Royalty on a verge

Chapter 12: A Proposal Unfolds

As Ivana and Edmund delve deeper into their mission, facing a series of increasingly daunting trials, the tension back at the palace takes on its own flavor. With Ivana absent, Arthur navigates court matters in her stead, addressing the mounting whispers about the princess's daring escapades. Courtiers buzz with gossip about her extended journey, some thrilled by her boldness, others scandalized by her defiance of traditional expectations.

It is then that King Christopher's formal letter arrives

It is then that King Christopher's formal letter arrives, delivered with the royal insignia and sealed in crimson wax. The courier presents it to King Arthur with a low bow, adding to the air of formality that makes the room go still. Arthur takes it carefully, breaking the seal with a practiced hand, while advisors lean in just enough to catch his expression.

The letter unfolds elegantly, the words laden with royal formality. But soon, a subtle frown creases Arthur's brow, then shifts into a smirk. The message is as much a proposal as it is a provocation: King Christopher suggests a marriage alliance between his son, Edmund, and Princess Ivana, hinting that "her vibrant spirit would benefit from Edmund's steadying influence."

Arthur chuckles to himself, imagining Ivana's reaction to the suggestion that she needs "steadying." He can already see her rolling her eyes, retorting something sharp and witty. But this proposal, while ambitious, could shape the future in ways neither kingdom had anticipated.

Arthur turns to his advisors, nodding thoughtfully. "An alliance with Christopher's kingdom is no small matter. But one must wonder if they truly understand who they're proposing this union for," he says, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Suggesting that my daughter would need 'guidance' from Edmund... she may find the notion insulting."

The senior advisor raises an eyebrow. "Shall I inform Princess Ivana of the proposal upon her return, Sire?"

Arthur taps the armrest, a thoughtful look in his eyes. "Not yet. Let her finish her mission. And let's see if Edmund proves he's up to the task of winning her favor on his own."

The advisors murmur in agreement, and Arthur places the letter on the table, smiling quietly. He knows his daughter, and he knows her resilience. If anyone tries to "steady" Ivana, they're likely to be swept up in her whirlwind instead.

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Meanwhile, On the Adventure

As Ivana and Edmund trek through darkened passages and scale steep cliffs, completely oblivious to the proposal brewing back home, the dynamic between them begins to shift in subtle ways. Their bickering sharpens with tension as they navigate the challenges together, Ivana pushing limits and Edmund matching her in his own, more composed way. With each hurdle they overcome, an unspoken bond grows between them—a bond laced with rivalry, laughter, and the thrill of discovery.

But far from the palace and its politics, they're focused only on the mission and each other, unaware of the future their families are scheming.