The party was in full swing. It had only begun half of an hour ago, but already people were dancing, chatting, and mingling. Bella guessed there were around a thousand other things that she'd rather be doing. Still though, she fought down the urge to run away... or throw up. Perhaps it was the wine, but something didn't feel right to her, like a wave of fog that refused to lift. Or rather, despair.
Many young nobles had spoken with her, merely interested in her father's money, she supposed. She paid them no mind. She only longed for the moment she would be free once more.
King Charles rose from his seat. Everyone turned their attention toward him, as this meant he had an announcement. "First," his voice boomed throughout the large ballroom, "I have to thank everyone for joining us today."
Bella ignored him as he went on. He could give the longest, most boring speaches... She had to concentrate on not letting her eyes close for too long, which was easier said than done.
"In addition to this, I have another announcement!" He went on.
Bella's uneasiness rose as her father spoke. Something was coming. Something bad. She could sense it, feel it in the very air she breathed.
"Isabella, dear," He spoke directly to her then. Her face reddened considerably. "Come and join us."
'There's no way this can be good.' Bella thought as she stood and made her way to the thrones. As she neared them, a young noble stuck his foot out in her path and she stumbled. She managed to right herself and continued on to the stage, although there was much muffled laughter from behind her.
Standing at her mother's side, she whispered, "What's this all about?"
"You'll find out soon enough dear." Her mother whispered back. She attempted to hide the smile playing on her lips.
'This really isn't going to be good.' She listened to her father drone on about the neighboring kingdoms. "And, I've spoken with king William Black of the kingdom of Quilion. We believe the arrangement we have decided on will be best for everyone."
Something about the way her father had spoken the word 'arrangement' made her head spin. 'What kind of "arrangement"? she wondered suspiciously as she listened to her father's voice.
"As of tonight, my daughter, Princess Isabella, is betrothed to prince Jacob Black of Quilion!" He spoke the words proudly, like he really believed it would be for the best for her to marry.
Immediately, all color rushed from Bella's face. Her head was swimmig now. 'Marriage?' she thought, panicing. 'To him! Can he do that? This isn't the middle ages or anything!'
"Isabella, are you alright?" her mother asked, concerned. "Alicia!" She called.
Alice ran over to them. "Is something wrong, your majesty?" she asked politely.
"Bella doesn't look so good," she whispered. "Please help her to her room."
"Of course. Come on Bell, let's get you..."
Just then, Bella passed out.
"Back," Alice concluded.