I gave you both a little charming family love and the introduction of one character I have been waiting a long time to introduce. Enjoy! I know I enjoyed writing it.
Let me know what you think? I really take your suggestions into consideration. I'm gearing up for a some major action soon. I believe everything will start happening after the ball! R&R, Happy Thanksgiving!
The forest was still, save for a slight breeze that rustled the leaves. Emma moved lightly and quickly, following her prey. When she was satisfied with her position she knocked an arrow and drew the bow, her aim dead on. She felt the breeze, the weight of the arrow in her hand, and knew exactly where it would fly. Exhaling slowly, she released the bow, letting the arrow fly and pierce the rabbit straight through the eye.
She gave a small smile, loving the feeling of being able to hunt again. Granted a rabbit wasn't much but she couldn't exactly bring a buck back to the palace. Walking over to where her game lay, she removed the arrow and cleaned it before placing it back in her quiver. Taking a piece of thin leather she tied the rabbit up by its feet and placed it with her few other kills, hanging from a tree branch, just out of sight from anyone who might think to take it. Not that she minded entirely. She didn't really need the game, she was more than provided for at the castle. It was merely the freedom that hunting gave her that she craved.
"Thought I might find you out here." Emma wasn't surprised by the voice, her tracking senses having heard him approaching from a distance. Her daughter senses, which were quickly improving, had also expected this arrival.
"I am impressed you found me all the way out here." Emma turned to face her father.
"You're not the only one in this family with tracking abilities," James smiled. "Though yours are markedly better than my own."
"Yea well." Emma shrugged. "More practice I guess."
"Hunting?" James looked at Emma's bow.
"Yea. I know I don't need to but…" Emma started.
"You want to." James finished. "To feel a little more like yourself."
"It's a release." Emma agreed.
James examined the game Emma had tied up on the string. "These kill shots are… exquisite."
"I don't think that is an adjective that is oft use in conjunction with death." Emma raised an eyebrow. "Potentially sociopaths..."
"Well for those who consider archery an art form, which your mother does, this is near perfection." James complimented. "You don't see many shots to the eye."
"It creates less damage to the meat and coat, allowing for better products from the game." Emma explained.
"It is also a lot harder to make." James pointed out.
"I suppose." Emma shrugged.
"And you've hit every one dead on." James looked exceptionally proud.
"I hunt a lot in Altair." Emma tried to act like it wasn't a big deal. "They used to tell me I had the best shot. I used to think it was just flattery."
"But…" James pressed.
"People don't really use flattery in Altair." Emma finished. "I mean they do in certain situations but there's not much they could gain from getting me on their side, for the time being. Perhaps they were attempting to get in in early."
"Early?" James asked.
"Everyone assumed I would hold a powerful position in society when I became of age." Emma explained.
"What is the reasoning for that?" James raised an eyebrow.
"Because I am supposedly the most powerful being in Altair... at least in terms of potential. My full powers have not yet manifested so I don't actually hold that title." Emma glanced off into the distance. "Not that I really want it."
"You do not wish to be the most powerful?" James clarified.
"I do not wish for anything." Emma said simply. "Those who covet power let it consume them. Sometimes they can remain separate but many times... Eventually it changes who they are, and not for the better in my opinion. Do not mistake me, those who are in power there are not corrupt individuals, but sometimes I do question their motivation on certain decisions. I just don't want to take the chance that my judgment may be altered by a desire for power."
"That is wise." James gave a small smile.
"It should make you happy." Emma pointed out.
"I beg your pardon?" James asked.
"You hate the idea of my power." Emma reminded him.
"Emma I do not." James protested.
"Yes you do." Emma said gently. "I'm not saying you hate me but you cannot tell me you do not wish I did not posses this power."
"I cannot, in that you are right." James admitted. "But it is not fair of me to hold that against you as it is partly my fault you have this power to begin with. Your power does come from being the product of true love and that love is your mothers' and mine so if anyone is to blame it is us."
"I suppose you have a fair point." Emma nodded. "I guess in that respect I should thank you."
"You like your power?" James asked.
"It's part of who I am." Emma said simply.
"Well." James gave a small smile. "Then I love it."
"Right." Emma rolled her eyes.
"I'm serious Em." James insisted. "I don't care what is a part of you. I love all of you, because you are my daughter and one of the most important things in my life."
Emma paused and gave a small smile at her father. "Thanks."
"We should get back to the castle." James said. "Your mother is beckoning us for dinner."
"Do we have guests?" Emma asked.
"From the kingdom unfortunately." James laughed. "I know you are less than thrilled to have to wear a dress."
"Well it is such an imposition." Emma couldn't hide her grin.
"Your life is so difficult." James teased. "Wearing gowns that have been designed to your preferences and size."
"You have no idea." Emma exaggerated her words. "Hold on I just need to grab my…"
"Emma watch out!" James shouted as his daughter walked too close to the edge that overlooked the river below, an edge he knew was made of loose soil, an edge he had seen fall out from people before, fall out from under his little girl.
"Wha…" Emma turned at her father's warning, but the weight shift was too much for the delicate earth as it collapsed beneath her feet.
James watched in horror as his daughter seemed to fall in slow motion down the ravine. He wasn't sure how but somehow Emma managed to pull he dagger from her boot and sink it into the packed dirt of the ravine wall. He wasn't sure how but without thinking he was on his knees, grabbing his daughter's free hand. "I have you Emma. I have you."
"Are you trying to convince yourself of this fact or me?" Emma asked breathlessly.
"Not entirely sure." James admitted. He made sure his grip on Emma's left arm was tight before looking into her eyes with assurance. "Emma can you give me your other hand?"
"Let go of this?" Emma looked at the dagger and back up at her father with unsure eyes.
"You need to trust me Emma." James said strongly. "I can get you up, I have before."
Suddenly the version of her father holding on to her disappeared and was replaced by a blurry memory of a terrifying night. She was running through the forest, her long blonde hair flying out behind her as her father chased her. She looked behind her at James. "You can't catch me!"
"Don't be so sure of yourself princess." James teased.
"You'll have to try harder." Emma laughed. She kept looking at her father and as a result didn't see the tree branch in front of her. It caught her foot and sent her flying forward. She heard her father shouting her name as she tumbled forward, off the edge of a ravine and plummeting to the rain-swollen river below.
A scream ripped from her throat as she broke through the surface of the river, the force of the current pulling her under. She lost all sense of direction as the river threw her around, water pounding into her ears, forcing its way into her lungs. She couldn't see anything but she still felt her eyes grow heavy as her mind grew fuzzy. She could no longer feel the cold of the water or the pain of the rocks she was thrown up against, only the fear that she would never get out of the water.
She was barely aware when she felt strong arms wrap around her and pull her from the water. She didn't know how she got there but she was vaguely aware of solid ground beneath her and she thought she could hear her father's voice, begging her breathe. There was rapid pressure on her lungs and she could fear the water coming up her throat and before she knew it she was on her side, coughing out the water that had filled her lungs. Her father was rubbing her back, encouraging her to get the water out of her lungs.
"That's it baby." James was having trouble keeping the fear and relief out of his voice. "Breathe baby, breathe."
When the water was finally all out she took deep breaths, trying to refill her lungs with air. She looked up to her water, tears in her eyes. "Daddy."
"Oh my God Emma." James could no longer hide his relief as he pulled his little girl into his arms, holding her tightly. "You're ok, you're ok."
"It was so scary." Emma sobbed.
"I know baby." James ran his fingers through Emma's wet hair. "I know."
"I didn't think I was ever going to get out of that water." Emma's words were broken up by her quick, shaky breaths.
"I have you now." James pressed a kiss onto her head, pulling her tighter into him. "Daddy has you. I'm not going to let anything happen to you. I'm never going to let anything happen to you."
There was something about her father's voice and embrace that calmed her no matter what. She had just endured an experience that would have haunted individuals far older than herself and terror filled her body, but being in her father's arms, hearing his words, she felt safer than she ever had.
"Emma." James called, shaking his daughter from her memory.
"Sorry." Emma realized his grip was slipping. "I was a lot smaller then."
"Yes you were." James agreed. "But you were in the water and I still managed to save you. I had you then, and I have you know. You just need to trust me."
Emma didn't look convinced but her emotions were too strong for her to safely use her magic and she knew it. Her strength was fading and there was no way she could pull herself up. She had no choice but to trust her father. "Ok."
"Ok." James gave her an encouraging smile. "I'm going to count to three and you're going to let go and grab onto my hand. I'm going to pull you up. You're not going anywhere."
Emma nodded quickly. "Ok."
"Ready?" James asked, earning another nod from his daughter. "One, two, three." Emma let go of her dagger and gave a quick gasp, grabbing for James's arm desperately. But James was there, tightly grabbing hold of his daughter and pulling her up. When Emma was back on the ground he pulled her to him, wrapping his arms around her as she stared vacantly at the river below. He felt her shaking slightly and tightened his grip. "It's ok baby. I've got you, I've always got you."
"What the hell…" Emma said breathlessly.
"You're ok." James smoothed, stroking her arm methodically.
"I know." Emma nodded, pulling away. She slowly inched over to the edge and carefully pulled the dagger out. She wiped if off before placing it back in her boot and pushing herself off the ground, making sure to put a good distance between herself and the edge.
"Emma you're still shaking." James held his hand out.
"I'm fine." Emma waved him off, trying not to hyperventilate at her near death experience. It wasn't so much that she had almost fallen into the river, she could deal with that. She had faced death before, it didn't shake her up that much. What was getting to her was the fear of the memory, of the three year old girl trapped under the rushing water with no way out.
"Breathe Emma." James said soothingly. Emma turned and stared at James, shock in her eyes. James looked worried. "What is it?"
"No it's nothing." Emma shook her head, her voice different. "It's just… your voice." Emma drifted to a far off place, the familiar voice floating back into her head. 'Breathe Emma. There's no reason to fear. Fear gives others power over you. Be strong Emma. Don't be afraid' "It's so familiar." Emma shook her head, trying to get the voice out but it kept growing louder, refusing to go away. 'Fear is not real. It is a product of thoughts you create, fear is a choice.' Emma looked at James, her mouth open. "It's been you? All along?"
"What?" James asked, clearly confused.
"I've always heard this voice in my head." Emma shook her head, trying to explain. "Whenever I'm scared or nervous or think I can't do things I hear this voice telling me 'Fear is not real, that it's a product of the thoughts I create, a choice I make'. I never knew who it was but it always calmed me, it made me feel like I could do anything." Emma turned to James, breathless. "It's your voice."
James smiled, tears in his eyes. "I used to say that to you. Whenever you were scared I would tell you that. It always calmed you down. It even got to the point where you would repeat it back to me."
Emma began to tear up and she walked away. "Emma what is it?" James asked gently.
Emma turned around, hand on her mouth. "I just can't handle this."
"What about it?" James stepped hesitantly towards his daughter.
"I've…" Emma's breath shuttered. "I've lived my whole life thinking that I was abandoned by my family, that they didn't love me, that they hated me for what I was, for my magic. And I know it was because I couldn't remember but that still doesn't take away the pain of living ten years believing you were abandoned but… your voice, your words, they've been with me all along. They were the only thing I could always rely on to calm me down… you were the only thing that could always call me down. Everything I knew was… is… just been turned upside down."
"Emma I am so sorry you spent all those years thinking we abandoned you." James said honestly. "Nothing could be farther from the truth."
"We lost all that time." Emma shook her head. "We can never get it back."
"No we can't." Jams agreed. "But regardless of what happened, we have each other."
"But I still can't make the decision to stay." Emma shook her head. "I still can't shake that feeling I had for so long, even though I know it is not true. I can't just forget about Altair and everything it has done for me."
"I know." James said quietly, as if he was afraid to admit it.
"I don't know what to do." Emma looked up into James's eyes, a lost look in her own. "I don't know how I am ever supposed to choose between two different homes.
"I…I can't make that decision for you." James said quietly. "But I can tell you I do wish you would choose here. But I also understand that you have another home, a home that I am so grateful took such good care of you for these past years. I would miss you more than I could say but… knowing you're alive, knowing you're ok, knowing that you have turned into this incredible and beautiful young woman… it is more than I ever thought I would get, and I am so grateful for that."
Emma nodded slowly, trying to figure out what to say. Finally she looked guardedly at her father. "So what you used to say to me… Did you ever say it to Will?"
"No." James shook his head "I couldn't bring myself to say it after you were gone… it hurt to bad. All I could hear was your voice saying it back to me, your tear stained face trying to calm down, the determination as you did whatever you were afraid of. You never let anything stop you… not even fear. I couldn't remind myself of you anymore than I already did."
"Was if often?" Emma asked hesitantly.
"Every day." James whispered. "I never stopped thinking about you. All I wanted was to have you in my arms again, but I never could."
"I'm sorry." Emma said quietly.
"It's…" James took a deep breath. "It's a complicated situation. A lot of people made mistakes but all that matters is that you are here now. We can't focus on the past, there is no way to change it. It hurts that we missed all that time, but I don't want to think about that anymore. All I want is to concentrate on is the fact that I have you now. That is all I care about."
Emma looked into her father's eyes, tears beginning to pool in her own. For the first time she could remember she felt really, truly loved. She believed that he would do anything to save her… not because she was powerful or important, but because he loved her more than anything. "Thank you… so, so much."
"For what?" James lovingly tucked a lock of Emma's hair behind her ear.
"For saving me." Emma shook her head slowly. "For accepting me, for loving me for who I am not what I am. Thank you. No one has ever loved me like that before."
James's voice caught in his throat. He swallowed before reaching out his hand gently caressing his daughter's face, trying to hide his own tears. "That is where you are wrong my sweet little girl. I have always loved you, more than you could ever know."
"I wish I had known that, instead of spending ten years thinking you were indifferent and hating you." Emma trailed off and shook her head. "I'm sorry."
"No." James put his hands on Emma's shoulders. '"You don't have to apologize for anything. Like I said, we can't change the past, no matter how hard we try."
"So what do we do know?" When Emma looked at her father, he saw the questioning eyes of his little girl, trusting, believing that he had all the answers.
"We focus on being a family and the time we have with each other now." James assured her.
"Ok." Emma nodded, choosing to believe in him.
"But I think we should start by getting back to that castle before your mother sends out a search party."
"I'm surprised she didn't when she noticed I was missing." Emma mused.
"That was me." James grinned.
"I figured." Emma gave a small laugh.
"Can we agree to not tell her about all of this?" Emma asked hopefully.
"About you almost falling into the river that nearly killed you the first time?" James raised an eyebrow. "Yes. I think that is wise."
"Good." Emma smiled.
James pulled Emma into a hug and kissed the top of her head. "I love you kid."
"Em I'm going to grab a Danish from the bakery on the corner." Alex called
"Ok I'll be right there." Emma called back over her shoulder. She turned back to the vendor. "Are we all good?"
"I love when you bring me game." The vendor smiled at Emma's birds. "You have the best shot I've ever seen."
"Thank you." Emma smiled.
"I just wish you would let me pay you more." The vendor sighed.
"It's really not necessary." Emma shrugged.
"You just give away what I pay you anyways." The vendor shook his head.
"How did you…" Emma looked surprised.
"I've seen you with the children." The vendor smiled. "You are very generous with what you have. I see you've learned to give them bread and a few coins instead of all of the money."
"It's sad that everyone just assumes they steal the money." Emma sighed.
"There are not many people who are as generous as you." The vendor pointed out. "While most people in this kingdom are well off, not everyone lives in a palace like those royals."
Emma shifted uncomfortably. "Well they make sure their subjects are cared for don't they?"
"Of course." The vendor nodded. "They make sure no one goes hungry. They provide the orphanage with supplies and food, but there are many who chose to live outside the system. However kind they are, there will always be people who resent them for what they have, even if they are beloved."
"Do you?" Emma asked.
"I don't find it particularly fair that they get to live in a castle with fancy dresses and jewels while I live in a cottage with a couple of trousers and shirts." The vendor shrugged.
"Personally I prefer trousers and tunics to dresses." Emma grinned.
"That is one of the reasons I like you girl." The vendor grinned. "But they are humble and kind. I imagine it would be hard to not become entitled in a lifestyle like that. But the king and queen have managed to do so. I cannot say as much for the prince unfortunately."
"Yea I have heard things." Emma nodded uncomfortably. "But I've also heard he has gotten better in recent weeks."
"Well lets see if the change lasts." The vendor mused.
"And the princess?" Emma pressed.
"No one has seen much of her." The vendor explained. "As a child she was loved and adored by everyone, an absolute sweetheart. It was impossible to dislike her. I imagine she would have grown up beloved by all. She was extraordinarily humble and kind too. I haven't heard much about her since her return. Her parents keep her close, understandably so. If one of mine disappeared for ten years I don't know if I'd let them leave my sight. It's a terrible thing for a parent to go through."
"Yea." Emma said softly.
"From what I have heard from the castle, she seems kind enough. But she's changed. She's more distant, which I can understand. She's very well mannered and spends most of her time with her friend she brought with her. I heard there was an awkward encounter with her former best friend though."
"There are just a lot of rumors about her aren't there." Emma closed her eyes, praying for patience.
"She was the mystery of the kingdom." The vendor shrugged. "She's the most interesting thing we have to talk about. Plus I have heard she is absolutely stunning. But then again they probably just say that because she's the princess."
"What do you mean?" Emma asked.
"Individuals like to indulge the royals." The vendor explained. "I mean the king and queen are both very beautiful individuals and I could imagine they would make a beautiful daughter. She was very pretty when she was younger. But I don't know if I believe everything I hear from the castle. Take you for instance. Not to speak out of place but you are a stunning young girl with an incredible heart for others. I would be surprised if the princess had anything on you. I'd like to see her out here doing the charity you do for others"
"Thanks?" Emma laughed uncomfortably. "Well I should get going."
"Make sure the children get fed." The vendor's eyes twinkled.
Emma made her way to the bakery and bought her usual order of bread and cheese. The baker smiled to see her. By this point he was familiar with her and what she did for the children. He often snuck in extra for them and offered her a basket to carry it. Once she had filled her basket she made her way to where she usually met the children. They were smiling, waiting for her to come with her bread. Emma loved them. They seemed so sweet. Some were orphans, others were just beggar children. She couldn't understand why their parents refused help from her parents, but she understood pride could often get in the way of helping those you love. She played a few games with the children before realizing she had left Alex alone for too long.
She quickly bid ado to the children and hurried to return the basket to the baker. She was so focused on getting the basket back she didn't notice where she was going and ran straight into someone."
"Oh." Emma gasped and bent down to pick up the spilled contents of her bag.
"I'm so sorry." The voice came from above her. Whoever she had run into bent down to help her pick up her belongings. Emma tucked her hair behind her ear and glanced up into the face of one of the most gorgeous boys she had ever seen. Emma stared in surprise at the brilliant blue eyes and perfectly placed blonde hair. The boy seemed to notice her staring. "Is that it?"
"Oh." Emma glanced at the ground. "Yes. I'm so sorry, I wasn't looking where I was going."
"Where are you off to in such a hurry?" The boy laughed.
"I have to return this basket to the baker." Emma held it up. "It's not mine. I just borrow it."
"To feed the children?" The boy raised his eyebrow.
"You saw that?" Emma blushed.
"You weren't exactly hiding it." The boy smiled. "I think it is very sweet, to give away your belongings and money to help others."
"They need it more than I do." Emma shrugged.
"You don't look like you live in squalor." The boy glanced at Emma's clothing. "Those look well made. And that bow is quite fine."
"Oh this." Emma glanced back at her bow and quiver. "I figure if you're going to have one, it better be good quality."
"You shoot?" The boy asked.
"Yea." Emma said slowly. "It's not exactly the most feminine thing, but it's how I get the game to sell to the vendor so I can afford the bread for the children."
"You sell your game to feed others?" The boys eyebrows shot up.
"Sometimes I give it to them." Emma explained. "But yes."
"Wow." The boy seemed impressed. Emma quickly sized him up. Judging by his size he seemed to be a few years older than herself and extraordinarily well built. His muscles were well defined, but not too large, much like her father's build. His smile reached his eyes and only increased his attractiveness. His clothes were well made, but there was something about the quality of them that told Emma, no matter how deceptively simple, he was high born. "I can't say I've seen that kind of kindness in Eirian very often."
"In Eirian?" Emma asked. "I wasn't aware our people were so brutish and cold."
"You're not." The boy said quickly. "I guess I should say I don't usually see that kind or selflessness anywhere."
"You're not from here?" Emma clarified.
"You don't know who I am?" The boy seemed surprised.
"I can't say that I do." Emma shook her head.
"Wow." The boy looked contemplative for a minute. "Well that's actually really refreshing."
"Are you famous?" Emma teased.
"You could say that." The boy shook his head. "I'm from Ranaar and there, well almost everyone recognizes me."
"You must be a great hero." Emma's voice had a teasing lilt.
"I can't say I've done much to earn it." The boy admitted. "I'm their prince."
"Oh." It was Emma's turn to be taken aback. This was the boy she was supposed to be meeting later today. "Prince Cristoph? What are you doing here?"
"Chris, please. My family is visiting your king and queen for the first time since their daughter returned. They wanted to come immediately but Snow and James asked for time for their daughter to adjust."
"Understandable." Emma nodded. She knew she should introduce herself. "It would be hard to be thrust back into a world where everyone recognizes you but you recognize no one."
"I suppose it would be. We got here early, but we aren't supposed to arrive until tonight so I took the chance to escape into the village. I have to say I'm not exactly looking forward to the visit." Chris said.
"Why?" Emma had been about to reveal who she was but something stopped her.
"It's complicated." Chris shrugged.
"I'm sure I can follow." Emma smiled. "I have been told I am quite clever."
"Oh really?" Chris flashed his charming smile. "Well Emma and I were quite close when we were younger. Our parents always hope that one day we might… well we were betrothed. I suppose we sill are."
"What?" Emma nearly choked in surprise.
"Betrothed?" Chris seemed unnerved by Emma's shock. "It means…"
"No I know what means." Emma said quickly. "I'm just…. I guess I'm just surprised that the king and queen would force their daughter into a marriage. They seem like the type that would want her to find true love. I mean they found true love."
"It wasn't an arranged marriage in the typical sense." Chris explained. "They hoped we would fall in love and join our kingdoms. They also did it to discourage other suitors who wanted her hand for less than noble reasons. But I honestly believe that they would have allowed her to make her own decision, as would have mine."
"Well won't they still?" Emma asked. "Both her parents and yours."
"I suppose." Chris nodded. "But they'll want to reacquaint us, force us to spend time together. All the time hoping we'll fall in love and form the perfect union."
"What if you do fall in love with her?" Emma couldn't believe what she was saying.
"I've never really been one to want to marry another royal." Chris explained. "I don't know why… I just feel like it is so easy to feel entitled and arrogant when you grow up with the world at your feet. I don't want someone who comes from my world. Or maybe I do… I don't know. It's just almost everyone I've met of nobility… well a lot are entitled and believe the world owes them something. Others are kind and generous but they still understand little of a world outside of riches and balls and people bowing to their every command. I want someone who understands the world, who seeks adventure, who realizes that there is more to life than being royal. All know is I want someone who I fall unconditionally in love with someone because of who they are, not their pedigree and family history, not because it is expected of me."
"That makes sense." Emma nodded, not sure if she should feel insulted. "But from what I heard she does come from another world. She does understand a life outside of nobility. I mean she has been living elsewhere for what, ten years now?"
"Which could mean any number of things for her psyche." Chris shook his head.
"You know for someone who doesn't like being judged on where he comes from you're being awfully hypocritical." Emma pointed out. Chris looked shocked. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have spoken out of place."
"No." Chris said quickly. "I…. I try to be kind and distance myself from the whole royal thing. But sometimes I forget that people may not say things about the way I act not because it is correct, but because of my status. People don't usually correct me… you're right. I'm being very hypocritical. I don't even know the girl, I shouldn't judge her."
"And who says she'll even like you." Emma teased.
"I'm very likeable." Chris joked.
"Because you've been doing such a good job with me?" Emma grinned.
"You don't find me charming?" Chris asked teasingly.
"That's one word for it." Emma laughed.
"Hey is that?" Chris looked over Emma's shoulder. "Alex?"
"Chris!" Alexandra walked up to them smiling. She gave Chris a friendly hug.
"What are you doing here?" Chris asked.
"Oh I'm with…" Alexandra looked at Emma who was shaking her head slightly. "I'm just out in the village. You know they have the best danishes here."
"That they do." Chris nodded, he turned to Emma. "You should come with me to get one. My treat since you seem to have spent all your money on those children."
"Oh no, that's not necessary." Emma shook her head.
"It's no trouble at all." Chris said. "I would love to spend more time with you. There's something about you… I have the feeling you won't treat me like a royal but as a normal person. Please do me the honor."
"I really can't." Emma protested
"I'm a prince, you can't say no to me." Chris teased.
"Oh I think I can." Emma said. "You may be a prince, but you are not my prince."
"See I need you around to keep me in check." Chris said. "Please, it would mean so much to me."
"I wish I could. But I have to get back. I'm late as it is." Emma apologized. "Another time?"
"I'll hold you to it." Chris's smile nearly melted Emma's heart. "How will I know when I'll see you again?"
"I have a feeling it will be when you least expect it." Emma's eyes twinkled. "I have a way of surprising people."
"That you do." Chris couldn't take his eyes off Emma.
"I have to go too." Alex looked at Emma. "What direction are you walking in?"
"North." Emma said.
"As am I." Alex faked surprise. "Do you mind if I join you?"
"Not at all." Emma smiled.
"I'll see you tonight Chris." Alex called as she and Emma turned to leave.
"Wait." Chris called. "I didn't catch your name."
Emma looked over her shoulder and grinned devilishly. "That's because I didn't give it to you. Have a good afternoon prince Christoph."
As soon as they were far enough away Alex descended into a fit of giggles. "You are awful."
"I didn't mean to." Emma laughed. "I didn't even know who he was at first and you know I don't like telling the villagers who I am. Then it turned out he wasn't a villager and he was the son of my parents' best friends. I was about to tell him who I was and then he started insulting me."
"He insulted you?" Alex's eyes shot up.
"Well not me." Emma backtracked. "Princess Emma. He started saying all these things about being expected to marry her, or how he used to be expected to marry her, I don't even know how he still remembers that. He said he didn't want to be pressured into marrying someone from this world. A princess obsessed with looks and clothing and an entitled attitude about life."
"He said that?" Alex gasped.
"Yup." Emma nodded. "He also mentioned something about my psyche being not stable because of the ten years I lived away from this world."
"That is so unlike him." Alex shook her head. "I mean he's …. well… perfect."
"Apparently he has some secret angst." Emma shrugged. "He seemed super apologetic once I called him out on it though."
"It's going to be very uncomfortable when you two meet later tonight." Alex pointed out.
"Yea…" Emma nodded. "I hadn't thought this all the way through."
"I am going to really enjoy watching this." Alex grinned.
"And I'm the evil one?" Emma laughed.
"It's why we work so well together." Alex nudged Emma and smiled.
"Emma hurry up." Snow appeared in the doorway of Emma's chambers. "They will be here any minute and you are no where near ready."
"I'm sorry." Emma hurried out of the bathroom attempting to tie the lacing on her underdressing. "I spent longer with the sword than I meant to. I'm going as fast as I can."
"Here let me help you with that." Snow smiled as took the laces from her daughter's hands and deftly finished tying them. "There. Now will you get your dress on and let Eliza finish your hair?"
"I don't need…" Emma protested.
"I'll take care of it ma'am." Eliza stepped out of the wardrobe, a light dress in her arms. "Go welcome your guests. Emma will be down soon."
"Thank you Eliza." Snow said gratefully. She turned to her daughter and cupped her chin. "Hurry my dear."
"I will." Emma promised. She looked at Eliza nervously. "How frilly of a dress did you pick?"
"Emma my dear I know you better than you think." Eliza smiled and held up the dress. It had a white bodice with intricate lace like detailing and sleeves that just covered her shoulders, leaving the rest of her arms bare. The light gray skirt flowed out from under the top piece.
"It's perfect." Emma smiled with relief. "Nice enough for my parents and simple enough so I do not feel ridiculous."
"I thought you would like it." Eliza helped Emma into the dress and laced it up for her. She gently ran her finger through Emma's long blonde hair making sure it lay right before placing in a delicate silver diamond and pearl headband that doubled as Emma's tiara for more casual occasions. "There. You look beautiful."
Emma took a deep breath. "Well… I better get down there before they come looking for me."
"Are you not excited to meet the King and Queen of Ranaar and become reacquainted with their children?" Eliza asked. "You used to be so close."
"I know you know me better than that." Emma stood up and looked at Eliza.
"Apprehensive is the word I would choose. Meeting people that know, knew, me. That I was supposed to spend my whole life knowing. It's always weird."
"It has worked out for you before." Eliza pointed out. "Look at you and Alexandra. The two of you are thick as thieves."
"But not without it being extraordinarily awkward initially." Emma shrugged as she tucked a stray piece of hair behind her ear. "I can't expect it to work that way for everyone."
"Have faith dear princess." Eliza tidied up the vanity. "The world is not as bad as you suppose it to be."
"You don't know what I've seen." Emma mumbled as she slipped her shoes on.
"What was that?" Eliza looked up.
"I was just saying we should get down there." Emma covered. "Are you coming?"
"Of course." Eliza smiled and gently placed a hand on Emma's back and guided her down to the grand foyer.
"This is going to be so awkward." Emma muttered uncomfortably.
"Why?" Eliza asked.
"Well I may or may not have made a stupid decision earlier." Emma admitted.
"What do you mean?" Eliza asked warily.
"Well when I was out in Dewar I…" Emma started to explain but she was cut off by her name being called.
"Emma there you are." James smiled warmly at his daughter, beckoning her over. "I'd like to reintroduce you to our dear friends from the west."
Emma shrugged apologetically to Eliza before walking to her parents. James put his hand on her back as he guided her in between himself and Snow. "Emma this is Queen Abigail and King Frederick from the kingdom of Ranaar."
"It is a pleasure to meet you." Emma gave a small curtsey.
"The pleasure is ours." Frederick smiled warmly at Emma. "It has been far too long."
"That is what I hear." There was a hint of discomfort in Emma's voice but she was getting more and more used to this reaction when she was introduced to people who had known her former self.
"Your beauty has grown with you dear Emma." Abigail smiled. "You inherited the best of both of your parents."
"Thank you." Emma blushed.
Frederick beckoned the petite girl standing behind them forward. She looked to be slightly younger than Emma and had long wavy soft brown hair. Her blue eyes twinkled from the wide smile on her face, a smile she shared with her brother. She was just as stunning as her mother. "Hi Emma. I'm Charlotte. I know you don't remember me but… I'm so excited you're back."
"You and Charlotte got on quite well as children." James explained.
"I'm sure we will now." Charlotte grinned at James giving a small curtsey. "It's a pleasure to see you again sire."
"It always is." James smiled at the girl. He looked up at Frederick. "Where is your boy?"
"He's around here somewhere." Frederick looked around. "Ah there he is, Chris hurry, you're late."
"I know. I'm so sorry father." Chris apologized as he rushed into the main hall.
"It's ok son." Frederick smiled at his son. "Chris I'd like you to meet James and Snow's daughter, Emma."
"It's a pleas…" Chris bowed but froze when he looked up, seeing Emma for the first time. Emma shifted uncomfortably, knowing she would have to explain herself. Chris slowly straightened up.
"Her beauty is captivating isn't it?" Frederick misinterpreted his son's shock.
"Yes…" Chris couldn't take his eyes off Emma.
Emma gave an imperceptible shake of her head, pleading him not to say anything. "Perhaps we should take a walk in the gardens to get reacquainted while our parents catch up?"
"Yes." Chris nodded slowly. "I think that would be an excellent idea."
"I'll come along." Charlotte's smile widened.
Emma got the feeling Charlotte had boundless energy and happiness in her. She exchanged a look with Chris knowing both of them wanted to have this conversation alone. Chris looked at his sister. "Of course Char. I'm sure Emma would love to get to know her old friend."
"You know me well enough to make that assumption?" There was a teasing lilt to Emma's voice.
"Clearly there are many things I do not know about you." Chris said pointedly, warning Emma not to push it too far if she did not want her secret revealed.
"Well then." Emma stepped forward. "How about we remedy that?"
"I think that would be wise." Chris agreed. "Coming Char?"
"Of course." Charlotte beamed.
"Have fun." Snow smiled warmly as the three left
"They seem to be getting on already." Abigail watched Chris and Emma.
"Did you see the way he looked at her?" Frederick looked at James. "I know she's your little girl James but she is quite a beauty and I think Chris has already taken notice."
"As much as I don't like the idea of boys around her…" James shook his head regretfully. "I can't imagine a better one then Chris taking a shine to her."
"We should tell Alexandra her friends are in the garden." Snow beckoned a guard over.
"Are Ella and Thomas still here?" Abigail asked.
"No they had to return to Erril to keep things in order but they left Alexandra here to spend more time with Emma." Snow explained. "They are planning on returning for the ball though."
"Does Emma know about this ball yet?" Frederick looked at James.
"We haven't quite broken the news to her yet." James admitted. "We're trying to ease her back into these relationships and this world without overwhelming her. I think once she has adjusted to the two of you and finds comfort in Charlotte, Alex and Chris she will be more at ease meeting all of our friends."
"The whole realm is waiting to see her." Abigail turned to her friends.
"She certainly is someone worth waiting for." Snow smiled fondly.