Mateo couldn't remember the last time he'd ever felt so nervous. Running a hand through his untidy curls as he paced the ballroom antechamber, he noticed every little detail around him. Fabric swished–– silk brushing together as he moved. The windowless walls of the tiny antechamber were draped with rich, jewel toned fabrics and his booted feet sank a little into the plush rug that spanned the width and length of the room. Everything around him–– from his own attire to the decor to the beautiful, highly amused princess standing just out of the path of his pacing–– shouted royalty, while he felt out of place in his own skin.

He could scarcely believe that he was about to do what he was about to do–– in a matter of minutes Mateo would be officially announced to the court as Elena's betrothed. He and Elena were waiting for Armando to make the royal proclamation before they made their grand entrance and were presented for the first time as a betrothed couple for the approval of the court.

Elena stood to the side, arms crossed as she quirked an amused eyebrow, watching her beloved's frenzied pacing. It took all of her self control to not laugh aloud at the sight. Deciding the frenzy had gone on long enough, she stepped forward and laid a hand on his shoulder, her fingers brushing the deep green satin of the formal jacket he had donned for the occasion.

"Mateo, please. Stop…" she murmured soothingly.

At her touch, Mateo halted and took a deep, shuddering breath. Turning, he faced Elena and she could see the fear burning in his eyes. Furrowing her eyebrows in confusion, she said, "What's going on, Mateo? You've attended court functions as a member of my inner circle before, this isn't anything new to you."

Blushing, his eyes darted to the floor, as he stammered, "I– it's nothing. I'm fine."

Shooting him a disbelieving look, Elena pursed her lips. "Somehow, I find that hard to believe, what with the obvious panic in your eye and the fact that you've nearly worn a path in the carpet with the relentless pacing. Come on Mateo, we're going to be married. We shouldn't lie to each other–– no matter how silly or insignificant the detail seems."

His posture deflated as he sighed, "I know. You're right, Elena. It's just–– that–– well, I've been the royal wizard for years now and have attended a bunch of these things at your side, but it's always been as a part of your inner circle–– it's never been me. Alone. At the center of everything."

Smirking, Elena said, "Aside from the night you were appointed royal wizard, of course."

Mateo covered his face with his hands and closed his eyes as if trying to erase the memory, shuddering as he said, "Don't remind me!"

"But that night turned out well, in spite of your worries. You single handedly defeated an evil wizard and saved us all." She stepped closer and slid her arms around his waist, brushing a soft kiss against his lips. Pulling back, she frowned slightly as she noticed that the kiss hadn't distracted him at all–– he was still looking around anxiously–– though he did manage to return her embrace.

"There's more to this than stage fright, isn't there?" she asked shrewdly.

Mateo swallowed hard and nodded.

"What is it, mi querido? Tell me so I can help. We're a team, remember?"

"Ok–– it's–– I guess– what I'm really worried about is that the court won't approve of me. I'm afraid that we're going to walk out there and they are going to reject our betrothal––"

Elena snorted. "There is no way that is going to happen. The call for the court's approval is just a tradition. It's a technicality, for show. You know, like that part in the wedding ceremony when the officiant asks for objections? No one ever objects except in those ridiculous dramatic romance novels. My court would never go against my wishes and they have absolutely no reason to. You are who I want. Who I've decided is the best person in the entire world to help me defend and protect our kingdom. The grand council has approved of you and even Esteban has come around and approves of you–– he agrees with me that you are a hero to us all and that you are my perfect match. I think he also hopes that your calm personality will cool my hot head," Elena laughed merrily at the memory of her cousin's words before continuing, "Truly, there's nothing to worry about. The rest of the kingdom will follow suit."

"But– they're probably expecting you to marry another royal. Or at least a noble! I'm a nobody. I–"

Eyes flashing, Elena stopped him with a finger pressed to his lips. "Stop, right there. We have been over this. You, mi querido, are–"

Her words were cut off as the door opened and Luisa poked her head in, grinning at the couple as she hissed, "It's time! Get ready, you two!"

Elena nodded to her grandmother and turned back to Mateo, smiling softly as she reached up to straighten his tie. "We'll talk about this later, everything will be fine. Trust me!"

Mateo searched her face intently for any hint of doubt or regret and said quietly, "Are you sure about this?"

Cupping his face in her hands, Elena smirked, raising a confident eyebrow as she leaned towards him and said, "Trust me, I know exactly what I am doing." She kissed him full on the mouth before pulling back with a grin and taking his elbow.

"Come on, my future prince. Let's go and meet our court."

–––––

" ––hereby making the official declaration of the betrothal of our beloved Crown Princess Elena Castillo Flores to her intended, Mateo de Alva, Royal Wizard of Avalor!"

As they stood in the doorway of the antechamber listening to the murmurs and the polite applause sounding throughout the ballroom, Mateo glanced sidelong at Elena, grinning crookedly.

Are you ready?

She responded by flashing his favorite dazzling smile.

Let's do this!

She stepped out into the light of the ballroom, and Mateo–– taking his lead from her–– took a calming breath as he followed at her side.

As the couple passed through the crowd, Mateo felt his confidence growing. In spite of his previous fears, this felt right. He felt as if he was exactly where he was supposed to be. Nothing had changed aside from the fact that he had the love of his life on his arm–– who just happened to be the crown princess of Avalor. Having her at his side made the young wizard feel taller–– stronger and more capable somehow. It was just the effect she had on him–– she was his perfect match in every way.

Elena was glowing with pride–– literally. Warmth flooded Mateo's heart as he noticed the subtle luminescence radiating from her skin–– understanding that she was so entirely happy and that he was the source of that happiness. He knew in that moment how completely committed she was to her choice to marry him. Not only that, but she was not even remotely ashamed to be announcing her engagement to her royal wizard to every noble and royal ally in and around Avalor. The glow was her magic's physical response to strong positive emotions. He smiled as he remembered another time she'd glowed like that–– at the royal ball where she'd decided to toss aside tradition and dance with Mateo all night–– the night that they–– together–– had made the choice that changed everything.

The grand council, Isabel, Gabe and Rafa waited upon the raised dais at the front of the room watching the approaching couple. Luisa and Rafa clung to each other, both crying happy tears at their children's joy. Francisco, as always, looked dignified though his eyes betrayed the pride and happiness he felt at seeing his granddaughter taking this next step in her life. Esteban watched with his typical superiority mixed with approval and satisfaction. Isabel and Naomi sported matching tear tracks–– the tears flowed freely down their cheeks as they beamed at the approaching couple. Gabe stood tall, like the royal guard that he was, but winked as he flashed a cocky grin.

Mateo and Elena climbed the steps of the dais and paused, facing their family and friends. Luisa stepped forward to wrap Mateo in a warm embrace and said. "Welcome to the family, mijo!"

Smiling, Mateo returned the hug, and replied, "Thanks, Luisa, but I'm not technically part of the family just yet."

She pulled back and eyed him with mock sternness. "Nonsense! Elena has chosen you–– you are her heart, and I know her well enough to know that isn't going to change. As far as I'm concerned, you've been part of the family for years." She smiled and patted his cheek affectionately, and added, "And I insist that you call me abuela from now on, do you understand me?"

Mateo felt his throat tighten as emotion welled up within him at her gesture of complete acceptance, but he managed to laugh as he straightened, saying, "Yes ma'am–– er–– I mean–– yes abuela."

Luisa looked over at Elena and winked. "You've chosen well, mijita."

Grinning, Elena took Mateo's hand, and, squeezing it, said lightly, "Oh, I know, but thanks abuela!" She then pulled Mateo around so that they were facing the watching crowd of nobles and royals.

Mateo had almost forgotten the crowd in his distraction while greeting their family. He swallowed hard, trying to stand tall and look confident next to Elena.

She took his arm and addressed the crowd, "Members of the court–– guests and allies–– thank you for joining me tonight in celebrating my betrothal. I now stand before you to present the one that I have chosen to share my life with–– to partner with in protecting and defending Avalor until death do us part." Elena looked over the crowd of nobles and flashed her most winning smile as she slid an arm around Mateo's shoulders and said brightly, "My betrothed everyone! Mateo de Alva, Royal Wizard of Avalor!"

The nobles and royal guests applauded–– some offered polite applause while others were more enthusiastic. As the applause quieted, Elena spoke again, "As per tradition, I submit my choice before you–– my court–– does anyone have any objections?"

Mateo held his breath, nervously awaiting the riot of protest he'd been half expecting, when his heart sank as a voice rang out from the crowd, "I have a concern, your highness, if I may."

Gasps and murmurs sounded through the room as a tall, elegant woman stepped from the crowd. Doña Paloma gazed up at the crown princess with an imperious smile and an elegantly arched eyebrow raised in question.

Mateo's heart sank, he'd known someone would object. Behind him, he could hear Esteban grit his teeth in irritation while beside him, Elena's eyes narrowed as her arm tightened protectively around his shoulders.

Taking a calming breath to mask her irritation before she spoke, Elena said, "Yes, Doña Paloma? What is your concern about the remarkable young man standing beside me that I have chosen to share my life with?"

"Well, your highness, please forgive me," Doña Paloma began smoothly, "I only have yours and the kingdom's best interest at heart, of course."

"I bet you do," Esteban grumbled under his breath.

Sighing dramatically, she continued, "But while I'm sure that you two are very much 'in love', and that he's a very talented boy when it comes to magic, he has no noble blood. He's not a royal and offers the kingdom no political advantage for trade or, well, anything. I believe his talents would be better suited to tinkering with magic in a workshop than to politics."

It took every ounce of control that Elena possessed to refrain from rolling her eyes at the haughty woman before her. Elena and Doña Paloma had a combative friendship, that is to say, they were friends and rivals and generally had very different perspectives on how to get things done. Elena respected the woman when it came to many things from money to politics, but was not going to allow her to interfere in this most personal choice that was Elena's to make.

Instead, she set her jaw and drew herself up to her full height as she stepped forward, gazing unflinchingly over her gathered court.

"Before I ask for a second, I'd like to say something about this 'talented boy'. Without this boy none of us would be standing here today. He risked everything to help rescue me from that amulet and again to rescue my family. He bravely stood at my side in the final confrontation against Shuriki. Since then, he's saved almost every one of your lives when he defeated the malvago and made the potion that broke the stone statue spell, and let's not forget how he selflessly pursued Orizaba–– alone–– to try and take her down with nothing in it for him except the hope of saving Avalor–– again. And then in the battle for Malvara, he saved ALL of our lives when he boldly destroyed the dark source of their power.

"I submit to you, that it's true, Mateo does not possess an ounce of 'noble blood'," Elena sketched quotation marks in the air, "however, he possesses courage of heart and a noble spirit. More so than anyone in this room, myself included."

Glancing over her shoulder, she smiled softly at Mateo and reached back for his hand.

Mateo took her hand and smiled in return. Listening to her speak about him like that made him feel taller, stronger, and more confident. She truly believed in him and was willing to face down even Doña Paloma to defend her unorthodox decision to take him as her prince consort and partner in life.

He stepped forward to stand at her side as she turned back to the watching court. "He may not be 'nobility', but Mateo de Alva is a hero to us all. He may not offer a 'political alliance', but he is wise beyond his years, loyal, faithful, and completely devoted to defending and protecting Avalor. Those are the qualities that I need from my life partner–– a person who I can trust as an advisor and who is just as devoted to protecting our beautiful kingdom as I am."

Doña Paloma listened to Elena's speech, a little smirk playing about her lips. Fluttering her fan haughtily, Doña Paloma sighed again and said, "But your highness, surely––"

"Doña Paloma!" Both Elena and Mateo jumped and whirled around to see Esteban striding towards the edge of the dais where they were standing. "Need I remind you–– yet again–– that while a highly respected leader in our city, you, yourself, possess not an ounce of noble blood, nor are you a court official? You are an honored guest of the court at this celebration and are hardly qualified to put forth such objections."

Elena had to press her lips together to keep from giggling out loud as she watched Doña Paloma's face change from its typical tan to red to a pale puce color as she opened and closed her mouth wordlessly–– trying to form the words to express her outrage but finding none. Fluttering her fan in agitation, she let out a huffed, "Forgive me, your majesty. I was merely expressing concerns as a citizen of this kingdom. Now, if you'll excuse me." She shot Esteban a particularly nasty look as she turned on her heel and swept back into the crowd.

Esteban met Elena's eye and nodded for her to continue before stepping back into his position next to Francisco.

Turning back to the crowd, Elena cleared her throat and said, "Are there any further objections?"

Silence.

Elena could see that most appeared to be either supportive or indifferent, with just a few haughty exceptions who remained silent.

Elena was about to continue, when another voice spoke up, "I have something to add, your highness, if I may?"

Elena smiled down at Lord Tomás de casa Avila, the new ambassador from Malvara. She had been thrilled when she heard who King Alejandro had appointed as their new ambassador, the very same brave young man who had rescued Mateo from captivity and had "captured" Gabe and Naomi–– thinking Naomi was Elena–– in hopes of rescuing her from the dark ritual.

One of the first things Alejandro did as king was award titles of nobility to many of the non magic wielders in his inner circle within the resistance–– Tomás being one of them. Elena didn't know the young man personally, but she'd heard enough from Mateo, Gabe and Naomi that she already knew she'd like him even without meeting him. When she'd heard that he was the one appointed to serve as ambassador to her court, she welcomed him to her court with open arms.

Elena nodded to the young ambassador and said, "Of course, Lord Ambassador. We are honored to hear from our friends in Malvara."

Nodding, Tomás stepped forward and addressed the crown princess, "Your highness, on behalf of Malvara, I would like to extend our congratulations on your betrothal. I can say with full confidence that King Alejandro is especially pleased with this arrangement and would have liked to have been here to personally offer his congratulations had that been possible. However, as the appointed representative of Malvara and as one who personally owes this remarkable young man a debt I will never be able to repay for the part he played in liberating my homeland from the dark forces that held it for millennia, I can say that he may not be a perfect political match by blood, but he is a perfect match by his deeds–– which, in the eyes of Malvara, is infinitely more valuable. As your political and trade ally, Malvara fully supports this union!"

"As does the Kingdom of Cariza!" King Joaquin called out from the crowd.

"And the Kingdom of Satu!" Ambassador Shoji called out enthusiastically.

"And the Kingdom of Córdoba!" echoed King Juan Ramón while his son, Prince Alonso stood with his arms crossed–– looking rather bored with the proceedings.

Tomás offered Elena and Mateo a wink and a grin along with a little bow and stepped back into the crowd.

Elena glanced sidelong at Mateo, shooting him a saucy grin with a look that plainly said, See? I told you so!

Swallowing hard, Mateo's throat tightened with emotion at the enthusiastic display of support from Avalor's closest political allies–– the kingdoms that stood to lose out on the political marriage contract with the future queen of Avalor. Meeting Elena's eye, he gave her a wry smile and raised an eyebrow in return.

Maybe, but they're not your court. Their approval doesn't count.

We'll see.

Elena smiled coyly and returned her attention to her court. "If there are no further objections, let us move on with the evening, shall we?" Elena took Mateo's arm and nodded to Armando.

Stepping forward, the chief of the palace gestured grandly towards the couple and announced in his best royal proclamation voice, "The crown princess and her betrothed would like to invite you to join them in celebrating their future union with music, dancing and refreshments! Please enjoy the party!"

–––––

The party was in full swing and countless guests had already congratulated the happy couple. Mateo was still a little uncomfortable with all of the attention, but happy to be by Elena's side. He had been hoping to get a few dances in with his beautiful fiancée, but looking around, he could see that the crowd of well wishers would not be thinning out anytime soon.

Leaning in to whisper in Elena's ear, Mateo said, "I'm going to get a drink, may I bring you one, mi amor?"

Smiling softly, Elena gently laid a hand in his arm and said, "I'd love a horchata please and thank you." She kissed him gently on the cheek. "Hurry back," she whispered, her lips softly brushing against his ear, setting his heart racing again, but for a completely different reason this time. "I miss you when you're gone."

Nodding, he flashed her favorite crooked grin before turning and making his way across the ballroom to the banquet table laden with ice cold beverages and culinary delights prepared especially for the crown princess's betrothal celebration.

Mateo's lips twitched in amusement as he surveyed the array of extravagant sweets before him–– he knew just by looking at the selection of hors d'oeuvres that Elena had personally planned this menu down to the last crumb. Platters were piled high with finger sized pan dulce, bunuelos, bowls of fresh juicy strawberries, a decadent three layer tres leches cake, and countless other sweets, but–– at the center of it all–– was a magnificent chocolate fountain. He laughed quietly to himself as he remembered Elena once saying that it's not a party without a chocolate fountain.

He spotted the adjoining table with all of the beverage options–– sherbet punch, lemonade, horchata, and a variety of iced teas, each in its own crystal punch bowl. Mateo reflected that the palace staff had really outdone themselves in setting up for the party as each of the punch bowls sparkled in the lamplight–– artfully arranged around the table.

Taking a pair of crystal punch glasses, he filled them with horchata and, glancing back at the dessert table, decided to fill a plate for Elena. He had a feeling that she'd be busy with the nobles and foreign dignitaries vying for her attention for quite some time–– he knew her well enough to know that a small part in the back of her mind would be worried that she wouldn't get a chance to sample the sweets before the night was over.

Once he'd carefully selected a variety of treats he was sure would satisfy his princess's hopeless sweet tooth, he realized that he didn't have enough hands to carry the plate and the two crystal glasses across the ballroom and through the crowd surrounding Elena. Pursing his lips thoughtfully, Mateo looked around for someone he could ask for help when he was struck with an idea.

He had been practicing casting nonverbal, wandless spells, thinking that skill may come in handy. Setting the plate of sweets and the horchata down on the table, Mateo slowly waved a hand above them, and thought the incantation, "Levaluq!" The plate and cup glowed with magic and gently rose into the air. Pointing from the dishes to Elena, he set the course. The little cup and plate glided gently above the heads of the party guests–– approaching the crown princess who was still at the center of the crowd of nobles, chatting animatedly. She did a little double take as she noticed the little plate and cup approaching. Her eyes lit up and her lips split into a wide grin as she caught the plate of sweets and the cup in her hands and looked over the heads of her guest to meet Mateo's eye.

Thank you, mi querido.

Anything for you, mi amor.

Mateo flashed her favorite crooked smile before turning to take up his own cup and return to her side. He had just lifted the cup when a slow clap sounded from behind him.

"Bravo, Mario. Most impressive."

Mateo turned to find the Prince Alonso standing behind him, clapping slowly–– his lips arranged in a perfectly patronizing smile.

Mateo looked at him for a moment and looked around–– confused––unsure if the Córdoban prince had actually been talking to him. "Pardon? Were you speaking to me?"

Shrugging with the air of the gloriously bored. Prince Alonso picked idly at a spot in his sleeve as he drawled, "I suppose I was. I couldn't help but notice that most impressive parlor trick you just performed. I found myself curious if you were the hired entertainment for tonight's party? I'm planning to host a little get together myself soon and wished to inquire of your services."

Mateo just stared at the prince a moment, confusion furrowing his eyebrows–– surely the prince must be joking. Cocking his head to one side, Mateo said, "I–sorry, what?"

Sighing dramatically, Alonso–– too busy preening at his reflection in the punch bowl to actually look at Mateo–– said, "Look, Mario––"

"Mateo."

"Whatever, I can see that you're a little slow, but I'm feeling generous this evening so I'll ask one more time, do you want the job or not?"

"I'm sorry, but you must be confusing me for someone else. I'm not the hired entertainment."

"Oh? Really? Why else would anyone be performing magic tricks at a royal function? A royal certainly would not behave in such a way, and you––" he crossed his arms and eyed Mateo speculatively, "––are no royal."

Of course, Mateo knew this–– he knew all too well how "not royal" he was, but having someone confuse him for the hired help when he had just been presented as betrothed to the crown princess–– well, it hurt. Rubbing the back of his neck as he looked at the floor, Mateo tried to clarify, "I– I am Elena's––"

Alonso's eyes widened and he took a falsely dramatic step back, and he interrupted, his voice dripping with mock apology, "Oh! I'm so sorry! You're Princess Elena's betrothed! Silly me, how could I forget?"

Mateo was starting to suspect that Prince Alonso had been mocking him all this time. Crossing his arms and raising an eyebrow, Mateo said, "Apology accepted, now if you'll excuse––"

"But where are my manners? Of course I must offer my congratulations on your engagement to the beautiful crown princess of Avalor. She really is quite the catch–– rich, powerful, stunningly gorgeous. And that fiery temper of hers––"

As the Córdoban prince spoke–– Mateo was perplexed trying to figure out what he was getting at or why Alonso was making such an effort to mock him.

Alonso continued, "I can see why you were attracted to her. Who wouldn't want in on that kind of wealth and power?"

This caught Mateo off guard. The prince thought he was after Elena because of her wealth? Incensed at the thinly veiled accusation, Mateo clenched his fists at his side and said, "Now wait, just one second. I would never––"

Yawning, Alonso reached out to brush an invisible speck of dust from Mateo's shoulder, "I'm sorry, Mario? What did you say?"

"It's Mateo!"

"Hmmm? What was that? I'm having a hard time understanding you. I always find the dialect of the––" he looked Mateo up and down, "––common to be so–– so hard to understand. You know, you're going to have to speak more clearly if you ever hope to pass as royal."

Mateo just stared at the prince.

"You know, Mario, I don't blame you for wanting the princess and I fully applaud you for winning her over. I actually had my eye on her at one time–– but that's ancient history. Truthfully, all these years I was certain she was going to marry that royal guard of hers."

Raising a confused eyebrow, Mateo cocked his head to the side and said, "Royal guard? You mean Gabe?"

Alonso gestured past Mateo towards where Gabe was standing with an arm casually slung around Naomi's shoulders as they chatted with Ambassador Avila. "I mean, look at him. He has the bearing of a king–– there's just something about the way he presents himself–– he has the look. His hair, his posture, his mannerisms–– he would have no problem passing for royalty despite his humble beginning. But what am I saying?" Alonso let out a false little laugh, "What princess would choose to marry her guard?"

It was as if he'd punched Mateo in the stomach. Mateo felt a sinking sensation as he listened to Prince Alonso–– arrogant though he was–– voicing each of Mateo's doubts and fears. Mateo knew all too well how very "common" he was; he knew he'd never be able pass for royalty; and he knew full well that there were others out there who were better suited for the role and duties of a prince. Mateo loved Elena with his entire being, but he couldn't help but think that he simply wasn't enough–– he wasn't worthy of the honor.

Alonso eyed the young wizard with mock sympathy before sighing dramatically and saying, "Of course I've always known that princess of yours was a little odd–– the way she consorts with servants and is so keen to dig in the dirt. Then she completely rebuffed my own attempts at courting her in favor of that guard," he said the word "guard" with a curl in his lip as if he'd smelled something unpleasant, "but who would have thought that, in reality, she had a taste for the common–– er–– bookish type."

"Who, indeed," Mateo said dully. He looked at the prince and said, "Well, as enjoyable as this has been, if you'll excuse me, I really must go and–– er–– check on something." He reached out to shake the prince's hand, but Alonso kept his hands in his pockets, looked around the room as if looking for someone and said idly, "Of course, Mario. I'm sure I'll be seeing you again."

Mateo needed some fresh air and a moment to think, so he made a beeline for the door to the balcony on the other side of the ballroom. He hadn't gone more than a few steps, however, before Naomi intercepted him.

"Congratulations, Mateo! I'm so happy for my two best friends!" she beamed at him as she threw her arms around him in a bone crushing hug.

"Er–– thanks Naomi," Mateo gasped.

"You may want to lighten up on the hugging, Nomes, before you crush him to death," Gabe quipped as he stepped forward to clap Mateo in the shoulder. "Congratulations bro!"

"Yes! Congratulations, Mateo," Tomás said, "I meant what I said about Alejandro and Malvara being pleased with the arrangement. You are truly a hero among my people. If there's anything I can do to help with the wedding arrangements, just say the word!"

Naomi released Mateo, who stumbled and rubbed the back of his neck–– looking at the floor–– before saying, "Thanks guys," in a less than enthusiastic tone.

Naomi peered at her friend and said, "What's wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong!" Mateo said quickly, "I just need a bit of fresh air. I'll be back in a moment."

Gabe glared past Mateo to where Prince Alonso had started talking to Doña Paloma. "I saw Prince Alonso talking to you. What did he say?"

"Nothing! He just wanted to congratulate me, that's all."

Raising a sardonic eyebrow, Gabe crossed his arms and said, "Right. I've met him before. He'd never sincerely congratulate anyone below him."

Tomás's eyes narrowed as–– at that moment–– Alonso said loudly, "I applaud you Doña Paloma, for speaking up when you did. Someone needs to be looking out for our dear Avaloran princess. Heaven knows that had I announced my betrothal to someone who offered zero political advantage to the throne, my court would be outraged! It would be a scandal!"

"I see how it is. Let me handle this," Tomás muttered, a mischievous gleam in his eye as he straightened and strode over to the Córdoban prince.

"In fact, I assure you that they would be demanding that I abdicate my right to the throne."

The prince and Doña Paloma startled as Ambassador Avila–– Tomás–– said smoothly, "From the rumors I've heard in my time on your continent, your highness, your court would only demand that you abdicate because they are desperately looking for any excuse to avoid having you on the throne in the first place."

Gabe and Naomi laughed as Alonso's face reddened and he began to splutter incoherently, trying to figure out what exactly this new ambassador really knew about the inner workings of his own court. Mateo's lips twitched in a ghost of a smile, but his eyes and the slump of his shoulders betrayed the turmoil he felt on the inside.

"I–– need some air. I'll be back in a moment." Mateo continued out the door to the balcony, leaving a worried Gabe and Naomi behind.

Naomi looked at Gabe, her lips pursed thoughtfully. "I don't know what that prince said to him, but––"

"It wasn't anything good, that's for sure," Gabe cut in, "I've accompanied Elena to Córdoba a few times and the prince is a real piece of work."

"I've heard Elena ranting about him, but what makes you say that?"

"Well, I'll admit that he's improved a bit when it comes to taking on responsibility, but he has a lot to learn about how to treat his people–– all of his people, not just the nobility. He treats me like dirt every time we meet. And don't get me started on the over-the-top flirting! Thankfully Elena could see right through it after the first visit, but he tried his hardest to keep the two of us apart each time we were there. You'd think he was jealous or something. I never understood why!'"

Naomi crossed her arms and raised an incredulous eyebrow, saying, "That couldn't possibly have anything to do with the fact that you were following after her looking like a lovesick puppy, could it?"

Taken aback, Gabe said, "Oh! You know, I never thought of that."

"So he treated you like dirt? How?"

"Oh, you know, talking down to me. Acting like I was invisible. Ignoring anything I said. Speaking slowly like I was an idiot. Making jabs about how common I was and demanding I did anything he considered 'servant's' work. Stuff like that. It was annoying, but I knew better than to let it get to me."

"But Mateo doesn't. You know how worried he's been about not fitting in with the nobles after he and Elena are married." Naomi's expression darkened and she clenched her fists to her side. "I swear, if he said anything like that to Mateo, I'll–– I'm going to––"

Gabe laughed, "Do what, feisty pants? Give him a stern talking to? Write him a strongly worded letter?"

"I don't know! But Elena needs to know. I don't think Mateo will listen to anyone else right now if he's upset about something that prince said." Naomi stood on tiptoe and craned her neck in an attempt to spot the crown princess in the crowd. "There she is! Let's go!"

Grabbing Gabe's hand, Naomi hurried them through the crowd, squeezing by the many brightly colored, voluminous ball gowns and elbowing disgruntled nobles out of her way when necessary.

"Excuse me–– grand councilwoman coming through–– urgent message for the princess–– excuse me–– grand council business–– please–– let me through!"

When, at last, Naomi and Gabe made it to the front of the crowd, Naomi saw that Elena was talking with Esteban and Ambassador Shoji of Satu. Elena looked over in surprise as Naomi took her elbow and murmured with a half curtsey to the ambassador of Satu, "Excuse me, your highness, but there is an important matter that requires your immediate attention."

Elena raised a questioning eyebrow as Esteban, eyebrows raised in irritation, interjected, "What could be so important as to interrupt the crown princess from her discussions with our foreign guests?"

Naomi leaned in to whisper in Elena's ear, "Its Mateo. Prince Alonso cornered him by the dessert table. I don't know what was said but Mateo seemed upset and went outside. I just thought you'd want to know."

Eyes flashing, Elena turned to the ambassador and said in a forced calm voice, "I'm so sorry to cut this short, Ambassador Shoji, but I must go and attend to a family matter. Perhaps we can chat a little more later this evening?"

"Elena! What are you doing? You can't just––"

"It's quite alright, chancellor," Shoji interrupted, "I simply wanted to wish her well in her future marriage and I have. I know that the princess values her family above all else and we respect that. Besides, I think I am ready to sample that marvelous flan I saw on the dessert table earlier."

Smiling graciously, Elena offered the king a polite curtsey. "Thank you for understanding, ambassador. I'm sure I will only be a few minutes."

As she hurried off, the crowd parted easily for the crown princess.

"Of course they moved for you," Gabe muttered and Naomi smirked.

"Where is he?" Elena asked.

"He was headed towards the balcony."

"Ok, thanks. I'll go take a look," Elena turned to hurry off, but paused, looking back at her friends, she said, "Thank you for coming to tell me. Prince Alonso can be a real–– well, you know. And, anyways, thanks."

"Anytime."

Elena stepped through the door and out into the cool darkness of evening, instantly noting how calm and peaceful it was just steps away from the social pressures of the celebration inside. Just ahead, Elena spotted Mateo standing, his hands placed on the rail, shoulders slumped as he stared out at the vast expanse of the night sky.

Stepping quietly across the balcony, Elena approached the young wizard, who–– not having heard her approach–– stiffened in surprise as she slid her arms around his waist, but instantly melted into her touch once he realized who it was.

"Hey," she whispered, leaning in to press a soft kiss to the back of his neck, "I told you I would miss you if you were gone too long, mi querido."

"Sorry, I just needed some air. I was about to come and find you."

Elena thought her heart would break at the sadness and defeat in his voice. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing. I–– I'm fine."

Elena stepped back to look at him and crossed her arms. Raising an eyebrow in disbelief, she said, "Mateo, I know that's not true. We've been over this, please tell me the truth. I know Prince Alonso spoke to you–– please––" her voice softened to almost a whisper as she reached out for his hand, "Please, give me a chance to prove whatever he said wrong."

Mateo allowed her to take his hand, reveling in the softness of her skin and how delicate her tiny hand felt in his own grasp. He turned to face her, looking into her lovely face. She was so perfect–– his heart swelled with the love he felt for this kind, beautiful young woman who loved him so deeply in return. He knew he would do anything for her, go to any lengths for her.

Clearing his throat and looking uncomfortable, Mateo looked to the floor as he said, "It's–– oh you know, he just complimented my 'parlor tricks', acted like he thought I was the hired help and basically told me I'd never pass for a royal."

"He–– what!? He actually said those things to you?"

Mateo, still looking at the ground, simply nodded his head.

Sighing sadly, Elena moved closer and reached out, cupping his face in her hands, guiding his eyes to her own. "Please look at me Mateo." He met her gaze and blinked. She could see the conflicting emotions deep within his warm hazel eyes.

"What else did he say?"

Mateo hesitated, not wanting to bring up the bit about Gabe being better suited for the role of prince. He knew exactly how she would respond to that.

"Well, aside from accusing me of being after your wealth and power––"

"WHAT?!" Elena's eyes flashed angrily, "He actually said that?! He said–– I'm going to go talk to him right now!"

Clenching her fists at her side, she whirled back towards the ballroom and made to storm off to find the Córdoban prince when Mateo caught her around the waist and pulled her close.

"That won't be necessary!"

"Not necessary!? He had no right! Completely unfounded–– rude–– stuck up––" Elena was spitting mad and ready to do whatever it took to put Prince Alonso in his place.

Mateo smiled a little at her determination to defend him and pulled her closer. Holding her waist securely with one hand, he brought his other hand up and placed it gently on her cheek–– he could feel her lean into his touch, her anger melting away as quickly as it had come.

"Really, Elena. I don't think anything he said is worth damaging Avalor's alliance with Córdoba over. Besides," Mateo sighed, "aside from the fact that I am absolutely NOT after your power and riches, it's not like he said anything particularly untrue."

Eyebrows furrowed, Elena said, "What do you mean?"

"Well," Mateo stepped away from Elena and held his hands out as if in supplication, "he said exactly what I've been saying–– everything about me is so completely not royal––" he began to pace as he vented each of his fears from the past weeks, "my posture, my mannerisms, my hair, my education. I'm common to the core and I have no idea how to be a prince!"

"But none of those things are important!"

"Not important?! How can you say that?"

"Because it's true!" Elena stepped into his path, "no, listen–– it is true! You have been one of my primary advisors for years now, ever since you became royal wizard. You have given me valuable advice on countless occasions. You have risked your life for my safety and the good of Avalor more times than I can count––"

"But any member of the royal guard does that on a daily basis––"

"Perhaps, but I'm not in love with any member of the royal guard. I may trust them with my life and the safety of my kingdom, but I trust you––" she placed her palm over his heart, "I trust you, Mateo de Alva, with my heart."

"But I don't have a drop of noble blood in my veins! I'm so–– common–– a nobody."

"You are not a nobody! You are uncommonly kind and good–– a shining example for us all. You are uncommonly powerful with your unique connection to all things magical. You are uncommonly selfless. I assure you, mi querido, that you––" she took hold of his collar with one hand and pulled his face to hers until their foreheads were touching, her eyes drawn to his lips, and said in a low whisper, "are anything but common." Closing the distance, she pressed her lips to his and kissed him deeply.

Feeling each of his worries slipping from his grasp, Mateo slid his arms around her waist–– one hand pressing tightly against the small of her back as the other found the soft skin of her neck and shoulders where he ran his thumb in little circles. A murmur of pleasure escaped the back of his throat as Elena's soft fingers tangled in his hair.

He loved this woman more than his own life and he'd do anything for her. No matter his worries, the two of them were well past the point of no return. He would marry her, regardless of how foolish everyone may think him to be. But––

"Elena?" he whispered against her lips.

"Mmmm?"

"I don't know how to be a prince. What if I fail? What if I disappoint you?"

Pulling back to look him in the eye, she said quietly, "Impossible. You could never disappoint me. Besides, I'll be right by your side to teach you everything you need to know."

"What do you know about being a prince or about being married to a queen?"

Elena laughed. "Well, how different can it be from being a princess?"

Mateo smirked, saying, "According to everyone, you're an odd princess."

"Yeah, well I get the job done," she waved a dismissive hand and pursed her lips thoughtfully, "but, how about this? Tomorrow we'll ask Esteban to tutor you. He knows all about the proper way to do everything and would probably be the best person to teach you these things. Between the two of us, you'll know everything you need to know before the wedding. How does that should?"

Mateo's eyes brightened a bit. "That actually sounds perfect."

"But for tonight, we are celebrating our engagement. We will go back inside, let the nobles faun all over you, I'll give Prince Alonso a series of pointed dirty looks, and we'll eat sweets and dance until we collapse. Can you do that?"

Smiling crookedly, Mateo leaned in for a kiss and said, "For you, mi amor? Anything."

Author's Note: And so we begin another epic eleteo adventure! Yay! I'm so excited to share this story with you guys! Just in case you're new here, this is a sequel to "The Magic Within" and there are a lot of details and original characters that you may not understand unless you read the previous fic. I will be updating somewhere between once every week or every two weeks.

Regarding chapter 1, can we talk a moment about Doña Paloma and Prince Alonso. I wrote this chapter before Masks of Magic came out and I had to do a lot of character analysis and research to try and make sure that I wasn't writing them out of character based on the new information we received in that episode. I have come to the conclusion that even though Elena and Doña Paloma have this new understanding, Doña Paloma would not hesitate to stick her nose into palace business if she was concerned about her business's bottom line. And though Prince Alonso is trying to be more like Elena and be more responsible, I don't think he's completely reformed his arrogant ways and would have no problem looking down on anyone who wasn't royal or of the nobility. We only saw him around those of a high social status in Masks of Magic, how would he act if he came face to face with Gabe again? So anyways, I've been agonizing over these two characters for the past week, so please, if you disagree with my interpretation, that's fine but try not to judge me too harshly. I thought about creating OC's just for this but I thought the drama would be more engaging with characters we already knew and understood to some extent. :)