Welcome to Gaia! ::

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He continued to watch her braid and weave the colorful flowers, mixing in a few lilies into the concoction. All the while she answered his curious question, which she did as if she were simply walking and talking. St. John's Wort? Vale snickered at the hearing of such a name. He knew flowers always had strange names but this flower was currently excelling in that department. But even with that kind of name, the flower was pretty and medically useful all the same. And with the information she gave on, what was it, a snowdrop, the name gave him a sense of understanding. Although, honestly, the flower looked a bit depressing, it was still very unique to Vale. Who knew a flower grew in such a way. Within such a short amount of time the princess was already halfway through with his crown and with the roll of her shoulders he could tell her hands were getting tired. Should he rub her shoulders or something? Even without it, she still looked happy with her progress. It didn't seem she would need such a thing. It was a bit strange but after watching her for awhile, his eyes slowly moved from the braided flowers to her face. How her light hair shone nicely when hit directly by the sun and the flower behind her ear made her seem so majestic.Even her eyes glowed when she smiled Vale blinked when he noticed this and it almost scared him. Was it from spending so much time with her? That could be it. That must be it. He pushed out his worries when he heard her question and adjusted himself. "I believe my father taught me when I was ten. He believed it to be a sport fit for a prince. He hoped all the training would suit me if I were to one day, fight for my kingdom, or something along those lines." Vale rolled his eyes at the speech the king gave him at that age. "Before, I didn't even like it. It was painful, I could barely stay on my horse, the lance and armor was insanely heavy." He laughed remembering how top heavy he was and how he spent most of his time knocking himself over than his opponent. "Even now, I tend to be clumsy during a match, as you saw. But the feeling when you get when your lance and your opponent collide and you're still up is the best feeling." He said noticing she was about finished with the crown and was ready to be presented with it. She pulled away his singular flower and Vale lowered his head to her as she placed the crown on his head. She was great with estimating the size since it fit perfectly. When she began fixing his hair however, he became aware of their close proximity. This close, he could smell her scent which was very nice, if he had to be honest. She smelled of the same flowers she had recently picked. When she was finish with his hair, he rose his head to her and smiled. "Thank you, Eleanora. It fits perfectly. " He said, softly laughing at how awkward she seemed to be acting. Then again, who wouldn't be? Hard to say he didn't feel awkward as well considering how close the two had become but it wasn't necessarily a bad type of awkward.

Vale sat quietly for a moment and continued to think of every event that had occurred since the princess arrived. He had big questions about the letter, the queen, the true reason behind the war. He even had small ones like the princess's favorite flower, or whether or not she was truly comfortable here. He had been holding these questions back for some time and he was beginning to feel the desperation of wanting to ask them. If he was going to spend the rest of his days with the princess, he would feel a lot better knowing things, big or small, about her. He trusted her, but did she really trust him? He wanted to know. Vale finally came to terms with himself and decided to ask the questions that had been lingering in his brain for awhile now. "I've been wondering a lot of things now. And I feel that we could share things with one another, right? I have many questions and I guess I wish to start with the Queen. She mentioned another task? Was there a discussion between the royals that I failed to participate in?" He asked honestly, thinking that now that they've settled down and are finally married, perhaps they could at least begin to establish a base of trust among the two. He realized the risk he was taking with her but he just couldn't sit still. "Of course, I don't wish to pry too deep. If it is something you do not wish to say, then I understand."

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Vale laughed a bit, "Of course it does. But with experience, you get used to the pain. " He simply stated and grinning. He looked down at the princess as she laid down in the grass, looking at the sky which is slowly in the process of becoming multicolored. The day was so very nice, he could see why she was able to relax so much. "Let's go, then. Anytime you please." He said in a carefree tone. He actually didn't mind taking a little trip with the princess to visit her home. He wanted to see what it was like over there and wished to meet people she had relationships with. It would be normal for the husband to visit his wife's home so there wouldn't be a problem, hopefully, with the king. He took the liberty of laying down as well, placing his hands behind his head and being mindful of his new crown while she gave her answer to his question. He listened intently, trying to make sure he understood as much as he could and every few moments or so he would nod. Although he tried, the situation was quite complex. The queen, her sister, the two kingdoms. At this point, Vale was getting tired of the struggle the two kingdoms are going through just to try and make peace. Vale usually disregarded any political process needed for peace, he didn't think it should be so difficult. Yes, after the war was going to be some tension, but the two races practically coexist. He felt that there was more to this, but it didn't take enough priority at the time. To think he was fairly close to marrying such a young girl. Vale was glad to have been an only child.

So their attempt was to restore Toryn's soil. He knew their soil may not have been as great as Zimid's but was it that bad? Perhaps not just the soil was in bad condition, but the kingdom itself was probably a mess. With just Eleanora here, Vale could guarantee the soil has gotten better so she seemed to be holding up her side of the deal just fine. Vale sighed hearing at it was a Zimid problem. That may have been so, but if he would be able to speak to the queen maybe he could try to ease their tension and convince the queen that Eleanora is a good candidate for the deal and that her daughter will have her time. Would he be prying too much? Vale placed that aside for now to ask another one of his questions. "Why do you wish to become Queen? Yes, idiotic question but I'd like to know your genuine reason for wanting to fulfil such a position." He asked, unconsciously playing with the ends of her hair that was sprawled out onto the grass. "I don't even wish to become king in the future.."Vale saw no reason for a monarchy in general. Even with advisors and other elites, it was all one big competition for power, at least that is how it was in Toryn. Taking their family as an example. So much conflict going on just to find who would be a fit Queen for Zimid. It shouldn't be difficult to choose, Eleanora was obviously someone fit for it. Who in their right mind would place a young girl as Queen, someone who led an entire nation. But disregarding his disagreement with politics, he wondered if she had a specific motive in mind. Perhaps she just wishes to fill in for her mother?

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In a few days? Not a problem. Vale wouldn't pass a chance to leave Toryn for awhile since it would keep the king out of his hair. "We can begin preparations soon then." He said softly, looking at the small puffs of clouds that rolled by as well as the small birds that flew freely. He felt a bit envious of them, being able to do as they please and go wherever the wind took them. That was it. He wished to be free from being a royal. He never liked politics, he wasn't much of a people person to begin with, and just felt that the position of King wasn't right for him. He couldn't understand Eleanora's first reason. Because your parents wished for you to be queen? Even with Vale's mother around, he knew he wasn't the kingly type. The only reason he would even consider the option would be to take care of her. But now, there was no reason for him to want to be King. He did, only like the reason for helping her younger sister. Just meeting the queen once, he knew she was quite the stickler for perfection. He would accept her reasoning for that, maybe, since her sister was quite young. He pitied Cateline for having to deal with that woman. A girl her age should be allowed to live as free as the birds up above. But as for Vale, he had no reason to move up in power but he knew he probably couldn't escape from it. So that would mean he would need to develop a motive. Vale turned his head to the princess, "I don't see a point. In being king or in being a royal. I feel trapped." He started, "I suppose you can say I'm a bit of a rebel. I've never liked the government or how it's ran. It's just not something I'd like to place myself in the middle of." He said honestly, still fiddling with her blonde locks. "I see your reasons are based on others around you. Let me ask you, what is in it for you besides fulfilling your parent's wish?" He asked turning on his side to face her, propping himself up with his arm and ceasing to play with her hair. " For instance, what would be your first act as Queen?"

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Vale shrugged, hearing his response. Though he didn't wish to admit it, she was sort of right. He may not have liked the role the King was meant to play but if he was going to be forced to do such a thing he might as well do it to change things for the better. However, he did believe they came to this point because the two kingdoms were too stubborn to admit defeat before they were to wipe each other out. Of course, at times Vale thought about being king to change things but he knew none of his father's wishes were granted without going through the advisers. From the way Vale saw it, he assumed the advisers ran the nation more so than the king himself. Regardless of his feelings toward the matter, he knew he was going to need to step up for the task, whether he wanted to or not. The fact that Eleanora didn't mind the politics made Vale respect her even more.The reason anyone was able to tolerate this type of thing was beyond him. Listening to her about the reasons of wanting to be queen, it was still lost to him. But he respected her answer and gave a simple nod. He figured she had her reasons, even if they flew above Vale's head.

After asking what her first action as queen would be he began to think of his own. Vale could hardly imagine how drastic his casual schedule would change. He would have to attend all meetings, make military actions, visit other places, having to be somewhere or do something constantly. And it wasn't something Vale looked forward to. Neither did he have any idea of any decree to make. Laws? They seemed perfectly fine as they were. Military? Of course, no need now. Vale had no motive, no drive or aspiration. The princess seemed she felt destined for the role of queen, but Vale did not. In fact, making him king would probably be a huge mistake. Just as he was done thinking aimlessly, Vale shifted himself to lay on his back once more. Listening to her made him smile a bit.The way she sounded when she spoke, he didn't need to ask anymore questions on what her future held. "You'll be a great Queen." He stated, noticing the sky was changing from a bright orange, in the sun's direction, fading into a light pink and purple shade. It really was a nice day, and luckily, they didn't have to spend it kissing up to the elites or having a royal after party. He imagined his wedding day to be absolutely dreadful before, but it wasn't too bad. It was rather nice actually. Hopefully, the kingdoms would remain this peaceful when they were up to receive the throne. For now, Vale felt content with the answers he had received. He looked to her with yet another silly smile, "Now here's the most important question of all, and...I need you to answer honestly..." He said pausing for dramatic effect, "...Do you think I'd look good with a mustache?" He asked in a serious tone, but was joking none-the-less and after two seconds he started laughing at himself.

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Vale closed his eyes for moment and smiled, "No problem." He said with a cheerful sigh. Vale was glad he was able to get her to laugh a good laugh before the day ended. "I figured they would give me wisdom?" He said jokingly to her question as she stood up and cleaned off her dress. It seemed the princess was ready to go in to clean herself up so Vale thought, perhaps he would do the same. Perhaps it was time he would get himself a well deserved bath. Although the sun was ready to sleep, the kingdom wasn't so he was in for a night of loud celebration. He stood up after her and nodded to her response, grabbing his armor and lance from the ground. After walking some ways with her, they split into their different ways and Vale's first action was to call attention to two servants who happened to be passing by. "Korn. Harrold. Draw me a bath and gather some clothing for me?" He asked and went off without hearing an answer, assuming it will be yes. He went back to the armor room, shutting the door after him and sat down to polish his armor before placing it back into it's case, neatly. He left that room and went to bring his lance back into their shared room, but from the complaints he heard inside, Eleanora was still in there. For now, he left his lance outside the door and went off to receive his bath.

Vale found the bathroom the servant decided to use and went inside, closing the door after him. It seemed the servant was ready and so was he, so the first thing he removed was his floral crown, setting it aside gently on a chair. The servant looked rather confused at him as why where he obtained it. "Prince Vale, if I may ask, why do you have a crown..made of flowers?" He asked somewhat timidly and Vale turned to him, removing the rest of his clothing and attempted to release his hair, and forgot he had cut it short for the wedding. He chuckled and stepped into the iron tub, settling his body from the chest down into the water and resting his arms along the sides. "The princess made it for me. " He said proudly, leaning back and relaxing himself as the servant began to massage his scalp before placing water into it. "It looks very nice, Prince Vale. The princess is very crafty it seems." He said washing his hair, almost relieved Vale cut his hair since it was less work for him. "Yes. She's..great in a lot of ways." He said sighing and closing his eyes, enjoying the fingers running through his follicles. After awhile, the other servant sent for his clothes came in and wished to place his clothes on the chair but noticed the crown was there and placed it on a table near the tub, quickly taking his leave. "Alright I'm getting out." He said, lifting himself out of the tub and dried himself with a nearby towel and running a hand through his newly washed hair. He placed on his clothes which was a simple black pants with a long sleeve satin shirt. He left the bathroom with the towel around his neck, dabbing at the extra water around his neck.

Vale wandered around aimlessly until he ended up on a balcony that oversaw the kingdom. At this point, the sky was dark but the kindom was lit up. It sort of looked like a thousand fireflies to Vale. He leaned on the railing of the balcony and simply stared out to the kingdom. Seeing the celebrations go, the many open taverns and hearing the cheering coming from them. Seeing the many children play in the streets and the music playing from afar. It was nice to see the kingdom during the time of celebration, everyone seemed s happy putting all of their daily worries aside for a night and treating themselves to a night of happiness and laughter. Vale wasn't one for them, but it was nice to see the kingdom this way. Maybe that would be one pro to being king. If he could keep Toryn happy, then maybe he could see this everyday.

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As the sky darkened, the kingdom shone even brighter. And Vale hadn't moved from his spot. An occasional servant would come to check on him but he would simply dismiss them soon after, except for one which he ordered to begin preparations for their trip to Zimid within a couple of days. In all honesty, he was ready to leave Toryn for a bit and go sight seeing a bit. Perhaps meet Faes that had personal ties with Eleanora. Maybe even meet this council she had spoken a lot about. He, however, wished to avoid the queen of zimid at all costs. Hearing the way she and Eleanora spoke to one another and the tension they created was like chewing nails. Amusing, but not a good idea. With the visage Vale was seeing right now, he wondered if Zimid looked like this at night as well. Perhaps even better. That, he also looked forward to. He took away his weight from the railing and stood up straight, taking in one last glance before turning back, inside the castle.

Vale had woken up earlier, dressed up in formal attire, married the princess of Zimid, Had dinner with difficult people, jousted, had a long conversation with said princess, and pampered himself. Vale could not think of any other day in his life that had ever tired him out so much. He had felt sluggish since he came in from the garden with the princess. And speaking of her, where had she gone at that time? There weren't many places the princess genuinely enjoyed within the castle perimeters so his guesses were pretty limited. Regardless of her location, he was sure she was using her time with a purpose. Vale noticed how the princess was very close knit with her council and the rest of the government. All the while, Vale barely remembered the names of the advisors and he hadn't had a serious conversation with his father in years. Of course, being that she is a princess, it's only common sense to be active within the government , but as for Vale, he was basically treated as a citizen with an access pass to living in the castle. Not that he didn't like this in the first place. He just couldn't imagine it changing, becoming more involved like his mother had been. Vale shook his head, he had been letting his mind wander a lot these days and it was becoming annoying. He had made his way back to their shared bedroom, opening the door and noticing that the princess wasn't there. Where could she be at this hour? Though he questioned her location, he wasn't worried. She had shown him many times that she's perfectly fine with or without him. He went inside, setting the towel he dried his hair with aside and sat down on their bed. It was quite the upgrade from his old bed but he still preferred it, it was just something he was more used to. In fact, everything was going to be different now that they were married. He usually would ponder about the changes, but he was practically dozing off by sitting on the bed. He climbed in, claiming his side and snuggling into the great amount of pillows. The moment his head hit the pillows, he had drifted off into a deep sleep, not even bothering to blow out the candles that illuminated the room, like the one that sat on Vale's bedside table, right next to Eleanora's flower crown that one of the servants brought in after his bath.

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Vale slept soundly until the morning commotion became louder than usual. Of course, today they were suppose to leave for Zimid. No wonder the castle was so lively this early. He knew he had to get up but he just couldn't bring himself to get up. The bed he was sleeping almost made him want to postpone the trip just so he could sleep in it some more. He attempted to fall back into a deep sleep, until the covers were taken off of him, unleashing a wave of chill over him. He groaned and immediately nuzzled his face back into the pillows. "Ugh..not now.." He grunted into the pillows, very muffled. But after that, she had returned to wake Vale up properly. She shook his shoulder and called out his name. He gently took hold of her wrist and peeked an eye at her. "Has it ever occurred to you...That maybe I'm playing sleeping beauty and you must kiss me to wake me?" He said chuckling and releasing her wrist. If he didn't get up now, he sure wasn't about to later so he forced himself to sit up for a moment to stretch, his bed head being apparent. He stood up and grabbed the clothes a servant had prepared for him the night before, going into a nearby bathroom to change his clothes into that of a semi-formal outfit. He also ran a brush through his hair, taking away the messy strands. After doing so, he returned to the room and leaned into the door way.

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Vale chuckled as he watched her braid her seemingly un-tamable hair, "I could have taken longer, if you wanted." He said walking after her after she passed him by. Vale dragged himself along side her, still yawning and trying to shake away his sluggish feeling. She made the signal and just like that they were both sitting in the carriage, ready to head to Zimid. He got comfortable in the carriage, sitting across from her and looking at her with a grin. "Not to be rude, but...you look strange with that dress on." He said holding back a laugh. "Not that is isn't a good attire." He said analyzing her appearance. One thing for sure, she was wearing a different kind of dress. It was darker than her usual outfits. Of course, she still looked ncie but it was just a bit different from the norm.

The carriage began to take off with the both of them, starting off at a slower pace going through the main Toryn streets. As they passed by, many citizens stared off at the carriage. Some were confused, some merely waved, at them, knowing it was a royal carriage. It took a bit of time, but soon the carriage that carried the too was able to leave the Kingdom without any problems. With this also, they were able to pick up speed and begin at a moderate pace toward Zimid, entering an underpass of trees. Small bits of light would pierce through the trees' cover and into the carrigage while the noise of Toryn slowly died away, being replaced by the thumping of the horses and the turning of the wheels. Vale didn't mind visiting Zimid, it was the trip getting there that he wished to skip. However, being that he was with Eleanora, it probably wouldn't be as painstakingly boring as going there by himself would be. "So will you be taking me sight seeing? Perhaps take me on a date?" He said chuckling, "You should show me...Ah..What was it..The competition with magic?" He asked trying to remember the name of it. He remembered when she spoke of it and it had intrigued him.