Chapter 7: A Fork in the Road
Several months passed and MK's lessons were finally finished and upon Countess Rocha's approval, there was to be a ball with future potential Kings for the forest, which MK wasn't to happy about.
"What? A future potential king? I thought you were believers in there being one Queen of the Forest, why does there now have to be a king?" MK protested as Countess Rocha crossed her arms.
"Because we've heard word from a reputable source that the pod will no longer choose our future queen. Drastic measures must be taken and now that you have, mostly, mastered your powers you need to get married and produce an heir!" Countess Rocha said sternly as Ronin massaged his temples.
"Look, I know this isn't the best way to go about things, but how about you at least keep an open mind about it? We'll have the ball in a month or two and for now if there are any humanoids interested, we can simply meet him and see what he's like." Ronin said as he looked about the room at the Counsel.
"Fine." Countess Rocha waved her hand.
"I don't see anything wrong with that, but he must be wise." Count Foyre nodded.
"Why did it have to come to this, the forest ought to be the one to decide, this is so . . . archaic. But I think that MK should decide on who is a good choice and they ought to rule together." Nim Galuu sighed.
"I don't like this. MK is her own person, she's worked so hard and now we're reducing her to a queen only to bear an heir to the thrown." Nod spoke out against the majority decision for MK to search for a king.
"Thank you Nod, but I can't just think of myself. Please, Counsel, allow me to sleep on this. I will keep an open mind and I promise I will always keep the best interest the forest and its inhabitants in mind." MK looked around at the table as everyone agreed.
MK and Nod walked out into her garden as she began to pace about, her lavender colored dress waving with each steps as she walked around barefoot.
"MK, you should sit down. We'll figure something out." Nod slowly approached her as MK grumbled.
"This is so ridiculous, what are we living in, Elizabethan times!? I never imagined this would happen, but Zeneba did warn me." MK tried her best not to curse, but Nod wasn't having this.
"MK, stop!" Nod wrapped his arms around MK to prevent her from pacing about.
"Nod, what am I going to do? I'm still only seventeen, I'm not ready for married life. I wasn't even ready to be a queen." MK held him close as he hushed her and was gently petting her head, minding her flower-crown.
"I know, things are difficult right now, but I promise I'll protect you. I'll make sure you live a happy life. We'll figure something out ok? Who knows, maybe you'll meet your dream guy." Nod teased as MK rolled her eyes.
"You know, you're the only one that manages to calm me down." MK kissed his cheek as Nod flushed.
"Thanks, I mean you're welcome? Or um, I don't know anymore." Nod cupped her face as MK leaned into him.
"I don't know what I'd do without you." MK breathed as she stared deeply into his dark eyes.
"Let's just hope you'll never have to, because honestly I think that would be insufferable on both ends." Nod smirked as MK nodded and pulled away slowly. They sat in silence for a while as their fingers brushed against each other. The two had flushed cheeks as they had great difficulty looking each other in the eye.
Nod walked MK back to her room as she asked him to stay the night with her. Rose overheard and fisted her hands, she stormed off, nearly bumping into Lily.
"Woah! Rose, be more careful!" Lily nearly fell when Ronin caught her. Lily looked up at him and flushed.
"You alright?" Ronin asked.
"I'm fine, thank you." Lily stood up as Ronin's hands remained on her delicate shoulders for a brief moment. She felt his warmth resonating on her skin.
"Right then, I uh have to go keep watch." Ronin scratched the back of his head. Lily nodded, going back to her work.
"Nod, could you get my slippers?" MK asked, she got out of the bath and put her sheer teal colored nightgown on with a silk robe over it.
"Here you go." Nod put her slippers down. MK thanked him.
"Hmm, I'm kind of hungry. Do we have any chocolate?" MK asked; Nod shrugged.
"Let's go see shall we?" Nod put his hand out as MK took it and the two made their way to the kitchen.
"Found some!" MK walked to the wooden table and placed a box of chocolates down as Nod smirked.
"I know this sounds crazy, but I can't think of the last time I had some chocolates!" Nod scratched the back of his head. MK looked at him in shock.
"What really?"
"Yea, Leafman have to stay in good shape." Nod shrugged as MK laughed.
"Oh yea, because you're so buff." MK laughed as Nod blushed.
"Hey! I'm strong." Nod stuck out his tongue.
"Oh, sure." MK shrugged.
"A lot stronger than you!" Nod stood up as MK walked up to him and looked him straight in the eye.
"Prove it." MK crossed her arms.
"With pleasure." Nod picked up MK with ease as she wrapped her arms around him as their faces were close together. If MK even remotely moved her lips, they would brush against Nod's, thus her face turned bright red when Nod held her tightly as MK swallowed. Nod watched her, sliding her down his body when her feet gracefully touched the floor until she was standing in front of him. The two stood there in silence as MK reluctantly pulled away.
"I-I guess you're right." MK tucked her hair behind her ear as Nod turned bright red, his eyes half-lidded.
"Nod, why are you looking at me like that?" MK breathed as Nod chuckled.
"I can't believe it isn't obvious to you yet." Nod reached out for her hands as MK's heart stopped.
"You can't be serious. Not after that conversation we just had with the Counsel." MK's brows furrowed.
"And you can't pretend that you don't feel this . . . crazy tension and energy between us. I, I can't stop thinking about you. I dream about you every night. I can't stand not being around you, making sure you're safe, and it's not because I'm your personal bodyguard. It's because I care for you, a lot, maybe even lo-"
"Don't. Please don't, that would make this impossibly harder than it already is. You know the expectations the Counsel have for me. And the forest and its inhabitants depend on me. I can't make a selfish decision like this. I can't put my happiness before the wellbeing of this place and its people. It would be incredibly selfish and an act of treason against everything I've been training for." MK gently pulled her hands away as Nod's heart sank.
"You can't tell me you're just going to push your feelings aside. I know how important it is to be Queen of the Forest and to take care of its people, but you're human. You have feelings, emotions. You're allowed to fall in love." Nod reached out for MK when she turned away.
"No. Nod, I, I think we're both just tired." MK smiled awkwardly as Nod scoffed.
"Right. Duty and discipline. Who cares about what my heart's telling me." Nod stormed off to his room as MK sighed, walking to her room slowly as she closed the door and leaned against it, sliding down to the floor as she held her head.
"MK, are you alright?" Lily popped her head in. MK looked up at her.
"Lily, I think I just made a mistake." MK sniffled as Lily held her.
"Do you want to talk about it?" Lily rubbed MK's back as she nodded.
MK talked herself to sleep as Lily tucked her in and walked out.
"Everything alright Lily? You're up awfully late." Ronin looked at her with worry as she sighed.
"It's her majesty, she's simply facing a rather difficult situation. It's the Counsel and their recommendation for MK to get married. She's still so young Ronin." Lily looked deeply into his eyes as he nodded.
"I know. It's a huge responsibility, but I'm sure she understands that it's only in the best interest of the forest and its people."
"Ronin, you of all people know how the heart cannot be deceived. MK has feelings for Nod, and they're reciprocated. We know they're keeping things as professional and platonic as possible, but they have shared moments of a certain affection and caring for one another. You'd have to be blind to miss it. Please tell me you'll consider their feelings in all this."
"Lily, I can't do that. As a member of the Counsel, and leader of the Leafman, I can't let my emotions get in the way of making command decisions." Ronin furrowed his brows as Lily sighed and shook her head.
"I'm so sorry for what you had to go through, and that you believe whole-heartedly that emotions are a distraction rather than a crucial part of who you are. Don't doubt your gut feeling and your emotions." Lily gently placed her hand on Ronin's as he flushed slightly.
"I hate to admit you being right, and you and I both know I won't admit I was wrong. Let's just see how it goes shall we? Nod has been maturing, but I don't know if he'd able to step up to the role of being a king. He's able to take care of himself sure, but another person together with an entire kingdom?" Ronin looked Lily in the eye as she blinked at him.
"Well, I can't say you're wrong, but he just may surprise you." Lily winked as she got up and walked to her room, her heart swelling as she smiled to herself the whole night.
The following morning, MK was in search for some strong coffee. MK rubbed her eyes, which were swollen from crying herself to sleep.
"Morning." Nod walked in wearing only a pair of loose pants as MK's mouth dropped.
"M-morning." MK poured some milk in her coffee and stirred in some sugar as she went into her garden for some privacy.
"Of course he has a perfect six pack with no fat on him, super toned and looks like a fricking Greek god." MK face-palmed herself as she drank her coffee and sat next to a blooming orange tree as she heard the ground crunching. She turned to see Nod walking towards her.
"Hey, I know you probably came over here to get some privacy, but I just wanted to apologize for yesterday. I shouldn't have reacted that way. I know you're under a lot of pressure. I was just caught up in the moment. I really don't want things to be awkward." Nod scratched the back of his head, then sipped on his coffee.
"Nod, thanks, I appreciate that. I agree, things got a little out of hand." MK looked away, but then looking back to catch a glimpse of his abs as she blushed.
"Like what you see?" Nod winked as MK pouted.
"Don't try to act all flirty." MK smiled as she drank her coffee and Nod sat next to her.
"So, I guess you'll be planning that ball now hu?" Nod leaned back as MK nodded.
"That's the plan. Countess Rocha wants to get me fitted for a dress in order to impress future potential kings or whatever." MK rolled her eyes as Nod grit his teeth.
"Oh? I'm sure she'll pick something modest."
"I don't know, she did mention having it fit rather snugly, she said it's still important to have my 'womanly charm accentuated.' So in normal terms, she wants me to wear more along the lines of a mermaid style dress." MK crossed her legs as Nod's eyes traveled over her body and lingering on her perfectly toned legs.
"Nod, my eyes are up here." MK teased as Nod flushed, looking away for a moment as he looked back at her face.
"Sorry, you just look really good in this lighting. Maybe you should have your portrait painted." Nod joked as MK laughed, pushing against him as they laughed together. They drank their coffee and managed to have a semi normal conversation when Nod finally leaned towards MK as she smiled up at him. Once again like a magnetic force, they were drawn together as MK tucked her hair behind her ear, clearly a nervous habit.
"Can I tell you a little secret?" Nod asked as MK nodded.
"I can't stop thinking about kissing you right now, and the fact that you keep leaning into me is not helping the situation." Nod sighed as MK pulled away slightly.
"I'm sorry. I don't mean to be leading you on or anything." MK sat up as Nod groaned.
"Don't, don't make that face please. I just, can't keep telling myself that I don't feel attracted to you. I want to protect you because it's my job, but being around you just makes me feel like I want to be a better person. I just really really like you and I admire how brave and dedicated you are." Nod reached out for MK's hand as he placed a gentle kiss on it.
"I just want you to be happy, even if that means me not being the King of the Forest, I want to be by your side."
"You saying that just makes this decision harder. Huhh, friends?" MK put her hand out as Nod agreed, taking her hand as the two got up and went to get dressed.
MK met with Countess Rocha as Nod was standing in the corner of the room. MK was wearing a simple white dress as her measurements were taken. It would take nearly one month for the dress to be made, thus they needed to get started on it now in order for it to be finished before the night of the ball.
The days turned to weeks and Nod found himself fully dedicated to his job and managing to keep a platonic yet professional relationship with MK, though on the night of the ball, things took a turn. Upon seeing the glowing aura surrounding MK radiating like the light of a thousand suns, Nod couldn't focus fully on his job.
MK had on a white shimmering gown that hugged every curve of her body, exposing her back, the center of her chest, arms, and her right leg (ending just at the mid-section of her thigh). Nod grounded his teeth down as MK's flower crown complimented her complexion as well as her ruby-red stained lips. The potential suitors flocked around her like moths to a flame, though she showed no particular interest in any of them and after a few hours of socializing (and receiving much criticism), she needed alone time. Nod followed MK to her secret garden where no one else but she and Nod were allowed.
"I'm suffocating out there." MK sighed as Nod walked up to her.
"You want to head to bed? Maybe tell them you're not feeling well?"
"No, I can't do that, some of these royals came from a three days' journey to get out here. I just, can't take any of them seriously. I mean, they're more interested in how the pod picked me rather than how they can help better protect this forest and my people." MK fisted her hands as she sat down.
"And my feet are actually killing me." MK pulled up her skirts as her sore feet were throbbing in her heels.
"Why are you wearing them if they're uncomfortable?" Nod knelt down, ready to take off her shoes when she stopped him.
"It's not that, it's from the dancing. A lot of those 'suitors' kept stepping on my feet. They're terrible! Maybe Countess Rocha should give them some lessons in dancing." MK crossed her arms as Nod chuckled.
"You know; you're doing great out there. I think I would've decked someone by now if I were in your shoes." Nod smirked as MK giggled. The two chatted for a while as MK looked up at the sky and sighed. Nod held her hand and kissed the back of it as MK smiled at him.
"Did I tell you how beautiful you look?" Nod asked as MK shook her head.
"And did I tell you how distinguished you look in your Leafman uniform? I like the all black color, looks really intimidating and tough." MK made a serious face as Nod chuckled.
"Ronin's idea." Nod shrugged as MK felt the armor on his chest.
"It's nice, he has good taste." MK unknowingly leaned in as Nod blinked his eyes at her as MK placed a quick kiss on his cheek.
"What was that for?" He smirked as she shrugged.
"I guess it was just a thanks for being my friend." MK stood as she made her way back towards the ballroom, Nod not too far behind her.
There was one final dance of the night, to which MK was obligated to dance, though she wasn't in the mood for it. One tall princely looking figure walked over towards her with an air of confidence as he bowed low, his dark curls covering his blue eyes as he stood up and held out his hand. MK did a small curtsy and nodded as they walked to the dance floor. MK somewhat enjoyed herself; the music was soft and romantic, but this "princely" figure's hands were getting far too low for MK's comfort, thus she pulled them up to the center of her back when suddenly she felt a light tap on her backside. Just as she was about to protest the indecent and unwarranted behavior, both Nod and a knight in shining armor figure emerged.
"Unhand the Queen you scoundrel!" A deep and firm voice echoed the ballroom as MK was pulled away by Nod.
"You ok?" He asked as MK nodded her head.
"Oh look, if it isn't the elf. Aren't you supposed to be off sprinkling fairy dust somewhere other than here? Last I heard, you weren't even allowed in this forest." The princely figure snapped.
"I'll have you know the transgressions of my ancestors has nothing to do with me. I am my own person and was invited by the Counsel as a potential suitor for the Queen. I was honored to receive an invitation and have hopes of impressing her Majesty, but I would never disrespect her as you just did!" The elf snarled as MK blushed.
"She's just a human." The princely figure shrugged as the music stopped playing.
"Just a human? And I'm just an elf, what does that have to do with anything?"
"I'm sure she's used to this in the human world. I've heard all sorts of rumors of how human girls have loose morals." The "princely" figure looked over at MK and winked as she cringed.
"How dare you! You know nothing of the human world or its people. How can you make an assumption on one person based off of backwoods gossip!? The Queen is a respectable woman who has been working hard to know the laws of the forest as well as mastering her powers. She cares for her people and is keeping their best interests before her own." The two continued back and forth banter when Ronin finally arrived and split them up, sending the "princely" figure away as the elf walked over to MK. She was stunned at his beauty. He had porcelain skin with long pointed ears protruding out of his silky blond hair, he was toned and tall with passionate green eyes staring into hers. He had on white armor that was lightweight and easy to move in.
"Your Royal Highness, I apologize for my outburst, it was never my intention to ruin this festive occasion." He knelt down as he took MK's hand and kissed it.
"Oh, well, that's ok. I mean thanks for sticking up for me and putting that creep in his place. What's your name?"
"Prince Aragorn." He bowed low.
"Like from The Lord of the Rings?" MK giggled.
"I'm sorry, I haven't had the pleasure to meet this Lord of the Rings, is he an associate of yours?" Prince Aragorn asked as MK blushed.
"Oh no, sorry I was talking about a book series, you know what never mind."
"Ah, I see so it's a human reference is it? My mother named me after my great great-grandfather who was always called a reverend king. So I suppose one could say there are high expectations of me."
"Wow, and I thought I had a unique name, but yours is so amazingly beautiful." MK inwardly cringed at her own awkwardness as she blushed. Prince Aragorn's lip twitched as he bashfully scratched the back of his head.
"Ahem." Nod cleared his throat as MK had realized she had completely forgotten he was standing behind her.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Nod this is-" MK turned to Nod to introduce the two as Nod snarled.
"Prince Aragorn, it's a pleasure to see you again." Nod held out his hand as he firmly shook Prince Aragorn's hand.
"Always a pleasure." Prince Aragorn smiled as MK stood there twiddling her fingers.
"You two know each other?" MK looked between the two of them as her curiosity was piqued.
"Indeed, Nod and I used to work together." Prince Aragorn smirked as Nod shrugged.
"Yea and I used to date his sister." Nod flushed at the memory as MK felt a slight stinging pain in the pit of her stomach as she held her breath for a moment.
"Oh, well, let's continue the dance shall we? Then I think I'll retire for the night." MK let out a small sigh as the band continued to play a romantic tune.
"Would you care to dance with me your Highness?" Prince Aragorn bowed low as he slowly put out his right hand as MK nodded.
The two walked away as Nod went into a dark corner of the room to sulk.
"You know, with you brooding over here the corner, I'd take it you're a little jealous?" Ronin walked over and leaned against the wall with his arms crossed as Nod mumbled to himself.
"Hmm, you know she'll have to marry eventually and you'll only be her bodyguard, it's best not to get too attached." Ronin unfolded his arms as he gently patted Nod's shoulder.
"You know, I'm so sick of everyone trying to tell me what's best. I still think MK should make her own decision and the fact that the Counsel decided on is ridiculous. The more I think about it the more disgusted I am, she's only seventeen. She's doing the best she can and it's only fair that she's allowed to be happy."
"Nod, I understand that, but I don't think you're just saying this out of MK's best interest, I think you'd rather have her happy with you." Ronin sighed as Nod blushed.
"Ronin, I would never make her choose me, but I'm also not going to lie to her about how I feel. That's the difference between you and me, I'm not afraid to express my emotions."
"No Nod, you're not afraid to express your emotions, which always get you into trouble. You're just a child and you have a lot to learn before you're able to take care of yourself, let alone an entire kingdom. I hope you prove me wrong." Ronin went to pat Nod on the shoulder when Nod stood erect.
"Nod, I'm pretty tired, walk me to my chambers?" MK asked as Nod agreed, clearing his throat as he walked beside MK.
"Well that was eventful." MK blushed as Nod simply looked ahead of him.
"Nod, you feeling ok?" MK stood in his way as he shrugged.
"Fine. Your Majesty." Nod moved passed MK as she nearly fell over in shock.
"Nod, since when are you so formal with me?" MK caught up to him quickly.
"I am your bodyguard and I should treat you with the upmost respect. It would be the mature thing to do." Nod glanced down at MK for a moment, who had a worried look on her face.
"Nod, I don't want you to act 'mature' and respectable. I want you to be my friend." MK looked at him with such sadness, it nearly broke his heart.
"Don't, just not that face. I swear, you're going to get me in trouble one of these days." Nod sighed as MK perked up.
"Come on, let's go for a walk outside."
"I thought you were tired?"
"I am, but clearly you need some cheering up, and I know the only thing that'll work."
Thus the two went outside as MK found herself yawning. MK and Nod mounted a deer as they chatted, their talking becoming slightly more slurred each minute since they felt the relaxing ride was causing them to feel sleepy.
"Nod, we should really get back." MK yawned for the millionth time as she leaned on his shoulder.
"I know. I can't even keep my eyes open anymore."
"Hmm, me too. I feel like I might fall off." MK felt herself slipping away as Nod quickly put his arm around her as MK's eyes shot open. She looked up at him as Nod's face was a few inches from hers.
"I'm suddenly not so tired anymore." Nod's eyes were hazy and filled with desire as MK flushed.
"Me too." She reached her hand up as she gently brushed his face with her fingertips as Nod sucked in air.
"MK, don't." Nod kissed her hand as he began to pull away when she stopped him.
"All night I kept wishing I was with you. I was watching you all evening and hated the fact that I had to dance with all those horrible princes. Prince Aragorn was nice, but he's not really my type. I'm sure Countess Rocha would love him, but I'm not so sure myself. I keep thinking about what you said and have been considering what will make me happy. And you make me happy Nod." MK cupped his face as she kissed him. Nod was frozen for a moment until his instincts took over and he leaned into the kiss, wrapping his arms around her waist as hers were tangled in his hair. MK moaned slightly as Nod's tongue slipped inside. They both held their breath as MK's heart rate quickened while Nod's fingers traced lines up and down her side as MK sucked in air. The two continued kissing until they had finally arrived back at the palace. Nod walked MK to her room as he closed the door behind him.
"That was-"
"Amazing?" MK blushed as Nod agreed.
"I can't, I can't pretend that didn't happen."
"I don't want you to. But there's just a couple of problems: the Counsel and Prince Aragorn. I'm sure the latter won't be a problem, but convincing the Counsel about us won't be so easy." MK looked rather serious as Nod agreed.
"I guess I'll have to start my own training." Nod ruffled his hair as MK nodded.
"But you know what, I think you're going to make a great king. And I'm the Queen after all? I can make the final decision right?" MK crossed her arms as Nod blushed.
"Look at you, finally owning the fact that you're Queen of the Forest." Nod smirked as MK giggled.
"Well, I don't like to let the position get to my head, but I have to follow my heart and be mindful of my decisions. And so long as you remain loyal and continue to better yourself, I don't doubt you in the slightest. Let's keep working at this together ok?" MK walked up to Nod as she hugged him.
"Got it. Now, let's get these torturous shoes off you now." Nod hugged her back, lifting her up and putting her on the bed as he knelt down and took her shoes off. Butterflies fluttered in MK's stomach as she watched Nod kiss her feet lovingly as her entire face and tips of her ears turned bright red as Nod got up and sat beside her.
"C-can you help me with my zipper?" MK asked as she slowly stood up as Nod walked over to her and pulled down her zipper as he kissed the space between her shoulder blades as MK held her breath. MK turned around as she held her dress up.
"I'd, I'd better go." Nod turned bright red as MK nodded.
"Or, you could stay." MK was surprised at her suggestion as Nod turned abruptly, nearly stumbling as MK swallowed.
"I, I don't think that's such a great idea." Nod rubbed the back of his head.
"I know it's probably not, but I just don't want you to go." MK reached out for Nod as her dress slipped down slightly, exposing the whiteness of the top of her breasts as Nod looked away.
"We, we might do something we'll regret later. And I'm trying to be more mature right? How about you go and put something more comfortable on, like PJs and I'll go get this armor off ok?" Nod slowly looked back at her as MK had pulled her dress up and nodded.
"OK, I get that, and I appreciate you being so mature." MK smiled as she quickly kissed his cheek, getting up to change as Nod quickly went to his room to take off his armor. Nod walked back as he felt his palms sweating; he lightly knocked on the door as MK opened it and let him in.
The evening was peaceful and fairly uneventful. MK and Nod simply talked with each other, holding hands as MK turned her back towards Nod, before falling asleep, rubbed his thumb over the top of her shoulder as they drifted off to sleep. The next morning Rose walked in on them and nearly screamed as tears filled her eyes and she ran abruptly out of the room.
"Rose, what's wrong?" Marigold asked as Daisy walked behind her carrying fresh linens.
"What was all that about?" Daisy shrugged as Lily was walking upright with a smile on her face, coming in from the opposite direction.
"Good morning fellow handmaidens. Where's Rose?" Lily looked around as Marigold told her what had happened.
"Oh dear, well we'll let her be for now. Let's get the sheets changed, put the fresh towels out and-" Lily walked in as she stopped dead in her tracks, turned around and pushed Marigold and Daisy out of the room.
"What?" Marigold looked back at Lily as she was clearly flushed.
"Why can't we go in there?" Daisy had a confused expression as Lily looked down for a moment, clearing her throat as she took the linens and towels.
"You two go and get some breakfast started and make coffee. I'll take care of this." Lily said in a stern tone as the other two shrugged and did what they were told.
"Ahem, MK, it's time to get up." Lily knocked loudly as MK twitched and her eyes shot open as she was face-to-face with Nod. She observed his features as he was breathing slow, his long dark lashes curling up slightly as they rested over his cheeks. MK rested her chin on her hands as she watched him for a moment, counting the faint freckles across his face. She slowly lifted her index finger and traced his nose as she smiled. His brown hair was slightly curled and covering his eyes, she pushed it back and he slowly opened his eyes.
"Hey, morning." Nod blinked as MK kissed his lips as Nod held her close.
"Morning sleepyhead. Lily's been knocking at the door; we'd better get up. I want to meet with the Counsel soon." MK kissed Nod again as he held her closer, deepening the kiss as MK giggled.
"Seriously Nod, we need to get up." MK pulled away slightly as Nod reluctantly let her go.
"Fine, fine." Nod sat up as he watched MK make her way to her wardrobe. She pulled out a simply green colored dress.
"I'm gonna go wash up really quick." MK looked over her shoulder, Nod nodded his head, walking over to the door and letting Lily in.
"Good morning Nod." Lily smiled as Nod blushed, wishing her a good morning as he made his way to his room to change.
Nod and MK walked into the Counsel meeting quarters arm-in-arm as Ronin, Count Foyre, Nim Galuu, and Countess Rocha looked at them rather shocked.
"What's this?" Countess Rocha asked as MK stood before them, still holding onto Nod's arm firmly.
"I have made my decision as Queen of the Forest to make Nod the future King of the Forest."
"I beg your pardon highness?" Countess Rocha's voice came out sternly as her last "s" was drawn out for a few seconds.
"And you made this decision on your own without conversing with the Counsel first?" Count Foyre sounded rather surprised.
"I took a great amount of time contemplating this. Nod knows the forest like no one else does. He has a great understanding of it and its people. I believe he will make a great King."
"Can Nod lead a fleet of Leafmen let alone all those residing in the forest? Can he make life or death decisions posthaste? Can he manage to have peaceful delegations with others? Is he even mature enough to take on this amount of responsibility?" Countess Rocha stood up after asking the first question and continued to raise her voice in a crescendo as she closed off the sound at the back of her throat. Her eyes enlarged as she looked at Nod ferociously.
"You can't expect him to learn all that overnight! And as I said, I have the upmost faith in him. Just at I learned how to be a queen, so will Nod learn to be a king!"
"Hah! Faith? You expect to rely on your faith in him? This is precisely why we don't allow those in positions of authority to rule with their feelings. Something trifle indeed." Countess Rocha sat down as Ronin began massaging his temples.
"I don't agree with you Countess Rocha. There's nothing wrong with emotions, or having faith in someone." Nim Galuu looked over at her as she huffed and crossed her arms.
"I too see nothing wrong with emotions, though at this point and time I cannot say I approve of her majesty deciding this without at least trying to present the idea first. I honestly don't see Nod making a good King of the Forest, I believe his job of being the Queen's bodyguard is far more important and something he's done fairly well at." Count Foyre looked rather sorrowfully at Nod.
"I, I must speak my peace." Ronin stood as everyone turned towards him.
"I have known Nod a long time, and I must say I agree with Count Foyre. Nod is just too young to take on such a position as King. Please understand that I mean no offense." Ronin looked over at Nod who seemed unfazed on the outside, but inwardly his confidence was chipping away as he shrank further and further into himself. Nod let his hand slip, but MK held onto his tightly.
"Well, I may not have known Nod nearly long as you have Ronin, but I still think he's matured a great deal since I've met him and I know he will do well." MK said confidently as Countess Rocha slammed her hand down.
"I say we have a vote. I say that Prince Aragorn is to be the future King of the Forest." Countess Rocha argued as Count Foyre cleared his throat.
"I second that vote." Count Foyre's voice rang out.
"I also agree." Ronin looked up with pained eyes as he agreed.
"I disagree!" Nim Galuu slammed his hand down.
"I also disagree!" MK said rather loudly and passionately.
"It's no use, you two have been outvoted." Countess Rocha stood up and walked towards MK and Nod.
"You two may think this is some sort of fairytale where you live happily ever after as you rule the kingdom together, but it's not! Life is filled with painful decisions. You're just lucky Prince Aragorn is as kind and caring as he is handsome. He will make a fine king, and one day you will thank me for this." Countess Rocha's eyes sharpened as MK flinched.
"Good day highness." Countess Rocha curtsied as she walked out of the room.
"I have faith in Prince Aragorn, I'm sure you will too soon enough." Count Foyre got up, bowed and walked out.
"I'm so sorry your highness." Nim Galuu looked solemn as he bowed and walked out.
"Nod I'm-"
"Save it Ronin!" Nod turned and stormed out as MK ran after him when Rose stopped her.
"I think he's been through enough today." Rose said rather firmly as MK's eyes began to well up.
MK remained in her room for the next two days as Nod too found himself unable to leave his room, but he made sure to keep an eye on MK's location. Once these two days of darkness had passed, Prince Aragon was asked by Countess Rocha to move into the castle.
"Lily, please take Prince Aragorn to his chambers and help him unpack, the rest of you tell her highness to get dressed and come down to dinner." Countess Rocha commanded as Lily, Rose, Daisy, and Marigold nodded and rain towards their respected directions. Prince Aragorn's chambers were on the other side of the palace near where the servants' quarters, in order to make sure they obey his every order.
"MK?" Rose opened the door as MK laid in bed with the cool sheets covering her tear-stained face.
"Please, just leave me be. I'm not hungry and I don't want to see anyone." MK sighed as Rose felt the slightest bit of pity for her. She knew Nod too was crushed by the Counsel's decision, and even worse for knowing what they said may be true.
"I wish I could but Countess Rocha is insistent you come down. Prince Aragorn is here." Rose said in an inviting tone as MK groaned.
"We'll pick a dress for you." Marigold said in a cheerful manner.
"Yes, please, please come out and smile. I'm sure everyone will want to see you." Daisy said as MK turn to face away from them as Rose finally had enough.
"That's it!" Rose ripped the sheets and blankets off MK as she sat up shocked.
"What was that for!?"
"You're acting like a spoiled child that had her favorite toy taken away! Do you know how hurt Nod was!? He was crushed, and yet the only thing he could say was that he wants you to be happy! He wants to make sure that the forest is well taken care of! And here you are making his decision all the harder for him! Do you know what he'd do if he saw you in such a state?" Rose fisted her hands as MK gripped her sheet beneath her as she jerked her head up.
"And how do you know all that? Did he tell you? Did you pry it out of him? How would you know how either of us feel!?"
"I know because I love Nod, I have for a long time! I know what it is to suffer and to suppress one's emotions for years! You only just recently fell in love with him and he loves you deeply and yet you continue to torment his emotions. He knew for a long time how he felt about you and he begged for you to make a decision on how you felt but not to lead him on, and now that you two have decided that you love one another, you can't be together. He was willing to give you up for the betterment of the forest and its people and yet you had to be selfish and try to keep him to yourself!" Rose felt her face flush as Daisy and Marigold gasped.
"You . . . love . . . Nod?" MK got up and walked towards Rose.
"I do. He knows and has rejected me. But I will always be his friend. I decided to put his happiness before my own like any mature person would. Let Nod be happy and let him go, let him find a better life for himself than to be trapped here. Ronin's words deeply hurt him. Your actions did the same as did your words of love. Now he has to protect you while watching you in the arms of another man. Don't, don't let him suffer like that for the rest of his days. Please." Rose looked rather remorseful as MK laughed at her own misery.
"Of course, of course you'd say to put his happiness before my own. That's what I've been doing since the ball." MK cursed to herself as she quickly got dressed in a simple white gown and ran over to Nod's room.
"Nod, Nod please let me in." MK knocked as she suddenly heard Countess Rocha clear her throat.
"It's time for dinner highness. You don't want to keep Prince Aragorn waiting." She crossed her arms.
"I'll be down in just a second, please, I really need to speak to Nod."
"Don't worry about your protection, I have temporarily reassigned Ronin as your personal bodyguard while Nod has a few days' rest." Countess Rocha took hold of MK's wrist as she flinched, but decided to follow her.
Thus MK found herself spending nearly every waking moment with Prince Aragorn, and the worst of it was that she was rather enjoying herself. She found herself smiling again at his jokes and his moments of shyness, but every time her heart felt the slightest air of happiness, she felt guilt for Nod not being the one to make her feel that way. She hated that he now practically refused to see her, perhaps not in so many words, but his absence made those sentiments clear. Every night when she would return to her room, she would first knock on his door and beg to talk with him. Weeks passed this way when she finally stopped knocking and simply went into her own room. MK began eating normally again and kept up on her training, learning how to manipulate the plants as she cared deeply for them.
"That's amazing." Prince Aragorn was rather impressed when MK was walking with him in her secret garden as she thanked him.
"Nim Galuu was really helpful with harnessing my powers. Orange?" MK held out an orange as Prince Aragorn happily ate it. Suddenly MK lifted her head at the sound of footsteps as she noticed Nod was walking towards them wearing his armor.
"Nod? What are you doing here?" MK asked rather confused as he cleared his throat.
"I'm sorry to intrude, but I was told that Prince Aragorn wanted to take a tour of the town and I am to escort you both." Nod wouldn't look MK in the eye as she felt her heart swell at the sight of him.
"Wonderful, shall we?" Prince Aragorn held out his arm as MK nodded.
"Right." MK looked back for a brief moment as Nod kept a stoic face as the two made their way to a small pumpkin-like carriage.
"Well isn't this something out of Cinderella?" MK smirked as Prince Aragorn looked at her rather confused.
"The Counsel thought it wise to have you in a confined safe space when going through town." Nod said as he sat up front near the driver.
"Oh, cool." MK smiled as she got in.
"I believe it will take me some time to understand your customs." Prince Aragorn said as MK told him the story of Cinderella. Thus they went parading about town as Prince Aragorn wanted to get off at a few local shops, Nod watching them as he always kept a safe distance. Another week such as this passed as Nod continued to remain distant from MK and simply did his day's work and went to rest in the early evenings, often having small meals alone in the garden. MK was beginning to grow worried as she managed to find time to catch him off guard and talk to him privately.
"Nod, what's wrong with you?" MK asked as he shrugged, munching on a piece of celery as MK crossed her arms and sat down next to him. They were in the kitchen, alone, and it was past midnight.
"I'm fine."
"No you're not. I hardly ever see you smile or cracking jokes."
"I'm a Leafman, I'm supposed to take my job seriously."
"You've been a Leafman for a long time, but that never changed your personality."
"Well, perhaps it needed changing. I used to be really immature, and now that I have my position as the royal bodyguard again, I want to be sure to do my job right."
"Nod, that's very admirable of you, but that still doesn't explain why you're acting so strangely."
"Your highness."
"MK."
"MK, things are different now. You're engaged to Prince Aragorn, and I'm happy for you, I really am. But I have to let go of my previous attachments to you. It's best for both of us if we just forget everything that happened during and after the ball."
"Well you may be fine with that, but I'm certainly not."
"MK, we can't be selfish about this, what would the Counsel say if-"
"Screw the Counsel!" MK fisted her hands as she inched closer to Nod. Her face had turned a dark pink as she gritted her teeth. Nod shrank back slightly as he realized she wasn't going to be convinced by his apathetic responses.
"Why? Why are you being so distant? What happened after the Counsel's decision for me to marry Prince Aragorn?"
"I made a decision to accept him as the future King. Of course I was furious and wanted to argue against the decision, but then everything they said about me being immature and not ready to lead seemed justified. I, I hate seeing you with anyone else, but I can't be selfish." Nod looked down at MK through a pained expression as her heart sank.
"Looks like our viewpoints are reversed." MK crossed her arms as she took in a deep breath.
"Why, why did you talk to Rose about this and not me?" MK couldn't stand to look at him as she turned away.
"Because I didn't want to burden you with my problems and make you think there still was a chance for us."
"Don't you think that's a decision we both should make?" MK looked over her shoulder.
"Maybe, but this is for the best isn't it?" Nod said in a faint voice as MK finally turned around.
"I-I don't know anymore." MK sighed as she looked up. The distant sound of footsteps seemed to be getting closer.
"Oh, I didn't know you two were in here." Prince Aragorn was wearing a navy blue silk robe and slippers. His hair was messy and slightly curled.
"We were just having a midnight snack." MK shrugged as Nod sat there, only looking at his hands.
"Ah, yes, it seems we share this habit. I too was craving a, what do you call it again? The sandwich with nuttiness intermixed with fresh fruit?"
"A PB and J?" MK smirked as Prince Aragorn nodded enthusiastically.
"Well, I'm heading back to bed. Night." Nod stood up abruptly as he bowed and walked rather hurriedly to his room.
"Nod seems different from when I first met him. So much more, focused and yet distracted." Prince Aragorn observed as MK shrugged.
Prince Aragorn made himself a snack and poured a glass of cool milk as MK rested her chin on her hands as he observed her features.
"Is something troubling you?" He licked the corners of his lips as he lifted the glass of milk and took a large gulp.
"No, just . . . tired I guess." MK looked over at him as she smiled.
"Hmm, well it is rather late. But I noticed you've been acting rather strangely since the ball too. Is it the engagement? Are you getting nervous about our marriage? We can wait as long as you like." Prince Aragorn put his sandwich down as he looked worriedly at MK.
"No, it's just . . . complicated I guess." MK shrugged as Prince Aragorn's ears flattened.
"I suppose it is strange to be engaged to a complete stranger, and I'm sure your heart would much prefer to marry for love. And I honestly didn't expect to be the Counsel's first choice, if any choice at all, to be the King of the Forest. I, I'm sorry if this displeases you." Prince Aragorn wiped his face with a napkin as MK jerked up.
"No, no, it's not that, I just have a lot on my mind lately and everything seems to be moving so fast . . . and half the time I don't know what I'm doing." MK felt like she was unraveling as Prince Aragorn reached out and took one of her hands.
"MK, it's alright to be unsure of things. You're human, and even us elves and other forest creatures question our purpose in life along with our choices. Do not feel guilty if your heart is conflicted. You're doing an excellent job as Queen. Much better than anyone expected. Please, just take your time in finding what it is you want." Prince Aragorn wore an honest smile as MK's heart fluttered.
"The problem is my heart knows what it wants, but it's impossible for me to have it." MK felt her eyes welling up with tears as Prince Aragorn brought her into a hug.
"It's Nod isn't it?" His voice was barely over a whisper. MK simply nodded as she felt the hot tears streaming down her face as she did her best not to tremble and cry.
"I know, I know this is hard for you and you're doing what the Counsel wants. I honestly don't view this marriage as anything but a safety assurance for the forest. I know you don't see me as your future husband out of love or emotion, and you have no romantic feelings towards me, but I swear I will be faithful to you. I will never pressure you to do anything you are uncomfortable with or dislike. But please know, I have romantic feelings towards you, but even more importantly, I have a great deal of respect for you. I know we're expected to produce an heir after we marry, but I would never force that upon you."
"Thank you Aragorn. I just need some time. I can't, I can't stop wishing things were different. And I appreciate everything you're telling me, but it's just too soon." MK slightly pushed away as Prince Aragorn released his grip.
"I'm heading to bed." MK wiped her eyes as Prince Aragorn nodded his head and gave her a small smile.
"Sleep well."
"Night."
The following day MK had decided to go out on a walk when she found herself in the middle of the forest away form everyone and everything as she finally let it all out. Every emotion she kept bottled up, and every ounce of anger, frustration, and the suffocation of being trapped in a position she never thought possible.
"Happy birthday to me." MK finally dried her tears as she heard some twigs snapping behind her.
"Who's there?" MK turned as she took a fighting stance.
"No one threatening your highness." A cracked voice seemed to echo around MK as her eyes dilated.
"Zeneba?"
"Yes, I see you found that fork in the road?" Zeneba emerged as she sat on a fallen tree where more lush greenery was beginning to grow slowly.
"Don't even joke about that. Ugh. These last few weeks have been a torture." MK slumped her shoulders down defeated as Zeneba motioned for her to sit down beside her.
"I just hope you'll be able to figure out where to go from here." Zeneba gave MK a small smile as MK groaned.
"I thought I did. Well, before the Counsel said I was to marry someone else."
"Hmm seems like this story has been told before." Zeneba smirked as MK folded her arms, resting on her knees as she brought them into her chest.
"If you're talking Shakespeare, I'd rather not." MK rested her forehead on her forearms.
"Who's that? A human friend of yours?" Zeneba raised a brow as MK raised her head up slightly.
"I'm talking about our previous Queen and the leader of the Leafmen."
"Oh." MK felt rather guilty as she felt ashamed to have forgotten their story.
"Yes, Ronin was so dedicated to his work, but when Queen Terra was fatally wounded, he felt even more distraught for not being able to protect her. He thought he'd be able to do so by suppressing his emotions and only being her bodyguard, but in fact he never could have prevented the inevitable from happening."
"I just don't know what I'm supposed to be doing. I feel either path I take; I have to suppress my emotions or my duty."
"Perhaps, but perhaps there's also a possibility to balance the two."
"How?"
"That's something you need to figure out on your own, but for now you should get back to the palace. I've had visions lately of an unfortunate event, I'm not sure what it'll be or when it will happen. Take great precautions your highness."
"Thanks Zeneba. I hope I can find that balance." MK stood as Zeneba nodded.
MK made her way back to the palace as she tried to clear her thoughts as she was getting notices on turf wars as well as a lack of resources. For now, MK threw herself into work and did her best to keep herself distracted from the nagging of her heart and emotions.