Disclaimer: All characters and plot ideas are the property of their respective owners, no copyright infringement is intended. The original plot and characters are my own.
Chapter 35
As the last days before the wedding came, Garrett was surprised to see the royal carriage of Masen arriving three days before they were expected. Word spread through the castle, Edward, Isabella, and the council went out to meet their neighbor and newest ally.
The carriage pulled to a stop, a few less impressive vehicles stopping behind them as the footman quickly opened the door for his sovereign. King Peter exited the carriage, reaching behind him to offer his queen some assistance.
Isabella watched in fascination as Peter kept hold of his wife's hand, bringing it to his lips before he tucked it into the crook of his arm. Their belongings were unloaded as the other carriages emptied to reveal their household staff.
Edward took Isabella's hand and led her forward to meet her brother and sister-in-law. "My Dear, this is King Peter of Masen and his wife, Queen Charlotte. Brother, sister, this is my betrothed, Princess Isabella of Swan Lake."
"A pleasure, Your Majesties," Isabella said with the smallest of curtsies.
Charlotte reached forward taking both of Isabella's hands and pulling her close. "None of that, we are family. Now let us leave the men for a while and get to know one another better."
Edward watched as Isabella was led away, scowling when Peter laughed. "Fear not, you will see her before the hunt."
"The hunt?" Edward asked.
"Yes, we'll celebrate your impending marriage by taking you out into the wood. Tomorrow morning we will depart and we will camp rough, returning late the night before your wedding. It is tradition, you cannot refuse."
"Very well, I will enjoy some time with you before you return to Masen," Edward admitted.
"Excellent, come, let us go to your study and set the members of the hunting party," Peter urged.