For Country and Peace (Watase Yu x Eternalsinger13

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[[ OOC: I think another time skip is in order soon. Since such extreme precautions are being taken and he isn't in a place for visitors to meet her family ... I'm thinking it's wedding day time. What do you think? ]]

At Arikizo's reaction to her first question, she would smile and chuckle. She quickly noted that he blushed even more because of what she had said, but she wasn't about to tease him about it under the circumstances. He seemed happy to know that she wasn't going anywhere. She wasn't about to take any chances whatsoever between now and Friday. This wedding was happening, with Arikizo as her groom. No one was going to stop it. At his comment she would arch an eyebrow as she smile playfully. "That sounds like a challenge ..." She teased as he kissed the back of her hand. "I just don't want to take any chances. I am going to be your wife. I won't let anyone or anything stop that." She would whisper gently.

Martha would nod her head gently to the dragon prince. She was happy to be of help and keeping an eye on the couple not only made her feel better, but it also made Evelynne feel safer. No one would try anything with one of them awake at all times and she planned to stay up all night, just to keep an eye on things. She would rest in the morning when Evelynne was rested enough to keep an on things. At Arikizo's playful scowl, Evelynne would giggle. "Would you have preferred I lied to you about? Told you it would be sweet and joyful, leaving you unprepared, and ultimately making it taste worse?" Evelynne would ask.

As he proceeded to let her know how bad it had tasted, Evelynne would shake her head gently. "A necessary evil so that you can get better, Ari." She mused gently before arching an eyebrow. "I am not sure if I want to know what you have had that is worse than that though." She would say with a shake of her head. She was in the process of slipping back into her chair when he began talking about her laying next to him on the bed. "I honestly don't mind, I had Martha bring a pillow for that reason ..." She mused, still sitting on the edge of his bed.

Though he had a point, besides he couldn't move without assistance. Anyone would be crazy to think anything was going on. "True. Besides, we have Martha as a witness in case anyone does try. I'll make sure to wake up and move to the chair early enough in the morning before anyone comes in ..." She would say as she laid down next to him. Careful to keep space between them, she would rest one hand in his as she leaned in for a moment to kiss his shoulder. Moving back to her spot, she met her gaze. "I'm glad you're okay, Ari. Get some rest, you need it. I'll be right here, okay?" She whispered before looking to Martha. Martha would smile and nod, signifying she was going to keep watch and that she would wake Evelynne early enough in the morning to move into the chair for appearance sake. Smiling, Evelynne would mouth thank you before letting herself relax.
 
((OOC: Sounds like a plan ^.^))

Arikizo laughed softly as Evelynne considered his comment a challenge. He honestly believed that her companionship was one of the greatest comforts, and she wouldn't be able to get on his nerves unless she was purposely truly to annoy him. Even then, he would know that she was just playing around. At her words, he would smile, trying not to blush. She was so devoted to him, that she was willing to take every precaution possible to make sure they were able to go through with the wedding. He had to admit that her determination to become his wife made his pulse jump a little. The prince had never thought that he would find himself in a happy marriage; especially not this happy. He'd always thought that he would be married off as a political pawn... well, actually, he had been. It just happened to turn out like this.

At the princess's laughter and teasing comment, Arikizo couldn't help but chuckle as well. He shook his head, grinning. "Of course not." He nodded as she spoke of the medicine being necessary for his health. He wouldn't have avoided it even if it would have hurt him to take it. Better to have a temporary pain and recover from the greater illness than bypass both. He laughed at her second comment. "Perhaps you don't." He mused playfully.

Evelynne agreed to lay beside him, and Ari was glad. It must be highly uncomfortable to sleep while sitting in a chair, he thought, and he would have felt extremely guilty if she'd been forced to sleep in that position for propriety's sake. He nodded at her precaution, wanting to move from the bed before anyone could come in to check on them and misread the situation. A smile remained on his lips, a soft sigh slipping free as she kissed his shoulder. "You're so sweet." He murmured. "I'm glad I'm okay too. I would have been eternally guilty if I'd been permanently injured, and caused you grief." He leaned toward her, kissing her cheek with a gentle smile. The prince nodded as she told him to rest, pulling back again and holding gently onto her hand. "Good night, my sweet Eve."

. . . .
​

The next few days went by without trouble, and Arikizo regained his strength bit by bit. By the time Thursday morning came around, he was able to get out of bed, but Evelynne and his parents kept him in his room for the day to rest before the wedding. Finally, the sun rose on Friday morning, and Evelynne was separated from the prince while they each got ready for the occasion they had been looking forward to for the entire week. Ari was a bit nervous as the servants swarmed around him, helping him with his suit before pulling his long hair into a ponytail that hung over his shoulder in the front. They were exceptionally careful, the whole castle having heard of the prince's poisoning, often asking him if he felt alright and if he was lightheaded. He thanked them for their concern, but shook off their worries. "I'm fine now." He assured them. "I am completely healed."
 
Evelynne blushed gently as she realized how eager she sounded to marry him. It was all true, but still a bit embarrassing. Arikizo didn't seem to mind in the slightest, seeing that he seemed just as excited about the idea. She hadn't thought her political pawn of a marriage would end up being a truly happy, genuine one, yet it was. She was just glad to see Arikizo's sense of humor shining through, it was a good sign that he was on the mend. As he kissed her cheek and held her hand, Evelynne would smile. A couple more days and these proper precautions wouldn't need to even be taken. "Good night, Ari." She murmured.


. . . .​


And so it went over the course of the next couple days. Martha would wake Evelynne early enough each morning so that she could move to the chair. Martha would generally drift to sleep at that point, so Evelynne would take her shift, watching over Arikizo. By Thursday morning, even though Ari had most of his strength back, his parents and her agreed that he should simply rest for the wedding the next morning. By early Friday morning, Evelynne was ushered away before the prince awoke. Superstition and all that of course. She refused to leave until one of the trusted servants were at his side, then she left with Martha to get ready.

At that point, the wedding was only a few hours away, the king and queen having wanted it first thing in the morning for the ball that was to be held afterward. She was bathed and dried. Once she was in her dress, servants took to the task of tying the back tightly, making Evelynne occasionally gasp in pain. She had worn the elegant gown several times now, so she had at least gotten use to it. It was a mostly sleek number until it reached about mid-thigh where it poofed out in several tiers of fabric. Subtle embroidery decorated the bodice while small crystals made the bottom portion sparkle.

Once that was done, a pair of servants fussed over putting on jewelry why another got to work on her hair. She insisted on keeping most of it down, what Rovan having said several days prior still making her skin crawl. Once they had curled all of her hair, half was pulled back, leaving her face open, and framed by a few stray short locks. As Martha was placing the last finishing touches on her look, a knock would grab her attention. Looking at the doors, Evelynne would beam. There was her father, waiting to escort her down. "My little girl isn't so little anymore." He looked to be in his mid forties. "It is almost time, my little Eve. Your mother, brother, and Ryn are waiting to greet you downstairs so they can quickly take their seats. Shall we?" He asked as he held out his arm. "Of course ... It is time for me to get married, papa." Evelynne would say with a smile as she slipped her arm into her father's. Once she had fixed Evelynne's train, Martha would trail behind them, adjusting or lifting the train when needed.
 
Not long after the servants had finished with the final touches and retouches of his hair and outfit, the king and queen arrived to the prince's chamber. His mother grinned. "See, I told you the emerald pin would suit him well." She gushed, looking up at the king, who was also beaming happily. "You look as handsome as I did on my wedding day." He murmured as the monarchs walked toward the son. Arikizo gave them a small smile. "Well, I'm glad I look handsome. But I can't properly move." His parents laughed. "But isn't that part of the deal? Weddings aren't supposed to be comfortable, they are supposed to be memorable." The king teased. 'Memorable indeed.' The prince thought in his typical playfully sarcastic manner. 'I wonder if the imprint of this necktie will ever fade.' "Come on, now. We have to get you out into the before your bride gets down there. It would be a shame if you two crossed paths before she came down the aisle. That's half the occasion."

Arikizo followed the king and queen down the hallway and through the castle, out into the garden where the wedding was taking place. The weather was holding up well, the sun shining brightly with minimal clouds in the sky. A breeze was present, but not exceptionally troublesome. Arikizo bid his parents off to their seats when they neared the ceremony, and he took his spot at the front, standing before the altar. He glanced over the crowd, trying hard to hide his nerves. His family was up front to the left, while Evelynne's family was the front row to the right. He avoided all eye contact with Rovan, not wanting his mood to be ruined. They still hadn't solved the mystery of who had tried to poison the spare prince, and the heir was still the main suspect in Ari's book. Also among the crowds were other significant officials of both the dragon and human kingdoms, as well as those of a few of the allied countries.

Ari sighed, setting his focus on the ground and trying to calm himself. It felt like everyone's eyes were on him, and it was nerve wracking. Not to mention the fact that, after this, he and Evelynne would officially be husband and wife. The thought made his heart flutter in his chest, his pulse racing in his ears. What troubles would they face following their marriage? No, he wouldn't think about that. Not now, of all times. The music began to play, signifying the approach of the bride, and Arikizo turned his gaze toward the aisle. 'Calm down. She's as nervous as I am. I just need to calm down. Everything is going to be fine. More than fine.'
 
Evelynne reached the corridor that led to the gardens with her father. Awaiting them were her mother, who didn't look a day over twenty five, though she was much older than that. Also with her were Isaiah and Rynard. Evelynne beamed as she spotted her cousin. "Ryn!" Lifting the hem of her gown, she hurried forward, and embraced him tightly, earning a laugh from the 19 year old. "I have missed you too. You look stunning, Eve. You make a beautiful bride." Ryn would say as he slipped free, giving Isaiah and his aunt their turns. "Beautiful, little sister." Isaiah would muse as he kissed her cheek. "My stunning little girl ..." Her mother would say, her eyes already watering with tears. "Mother ... The ceremony hasn't even started yet ..." Evelynne would tease, getting a smile and chuckle from her mother. "It should be any minute, go take your seats." Her father would say, kissing his wife on the cheek before they slid out into the garden to take their seats.

Taking a deep, shaky breath, Evelynne would bite her bottom lip. "Calm yourself, Evelynne. Everything is fine. It is only natural to be nervous on your wedding day." She thought to herself. Her father looked to her as the music drew her from her thoughts. "Ready?" He asked. Unable to find her voice, Evelynne would nod her head gently. Her father would laugh and kiss her forehead.

As they stepped out, the crowd would stand as the turned into the aisle. Her sapphire blue gaze would immediately latch onto Arikizo. He looked extremely handsome, but you could tell the suit made him uncomfortable, which made Evelynne grin as she tried to hold back a giggle. All eyes were on her, but she muted them out. All she had eyes for was Ari at the alter waiting for her. As they reached the alter, King Roderick would hug his daughter, kissing her on the cheek with watery eyes and a smile before he held out a hand for Arikizo. Assuming he accepted the handshake, He would lean in with a smile. "Take good care of my little girl for me, please." He would say before slipping Evelynne's hand into his and taking his seat next to his wife so the ceremony could commence. Looking to Ari, she would blush gently, Martha adjusting the princess' train quickly before taking her seat.
 
The moment Arikizo caught sight of Evelynne, his pulse quickened even more. The collar of his quit seemed to be choking him. She looked absolutely gorgeous! It took all he had not to just stand there and gawk like an idiot. Instead, he grinned happily, amazed that he would soon enough be calling this lovely woman his wife. He could see the laughter in her expression as she got closer and blushed a bit, knowing she could see how uncomfortable he was in his suit. She hid her discomfort a lot better than he did. As the princess reached the altar, he smiled to her as her father tearfully kissed her cheek. His parents hadn't been so emotional, but that was understandable given how prim and proper they always acted. No doubt his mother would shed at least a few tears. The smile that lit up her face was as bright as the sun that was shining over the wedding.

As he stepped away from Evelynne, the human king offered Ari his hand, and after a moment of confusion he respectfully took the handshake. He gave a nod at the king's request, whispering softly, "I promise she is safe with me.", before the man left to take his seat. At last, the ceremony was underway. The musicians ceased their playing, the classic words began to be spoken. Everything seemed to be just going through the motions as Arikizo could only focus on Evelynne. When it got to the vows, he repeated the words wholeheartedly, his gaze never leaving Eve's eyes. They exchanged rings, his hands shaking a bit from nervousness as well as excitement. And finally, the words that they had all been breathlessly awaiting. "You may now kiss the bride." The entire crowd was silent as Arikizo slowly lifted the veil from Evelynne's face, catching her hand in his and wrapping his other arm around behind her as he gently pressed his lips to hers.

They had kissed each other on the forehead, on the cheek, even on the shoulder once. But never on the lips. So when his lips touched hers, it was like his nerves became live wires, electric shocks of happiness and pleasure coursing through his body. It had finally happened! They were officially husband and wife. As he pulled back, Arikizo rested his forehead against hers, grinning like an overjoyed child. "We did it, Eve." He whispered. And with that, he swept his princess off her feet and carried her back down down the aisle.

((OOC: We can time skip to the ball if you wish))
 
[[ OOC: Okay. I'll toss the time skip in. ^.^ ]]

The look on Ari's face said it all. She felt like the most stunning woman in the world. Watching the exchange between her soon to be husband and her father made her smile affectionately. Though this was technically a political marriage, it was still a big deal for her parents. They were giving away their only daughter to a man they didn't even know. As she listened to the preacher, she would gaze at Ari. She would repeat her vows just as whole heartedly as he did, her gaze never leaving his. She watched him shakily slip her ring on her finger. When it was her turn, she was just as shaky as he had been. Then the words they had been waiting for. "You may now kiss the bride."

Evelynne hadn't realized it until after he had raised her veil, but once her veil was up she released it. Slipping her free arm around his shoulders, she grinned into it as their lips finally met. It was electrifying, taking her breath away as their lips were on each others' It was the most incredible feeling she had ever felt. She met his gaze as he pulled back, a giggle escaping her lips as their foreheads touched. "We did, Ari. It's finally official ..." She murmured softly, squeaking as he swept her into his arms.

Everyone clapped as the newly married couple disappeared back inside. They didn't have much time alone before they were summoned for the ball. Still in their wedding attire, as requested by Ari's parents. Now it was time for the long evening. Looking to Ari, she would squeeze is hand gently. "Let's get this over with, shall we?" She mused, raising herself up on her tiptoes, Evelynne would kiss his lips softly before they headed for the ballroom. "You'll finally get to officially meet my family, even Ryn. He was able to make, though my uncle didn't. He is still to ill for travel." She murmured as they drifted down the hall. She could servants hurrying around, if it wasn't for the ball, it was getting her things moved into Ari's quarters. Now that they were married, they were able to share living quarters. "Ari ...? Promise you will stay close?" She found herself asking with a soft frown. She had been concerned about this ball all day. And what Rovan might try.
 
The crowd's reaction only added to Arikizo's excitement. The day had finally arrived, and the occasion was officially over with. Now Rovan couldn't do anything to get between Evelynne and the younger prince. Perhaps he had postponed it temporarily with the Belladonna poisoning, but he hadn't been able to change anything. Things still went as they were initially intended to go. The newly married couple returned inside, allowed only a short slot of time to collect themselves before the ball. To Ari's disappointment, his parents had insisted on him staying in his suit. How did they expect him to dance in such an outfit? But it couldn't be helped, so he wouldn't worry about it. He was far too ecstatic to worry about much at that moment.

As Evelynne took his hand and spoke of getting the ball over with, Arikizo nodded, smiling. He squeezed her hand gently as they left his quarters, having wanted to direct the placement of some of Evelynne's belongings while the servants had been transporting them from her room. "Yes, let's get it over with." She stood on her tiptoes, and he leaned down ever so slightly as she leaned up, kissing her back. As she spoke of meeting her family, he grinned, excited but also nervous. The king, at least, had seemed pleased with the wedding. Were all of her relatives like that? He pushed it aside, deciding not to worry about it. "Ari ...? Promise you will stay close?" The prince looked down at her and smiled, kissing her gently. "Of course, my dearest Eve." He murmured. He knew she was concerned about the ball, and probably worried that Rovan would try something; he felt the exact same way. But he would be the strong one, so she could relax. "I promise."

As they descended the stairs, he carefully swept Evelynne off her feet. "I wouldn't want you tripping." He teased softly. "I know how steps and long dresses work out for you. It wouldn't end well." He chuckled, kissing her cheek and placing her back on her feet once they reached the bottom of the staircase. Heading the rest of the way down the hall, they finally arrived at the ballroom. The guests turned to look their way as they entered, cheering and smiling, pleased to see the newlyweds. Arikizo linked his arm with Evelynne's, keeping her close as they began to wade through the mass of people. "Now then, who shall be first?" He asked softly, glancing through the crowd to see if he could spot her family.
 
As Arikizo squeezed her hand, Evelynne would relax a bit. She was still a bit anxious. She hated balls in general. Add in the anxiety about what Rovan may try to do, and Evelynne was about ready to run the opposite direction to skip the ball all together. She couldn't though, which she knew. Arikizo was quickly becoming use to the idea of sharing a space, happily helping her decide where to direct the servants with her things. Smiling as he leaned into the kiss, Evelynne would hold it a bit longer than the first. It was still as electrifying.

As he kissed her a second time, reasoning her that he would leave her side, she would relax some. "Thank you, Ari. I feel better knowing you will be with me." She murmured with a soft smile. Once they reached the stairs, Ari would swept her into his arms again, drifting down the stairs with ease. At his comment, she would giggle as she shook her head. "You aren't going to let me live that down, are you? I walked down them just fine earlier you know ..." She mused, leaning in to kiss his cheek before he set her down. Bracing herself for the noise, Evelynne smiled, waving to the crowd as they cheered and smiled. The real circus of the day was only just beginning.

Her eyes were sweeping the crowd as he asked who should be first. She quickly spotted their parents conversing with one another. "Our parents should probably be first, it looks like Isaiah and Rynard are with them. Come on, I know they will like you." She would say with a grin, squeezing his arm reassuringly as they began to wade through the crowd. She would say hello and thank you for coming to those she recognized, nods to those who didn't as the made their way to their parents. Thankfully it took far less time than she had expected.

Looking to Arikizo's parents first, she would bow her head gently. "Thank you, your majesties. Everything is stunning." She would say to her new mother and father-in-law. Looking to her parents first, Evelynne would smile. "Arikizo, I would like to formally introduce you to my father, King Roderick, and my mother, Queen Ana." The queen would look to her daughter, chuckling softly. "We're family now, my dear. No need for the formalities. Just Ana and Roderick are fine. Pleasure to finally meet you, Prince Arikizo." Evelynne's mother would say. She didn't look a day over twenty five and almost a spitting image of her daughter, however her eyes were a soft green and her brown hair was shorter and lighter in color. "Pleasure, Arikizo. We would be honored to have you in our country for your honeymoon, if something hasn't been arranged already." Her father would say with a nod before looking to his parents. "A fine son you have here." He would with a smile and nod.

Once the main introductions and chatter finished, Evelynne would gently lead him away, little bit behind her parents where her cousin and brother were chatting amongst themselves. Rynard looked different from his cousins, fair haired and brown eyed, though he was a couple inches taller than Isaiah. Rynard spotted them first. "There is the happy couple." He would say as Evelynne embraced him with her free arm. "I see how you are ..." Isaiah would tease, huffing in mock irritation. "You will simply have to deal, I saw you more recently than I have Ryn." She teased with a giggle. "Arikizo, dear ... This is my brother, Isaiah. And our cousin, Rynard." Rynard would scowl gently. "Ugh. Ryn, please. Never call me by my full name again, my dear cousin. Or we may have a problem." Evelynne would giggle as he looked back to Arikizo. "Charmed. Do take care of her. She is a priceless, rare gem, this one." "Our cousin is right. It is a pleasure to see you again, Prince Arikizo." Isaiah would say with a respectful bow of his head.
 
((OOC: I will be busy tomorrow through next Friday, and won't have internet access, just to let you know. I'll be able to post something probably once tomorrow morning before I leave))

"No, never." Arikizo teased, grinning. "And you probably had help with your dress. Martha is still up in our room helping the servants move things." Evelynne kissed his cheek, making him smile even brighter. As they arrived at the ballroom, and began to wade through the crowd to get to their parents, he too addressed the guests who had attended the wedding. Most of them he didn't know, but a select few he recognized and spoke briefly to. Soon enough, they reached the monarchs, who warmly welcomed them. Ari's parents returned the bow to Evelynne, both giving her pleasant smiles. "I'm glad that you enjoyed it, Evelynne." Ari turned his focus back to Evelynne's parents as he was introduced. He gave each of them a respectful bow of the head. "A pleasure to meet you, your majesties." He chuckled softly as Eve's mother corrected her. "And the same goes for you. No need to address me as prince. Arikizo is fine." As King Roderick spoke of having the honeymoon in Thiandra, Ari smiled and nodded. "That would be wonderful, sir."


The dragon monarchs gave a respectful smile at Eve's father's comment. The queen threw her arms around Arikizo, a soft cry of surprise and complain ushering from his lips. "I'm so proud of him!" "Mother, please. I am not a child." The prince mumbled, blushing. The queen pulled back, laughing softly. "Now, if you'll excuse us, we have other guests to attend to." He added, steering Evelynne gently away before his parents could embarrass him further. Leaving their parents to continue speaking among themselves. "Now, then your brother and cousin I assume?" He murmured as the two males came into view, letting Evelynne lead the way. Her brother's playfully jealous response made him laugh softly. Isaiah had the same sense of snark that his sister did, it seemed. It must run in the family. As he was introduced, Arikizo bowed his head for a moment to each of the men. "A pleasure to meet you both." Rynard's insistence on being addressed by his nickname brought a bright grin to the prince's face, and he muffled a laugh again. He too had a touch of snark to him. "I will make sure to keep that in mind, if our paths should cross again."

Arikizo nodded at Ryn's comment. "She will be well kept, I promise." He responded. "And a gem indeed. I have never seen one that shines and glitters as she does." He returned the bow to her brother. "I say the same. Though you were a lot less cheerful when we last met. All business and such." He said playfully, though trying to be on the careful side to he didn't accidentally get on their nerves. It would be a pity to ruin a relationship among Evelynne's relatives because he didn't know when to keep his mouth shut. The prince caught a familiar face out of the corner of his eye and glanced aside. Rovan stood on the edge of the ballroom, leaned against a wall, watching the couple though he was trying to be discrete about it. He struck up conversations with other guests, but his gaze inevitably returned to Ari and Eve. 'Just as I expected.' He thought, his grasp tightening ever so slightly on Evelynne's arm. 'He's watching us like a hawk hunting a field mouse. Why can't he just leave us be for one night? Is that too much to ask.'
 
[[ OOC: Thanks for the heads up! ]]

Evelynne would mock pout as he said he wouldn't let her live it down. "I lifted the hem so I could comfortably walk down the stairs all by myself, thank you." She murmured with a giggle. As they arrived to their parents, Evelynne would gaze at his parents as his mother spoke. Ever since Ari's near death experience, things have been far less forced with his parents, which was not only nice, but extremely unexpected.

Evelynne's mother would smile, nodding her head gently and her father beamed as he agreed about the honeymoon. "Wonderful! We can easily make the arrangements so that you can head back with us tomorrow, come stay with us for a week or two. Your father mentioned possibly opening up lines of trade. It would be a perfect opportunity to show you what we have to offer." Roderick would beam, his gaze drifting to Ana who was scowling gently. "What did I say about discussing business at your daughter's wedding?" She mused gently, receiving a playful chuckle from her husband. Evelynne's attention was soon pulled back to Arikizo's mother as suddenly wrapped her arms around her son. At Arikizo's embarrassment, Evelynne was careful to hold back her giggle, but it was extremely cute.

As they steered away from their parents, Evelynne would nod her head gently. "Correct. They are far more amusing, I promise." She mused with a giggle. Rynard would soon look to Arikizo, chuckling. "Oh, I am sure it will. Just because she now lives in another country won't stop me from visiting fairly regularly. I have to make sure she is staying out of trouble after all." He mused, earning a playful slap on his shoulder from Evelynne. "If I was getting into trouble, it was usually because you put the idea into my head. Remember?" She mused. Ryn would grin and Isaiah would chuckle. "Not quite, if you want to be technical, it was probably my fault to begin with, I would usually give him those ideas." Isaiah would muse, making Ryn laugh.

Arikizo would receive a smile and nod from Ryn, and a blush from Evelynne. Evelynne would bite her lip as he commented about her brother's seriousness last week, holding back a giggle. Isaiah would meet his gaze for a moment before smiling. "Well, I have nothing to worry about now that the wedding actually happened. You both seem much more happy about it, I might add ..." Her brother would muse, earning him a fresh blush from Evelynne. She would follow Arikizo's gaze, wondering who he was looking at. Spotting Rovan watching them, a knot formed in her stomach. "Eve, you alright? You look as if you have seen a ghost?" Ryn asked, concerned. Forcing a smile, Evelynne would nod. "Fine, just tired. It has been a long day already." He would nod, but still not fully satisfied. Leaning into Arikizo, she would whisper to him. "Ari ... Don't leave me alone ..." She was scared, borderline terrified that Rovan would try something to either of them if he found them by themselves in the crowd.
 
Arikizo chuckled as queen Ana as she reprimanded the king about discussing foreign affairs at this occasion. They reminded him of his own parents. Although Evelynne's mother seemed a lot less energetic and nit-picky than his own. He noticed the contained laughter that seemed to light up Eve's features and gave her a playful scowl. "It's not funny." He whispered. Once they had made their escape from their parents, being introduced to her brother and cousin was a welcome change of pace. He nodded at Ryn's musing. "Just make sure to send us a fair warning ahead of time." He replied teasingly. "We dragons aren't particularly fond of unexpected guests." The queen, especially; but it was mostly a joke. It would be nice for Evelynne to be able to keep in touch with her family, and see them more often than he'd expected. He couldn't help but laugh as Evelynne lightly whacked her cousin on the shoulder for his comment, and the laugh became slightly louder at the ensuing conversation. His hand raised to muffle the sound.

As Isaiah spoke about being content now that the wedding was complete, Arikizo nodded. "We are much happier, indeed." He responded, daring to pull Evelynne closer and wrapping one arm around her waist. As the princess glanced aside in the direction that Ari had, and Ryn caught onto her obvious discomfort, the prince jumped in so that Evelynne wouldn't have to worry about being pestered further. "My brother, perhaps. He's jealous and bitter that he had declined the chance to marry this lovely gem because he was too wrapped up in his own prejudices; before he got to meet her. But don't worry." He glanced down at Evelynne, kissing her on the forehead. "I won't let him anywhere near you, my dearest Eve." He leaned down, lowering his voice. "I promised that I wouldn't leave your side, remember? And a dragon is bound to their promises." Besides, he didn't trust Rovan not to cause mischief, if not try another dangerous trick. He knew he likely wouldn't be poisoned, as that could easily backfire and cause chaos that would lead back to the heir. However, his sibling was cunning, and he didn't know what he might do.

The music began to grow, the musicians have been playing softly in the background. But now that all of the guests were accounted for, especially the bride and groom, the music picked up in earnest. The guests partnered up gradually, song by song, and gathered toward the center of the ballroom. Arikizo pulled back a bit, returning his hand to Evelynne's arm again. "Shall we dance?" He offered, stepping back to fully bow and offer his arm to her, grinning up at her. "Would you do me the honor, Eve?"
 
Hearing no objection about a honeymoon in Thiandra starting tomorrow, Evelynne would relax. She was going to get to go home for a week, possibly two even if they could get away with it. She couldn't wait to show Arikizo around the market, the neighboring plains, forests, and mountains. She was genuinely excited, though she kept that excitement contained. It also meant being away from Rovan for a week or two, which she was extremely grateful for. Glancing to Ari as he whispered in her ear, she would giggle. "It's extremely funny. And rather adorable if I do say so myself ... And it sounds like we will be able to go to Thiandra sooner rather than later after all." She mused to him quietly with a grin.

Ryn would nod his head gently. "Of course. I wouldn't dream of it. I am much more polite to those who aren't blood relatives, particularly neighboring kingdoms. My aunt and uncle on the other hand, that's a different story." He would say with a chuckle. Isaiah gave him an eye roll. "Indeed. I have lost count of how many times he just appears." Looking to the couple as Arikizo slipped an arm around her waist and Evelynne leaned into him as she rested a hand on his chest, Isaiah and Ryn would both arch an eyebrow. "Keep up with things like that and I will begin to think you truly love one another, not just like." Ryn teased, though he exchanged a knowing smile with Isaiah which made Evelynne blush.

Evelynne gave Ari a grateful smile as he explained the matter. Isaiah and Ryn would both arched eyebrow as they discreetly looked the crown prince's way. "That so? As he should be. She is quite the catch, if I do say so myself." Isaiah would muse, Ryn nodding in agreement. "You are to kind, 'saiah." She would murmur before looking to Ari as he kissed her forehead. "Thank you." She whispered back, relaxing once more.

As the music hit her ears, Evelynne would smile. The only thing she liked about attending a ball was the dancing. Glancing to Arikizo as he offered his arm and bowed, Evelynne would beam. "Of course, Ari ..." She would say as she accepted his arm. Looking to her brother and cousin, she would nod. "Excuse us, gentlemen. Find a pretty lady and dance, it is a wedding reception after all." She would say with a light wave of her hand as they moved to the center of the ballroom. Looking between one another, it would be Ryn to speak up. "She must truly care for him if she is letting him call her Eve. She even has a pet name for him. This just got massively more intriguing ..." He would muse, Isaiah merely nodding as he watched the happy couple.
 
Arikizo was beyond glad that the monarchs had made no complaint about them spending their honeymoon in Thiandra. Away from all this trouble, away from possible threats... at least toward Evelynne, as he couldn't say for sure how he would be welcomed by the rest of her kingdom... and especially away from his scheming brother. Her first words made the prince playfully roll his eye, but grin widely as well. "Indeed. And I look forward to seeing the wondrous sights you have spoken of." As Ryn spoke, he couldn't help but chuckle. "I'm sure they will often appear unannounced." He responded playfully. "If it were entirely up to me, I would say that all of you are welcome any time, regardless of forewarning. But my parents are rather picky about appearances, and no one can promise a spotless castle when they are uninformed of visitors."

A grin spread across Ari's lips as Eve leaned against him, laying her hand against his chest. The quiet moment was enough to nearly make him forget their company until her cousin spoke up teasingly. A blush began to color his cheeks, but he kept a grin. "What is a marriage without love?" He answered, daring to give Evelynne a kiss on the cheek. "You're flushing up like a rose again, Eve." When matters settled back on the topic of Rovan, the pleasant mood was dampened obviously, but he tried not to let the thoughts burden him. Not tonight, of all nights. Ari's smile returned as they spoke of Evelynne and how his sibling should be jealous. He gave a gentle nod to Eve. "He can fume all he wants, but a dragon never gives up their treasure without a fight. And I don't intend to lose to the likes of him."

As the princess accepted his offer to dance, Arikizo grinned, giving a polite nod and smile to Isaiah and Ryn as they made their way through the ballroom. If the rest of the family was as friendly and playful as the relatives he had met so far, he knew that their honeymoon would be very pleasant indeed. A welcome change of pace. Once they found a place among the other couples, Arikizo gently wrapped one arm around behind Evelynne, his hand resting on the small of her back, and lacing his fingers his hers with the opposite hand. The suit was still quite stiff, but he tried to overlook the discomfort and just enjoy the moment. His gaze remained locked on hers, a relaxed smile on his lips. The rhythm of the music led his feet, and he didn't think much of it as he let himself get lost in his wife's eyes. "Had you ever imagined yourself dancing with a dragon?" He mused softly. "Or married to one?" The prince leaned in a snuck a quick kiss. "But I couldn't imagine any better life than this."
 
Evelynne would beam up at Arikizo as she gave him a soft nod. "We will certainly have plenty of site seeing adventures. That I promise. Of course, knowing father, there will have to be at least some talk of business, but I won't let that dampen our visit to much." She would muse thoughtfully. Ryn would grin as he listened to Arikizo, Isaiah smiling gently. "Spotless castles are overrated ... " Ryn would muse, Isaiah rolling his eyes, making Evelynne giggle. "I happen to agree. I don't think it hurts for the castle to at least appear somewhat lived in." Evelynne would say, earning a grin from Ryn and another roll of the eyes from her brother.

Listening to Arikizo, Evelynne would fight the urge to bite her bottom lip, though the same blush colored her cheeks. That is, until he mentioned said blush when it proceeded to brighten some. This made Isaiah arch an eyebrow and Ryn laugh. "Oh, this is just lovely. Keep it up Arikizo. I don't think I have ever seen anyone make our Eve blush quite like that. You're obviously doing something right ..." Ryn would say, taking a step back to avoid the playful shoulder slap that was aimed his way from Evelynne. Looking back to her husband as the topic changed back to Rovan, Evelynne would smile gently. "Don't worry, I won't let you lose to him ..." She would say with a nod.

Grateful with the excuse to get away from her family, Evelynne let Ari lead her out onto the dance floor. Though the room was filled with people, none of them mattered. She had eyes only for one and he was currently wrapping an arm around her waist. Letting her hand rest on his forearm, she would slip the middle finger of the opposite hand through the small loop that had been added to her dress for such occasions. Letting him take her hand, the hem of her dress would rise just enough off the ground so that she couldn't trip on it.

She let him lead her across the dance floor. All eyes were on them, her parents included, who watched with raised interest. "They seem so ... in love ..." Roderick would whisper to his wife who proceeded to smile gently. "Indeed they do ... Not what you expected, was it ..." Ana would muse with a smile. Evelynne would smile up at Arikizo as she nodded her head gently. "I daydreamed about it at times while growing up ... And part of me hoped that the marriage wouldn't end up happening when I was a girl ..." She would begin, returning the kiss with an affectionate smile. "But, I couldn't imagine my life without you in it. I am complete, now that I have you in my life Ari." She would say softly as she held his gaze.
 
Arikizo chuckled and nodded. "I wouldn't expect anything less from your father." He responded with a soft chuckle. "Business does seem to be a popular topic for kings of all kinds." On the topic of the current location, the prince couldn't help but laugh as he listened. He gave a simple nod; the other two males were very enjoyable company, he had to admit. A lot more fun than his own family. Ari chuckled at Evelynne's flustered reaction, finding it quite endearing, but found himself blushing as well as Ryn spoke up a second time. "I would hope so." He answered with a grin, laughing as Eve tried to smack her cousin for teasing them. He gave his wife a nod at her response, smiling. Rovan would not be allowed to ruin this joyous occasion in an sense. Arikizo refused to let the thought even dwell in his mind.

The attention of the crowd didn't phase the prince as the newlyweds began to dance. Ari's focus was only on Evelynne. The way her dress with her graceful movements. The joyful look in her eyes. The dazzling smile that graced her expression, making everything complete. She was a lovely bride, and an even lovelier young woman. He nodded at her response, as he'd shared the same thoughts at a young age. When he was a teenager, he had no doubt his parents would use him as a political pawn, and he would be married off to some princess. But, after all those years of fearing this arrangement, he was more grateful for this than anything else in the world. "Neither can I." He whispered, looking into her eyes and smiling happily. "You complete me. You have brought me light in this dreary castle."

The music began to quiet, and his father's voice pierced the pleasant reverie. "I believe it would be time for an old tradition of ours." The king said, and Arikizo looked at him curiously. His parent explained the dance that the newly wedded bride and groom often did, a competition of sorts. "The male tries to ensnare his wife's wrists with a scarf, while the female tries to evade and trick him for as long as she is able." It was a dance that the prince had seen the guards do sometimes, to test their stamina and coordination. But in his current outfit, he doubted that he would be any good. He approached his father as the crowd began to cheer and twitter excitedly, interested by the prospect of the dance. "You expect us to dance like that dressed like this?" "Nonetheless, it will be done. It is tradition." "But ours is not a traditional marriage." The prince responded lightly. The queen laughed softly and grinned. "You can take off your jacket. It may help you move easier. And perhaps Evelynne's dress may be loosened a bit so she can breathe. Go out into the hall and adjust as need be, the musicians can wait."

Arikizo sighed, looking to Evelynne with a gentle smile as the pair turned away from his parents. "I apologize for this trouble." He murmured. "Such an unfair dance; for you especially. A dragon's stamina likely outmatches that of a human." He grinned, playfully kissing her cheek. "Unless that gift of yours also helps with stamina." He teasing, chuckling. "If we are being forced into this, let's make the most of it, yes?"
 
Ryn would smile at the prince's comment. He seemed so genuinely affectionate and protective of his dear cousin. Ryn would be lying if he said he wasn't surprised. With a marriage such as this one and the complete disdain from Evelynne that Isaiah had described. Well. Let's just say Ryn had been expecting the complete opposite of what he was seeing at the moment. "What do you think of that? Your sister is actually happy with the Dragon Prince. Couldn't be happier for them ..." Ryn would say as he looked to Isaiah, who was currently looking at the couple with a thoughtful expression. "Indeed ..." Would be all that Ryn got out of Isaiah.

Evelynne smiled affectionately up at her new husband. He seemed just as wrapped up in her as she was with him. The look in his eyes as he gazed down at her made her heart skip a beat. The warmth of his touch on her waist and in her hand made her shiver pleasantly. Yes, she was a political pawn in this marriage, but she honestly couldn't imagine herself with anyone else. As she listened to her new husband, Evelynne would beam up at him. Rising onto her tiptoes, Eve would kiss his cheek. "Glad it is mutual. It would be awkward otherwise ..." She whispered with a chuckle.

As the music died down, her gaze would drift to her new in-laws warily as she heard the king speak. Of course, her features showed nothing more than a content neutrality. However, inside she could feel a knot forming in her stomach as the king explained the dance. As much as Evelynne wanted to object, she knew it was not her place. It would look badly in front of the guests anyway, particularly those of Dragon descent.

Meeting Ari's gaze, Evelynne would match his gentle smile as they drifted away from his parents. As the headed out into the hall, Evelynne would chuckle softly. "I am more wary of messing up the dance than whether my stamina will hold up to yours ..." She mused nervously as she turned her back to him. "My stamina is better than a full human, however it still is no match against a dragon's. Mind loosening my corset for me, please?" She would say, having already removed her veil earlier and her hair still up in a bun. "If you want me to make the most of this then I at least need to be able to breath ..." She would say with a chuckle as she gazed to him over her shoulder.
 
Arikizo could honestly say that he had never been happier than he was with Evelynne. And beyond her words, by her expression she seemed as content as he was. He grinned as she leaned up and kissed his cheek, savoring the sweet gesture. This really was a blessing in the guise of a political set-up. He gave a single nod, returning the laugh as well. Her reaction to his father's mention of the dance was her typical masked concern. His hand gently squeezed hers in an attempts to comfort her. And as they headed from the ballroom and into the hallway, the prince was glad to hear her laughter. "No one could blame you if you did mess up. I'm sure I will." He answered with a soft sigh. "I don't see how my parents could expect something like this from you. Even I have seen the dance only a few times. I can only say that it would be similar in style to a waltz of sorts in regard to footwork."

As Eve asked him to loosen her corset, Ari gave a nod. He closed the space between them in a few small steps and focused on on the dress. Perhaps it was the closeness aside from dancing, or the knowledge that if he wasn't careful he may accidentally make the dress slip off, but his pulse was racing, fluttering unsteadily. The prince was sure his face was flushed. His fingertips brushed against the nape of her bare neck by accident as he finished retying the ribbons in place. "Sorry." He whispered quietly, pulling his hands back as his light blush darkened slightly. Taking a step back, he tried to calm his frantic pulse. "Now then..." He murmured, trying to distract her so that she wouldn't tease him. Acting like his nerves were attributed to the upcoming dance as hers were. He was about to offer his arm, but realized he was still wearing his suit jacket.

"Wouldn't it be nice for me to be able to breathe." Arikizo mumbled, chuckling softly at himself. His hands raised to his jacket and he began to unbutton the top few. He struggled a bit due to his nerves. The weight of the evening was beginning to take its toll, with the high expectations. The wedding meant to ensure peace between their kingdoms. The upcoming dance. And Evelynne, in her stunning, gorgeous gown... it was enough to make his heart and mind go on overload. After struggling with the second button, he finally admitted defeat and gave his wife a flustered smile. "Would you mind helping me? I'm no good with buttons."
 
Evelynne would smile gently at Arikizo as he spoke up. "Well, I am glad I won't be alone in my mistakes. It will be far less embarrassing." She mused gently before sighing with a soft frown. "I will try my best. It may not be as traditional as expected, seeing that I have never seen this dance done before. It would have been nice to have been warned before hand, but it is a bit late now. Complaining about it isn't going to make this any better." She murmured as she managed a smile.

As Ari closed the distance between them, Eve found herself releasing a breath that she hadn't realized she had been holding. She could feel her pulse quickening in her chest as she felt him work the ribbon of her corset. Perhaps it was the more intimate nature of the mature or the fact that Ari seemed as flushed about it as she that was making her so nervous. The thought of them having the chance for this sort of closeness in the extremely near future wasn't helping slow her pulse. As she felt the warmth of his fingertips brush her neck, Evelynne let her eyes close as fought the urge to shiver pleasantly. "I-it is alright ..." She managed to whisper back as she turned to face him. She quickly noted his rather apparent blush, but under the stressful circumstances she didn't have the heart to tease him.

Watching Ari move to remove his suit jacket, Evelynne took the opportunity to smooth the front of her dress. She would have to hold up the hem of her rather heavy dress if she was to prevent herself from falling onto her face during the dance. "It certainly would ..." Evelynne murmured with a smile and chuckle of her own. She could see his hands shaking as he begin to try to unbutton his jacket. It seemed the evening was taking a heavier toll on Ari than she realized. Before she could offer her assistance, he was asking for her to help.

Giving Ari an affectionate and reassuring smile, Evelynne brushed a few stray locks from his face before she caressed his cheek. "Of course, my Ari ..." She murmured before she let her hands drift down to his chest. She could feel her pulse quicken again as her petite hands worked each button. A soft blush was soon coloring her cheeks as she loosened the last button. Her hands would drift back up, slipping beneath the coat as she gently nudged it off his shoulders. Once it was off, she held it out for him with a smile. "There. I am sure that is better ... yes?" She would ask. "It will be alright. Just focus on me. Pretend no one else is there, just you and I ... Then we can retire for the evening." She would whisper to him before she lifted up on her tiptoes again, pressing a soft kiss to his lips before she took his free arm. "Now then ... let's get this over with, hmm?"
 
"If anyone dares to criticize you," Arikizo responded with a grin. "They'll have to deal with me. See how well they hold up in a dance that they don't know well either. No one expects perfection, or even for us to be good at it. So don't worry." He gently kissed her cheek, trying to help ease her nerves while struggling with his own. As he worked at her corset, he took note of her reactions. While he couldn't feel her racing pulse and her blush was hidden due to the fact that her back was currently toward him, by her body language she was as nervous and flustered as he was. Evelynne didn't tease him, which he was both glad and surprised at. She rarely missed an opportunity to playfully tease him, and the same went for him. Perhaps the events of the day were getting to them both. However, Eve was trying to put on a strong face like him. And despite this stress, her humor wasn't entirely gone; she still laughed along with him.

The smile made Ari's heart flutter a bit, and her gentle touch was rewarded by a soft, comfortable sigh. How easily she could with such a simple touch. The look on her face as she unbuttoned his jacket was similar to what the prince thought his expression had been while he had been working with her dress. The blush coloring her cheeks. Of course, he didn't tease her. Now really wasn't the time to be playful. They were both nervous and flustered by the expectations surrounding them, and worried that their efforts wouldn't be enough. Or, at the very least that was what he was worried over... along with concerns about Evelynne's safety now that she was officially part of the family. His thoughts drifted back to Rovan for the briefest moment, but he quickly shook the thoughts away. He returned back to focusing on his wife as she proceeded to gently pull his jacket from his shoulders and hold it out to him. "Much better." He murmured, managing a sheepish smile as he took the coat. "Thank you." At Evelynne's comment, he swallowed his nerves and smiled, nodding as he looked down at her. "Yes, let's." And they returned to the ballroom.

All eyes returned to them, but the prince ignored them, focusing only on Evelynne. He knew that if he let his nerves get the best of him, he would do something foolish because of the stress that came with all the attention. He was given the scarf that would be used for the dance, and they were ushered toward the center of the dance floor. The music started up, an up-tempo song, and his eyes. A grin spread across his lips. "Let's try to enjoy this, hmm?" He took the first step of the dance, swiftly , but Evelynne managed to catch on and move away just before the fabric could slip around her wrist. 'This should be fun.'

((Sorry to leave you hanging, you don't know exactly how the dance goes... must sleep... have to work in the morning XP))
 
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