Dearest Freen,

We were overjoyed to receive your letter. When your past courtships sadly ended, we worried for your broken heart. But we had faith that one day you would find love again. It brings us such joy that you have found someone special at the festival. Princess Rebecca sounds like a remarkable young woman. We are thankful that our encouragement in attending the festival helped lead you to Princess Rebecca's side. But in truth, the credit belongs to you, for having the courage to open your heart once more to love.

The revelation that Rebecca is an omega certainly came as a great surprise to your Father and I. We can only imagine how unexpected and challenging this has been for the princess. Our hearts go out to her during this difficult time. We commend you for providing a nurturing space for Rebecca to process the emotions she may have long been forced to suppress.

We understand this is an emotional and confusing time for you... and princess Rebecca. Your feelings for the princess have clearly grown deeper than either of you anticipated. But what matters most is that you follow your heart. If you care for princess Rebecca as profoundly as your letter indicates, we trust your instincts and encourage you to remain open to love's call.

At the same time, we appreciate you thoughtfully considering how a courtship could impact perceptions and politics. Princess Rebecca's noble upbringing may make it harder for her to confront complex emotions. We advise patience and care as she processes her feelings. If your affection is indeed reciprocated, love will find its way and overcome any obstacles in due time.

However, we gently caution you - given Rebecca's upbringing, it may take time before she can confront the intensity and implications of your feelings, let alone her own. The expectations on an heir to rule with an alpha consort are deeply ingrained. As much as you care for one another, moving forward into a formal courtship could stir very complicated emotions for her that she is unprepared to handle.

Rebecca may unconsciously yearn for your affection. Consciously accepting those desires - especially for another omega - clashes greatly with everything ingrained in her since childhood. We worry that your heart might get broken once more... But who is to say what can happen. We do not want you to not follow your heart because of what we believe might happen. It is ultimately up to you to decide if you want to pursue your feelings... And if you believe that you can handle the possibility of heartbreak, if Rebecca cannot return your affection, then you have our support to persue princess Rebecca. Follow where your heart leads you but also brace yourself for all outcomes, joyous and painful. We are here to support you through either.

Proceed with care, patience, warmth and understanding, as you have always been. Allow Rebecca to dictate the pace without pressure as she processes her own feelings and pressures. If your feelings develops into something more, it will grow organically at its own pace. Just ensure she does not feel undue guilt or internal conflict over her feelings. We know your heart yearns to comfort her. But take care not to accidentally cause more inner turmoil by pushing too intensely for something she is unprepared to confront.

Our beautiful child, know that we only want your happiness. We are so proud of the wise, compassionate woman you've become. If Rebecca is who your heart yearns for, you have our wholehearted blessing to court her. Follow your spirit - it will lead you right. Keep communicating openly with princess Rebecca so you both can discover what shape your bond is meant to take.

Please write to us whenever you need guidance or simply wish to talk through your thoughts. We eagerly await your next letter!

All our love,

Mother and Father

At the Kingdom of Feraine

"You go too far, Cedric! Risking our longstanding trade and diplomatic ties over my son's deserved punishment?" King Henri yelled.

Duke Laurent slammed a fist angrily on the war room's strategy table, upsetting a pile of freshly inked treaties. Maps and parchments scattered across the polished surface, drifting gently to the stone floor.

King Henri bristled, his face purpling. "Deserved? Your lecherous son had the audacity to force himself on the Luminan Princess - only narrowly escaping a well-warranted execution! His banishment was mercy undeserved." He could not believe what he is reading out loud.

Prince Lucas lounged insolently in a high-backed chair, shooting his father a contemptuous look. "Come now. The little tease was begging for it. I simply indulged her until the frigid girl changed her fickle mind."

"Mind that loose tongue before I cut it out, boy," King Henri spat. "Your lapse of judgment has now endangered this kingdom!"

Duke Laurent gestured angrily at the disrupted parchments. "Luminan trade accounts for nearly a third of Feraine's annual revenue. Losing our single most lucrative partner over your disgrace will financially cripple this kingdom!"

"Laurent, be still," King Henri commanded, though his expression remained thunderous.

He paced the war chamber, bile rising in his throat as he recalled the sanctimonious letter from King Cedric that had arrived days prior. It was Henri who had overreacted first. In a brash move, he had sent envoys with sanctions and demands that Lumina pay compensation for Prince Lucas's deserved punishment. He had allowed emotion to overrule reason following his son's banishment. But still, Cedric is going to far. Lucas had not harmed the princess. It was a mere minor error on his son's part. There was no reason to banish his son for such a matter.

"The Luminans clearly believe one violating incident justifies severing prosperous ties that stood over a century. An unreasonable response that will do nothing!" He paced the war chamber, jewelry glinting in the flickering torchlight. "This reactions confirms the suspicions I long held - that Lumina's pious, self-righteous leadership looks down upon Feraine as inferior. Our kingdom, dismissed as expendable!"

As Henri spoke, Prince Lucas tuned out his father's declarations, gaze drifting lazily around the room. This growing conflict benefited him little except to fuel his smothered rage against the Luminan witch who sparked it all - who dared levy consequences against him for simply taking his pleasure as he willed. Lucas's mouth twisted in a cruel smile. One day, he would ensure the uppity Princess paid for her defiance in full...once he clawed his way back to power.

"They think they can sever ties without consequence?" Henri thundered, face purple with rage. He swept maps and parchments from the table in a violent gesture. "I will not let this blatant disrespect stand unchallenged!"

Lord Eldred stepped forward, raising a cautious hand. "Your Majesty, I urge you - please reconsider. Lumina has been our closest ally for over a century. If we push them to withdraw trade and support, the results could devastate our kingdom."

"The Lord Eldred speaks wisdom, my King," Duke Laurent added grimly. "With respect - is defending your son's disgrace worth financial ruin? Worth turning our oldest ally into an enemy?"

Henri whirled on them, eyes blazing. "You dare lecture me about my own son? The Luminans brought this on themselves with their overzealous punishment! I will not bow meekly to their arrogant demands now."

He straightened to his full height, an ominous glint in his eye. "Send envoys to assemble the generals. Our military must stand at the ready to answer any aggression from Lumina."

The room filled with uneasy murmurs. Lord Eldred stepped forward once more. "Please my King! Think of our people, our kingdom's welfare! We implore you - do not let rash emotion guide us to ruin."

He kept his tone placating. "Lumina's wealth and allies run far deeper than ours. If it came to conflict, we would surely come out the worse. Their loss of trade would wound us far more than the reverse."

The counselors watched their king with bated breath, hoping to make him see the folly of his ways before relations were damaged beyond all repair...

Lord Edgar spoke up, his tone respectful but firm. "With respect my king, cutting ties with Lumina would have catastrophic impacts we cannot withstand - famine from trade loss, our armies overwhelmed without their support... I understand this is a matter of pride and principle for you. But as King, your duty must be to our people's welfare first. No worthy cause exists for sending them to hardship and potential ruin."

Henri clenched his fists, anger still simmering in his chest as he struggled to make a decision. The counselors held silent, waiting anxiously. The only sound was Prince Lucas scoffing in disgust at their weakness.

Finally, Henri's taut shoulders slumped. His counselors' words pierced through the red haze of emotion that had clouded his judgment.

They were right. Much as his pride railed against it, jeopardizing long-stable relations, trade and his kingdom's prosperity was not worth defending his son's actions.

"Send envoys to Lumina," Henri commanded at last, exhaustion in his tone. "Inform King Cedric I rescind my previous sanctions and demands. Reparations from my rash actions will be made."

The envoy bowed. "Of course, your Majesty."

Prince Lucas suddenly shot to his feet in a fury. "Rescinding your sanctions? Are you bowing to Lumina's demands after their blatant disrespect to me?"

Henri rounded on his son, temper fraying. "Mind your words, boy! You brought this upon us with your actions. Still you show no remorse, no responsibility!"

He jabbed an accusing finger at the defiant Prince Lucas. "If Lumina withdraws trade, our kingdom's economy will collapse! Does that matter nothing to you?"

"I acted as any man would in my position," Lucas sneered. "The frigid princess got what she deserved for flaunting herself so brazenly."

"Enough! For once take responsibility for your decisions instead of blaming others!" Henri said and he signaled the guards with a weary wave before Lucas could say anything else. "Escort the prince back to his quarters to reflect on the mess his behavior created. Perhaps in solitude he will find wisdom - or at least silence."

Lucas shook off the guards with a contemptuous glance as they seized his arms. "Go on and cower before Lumina if your cowardice compels you, father. But I will never bend knee to anyone."

His voice echoed coldly down the hall. "And I assure you - the princess who dared to act against me will regret it in the end..."

As the guards seized Lucas's arms once again, Henri held up a hand. "It seems that a mere reflection in your quarters is not a sufficient punishment for you."

Lucas looked back with scorn, but flickers of unease crossed his eyes for the first time.

"You leave me no choice in light of your continuing contempt and refusal to accept responsibility," King Henri declared. "As further penalty for your actions, Lucas shall, from now on, reside in the barracks with the common soldiers."

"You can't do that!" Lucas spat, struggling against the guards now dragging him forcibly from the room. "I am a prince - I demand my rights!"

"Titles mean nothing if the wearer continues proving himself devoid of the necessary virtues." Henri sank wearily onto his throne as Lucas's enraged shouts faded.

He passed a shaking hand over his eyes. "With luck, living stripped of privilege shall instill in my son the wisdom and humility so sorely lacking."

Duke Laurent spoke up to assure the king. "Your Majesty, you did the right thing. Prince Lucas needs to reflect on his actions. And if he is not reprimanded accordingly, his actions will not change for the better. His entitlement blinded him to taking any accountability, and mere confinement would not have helped him change his ways. By stripping his rights and privileges, you have set Lucas firmly on the path of reform - or at least prevented him from bringing more harm through his actions."

Lord Eldred stepped forward to agree with them both. "Yes, a wise decision, your majesty. The potential fallout with Lumina lies squarely on your son's shoulders but he is not wary of it. Confinement in his chambers would have done nothing to make him comprehend the gravity of the situation."

King Henri nodded silently. In his blind rage after his son's banishment, he had very nearly brought harm to the kingdom over his son's offense. Were it not for his counselors' restraint, he would have destroyed a prosperous century-long alliance with Lumina. I can only pray the damage I have already brought is not irreversible. Henri rubbed his temples with a heavy sigh. Trade reports and treasury logs weighed on him as doubts plagued his mind.

If Lumina followed through with severing their alliance, could Feraine withstand the subsequent economic impacts that would follow? For the first time, a sliver of fear pierced Henri's outrage. If relations crumbled due to the rash actions of his son, his rule may not long survive the fallout.

Back at the Kingdom of Lumina

Rebecca attempted to focus on the polo match unfolding in the arena below the royal box rather than the roiling thoughts in her mind. She sat rigidly in her chair beside her smiling parents, in the seat of honor intended to give her the best vantage over the match.

The heirs urged their mounts eagerly across the green field as the nobility and citizens cheered from their seating. A server appeared to fill Rebecca's cup with wine and Rebecca thanked them. Yet as Rebecca lifted a goblet to her lips, the sweet wine tasted bitter.

She set it down with an uneasy glance at her seemingly carefree parents. It had been days since Rebecca had received any update on the situation with King Henri's sanctions and threats over Prince Lucas's banishment.

The last she talked with her parents, they had hinted at potential fallout including severed alliances and trade routes unless Feraine rescinded their sanctions. Even the possibility filled Rebecca with dread. And yet throughout the festival events, she had no chance to speak privately with parents to learn about what is happening with the negotiations.

Whenever Rebecca had a free moment, her parents were in counsel, clearly preoccupied with navigating the diplomatic crisis. Powerless to aid them, she could only paste a pleasant facade over her true distress and wait in agony for updates or any sign of resolution.

She wondered if news had at last come from Feraine - if relations continued spiraling toward disaster or if a tentative resolution had been granted. But with no update since three days ago, the not knowing ate at Rebecca from the inside, worse even than Lucas's smug visage still fresh in her memory...

Overcome by restless distress, Rebecca rose abruptly from her seat, the music and the match grating her frayed nerves. She needed air to breathe, space to settle her churning thoughts. As she made muted excuses, her parents glanced up in surprise.

"My dear, is something amiss?" the king asked with a furrowed brow, immediately rising in concern. Rebecca attempted a wan smile, hoping her parents will give in and just let her go.

"Do not trouble yourself, I am well," she assured, avoiding their eyes. "Merely overcome for a spell. The excitement of the day, I suppose." Her laugh rang hollow to her own ears.

Without meeting the searching looks from her parents, Rebecca stepped swiftly down from the royal box. She hastened towards one of the chambers with an outdoor balcony, each measured stride taking her further from the noise. As she retreated, the smiling heirs and guests felt a thousand miles away...

In the still quiet of the deserted chamber, Rebecca pressed shaking palms to her eyes as she got lost in spiraling doubts. She had not been prepared for how it would feel to have the fate of kingdoms lain across her shoulders. She could not have known that the matter with Lucas could have blown to such drastic measures. If she had known, she would have not said anything.

The isolation and helplessness threatened to swallow her whole. Then the softest sound of skirts swished behind her. Rebecca gasped, looking up to meet Princess Freen's worried eyes as she swiftly closed the door for privacy.

"Hi," Freen said softly, offering Rebecca a small smile. Not wanting to further upset her, she lingered quietly in the doorway, one hand still resting on the door knob.

"I saw how distressed you were when you left and I wanted to make sure you are alright." Her tone was soothing and her posture unintrusive, sensitive to Rebecca likely wanting to be alone. But open concern shone from Freen's eyes for the princess and she hoped that Rebecca wouldn't push her away.

"Please, come in," Rebecca said softly, suddenly desperate not to lose her company. To her own surprise, Rebecca felt relief sweep through her. Freen's very presence seemed to lessen the swirling worries threatening to pull her under.

She tried waving away Freen's concern with a flickering smile. "Truly, you needn't have troubled yourself to check on me," Rebecca attempted lightly. "I merely needed some air and quiet from the festivities for a moment."

She turned away under the pretense of adjusting her hair in the mirror, hoping to disguise the lingering panic in her eyes. "It was all just rather...noisy and overwhelming out there..."

Her voice trailed off lamely. Even to her own ears the excuse sounded feeble, especially with Freen's eyes watching her so intensely in the mirror's reflection.

"Of course - I too felt the same. It can get loud sometimes during matches no matter how friendly of a match it is." Freen moved to stand closer to Rebecca but hesitated to embrace her without permission. She ached to comfort the distressed princess, but it was clear Rebecca wasn't ready to confide her problems.

"Would you care to sit awhile? Being off your feet might bring some relief."

Rebecca managed a wisp of a grateful smile at the discreet change of subject. "Yes...yes I think I would. Thank you."

They settled onto the cushions and Freen made sure to keep a considerate space between them. She wanted to be closer to Rebecca but she could still see how tense Rebecca was.

Hesitantly, Freen reached for Rebecca's hand, gently massaging it between her own. "I hope you don't mind," she asked softly. "My mother always said a hand massage could soothe away tension."

Rebecca managed a grateful smile at the pleasant tingle left in the wake of Freen's fingers kneading her palm and knuckles. Slowly she began relaxing as Freen skillfully rubbed the stress from her hand without demanding conversation.

After a few moments, Freen broke the silence. "Prince Cai seems quite good out there today, is he not? I imagine it takes extensive training to strike the ball so cleanly."

"Oh did he? I was a little distracted throughout the match." Rebecca replied, visibly brightening at the harmless topic.

"Hmmm that's alright. Polo isn't for everyone," Freen said warmly. "He struck some goal shots in the first half of the match. They were really impressive swings."

She began gently working her thumb in comforting circles over Rebecca's palm. "I dare say prince Cai has secured his standing as tournament favorite after today's exhibition." Freen kept her tone light and face cheerful. "Not that the others lacked talent of course!"

Rebecca followed Freen's lead, adding some of her thoughts about the tournament contenders and she began to relax into Freen's touch. A peaceful conversation followed and any lingering distress from the princess seemed to go away by the soothing contact between them.

Freen kept up her ministrations, throughout the conversation before she eventually stopped and just held Rebecca's hand in her own, occasionally giving it a reassuring squeeze. She could see the tension easing from Rebecca's face and posture as they talked lightly about the tournament.

Noting the lingering shadows in Rebecca's eyes despite her brighter demeanor, Freen hesitated, then asked softly, "Will you tell me what's troubling you so?"

She rushed to add "You needn't feel pressured, of course. I only wish to listen, if sharing your thoughts would bring some relief."

Rebecca stayed quiet, gazing down at their joined hands. But she gave Freen's hand a squeeze as if to reassure there was no offense taken. She didn't want to burden Freen any further than she already had. After a long moment of hesitation, Rebecca sighed deeply.

"I received troubling news from my parents three days past regarding Prince Lucas's banishment... It seems King Henri took great offense and implemented sanctions upon our kingdom as retaliation."

Rebecca's voice quavered slightly. "My parents warned that severed alliances and trade routes could follow if we do not rescind the banishment. I've heard no further update since they first told me of King Henri's reactions."

She lifted her eyes to meet Freen's comforting gaze. "I cannot stop thinking through all the potential fallout that could unfold if negotiations fail - the livelihoods disrupted, resources cut off, relationships damaged beyond repair... I-I feel as if I should have not told my parents of the incident with Lucas. If only I just stayed quiet and pretended that everything was alright... Then none of this would have happened."

Rebecca's breath hitched on the wave of panic swelling within. But Freen's hand anchoring hers kept her grounded in the present.

"I just wish I could aid my parents in some way to prevent the worst from coming to pass. But all I can do is wait helplessly while they manage the diplomatic crisis behind closed doors. The uncertainty and isolation in this has been wearing away at me ever since I first learned of the sanctions."

Rebecca fell quiet, shoulders sagging under the invisible weight. A heavy silence enveloped the room, the cheers and chatter from the distant crowd providing stark contrast. Freen considered her words carefully as she gazed at Rebecca's distressed form before finally responding.

"Your parents have decades of experience in diplomacy. The fact that they are not visibly worried makes me believe they have the situation under control and are working toward resolution."

Freen spoke gently but firmly. "Please do not doubt yourself - YOU did what was right in coming forward about the prince's behavior. The fault is his alone."

She paused, waiting for Rebecca to look at her, then continued on. "As for King Henri's reactions...Feraine relies heavily on trade with Lumina to thrive. Severed ties would harm his people rather than yours. I cannot see relations deteriorating that drastically over one banished prince... that is if he is a wise king unlike his son. And if it comes to war, Lumina's military strength far surpasses Feraine's."

Giving Rebecca's hand a comforting squeeze, Freen gazed at her intently. "Your parents WILL know how to handle the situation wisely. And based on their current actions, I believe they are trying to prevent you from worrying unnecessarily about the situation. I'm sure they will come find you once everything is resolved... So take heart, Rebecca, and do not despair. Focus instead on the tournament festivities - they will provide good distraction. This unease will pass."

Freen slowly pulled Rebecca into her embrace, hoping to impart some measure of comfort and courage through the contact. She stroked Rebecca's hair soothingly. "All will be well, Rebecca. Have faith."

King Cedric sat rigidly upon his throne as the envoy from Feraine was ushered into the hall by the guards. Queen Isabella was gripping his arm tightly, tension etched across her normally calm features.

While Rebecca stood quietly to the side, displaying no emotions on her face. She was standing as regal as ever but there was a brittle edge to her composure. Her eyes were remote, gaze fixed at some invisible point as if not fully seeing the proceedings.

To the court, the Princess appeared as calm and collected as ever. But Elara noticed subtle signs of tension in the clench of her interlaced fingers, the taut line of her shoulders beneath her gown.

"Your Majesty," the envoy greeted with a deep bow before the royalty. "I come on behalf of King Henri with a message of reconciliation regarding the recent unfortunate events between our kingdoms."

Murmurs rippled through the assembled courtiers. King Cedric raised a hand for silence, his piercing gaze never leaving the nervous envoy.

"King Henri rescinds the sanctions and implications of conflict previously set forth. He humbly seeks forgiveness for his rash actions and offers recompense for any damages resulting from the dispute."

The envoy withdrew a sealed parchment from within his tunic. "Here is the formal account and King Henri's personal seal as a gesture of utmost good faith. along with the announcement that Prince Lucas shall face punishment by residing with the common soldiers until he shows necessary remorse and wisdom."

King Cedric let out a slow breath, some of the rigid tension leaving his frame. At her father's obvious relief, Rebecca felt the pressure in her own chest loosen slightly. The reconciliation was welcome news, even satisfying to hear Lucas would endure some consequences for his actions.

Yet as the envoy continued talking, Rebecca felt herself begin to tremble. She attempted to calm her shaking limbs, distressed at losing composure. But despite her best efforts, she couldn't stop her trembling, even as the rest of her composure remained upright.

"Please inform King Henri that his reconciliation is accepted in good faith," Cedric finally replied. "While the offense committed by Prince Lucas cannot be forgotten, we shall not allow it to tarnish centuries of strong ties between Feraine and Lumina."

The envoy bowed once more, relief finally crossing his features as he accepted the king's words. As the envoy withdrew, the Queen descended the throne towards her daughter. Rebecca had grown increasingly pale and quiet as the envoy relayed King Henri's message. She had only seen her start to tremble because she was carefully watching her daughter. Not that the matter was resolved, the emotions of the past days were clearly catching up to Rebecca.

"Come, let us withdraw so you may rest," the Queen murmured gently, guiding Rebecca towards a side passage with an arm wrapped supportively around her trembling shoulders. One of Rebecca's ladies-in-waiting followed close behind, waving away any attending courtiers to give the Princess privacy and space.

King Cedric watched his wife and daughter go, heart aching at seeing Rebecca so shaken. He turned back and called back to retrieve the envoy once more.

"Inform King Henri that we are glad that he decided to make efforts in reconciling. But make clear that any further actions against my daughter shall irrevocably shatter ties between Feraine and Lumina, no matter the diplomatic cost."

Frigid warning lurked in Cedric's tone. "Princess Rebecca remains my heir. Prince Lucas should give thanks that trade alone bears the consequences of his offense. Were it my choice alone, his life would justly pay for the trauma he inflicted."

Queen Isabella maintained a strong hold on Rebecca's shoulders as she guided her trembling daughter through the castle corridors. The ladies-in-waiting trailed silently behind, shooing away servants and giving the royals space.

At last they reached Rebecca's bedchamber. Isabella dismissed the hovering ladies with a kind look before shutting the heavy door to afford privacy.

Rebecca stood in the middle of her room, arms wrapped tightly around herself. She seemed so small and lost, not at all like her normal self. Isabella's heart hurt seeing her daughter so withdrawn.

"Come sit, my darling. You need not keep up any mask of formality here," she urged gently. When Rebecca made no move, Isabella went to her instead. She reached to lightly grasp Rebecca's cold hands clasped at her front.

Rebecca flinched slightly at the contact. She kept her gaze lowered, remaining held in tight self-containment even as faint tremors continued to shake her frame.

Isabella sighed softly, letting her hands fall. "I cannot imagine the agony you now wrestle with alone, my dear. I regret having lost the right to share fully in your burdens. But I am trying, Rebecca."

Rebecca's chin quivered slightly at her mother's words but she didn't want to cry. Today was too much, and if the tears started, she feared she wouldn't be able to stop. Worse, if she exposed that vulnerability and her mother left again, Rebecca didn't think she could handle it. Her emotions felt too raw and chaotic now to risk further damage if Isabella withdrew.

So instead, Rebecca took a shallow, bracing breath and compelled her tears back through sheer force of will. She had shed enough where others could see. The rest would have to be wrestled with alone until she had strength to erect her composure again. She barely managed a whisper in response:

"I know you're trying Mother. But please, I just...I can't right now..." She hugged herself tighter, willing her voice not to crack. "I think I need to be alone. This day has been too much."

Isabella's heart broke seeing her daughter in such distress yet still unable to seek comfort from her own mother. She hesitated, then slowly moved to wrap her arms around Rebecca's rigid frame, gently pulling her into an embrace.

Rebecca remained tense and unyielding. But Isabella only tightened her hold.

"I'm so sorry, my darling," she whispered. "I know it doesn't erase the past, but I swear I will not leave you alone."

She stroked Rebecca's hair as tears pricked her own eyes. "You have been so incredibly brave already. But it's okay to let go now, Rebecca. I'm here, I've got you."

At her words and touch, Rebecca finally crumbled. She turned into her mother's embrace with a choked sob. The first sob tore from her throat as she turned in to cling almost desperately to her mother. Isabella cradled her daughter close in her arms, whispering soothing nonsense as Rebecca unleashed days of unspeakable fear and anger.

Isabella blinked back her own tears as she guided them both to sit curled together on the bed. She rocked Rebecca gently, letting her cry out the emotions, rubbed her back in slow circles. Rebecca's cries tore from her very core, beyond her ability to restrain. She clung desperately to her mother with an almost bruising grip. But Isabella didn't even notice any discomfort, overwhelmed with relief that Rebecca was no longer suffering alone.

She cradled her daughter close, one hand gently stroking Rebecca's hair while the other clung securely around her back. She rocked Rebecca as her daughter cried her heart out, letting her release her pent up emotions until there were no more tears to shed.

At long last Rebecca's sobs faded to hitched breaths and exhausted whimpers before giving way to silence. Her grip on Isabella's gown finally relaxed as sheer exhaustion took over. Isabella continued rocking her daughter's limp form as Rebecca's breath evened out in sleep. Her poor child was completely drained and had fallen asleep without realizing.

Careful not to wake her, Isabella shifted Rebecca and herself into a more comfortable position tucked together on the bed. Despite exhaustion seeping into her own bones, Isabella had no intention of moving from Rebecca's side.

She held her daughter protectively in her arms as Rebecca slumbered, stroking back mussed hair from her pale face. Even with eyes closed and breathing deep in sleep, Rebecca's expression looked troubled, brows faintly furrowed. She hopes that one day, that her daughter can have a restful sleep without worries.

Rebecca slowly started to wake up, clinging to the last remnants of sleep. She kept her eyes closed, fighting wakefulness. It took her moment before she realized that there was extra warmth next to her and arms wrapped around her body. Opening her eyes slowly, she saw her mother's face right next to her own. The events from the stressful day before came flooding back - the envoy's arrival, nearly crumbling before the court, her mother guiding her away and then...

Rebecca tensed, feeling suddenly exposed and uncomfortable as memories of sobbing uncontrollably in her mother's arms washed over her. Her actions the prior evening with her mother made her cringe. After years of holding herself tightly guarded even with her parents, completely falling apart still felt foreign and frightening.

Isabella, who had her eyes closed, sensed her daughter stirring as Rebecca's breathing shifted from slow and even. When she felt Rebecca start to pull away both physically and emotionally, Isabella tightened her embrace.

"Good morning, my darling," she murmured. ""Just rest a little longer."

"Mm alright, Mother," Rebecca mumbled, voice slightly hoarse. She kept tense in her mother's hold rather than melting into the maternal comfort offered. The solid composure Rebecca rebuilt around herself since waking felt safer than openly showing her emotions on her sleeves again. Even with her mother's affection, she couldn't bring herself to unravel yet again.

"Truly I'm fine," Rebecca asserted more clearly as she pulled back from mothers arms and sat up. She kept her gaze lowered, focusing on smoothing skirt wrinkles instead of meeting her mother's searching eyes. Part of her craved accepting the warmth she'd lost for so long from Isabella. But right then it required too much vulnerability that Rebecca didn't possess energy for so soon again.

"Last night was...I was overly tired from everything that has happened," Rebecca attempted dismissively. "It made me overly emotional. I-I'm back to myself now." She risked a brief glance up at her mother's worried face before looking away once more.

Isabella sighed, letting her hand fall onto the bed. She had hoped the way Rebecca opened up the prior evening would help rebuild some of the lost trust between them. But she could see Rebecca rebuilding her walls to lock her out again.

Still, Isabella didn't want to push Rebecca too fast and risk her withdrawing even further. So she remained quiet, simply gazing at her daughter to see if she was well.

After a few moments, Rebecca tentatively met her mother's eyes again. She felt guilty seeing the hurt there and part of her wanted to offer some comfort.

"I...appreciate you staying with me last night, Mother," Rebecca said haltingly, a slight flush rising in her cheeks. "It was...kind of you. To remain here."

Isabella's expression softened. "Of course. I wouldn't want you to be by yourself after..." She stopped suddenly, not wanting to make Rebecca dwell on the distress of the prior day any more by voicing it out loud.

Rebecca managed a small nod in response, seeming to understand her mother's thought process. They sat in silence for a little while, the atmosphere gradually losing some of its awkward tension. Neither quite knew how to break the quiet that had settled between them.

Such conversations were unfamiliar territory - in recent years, the pair had rarely spoken beyond formalities. Yet despite the lingering awkwardness, there was a closeness now that had not existed before.

Rebecca stole a glance at her mother, seeing Isabella in a new light after last night's care. Never before had Rebecca felt such affection and support from her. The memory of it spread warmth in Rebecca's chest, even as her instincts still warned to keep some shield raised between them.

As morning light began spilling through the curtains, Rebecca felt her composure steady itself. She asked her mother about plans for the day, keeping her tone carefully casual. Isabella answered lightly, relief coursing through her as Rebecca initiated a conversation with her. Though still reserved, Rebecca seemed less closed-off than when she first awoke. The princess remained a bit formal, but Isabella didn't mind. It warmed her heart to simply chat amiably with her daughter, something that was new for both.

Rebecca went through the motions of her morning princess duties, trying her best to focus as Elara chattered lightly around her. As Elara helped style her hair and select a gown for the day, Rebecca found herself staring blankly ahead, their voices fading to a dull hum. She felt drained, numb even.

When Elara tried engaging her in conversation, Rebecca responded with polite but clipped answers. She kept up her appearance, yet inside she felt detached and exhausted. Worried and unused to seeing Rebecca so withdrawn, Elara softly asked if anything was the matter.

"No, I'm fine, thank you," Rebecca replied automatically, managing a small smile that didn't reach her eyes. In truth, she wasn't fine at all. But she wasn't ready to open up to Elara of the matter yet.

As Elara gathered an array of hair ribbons and began braiding Rebecca's hair, she hummed softly, a soothing melody that eased some of the tension Rebecca held in her body. Though Rebecca remained quiet, Elara's soothing presence and the familiar routines of the morning brought a small measure of comfort.

When Elara was done styling her hair, Rebecca regarded herself absently in the mirror. Despite her melancholy mood, she appreciated Elara's efforts. Her handmaiden continued to try and engage the princess in light, harmless conversation - the weather or amusing castle gossip. Though Rebecca responded in monosyllables, the chatter was a small distraction from her heavy thoughts.

By the time she was fully dressed, Rebecca felt neither the sharp edge of her prior distress nor the lifting of true relief. Still, she managed a slightly brighter smile for Elara's sake as her handmaiden escorted her out the door to face the day ahead.

As Rebecca went through the day's schedule - public appearances, meetings, obligations required of a princess - she felt herself going through the motions. The weight of maintaining an image while struggling internally wore on her.

It was Princess Freen who first broke through Rebecca's walls later that day. Catching Rebecca alone after a council meeting, Freen was delighted to see her without formal company or obligations surrounding her. She had hurried over, a cheerful greeting on her lips. But the words died as Freen took in Rebecca's demeanor up close - though Rebecca managed a polite smile of acknowledgment, her eyes were distant and posture weary rather than glad for Freen's appearance. Immediately she knew something was amiss.

Over the next couple days, Freen made an effort to seek Rebecca out. Whether chatting lightly over tea to distract Rebecca from her thoughts or just reading together quietly at the library, Freen brought Rebecca comfort by just being there for her. One crisp morning, she even invited Rebecca out on a horseback ride.

As the pair set out across the countryside, the wind whipping color into Rebecca's cheeks. Freen challenged her to a race, laughter trailing behind them as their horses' hooves thundered over the meadow. Feeling the wind tangling her unbound hair and hearing nothing but Freen's playful shouts and their mounts' rhythmic gaits, Rebecca found her numbness fading for the first time in days.

By the time they circled back to the stables, cheeks rosy and a little breathless, Rebecca realized she felt truly lighthearted. Her body still hummed with the excitement of racing across the fields and it left no room for darkness. As she met Freen's grinning, wind-flushed face, Rebecca smiled back, maybe not back with equal warmth, but her spirits were lifted by this gift of a perfect morning.

Eric, who could also sense Rebecca's distress, invited her on a walk one afternoon to enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Though quiet at first, Rebecca gradually opened up more during their meandering conversations. Walking along the path, Rebecca glanced over at the prince, his presence sturdy and reassuring.

"Prince Eric, if you don't mind me asking...what made you decide to train as a knight?"

Eric smiles, gaze thoughtful. "Service has always been valued highly in my family. My father and uncles all served in Valeria's military forces when they were younger before they came to be where they are today. Even my father once joined the military before he had to step away and do his duties as a King... I suppose I wished to uphold that legacy - prove myself worthy of the crown in the long line of Valerian warriors before taking it up fully."

He pauses and glances back at Rebecca. "Though I confess, some days when I was a young, exhausted and covered in bruises from training, I did question my choice," he says with a wry grin.

Rebecca returns a hint of a smile. "Yet still, you persisted and earned your knighthood."

"Yes I did," Eric said, smiling down at Rebecca. "And I take pride in standing among Valeria's elite guards. More than just glory on the battlefield, the training has taught me discipline and resilience."

Rebecca nods slowly, seeing the wisdom in his words. She bites her lip slightly before speaking. "Do you think those things - discipline and resilience - can be learned even without such training?"

Eric reads the veiled meaning in her tone and considers his response. "We all have reservoirs of inner strength and courage. Sometimes circumstances force us to draw on them in ways we didn't expect. Other times mentors and friends can guide us to find them when we doubt their existence."

He offers an encouraging smile. "But, in a way, it's up to you to decide if you let those circumstances break you or make you stronger."

Rebecca felt thankful for his words. She knows the trials she just endured tested her deeply. Part of her worries she already broke under the pressure instead of rising stronger. Yet Eric's quiet confidence and empathy make her reconsider. She did feel as if she grew a little stronger. Though she still carries wounds from her ordeal, Rebecca realized she found her voice when she finally opened up to her parents about Prince Lucas's behavior. Where in the past she may have endured it alone if someone did wrong by her, but she was able to name the wrong done to her, however difficult.

She doubts she will be able to confront injustice so directly again so soon. Old instincts still warn to avoid making a commotion. But having taken a step out of the shadows, she knows that she can become better without constantly worrying.

"...You speak truth, Prince Eric," she says finally. "I cannot control what life puts me through. But there is power in how I respond, even if it takes time to find my footing again." Rebecca meets his gaze. "Thank you for reminding me there are still choices left, however small they may feel."

Eric dips his head and smiles gently at her. "Of course. I'm glad I could offer you some strength."

A few days later, Princess Amara also asked for time with Rebecca. Seeing Rebecca's changed behavior after their date, she requested Rebecca to join her for tea once again. As Rebecca sipped her green tea, Amara's questions and funny childhood stories coaxed little smiles from her. She taught her some of Veridia's greetings and phrases, delighting in her curiosity. She stumbled a little over the unfamiliar words, but was glad to learn something new. The lightness between them seemed to help ease the burden Rebecca felt recently and she felt herself getting better without her knowing.

By the end of the week, though still bearing inner scars from her ordeal, Rebecca felt the heaviness in her heart lift thanks to her new friends. The distress that once overwhelmed her, subsided day by day and she no longer felt weighed down.