of servants all pretending not to watch- but most definitely were- she took a deep breath. “-You are angry. What is wrong? What have I done? Whatever it is, I am sorry.” She says, her voice dripping with sincerity.

Sophia frowns, she hates that Daniela has seen this ugly side of her. But she knows that she deserves better. She deserves someone who can afford to be a loving partner, not someone like… Sophia.

Daniela was pure and kind, a little hotheaded at times, sure, but she was innocent in the grand scheme of things. She couldn’t have her own darkness shadow her light.

So if being cold and distant is what she needs to do to protect that light. She will do just that, as painful as it felt to see the hurt on her (now) wife’s face.

“You have done nothing to be sorry for. I just… I…” the king tries and fails to make an excuse. “I… simply wish to return to my estate.”

Daniela puts her hand out for Sophia to grab, “Then let us go-“ Sophia does not reach for it. Dani drops it.

“No.. I…”

“You do not want me to be with you?”

“This is your home.” Sophia gestures around.

“And that is yours?” Daniela asks.
Sophia nods, “Yes, that is it.”

“I see.”

Sophia smiles, “you do? Good. So you are alright?” She does not wait for a response, “I shall speak with you later.”

Daniela turns, “I’m not alright! Sophia, this is how it is to be? This is our marriage? You there and me here?”

“Yes.”

“Why?”

Sophia looks away, “I thought it… it is easier.”

Daniela steps forward, “For whom?”

“What?” Sophia is almost stunned with the amount of talkback.

After her elder brother's passing, she became sole heir. Nobody denied her, out of respect for their future ruler, but the real reason? Fear.

Everybody knew Sophia had a temperament. She often had outbursts of rage, she could not control it. Still, people who worked for her (so the whole kingdom) knew it best not to question her as to avoid triggering an episode.

Everybody but Daniela.

“Easier for whom? You or me?” Daniela repeated, her voice did not waiver.

The staff nearly flinched with every “why” and “how come?” That came from Daniela. Despite her being their future queen, they could stop the thought coming from their heads,

‘What is that idiot doing?’

“I am not going to debate this with you.” Sophia asserted as she straightened up.

To Daniela, she looks annoyed, frustrated. Her voice strained and tinted with anger. Still, Daniela pushed. Unaware of how Sophia had reached her boiling point.

“I merely wish to understand, you have to at least tell me-“

“No, I do not need to do anything, I decide. I have decided, I AM YOUR KING.” She screams, voice now void of any softness.

The words hit harder than any fist, Daniela flinches.

“My mistake. I thought you were just Sophia. ” she speaks barely above a whisper, tears burning behind her eyes, but she refuses to let them fall.

Megan reaches for her sword, eyeing the king, she is waiting. She looks at Daniela.

‘Tell me and I shall end her now.’

Daniela shakes her head. Megan softens her grip, her hand never leaving her sword.

“Forgive me, your majesty.” Daniela says.

Sophia’s eyes widen at the title, “Dani, I did not mean-“ she starts.

Daniela does not want to hear it. “May I withdraw, your majesty? Or did you want to say anything else to me?” Daniela asks, looking to the ground.

Sophia takes a step toward her, Daniela takes one back. They both freeze, “Dan- Daniela this is for the best…”

She gives a false grin, “Of course your majesty, whatever you wish” she bows, not out of respect, but fear.

“Right.” Sophia mutters. And turns swiftly away from the palace, out the doors as they slam behind her.

Daniela is still stuck, unable to process what has happened. It scared her more than she liked to admit. Perhaps the rumors were true. Perhaps underneath the charm was the beast she had nightmares about.

So she decided then and there that she could not trust Sophia. Nevermind love, that was out of the question now. So much for her grand fairytale marriage.

Was she truly meant to spend the rest of her days alone? No partner, no king, no friends? She was unsure if she would survive in such circumstances.

Back in Cuba she had an enormous family and many friends. Although yes most came from politics, they were friends nonetheless. Better than being alone, that is what she feared most.

Now her nightmares had come to full fruition. She had acquired the most powerful cold, unloving partner and even worse, she would be used to conceive an heir then abandoned until she grew old.

“Excuse me, your highness.”

She turns to see Yunjin standing at attention. Her dark locks falling perfectly to frame her face, “Forgive me for the improper interruption. However, it is late, shall I guide you to your quarters, now?” she looks at the door where the king had stormed out, “I imagine you are exhausted.”

Daniela stares at the door her estranged partner had gone through moments earlier as she nods, “please.”

Yunjin guides her up the steps as Megan follows in from close behind. The walk to the room felt endless, Daniela’s thoughts racing in sync with her heart.

—

‘Why did she get so angry?’

‘Was the charm all a facade?’

‘Was Jonah right? Is she truly the monster the public claims her to be?’

Yujin opens the door to the bedchamber, it was grand and had likely the largest bed she had ever seen. The room is clean, too clean, it feels like it was staged. Perhaps it was. As though Daniela was never meant to lie in it.

And perhaps she wasn’t.

Three more girls make their way into the room, all wearing staff attire. One short blonde, two with dark brunette hair. They look young. Not much older than Daniela herself. They stand in a line and bow respectfully.

Yujin gestures to them, “These will be your dressers. They will dress you when you wake and undress you in the evening. If there is any trouble or perhaps you’d like to request a new piece to your attire, they are the ones you may make requests to.”

Daniela nods, “thank you.”

The attendant nods, “And this bell, ring it and I shall come. At any time and any hour. I am only a moment's notice away.”

Another firm nod, “I will keep that in mind.”

“Goodnight your highness.” Yunjin smiles.

“Goodnight, Yunjin.”
Yunjin takes her leave, leaving only Megan, Daniela and the three girls. Megan coughs as she turns to face the wall, “You might want to get dressed now, your highness. It is late.”

“Right of course, let’s do that.” She says.

Her maids begin to help undress her. She comes to learn their names as they introduce themselves one by one. Abby, Hinari and Ua. They work quietly but efficiently, they do not speak or make eye contact with the queen, as though they are afraid to.

Daniela clear her throat, “Uhm. You need not be quiet.” she laughs, “You may speak.”

Ua keeps working, “Her majesty, the king prefers it if we keep silent. It is the way things are your majesty.”

Abby and Hinari nod in agreement. They slip on her robe and return to standing side by side. They bow, wishing Daniela a good night before leaving.

Megan turns back around, her gaze still averted as she steps forward, “I am sorry I did not defend you when she spoke to you like that. I should have-”

Daniela laughs, dry and tired, but laughter nonetheless, “Megan, I did not expect you to interfere. You grew up with my brother, you are his closest and most trusted friend. That is why he sent you right? Because out of all the guards and knights in the palace, he knew nobody would have cared for or protected me like you. Is that correct?” she asks.

Megan nods, “Yes, your highness.”

Daniela smiles, “Then that must mean he trusts your judgement, right?”

“Right.”

“So I do then, too. I did not need protecting then. I trust you will know when it is the proper time to interfere.” she assures.

“Of course,” Megan steps back, “You are right as always, your majesty.”

Daniela hums in response as she moves toward the bed and sits on it. The mattress is soft, she might even go as far as to say that it is better than her own back home in Cuba. The sheets are pure white silk, they shine in the light of the moon coming through her window.

“Megan, you are right. It is late, get some rest, please?”

“As you wish. Your highness.” she walks to the door, stopping before closing it, she looks up hesitantly, “I wish you the sweetest dreams.”
The door closes and Daniela smiles, realizing Jonah must have told her to say that. It was what he used to say to her when she was young and still in need of tucking in. The memory crashed over her in a soft wave.

The princess flops onto the ground, clinging to the marble floors of the palace. Servants stare as the crown prince chases after her.

“Daniela Andrea Llorente Avanzini! Stop this madness at once!”

“Jojo!” A small, only 8, Daniela whines, “I don’t wanna go to bed! Not yet!”

Now 17, Jonah kneels down, “Dani… come on, it is not becoming of a princess to be causing such a fuss.” he smirks, “How would you feel if Sunoo saw you like this?”

Daniela gasps, scandalized, “No! You wouldn’t! Please don’t tell him!” she begged.

He stood up, pretending to think it over as he tapped his foot and rubbed his chin. He looked around the room as a now distressed Dani anxiously awaited her response.

“Hmm…” he hummed, “Let’s make a deal, shall we?”

She jumped to her feet, “Yes! Anything! Just no telling Sunoo!”

He grinned, “Well, let's say you go to bed right now, and I will do the same.”

“Uh-huh”

“And if I go to bed now, I will most likely forget this whole mess.” he extends his hand out to his sister, “How does that sound?”

Daniela took his hand eagerly, “Good!”

They walk together and as they do, servants smile fondly at the pair. Ever since her birth the two could not- no -would not part from one another. They were not like Naisha who preferred to keep from her elder brother and younger sister. No, they were two peas in their very own pod, from the start.

“Daniela, why is it you care so much about Sunoo and what he thinks?” Jonah asks.

“I dunno.”

“I don’t know is the correct phrasing,” he gently corrects, “And I don’t understand, he is not even a royal or prince. He is merely a servant just like anyone else in our kingdom. What makes him different?” he wonders aloud.

Daniela giggles, “well he is handsome like a prince. I like that about him.” she looks up at Jonah, “I like him because he’s nice to me.”

Jonah raises a brow, “Isn’t everybody else here, too?”

“Yeah, but he doesn’t treat me like he’s afraid to upset me. He’s honest with me.” she smiles at the thought of the boy.

“Well.. you don’t like him.. Like that, do you?” he hesitates, afraid of the answer.

“LIke a brother?” she asks, “Yeah I do, he looks out for me like you, Jojo.”

“Good.”

Jonah smiled as he guided her to her room. He opened the door as he led her to the bed, lifting her up and spinning her around once before set her under the covers. He tucks her in and presses a kiss goodnight to her forehead.

“Jojo?”

“Yes?”

“Will you tuck me in every night? Forever? Even when you’re king?”

He smiles, “Of course, hermana. I’ll clear all of my kingly duties just to see you to sleep. Forever”

The princess extends her pinky, “Promise?”

He wraps his around her own, “I promise.”

Jonah walks to her door, grabbing the handle and beginning to close it, but not before turning and giving her one last grin.

“I wish you the sweetest dreams.”

He closes the door, and Daniela falls asleep, peaceful, knowing her brother would always be there for her, that was promised. Forever, her best friend.

That night she goes to sleep, warm, but alone. No one to hold her or remind her she is not on her own. This time, the tears don’t meet resistance as she cries.

‘Hermano… you’re wrong. I’m not strong. I don’t know if I can survive this.’

She closes her eyes, praying for a kinder king in the morrow.

And then they kiss and get married
The end.