The sun shines brightly, high in the blue cloudless sky. Birds fly leisurely in the winds above children racing in the fields. Women talk and laugh as they drink tea idly by the river. Far on the left side of a grand palace in the woods is a man hunting with a group. Their horses slowly make its way through the trees after their prey. Aidkjeen kingdom is warm, and at a fountain in the middle of the grand palace there are birds that play in the water.

The rays shimmer on the water falling in the fountain. The sound of birds flapping their wings as they soar across the gardens of the palace calling for their young to stop bathing and return to the skies with them. This tranquil peace is not disturbed by the woman racing through halls. If one were blind they would not know that she is there, not a sound she makes. Those blessed with eyesight are met with shock. For running through the halls of the palace, while not unheard of, has never been done by this woman, servants are beside themselves in shock. High Princess Aaleyah, her crown somehow is not losing its balance on her long black hair. Perhaps it is her beautiful braids at the top of her head that hold the crown in place. Her crown shines in the sun, her footsteps fast but silent, not scaring the life in the garden she quickly passes. The blues and red of her gown flying like feathers behind her. Royalty. That is what she is, the lack of shoes is a testament to that. Within the rich palace the ground is so smooth that it is the culture norm to go barefoot. 

Guards and servants make way for her. The bright blur of colors as she passes has them immediately standing off to the side to bow. For the first time she does not acknowledge their bows and continues racing past them, finally reaching the west wing of the palace. Some guards are hesitant if they should follow behind her, but then again the only guards who have the right to trail her are currently with the High Prince. As long as she is within palace walls guards can just patrol the area and need not follow her every step. However, seeing her racing they debate leaving their post to chase after and help her. 

The servants only dare to look up for a mere moment to confirm she is gone before raising their heads. The high princess has just raced past them. The persian blue of her dress, and onyx colored hair confirm it. It truly is their high princess. But what has happened? Some servants stand dumbfounded, dropping the broom in their hands, has the high princes always been so fast? Has she always had such speed? How can she even run in that dress? Or a better question, with the jewels on her wrists, how does she make no noise? Surely running that fast panting should be heard. No? 

The high princess has always carried herself with poise and grace, and while there have been rumours of her athleticism, no one has ever seen it the way they have just now. The high princess bides her time with books, being great friends with Prince Hammun who also spends his time studying. Or music. High Princess Aaleyah is a musical prodigy, an amazing dancer, but no one has seen her dance for years. With the speed she showed as she raced by, one can conclude that she is still doing some sort of exercise. 

Arriving at the huge gold plated doors she stops. There are 2 guards on either side of the door, a staff in their right hands. Their eyes shifting right is the only sign of shock they give to seeing their high princess racing towards them. Surely she does not plan on entering. One raise of her brow and the guards avert their gaze from her. 

Staring at the blue and red crystal handles she attempts to calm herself. Her hands fidget to smooth out invisible creases of her floor length gown. Once she is certain it is soothed out, her hands go to her head, adjusting and readjusting the crown on her head. Her fingers run to comb through her onyx colored hair. She can feel her nerves building, the tightness in her stomach a tell-tale sign. Placing a hand over her chest she takes deep calming breaths. 

Behind these doors is the king's court. The meeting has been underway for 3 hours, and no one is to enter without permission. The way to get permission is usually not difficult, she is married to his son, and normally she can enter with him, or send her guard in through the side doors to alert him. The problem is that she was told specifically to stay at the queen's side today. She is not supposed to be here, and she especially is not supposed to plan on entering the king's court. To do so is ignoring his first order of staying at the queen's side. 

It just so happens her husband is gone, and prince Hammun is also gone The queen has ordered her to retrieve the king. The king's order has more power logically, but the queen's injury is something that is a secret, asking for the presence of the king means that the queen may be in grave danger. If the king knew he would want to be by her side. Therefore, High Princess stands before the doors preparing herself to order the guards to also break the rules and allow her to enter. 

The meeting today is to suggest an alliance, to help form peace, for only a fool would think that the kingdoms are at peace. There are turbulent winds in the air, and that is why this meeting with one agenda has taken hours. To force herself inside in the middle of attempting to strengthen partnerships between nations may possibly undo the hours of work that has been done. The king will be angry. Taking a calming breath, she hopes Prince Hammun can politically untangle the mess she is going to cause. 

The guards standing at the side of the door take notice of their high princess' actions, as well as her mutterings. Their response, a stoic firm exterior as if there is nothing out of the ordinary. Not for fear of her, but out of respect. Her status as well as the silent order she gave them when she arrived prevents them from speaking and gazing upon her for too long. Her persian blue jewels and silks that align her dress and jewelry represent her status. The wife of the first born son of the Aidkjeen Kingdom. 

"Breathe." she calmly tells herself. Her fingers continue to run through her hair. He will not hurt her immediately. He cannot kill her. She reminds herself. Not only am I an Aljehni, but I am married to High Prince Saan. Parting her hair to fall on either side of her shoulder, "I have a message for the king." she tells the guards in a calm authoritative voice. 

The guards share confused looks. She doesn't mean to open the door. "High Princess Aaley-"

"Open the door." she orders, her commanding gaze daring them to say no.

The guard's hand automatically goes to the door just by hearing her voice, "High Princess -"

"I will not repeat myself." She is not here to break the law. She is just here to give a message, with that thought she throws her hair back to fall on her back. She fights the innate need to adjust the crown that has already been laid perfectly atop of her head. Swiftly glancing at the guards, it is not possible that they can hear her heart pounding. Is it? Her feet becoming filled with sand, almost impossible for to walk further. But she has to. She must! 

The guards seem to have internal battles, but in the end they both open the door. 

She is to be the future queen of the kingdom, nothing shall be able to noticeably cause her fear. Besides, the sooner she does this the sooner it is over. What can she truly have to be afraid of, she does not have much left to lose anyway. She has a duty, and she must act it out perfectly. 

How ridiculous, after the experiences she lived through to be afraid of what lies behind a door. It is no longer the crazy murderous king that sits on the throne. No longer the paranoid king that slaughtered her family in fear. No, King Saamun is not sitting on the throne. Instead the benevolent King Hammaan, friend to her father, is on the other side of the door. There is nothing that shall cause her fear. Giving a nod to the guards she gives them a slight smile to ease their confusion and steps inside. 

As she walks she keeps her head high, the inside of her cheek is bit down hard as she maintains her cold expression. 

In the room there are advisers and ministers on the left and right in front of the King's throne. They seem to be in deep discussion and when the doors open all eyes go to the intruder. Who would dare interrupt the King's court?

The high princess's steps are ones filled with poise and grace. Her eyes do not drift to the advisors that stare in shock before remembering who she is and quickly looking away in shock. 

The high princess!

Here!

Surely she has not lost her mind?

What could be the cause for her to break the law, and go against all that she is?

The advisers begin to mumble to each other in dismay. There is a new king on the throne, but some advisors still share the sentiments of the previous king. An Aljehni is too selfish. They think they hold more power than they deserve. They need to be put down. Why, this is proof enough that they have no respect for the throne. King Hammaan was a fool for allowing the last Aljehni to crawl her way back into the palace. 

Others recall the bright light that was the Aljehni family. Recall the prosperity the family once had, and all the ways her family has aided the kingdom. If anyone deserves to walk into the king's court outside of the princes, then yes; it should be the last living Aljehni. 

Some advisors' comments grow louder and bickering is sure to start, but a glance from the king is all it takes for silence to take over the hall once more. 

High Princess Aaleyah's eyes stay on the back wall, for if her eyes stray the facade of strength she found for herself at the door will falter. The hall is big as she walks the path to the King's throne. When her husband wished to take her hand in marriage, it was this very path she took with him. Then the path seemed short, now it us as if she has taken 80 steps, and is still not halfway there. 

Politics, Aaleyah spends most of her time out of the limelight. The further you are from the light the harder it is for the demons to see you. To the advisors she has never come to a meeting, but her thoughts, ideas and plans have entered this room more than they might believe. This treaty that they discuss is a joint idea from the king, Prince Hammun and herself. Which may be another reason why the king will not kill her. But he will punish her. What punishment will it be? 20 lashes? Whipped? Or for entering where she should not her leg may be broken ensuring she will not be able to easily repeat the same crime. These are the thoughts the calm High Princess walking towards the king has. 

Finally reaching the bottom of the steps leading to the throne she kneels. Her eyes fall to the floor, and her head moves to the side baring her neck. One can only hope that the exposure of vulnerability will allow the king to have mercy and hear her out. At least have him hesitate before punishing her. 

It is kneeled on the ground that she makes note; a crime is only terrifying before you start it. Once knee deep in the action, what else is there to fear? You cannot back out, can only continue the action. Then again, as thought before, death would put a damper in her plans, yes. However, it is not something that she needs to fear. Punishments, they are not horrible, she has already received punishments in the past. Pain only lasts so long, physical pain will always go away eventually. 

The king's eyes scrutinize the high princess's every move. She does not fidget and plead for forgiveness, she does not stare and say useless words. She waits, waits for him to address her; and the king pauses a few moments to see if the fear will get to her. It doesn't seem to. The advisors on the other hand look petrified. 

High Princess Aaleyah stays kneeled, a delicate swan sitting atop the pond ignoring the water underneath it that may just be aflame. His respect for her bravery is masked with anger at the meeting she has interrupted. "What business do you have entering my court without permission?"

The advisors on either side of the aisle visibly flinch at the question. Some wonder if the king will really punish the high princess. Would he? Could he? Well of course in theory he could. But the relationship between the King and the high prince does not seem very close and it is hard to say if this will be the final straw that destroys the relationship. 

Others fear that he will kill the high princess, which is what they would like, but not now. Her reputation has been restored and too many powerful people will ask questions. 

The question sends a shiver down her spine, but she masquerades it by bowing deeper.

Fingers tap rhythmically on the arm of the throne, "The punishment from breaking the law is death." His voice booms throughout the throne room, "I can strike you where you kneel." 

Releasing her cheek from her sharp teeth she swallows. She miscalculated, death in front of the advisors is in fact something to fear. She must not allow them to win. At least one Aljehni must remain standing. Digging her nail into her finger she opens her mouth to speak. "Your majesty, my deepest apologies. I come with grave news from the Queen." She pauses to gauge his response. He has not made a motion to interrupt her, and the anger in his eyes slightly fades, his head tilting, the sign that he is listening. "I come with news that is important enough to risk my life in hopes you hear it. I will accept all punishment, I only beseech you to hear my words first." She keeps her head slightly down, her eyes not trailing higher than the step closest to the king's feet. 

Rising from his seat the advisers make a show of falling out of their seats to kneel to the king. The king walks to the first step, not yet descending, "Rise High Princess Aaleyah and tell me your message." 

Taking another calming breath Aaleyah rises, her dress shimmering in the sunlight pouring in from the windows and the roof. Her hair shining, and light bouncing off the cuffs on her arms. "Your majesty, the queen has fallen ill. It has happened suddenly, and she requests your presence." Her eyes finally trail to the king's face. Transpiring the urgency to the king, her eyes connect with his, softening as she recalls the pleas the Queen gave before she ran here. 

The queen was barely awake, tears in her eyes as she pleaded for her husband. Continuously asking where he was, demanding he be at her side. Her eyes turning red, her nails scratching against the wood as she tried her best to hold in her pain. The king must go, he must aid the queen. No one else can calm her, and she is harming herself trying to hold back her screams. 

The king nods his head to her, and then the hall is moving again. He beckons a guard to begin to make the way for him to leave. With a message to his head adviser he begins to take his steps down the stairs, one motion of his hand and everyone is standing at attention. "Head Advisor Roshah will continue this meeting. As for the signing of the treaty, it will be discussed when Prince Hammun arrives." With a glance around the room, "I will return when able." 

Then the king's tall frame finally approaches Aaleyah. The sun rays that cover her disappear as she is enveloped in his shadow. He stands before her, the warmth disappearing from her skin. 

Her heart beats through the floor, her feet pulsing each time. She has to receive punishment. She said she would, she only asked for him to hear her first. The punishment is death but he will choose something different, that is if the king wishes it. For the king is law, only he is able to change it. Her eyes trail to the sword on his left hip, then to his arms relaxed and swaying at his sides. The king is a skilled swordsman, if he wishes to kill her would she notice? Would she have time to flinch before the sword leaves his scabbard and slits her neck? Then again, after all the king has done for her, he would not dare harm an Aljehni. She must remind herself this, she never needs to fear death, living is worst.

The king is almost past her when he gives one command, his voice soft yet firm, "Come with me." 

Rising her head she turns swiftly to heed his order, her face stoic once more. To the advisors it is as if she never held any fear. Her head held high, this is truly High Princess Aaleyah that the people love and respect. This was the Aljehni that people laid their lives for. 

Exiting the court all men and women present, bow their heads. Some in the back spare glances at each other. Will the king punish her without an audience? High Princess Aaleyah came with good cause. But rules are rules.

Some advisors shake their heads. With everything that was done to High Princess Aaleyah, she of all people deserves remorse and grace.

Others believe that death going to the Aljehni will be deserved. To put it simply, some believe that she has lived long enough. However, those advisors would never voice that in the king's court after he silenced them moments earlier.. 

Leaving, the king's steps are calm yet swift. One could be fooled into thinking he was not worried at all. Aaleyah speeds up her steps, reminding herself to stay two steps behind. 5 steps behind her she can hear the guards following. Finally matching his pace she takes notice of his appearance. He wears an ultramarine loose sleeved robe, just a shade darker than the blue of her royal gowns. The robe does not cover his forearms, and she can see the scars he received from the day of the revolt. She can only hope this injury to the queen does not brush up old struggles, and it is not a soft stone with promises of a landslide. The soft rose red strings of silk on his pants is the only other color he wears. He too walks barefoot, showing the prosperity of the royal family. A prosperity that is now backed with fairness, for King Hammaan is fair and just. Yet, Aaleyah knows more than anyone, that good people do not always receive what they deserve. 

Glancing back at her, King Hammaan wonders if the time to use the power of Aljehni is here. For years she has protected the stone, and worked to rebuild the prestige of her family name. However, the world is changing, and if the meeting about the treaty wasn't reason enough, his Queen being injured could be. He had already placed more guards by her side and she still got hurt. Will the time of the stone be arriving? Is young Aaleyah ready to fulfill that duty? Turning a few more corners they both arrive at the queen's wing. The king turns to fully face her, seeing past her stoic look and noting the fear and concern in her eyes. It is slight, and it took many Blue moons for him to be able to read her. But there is a softness to her gaze, and as his eyes travel down he can see her index finger rolling around the tip of her thumb. She wishes to see the queen, he knows she does; but there are tasks she must complete first. 

"You are to wait and explain the situation to your husband and brother-in-law when they arrive. Prince Hammun will return soon and finish up the meeting. When he comes to you, I need you to explain everything that happened. After Hammun arrives you are to speak to your husband in private." He motions to the jewel placed at the center of the engraved waves on her crown. Within the jewel are 2 lights that seem to glow in the rays of light. "It is time to explain the importance of an Aljehni." His head tilts slightly, "Am I understood?"

The nail of her index fingers pushes against her thumb. 'The importance of an Aljehni.' The reason her family was killed. After years it is back to haunt her. There is no escaping it, she has not even been able to receive justice from all those who have done her family wrong. 

Folding his arms across his chest, "Time is up. We can no longer leave history in the past." the king says, he needs not explain any further she has always known this time would come. His eyes drift to the tattoo on her arm, the key to pain that she has never shared with anyone. Even he himself does not know all the history behind it. The history books speak of it yes, and he has a few more details than others due to his close friendship with her father, but the Aljehni stone is information passed down from bearer to bear. Even her siblings did not know as much information as she does today. 

A generation ago, many believed that any Aljehni could wield the stone, only after the massacre of her family did the king learn that only 1 stone bearer is born each generation. It was his son's love for Aaleyah that kept her alive, and luckily kept the stone alive.

Now that trouble only brews and he can only hope that his eldest son can grant Aaleyah some peace and comfort as she tells him the information that her family died over. The king can only hope that his son will listen and not react. 

Hand over her chest, she bows low, "I understand the command I have been given." she formally responds. She will wait in this here spot, 5 paces from the door, 5 paces from the guards. She will stand rooted in place until Prince Hammun comes. Then with bated breath she will wait to walk with her husband to their quarters. There she will do her best to follow her orders. 

Orders. Xeyn learned how to manipulate orders. Xeyn would not hesitate to lie. Would not bat an eye at the death happening around her, she was numb to it. Xeyn had nothing to lose. And the men of the political world became her playing field. Xeyn almost started another revolt. Sadly that girl is gone. Aaleyah had to return, she had to restore honor to the Aljehni name, and bloodshed was not the way to do it. Now Aaleyah has her name, and the small family that she fears caring for too much. She has Hammun to lose. Hestia to lose. Aaleyah has the people who support the Aljehni name to fight for and defend. She has Saan to lose. Thus, regardless of her trepidation, Aaleyah must follow the king's orders. She will be brief, she will be short, but she will tell Saan the important things. 

The king, with nothing left to say, enters the queen's chambers, leaving Aaleyah alone in the hallway. 

Facing away from the guards Aaleyah reaches her hand up to trace the waves on her crown. Four blues waves on both sides, specs of ruby infused in the blue to represent sunlight. At the center of the waves is her stone. 

Every royal member has a crown catered to their position. The colors are the same blue and red, but each member's crown shows their importance to the kingdom. Everyone has a symbolic piece, and the crowning ceremony is one of the most sacred events. High Prince Saan's crown holds 4 red and blue jewels. The leader of the 4 members of his family, and the 4 corners of the kingdom. 

Prince Hammun's crown is decorated with a gold tree branch wrapped around a grapevine. He received it after drafting peace between kingdoms, and that was how he became engaged to Hestia. The daughter from the Nevalvn Kingdom. Hammun managed to keep her kingdom safe from upcoming war, his crown is decorated from the grapevine native to that kingdom and the branch to represent strength. 

Princess Hestia's crown is more on the simple side, a grapevine traveling from the right to the left side of her head. As long as she wears it the Kingdom of Nevalvn is safe. She is the centerpiece for her kingdom's prosperity. 

The stone at the middle of Aaleyah's crown is still red and blue, like lights chasing after each other in an endless circle. The waves meet the stone for the stone is a part of life. And just how water comes and goes, life too flows like water. From the stone on her crown, her eyes drift to the tattoo of the stone on her left arm. Moving the fabric of her dress to the side, her tattoo is infused with the magic of the stone. It never goes away, its glow, while not bright enough to guide her way through the dark, is still brighter than natural skin. 

Placing the crown back on her head, 'Talk to your husband.' Those are the king's orders. Saan has shown no sign of keeping secrets. Despite the time they were apart from one another, Saan's love for her had only grown. Whereas from her side, she has given up on the idea. All life ends in death, to waste your heart on loving what will leave is a fool's action. She has given up being a fool. She has given up on many things.

To talk about the stone, would this be the conversation that can prove to Saan that their love is impossible? That despite being married they are still held back by their name and responsibilities? Aaleyah once wished that they could marry and raise children, and grow old together. Then she only wished that if they marry she could keep her family history to herself for as long as possible. Yet, they have only been married 5 moons and it is already time to explain. 

Looking at the window ahead of her she checks the stance of the guards at their posts. These are the king's guards, if she walks away they will not follow her. Not that any of that matters, when Saan comes she will do as asked. She will tell Saan about the stone. Never mind the history of her family and the ties to it. 'Explain everything, the importance of an Aljehni.' If she thinks hard enough the order is not very specific at all. There is a loophole in everything. Her husband needs not feel the weight she carries. Not truly. He already has the kingdom on his shoulders, the less he knows of her pain the brighter his smile is. 

With those thoughts she turns, a calm smile on her face. There is still some energy of trepidation, but she is not nearly as anxiety driven as before. Besides, who will know if she withholds information about being an Aljehni? All who could truly know are dead. Those thoughts calm her and she leans back against a pillar and closes her eyes to await the Prince's return.

Standing silently with the guards, some time passes. The sound of insects brings on false peace, and it is broken at the sound of a woman's, "High Princess Aaleyah!" the yell is heard from a female voice that is not yet seen. As Aaleyah opens her eyes she can see her friend running towards her down the hall. The guards do not move from their post, but their eyes scan the young princess.

Princess Hestia sprinting down the hall is nothing out of the ordinary. This youthful princess is always seen running about. Sometimes she is even dragging her fiance with her. Or the young guards, she is always running to and fro different gardens looking for specific herbs, or in the kitchen trying new teas. When she runs many guards can only pray they are not the victims she chooses to drink the new concoctions she makes. 

The left side of Princess Hestia's azure blue gown is held in her right hand so she does not slip. Her crown sits lopsided on her head, some strands of grass and leaves stuck in her braid. She must have heard the news and ran immediately from the gardens. As a native from the Nevalvn Kingdom that is known for their teas and spices, she fits the image well. This newest addition to the royal family gifts everyone she sees with tea, and tends to all of the gardens in the palace. The flowers decorating her hair paints a beautiful picture of the garden loving enthusiast she is.

"Princess Hestia, there is no need to run." Aaleyah gently chides with a light smile on her face as Hestia comes closer. 

Some strands of Hestia's chocolate brown hair have escaped her braid. The long strands framing her face, and haphazardly laying on one shoulder. Hestia gives no care to the crown that seems to be falling off of her head, her eyes focusing on Aaleyah and rushing her small legs towards her. 

Finally reaching her Hestia stops, and without taking in a breath to steady herself after running, her questions race from her mouth. "What happened? How is the queen mother? Is she hurt? How did she get hurt? Or worse, is she sick? Did she not drink the tea I gave her? Or is she hurt because of the tea I gave her." Hand covering her mouth in shock, "Oh no, is this my doing?" Brushing her hair away from her face, she looks at Aaleyah with eyes shining with unshed tears, "Please tell me she will be okay." her chin trembles, "I can not bear to lose another mother." her voice shakes as her words fall to a fearful whisper. "Why are we waiting outside?" She looks at the closed door, "Are we unable to walk in? Has the king arrived?" Running fingers through her hair she unconsciously twirls the loose strands with shaking hands.

"Princess Hestia, the queen mother will be alright." Aaleyah comforts in a soothing tone. "The king has already gone inside, and we will calmly," her eyes quickly dart to the guards and then back to Hestia, "wait for his command before entering inside." Aaleyah gently pulls Hestia's arm to have her stand at her side by the wall, blocking her view from the guards and the door. Fixing her hair, Aaleyah straightens the crown on Hestia's head and smoothes her azure blue gown. "Prince Hammun will arrive soon after, but do you know where High Prince Saan has gone?" she asks. 

This morning Aaleyah left early to aid the queen and has not spoken to her husband. Although, she is aware that he spoke of going hunting whenever he had time to spare. Aaleyah can only hope that he has not gone far to hunt, and that he has already been on his way back. Horses have been sent out for him, but with the sun high in the sky, he would surely be on his way back to the palace at least an hour ago. 

Prince Hammun will finish the meeting quickly and efficiently, he will arrive before her husband. Then he will leave with Hesita, and Aaleyah will stand alone working her nerves, prepping what to say, how much to say, and hoping that the queen is alright. Mind filled with thoughts, Aaleyah keeps her voice calm and steady to not alert Hestia. 

Hestia has always been the butterfly of the family. Her emotions run free, and while Aaleyah has grown to learn the pains of expressing herself, Hestia has never felt the fears to warrant such behavior. Thus the fear of losing the queen is evident on her face. The revolt moons ago was the first time Hestia had experienced strife, and now her face shows fear that more pain can be heading her way. 

Squeezing Hestia's hands, Aaleyah takes deep slow breaths to help calm her. Her fingers slide to rub against her pulse, and once she is certain Hestia is calm, she smiles and releases her hands. 

"If the queen's health is not in danger then why are we unable to go in there?" Hestia pleadingly asks. The tremble in her voice almost masks the frustration she is feeling, as her childlike face takes on a serious expression. Turning her head away from the door Aaleyah's expression forces Hestia to bow her head in remorse. "You are right. I apologise. The king has asked us to wait. I mean not to question him, or you." she says, crossing her arms over her chest nervously. "High Princess Aaleyah I apologise." 

Shaking her head slightly, "I understand your nerves." Aaleyah comforts, "You did a great job catching yourself and remembering where we are." she says in attempts to lift the young princess's spirit.

Rubbing her hands over her elbows Hestia nods. She is aware of the seriousness of the situation, but still feels remorse from questioning her friend. "I know you also share my feelings, I should not cause you trouble."

Poking Hestia's cheek with her index finger, "I am not angry with you princess." she smiles warmly. The action of poking her cheek forces Hestia to smile and move her head. 

Leaning close Aaleyah whispers, "I understand your fears Hestia, but one must always be aware of the eyes and ears that surround them." she advises. Then in a joking tone adds, "We all know how much the guards love to gossip."

The sentence causes Hestia to giggle as the women remember when Hestia had made a mistake with the tea and turned Prince Hammun's teeth purple. Despite telling no one outside of Hammun, Saan, and Aaleyah, the news still managed to spread throughout the palace.

"Have you heard from High Prince Saan before coming here?" Aaleyah asks, trying to mask her lack of patience. Or maybe it is just anxiety. She hopes for her husband to come quickly, and she always hopes she can take his time. It is possible that the lack of knowing when he will arrive is what causes her the tight feeling in her gut.

Nodding, "On the way here I passed the horsemen and some seemed to be preparing to leave but there was one that was taking off the saddle. So I am sure that Prince Hammun will be coming soon." Grinning widely, "He has such a way with words, there is no doubt that he will finish the meeting." she says in a proud tone. "As for High Prince Saan," she rubs her chin with her knuckle, "I am not quite sure. I did pass many servants who were looking for him." Noticing the unease on Aaleyah's face she shakes her hands, "But do not fret. High Prince Saan will come as soon as he is able." she says, hoping to comfort her friend. Hestia opens her mouth to say something else when she spots someone from the corner of her eye. Her eyes immediately brightening. 

"High Princess Aaleyah." his voice is easily recognizable, despite the sunlight behind him making it hard to see his face. 

The two princesses turn towards the end of the hall. It takes a few seconds, but the moment he steps past the pillar and the sunlight disappears from his face, Prince Hammun's face is seen. His black hair lightly curled from the humidity of the day as it lays atop his shoulders. His gold crown with beech tree branches wrapped around the grapevine still sparkles in the small rays of sunlight from the windows as Prince Hammun walks. 

Reaching the women he smiles at his fiancee before focusing his attention on Aaleyah. "Is there any update?" Despite the situation his words carry a soothing tone. 

Bowing slightly, "The king immediately entered the room almost an hour ago." shaking her head, "There has been no update."

Prince Hammun nods and looks at the door. "At times like this no new information is good." he says focusing on his fiancee's worried depression. 

Aaleyah nods, "The queen and I had tea together, and after took a walk in the garden. She seemed a bit faint, and tired. After returning to her chambers she asked for the presence of his majesty." she explains, giving some information, but with direct eye contact Hammun is able to understand the information not said. "Of course there will be an update on the queen's condition after you speak to the king and doctor inside." Her eyes swiftly go to the guards at the door. 

Hammun nods, "Yes we will all discuss this in more detail soon." Turning to Hestia, "My princess, I know you are worried, but I am sure all will be well with the queen." Hammun takes Hestia's hands in his own, stopping her from pulling at strands of her hair.

Waiting a beat to allow the young couple to have their moment of peace, Aaleyah looks down the hall. Which direction will Saan come from? Will it be from the stables? Or will he run through the palace from the main gate? 

Turning back to Hammun, "Prince Hammun, may I ask if you are aware of the whereabouts of High Prince Saan?" It is possible that Hammun was originally with Saan. There are rare times when Saan drags his brother hunting, and during those times Hammun always sneaks off to return early. 

Hammun smirks and shakes his head. "I was hunting with him, but I left 3 hours earlier and was actually meeting with the school of Ahlin when I was called to come to the meeting." Hammun's eyes soften when he sees Aaleyah close her eyes. A habit he has seen her do numerous times when she is controlling her emotions. "Princess Aaleyah." he keeps his voice relaxed, gently urging her to open her eyes. When she does he continues, "I have no doubts that the moment my brother hears the message he will arrive at a speed only he can muster." Adding a lighter tone to his voice, "Knowing my brother he will jump from the horse and come straight here. One can only hope that he failed in catching prey today and will not be covered in the blood from the carcass he is always intent on carrying himself." Shaking his head, "If we are lucky he will leave his weapons with his guard and not come through the hall carrying it like a raider." 

Aaleyah's stoic face cracks a smile, "Prince Hammun you must not speak of your brother in this way." she weakly chastises. 

Laughing, "He forces me to go hunting, he must receive these insults as tax." he jokes, happy to see Aaleyah laughing, 

Taking her fist, Aaleyah covers her mouth to cover her laughter. Yes, as brilliant as Saan is, he never seems to care about cleaning up after hunting. Never seems to be in a rush to be clean. When they were children she can recall their times in the garden. A warm autumn night she had called for him to meet her by the water fountain to talk about her brother's birthday. He was so excited to meet her he ran without his crown, and his long black hair undone. Aaleyah can still recall the feel of his hair between her fingers as she sat at the edge of the fountain pulling it back and tying it with a ribbon from her dress.

"Yes he has been like this for as long as I can remember." Hestia says pulling Aaleyah out of her reminiscing. Hestia clasps Aaleyah's hand, "You do not have to worry, he is always fast when it comes to those he loves."

Hammun nods, "It may be wise to already have the workers draw a bath for him." he says with a smile. 

Nodding, all heads turn to the door that opens. The king steps into the hallway and nods his head at Hestia. 

That is all the acknowledgement Hestia needs before she is rushing into the queen's chambers. Hammun makes to follow and is stopped by his father. 

"Hammun," his eye connect with his son, "after you see your mother come see me in the south wing." His eyes trail from the door to his left, and his son, "We will have much to discuss."

Hammun bows before calmly walking into the queen's chambers after Hestia. 

Inside Hestia rushes through the chamber to the Queen's bedside. Her feet trip over a rug, and it is Hammun's strong hand that gently catches her that prevents the young princess from falling. Rushing around the tea table Hestia falls to her knees at the queen's bed. Her hands reaching onto the soft blankets for the queen's hand. "Queen mother," her tight voice calls out, tears already swinging on the rims of her eyes. "Your health is nothing to fret, right?" shaking her head, "there is no need to worry?" she asks, desperately seeking comfort from the woman who has been a second mother to her from the moment she stepped foot in the Aidkjeen kingdom. Her small chin trembles and Hammun squeezes her shoulder in comfort. "Please be alright. I am unable to be anything but worry for you." Tears slowly escape her eyes, thin wet trails making a path on her tan cheeks. "We waited outside your door for what seemed to be an eternity" Squeezing the queen's hand tightly more tears fall, and her voice cracks, "While waiting all I could think of is what I would do if I lost you. And… and," her body shakes, "I came up with nothing." she sobs. Her head falls atop of the hand she holds and she releases all of her fear and stress. 

Hammun rubs his fiancee's back with one hand, and with the other reaches for the bedside table to pour a cup of water. "Mother please drink." he urges, placing the cup in his mother's hand, he gently moves Hestia away so his mother can sit up. 

The queen of Aidkjeen Kingdom is renowned for her beauty, and youthfulness. Hundreds of statues or paintings of her are hung throughout the kingdom. Her long brown hair tied and held up in her signature red clips. Red earrings hanging from her ears. Most images of the queen have her standing in front of scrolls, for the queen was known to care for education above all. The images and statue portray her holding a scroll citing the philosophies of mankind. The queen urging everyone to learn how to treat others, and to learn how to treat oneself. 

The queen from the statues and painting, is not however the one who lays in bed currently. This queen's hair is not clipped up. Instead the long brown strands lay in disarray around her shoulders. Strips of grey are no longer hidden and covered by jewels and clips. Her dark brown eyes, compassionate but very tired. The lashes blink over the brown orbs slowly as if they are a blink away from staying closed and sleeping. Her body is moving so slowly and weakly that Hammun has to place the cup of water back down to assist her. 

As Hammun aids his mother to sit up, Hestia wipes her tears away and helps to position the pillows behind the queen so she can rest on them. 

The pain in the queen's abdomen flares slightly, and Hammun notices immediately, his movements slowing to a snails' pace as he helps her sit up. When the blanket drops down Hammun is quick to notice the bandaging that is wrapped on the outside of the queen's robes. She must be wrapped twice, and to stop the clothes from rubbing against the bandage. her clothes were also bandaged down.

Once she is positioned carefully against the pillows Hammun moves the blanket back up to cover her, and hands the water back to her, his hands wrapping around his mother's to help her drink. 

Holding back her tears Hestia focuses on something else to cease the heavy pain in her heart. "Hammun, is it only water?" she asks inspecting the cup trying to see the liquid inside. "No herbs? Nothing more?" she asks, and when Hammun nods she rubs her chests as she begins to think. 

Tea is Hestia's specialty, she can talk to the physicians to ensure nothing will go against the medicine the queen is taking before brewing the tea. Then she can rush to the garden to whip up a brew that can help her mother sleep through the night. 

Moving her lips away from the cup she smiles kindly at her son, then the queen's eyes warm as she turns to her daughter in law. "Hestia, my sweet daughter," her hand beckons Hestia forward, "I knew you would come." patting the seat on the bed beside her, "Come sit my child."

Hestia rushes to the stairs and once again Hammun catches her, his hand falling to her waist to help her up the 3 steps to reach the bed. When both women are settled, he walks to retrieve a warmer blanket for them. Covering them he stands silently at the side, his calculating eyes concerned, and his quiet demeanor full of worry. 

"Hestia, erase this look of worry." the queen tells her, but her eyes travel to her son, and Hammun forces a small smile, but the concern does not leave his eyes. "Hestia, while I may be unable to come help you in the garden for a few nights, perhaps you can have Hammun take my place. He can grant you company in my stead." The queen's voice is gentle, but coaxing. Despite her injury she still hopes for the youngest royal couple to spend more time together and grow in their love. 

Hestia giggles and after checking that her movements do not startle the queen, snuggles by her side.

Hammun's sharp eyes note the tight clenching of his mother's hands. Her eyes that are red, and the paleness of his mother's skin. He takes a few steps away to the vanity to grab a hair brush and walk to the other side of the bed, and brushes his mother's scrambled hair into place. Tying it in a loose braid he lets it fall to cover the dark vein on the back side of her neck. His eyes turn murderous, and his hand clenches the hairbrush. He turns to Hestia and it is only then that he realizes he has not been listening to anything being said. 

"I will do that right now." Hestia pats the queen's hand lightly. "You need a full night of sleep to truly recover. We cannot expect you to join me in the garden if you are unable to sleep. You must be able to see the flowers we planted bloom." she tells the queen her voice giving off the impression that she is trying hard not to stagger. As if, with one pause, tears will fill her eyes once more. Hestia's eyes turn to Hammun with a teasing smile. "I also doubt your son has the skills of a gardener." rising from the bed her teasing smile morphs into an appreciating one when Hammun is there, offering his hand to aid her down. Taking his hand she steps down the stairs. 

Turning to face the queen, "I will run to the royal physician to speak to him first, then I will be back to check on you." rubbing her chest, "Then I will make the tea for you to sleep through the night." Hestia explains her intentions before walking towards the door. A small shake of her head to tell Hammun not to come with her.

Not wanting to leave his mother's side, Hammun can only sigh. "Have Musinm follow you. Ease some of my worry." he asks calmly. Recalling seeing her in the hallways with not a guard at her side earlier. 

With a soft smile, Hestia walks out the door. Hammun can hear her call for Musinm to follow and he releases a breath of relief. 

Then he turns to walk back to his mother's side. "Mother." he pauses in his step, unable to speak for a long time. "What has happened to you? What poison is this?" he asks, moving the braid that covers the darkened veins. "There is an antidote, correct?" his calm voice reaches its limits, and worry sneaks out from under the syllables. 

The soft, kind hearted woman who was speaking to Hestia with a smile on her face fades. Her mask cracks and the grimace in pain is shown. The nails embedded onto the back of her hand reveal how tightly she clenched to hold the pain away from Hestia's eyes. "Your father is doing all that he can. As of now the pain is paused." she inhales sharply, and her eyes close and Hammun's breath hitches along with his mother's. His hand stretches out to help, but not knowing how, they return to his side. "Hammun, this poison is not one we know of. We lack knowledge of its origins." her hand grapes onto Hammun's, "Your father believes it is the Stilits." her words stagger, "They have reasons to want me dead."

Hammun places his hand over his mother's.

"But, I do not know if they have rounded up enough strength to do this. What resources do they have? Who is funding them? Without this information it is not wise to move against them." she tells her son. 

 Hammun nods, he is aware more than anyone, the enemies within the kingdom. The politicians are corrupt, the officials are officially harming the common people. The treasury is full of jewels, but there are some every Blue moon that go missing, unaccounted for. 

"Hammun, your father believes they are coming." in a brittle voice, "he believes them to be rounding up again. But you must promise me," her weak hand tightens against Hammun's arm, "If anything happens to me, you must tell Aaleyah to follow her heart. She must trust her own instincts, she is wiser than she believes."

Hammun tilts his head in confusion, his hand caressing his mother's, coaxing her back to a calm state. Pondering his words carefully, "What is it you believe Aaleyah can do to help you?" his voice modulates, but before his mother can respond the door opens. 

Aaleyah stays rooted in her spot. Saan has not come yet and she is not sure if the king will allow her to see the queen first. She is also not certain if the king will punish her or not. Not that she is afraid of being punished, it's just the not knowing that prevents her from moving. If she was given permission to see the queen she is certain some of her fears would ease. The queen always knows what to do to aid her. Sometimes just the silence and peace that comes with being at the queen's side is enough.

Placing a hand on Aaleyah's shoulder the king leads her down the hall to walk in a private room. Opening the door he turns to one of his guards saying, "Make sure High Prince Saan goes to High Princess Aaleyah's chambers first." He watches the guard bow and walk to send the message before closing the door. 

Inside Aaleyah makes no motion to sit down and watches the king take a seat. His hand motions to the chair to the right of him. His silent command to sit.

Lowering herself into the chair she keeps her face expressionless. 

"Aaleyah," he calls her informally, his way of easing the tension. Now it is not the king talking to the high princess, but a father speaking to his daughter-in-law. "You are aware how the queen was injured." he says gravely. "Someone poisoned her, and it is the poison from the wound that caused her to collapse this morning." He looks at her in concern, "I know seeing that must have been hard. You may have felt helpless at that moment." 

Aaleyah says nothing, her bright honey colored eyes stay unmoving on the king. Watching every action, every inhale, every movement for what will happen next. 

"I ask that you take this into consideration when you speak to Saan about the stone." 

His comment confuses her. Whatever the king orders can never be taken into consideration. It must be done. There are no choices. Obey, and that is how you stay alive. 

"The idea of using the stone to stop the rebels before they become stronger is a decision I will need both of you to make. The rebels are organizing themselves, if word gets out that the queen has been injured the next course of actions may trickle into a war." he advises her. When Aaleyah does not respond the king sighs, "I will not force you to do anything you do not wish to Aaleyah."

Hearing those words Aaleyah focuses her gaze on the crown on the king's head, avoiding his earnest compassionate eyes. The only reason she is here is because of her family's stone. It is the symbol of her family, she wears it on her crown, it is tattooed onto her skin. There is no escape from it. She has always been forced. 'One Aljehni must remain standing.' 

"You are an Aljehni, your family has been advisors to the throne for generations, and your input is just as valuable as my sons." he tells her. His words are only met with silence, so he continues, "I understand your fears Aaleyah. I know you think I do not but I do. I know the weight of your name. And the toll the stone has been on you and your family." He makes to reach for her hand but before he can Aaleyah places her hand on her lap. "You are married to the future king. You Aaleyah Aljehni will be the future queen. The throne is a lonely place, if the person at your side can not keep your heart and mind safe then the throne will swallow you up and spit you out." Taking a breath, "It is time he knows all of who you are. He should know of the Aljehni history, and should know the significance of the stone on your crown, and its value to the kingdom." His eyes drift off as he thinks of something before adding, "I will not require you to tell me everything, but do tell Saan." 

After those words Aaleyah bows her head, an action to show her accepting the order she is being given. She is aware of her duty, and already has been isolating her emotions and locking them away with her memories to put the lives of her people first. Her thoughts and feelings do not matter, the stone does. Therefore any decision made involving it must only be made with logic, not emotions. "I understand." she says diplomatically. Then rising from her chair she kneels, "This humble servant apologises for entering your court."

Yes, entering the court, hearing those words the king recalls the facial expression of the advisors and scholars present and laughs heartily, his hand rubbing his forehead, "Oh Aaleyah all my Blue moons on the throne I have never seen anyone as brazen as you. To be filled with such bravery, and show poise and grace amongst all the gossip." Smiling widely, "I wonder if my reputation is too gentle." 

Her brows rise in shock, the crime she has committed is being met with laughter. Not the political laughter to be respectful, but true laughter. Laughter that she has not seen from the king since her family passed. King Hammaan does not have the freedom to feel joy and happiness the way High Prince Hamaan once did. There was a time where Aaleyah was sure a part of the king blamed her for the revolt, and as such when he saved her and brought her into the palace she was hoping to receive the king's forgiveness. Actions that were not easy considering her connection with the death of King Saamun. 

The life of politics is a terrifying thing, and if not for King Hammaan adopting different beliefs from his father the present that is the Aidkjeen kingdom would be so different. Nevertheless King Hammaan can easily use her actions today to get rid of her, him not doing so…No, he will just wait for a better time.

"Aaleyah," the king calls her, "you have grown so much." Gone is the energetic girl who refused to wear dresses and cried to play with her brothers instead. "Have you gone riding with Saan recently?" he asks remembering her love for the outdoors, horses, climbing, anything her siblings claimed to love she too adopted a passion for.

Not understanding the shift in conversation, where they not here to discuss important matters? "I went a moon ago."

"A moon is a long time, surely your horse will miss after four weeks." the king says watching the tension on Aaleyah's shoulders slowly recede. The revolt almost a Red moon ago stole her childlike innocence and matured her in a way that, while painful to see; is exactly the type of woman his son will need by his side. Aminah and Havil would have raised their daughter to be bright and beautiful, and maybe around 3 Red moons old Aaleyah would have been strong enough to bear the weight of her fate. But due to his father, Aaleyah understood her destiny at only a Red and 3 moons old. The world has been too cruel to her, maybe she thinks he has also been too cruel. Regardless, the mature woman is ready to be queen, ready to face all dangers that lie ahead. "High Princess Aaleyah," he addresses her family, ending the warm conversation. "I advise you not to make a habit of breaking laws again. This time I will give grace, in the future send my sons." he advises, knowing that many advisors in the throne room will attempt to spread gossip. "As for your punishment, how about visiting the School of Ahlin? There are students who would love to hear your teachings, your skills are highly discussed. If not we can discuss a soft punishment later."

Aaleyah can only bow, accepting his words. For 2 Blue moons the students of Ahlin have pleaded for her to come and teach music and dance. And for 2 Blue moons she has refused. "Yes your majesty." 

With a smile the king rises his way of closing the conversation. Extending his hand to her she rises from her spot, knelt on the floor and follows the king to the door. 

"Saan will arrive soon, speak to him before seeing the queen." He knocks on the door and the guards on the other side open it, and with a light tap on her head he leaves.

Exiting a few paces behind him Aaleyah spares one last glance down the hall to the queen's chambers. One last moment studying the king's retreating form. Then she turns on her heel in the opposite direction of her chambers. 

The walk to her chambers is not the same speed as before. She is no longer racing down the halls. The servants she passes feel a sense of calm at seeing their high princess in her normal state. Calm steps, head held high, a expression of ease on her face. Now that she seems alright everyone around her can breathe a sigh of relief. Whatever danger, or crisis there was is now successfully avoided, her smile says so.

Aaleyah acknowledges the bows of the workers she passes, her smoothing smile and facade evaporates the tension in the halls. Then reaching her chambers a servant opens the door for her and she walks in, the smile leaving her face when she is safe within her own walls.