It was a beautiful day outside in the land of Viridis, a lush region with many forests and plant life for miles. The many forests have been left untouched to preserve their beauty. It'd be a sin on the minds of any Pokémon who'd dare destroy such a masterpiece of nature.
That, and the trees were believed to have a deep-rooted connection to the spirits of the forest. Any creature who disrupts the natural balance of life would awaken the spirits from their deep slumber and face their untimely wrath.
Though, these were nothing more than entertaining legends passed down from parent to child, as an innocent bedtime story.
However, that doesn't mean the world isn't without its own version of woodland spirits. Especially in a quaint and opulent kingdom known as the Verde Kingdom, the Kingdom of the Forest. While the name itself was uninspiring, it was a wealthy city filled with high class successors of great wealth. Anywhere you look, you're bound to meet someone who's exceptionally rich. It was a staple requirement to reside in such a mighty kingdom.
What does this have to do with woodland spirits? Heh…well, why don't we take a closer look at this marvelous kingdom and see for ourselves?
Starting off was the massive, pearly white wall that enclosed the city, blocking off passage from the outside. The main gates that reside at the four main walls were the only known exits out of the city, not that anyone ever had a reason to leave. The gates led to a dirt road that traverse through the massive forest surrounding it, foliage and life existing all around.
The forest was appropriately dubbed the Forbidden Forest, inspired by the legends passed down over time. These tales inspired the darker side of the forest, where mischievous spirits would haunt from the very top of the trees and capture anyone straying from the main path. While it was only a legend, anyone taking the path made sure to stay on track.
Within the walls was a pristine city that match the pearly complexion of its borders. Many buildings were spread across this wonderful, civilized world. Taking up the streets were the busy Pokémon of the city, going on with their day with heads held high.
One key detail about these Pokémon were their clothes, which seemed to take the appearance of medieval garb, as seen from the proper suit attire adorn by men and the old-style dresses worn by the women. Everyone, young or old, was dressed for perfection. Proper etiquette was another staple to this city. It defined and separated one from the riffraff.
However, no kingdom would be complete without a marvelous castle that stood high above the neighboring buildings. Four large spires at every corner of it, a moat separating the city folk, a large drawbridge, and, of course, stone as white as snow. It served as the home of the royal family, the Penworths.
The Penworth family has been around for many generations, running the kingdom and performing trade with faraway kingdoms. The current king, Roscoe Penworth, kept a tight grip over how the kingdom was ran. For the most part, he was a strong leader that served his kingdom well and made every action necessary to better the lives of his citizens.
Then there was his daughter, who will become the new ruler of the kingdom when she is of age: Princess Melissa Penworth.
Within a bedroom chamber lay a sleeping Buneary, who snoozed quietly under her sheets. Her room consisted of the finest things a princess could ask for: a wardrobe with beautiful dresses, a dresser with a vanity mirror, a collection of jewelry, and much more. She slept in a large bed with a canopy and curtains that gave her some privacy as she slumbered.
However, like all days, her rest must come to an end. The door to her bedroom chamber gently opened and a Chasey walked in. She wore black clothing that resembled something a nun would wear. She pulled the canopy curtains open, slightly rousing the Buneary from her slumber.
"Rise and shine, Princess," the Chansey said firmly, yet with care. She walked up to the window curtains and exposed the dimly lit room to the first rays of sunshine. "We have much to prepare for today."
Melissa sat up in her bed and rubbed her tired eyes. She yawned softly and asked, "Must I wake so early, Nurse Hilda? I am dreadfully tired."
Hilda raised a brow at the Buneary. "Oh? Have you been sleeping well?"
"Merely tired from my father's meeting last night. With the preparations needing to be planned out, he made certain to drive it into my head." She threw the covers off. She was in a white nightgown. She slipped out of bed, still rubbing her eyes.
Hilda smiled kindly. "I can't allow you to sleep, but I will take the liberty of drawing your bath and getting you ready for the day."
Melissa, with her eyes shut, smiled at her caretaker. "Thank you, Nurse Hilda."
"My pleasure, darling."
The period of time spent after waking was Melissa getting cleaned and dressed for the day. She had much to do, but her father's wishes came first. Things have been rather busy with the king preparing for their guests coming soon.
King Roscoe Penworth had excellent business negotiation skills, which he typically used in order to make trades with faraway kingdoms. The kingdoms of Viridis existed outside the Forbidden Forest, which is why they're referred to as the Kingdom of the Forest. Only they had the guts to reside within such a famously haunted forest, though the king didn't believe in such superstitious legends.
Though, the forest was the source of one too many grievances he carries with him.
Regardless, King Roscoe planned to set up an event in discussion with business transactions with the Senbo Kingdom, widely known for their militaristic applications, granting them the title 'Kingdom of the Steel.' A relationship with the kingdom would improve defensive measures for the kingdom.
Her father didn't explain the exact details to her importance in the meeting, but it was best not to question her father. He was a very aggressive man and she wished not to get on his bad side if she were to act up.
For over the next half hour, Melissa was washed and scrubbed down by her nurse before adorning a dress from her wide selection of clothes. She wore a fern green dress that partially covered her feet and with sleeves that went up to her wrists. She sat in front of her mirror as Hilda brushed her fur out.
Of course, the look couldn't be completed without one last trinket. Reaching into a separate jewelry box, she pulled out the only item contained inside: a silver locket, rounded in shape, with the etched image of a tree on the front. She hooked the chain around her neck and let it rest over her chest.
Once she was fully ready, Hilda escorted her out of her chamber and led her through the large hallways. As they walked, they passed by the maids who were taking care of the morning chores. They bowed to the princess as she passed them, leading the Buneary to offer a kind smile with a simple wave to them.
Melissa tried to be friendly with the help, even though she barely knew any of their names. So many Pokémon to greet each day and only a handful really stood out to her. Though, it didn't help that her father made it explicitly clear the maids shouldn't act chummy towards him or his daughter. Melissa wanted to be nice to them, but they wouldn't give her the time of day.
Well, almost all of them.
As they walked, Melissa spotted a familiar maid carting cleaning supplies through the castle. An Audino no more than a year older than her. She wore the standard attire: black maid outfit with the skirt reaching down to her feet and with sleeves, white apron over the outfit, and a white bonnet.
She was minding her own business, focused on getting work done, when she noticed the princess walking about. She smiled, then performed a curtsy. "Good morning, Princess Melissa."
Melissa giggled, then curtsied back. "And good morning to you, Sadie. How are you doing today?"
Sadie rolled her eyes and smirked. "Well, I grabbed a food cart by mistake and nearly used the grepa juice as cleaning solution." She chuckled. "Oh dear, the mess that would have made." Her fellow coworkers could never get over the fact she spoke to royalty so…casually. It was daunting how carefree she acted in front of the princess, and it was working.
Melissa giggled behind her hand. "Oh dear. Did you get any rest last night?"
She shrugged. "Eh, more or less. I had a little trouble getting to bed early." She held her cheek and sighed with a large grin. "I must be tired if I didn't bother snagging all the snacks from the cart." She winked at Melissa and slipped a bundle of nanab berries from her apron. "Guess I'll have to settle for these."
Melissa smirked at the maid. "Sadie, you sly…"
She broke one of them off the stem and waved it to her. "Care for one, Princess?"
She held her hands up. "A kind gesture, but I am afraid I will have to pass. I must meet with my father about the Senbo Kingdom's arrival today."
Sadie groaned. "Spoiled rich people and other royal families to clean up after? My schedule's looking greeeeeat later!" she exclaimed with an exaggerated grin.
Melissa laughed, then curtsied to her. "May fate be on your side, my friend."
She curtsied back. "As for you too, Princess." They parted ways, with the Audino throwing the nanab berry into her mouth and munching on it as she wheeled the cart down the hall.
Melissa and Hilda walked through the castle until they reached the bottom floor, then making their way to the throne room. Melissa narrowed her eyes worriedly, something her attentive nurse picked up on. "Are you nervous about the meeting, Princess?"
She bit her lip. "Sort of…my father has been awfully pushy about joining forces with the Senbo Kingdom."
Hilda rolled her eyes. "I'd imagine. With a strong relationship with the Senbo Kingdom, he could have access to their military technology. The kingdom is fairly advanced."
"Still, is it necessary? When has the kingdom ever been attacked?"
"I believe it is a steady precaution, Princess. Besides, the kingdom has been attacked in more ways than one." She looked down on her. "The king is anxious for a reason. He doesn't want the negotiations to go wrong, especially with…them roaming the streets."
Melissa sighed. "Of course. The Foresters."
The Verde Kingdom suffered from some…unique individuals who've made a habit of sneaking through the heavily guarded kingdom and blending into the streets to steal from the rich and wealthy of their kingdom. They've caused quite the stir, even occasionally putting shops out of business. The Foresters mainly targeted Verde Kingdom, though they have been known to rob from other kingdoms that existed outside the forest.
There had to be a step up in security around the walls. All knights guarded every possible location. Every possible blind spot. The king wanted to be extra sure that no one can get into the kingdom without his say. Should there be anyone not among royalty or wearing the signature uniform of the Foresters, they'll be attacked swiftly.
Her father harbored great hatred for them due to their crimes, though Melissa was indifferent about them. Granted, she was well aware of the trouble they were causing, but she wasn't as spiteful as her father. The worst she would probably do was have them thrown into the dungeon.
Melissa folded her hands together. "I sure hope today goes well. I wish not to displease Father."
Hilda smiled at her. "You won't need to do much, Princess. Showing up is the only thing required. After that, we will be heading off to complete your lessons."
Melissa sighed. Of course, how could she forget those? Her father made it abundantly clear that he wanted her to take over the throne one day with utmost marks. Education, diplomatic understanding, and various other lessons she must complete. She was nearing the age of eighteen and there will be a time where she will ascend to the throne.
The lessons, however, were a pain for the Buneary princess. Frankly, she rarely had time to herself with how jampacked her schedule is every day. At least a small portion of her Sundays allowed her time to breathe, for what it was worth. There were also holidays where she had a whole day off from her work, but that won't come for quite some time.
The throne room came within sight. Hilda opened the doors and allowed Melissa to enter while she would remain standing and waiting. The throne room was a long room decorated in the finest of tapestries and marble pillars. In the center of the room was a long table, set up for the king's court and any visiting kings or important guests.
At the end of the room was the throne. A golden chair with red velvet cushions. Beside it was a smaller version, Melissa's side throne. Hanging over the thrones was another tapestry, baring the family crest. A mighty shield wrapped in ivy, split down the middle. One side representing charity through riches, the other representing pride and glory of their family through the crown.
Melissa walked around the court table and made her way to her father, King Roscoe. A Lopunny looking to be in his early fifties. The fluff on his long ears and wrists were curled, displaying his elegant grooming care. He wore a white tunic and gray shirt under his large blue robe, made from material similar in softness to his throne, with white fluff along the edges, and gray pants. Atop his head was his golden crown, decorated in red gemstones with a large green one in the center.
Roscoe straightened his posture upon acknowledging his daughter's presence. "Melissa."
Melissa curtsied to the king. "Father."
"On time as usual." He stood up. "Preparations for the royal family of Senbo's arrival must go without issue. They will be arriving fairly soon. I expect you to set a good example for our family name. These delegations will help refine our military might, as well as our appeal to the neighboring kingdoms."
Melissa nodded. "Yes, Father. An alliance with the Senbo Kingdom will guarantee our upmost protection in the event of a possible war."
Roscoe walked around her. "Trading our resources for their military expertise and weaponry will help the Verde Kingdom's growth. That is why we must make them feel welcomed to our kingdom before the demands and treaty is made."
Melissa nodded. "Of course, Father. Although, I do not see my overall use in the negotiations. Surely you have a handle on things."
Roscoe stroked at the tuff of fur under his chin. "I need you for something a bit more important than negotiations. We need to build a strong relation with them as individuals. That is why I need you to take part in getting to know their king's heir."
Melissa blinked. "Heir?" There was no talk of spending time with the heir.
"Prince Erasmus, the eldest son of King Gilbert Talbot. While I deal with greeting our guests and showing them around, you will be spending time with his son."
"But I still have classes with my tutor," Melissa brought up.
"You will go to your private sessions later today as per normal. Tomorrow, however, I have instructed your tutor to take the day off. You will be free for the rest of your Thursday."
Melissa's eyes widened in disbelief. Aside from holidays, she was never given a day off from her lessons. Her father really wanted negotiations to go well and he was trusting her to earn the respect of the prince. That shouldn't be too hard. It sounded too simple. But who was she to complain over a day off?
Retaining composure and hiding the glee she felt inside, she curtsied in response. "As you wish, Father. I will see to making good relations with Prince Erasmus."
Roscoe closed his eyes. "Good. Now, go to the dining hall. Your breakfast will be served soon." He started walking away.
"And where are you off to, Father?" Melissa asked curiously.
"I must speak with Matthias and tell him to ready the knights for King Gilbert's arrival. Presentation is everything." He let himself out of the throne room, leaving Melissa to herself.
She looked around quietly to confirm she was alone, then broke out into a wide grin. "Yes!" She jumped and tapped her heels together. "No lessons tomorrow! How exciting!"
She heard a sudden giggling and landed on her feet. Her face turned bright red as Hilda watched her through the crack of the double doors. Upon noticing she was caught, she opened them and laughed with more mirth. "Not a very ladylike response, Princess."
Melissa hid her face behind her ears in embarrassment. "S-Silence…"
A few hours into the day, after dining on her freshly made breakfast made by the finest cooks, the royal Buneary was now dealing with her tutoring sessions. Melissa had her face buried in her book while her tutor, a Nidoking, wrote on the provided chalkboard. He wore an olive-green suit and a pair of spectacles over his snout.
The book they were covering was titled 'The Inherited Will of Blood.' It was a strange title, at least to Melissa. Maybe it didn't help the fact that she wasn't particularly fond of fantastical fiction. It pained her to have to read over some of the absurd feats demonstrated by the protagonist.
How in Virdis does a Pawniard split a mountain with a simple kick? I would find that a tad more believable if he were a Bisharp, but even then…! She groaned inwardly and covered her face. Why could we not read a historical text about an ACTUAL warrior of legend? Their feats are actually DOCUMENTED-!
"Princess?" Melissa's head shot up as she drew her tutor's attention. Apparently, while she was having her inner rant, she was unwillingly kicking her chair. "All is well, I hope?" he asked with a smirk.
She blushed in embarrassment and covered her face. "Um…continue with your lesson, Theobald. Do not mind me."
"Then perhaps you can refresh my memory. What chapter and page were we just discussing?"
"Chapter seventeen, page three-hundred and six." Just because she was dreading the assignment didn't mean she wasn't paying attention.
Theobald laughed. "Good, good." He returned to the chalkboard and drew up a diagram. "From what we can make of the hero's journey, a rite of passage must be taken. These characteristics are based off mighty feats of strength in early texts, though there come feats of the mind. Rather than testing the upper limits of one's courage and strength, the book entails the…hidden power of one's will."
Melissa tilted her head. "Forgive me, but I am still lost on that matter. Will being mightier than strength?"
"Yes. In times of need, will can become far superior than the typical level of strength we see in our world. Or at least, that's what's being demonstrated through the book."
The royal Buneary set her book down. "I find that quite ridiculous. From how Father describes it, strength is necessary for battle. A fierce army made up of only the strongest warriors stand a chance of succession."
Her tutor raised a brow. "Oh? So, you see no point to will?"
"Not necessarily. The motivation for battle is always important in any given situation, but it is hardly ever going to overpower strength itself. It is just not plausible."
Her tutor chuckled and pushed up his spectacles. "Open-mindedness would do you some good, Princess."
She rolled her eyes and held up the book. "This is nothing more than nonsense. How unbelievable."
He scratched his chin. "I assume the Pawniard defeating the mighty Regigigas would be the top of your list of impossibilities, yes?"
"Then please explain, Theobald, how will could surpass pure strength," Melissa demanded, raising an indignant brow at him.
Theobald chuckled and tapped his chin with his chalk. "Now there's a question. How I enjoy your stubbornness and naïve innocence."
Melissa pouted. "Heeeyyy…"
"Strength…what is strength? Is it just one's ability to lift the heaviest object? Or is it your adeptness in battle? Perhaps it is courage. Perhaps it is leadership. I'd dare say those with great strength could rival mortal Pokémon like you and I. A strong leader to protect everyone.
"But all that strength means nothing…if you can't find the strength to use it." Theobald erased the board. "Fear, doubt, discouragement…all weaknesses of strength. It takes a lot of force to bring one man down, but perhaps targeting where it hurts matters most. Find the right weak spot and you're down for good."
Melissa tilted her head. "And will…?"
Theobald tapped her on the nose. "Now that…is where will comes in. Will itself…is the individual's inner strength. Not physical, nor strictly mental…but perhaps it is simply an understanding of what makes you strong. Not how, but why. All the strength in the world can't beat someone if they have the will to survive. More often than not, they can outlast the strong and take hold the victory."
Melissa scratched her head. "So…just…never giving up?"
"A broad sense of the word, but hardly anything I can explain through words alone." He smiled over his shoulder. "You'd be surprised, Princess. I've seen great wonders in the world from those of vast will. You'd never believe what can be accomplished when you develop an inner self-control."
"Have you met those with great will?" she asked curiously.
"Not to the extent of the hero of our book, but I have met many with a great sense of willpower. There are some mysteries in our little world that have yet to be fully explored. Far beyond my knowledge, but I've learned a thing or two in my travels."
The princess smiled and asked, "Would you say I have great will, Theobald?"
That…caused the Nidoking to freeze up and drop his piece of chalk. "Erm…well, Princess…"
Melissa pouted, catching on immediately to his nervousness. "Theobald…" she started warningly.
"Ahem…which answer is least likely to get me thrown into the dungeon?" he asked jokingly.
"Are you saying I do not possess great will?!" she shouted.
Theobald sighed and scratched behind his head. "Princess, while I wouldn't necessarily call you weak, in mind at least, you aren't the epitome of great will. You are very vocal and opiniated, as I've seen from our sessions, but your nurse has told me time and time again of your timidity and unwillingness for battle and…other things."
"I-I am not that timid…" Melissa argued.
"No, not with me, your father, or any of your servants in formal settings, but not much else. With your position as the princess, you don't get much social interaction outside the castle, not even that often with other royals."
"Excuse me, dear Theobald, but I have friends!" Melissa shouted. "There is Hilda and…um, definitely Sadie, and…you?" Her eyes widened, realizing she didn't have that many people she would call a 'friend.' Would the royal cook count as one?
Theobald sighed. "However, will isn't just extroverted behavior. It's ambition, resolve, self-control. Be honest with me, Princess, do any of these sound like you?"
Melissa rubbed the back of her head. "Well…maybe my ambition to be a good ruler one day?"
The Nidoking decided not to push further and nodded. "I suppose that's one way of looking at it. If it makes you feel better, I'd say you have an average willpower just like anyone else."
"Is…willpower measurable or something?"
"Again, not something I can say, more so show." He smirked. "Maybe in time, you'll see what I mean and find out what it means to give it your all. If you can power through at your weakest moment, then perhaps that's a sign of a strong will."
Melissa sighed and leaned back into her chair. "I will take what I can get."
"Then shall we continue with the analysis?" Melissa went to answer when they heard a knock on the door. "Enter."
Hilda stepped in and curtsied to the Nidoking. "Greetings, Theobald."
"Ms. Hilda," he acknowledged with a bow. "To what do we owe your presence?"
She faced her charge and nodded at her. "I was just given word from the king's messenger that the Talbot family of the Senbo Kingdom has made it through the Forbidden Forest."
Melissa smiled. "Oh, how wonderful."
Theobald sighed. "And thank goodness. I was worried the Foresters may have caused trouble with their arrival."
"King Penworth would be most upset if those mischievous forest spirits started up a mess." Hilda sighed. "Their last raid on the kingdom costed many valuables."
Melissa slid out of her chair. "Father did inform them to bring a small group of knights with them in case of such action. I am sure we have nothing to worry about with the royal family's stay."
Hilda smiled. "It seems you're taking on the right attitude to become the next ruler of the kingdom."
"Following my father's wishes as best I can…" She sighed drearily. "Even if it is most tiring…I do so need this day off tomorrow, even if it is to spend time with a visiting prince." She waved to her tutor with a kind smile. "Take care, Theobald."
He bowed. "And to you as well, Princess."
Hilda led Melissa down the halls, where they will meet with the king for the near arrival of the royal family. Hilda glanced down at her charge with a playful look. "As your father advised, Princess, you must make a good impression on this young man. Every bit of support counts."
Melissa nodded. "I understand, Nurse. I have dealt with many a visitor for father."
Hilda chuckled. "Not entirely what I meant." Melissa raised a brow at her. "You are of age now, my dear. Very soon, you will be courted by a suitable suitor for your hand in marriage. Perhaps Prince Erasmus is the one to be."
The idea made Melissa groan. "Pardon my inappropriate reaction, but I have no interest in marriage just yet."
"I've heard great things about Prince Erasmus."
Melissa sighed. "I am sure you have, Nurse, but I have made it clear with Father that I take no desire in courtship yet. The many other suitors he tried to set me up with were far from my expectations. Hardly any a man I would wish to spend the rest of my days with."
"But Princess, soon you would need an heir to the throne if you wish for the kingdom to continue."
"A notion I am very aware of, but I would rather not be forced into that position." Melissa sighed. "Father makes me do so much already, what with his near unreasonable standards. Everyday of my life feels like the next step to absolute perfection. I would never say it to his face, but it drives me mad."
"The responsibilities you carry are greater than most everyday tasks," Hilda reminded. "You have a lot to uphold if you wish to become Queen."
"My own concern lies in surviving until my ascension to the throne." Melissa waved her hand around. "Father can be so overbearing." She held her head. "For once, I wish I could be allowed more liberties and freedoms. My studies are one thing and learning the role is another, but to what end? Shall I sacrifice my time to reach ultimate perfection? That is how I feel with his ways."
Hilda giggled behind her hand. "Perhaps your father values your education."
She held her head and sighed. "My education is important to be a ruler, but Father is not the shining example." She reached up to the ceiling dramatically. "Why must I learn advanced mathematics when I would have advisors to settle the problem? Or analyze the ridiculous concept of will over strength?"
Hilda smiled and looked ahead after they turned a corner. "Got into another one of your silly debates with Theobald, I see."
"There is a point where fantastical literature goes too far with the fantastic nature. Why, just two weeks ago, he had me analyze the themes of the unknown and its grip on our minds for we cannot comprehend what we cannot observe. How can I be scared of something if I cannot see it?"
"The same can be said the other way. Have you ever experienced a fear of the dark, Princess?"
"Of course not. Why should I be scared knowing I am protected by my guards?"
"A fair point, I suppose." Hilda chuckled. "Common young men and women learn the same things you do. They, too, must learn the information they would have no use for. At the very least, your father is preparing you for the future."
Melissa sighed and let her ears flop down against the sides of her head. "Yes, but I may not make it to the throne before I have fully collapsed under the stress."
"At least keep your energy until you've been introduced to the prince. Your father is counting on you to make negotiations go well."
Melissa huffed, then put on her best smile. "Yes, of course. I shall not disappoint Father."
They finally arrived outside the castle and spotted the Lopunny king standing beside his knights. By his side was a knight in black armor. Lower to the ground, as he was squatting and standing on his knuckles, with a noticeable heat coming off the top of his helmet.
Roscoe glanced over his shoulder and acknowledged his daughter's presence. "Just in time. King Gilbert will be arriving any second." Melissa stood by his side and folded her hands over waist. "Remember, we are their hosts. Do not ruin this for me."
Melissa nodded. "You have nothing to worry about, Father," she assured just as a carriage in the distance came into view.
"I know."
The pearly white carriage closed in on the castle, escorted by a five-man group of knights in crimson armor, with blue plumage adorn on the helmets. They road atop Rapidash while the carriage was pulled by two Tauros. The carriage was being driven by the coachman, a Simisear dressed in a top hat and black coat.
The carriage pulled up to the small party and stopped. The Simisear hopped from his seat and stepped up to the door. He bowed to the royal family, then opened the carriage. The first to step out from the carriage was a Houndoom, dressed in the finest threads. A black cloak over his body, but still revealing his red dress shirt and black pants. His cloak adorned the family crest: a hammer surrounded in a ring of bayonets.
Roscoe held his head up, then bowed to the Houndoom. "King Gilbert…thank you for accepting my invitation. We graciously awaited your arrival."
Gilbert closed his eyes and returned the greeting with a flick of his cloak. "And we are most humbled by your request, King Roscoe." He settled his eyes on Melissa, who did her best not to shy away and retain proper posture. "And this must be Princess Melissa."
She gulped, feeling her nerves getting to her, but worked the nerve to curtsey in his presence. "It is an honor to meet you, King Gilbert. We hope you are welcomed into our kingdom."
He nodded. "Indeed. We hope for a most promising time." He turned to the carriage as a Purugly stepped off. "This is my wife, Queen Constance."
The Purugly wore a red dress, with sleeves along her forelegs and a large skirt that hid her hindlegs. She wore a golden necklace adorned with jewels around her neck. She bowed to the king and princess respectfully. "I am honored. I have heard many things about the Verde Kingdom's economic success over the years. You have built up quite the kingdom, King Roscoe."
Roscoe closed his eyes. "Doing as I can for all of the Verde Kingdom." He narrowed his eyes at the carriage. "And your eldest…?"
Gilbert chuckled to himself. "Ah yes, of course." He turned to the carriage. "Erasmus!"
A third and final figure stepped from the carriage. A Glameow who walked in elegant, prideful struts. Royal blue dress jacket, lined in golden thread, with lustrous white trousers. His fur was neatly and, from Melissa's keen eyes, meticulously groomed to perfection. It looked like he spent hours getting his fur so perfectly smooth and ordered. The fluff at the end of his tail was neatly curled, similar to her father's own fluff.
One thing she took notice of was how he presented himself. Head held high, the strut in his walk, and the air of royalty he seemed to give off. She hoped not to take that as a bad sign.
Gilbert gestured to the Glameow. "Prince Erasmus, my eldest son and heir to the Senbo Kingdom."
Erasmus bowed to the royal family. "Greetings, King Roscoe, it is an honor for you to be in my presence."
Melissa raised her brow. Uh…did I hear that right?
A subtle eyeroll came from her father, but he kept professional stature. "An honor, indeed. This is my daughter, Princess Melissa."
Erasmus faced the Buneary, who froze up at his piercing stare. Oh boy. She gulped and curtsied. "Welcome to the Verde Kingdom, Prince Erasmus. I hope we will make good relations with each other."
Her eyes widened as he took her hand in his paw. "Ah, Princess…the rumors were true. A beauty, you truly are. I dare say you must be the most beautiful in all of your kingdom." He kissed her hand as a show of respect. "I am indeed honored."
She definitely wasn't expecting such a forward greeting. "Um…t-thank you, Prince Erasmus. I appreciate your kind-"
He then pulled away and held his paw to his forehead. "Your beauty certainly rivals many, but only comes second to the true peak of physical attraction of this land! That would be…" He held his chin and winked. "Me."
Melissa blinked slowly. "…ah…" A simple reaction on the outside, but she was absolutely worried on the inside. Oh no…I have to spend the entire day tomorrow with this pompous prince?!
However, she reigned in her nerves and let out a deep breath of self-reassurance. Focus, Melissa. Father is trusting you to make good on kingdom relations. Perhaps Erasmus is not as bad as he lets on.
Roscoe faced Gilbert and asked, "I assume the rest of your sons are back in your kingdom?"
Gilbert nodded. "My three other boys and young daughter. They have not been groomed yet to be proper rulers like Erasmus, so they had to stay behind for extra lessons with their royal tutor."
"A shame. I would have loved to meet the rest of your successors to the Senbo throne." Roscoe turned the visiting family's attention to the black armored knight. "This is the head of my knights, Sir Matthias. He was most looking forward to your visit."
The black knight removed his helmet, revealing himself as an Infernape. He bowed to the royal family. "I've heard much of the military might you enforce in the Senbo Kingdom. I'd say I've trained a fine unit of knights, but would most benefit from the militaristic advantages of your forces."
Gilbert smirked. "Heh…we will see. I have heard much about you, Black Knight of the Forest."
Roscoe bowed. "Shall I show you inside? Dinner will be served in just a couple hours. The grand tour of my castle and where you three shall be retiring for the night."
"I accept your offer. Lead the way."
Roscoe led the group into the castle, showing them around the main rooms of importance. Melissa was keeping her eyes on Erasmus, who seemed to be off in his own little world. She kept a bit of distance between them, still put off by his attitude. She sighed to herself.
He…might not be that bad, just keep telling yourself that.
Roscoe showed them to the dining hall, the main ballroom where they'll be hosting a party for the negotiations, the castle library, and many other important rooms on the first floor. Last on their tour of the first floor was the garden.
Roscoe led them outside and showed them around the hedge sculptures cut into his image. "As the Kingdom of the Forest, we keep up top priority in garden care. Royal gardeners of great skill keep everything in tiptop shape."
Constance seemed impressed. "As expected from the kingdom of the Forbidden Forest." She wandered up to a rose bush and smelled the aromatic roses. "The peaceful atmosphere is wonderful. The Senbo Kingdom is always bustling with construction. New defenses or new buildings in the works."
Gilbert raised his brow with a light grin. "Do not get any ideas, my dear. I would not want you abandoning my side."
Constance stepped up and held his cheek. "Perish the thought, my darling. I would never leave you." She smirked. "Though, I would appreciate a garden in our castle."
"I will make a note." Gilbert faced Roscoe. "You have a mighty castle, Roscoe. There are a few areas I would recommend need extra security."
Roscoe narrowed his eyes. "We would need improved defensive measures."
"Though, I do see your number of knights have increased in duty. From what I have heard, you do not have these many knights on guard duty."
Roscoe crossed his arms. "It is a special day. They were assigned specifically to ensure our safety during your stay."
Gilbert narrowed his eyes seriously. "Our safety, you say?" He growled under his breath. "I assume you are referring to those forest spirits, the Foresters?"
Roscoe nodded. "I see they have caused their fair bit of trouble in your kingdom."
"Many of my subjects have come up to me, infuriated by their rampant thieving. It seemed to have increase in activity when our visit was first announced."
"Hmm…" Roscoe folded his arms behind his back. "Perhaps this is not the time and place for such talk. I do not want your first day in my kingdom brought down with misery." He glared. "Besides, we will deal with those Foresters soon enough…"
Gilbert nodded. "I look forward to it."
Roscoe gestured to the castle. "Perhaps it is time we show you to your rooms."
Erasmus ran his paw through his fur. "Oh, wonderful! I sure hope the mirrors capture my radiant charm!" He sighed sadly. "Such a shame, though, for no mirror could ever replicate my perfection!"
Melissa took another few paces away from the Glameow. Are they sure they did not name him 'Narcissus?'
Roscoe guided them back into the castle. "This way, this way."
Melissa lagged behind a bit, so Hilda slowed up to walk by her side. "Well, I see you two are getting along nicely," Hilda joked.
"Oh hush…" Melissa grumbled.
"Remember, Princess: presentation. You made a big deal of not disappointing your father."
Melissa sighed. "I am…just hoping Erasmus is not as vain as he lets on. Perhaps a hidden scholar, a renowned poet, a gracious musician…" She groaned and held her head. "Or, dare I say, one of those knaves who studies in the occult. I would honestly prefer that over this."
Hilda giggled behind her hand, then patted the Buneary's head. "Have patience, Princess. It is only for a few days. Once the treaty is made, you won't be forced to spend time with him again."
Melissa sighed. "May Uxie grant thy wisdom of truth, my faithful nurse…"
The group entered through the castle. Turning focus away from them, up above on the upper levels of the castle, a Cutiefly fluttered straight towards an open window. She wore a bandana around her body, a mix in shades of green, like camouflage. She kept low as she closed in before perching atop the windowsill.
Cutiefly tilted her head and chirped, "Well?"
A figure quietly stepped forward, draped in a cloak. They handed off a letter to the small bee. "I got all the details right here. Thorough investigation of when and where the knights are stationed. Senbo brought their own knights, as well. A small miscalculation on my part."
Cutiefly tucked the letter behind her bandana. "Nothing we can't plan around. Jason has been planning this raid for weeks. Wouldn't want to quit with a slight increase in numbers."
The hidden figure nodded. "Right…I should get back to my post. I'll keep in touch." They shuffled away, out of sight.
The Cutiefly buzzed her wings, then took off through the air once more, zipping past vigilant eyes and keeping a low profile.