Rebecca paced the plush carpeting of the solar, awaiting her parents' arrival with growing unease. The afternoon's comfort in Freen's embrace now seemed a distant memory as she waiting for her parents. In its place – coils of dread at recounting Lucas's reprehensible behavior twisted through Rebecca's chest despite her attempts to remain calm.

She wrung her hands, eyes darting towards the door at the slightest sound. Where were they? The extra quarter hour wait frayed Rebecca's nerves further. Doubt crept in that they had forgotten or had been delayed by other priorities.

As the minutes dragged on, Rebecca fought back tears. Would they not come at all? She wondered despairingly. What's the point of even trying? The butler had not returned with any message, leaving her isolated in her distress. Thirty minutes passed the scheduled meeting time, then forty-five. Still, Rebecca could not bring herself just to leave, clinging to fragile hope. Feeling utterly alone, she slumped into an armchair, trying to quell her rising panic.

Finally, nearly an hour late, just as Rebecca contemplated leaving, the doors finally opened to admit her parents, King Cedric and Queen Isabella. Relief crashed over Rebecca at the sight of them despite her simmering hurt. As they explained urgent matters of state detaining them, Rebecca blinked back angry tears.

"You could not even send Lawrence with a brief message? I had no notion if you still planned to come," she said quietly, failing to keep a wounded tremor from her voice.

Her parents shared a distracted look before her father responded, "I apologize, my dear, but when affairs of state call, everything else becomes secondary. You know ruling Lumina keeps us tremendously occupied."

Rebecca bit her lip, blinking back frustrated tears as her hands balled into fists at her sides. "But I asked Lawrence to schedule this meeting because I desperately needed your counsel. It could not wait."

Rebecca twisted her hands, swallowing hard. "I...I tried, earlier yesterday to talk with you both. But when I requested an audience, I was told you were occupied with the Ganvian trade delegation and no disruptions were permitted..."

Her father's brow furrowed, trying to recall. "Ah, Lawrence did interrupt us briefly," he admitted with a dismissive wave of his hand. "But it was not of immediate concern."

Rebecca's frustration bubbled to the surface. "How would you know if it was not concerning?! I needed your guidance, your protection! Instead, I was left alone to deal with it."

Her mother's eyes widened in surprise at the outburst, while her father's expression hardened. "Rebecca! Mind your manners," Queen Isabella admonished, lifting her chin disapprovingly. "We did not raise you to behave so hysterically over trifles. What could possibly warrant this kind of display? I hope it is not merely more fanciful complaints about suitors. We are doing our best on that front."

Stung, Rebecca took a shaky breath. "No, Mother. If you would let me explain without dismissal..." She recounted Prince Lucas's behavior, careful to omit the detail of her involuntarily releasing defensive pheromones in a panic when he had accosted her alone. Though she desperately needed her parents' guidance, she worried such an admission would make the matter worse between the two kingdoms and provoke further criticism. She did not want to make trouble or give them another reason to dismiss her concerns.

"I felt helpless," Rebecca finally managed, her voice quivering. "He didn't care about my refusal, he—"

"These matters happen, Rebecca. Lucas is an alpha, and they can be rather forward. You must learn to handle them assertively," her father commented with a dismissive tone.

Rebecca's throat tightened at her father's words. "You're right, I do need to handle situations like this more assertively... But then again, I tried being assertive! Even still, I felt violated and he didn't stop no matter what I did. I... I told him no several times, but he still..." She trailed off, a tear sliding down her cheek.

Her mother's expression shifted then, a faint crease of concern disturbing her previously passive state. "What exactly did he do after you refused him, Rebecca?" she asked, her tone more serious than before.

Rebecca took a shaky breath. "He grabbed my wrist and pulled me toward him forcefully. When I pleaded with him to stop, he seemed pleased by my distress. I was terrified and ended up involuntarily releasing my pheromones."

She lowered her eyes, face flushing with shame. "But that only made Prince Lucas more aggressive. He pinned me against the tree and..." Rebecca hesitated, a sob catching in her throat. "He told me he loved the smell of a frightened omega. And then he tried to..." She broke off, tears spilling down her cheeks.

Queen Isabella straightened, alarm flashing across her face. "Did he hurt you, Rebecca?" she asked urgently.

"No..." she said between sobs, trying in vain to wipe away the tears spilling down her cheeks. "He tried to pull me closer, but I somehow managed to break free from his grasp. When he tried to grab me again, I slapped him across the face and that bought me enough time to escape."

Her parents exchanged a shocked look, both standing up straighter.

"He did what?!" her father asked gravely. Rebecca nodded, as tears continued to slip free.

The queen pursed her lips. "That goes beyond merely 'forward' behavior," she said coldly, turning her gaze pointedly at her husband.

The king cleared his throat under his wife's severe gaze, as his own face darkened. "This insolent pup dared lay hands on our daughter?! He will answer for this insult! His place in the seasonal festival will be revoked until we further address this with his parents."

"I will send word to them this evening," the queen said, her tone booking no room for argument. "Letting such behaviors stand would only enable further misconduct."

Rebecca blinked back grateful tears, tension easing from her shoulders now that her parents grasped the situation's severity. Though they still had not offered the comfort or support Rebecca hoped for, she felt lighter that they were finally taking decisive action.

Her mother's uncompromising tone and her father's words told Rebecca they now understood the inappropriateness of Lucas's behavior and would handle the matter. They may not fully empathize with her fear or trauma, but ensuring there were consequences for the prince's actions mattered greatly.

It disappointed Rebecca that her parents were more focused on appearances, propriety and politics than her emotional needs. But this first step of removing Lucas from the festival felt reassuring. At the very least he would face some accountability rather than total dismissal. It was a small but meaningful victory on the path to healing and potential justice.

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Rebecca stirred her tea, watching the steam fade in the evening air. Across the table Freen waited patiently, no judgement in her eyes as she allowed Rebecca the space to gather her thoughts. Freen had been worried all day after Rebecca left to attend to her duties after their lunch together and it seemed that she was right to worry. When she received an invitation for tea late in the evening, she had arrived promptly without a second thought, wanting to be there for Rebecca.

Finally Rebecca raised her head, meeting Freen's kind gaze with wounded, downcast eyes. "My parents...they did not react as I'd hoped when I told them about Prince Lucas."

Freen's breath caught, her features drawing into a frown. She reached across the table to clasp Rebecca's hand in both her own. "I'm so sorry, Rebecca. I cannot imagine how difficult that conversation must have been. What happened?"

Rebecca's composure crumbled as she recounted her dismissal and hurt. "They claimed such behavior was normal and I simply must learn to handle overly-forward alphas more assertively. As if it were my fault!"

"That is simply not true. While alphas may be inclined to... such boldness at times, disregarding another's discomfort and boundaries is unacceptable, prince or not," Freen said squeezing her hand.

She tilted Rebecca's chin up, catching her gaze with quiet conviction. "And it was most certainly not your fault. The fault lies solely with Lucas for overstepping and failing to heed your refusal. You did nothing to encourage such boorishness."

Rebecca's eyes shimmered with fresh tears. Freen brushed her thumbs over Rebecca's knuckles in a soothing caress.

"I am so very sorry your parents did not offer the support you deserve. But I am here, I am listening, and you have me wholeheartedly," Freen said softly.

At her words, the tears Rebecca had barely held back began spilling down her cheeks. Freen immediately moved to kneel at her side, gathering Rebecca into her arms. Rebecca clung to her, finally allowing the hurt and frustration to flow out in heaving sobs against Freen's shoulder.

"I'm sorry... Just let it out," Freen murmured, gently stroking Rebecca's hair. She continued whispering soothing words as Rebecca cried her heart out, tears dampening Freen's gown. But Freen did not mind at all, focused only on Rebecca and providing her with all the comfort she needed.

Eventually, Rebecca's tears slowed to occasional hiccups and she lifted her head from Freen's now-dampened shoulder. "I'm so sorry," she choked out.

"Shhh..." Freen soothed, cradling Rebecca's damp cheeks in her hands and brushing away the lingering tears with her thumbs. "Never apologize for needing to cry. I told you I am here for you."

Rebecca managed a watery smile. "You probably are tired of only seeing my over emotional side."

Freen tutted gently. "Nonsense. I am happy you feel comfortable being vulnerable with me." She brushed back a lock of Rebecca's hair and pressed a feather-light kiss to her forehead.

Settling back in her chair, Rebecca managed a small, weary smile. "My parents were dismissive at first. But it wasn't until I confessed about how Prince Lucas exploited my distressing release of pheromone to becoming forceful and attempt assault, that they grasped the gravity of the situation."

Rebecca gave a bitter laugh, shaking her head. "I just wish my parents had grasped the gravity when I first told them how forcefully Prince Lucas handled me, ignoring my refusal and distress. Instead of waiting until they heard he outright attempted assault due to my pheromones."

She sighed, new tears gathering. "It's as if they don't understand what we omegas endure. They're quick to brush aside our concerns as frivolous, until something truly horrendous happens. Or worse, shift blame onto us for not being 'strong enough'."

Rebecca dabbed at her eyes with a napkin, hand trembling. "They keep pushing these courtship rituals, ignoring how vulnerable it leaves us with entitled alphas. And then have the gall to act shocked when a suitor crosses the line, as if we should handle repeated dismissal and harassment without breaking."

Freen clucked her tongue in sympathy, cradling Rebecca's hand. "You deserve so much better, Rebecca. So much more respect and empathy. I am truly sorry your parents fail to provide you with safety."

Rebecca sighed deeply. "It's alright. I suppose I'm used to the lack of understanding by now." She gave a bitter laugh. "They raised me strictly as an alpha, you know. Taught me the duties and poise I'd need to rule. As if they could train the omega out of me through etiquette lessons and future monarch edicts."

Her laughter faded, eyes downcast. "I think deep down, my parents never fully accepted me as their heir after my presentation. The omega inside of me was an embarrassment to them and the throne.

Rebecca met Freen's compassionate gaze. "I'm sure they tolerated me because I am still of royal blood. But they do not, and cannot, see me as the daughter they wanted. No amount of alpha conditioning can change my nature, no matter how much I wished. And so I must accept that they will never offer me the care and safety most parents would provide."

Freen squeezed her hand not knowing what else to say. They sat in a comforting silence for several long moments.

Finally Rebecca took a steadying breath, dashing the lingering tears from her eyes. When she raised her head, she managed a fragile but grateful smile.

"There is one silver lining in all this. However delayed, my parents were outraged in the end. Father plans to dismiss Lucas from the festival and notify his parents about pursuing consequences." Fresh tears shimmered in Rebecca's eyes. "I cannot tell you what a relief that is."

Freen gave her hand a final soothing squeeze. "I am so very glad they are taking proper action at last. Though it does not erase the hurt of their initial dismissal, hopefully this brings some sense of justice."

Rebecca nodded, the burden on her heart feeling just a little lighter now that it had been aired. "Thank you, Freen...for listening, for understanding. I cannot properly express..."

"Hush now," Freen tutted gently, "no more distress." She drew Rebecca's hands to her lips, brushing a feather-light kiss over her knuckles. "I will always be here whenever you need an open ear or shoulder - no thanks required."

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In the privacy of their room, King Cedric and Queen Isabella continued to discuss the unsettling issue surrounding Prince Lucas and their daughter.

"I can't fathom how such behavior happened during our festival," King Cedric said, his voice edged with frustration as he paced back and forth in the chamber. "Prince Lucas's actions were beyond unacceptable."

Queen Isabella was barely listening to her husband. She sank onto the lounge chair, tormented by memories she had tried hard to bury - memories of a stolen childhood and missed chances. She remembered a young Rebecca, eager for her affection and attention. Yet too often the affairs of the kingdom had drawn Isabella away, forcing her to leave her little girl in the care of handmaiden and tutors.

Oh how Rebecca had used to plead for a goodnight kiss, a day to spend together. But over time, she stopped asking. She stopped bounding excitedly into her arms to share some joy or accomplishment.

Isabella wrapped her arms around herself, anguish flooding through her as she tried to figure out when the change had started. Was it when she broke yet another promise to spend the afternoon in the gardens with Rebecca. When she saw the spark of hurt and resignation in her daughter's eyes. After that, Rebecca kept her smile guarded around them, her demeanor polite but distant.

The Queen shuddered with remorse. She should have protected the bright spirit of her only daughter while she still could. She should have prioritized Rebecca's precious childhood over the affairs of state. But it was too late now. The damage had already been done, the distance between them a chasm of Isabella's own making. She thought back to how dismissive she had been earlier when Rebecca tried confiding her distress over Prince Lucas. Her own daughter, afraid and violated, yet she had brushed it off as a frivolous complaint. Once again, Isabella had failed her child when Rebecca needed her most.

"We failed her, Cedric," she said softly, throat tightening. "We failed Rebecca as parents from the very start. Our duties blinded us for too long...and now our daughter no longer trusts us enough to seek our counsel or comfort when she needs it most."

The King ceased his pacing. His own anger had distracted him from properly consoling his wife. He came and crouched before Isabella, taking her hands in his.

"You must stop tormenting yourself so," he implored. "The fault lies with Lucas alone - that snake who hid his true nature."

Isabella pulled her hands back, and pressed a trembling hand to her mouth. "No Cedric, the fault is ours too!" she cried. "When have we ever truly focused on Rebecca, on simply being there for her as parents? It was always about grooming her to rule, molding her to be someone fit to be the Queen some day."

She rose abruptly from her seat to pace in agitation. "We push her to excel at her studies, her etiquette, her role as future queen...but do we ever stop to tell her how proud we are of her? Do we celebrate the wonderful young woman she grows into each day?"

Isabella whirled to face her husband, anger and pain twisting her features. "Lucas betrayed and hurt her, yes. But we failed her long before this. We failed her as mother and father by making the kingdom our priority instead of our child! What good is a kingdom if we lose our daughter's heart in the process?"

Cedric stared, stunned into silence by the force of her words. Isabella's chest heaved, raw emotion continuing to pour forth.

"That wonderful young woman who stood before us today, full of courage and grace despite enduring such cruelty alone? Rebecca did not learn that strength from us." Isabella's voice broke, eyes suddenly distant.

"Do you remember how she used to collect flowers for me, even though I rarely had time for pretty bouquets? How she would sneak her hand into mine whenever we walked through the gardens?"

Tears gathering, she looked at her husband. "Our little girl still lives inside Rebecca. But she hides that innocence behind walls we built through years of neglect. If we do not break them down and embrace the person she is - not the queen we want her to become - we will lose her love for good."

Seeing his wife so distraught, Cedric went to her and gently wrapped her in his embrace. Isabella resisted only a moment before collapsing against his chest, her body wracked with sobs.

Cedric smoothed a hand over her hair, his brow furrowed. He had been raised to believe an heir's rigorous grooming took precedence over affection or praise. Had that truly been so wrong? Rebecca would one day be queen - it was his and Isabella's duty to thoroughly prepare her.

"Shhh...do not cry, my dear," he murmured. "We may have been stern with Rebecca, but we gave her the best possible training. I cannot see how keeping her focused on learning to rule makes us bad parents."

Isabella shook with bitter tears in his arms. Cedric sighed feeling conflicted. His instinct was still to defend their focus on Rebecca's education. Yet seeing his wife so consumed by anguish and guilt gave him pause. He thought back on his daughter's childhood - how she had grown more closed off and formal over time. Perhaps they could have balanced her intense studies with some more joy and leisure as a family. But questioning traditions ingrained since birth was no easy feat.

Still...the pain Rebecca now endured ripped at his heart too. Cedric sighed, tightening his embrace around Isabella. "Perhaps you're right, dear. Maybe we should have spent more time with our daughter... But what's done is done."

Cedric drew back to look into his wife's eyes, brushing a lock of hair from her wet cheek. "We shall make it right, Isabella. No more duties and obligations before Rebecca's happiness. We will heal this wound as a family - help restore our daughter's trust in us little by little."

He held his wife's gaze, seeing the sadness in her eyes. Despite the responsibility they felt for failing their child, that did not excuse the offenses that their daughter had to endure this afternoon. The guilt and remorse swirling within her melded into a fury directed fully at the prince who callously disregarded their daughter's distress and safety, showing no regard for decency or respect

Isabella straightened, wiping the tears from her face as rage flooded through her. "It's reprehensible that he dared to act in such a manner. We've been lenient with our neighbors, but this crosses a line we cannot ignore."

Cedric reached out to gently grasp his wife's shoulder. "The situation is in hand, Isabella. I've sent the message to Lucas's parents, informing them of their son's actions." He clenched his jaw, a stormy look in his eyes. "I told them in no uncertain terms that Lucas has betrayed the trust we had foolishly placed in him as a guest. And his offense against Rebecca shall not go unanswered."

Isabella searched her husband's face. "Do you believe they will address this with the gravity it deserves?"

"They will," King Cedric asserted, without a second thought. "We've articulated the severity of the situation. If they choose to disregard our warning, it will have dire consequences."

Queen Isabella folded her arms, her frustration evident. "But will they heed our warning? Their negligence in raising their son is evident in his behavior."

"We can only hope," the king replied, though his tone was laced with skepticism. "If they don't take action, Lumina will but I'm sure they'll respond accordingly."

Isabella nodded slowly, though her eyes still burned with self-loathing for she can do nothing at the moment. She moved to the window overlooking the castle grounds wishing for tomorrow to arrive fast enough to hear back a response. Cedric came up behind his wife, placing a comforting hand on her back. Together they gazed out in shared silence - one brooding, the other raging inside.

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The first rays of dawn had barely shined over the eastern hills when a rider in Feraine colors galloped up to the castle gates. The guard on duty quickly sent word to the king that an envoy from the kingdom of Feraine had arrived with a message.

King Cedric and Queen Isabella hastily dressed and made their way to the throne room, wanting to hear the response from Lucas's parents, hoping that they had grasped the gravity of the situation. The messenger was shown in, road-stained and travel weary, but bearing himself with dignity. He bowed low before presenting the sealed letter, marked with the royal crest of Feraine.

Cedric broke the seal and unfolded the letter, scanning its contents. His expression darkened, rage brewing in his eyes. Wordlessly, he passed the letter to Isabella. Her own countenance clouded as she read.

"What outrage is this?" she uttered in an icy tone. "They claim 'boys shall be boys' and think a mild scolding shall resolve this?"

Cedric slammed a fist on the throne. "Lucas assaults our daughter and they excuse it thus? I'll not stand for this insult!" His voice shook with fury as outrage pulsed through him. "If they will not discipline their son, we shall have to do it for them!"

Before he could utter another word, Isabella placed a hand upon his arm. "Calm down, Cedric," she told her husband, her voice soft yet firm. "I understand your anger but we must not let it drive us to hasty actions we may regret."

Cedric fixed his wife with a hard look, though he held his tongue. Isabella continued, "As offensive as Lucas's actions were against our daughter, by law we have no grounds to put him to trial or discipline him ourselves."

Seeing Cedric about to protest, Isabella held up a hand. "I know it frustrating to simply accept his parents' pathetic excuse and scolding. But they are correct - Lucas is under their jurisdiction as a citizen of Feraine."

She sighed, anger giving way to reason. "We cannot interfere in their legal matters, however much we may wish to.

Cedric stood up and slammed a fist against the wall. "Confound their wretched laws! His actions were done so in our land!" He whirled on his wife. "Would you have us simply forgive and forget then? Pretend no harm was done?"

"You know I want proper amends," Isabella replied sharply. "But we tread dangerous ground. We cannot afford to let emotion govern us now... And Lucas has already departed to Feraine so we can't do anything."

Cedric stared at Isabella, the fight slowly leaving him. His shoulders slumped with the thought that he could do nothing for his daughter.

"Then what recourse have we?" Cedric bit out.

Isabella's eyes flashed with cold purpose. "There is one course of action we still can do. If we cannot punish Lucas directly..." She lifted her chin. "We shall ban Lucas from ever setting foot in Lumina again."

Cedric considered this, the tension in his frame lessening slightly. "Hmmm.... Banishing Lucas does send a forceful message without overextending our authority," he mused, drumming his fingers.

Isabella inclined her head. "Just so. Lucas forfeited any right to be welcomed back to Lumina through his actions."

Cedric beckoned a scribe. "Let us waste no further time then."

Soon a formal decree had been penned with the royal seal imprinted in wax. Cedric inspected the document and gave nod. "Deliver this to King Henri without delay."

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Music and laughter rang out across the dinner banquet as the festival continued. There were more knights on guard now but no one thought anything of it. Everyone was still having a merry time away from their kingdom and getting to know Rebecca and the other heirs better.

Yet amongst the visiting heirs, puzzled whispers circled about Prince Lucas's unexpected departure. The young prince had been present since the start, captivated like all the rest by Princess Rebecca's beauty and charm. Why then had he suddenly left without a word?

Prince Eric eyed the empty chair at Rebecca's table, where Lucas had sat only the evening prior, plying the princess with honeyed words, that may have been a touch uncomfortable, but didn't think anything of it.

"A family matter of some urgency," Rebecca had explained to Eric earlier that day, a flicker of discomfort in her eyes. But no further reason had been given for Lucas's abrupt withdrawal from the festival and the princess's company.

Eric smiled gently at Rebecca as he refilled her wine. "I do hope everything gets sorted in regards to Prince Lucas's urgent departure. Family affairs can be difficult to get over."

Rebecca smiled thinly but said nothing. Believing Rebecca to be upset, Eric gently patted her hand in a comforting manner.

"I'm sure he will send word once matters are settled. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, after all." Eric knew nothing of what had actually transpired between Rebecca and Lucas. He assumed Lucas had been genuinely courting the princess along with himself and the other visiting heirs.

He found Princess Rebecca captivating himself and inwardly he was glad of Lucas's departure. But he quickly dismissed that thought. Rebecca was no prized possession and he should be happy for whoever she chooses as her partner. For now though, he maintained a respectful demeanor, not realizing Rebecca in fact welcomed Lucas's banishment.

Seeing Rebecca still looking downcast and uncomfortable, Eric felt compelled to help brighten the mood. This festival was intended for her enjoyment and perhaps meeting a future partner after all! Lucas's abrupt absence shouldn't dampen anyone's spirits.

"Come my lady! Let us not dwell on whatever pulled Lucas away." Eric gestured expansively. "The night calls for dancing and music!"

He stood and bowed gallantly to Rebecca, hand extended. "May I have the honor of this dance?" Eric grinned playfully, hoping it would make Rebecca smile, although he felt a little silly for his actions.

Rebecca regarded Eric's smile. Though still weighed by all that had passed, she allowed herself to take comfort in his innocence concerning the truth. With a genuine smile finally reaching her eyes, she placed her hand in Eric's.

"That sounds lovely... I'm sorry for my emotions this evening," she said, as they stopped to the flood.

Eric waved away her apology as they took their positions. "It's quite alright. I imagine it must be difficult, going through this process of assessing potential partners. Especially when someone you connect with has to leave without explanation."

Rebecca nodded silently, although that was the opposite of what she was feeling towards Lucas. But she said nothing and just enjoyed Eric's company. Rebecca felt glad some things had not changed - the remaining heirs vying honorably for her hand, unaware of Lucas's rightful banishment.

As the musicians began playing, Eric swept Rebecca gracefully into the quick-paced steps. In spite of herself, Rebecca felt her spirits lifting as Eric spun and twirled her around the floor. His enthusiasm was infectious.

As the dance came to an end, Rebecca's cheeks were glowing and her eyes shone brightly. Eric grinned happily as he bowed to his lovely partner.

"There now, that is how I prefer to see you!" he declared. "You are too radiant when you smile for it to be hidden away!"

Rebecca laughed as they walked back to her table, realizing that for a few moments, she had forgotten her troubles. "Thank you for the delightful dance, Prince Eric. You were right - I did need some cheer after today's weighty events."

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While the festival carried on, just beyond, the east wing corridors were conspicuously silent, patrolled by guards who turned away any curious squires or prying servants. Behind those closed doors, in the council chambers, a very different mood brewed.

Raised voices echoed as King Cedric and Queen Isabella met with the Luminan council.

"Henri has sent over sanctions in hopes to threaten us to prevent our ships from entering Feraine's ports!" Cedric slammed a fist on the table in anger. "As if that will cripple up. We barely sent our ships there anyway."

"Their demands are preposterous! We cannot possibly hand over proprietary trade routes as 'compensation' for Lucas's banishment.'" Lord Gregor thumbed his cane angrily. "The nerve, to demand access to our trade routes and wheat stores as 'atonement,'" he spat. "The arrogant fop overreaches himself."

Queen Isabella sat rigidly upright, eyes flashing. "Indeed not. King Henri goes too far. Banishing Prince Lucas was a justified punishment, not grounds for extortion."

King Cedric paced agitatedly, brow heavy. "Henri threatens to cut all diplomatic ties and place sanctions on Lumina if we do not comply with compensation...as though we deeply wronged them!"

Duke Edgar slammed a fist on the table. "This response comes dangerously close to a declaration of hostility! Our army stands ready to answer any aggression from Feraine."

Queen Isabella raised a halting hand. "Peace, Duke. We do not want to create a war... although we will win if it came to be." She exchanged a look with Cedric. "What matter if they cut ties? We have strong alliances with numerous kingdoms - Kingdom of Aetherhelm and Embera stands firmly on our side. Losing ties with one pales against those that support us and protecting Rebecca."

Lord Gregor nodded firmly, thumping his cane in agreement. "Quite so, your Majesty. Our allies and trading partners span too widely for Feraine's threats to impact us overmuch."

Cedric stroked his beard thoughtfully, his anger abating. "True, my dear. What matter if Feraine takes offense? They offer only a fraction of our trade and troops compared to our other allies." He waved a dismissive hand. "If Henri wishes to break ties with us, the loss shall be his."

Queen Isabella rose gracefully from her seat. "If Feraine aims inflammatory threats our way, we can respond in kind. Their overreaction reveals internal instability we can strategically apply pressure against."

A small, satisfied smile crossed the Queen's face. "Prince Lucas may escape consequences, but the same does not have to be true for King Henri. His foolishness has exposed vulnerabilities we would be remiss not to exploit to Lumina's advantage..."

She paced the end of the table, addressing the council. "As we know, Henri's power relies heavily on the backing of the noble houses and trade guilds within his kingdom. Many are already wary of his reactionary decisions."

Isabella's eyes glinted cunningly. "If we sow doubts among those powerful factions through subtle persuasion and strategic rumors that encourage dissent...Henri's tenuous grasp on internal politics may fracture."

Lord Francis hummed, intrigued. "A clever play, tapping into the undercurrent of instability. And one less easily traced back to us than direct retaliation."

"Precisely," acknowledged Isabella. "We undermine him from within through soft power and discretion. There are particular noblemen and guild leaders we can leverage too, ones predisposed to question Henri's competency."

She smiled without warmth. "And if one day Henri wakes to find his alliances crumbling from lost confidence among his necessary allies...well, regimes have collapsed under less."

Returning back to her seat, Isabella let the counsel ponder her words in considering silence. After a thoughtful pause, she smoothly redirected the discussion..

"In any case, no immediate action needs to be taken... We have a promising potential bond with the Kingdom of Valeria through Rebecca one day."

Isabella allowed a small but genuine smile to cross her face. "As you know, our daughter has forged a warm friendship with Prince Eric during his visit. I have received word from Queen Madeline that the prince was quite taken with Rebecca's poise and spirit and he want an alliance with ours."

A murmur rippled through the room at mention of mighty warrior kingdom. Isabella continued, "Valeria commands the respect of all lesser regions. A martial alliance would fortify our borders beyond measure."

Cedric hummed in thought. "Valeria's forces are legion, their strategies legendary. Securing Rebecca's hand to the Valeria heir would offset any loss of Feraine's support."

Isabella allowed a thin smile. "Indeed. Rebecca's hand in marriage one day with Eric would bring a strong alliance between Valeria and Lumina."

She met King Cedric's surprised yet pleased expression at this news. "Feraine's fumbling has indirectly set far greater opportunities in motion. Rebecca's future with Eric can help carry great influence. This show of strength will prove her worth as a future leader."

Cedric nodded, hardening his features. "It is decided then. We shall have no further discussion about Feraine unless they want a war."

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Rebecca wandered the decorated corridors after extricating herself from yet another dull conversation with a suitor. She was relieved to finally be able to find some peace in her room. All she needed to do escape to her room without further interruptions from anyone.

Rounding a corner, Rebecca stumbled upon her father and mother heatedly discussing something with Lord Gregor and the Captain of the Guards. She hesitated, not wanting to intrude, but her father quickly waved her over.

"Ah Rebecca, I was hoping to find you," her father greeted, though tension still pinched his brow. He lowered his voice and leaned closer. "I'm afraid there is unfortunate news regarding the Feraine alliance you should be aware of."

Rebecca stilled, instantly anxious at his tone. "Has something happened with Prince Lucas?" A dozen of dire scenarios raced through her mind.

Cedric quickly shook his head. "No, Lucas remains barred and there shall be no more trouble from that quarter. But..." He grimaced. "There has been political fallout with the kingdom of Feraine over the incident."

As Rebecca listened with growing dismay, her father described Henri's enraged threats, unreasonable demands, and severing of ties.

"Do not fret, my dear. We have the might of Lumina and allies to discourage aggression," Cedric reassured upon seeing Rebecca's worried expression. "You shall come to no harm from this."

He sighed heavily. "Still, I regret Feraine's lack of accountability. That they excuse such misconduct against you..." His jaw clenched, anger resurfacing. "It shall not be borne."

Queen Isabella touched her husband's arm, expression thoughtful. "We should not speak such matters out in the open, dear. What if someone overhears?"

King Cedric grimaced but nodded reluctantly. "You speak true. I had forgotten where we were and let myself get lost in anger."

He turned to address Rebecca, voice lowered. "Pray forgive me, my daughter. You need not shoulder the burden of Feraine's political failings on such a festive week."

Queen Isabella looped a comforting arm through her daughter's. "Come, let us withdraw to somewhere more private." She looked to Lord Gregor and the captain. "Keep your own counsel about this temporary setback. We shall overcome it without stirring undue unrest."

As Rebecca walked with her mother, confusion and concern swirling within her breast, Isabella gave her a gentle smile and changed the subject. "Do not worry about such matters no more, Rebecca. We are taking care of it."

Rebecca simply nodded with a 'Yes mother' but a faint crease between her brows showed her lingering worries. Sensing her daughter's restraint, Isabella sighed internally but maintained an upbeat air. There would be time enough to regain Rebecca's confidence.

As they slipped into the royal study, shutting out prying ears, Queen Isabella artfully shifted the mood to another discussion. "... In fact, now that unbecoming suitor is out of the picture, we were hoping to ask about Prince Eric of Valeria? We understand the two of you have forged an amicable friendship during his time here."

Rebecca slowly met her mother's keen gaze, keeping her composure neutral as etiquette dictated. "Oh...yes. Prince Eric has been most kind and friendly," she replied simply, offering no elaborate praise.

Isabella's smile faltered slightly at Rebecca's distant tone. Though perfectly correct, her daughter's countenance remained reserved and closed. Sensing the emotional distance between them, a pang of regret pierced Isabella's heart.

Desperate to connect, the queen gentled her voice. "Eric sounds like a thoughtful young man if he goes out of his way to put you at ease." She studied Rebecca closely hoping to see a change in her daughter.

Rebecca glanced down, fingers worrying a crease in her gown before she responded softly. "He is easy to talk to. He is one of the many suitors that I am more comfortable with."

Looking up, she met her mother's encouraging gaze. "Prince Eric shares some of my interest, although, not as much as I. He shares my interest in literature. We talked over an hour about the history of Valeria and Lumina." A ghost of a smile crossed Rebecca's face at the memory before vanishing.

"And he maintains respectful distance in conversation. Never presuming upon my personal space or company." She looked pointedly at Isabella. "Unlike Prince Lucas, who ignore refusals and boundaries."

Seeing Rebecca begin to close up again, Isabella quickly redirected. "It gladdens me to hear that Prince Eric treats you kindly and shows you sincere respect. That is all I wish for you, my dear. To have caring company."

She smiled, tone deliberately light. "And perhaps, if you two continue getting along so well, it bodes well for uniting our kingdoms down the line too, no?"

Rebecca blinked, thrown momentarily off balance at the sudden shift. "I...suppose so. Though we were merely discussing literature."

"Of course, of course," Isabella waved a casual hand before looking at her husband than at Rebecca directly. "But sharing interests often sows the seeds of affection. And affection between members of royalty has been known to lead to..."

She let her words trail leadingly. When Rebecca simply stared, Isabella tried again. "What I mean to say, my dear, is from the way you describe Eric's thoughtful attentions, do you believe relations between Lumina and Valeria fare well towards a cordial alliance in coming days?"

Understanding dawned on Rebecca's face as she considered her response carefully. "I believe Eric and I get along agreeably enough. So perhaps there is potential for a union between our kingdoms." She met her parents gaze. "I'm currently in discussion with my council members about the terms for the alliance."

King Cedric finally spoke up, walking closer to them both, now that there is something that he can talk about. "Ah, you've been discussing an alliance with Eric already? Excellent foresight."

"Well, only preliminary conversations," Rebecca amended. "But yes, I wished to understand what terms Valeria will want secured, and what conditions best suit Lumina's interests before committing to anything formally."

With a glance towards her father, Rebecca continued to tell her parents where she was with her potential alliance with the Kingdom of Valeria. "With guidance from my counselors, I aim to draft an equitable treaty that safeguards Lumina's sovereignty and independence, while still ensuring both kingdoms stand to benefit through balanced trade and cooperation."

Smiling gently, Isabella chose not to press further on the matter of marital alliance. She recognized that Rebecca's willingness to discuss the alliance's terms was a significant step, and it seemed unwise to push the subject into more personal territory at this moment. After all, alliances could thrive on shared values and political benefits without necessarily intertwining with matters of the heart.

"Well done, my dear," Isabella praised, her tone warm and approving. "You are approaching this alliance correctly. A balanced treaty will undoubtedly serve both kingdoms well."

Rebecca, taken aback by her mother's warm acknowledgment, looked at Isabella with surprise. . The praise was an unexpected moment of validation, a sentiment Rebecca had seldom experienced within the confines of the royal family.

"Thank you, Mother," Rebecca replied, her voice touched with a hint of emotion. The unexpected approval made her feel happy but also wary. She wasn't used to such praise and she didn't know what to do with herself.

Isabella's smile widened at Rebecca's response, hearing the slight change in her daughter's voice. The unspoken tension that had lingered between them seemed to dissipate slightly.

Cedric joined in with a hearty laugh. "Our daughter is truly growing into a wise and capable leader. Lumina is fortunate to have such a dedicated princess."

Rebecca's surprise deepened, and a genuine smile graced her features. But she quickly wiped it out of her face, afraid that her parents might retract their praise when they had barely just given her one. Despite the warmth in her mother's words, a lingering doubt crept into Rebecca's mind, whispering that perhaps this moment of acknowledgment was fleeting, a temporary lapse in the usual dynamics of their relationship.

As the conversation flowed back into the intricacies of the potential alliance, Rebecca refocused her attention on the diplomatic details. She couldn't shake off the unease that accompanied the unexpected praise, but she tried pushing those thoughts aside and focusing on the conversation with her parents.

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As the day came to an end, Rebecca sat staring at the flickering candles in her bedchamber, her music box playing a melancholy tune that echoed her mood. She leaned against the cool glass of the window pane, gazing sightlessly over the moonlit gardens below.

Despite the cheerfulness she had feigned all evening, Rebecca felt hollow inside. The conversation she had with her parents in the hallway made her feel uneasy - talks of sanctions, severed trade routes, military readiness.

Rebecca hugged her shoulders, Lucas's leering face swimming before her mind's eye. Banishment had seemed right in the moment. But now tensions escalated by the day, and she couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility. Had she acted too rashly, too emotionally, in revealing Lucas's crime? What right had she to set events in motion that now steered two kingdoms apart?

Guilt throbbed inside Rebecca's chest. She thought of the people who would suffer for this - loss of livelihoods, prosperity dimmed, sons marching to war. All because of her.

Rebecca squeezed her eyes shut, a single tear escaping down her cheek. She saw herself as a little girl again, begging her mother, "is there nothing I can do?" Now it seemed, there was nothing she could undo. The die had been cast. Doubts whispered in her mind that she should have stayed silent and endured Lucas's offense rather than speak out. Was her honor worth such upheaval between kingdoms?

The candles guttered low as Rebecca kept her lonely silhouette, weighted by inner conflict few others could yet perceive.