The next morning Hammun enters the medicinal gardens and motions for Musinm to leave him with his fiance. Heading to the pergola that is slightly lit under the breaking dawn the rest of the light comes from the oil lanterns hanging throughout illuminating his fiancee in a golden glow.

  Approaching her he can see her grinding up yellow powder, her body moving with each turn she makes in the pestle bowl. Reaching her he taps her left shoulder and leans on the table at her right.

  Turning and seeing no one Hestia returns to her curcumin with a pout of having been interrupted. Jumping in surprise at the tall man beside her, “Hammun! I have asked you not to scare me like this anymore,” she whines. She scans the garden with a perturbed expression causing him to laugh.

  “It is so early, but I knew you would be here. You are making tea?” Lifting a cup of milk to his nose to smell, “Why coconut milk?”

  Coconuts are not native to Aidkjeen, and most of the common folk have never even seen them. The sweet fruits are imported from Nevalvn. Something Hestia has been very happy about.

  Taking the milk from his hands Hestia places it back in the same spot, “Hammun I am focusing, do not mix up the ingredients.”

  Grinning Hammun playfully slides the milk to the left to see if Hestia will notice.

  Hestia's nose twitches as she moves it back to its original position.

  Chuckling to himself he lifts a small bowl of soft brown powder, “Ginger?”

  Taking it from his hands, “Yes ginger, and before you touch other things,” Hestia points to the pestle and mortar “bloodwort,” pointing at the bowl he touched before, “ginger,” her pinky points to a small bowl, “cinnamon,” pointing at two small jars, “nutmeg and honey.”

  Reaching for the nutmeg, Hestia pulls on his arm.

  “I told you everything, must you touch them?”

  “I will put it back.”

  His response is met with a blank stare. “Please kitten,” he says with a pleading expression.

  “We are not married yet, you should not call me this,” she grumbles. “You never put them back in the proper place. Every time I make anything with you I always make mistakes because you switch the ingredients around.”

  Hammun grins unbothered by her complaints, her pout makes it impossible for him to feel anything besides happiness. After stressful moons of planning, and meetings, seeing Hestia always brings him such peace.

  “This time I shall help you. It is for mother, of course I shall help.”

  “I am already finished,” Hestia grumbles.

  Hammun leans so his mouth is level with her ear. “Next time then.”

  Moving her shoulder up to protect her ear, “Hammun, you do this every time. It is distracting.”

  Rising to his full height, “That is precisely why I do it. The repetition will help you. If I continue to do this you will not be so easily distracted in the future. You are welcome.” Resting his back on the table his eyes stay on Hestia as she mixes the ingredients into a sauce pan. “I always love seeing you so focused.”

  Whisking everything into a pot, she glances at him, raising her brow. “Hammun we are not supposed to interact like this. The palace has rules. I may not know all of them, but interacting like this in public is surely one.”

  Public? He glances at Musinm’s shadow at the edge of the garden. Standing behind her, he moves her brown hair off her shoulder, “I thought you did not like the palace rules?”

  “It does not matter if I like them. I must learn them. I cannot run freely like a child forever. I need to focus on being a princess, which means you and I should have some distance,” she tells him with sudden maturity.

  Chuckling softly, “Distance? I have been away from you all day.” His hands falls to her side to tap the table, “And night, the moon is leaving the sky.”

  Hestia rolls her eyes, and fails to hide her smile. “Either way, you and I should focus on our positions.”

  “I know my place well Hestia. Every moment I spend away from you I am focusing. Should your presence not be one I can relax in?” He allows his fingers to brush against Hestia’s.

  “Why do you ask for distance from your fiance? Have I disappointed you?” He asks, noting that she nibbles on her lip in thought. Or maybe her heart is opening to him and that is why she distances herself?

  “No,” Hestia says immediately. “Whatever you just thought that made you smile like that is incorrect.”

  The milk simmers and her eyes go back to the pan.

  “Have you learned of your feelings for me, and now you wish to have distance?” Crossing his arms, “You are afraid of what you will do now that your heart beats faster at the thought of me?”

  Coughing Hestia drops her head to focus on the pan, “Because of what you think you are blind to what you see.”

  “Am I Hestia? My Princess Hestia, am I incorrect in my thinking? Rarely am I ever wrong.”

  “Hammun! Must you be so distracting today? Who likes who? Whose heart is beating for who? My heart beats because it is supposed to.”

  Laughing, “Alright, you wish for distance. How far shall I stand?” He backs up five paces, “Is here satisfactory kitten?”

  Pouring the milk from the pan into a pitcher, “I just think that we need to develop a more proper relationship.”

  “Proper?”

  “We should follow the rules more. Be an exemplary couple, and that can help the peace between kingdoms,” she says in a shy tone, but the seriousness in her eyes is not something to ignore.

  “Hestia, you do not need to stress about these matters. I will protect your kingdom, you need not fill your mind with worry,” he says, dropping his humour.

  “Life is not always peaceful. Even birds find themselves flying through storms. If you are the only one with wings fighting for my kingdom in court-” setting the pitcher down she turns to face him. “It is my kingdom. I must mature myself to protect it. Today’s matters made me think, if something happens, the peace may not stay the same. If we keep things the way they are, would that not harm us instead of aid us?”

  Hammun holds back his response. It is precisely because the princess of the Nevalvn kingdom is so disconnected from political affairs that the treaties between the nations are not impossible. If Hestia starts to move and act as a true princess it could create fear of an imbalance of power. Not to mention how she would respond if she knew what was happening, luckily the so-called Sun Warriors stopped the violence in her kingdom from spreading.

  “Sometimes I wonder-” capping the milk Hestia begins to put away the powders and bowls on the table.

  “Wonder what?” Hammun asks, walking forward to help her.

  “If I moved the way Aaleyah does, would that aid my kingdom more? The aura she has, people follow her, she is a natural leader, and walks with something I cannot define. With one look guards avert their gaze and bow to her. That kind of power could help my kingdom. If I could learn to move the way she does then maybe-”

  “No.” Hammun places a hand atop of hers, “You are powerful the way you are. The Hestia you are today helps your kingdom in many ways. You are a breath of fresh air, officials know they can trust you. Having power can be a dangerous thing. Sun Sister has a different air around her. You need not mimic it. Her power stems from so much pain. She is unreadable, a book of poems with stanzas that have been blotted out. Her nature is hidden underneath a heavy legacy, you can admire her, but never attempt to emulate her.”

  Turning to face him with angry eyes, “Are you saying I do not know pain?”

  “Not at all,” Hammun tells her calmly, not rising to meet the anger in her tone. “The only person you need to be is you. Do not attempt to fly with another’s wings.”

  Crossing her arms, “Perhaps I am too young. I have not been a princess for long. I came from a noble family, but I was training to be a pharmacist, to studied how to make medicine. Now I suddenly have a fiance, and power I am unable to use. A mother I desperately wish to help. If everyone in the palace uses their power, then maybe the queen would not have been harmed. I should learn to make people fear my kingdom, then they will know this kingdom has a strong ally.”

  Opening his arms towards her, “If it brings you comfort I can arrange a tutor for you to learn the rules of the palace.” Hestia steps into his arms just enough for his hands to rest on the elbows of her crossed arms. “However, there is nothing you need to radiate but your true self when in front of me. I can teach you horse riding, philosophy, and Aidjeeken, so you can speak to the people. Just keep in mind that the people of the Nevalvn kingdom chose you for a reason. If you change from your authentic self it may cause them worry,” he tells her, hoping she will hear his words and stay away from the political paths.

  The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

  She finally steps closer allowing him to hug her. Lifting her head to see his face, “The Hestia I am now, is it really acceptable?”

  “Yes,” he answers confidently. “Knowing I will be married to you brings me joy. If you change into a different person then I would not know the woman I am to marry. Knowing I have you, the you in front of me. The you who is radiant brings me all the peace I need to do my job and protect the kingdoms,” he adds, hoping to erase her insecurities.

  Hestia nods into his chest. “Yesterday, Aaleyah’s face was calm, it was as if she was unaffected by what was happening. She did not show fear or worry. That is the way a true royal should act, but I think-I think my emotions are too strong for me to hold back. Aaleyah is the high princess for a reason, she seems to have experience, and far more knowledge of her position. It makes sense for people to bow to her. I just need to find ways for it to make sense for people to bow to me as well.”

  Hearing that she is no longer attempting to emulate Aaleyah and her power, the tension in the pit in his stomach eases. “It is too early for you to hold so much in those beautiful eyes of yours. Allow your heart to lead you, it has done an exemplary job so far. Ignore your brain and come to breakfast with me.”

  Taking the milk she just finished making in one hand he offers her the other. “We can give this to mother. Shall we get you changed and ready for the day?” Speaking louder, “Musinm, you are relieved, get some sleep.”

  Hestia sighs contentedly. “Hammun?”

  Hammun hums and turns his head to look at her.

  “More than just my role as a princess,” she fidgets with the jewels on her dress, “are you satisfied with my role as your fiancee?” she asks, her voice a whisper. “I know I am not very affectionate.

  It has been seven Blue moons since Hestia came to the capital, but they have only been engaged for one. Unlike his brother who spent Blue moons searching for Aaleyah and falling for her without truly realizing; Hammun was different. His friendship with Hestia was peaceful, as for love; he is not sure if the love he has is what is needed between man and wife.

  “My sweet kitten. You are doing great, this is not a job you can fail at.”

  Hestia squeezes his hand absentmindedly. “But we are not very uhm, well,” she swallows and looks away.

  “The life of a royal can be a scary path, it is beautiful to shine in the sky with another star. That fact that we get along is perfect enough for me. I am satisfied with being your friend,” he comforts.

  Hestia smiles and hugs him, hiding her face in his chest.

  Chuckling he balances the milk in his hand. “I thought you wished for distance?” He teases, laughing when she makes him move away.

  In Aaleyah’s chambers Saan wakes only holding a blanket in his arms. From the side the sunlight breaks through the curtains from the balcony. Hearing movement behind him he turns expecting to see Aaleyah.

  Dreaa, one of Aaleyah’s servants, bows n-cou:hands at belly level, right over left with thumb on the left wrist pulse, the body bows 30 degrees.

  Her hands shake, her head never lifts as she speaks. “High Prince Saan, this one is ordered to come wake you.”

  Rising from the bed, “Where is the high princess?”

  Stepping around the corner is Aaleyah dressed in a soft yellow gown, her hair not yet done, simply held back with a silver and red hair comb, the rest falling down her back. A bundle of clothes drapes over her arm. “Good morning, I retrieved your garments for you,” she greets with a warm smile.

  Moving towards her he checks her eyes. The ladies turn away as he places his hand on her cheek, “They are swollen,” he says gently massaging the space under her eyes.

  Clearing her throat, “It is nothing.” Taking his hand from her face she gives him his clothes. “A bath has been drawn for you. After dressing the queen requested our presence for breakfast.”

  “Aaleyah-” He says, wishing to speak about yesterday's events.

  “There is nothing to worry about. This one will not worry you again,” she vows.

  Pulling her close he kisses her forehead before walking towards the bath.

  Watching him walk off Aaleyah gathers the items she will need when he comes out. Setting the comb down in the main room, she heads to her bedside table to fetch his crown.

  Leelin comes in with a tray of flower pouches, and presents them to her.

  Smiling Aaleyah lifts each one; smelling them carefully. Strong scents give Saan a headache, but sweet ones hurt her nose. Finally finding one to tie into his clothes she sets it off to the side.

  Leelin sneaks glances at her lady, “High princess, permission to speak?”

  Aaleyah pauses her movements to focus on Leelin. Leelin is her senior by two Red moons, the wrinkles around her beautiful brown eyes from her life of smiles have already begun to appear on her face.

  Leelin once worked at the side of her father, but gave up her position as a scholar, refusing to condemn her friends. When King Hammaan took the throne Leelin was offered her position again, but rumours were circulating of Aaleyah’s return. Leelin vowed that when the Aljehni returned to the kingdom she would be there to wait on her and guide the rest of her life. Dropping her position as a scholar.

  “No need for formalities. Please speak.”

  Leelin kneels on the ground, “High Princess Aaleyah,-’

  Reaching her arms out to pull her up, Aaleyah sighs when Leelin refuses to rise.

  “The world is filled with great evils, even honey can have a sting, so if you find someone who will take the stings with you, it is vital to hold on.”

  “Please do not speak on the floor like this, rise.” Aaleyah’s urges do not work so she drops to her knees. “What else is it you wish to tell me?”

  “High princess, you must never kneel to me.” Leelin shakes her head knowing of Aaleyah’s stubbornness. “This humble one wishes to advise. ‘Ones teachers are seen, through the way their followers show love to one another.’ Please do not suffer alone.”

  Aaleyah’s eyes dart to the direction of the bath. “In this life, learning to do things alone is a vital lesson.” Extending her hand she assists Leelin to her feet and they stand together. “I understand your words, but one must not forget that some die from bee stings, while others only feel pain. Why risk the death of another? A few stings will not harm me for too long.”

  Leelin turns her face away. Aaleyah wonders if it is remorse she does not wish for her to see, or pity?

  The women go back to their morning routine, and Aaleyah sits at the vanity to allow Leelin to comb her hair.

  Leaving dark curls to frame Aaleyah’s small face, the top of her hair is pinned up. Twirling the back into a bun a red moon clip slides through it connecting to her crown, tying it up.

  Leelin spares a glance at the blue colored garments Aaleyah picked out for Saan, “Shall I fetch the blue garment to go over the dress?”

  Putting each cuff onto her upper arms, she picks up a bracelet and slides the first part onto her finger before fastening the rest around her wrist. “Yes, thank you Leelin.”

  Leelin rushes off and a moment later Saan returns his hair dripping water from the bath.

  Picking up a cloth Aaleyah motions for him to sit in the seat she was in. “If you keep your hair wet like this you will catch a chill.”

  Closing his eyes as Aaleyah dries his hair, “The sun will dry it, you need not worry.”

  Aaleyah hums and combs through his hair.

  “Aaleyah will you speak to me now?” He asks gently, his eyes opening to meet hers in the mirror.

  Dropping her gaze to his hair she focuses on braiding it. It was foolish to hope, consciously or subconsciously that he would allow her to move on from last night. “One would not dare ignore the high prince.”

  “Last night-” Saan starts and her hand hovers in the air nervously.

  Picking up a hair stick she holds his brain in place so she can braid the other side.

  “This morning I will give you some honey water. I will also need your help today. We will pay a visit to my mother, if you have other schedules, may I selfishly ask that you stay by my side instead? I should apologize, but I do not wish to be alone.” He lifts his head to face her slightly, a look of question in his eyes.

  Finishing his hair, her hands linger there. Without her asking he chooses not to push; but this time, why does she not feel relief? “I will not leave your side.”

  Saan rises and picks up the garments, quickly scanning her dress, “What will you wear today?”

  Before she can respond, Leelin returns with the white and blue robes.

  Saan nods with a warm smile. “Leelin, are you well?”

  Leelin bows and places the blue robe into his open hands. “This humble servant is well, thank you.”

  Saan motions for Aaleyah to turn around so he can assist her into robes piece by piece.

  Her eyes drift between his face and the clothes. “This subject shall not trouble the high prince, allow one to use their own arms.”

  Saan raises a brow, “Is it not an honor to have the high prince help? Will you leave your high prince waiting?”

  Leelin is still in the room, it will be rude to disobey the high prince’s orders. Thus Aaleyah slowly turns around and allows Saan to help her wear the robes, her hands sliding through the big linen sleeves. When there is one robe left Saan twirls her around to fix the belt on her waist.

  Aaleyah’s eyes connect with Leelin who bows before exiting the chambers.

  Once she is gone Aaleyah takes a step back sliding herself out of his hands.

  “Being so far from me, does this mean I will have to dress myself?” Saan asks.

  Shaking her head she picks up his black inner robe to help him dress, fastening the ties at his sides.

  Saan stands obediently, arms spread out, happily allowing her to dress him piece by piece.

  Finishing up she places the outer blue robe on and turns to wear her on but he beats her to it. His smile is still easy but there is something about it that allows her to turn so he can place her robe on.

  When they are both ready to depart, Saan extends his hand towards her with a strained smile. “You promised to stay by my side today.”

  Staring at his outstretched hand, her heart thuds. “Does the high prince believe I will run away?”

  “Absolutely.” He answers without hesitation.

  Taking a step back Aaleyah rubs her chin to cover her shock. “This humble subject has promised to stay by your side. The promise will not be broken.”

  “If you claim to be a subject then you shall follow all of your high prince’s orders, no?”

  The only way for Aaleyah to deny taking his hand is for her to stop calling herself a subject, which is precisely what Saan wants.

  Placing her hand in his, she follows him out of the chamber.

  Walking down the corridor Saan’s smile slowly fades and he remembers the Aaleyah who never held back her words.