Prince Charming in the Forest
ANN
Ann cannot believe this! No, she could not! Well, she could, but her mind just won't let her believe what her eyes are seeing. She gulped while looking at the golden invitation in her hand, together with a letter (Love Letter) from Marco.
Everyone might want to ask why she has a letter and an invitation from Marco, or who the hell is Marco anyway? Well, how to start?
Ann stomped away from the crowd. She hated those upstart nobilities who are too greedy for influence. Everyone can see that the only reason they are befriending her is because she is an Imperial princess from the D. Empire ruled by the Emperor Gol D. Roger and Empress Gol D. Rouge nee Portgas D.
Their empire has the largest influence in the world. Her father has so many connections around the world. They also happen to be the Strongest among the supernatural beings.
Her mother, Rouge, is a half Fire fairy and half Elf while her father is Half Cheshire Cat and Half Elf. Together, the Emperor and Empress of the D. Empire produced twin princesses namely Gol D. Andrea or Ann, as what her parents call her and the younger of the twins, Gol D. Sabrina or Sab. The twins have inherited their mother's powers. They both are Salamanders and an elf. Sadly, they did not inherit the Cheshire powers of their father, but the mischief in their personalities says otherwise.
Being supernatural creatures, they live longer than humans do. But, after only three years, another princess was born, namely Gol D. Luffia or Luffy or Lu. Depends on who is calling her. Unlike the twins, she inherited her father's powers. She has a dominating power when it comes to spells, incantations, glamour and devious attitude. In fact, she is far too devious, more than their father ever was.
The three grew up inside the palace, but they sometimes stayed in the mountains to hunt down and train their powers. They are also free to befriend anyone they want, be it a servant, a commoner or a nobility. All in all, they are free to do everything so long as they don't do too much to make their mother angry, she's scary. Their parents do not adhere to common tradition of status. They never cared for a person's social standing which is why the sisters are not keen in befriending anyone.
The D. Empire is full of prosperity that any kingdoms nearby admired and of course envied. They were a subject of social talk, be it wealth, power, fame, and even their beauty is something everyone is eager to talk about.
Being a princess has so many responsibilities that Ann usually hates. That includes accommodating bitches from different continents that are far too greedy to have influence over them. Ann specially hates those upstart men who think that they are too handsome or they are a knight in shining armor that would protect her from everything. She needed no protection, she can protect herself and she bet she can kick their asses singlehandedly! She has been existing in this world for more than a century already, and she has been to battles more than those princes combined.
She is never a damsel in distress. She was born a warrior. Everyone who knew the prowess of D. Family knew too well that their family's powers is not something to look down. She loved to go to battles. She was after all an infamous Warrior Princess in D. Empire, wielding fire to burn enemies to the ground. Her fire is wild and ferocious whilst Sab's fire contains control and dominance. Both fires are infamous in and out of the empire.
After seeing the world and thinking clearly, she and Sab decided to refuse the crown. That was two years ago. Her reasoning is that she does not want to rule and she does not fit in that role. Besides, seeing her youngest sister Luffia grow up, she can see the future ruler in her. It seems Sab has seen that one as well. But her reasoning is different. Even though she is a Warrior Princess and has been a commander in wars she participated, she still does not think being an Empress of D. Empire will suit her. It just does not feel right to haver such title to herself. There is something that really is missing the more she thinks about it.
After they declared that they don't want to rule the empire, their parents respected their decision. They never insisted or forced them to take the throne itself. Their parents were happy that they are able to find a resolution to turn down a power that everyone else would have taken for granted. During that time, Luffia was travelling around the world with her friends when she received the call from her older sisters. She accepted their reasons and respected it. For years, Luffia wanted to travel the world and explore different places. She only have two years to explore more before going back to the Empire.
After everything is set, the Empire stated a formal declaration to the entire World. After all, everyone is expecting for Ann to take the throne. This is one of the reasons why she has so many suitors all over the world. They all have intention of marrying her since whoever the lucky man is, he will be taking the title of Emperor of D. Empire. The title alone is alluring to their ears. They wanted power. Unfortunately, that will not happen anytime soon.
"For this day forward, the D. Empire's courts as well as the whole Imperial Family hereby declared that the twin Imperial princesses, First Imperial Princess Gol D. Ann and Second Imperial Princess Gol D. Sabrina, shall not be named as Heir to the Throne to the D. Empire. The decision was made by the twin Princesses and agreed upon the Imperial Family."
"As it is, Imperial Princess Gol D. Luffia shall be the official Heir Apparent and will be known as the First Princess and will be entitled to the throne once the current Emperor and Empress decided to abdicate the throne or death may descend upon them."
"Furthermore, even if the twin princesses are not named as the First Princess or Second Princess as by accordance to the law, they are still entitled as the Empire's princesses. The titles of 'Her Imperial Highness, Imperial Princess' shall be retained. Princess Andrea shall have the following official titles: Her Imperial Highness, Imperial Princess Andrea, Countess of D Empire's East Coast, Duchess of Colvo, Head Mistress of Portgas D. Imperial Court."
"Princess Sabrina shall have the following titles: Her Imperial Highness, Imperial Princess Sabrina, Countess of D. Empire's West Coast, Duchess of Goa, Head Mistress of Monkey D. Imperial Court."
"For precautions, should something happen to the current crowned Imperial princess, or should she be left with no heirs whatsoever, Princess Andrea will retake the former title and will be the next heiress to the throne. Her Imperial Highness, Princess Ann's heirs shall be next in line to the throne of the D. Empire should the current Heir Apparent be left with no heirs. Should something happened with Princess Andrea and should she have no heirs left, Princess Sabrina will retake former title and will be entitled to the throne. Her heirs will continue the legacy. The rest are as it is."
"For further clarification, under the order of the current Emperor and Empress, these following laws will be followed: Should Princess Luffia be married, her husband shall be named as Emperor. He will have the same social and military status as the Empress. He shall be bestowed the title of Emperor under the condition that every laws he will declare, every decisions as long as it involves the benefit of the entire Empire shall have an approval from the Empress. His name, after the wedding, shall have a D. in between. The children of the Empress shall carry the name of their father, the Emperor with a D."
"For Princess Andrea and Princess Sabrina, should they be married, they will retain their titles in the empire as 'Her Imperial Highness, Princess'. Their husbands will have the same title as the ones they currently have. The husbands shall have 'His Imperial Highness, Prince'. After the official wedding, their names will still have Gol D. name on it. As such, if the name of the husband is Alvarez, the princess shall have the name, Alvarez Gol D. Their children will carry such name so as to preserve the titles."
"Heir from herein forth shall be bestowed of titles 'His Imperial Highness or Her Imperial Highness'."
After those declaration, there are so many stirring protests from the people. The declaration happened all of the sudden. The moment the D. Empire announced that they are to declare an important matter, everyone expected that they are going to announce an engagement of Princess Ann to the world. It does not help that the current Heir Apparent is missing in action at that time. Truth to be told, after exploring the world, she returned and was welcomed by the whole Empire. Luffia fits to rule this Empire.
All those things still brings her to her current predicament. Even after having a lower title unlike before, so many people still wanted such influence. The title of 'His Imperial Highness of D. Empire' still sounds too good to pass by. Many suitors are still going after Ann and she lost count how many she turned down already. She is so pissed this day and she ran away from the palace and went off somewhere so far. She ditched the constricting dress that they made her wear and instead chose a comfortable warrior outfit that suits for a hunter.
She is wearing a black cropped top sleeveless shirt that shows off her toned abs, paired with black shorts and an orange belt. She have a knee high boots, a knife in her belt, and black gloves with orange patterns on it. Her wavy brunette locks was tied in a high ponytail.
She was miles and miles away from the palace. She and her sisters does not go to formal ceremonies because they thought they are too boring and they will just sleep it off, anyways, it does not matter because D. Empire is not known for formalities and such. Their people are just too used to their whims, after all, almost everyone living in the D. Empire has D. in their names, or descendants of bearers of D.
So, on a whim, she left the palace and run off to this forest off the West Coast of the D. Empire. This forest is like a hunting ground for hunters like her. This is open to everyone who dares to challenge the forest's force, the wild animals and such. She and her sisters often play here when they are bored out of their minds. They would compete who would get more. Along those times, Luffia would get eaten by something and Ann and Sab would rescue her.
She walked at a random direction, not caring because she is confident enough to find her way back to the palace. On her way to the random direction of the forest, she could hear from a distance that someone is also hunting nearby. She ignored it, not really caring because this forest is a neutral ground for anyone. Her heightened senses are telling her that some kind of forest monster is up for an attack at her back. Since she is pissed off, she would play with it as its prey then she would become its hunter afterwards. That is her initial plan.
The forest monster is speeding up behind her back, she just played like she does not know that it existed. She waited until the last second before she would dodge the monster's attack and start her own attack, but all of the sudden, with a swoosh of something blue, the monster's movement was restricted and it fell to the ground. Momentarily, Ann forgot she ever saw a blue blur somewhere that might be the cause of her prey's death, and instead focused on the dead forest monster in front of her. She gaped at it, like she cannot believe that someone stole her prey from her. She was supposed to play with it!
She frowned at the dead monster and exactly at that time, the person who stole her prey appeared out of nowhere.
"Miss, are you okay?" Ann shoved down the urge to gasp at the sexy voice of the man. She concentrated on the fact that her prey was stolen. With a mad frown and a huff, she turned to the man in front of her. She almost, almost, forgot about why she is mad the moment she saw the blond man in front of her.
The man in front of her had a strikingly unique blond hair that reminded her of a tropical fruit, a bored/half lidded eyes that gave off a certain aura that says he is friendly. Upon locking eyes with the man, she was met with the most beautiful blue eyes she ever seen in her lifetime. His clothes does not seems to fit those of a hunter, for he only wore an open purple shirt that shows off his muscled abs, a dark pants with a blue sash on it, plus a complicated sandals. Damn, this man is hot! Ann shook her head. She concentrated on her straight thoughts. She could not just openly ogle at the walking blond Adonis in front of her.
"Miss, is everything okay with you?" When the man asked that, Ann snapped out of her daze and she won't admit openly that she ogled at the man. Instead, she focused on the matters at hand.
"You killed my prey!" She snapped a deadly glare at the man who was taken aback from her sudden burst out.
"Of course I did, yoi! It is attacking you while you are not paying attention. I can't just let you die."
Ann, deep down her felt delighted about this, but since she is moody today and has lots of pent up anger, that appreciation was shoved deep down her.
"I don't need saving from you! I can take care of myself, thank you very much! And for your information, I knew that it is attacking me. I was planning to dodge it at the last minute, but you, a Great Knight in Shining Armor killed it. You must be proud of yourself for saving a damsel in distress, well, to tell you the truth, I am no damsel in distress and I don't need your heroic stunts!" She huffed not sure if she is angry at the man in front of her for killing her prey or to the fact that there are people acting heroic in front of her to get her attention.
The man in front of her seems to be amused at her burst out, as there is a visible smirk appeared in his handsome face, and his beautiful blue eyes had a glint of amusement. Ann frowned (pouted) at him for smirking.
"What are you smirking at?!" She asked, but really, there is no anger in her voice. There is only an irritation in it. The blond man smiled at Ann, and she almost faltered.
"I apologize that my Heroic Stunts killed your prey. If I knew that you knew it is attacking you, I would have let you attack it yourself. Certainly, you made it clear you are no damsel in distress." He said smiling at Ann. She raised an eyebrow at him, eyeing him suspiciously. She still has that frown and pout on her face, which amused the man to no end.
"Fine! Whatever! I'll just find my own prey, and you, sir, won't be killing it!" She emphasized and the blond man raised her hands up in as if he is surrendering.
"Of course, Miss. Your prey is all yours, yoi."
"Y-you can keep that. You killed it, it's yours." Ann started to walk away from the man, to try to hide the blush that appeared in her cheeks. She was hoping the man did not see it, but something tells her otherwise. Despite the lazy and laid back attitude the man gives off, what with his half lidded eyes and choice of clothes, there is some aura of power in that man that tells her he is sharp and intelligent, so the blush that appeared in her cheeks might have been seen. This is the first time she encountered this man in this forest. Was he a frequent hunter in this forest? Ann, can't help but wonder.
"I am Marco. Won't you tell me your name?" Ann stopped in her tracks and turned to look back at Marco. He really looks so damn gorgeous and Ann can't help but feel mesmerized by his eyes.
"And why should I tell you my name?" She asked in a suspicious manner. Alright, she will inwardly admit the man is gorgeous as hell but she will not openly say that to him and she will not act friendly just because he looked gorgeous. After all, he killed her prey..
"Because I just gave you mine." Ann looked at him with suspicion. Should she tell him? But he does not look like a bad guy.
"Ann. My name is Ann." Marco smiled at her, a genuine smile that melts Ann's stubborn heart.
"It's a pleasure meeting you, Ann. I hope to see you again, yoi." Ann said with a firm resolution.
"Why not? As long as you don't touch my prey." Marco gave a chuckle at her.
"Of course. I will keep that in mind." He said and with that, Ann disappeared from his sight.
As soon as Ann disappeared from Marco's sight, Marco began walking to the opposite side, a grin plastered on his face as he remembered the stubborn woman who amused him to no end.
The first time he saw the woman up close, Marco fought so hard to gasp at the striking beauty in front of him. Her brunette locks was tied into a pony tail and Marco was sure as hell that those locks are soft to caress. Her prominent nose seems to be too perfect in her face. The Dark grey eyes that held fire in it, and the freckles. Marco never knew that freckles can be so damn hot!
She seems to be a real warrior judging from the way she dressed, and her muscles. Her toned abs fit her quite perfectly. Even if she seems to be a bit muscular, that did not mean that her curves as a woman would be in disdain. In fact, she has perfect curves at the right places.
Marco's line of thought was sure to be branded as perverted, but who can blame him. The woman named Ann is like a walking warrior goddess! With a light shake of his head, he allowed himself another smile to form on his lips as he remembered the image of Ann. He is hoping to meet her soon, and possibly, get to know her. Would she allow him to get close to her? He certainly hopes so.
The following day, instead of going back to his place, Marco stayed for another day, and it has something to do with meeting a certain woman in the forest. Even if it is insane, Marco was hoping that he would meet her regardless, even if chance of meeting her is low. The forest is huge and their meeting was pure coincidence but can you blame him for holding in to that mere coincidence?
The forest is so big and Marco began to wonder around it. He does not need to use his heightened senses as a Phoenix. His human form has already adapted to that particular ability and he can hunt in this forest without transformation.
He wonders about the forest and when he spotted a certain wild boar, he took out his bow. The wild boar that has a size of a fully grown bear kept running towards Marco. Marco had a clear vision to direct his arrow straight to the head of the animal but before he could release his shot, the boar was shot to the neck by someone. Clearly, it did not came from Marco's direction.
As the boar lay dead, Marco looked at the direction where the arrow came from, and at that point, he saw a familiar woman sitting in the branch of a tree with a devilish and playful smirk on her face as if she just won a lottery.
Marco crossed his arms in front of his chest and raised an eyebrow at the woman as if questioning her actions.
"Payback from yesterday." She shrugged at him with a smirk on her face. She jumped from the tree and walked towards Marco who did not hide the amusement in his face.
"So, we're even." Marco stated.
"Yep, we're even. And that boar is mine." She made a note that she is going to take the boar for herself.
"It should have been mine, but by all means, please take it." Marco does not care about the boar. He is just happy to see her again, no matter how ridiculous that sounds.
"Thanks, Marco!" she beamed at him. Marco was surprised that she called him by his name, considering that he is a stranger.
"Do you often go here to hunt?" Marco can't help but asked. Alright, he is hoping to get to know this woman more. He really felt drawn to her.
"Not much. Just sometimes, if I am bored staying home, or doing errands for some upstart nobilities." Ann shrugged. She stopped on retrieving the boar and reviewed what she just said. She does not like to slip up and let him know she is a princess. She wanted to be normal even for once.
"So, you're a mercenary?" Marco asked. He can't help it. He just wanted to know more about her.
"And why do you ask?" Ann faced Marco this time. Her eyebrows raised in suspicion, but her instincts are telling her that Marco is a good guy. She is a naturally suspicious of anything or anyone except for a few rare times. Although it is possible Marco is just curious and just wanted to strike a normal conversation, that still does not let her suspicions go away.
"I am just curious. You don't have to answer that." Marco does not want to impose too much. He wanted to avoid scaring her away.
"Nah, I'll answer. I can't say I am a mercenary. It's hard to give description." Ann tried to shrug and play casual. She does not want to give too much information. But really, it is simple. She just have to say that she is a princess that is why she does things that she does not want to sometimes, just because she have to face some upstart nobles that even her parents did not like.
"I see." Marco nodded.
"How about you? Where are you come from?" Ann is getting curious as well. Besides, she wanted to know about him. She gave an information, it would also be fair for him to giver her one.
"I'm from the neighboring Kingdom. I just often go here to have some time to hunt because this is known to have animals good for hunting." Marco also avoided mentioning where he came from or the fact that he is a crowned prince of Whitebeard Kingdom. Judging from what Ann's impressions of nobility, it is safe to say in Marco opinion that she might not like nobles. Besides, Marco thinks informing her that he is a prince would matter. She might not like him and she might start to avoid him and that is one thing he wanted the least.
"Oh. So what do you do?" Ann is now curious of Marco. She has never been so curious at someone before now. Sometimes, after a few getting to know each other, she does not have any feelings that she still want to know more. She had some friends as well, but Ann knew better that her curiosity towards Marco is not something she can identify as curiosity of a friend. It is something more.
"Well, you could say that I am a Combat master." Ann's eyes turned brighter.
"Then you must be strong then! Maybe we can do a sparring sometimes." She enthusiastically suggested, and Marco agrees so. She loved to do sparring and getting a change to spar with anyone aside from her sisters or her family will be great. Her enthusiasm is something different from the time he first met her.
"Why not? What are your specialties?"
"Well, hand to hand combat. Me and my sisters usually train together."
"So you have siblings then. I also have many siblings. We also do trainings together."
"Awesome! But – hey! Why am I talking to you? You're a stranger!" Ann stated. Marco sweat dropped at her sudden realization though she have no animosity towards him, she just pouted.
"Can't we just be friends? We introduced each other, did we not, yoi?"
Ann raised eyebrow thinking then shrugged.
"Yeah, you're right. I'm hungry. Help me cook this." Ann told Marco referring to the stolen prey. Marco shrugged at her sudden change of behavior and just lifted the boar so that they could cook it somewhere. He is not going to complain about that sudden change, after all, she did accept being friends with him. though he actually hoping for more but for now, being friends will have to do.
They found a good clearing to cook the boar.
Ann thought that she could just roast the boar with her powers, but decided against it. It would automatically give Marco a hint of who she is. She would avoid that, not that she is hiding that she is an Imperial princess, it's just that for once, she wanted to be a normal person in front of the others. There are people who will treat her differently just because she is an Imperial princess and right now, she liked how Marco treats her like a normal person.
"I'll just get a few branches nearby." Marco stated and Ann nodded, excited that she get to eat this delicious meat. Ann cleaned the boar, leaving no fur at all. A few moments later, she heard Marco approaching carrying woods.
They silently worked together which is a surprise knowing that they are actually strangers. They also met due to a strange circumstance.
Marco lit the woods and they start roasting the boar.
"So, how many siblings do you have?" Ann asked curiously.
"There are 15 of us." Ann's jaw almost fell to the ground when she heard that.
"15? As in 15? Are you serious?" Marco chuckled at her reaction which he found cute.
"Yes. We are not related by blood, but we treat each other as family." Ann picked her jaw from the ground. Ok, she imagined if she will have as many siblings as Marco had right now and she could not imagine what a riot it will be. It is already a riot with just the three of them. Imagine another 12 of them with the same attitude and characteristics. That will never end well.
"Adopted?" She asked.
"You could say that."
"Wow. That's a lot of siblings you got there. I bet all of you are rowdy. Just me and my sisters are rowdy enough."
"Yes, you hit the right target. The constant teasing, the adventures, pranks." Marco chuckled at the memories they all shared.
"Pranks? My sisters and I used to play pranks as well."
"How many sisters do you have?"
"Two. I am the eldest. We used to go here when we have time to hunt especially when we were kids." Ann just smiled at the memories she remembered. "My youngest sister, Lu used to get eaten by various monsters because she is so clumsy and a crybaby."
"Eaten?" Marco could never imagine how a girl could get eaten and how it is alive.
"Yeah. She loved to do adventures like wondering around the forest, and challenge monsters then get eaten so Sab and I have to get her out of the monster's belly." Ann stated like it was natural and Marco believed it.
"Must be handful for a sister then, yoi."
"Oh, that's not even half of it. You can't imagine what we did to those bandits we live with." Marco's head was already spinning.
"You live with bandits when you were kids?" Not everyday he will encounter a person who grew up with bandits. But he supposed it is possible.
"Yeah. Our grandpa sort of blackmailed them in looking after us because our parents are usually busy and he is kind of busy as well and it is lonely in our house so we live with them for some time." Ann shrugged. Really, it was actually not known to the entire Empire that the Imperial Princesses lived with the infamous bandits in Mt. Colvo which should be under the supervisory of Sab since she is the current Duchess.
"Wow, that is quite interesting. No wonder you seem familiar around here. My siblings used to go here as well, but we can't memorize every nook of it." He commented.
"You haven't explored this entire forest? Then let's go ahead explore! Oh, after we eat of course." Marco just fondly shook his head. He seems to be enjoying this. She is so enthusiastic and cheerful. Her smile is so radiant that anyone can be attracted to her. Marco wonders if she is already taken. He saw her ring finger and there is no wedding ring on it so that indicates that she is not married per se. But he hopes she does not have a lover.
They ate the boar, or more like Ann devoured it. Marco just ate 10 percent of the whole thing while Ann seems to be eating the rest.
"Wow, you eat a lot."
"I'm hungry! Of course I would eat! Are you going to eat that? If not, let me have it." Ann was referring to the meats that Marco did not eat. He's kind of full already and does not want to eat anymore so he gave her his leftovers. She gladly took it and devoured it in a matter of seconds.
Marco watched her with amusement. She has a confidence and he like that. She seems comfortable with her skin, unlike most women Marco met. They are always conscious of their appearance and poise. They seem to put a lot of makeup on where it is not needed and Marco does not like it, even though his sister, Izou puts a lot of makeup. Well, Izou is an exemption.
Ann is beautiful even without the enhancements of makeup. She has a long natural wavy brunette locks that surely be an envy for most women, a prominent nose, natural red lips and the most striking dark grey eyes Marco has ever seen. She frowns at every suspicious things will find and pouts at everything that might irritate her or if things does not go well. When she smiles, it's as if she is the most carefree person in the world.
After eating, Ann led the way in their exploration. They went deeper inside the forest or more like a jungle. Marco can feel several presences of monsters. They were growling and anytime they would attack them. Marco is not really afraid of them, but it never hurts to be careful.
They followed a path which Marco is not familiar with. He has never been here before despite exploring the forest. This path seems to be dangerous and tricky to find. Only those who explored this forest to a certain extent can navigate thoroughly with no problems.
"Where are we going?"
"We're going to explore the entire forest! I'll tour you around here. There are places you should see!" Marco just smile at that.
They continued to walk for another several minutes. They are walking on a stony path and when Ann stopped, Marco made to stop beside her. He wondered at first, but right now, he knew why.
The scenery was fantastic. There is a mystic falls, you can also see the ocean, flowers everywhere. Its truly like a paradise in the middle of jungle.
"We used to go here when we were kids. We loved to take a bath in the falls and this is just one of the wonders in this forest."
"This is amazing. I never knew such thing could exist and you said this is just one of it?"
"Yup! I'll show you the others. Come on!" Ann was so enthusiastic and excited showing everything to Marco. They started walking to a cliff side to get a better view at the falls. The river was flowing fantastically, the water coming from the falls. There is a larger river nearby and Marco immediately could see the swarm of large crocodiles which are known to be ferocious. A certain large crocodile, larger than any of the ones in the river suddenly started to move towards Marco and Ann.
"Ann." Marco called out to warn her about the approaching crocodile. He is preparing himself to move should this crocodile start thinking they are food he can attack.
Ann looked at Marco then to the approaching crocodile.
It was 10 times the size of a normal crocodile. Marco was thinking that it is the King of the crocodiles. He made himself ready to attack or dodge in case the crocodile decides to attack when all of the sudden, Ann called the crocodile out.
"Barty! There you are!" Marco saw something that is beyond amazing. The King Crocodile suddenly acted like a good doggy in front of Ann and glared at Marco. Marco's jaw just dropped upon seeing Ann petting the crocodile.
"Barty, yoi?" Marco asked. The crocodile glared at him. It is really hostile towards Marco.
"Barty, he's a friend. He came with me. His name is Marco." The crocodile snorted at Marco making him raised an eyebrow at it. "Barty is my youngest sister's pet. Well, one of her pets."
"Your sister's pet is a King Crocodile?" This is getting weirder. A king crocodile named Barty sound ridiculous enough for Marco and when Ann mentioned it was her sister's pet, now that sounds weirder than it is.
"Yes. Actually, it tried to eat her when she was a kid, then all of the sudden, it just became her pet. Sab and I suggested that we should just eat it, but she was against it. She said she wanted to pet him, so here he is. She named him Barty." The crocodile looked smug at Marco but it did not escape to Marco's keen sight that Barty slightly shivered at the connotation of being eaten.
"Your sister sure has weird choices for pets, yoi." Barty glared again at Marco and he immediately held a hand in front of his chest as a defense. "I did not mean to offend you or anything, Barty." Barty snorted again and Sab just continued to pet him.
"Lu's first pet is a Kraken."
"Did you just said Kraken?" Marco is making sure that he heard it correct. As far as he knew, Kraken is a myth and if it is true, he had never seen one. It is a creature of the undersea, feared by many and according to legends, only those who saw it and survived were brave warriors. It is quite a feat to survive seeing a Kraken and live to tell the tale but when Ann mentioned of the Kraken as a pet, that sounds too ridiculous to believe.
"Yes. Kraken. His name is Surume. Then she also have a fighting Bull in a coliseum. His name is Ushy." Marco does not know whether to comment about the name choices or to the fact that Ann's sister can tame ferocious monsters.
"You know what, I am not going to ask anymore." After a few exchange of words, Ann led Marco to their next destination which is a garden of flowers which looks odd in a jungle such as this.
The garden happens to have a Giant Snake which happened to be another pet of Ann's sister.
"Since Lu introduced us to her pets, they are usually peaceful with us. They let us talk to them and feed them but they are not as sweet with us as they are with Lu." Ann further explained because the Snake which was named Snakey hissed at Marco and looked suspiciously at Ann not until she mentioned her sister's name that the snake calmed a little bit.
Snakey let the two of them wander around the garden which is her territory.
Every nook of destination has monster guards in it and Marco found out that those monsters are all pets of Ann's sisters. No wonder Ann knew every cranny of it. It is because of her sister taming the wild and ferocious beasts.
"Actually, all those places we visit is not even half of the places we have to explore. There is a deep cave leading to a den of dragons, but Lu said I shouldn't go there unless she is with me. Those dragons are nasty and will eat you at the first chance they got." Ann said in a casual tone as if those facts are normal for them.
"Don't tell me that those dragons are her pets as well?"
"Well, technically not all of them. It's just the king, And since the king of the herd is her pet, well, we could say that everyone is already is."
"I won't be surprised anymore, yoi. Your sister sure is amazing in choosing pets." Ann laughed at that. Luffia is good and quite bold in taming monsters that it became a hobby. Of course, she would first try to eat those monsters and if they are funny or interesting enough, she will decide to tame it and let it become her pet.
"Of course. "
"She kind of reminded me of my sister, Haruta. She's a midget and very enthusiastic about weird things. I think she and your sister would hit it off as friends, yoi."
"Disasters will come, that I will tell you." They laughed at their own jokes. Marco started explaining how his family is sometimes annoying.
"One time, Thatch pranked our dad by drawing a black beard while he's sleeping. He was so mad and the results, he has to be in cleaning duties for a week." Thatch was really regretful for doing that and he learned his lessons well that he needs to choose who he should prank.
"Damn! I should have done that to my dad. I'm not sure is he would be mad, but maybe not." Ann thought seriously. Of course, she is quite sure that her dad will just laugh it off considering he is easy going for an Emperor.
"Uh, I think you shouldn't. You might be in cleaning duties for a week if you would." Marco warned. He could still remember how Thatch suffered thoroughly in every pranks he pulls.
They exchanged stories and time flew past, they did not realize that its already nearing dusk.
"Are you going to camp out here?" Ann asked. She could just teleport back to the palace if she wants, but the idea of doing magic does not sit fine with her for some reason.
"Yeah. I'll be. How about you?"
"I'll be camping out as well. We have a secret base around here that we can crash in. You can come with me if you want." Ann felt nervous asking that to Marco. It sounded a little different.
"Are you okay with it? Its your secret base after all, yoi." Ann thought of that. Normally, they won't asked just anyone to come to their secret base.
"That's fine. We used to have Lu's friends to stay in our base if they decide to go hunting."
Then Marco agreed to come.
Their secret base is really a secret base. Judging from the path they took as well as the monsters they bypassed, it seems not anyone can enter it with so much ease. They have to walk a narrow cliff, a den of lions which happens to be part of Lu's pets, a bunch of sharp rocks, a old bridge to cross. Actually,
They arrived at what appears to be the middle nowhere. The place is amazing nonetheless. It has a mini falls, a hot spring on the other side of the area, a fishpond, garden, three swings attached to the large tree. Their Secret base happens to be a tree house. It is on the top of a very large tree. It has a pirate flag with an ASL mark. Marco is guessing it is the first letters of the three sisters' names.
"I must say, you never failed to make this tour fantastic and exciting. I love your place here."
"Thanks. We built it when we were kids. Then renovated it when we were growing up. Come on, I will show you the inside." They climbed the stairs. On the way to the door, Ann warned Marco to duck. He was about to ask why when all of the sudden, a large boulder came flying to his face. Good thing he had keen reflexes and he was able to dodge it at the last second. If it weren't for his supernatural powers, he would have been sent flying with a big bruise.
The moment Marco stepped inside, he stomped something like a string and Ann gave a warning to watch out for knives and really, knives flew out of anywhere. Marco dodged everything.
"A little warning earlier?" Ann smirked at him.
"You dodged it just fine!" And she chuckled. Marco just shook his head and followed her inside. He was being extra careful, but really, he touched something that should not be touched and a series of arrows flew out of nowhere. Good thing he is quick and he dodged every single one of them. "And I forgot to warn you of that, and that one as well." The last she was referring to was the coldest water Marco had. "Sorry."
He glared at her with no appreciation of the Sorry she mentioned but at least she gave him a towel which is stored in the tree house. It seems this is like their vacation house.
"I have to dry my clothes." Marco stated. His clothes are wet due to the last trap that was thrown at him.
"Oh, right. Let me search some clothes here. I think some of Sanji's clothes are here." Marco inwardly frowned. Who's Sanji? She never mentioned of any brother. Her man? The thought did not sit well with Marco.
"A friend of yours?"
"Yes, he became my friend, but originally he was friends with my sister. I mentioned that Lu used to invite her friends here."
"Oh." Marco just said. He followed Ann in the living room where she went to a wooden cabinet which contains the clothes. She rummaged through the cabinet until she found what she's been looking for.
"Here." She provided him the clothes he needed. A simple white tee shirt and comfortable black shorts. "You can change inside the room." She said,
Marco went inside and immediately get changed. While he was changing, Ann made a note to scold herself for being too nervous in front of him. She calmed herself. When Marco stepped inside, she asked him to come with her upstairs in what looked like their crow's nest. He was a little adamant due to the numerous traps he went through.
"Come on. Don't worry. There are no sets of traps here… Probably."
"That's not reassuring at all." Ann just gave a peace sign to Marco and led him to another stairs which led to what seems like the highest point of the Tree house. When Marco got there, he appreciated the view of the sun going down.
"This is our favorite spot. We loved to watch the sunset and sunrise. And you can see the horizon wide and clear. The air is fresh, its like you're flying to your freedom." Marco looked at Ann. He can see and feel what she meant.
"Yeah, it's beautiful here." Ann was looking at the sunrise when she agreed to what he said, but in truth, Marco was referring to the sight beside him.
When its time to sleep, Ann gave Marco the extra futons they have. The tree house is like a bungalow type of house. A small kitchen, small living room and one large room which can house 10 people sleeping comfortably.
Ann gave the extra futon to Marco and they prepared their makeshift beds on the floor. There is a good 3 to 4 feet distance between their beds but the space seems to be not enough and Ann still felt his presence nearby. Why did she ask him to come with her again?
The moment Ann hit the bed, she was instantly asleep. She has a Narcolepsy which is too convenient and irritating sometimes. This chance allows Marco to observe her while sleeping. She looks like a baby sleeping peacefully.
Marco wonders what supernatural creature she is, or even if she is one. Her physical strengths says that she is, but Marco felt no magical aura around her. Despite not sensing any magical aura, Marco felt strongly attracted at her. Its not just her beauty, but everything about her. There seems to be a heavy force knowing inside him to just be with this woman and claim her.
Marco sighed. Being a phoenix means that he also wants to have a mate. Right now, his phoenix's inner self is shouting at him that this woman is his mate, for lifetime. He is quite shocked as he did not expect to meet a woman such as herself in this forest. When he first decided that he need some time alone, away from his responsibilities in their kingdom, he never expected to be able to have an amazing time with someone like her. They enjoyed doing things together, or just plainly talking with each other. They just seems to have various topics they agreed to discuss.
Marco fell asleep thinking of the beauty just right beside him...
Both Ann and Marco woke up early. They looked for breakfast and Marco cooked it because Ann seems to fail in that area. She felt embarrassed. She can cook, yes but only to roast a meat but not the actual dishes they have in their palace. She grew up having someone doing the chores. They never learned how to cook like a professional. they can survive the jungle and that has always been their expertise, but cooking a stew? Nah, she failed in that area.
Good thing Marco just does not mind since he can cook which is a major turn on for her. Damn, he looked good cooking.
Ann never met a person who could ride her pace when it comes to different interests. Marco is different.
Even though they just met the other day, it feels like they've known each other for a lifetime. Was it strange to feel this way? She had never felt something like this before. In all the years, this is the first time that her heart will flutter just by staring at his eyes or just him smiling at her making a fool out of herself.
She remembered how her parents used to tell them that once they found someone they feel like they can spend the rest of their life with, then that person is their mate - for life.
Ann's heart beat loudly in her chest at the thought of Marco as her mate. Can it happen? What if Marco does not feel the same way? she shook her thoughts out of her mind. There is no use of thinking such things now. It is too early to tell. All she have to do is enjoy this company.
That is just the beginning of their friendship. They stayed in the forest for a couple of days. This is the third day they of their exploration and they both knew that they can't stay here for too long. They have to face some of their responsibilities. At least Marco knew that much. He did not even expect that he has to extend his intended time in this hunting ground. This is because of a certain woman. He really wanted to spend more time with her. If possible, he wanted her to come with him to his kingdom, but that will be too much to ask.
"I have to go back to my kingdom, yoi." Marco said as they are currently having their dinner. The words shocked Ann a little, but she should have expected that much.
"I see... That's good, at least you can go back to your hometown." Ann smiled at him, trying to hide her disappointment. Marco also felt disappointed in leaving her.
"We can still communicate, if you wanted to, yoi." Marco said. Ann looked curiously at him.
"Through what?"
"Sending letters?" Ann fell silent for a moment that Marco feared that she might have wanted to say no to his offer. Will she not want to communicate with him again?
"I think that will be a good idea." Marco felt relieved the moment she agreed to it.
Before going back to the Kingdom, Marco gave Ann a bracelet that serves as a tracker for the magical letter they would send each other. The letter will appear whenever they are. They both took separate ways on their way to their respective homes with the thought that they can still communicate with one another. Although they are apart, the bond between the two of them felt real and strong.
Two days after Marco went home, he sent a letter to Ann.
Dear Ann,
I just arrived here at my home. I have so many pending works to do. I hope you have a better day in your end.
- Marco.
Marco does not know what to say so he just sent that letter to Ann through the magical bracelet. Wherever Ann is, the letter should be arriving directly to her. He is hoping she will reply to his letter.
After arriving at the palace, everyone immediately recognized that Marco seems to be happier than before. Marco just shrugged everyone off saying that he got to explore different places in the forest but his family does not really believe him as there is a change in the way he smiles and the way his eyes shine. Is he really that obvious?
After Ann read the letter, she immediately wrote a response. Her heart is beating frantically and she is excited. She already missed hunting with Marco or sparring with him, or just plainly talking to him about anything, mainly how stupid their siblings and relatives are.
Dear Marco,
I am glad you made it home safely. Well, my day is a little better because I get to spend it with my sisters. I hope you have a better evening!
- Ann.
"Ann, you seems to be in a good spirit. Did something happen?" Her dad, the current Emperor asked Ann. She inwardly sweat dropped at the question. She can't just tell him that she met someone at the forest and they have been exchanging letters already. He would surely freak out and switched to Overprotective mode.
"Well, I got to visit different places in the forest and visited Lu's pets."
"Oh, I see. Make sure you don't let them lose. We have to avoid another incident." Ann agreed. Before, Luffia let a huge lion on the lose but it was an accident. She brought the lion inside the palace so they could meet it, but the lion run off after seeing their dad. It run amok in the city causing numerous disasters.
Luffy refused to talk to their dad for a week because she said he scared the lion away.
The moment Ann went inside her bedroom, she immediately saw another letter. She excitedly opened the letter.
Dear Ann,
My day is tiring. I have to deal with my siblings' banters and how they missed pulling pranks against me. Seriously, they have no sense of being subtle at all. Have a safe evening!
- Marco
Ann smiled. She wanted to write a letter, but she would be too obvious. She would just send him a letter tomorrow. She was about to keep the letter in her drawer when out of nowhere, a certain devious princess appeared.
"A letter? Who is it from?"
"Kyah!" Ann squealed, surprised that Luffia appeared out of nowhere.
"Luffia! You scared me to death!"
"But you are alive, so that does not count. You have a letter! Can I read them?"
Uh-oh. This is not really good. A devious Luffia reading the letter will result in many disasters.
"What letter? It's just notes." She said but the growing smile in her sister's face says otherwise. She began to back away from her approaching sister.
"Who is it from? If you won't tell, I will ask Sab." Luffia threatened. Oh no! Luffia alone is devious and troublesome enough! She can't have her meddling twin sister into the loop.
"Sab does not know!" Ann defended. She also wanted to avoid being questioned by Sab because she is too smart and will figure out the rest.
"Who called my name?" Another princess appeared. This sealed Ann's does her sisters keep on appearing out of nowhere to cause troubles for her? She could just imagine the nonstop teasing from here on out.
"Sab! Sab! Ann got a letter! She won't let me read them." Lu pouted like a child being refused to have a candy. She wanted to read the letter as she is so curious. If she won't read it, it will just kill her inside as the curiosity will not subside!
"Oh, so someone got the guts to send a letter to Ann. May I inquire who is it?" Ann has no choice but to tell. they will not let her live it down if she were to deny it. And she told them everything that happened in the forest.
After giving the full details, both had a visible teasing smirks on their face. Ann wanted to hide her face from her sisters. Their devious and teasing smirks irked her nerves but she can't do anything about it.
"Ann is in love~." Lu said and Sab sang together making her look like a tomato now.
"Oh, stop it, will you? We just met. Besides, I don't know if he will like me."
"My god, Andrea! Who wouldn't like you? You are an Imperial princess! A gorgeous one at that. Besides, Marco won't respond a letter if he does not like you." Sab stated making Ann felt a little better. Sometimes, Ann really lacks confidence in some areas ans she needs a little pushing to have more self confidence.
"Ann, can we meet him? Pretty please?" Lu pulled up her ultimate weapon, the puppy eyes. No one can say no to her once they saw her expression. Ann does not want them to meet him too early, but since Luffia pulled her ultimate weapon, Ann already lost the will to say no.
"Ok, fine. But I will ask him first. Then I'll bring you guys along." the sisters cheered at her agreement. Luffia even jumped ion Ann's bed in delight shouting that she is going to meet Marco. After all, she loved to make new friends.
The next day, they constantly write letters to each other. The letter is all about what they are doing and what happenings they experienced in their home town. Ann mentioned to Marco in one of her letters that her sisters wanted to meet him.
Dear Ann,
How are you? I am doing well here. I am glad your sisters want to meet me. It would be my pleasure. I also want you to meet some of my siblings, but unfortunately they are busy. By the way, I will be hunting in two days. If it is not a bother, would you care to join me?
- Marco
Ann blinked at the letter. Is he asking him out? Uh, no. This is just a normal hunting, nothing of the sort Ann is thinking but you never know, he might be asking her out.
"He's asking you out."
"Wah!" Ann nearly ad a heart attack when all of the sudden, a familiar voice was heard beside her. She is currently sitting on her bed. She might be so focused on the letter that she failed to notice the presence of the crowned princess.
"Luffia! Don't just appear anywhere you want!" She chastised. Luffia raised an eyebrow at her as if she said something bad. She looked innocently at Ann as if questioning if she did something so wrong. Well, she can be so naive and stupid at times.
"Why?"
"Why? You scared me to death! Are you giving me a heart attack?"
Luffy blinked owlishly at Ann, as if thinking something serious then she stated flatly:
"But you're alive! I couldn't have scared you to death if you are alive!" Ann just resigned. Sometimes, Luffia is an idiot and no one can really beat her level of idiocy. She could be smart if she wanted to be, actually no one wants that. Her devious attitude is already enough to drive everyone in the palace crazy. Ann is not going to deal with that, thank you very much.
"Whatever. What are you doing here?"
"Reading with you. Is that Marco writing you a letter? He's asking you out! Can I come?" Ann rolled her eyes but she had a faint blush on her cheeks. Apparently her sister's idea of asking someone out is the normal hanging around together. And she wanted to be the third wheel, unfortunately.
"Lu he's just asking me to go hunt with him. He did not mention going on a date. Besides, I don't think he would like someone like me. He's just friendly."
"But everyone likes you! You have so many suitors! Mommy said so. And you're a princess, but I don't think that matters, or does it?" Luffy's innocence is so cute and adorable. She just lightens Ann's mood.
"I don't like those suitors. Plus, he does not know I am an Imperial princess. I did not mention it to him."
"Why not?"
"I just didn't."
After their conversation, Ann wrote a letter back.
Dear Marco,
I am doing well here as well. I am also honored that you want me to meet some of your siblings! In due time, if everyone is not busy. About the hunting, I'll see you in the forest in two days. Be safe!
- Ann
Ann sighed as she sent the letter to Marco. She's excited for their hunt. Usually, she would be excited due to the fact that she can harness her skills, but right now, she is excited to see him. There is a fluttering feeling inside her that won't go away just the thought of seeing Marco.
"Wow, Ann, your face is in cloud nine." Sab commented a day before the hunt. They are currently in the gardens of the palace, relaxing.
"It's because she is seeing Marco again! Isn't it amazing?" Luffy exaggeratedly said. Well, she is right in any case.
"Oh, shut it. It's just a hunt." Ann tried so hard to hide the blush creeping to her face.
Ann did mention that she came from D. Empire and Marco mentioned that he is from Whitebeard Kingdom. He also mentioned the paper works he have to do in his homeland and Ann assumed he is a businessman of some sort or involved in a large company that needs paper works.
Marco met Ann's sisters with a strict rule to never mention their status. Ann does not want to shock Marco into this news. Even though he does not seem to be fazed about royalties and nobilities, still, Ann does not want Marco's treatment to be different just because she is an Imperial princess.
They met Marco in the place where they first met. This brings back memories... Ann brought her two insistent sisters with her. Luffia won't stop bothering her even Sab wanted to come. Good thing not one of their parents asked about why all of the sudden they wanted to go to the forest. Ann is also thankful that Lu did not bust her into telling their dad that they are meeting Ann's pen pal. That is truly a disaster she wanted to avoid.
They saw Marco sitting in a huge rock. They waved at each other.
"He's hot as hell." Sab mentioned making Ann blushed.
"Shut up! He might hear you!"
Sab just shrugged at her. The first one to approach Marco was Lu. She did not introduce herself, but just stared at Marco with owlish eyes making him uncomfortable.
"Lu, stop staring! That's rude!" Sab smacked Lu on her head but she just rubbed the sore part where she was smacked but continued to stare nonetheless.
"His hair looks like pineapple! Hi, pineapple head! My name is Lu!" Ann fought the urged to laugh at Marco. Even Sab held a hard time in being subtle in her chuckle.
"Lu, that is so rude Sorry about that Marco. She's just childish and an idiot." Ann said, but she really is trying her best not to laugh at him.
"That's fine! My siblings usually told me that my hair does look like pineapple though." Marco seems cool with it but it did nit escape Ann's senses at the slight irritation.
"See, Ann, I am right! Right, Pineapple Head?" Lu pouted at Ann to indicate that she is right.
Marco was amused at this but he does not appreciate another person calling him Pineapple Head.
"Well, I prefer it if you would call me Marco."
"But why?" Ok, something is wrong with this woman.
"That is my name, yoi."
Lu thought for a moment before answering.
"Ok, but I still like calling you Pineapple Head though." The twins and Marco sweat dropped at Lu's bluntness.
"Sorry about that. Oh, by the way, this is my twin sister, Sab. Sab, this is Marco."
"Pleased to meet you, Marco. I've heard so much about you from Ann. I heard both of you started exploring the forest."
"Yes, she gave me a tour around here."Sab smirked at the warning look from Ann.
"Oh, that's good. You've been to our secret base then?" Sab inquired.
"Well, yes. We slept in the futons. It was a lot comfortable than sleeping on the ground." He answered.
"So you slept with my sister, then." Sab stated as a matter of fact, baiting Marco to answer the statement.
"Yes, I slept with - " Marco stopped mid-sentence. He realized that his statement can have a double meaning. They technically slept together in the same room, but nothing happened. They just slept.
"Sab…" Ann is warning Sab to stop her mental games of teasing.
"What? I am just curious and confirming my theories and that confirms it. You guys slept together - "
"Ann and Marco slept together?" Out of nowhere, Lu asked. They thought that she was gone exploring the forest, but it seems her keen ears made her go back. Ann swore to kill Sab later on.
"According to both of them." Sab shrugged. It was like she is pushing the matter to Ann and Marco.
"Sab! Lu, we slept inside the room. Technically, just sleeping." Ann is already blushing. Damn her sisters!
"Yeah, that's what Sab said. You guys slept together."
Ann and Marco looked at each other with a little awkwardness.
"Y-Yes, technically. We slept together." Ann can't help but feel a little awkward and embarrassed. Those words coming from her just doesn't feel right.
"That's normal for you guys." Lu shrugged and started walking to a random path where she smells a food.. Her words held a double meaning but she said it flatly. Sab chuckled because her mental game worked too great.
"See. Normal." Sab started following Lu leaving Marco and Ann together.
Ann looked at Marco with an apologetic look and it makes her blush even more.
"I'll kill her later." She said to herself and followed her sisters, Marco not far behind.
For two months, they have been exchanging letters and sometimes, they would meet to hunt in the forest. They are getting to know each other better, well not entirely because neither knows that the other are a member of royal family.
Along those time that they getting to know each other, neither can deny the attraction they felt for each other.
"Be safe." Ann muttered to Marco. He is already leaving to go back home after spending a whole day with Ann.
"You too." He said. They just stared at each other, like in a sort of trance. Blue eyes locked with dark grey ones. Their attraction is too strong that they are being pulled by each other until their lips met.
It is an enchanting kiss that they both have been longing for so long. Upon the first contact, they both sighed as if relieved that at long last, this is happening.
Their kiss grew more passionate, filled with emotions they have been holding for months now. It's like an explosion of mixed emotions. After a few minutes of mind blowing kiss, they parted, breaths are heavy, but they have contentment.
"I'm gonna miss you, Ann."
"Me too, Marco." Ann snuggled at Marco's embrace. Marco embraced her tighter.
"This is making me crazy. I wish I could just kidnap you and take you with me, because after that kiss, I don't think I could just live another day without seeing you or feeling you beside me."
Ann smiled with the idea. She might be a willing victim, but there are things they still have to settle and besides, kidnapping her is not a good idea even if she is willing. She could just imagine the freaked out reaction from her father. She shuddered at the imagination. Not to mention her shitty gramps. Yep, if anyone is to overreact aside from the current emperor, it is the previous emperor which is Monkey D. Garp.
"I don't think that is a good idea no matter how tempting it is. I also want to know what it's like in your place, or what life you have there, but we still have matters to settle."
They agreed to just constantly write letters. They have a silent agreement about this relationship. Even with no words spoken, they knew that they belong with each other. They knew they have found their mates.
On Marco's side, it did not escape from her family how happy he looks whenever he goes for a hunt in the the Forest near their borders. If he is not happy, he have that longing look in his eyes that states he is missing someone. He really misses Ann badly. He wished he could just be together with her.
During the Royal Family dinner, Izou opened up about the annual ball that is coming next week. That ball is held every year, as a tradition to every nobilities. It is a very huge gathering of royalties from different countries, so long as those countries are peaceful.
This ball is held as a sort of peace event for every nation. And in a way, this ball has become a way for nobilities to meet someone from another country and eventually became their official ones. Supernatural creatures of different sorts are gathering. Most of the nobilities seeking wives or husbands which are member of nobilities as well are coming to the ball. Either out of love or influence, it does not matter.
This year, the ball is being held by the Whitebeard Family. It will happen in their Moby Dick Palace's Grand Ballroom.
"You know Marco, maybe you could send the ball invitation to that woman you have been constantly meeting at that forest." Marco should not be surprised that Izou knew of his activities the past two months. It is a matter of time before they would say something about it.
"You seems to be falling for her." Pops, or King Edward also commented.
"Well, I really wanted to invite her, but she does not know of my status yet."
"And, why, pray tell, did you not mention that big detail?" Izou asked. Some of his siblings are already expecting answers from Marco.
"I don't know. I am just afraid that she might hate me for being nobility or something like that, yoi." Marco has been having second thoughts about it. When he was thinking about his position, if given by a circumstance, should he be given an option to choose between being the crowned prince or be with Ann, he is sure as hell he would choose to be with her regardless.
"That's stupid! If she really likes you, she would accept you for who you are. Just try. This might be a challenge for both of you, but if both of you are meant for each other, then everything would work fine in the end." Thatch informed Marco and the blond prince nodded. Thatch has a point about this matter. He can try. Besides, Ann never stated that she really hated nobles. Maybe some of them are pissing her off, but surely not all.
"By the way Marco, is she hot?" Haruta casually asked at the blond making him splutter.
"W-what?" Marco contemplated if he just heard it wrong.
"Is she hot? Or beautiful?" Marco fought the blush on his face, but thinking of Ann, he seemed proud of her. He is sure she would fit in the family.
"She's one of a kind and yes, she is breathtakingly beautiful."
After those advises, Marco immediately wrote a letter to Ann with an invitation to the ball. Of course it took him days before he composed a good letter to send to Ann. It's just 5 days before the ball. He is hoping she would come.
Dear Ann,
I know there are things we don't know about each other, but being with you, it seems that I've known you since forever. I can't be sure if our differences will hinder our feelings for each other, but I think I have to find out if it is. I will have faith in my feelings for you, as well as your feelings for me.
One of the things I never got to tell you is about my status. I wanted to tell you in person, but I am afraid of what reaction it might result in, so I am writing in this letter. Forgive me for not telling you about my real status in Whitebeard Kingdom. I am Newgate Marco, son of King Newgate Edward, prince of Whitebeard Kingdom. I am hoping this won't change your feelings for me.
For long, I wanted you to meet my family. And to say I am nervous is an understatement. There is a ball coming in 5 days here in our kingdom. I want you to come to meet my family. They are excited to meet you. There is an invitation along with this letter. I am hoping you would come to the ball.
- Love, Marco
Ann stared at the letter for so long. To say she is shocked is an understatement. She never expected this. But, she is not mad at Marco. In fact, she admired his courage and his honesty. And anyways, he is not the only one who has the hidden status. In fact, they are in the same situation!
Anyways, her main concern is the other matter. It's the invitation to the ball!
"Then go! Why not? Isn't it amazing if you surprise Marco that you are also a princess? That is perfect!" Sab suggested but in fact, she is just making her sister go so that she would have a company upon confronting a certain red haired king from the South Blue Kingdom.
"You are telling me that because you also wanted to go to the ball. But you know what? You're right! We can go. This would be the first time we will appear in the ball." Ann told Sab and the blond princess nodded.
"Then all of us can go!" Ann and Sab nodded in agreement at the suggestion of the other voice. The twin princess blinked for a few times before turning to a certain grinning princess who just appeared out of nowhere.
"Don't just appear out of nowhere Lu!" They both chastised but the youngest of the sisters just shrugged it off.
"But wait, you will go to the ball as well?" Sab asked.
"Yes. Both of you are coming, so I am coming too! That should be fun."
They all nodded at each other.
"So, we just have to mention this in dinner." Ann suggested.
"Yes, but we have to be careful not to freak Dad out. We also don't want to have Mom exaggerate things." Sab stated carefully planning out the script, but if you are a D, scripts and plans does not work.
Oh well, so long as they get to the ball that would be fine… Ann is just excited for the ball. She will write a reply to Marco after dinner... Their meeting in the ball will surely be exciting and she cannot wait to get his reaction...