Please see my profile to find where to find the background information on this AU! It would be greatly appreciated!
A great social success is a pretty girl who plays her cards as carefully as if she were plain. - F Scott Fitzgerald.
It was a big night in the Kingdom of Spades. Earlier that day, Amelia Elizabeth Jones was sworn onto the throne of Spades as the Regina of Spades, following the footsteps of many queens before her. Monarchs from all of the kingdoms came to celebrate, each bringing gifts for the newly crowned royal. The citizens had been celebrating as well. Merry shouts and loud chants could be heard from through the open bedroom window. Drunkards sang songs of joy and jubilee. A new monarch had been crowned. A new card had been dealt. Their only princess, the sweet Amelia, was taking the first step to the rest of her life.
She sat at her dressing table, applying the last little bit of lip gloss she could. Tonight was her night. Everyone was downstairs, awaiting her arrival. She was going to be the center of attention. Everyone had shown up there to celebrate her coming of age. She'd been taught all her lessons, and had all her manners perfected. It was a night of passing for any young princess. The date had been circled in red on her calendar for months, keeping her going. She had been to so many dress fittings that she could still feel the pins accidentally being pushed into her. All of her teachers and elders said she was ready.
But, to her, something didn't feel right. As she looked in the mirror, she didn't see a young monarch, ready to take the throne. It was the face of a girl, unsure of where her life was going. She had only just turned 18 years old that morning. For most normal people, there would have been a cake and some presents. But, for her, millions of people were cheering and celebrating, drinking spirits and dancing in the streets. The cake wasn't just for a small family, but an entire ballroom full of other monarchs that have been playing their cards for much longer than her. Emotions welled up inside of her, like a firework ready to explode. But, her firework had to be placed in the bucket of water. She had to feel ready to become to Regina of Spades that the whole kingdom had been waiting for.
A knock came on the door, pulling Amelia out of her trance. She lifted her head, setting down the silver tube of gloss onto the dressing table. "It's open." She said, loud enough for whoever was outside the door to hear. With a creek, in stepped her older and dear brother, Alfred. He was dressed to the nines, suited up in the entire royal knight's garb they could throw on him. He closed the door behind him, standing by the door.
"You ready, sis?" His voice was soothing, reassuring Amelia that she was ready. She could find her path later. Tonight was all that mattered. Alfred flashed his signature smile, which made any lady practically fall to their feet at the sight of it.
Amelia stood up, leaving the chair pushed out. Her dress was heavy, decorated with everything from tulle to sequins. The seamstress really didn't stop at anything to make her sparkle. Even though Amelia refused to wear heels, it was still difficult to walk. She kept a smile on, however, as she walked to take her escort's hand. As her fingers met his glove, all the worries she thought she had left at the table began to come back. She was scared. However, she shook it off and nodded to her brother. Alfred opened the door, letting Amelia take the first steps, before closing it behind him and leading her down the hall.
As they walked, the music from the ballroom became louder and louder. Attendee's voices were becoming clearer and clearer. The amount of castle staff trailing behind the two of them slowly grew. Everyone wanted a glimpse of the new Regina. It was a night to be remembered by everyone. Amelia looked at the drapery that had been there for so long as she walked. It seemed so familiar, yet so new. She closed her eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. Alfred had his arm locked with hers, so she wouldn't go toppling over when she walked down the stairs. Soon, the music stopped and the voices hushed. Alfred and Amelia stood outside the ballroom door, awaiting the signal to be allowed inside.
When the door opened, it was as if a spotlight had turned on. Everyone stared at the newly crowned royal, murmuring to one another. Amelia couldn't make out what they were saying. She kept her eyes locked on her father, who watched on from afar, tipping his champagne glass towards her. Alfred began to lead her down the stairs, each step causing Amelia to tremble more. Why was she so nervous? She had practiced over and over, until her feet were covered in blisters. But, just as her teacher said, the real thing wasn't going to be like her practice. When they reached the final stair, she jumped back to reality and quickly bowed before everyone. Alfred flashed another smile before bending down to whisper into her ear.
"Go get 'em, tiger."
He unhooked their arms before disappearing into the crowd. The spotlight that was on the two of them had shrunk. She had to shine. She took another deep breath as the emcee of the night finished his speech. As Amelia began to realize what was going on, she was crowded with other royals to be greeted. Many people walked up to her, congratulating her on her hard work. Some told her how much she had grown since they last saw her. Some thanked her for the lovely evening. However, everyone she met told her two simple words. "Good luck." Those words resonated in her head, adding to the already growing pile of worries.
Things began to calm down. Everyone went back to their own conversations, drinking and socializing. Amelia made her way over to her parents, who were speaking with the monarch from the kingdom of Diamonds. She didn't want to interrupt, so she stood back a bit. The first son of Diamonds was walking around, quickly spotting her and coming over. His name was Francis. He was a flirtatious young man, rarely seen without a woman under his arm. People called him the master of romance. Amelia hadn't seen him for a few years, since she was barred from leaving Spades until she was done with her lessons. It was rumored that the current King of Diamonds was going to step down soon, giving Francis the throne. However, it was just a rumor. The king of Diamonds seemed to be enjoying himself, drinking a glass of champagne with his trophy wife attached to his waist.
Francis made his way over to her, shooting some winks to the other ladies attending the party as he walked by. The girls on the receiving end just blushed and waved in return, infatuated with the fact that a member of a royal family just barely gave them the time of day. Amelia turned to greet the young Prince, or as he is known in Diamonds, the Sequent of Diamonds. She bowed to him, welcoming him with a warm smile.
"It's been a while, Francis." She began, coming out of her curtsey. Francis walked up to her and took her hand, lifting it to his lips and kissing it gently. Amelia knew she shouldn't get too excited, but she couldn't help but blush.
"Bonsoir, Votre Majesté." Francis spoke in the native language of Diamonds. The words rolled off his tongue like butter. Diamonds was known as a romantic country, but he was taking it to the next level. "You are looking very lovely, tonight."
Amelia slowly took her hand back, putting it back in its natural position, which was resting over her skirt. "I'm very glad you could find time to come," She acted like it was any normal person she had to greet, "I hope you are enjoying yourself."
"Enjoying myself, I am." Francis only chuckled, looking around at the other attendees. He sipped the glass of champagne he was carrying, finishing it and setting it on a tray that a passing staff member was carrying. It was something like one would see out of a movie. "You've grown even more beautiful since I have last seen you, Amélie". He spoke loud enough to be heard over the orchestra playing, but soft enough for only Amelia to hear.
Amelia suddenly felt the urge to drink. Was Francis trying to hit on her? They weren't too far apart in age. She looked over at her mother, who seemed caught up in conversation with some old friends of the royal family. She turned back to Francis, almost unsure of what to say.
"I'm glad you think so." She told him in response, before looking around for a waiter to bring her something to drink. Anything to get her out of this conversation would be the best thing. Francis cocked a grin, getting the attention of a female waitress before Amelia could. The waitress hurried over to him, asking him what he needed. Guests always came first in the Spades kingdom, after all.
"Your Regina would like something to drink, it seems." He told the waitress, pointing to Amelia. The waitress smiled and asked Amelia what she would like to drink. Amelia told her, and the waitress left to go fetch it. Francis turned back to Amelia, his smile sparkling even more than the chandelier. "If you need anything else, don't be afraid to ask me."
Amelia was totally confused. How was she supposed to respond? Obviously in the most logical way. "That should be my job, Francis." She laughed, trying to be as natural as possible. Francis' eyes slimmed, and he brought his face closer to Amelia's.
"Then," he whispered, running his hands through her hair, "Why don't you come back with me to my room tonight? I'll show you what a true king is."
Amelia just about screamed, ducking out of his presence as best she could. She surely was shaken by that comment. Francis laughed, waving her off. "I was only joking, Amélie. Joking." He chuckled, obviously not understanding a woman's feelings. Amelia walked away, not responding to his comment. She walked up and stood right next to her father, who seemed enthralled with the conversation he was having with the King of Diamonds. It took him a moment to realize she was there. As soon as he saw her, he excused himself from his conversation and smiled to his precious daughter.
"My dear Amelia," He said lovingly, pulling her into a hug and kissing her forehead. Amelia smiled while in his arms, hugging him in return. He pulled Amelia back and placed his hands on her arms. "Are you enjoying yourself tonight? All of your hard work has paid off." He chuckled with a booming voice, something he had developed while spending 20 years on the throne.
Amelia nodded in response, still a bit shaken up at what Francis had said. She knew he was joking, yet he sounded so serious. Besides, if they did marry, it would be impossible for him to live with her in Spades while being the King of Diamonds. Amelia didn't even like him that way.
Amelia's father began to look his daughter up and down, his face having a smile of satisfaction plastered on it. "I'm so proud of you, my daughter." He told her quietly, kissing her forehead.
Amelia forced a smile, though her face made her feelings clear. She was nervous. She had been nervous since she left the throne room that morning. She reached for her father's hand, taking it and wrapping her father's large fingers around her own delicate ones. Her father had encouraged her every step of the way. He always told her that he always dreamed of having a daughter as wonderful as her. She had to show him she was worthy of being called just that—wonderful.
Her father smiled, letting go of Amelia's hand. "There's someone I would like you to meet. Wait here, alright?"
Amelia stood there, watching her father walk into the crowd. Her mother stood at her own seat, continuing to talk to some other officials. Amelia thought of where Alfred could be. He was probably keeping watch for any trespassers that may have snuck their way into the party. He was busy with his duty, so she couldn't bother him. The last person she wanted to talk to Francis, who moved on to another young woman, being his usual self. Amelia looked around, slowly realizing something important. She didn't know anyone. She had met the other monarchs before when they visited, but she wasn't able to talk to them naturally. Her mother was holding a simple conversation, talking about everything but royal duties. Her father had made his way into the crowd, saying hello to people as he walked by. She couldn't put the name to the faces of the people she had met earlier. What was she going to do?
After a moment, the king returned, with a young man following behind him. She didn't recognize the uniform he wore. It wasn't one of a knight of Spades. He looked too meak to be a knight. He was tall and slender, but still had meat on his bones. His hair was a light blonde, which was something common in the northern part of Spades. With the lighting in the room, his hair was barely visible. He walked with a very proper demeanor, even though no one was paying attention to him. The most notable feature about him was his large, bushy eyebrows. They stood out on his face, but seemed so natural on him. His cheeks were brushed with a light dusting of freckles, barely visible under the lights. He seemed so mysterious and proper. She had never met anyone who carried such an air. She wanted to know more about the young man coming up to her.
Amelia's father stepped aside, pointing to the young man. "Amelia, this is Arthur. Arthur's family owns the large foresting company in Boreas." He chuckled, letting Arthur step forward and bow before her.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, your majesty." His voice was gentle. It reminded her of her brother. It felt raspy but reliable. When he opened his eyes after his greeting, Amelia was surprised. His eyes sparkled under the lights. They were a vibrant green, almost looking like a gemstone. Matched against his pale skin, they were a beacon of light.
Amelia was a bit flustered about what to say. He wasn't as attractive as Francis, but he wasn't bad looking either. She was interested in him, wanting to know everything about him. "The same goes to you, Arthur." She said quietly, curtseying for him. She just had to be natural. He was a man. He seemed as normal as can be, but he had this aura of mystery surrounding him. "And please, call me Amelia." She said with a smile.
Amelia's father nodded. "I'll leave the two of you be. Enjoy yourselves." He said before walking back into the crowd. Arthur turned to watch him go, then reverting his attention back to Amelia. What was he supposed to do? Just as people had said, the princess was absolutely beautiful. She sparkled in the light, even with the copious amount of jewelry she wore. Her eyes were the color of the large, vast sky. She was gorgeous. And they were alone. He took a deep breath.
"Would you like to go… somewhere less crowded?" he scratched the back of his head, trying to hide his blushing cheeks. She was a princess! How could he not be nervous?
Amelia couldn't believe what he had asked. She didn't want anything else more. The room was getting warmer as more people came. Plus, it would be alright if they snuck away for a few moments to get some fresh air. She nodded. "That would be fine."
Arthur looked up and smiled, offering her his hand. He had to be a gentleman, after all. Amelia took his hand, and he led her out of the ballroom. They made their way to an open balcony close to the ballroom. The music could still be heard, and the voices of the guest lingered. The summer night air was cooling. The sky was filled with stars, shimmering and sparkling like diamonds. The landscape was lit up with lanterns and lights, and the cheers of the citizens were still continuing on. Arthur let go of Amelia's hand. Amelia took a step forward, taking a deep breath. This felt great. There were rarely moments where she felt she could relax like this. She slipped her feet out of her shoes, letting the cold stone cool her warm, aching feet. She wanted to sit on the balcony and let the light breeze roll across her skin. She felt normal for just a moment. She was in a bit of peace and quiet. Her bad thoughts, which had been lurking in the back of her head, began to fade. It felt amazing.
Arthur stood nearby, checking his watch. The guests would be wondering where Amelia had run off to if she was out any longer. He looked back up at Amelia, about ready to speak. But, he was blown away. Silhouetted in the moonlight, Amelia stood with a smile on her face. She looked to peaceful and relaxed. The sequins on her dress sparkled in the moonlight. He was mesmerized. For a princess, she was absolutely gorgeous. Anybody would admire her.
Amelia sighed, putting her hands to her side and walking towards the edge of the balcony. She placed her hands on the concrete, then put her head down on the ledge and closed her eyes. "I wish I was normal…" She said quietly as she opened her eyes to the sparkling city below. Everyone seemed so happy this young monarch and couldn't wait for her to take the throne. As fun as it is, there hasn't been a day that has passed that the princess wished she was just normal. No big parties, extravagant dresses, and long lessons. Just a simple life.
Arthur watched from afar, feeling somewhat sorry for the princess. She looked so tired and lonely while standing in the moonlight. Though she had all these people here, celebrating her coming of age, it was as if she stood alone in the spotlight. She was isolated from everyone else. No one could understand how she felt even if they tried to talk to her. He took a deep breath, and then walked up next to her.
"The stars are beautiful tonight." He said quietly, turning around and leaning against the balcony. Amelia lifted her head and nodded. She had a sad look on her face. His guess was right. She was lonely. He reassured himself before speaking.
"I've never been the one in the spotlight," He began, hoping he would be able to help her, "I'm the fifth child of six children. My elder siblings were always given a responsibility, leaving me to myself." He stopped speaking, looking up at the stars. "I always spoke to the stars as if they were my friends. I treated each star as someone cheering me on and as someone who understood the pain of being alone." He looked at Amelia, who had stood straight up and began to look at the stars as well.
"Stars connect us to the people," Amelia began, reaching her hand out, "You can seem them clearly and learn about each and every one of them, but no matter how hard you try, you can't seem to reach them." She squeezed her open palm into a fist, bringing it back down to rest on the balcony.
Arthur took a moment to think about that. He would never understand what it was like being royalty. But, under this starlight, he didn't see Amelia like a princess, ready to take on the world. She looked like a lost little girl, confused on how to play her cards. He placed his hand on hers, looking her in the eyes.
"Instead of trying to reach the stars, fly up to them and stand next to them." He said, even though he didn't know what it meant, "The stars are reaching for you too, even though you may not realize it."
Amelia looked at his hand, before pulling it away. He seemed like… he was treating her normally. Usually someone would try to tell her how she was the stars, and the people were reaching for her. No one ever agreed with her. She closed her eyes, feeling tears start to fall down her cheek. She couldn't cry now. But, the tears kept falling. She wouldn't ever just be a star in the sky. Her cards weren't dealt that way. She would always be the sun, outshining everyone around her. There wasn't one other person like her. She stood there, isolated. And she didn't want that.
She sat there for a while, crying her eyes out. Arthur stood by her side, holding her hand as long as she needed. Her makeup was getting ruined. She looked so hopeless. It was a side people rarely saw. But, he couldn't do anything about it. She had been bottling up her feelings for as long as she could. This would probably be the last time she would be able to let it out.
The party soon ended. Guests left one by one. Amelia had cried herself asleep, her face pressed against the ledge. Arthur wasn't sure what to do. He couldn't just leave her. Something bad might happen. He looked around, seeing someone standing in the arch. The figure walked out, revealing the First knight of Spades, Alfred Jones. He walked towards the two of them, keeping his eye on Arthur. Arthur wasn't very comfortable with his stare. Was he angry?
Alfred walked up to Amelia, picking her up and adjusting her so he was carrying her in his arms. Arthur watched him, glancing down at Amelia's face. Her sleeping face was so peaceful. She really looked normal.
"I knew something was on her mind tonight," Alfred whispered, trying to wipe the snot off Amelia's face, "She looked so pale."
Arthur wasn't sure what to say. It was such an intimate moment. "Make sure you get her into bed soon." He said, before bowing and turning to walk away.
Alfred grinned, looking up at Arthur. "Thank you, Arthur." He told him, "Whatever you did, you surely made her feel better."
Arthur didn't turn around. He walked away, going into the darkness of the hallway.
