CASTLE OF JEMIMA

The Unison

I locked eyes with Samuel, my brother, and flashed a bright smile to dispel the tension. But he wasn't buying it, his gaze narrowing suspiciously.

"Hi, brother," I said, my voice laced with artificial sweetness.

Samuel raised an eyebrow. "Looking for Sharon again, aren't you? You'll come crying to me later when he ignores you."

I pouted, playfully wrapping my arm around his. "Come on, Sam! I just wanted to show him my new look."

As we strolled away, Samuel's skepticism lingered.

Just then, Simeon emerged from his room, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Sam, have you found yourself a lady friend?" He feigned ignorance, his eyes sparkling with amusement.

I frowned, laughing. "Brother, really?"

Simeon enveloped me in a warm hug. "You look stunning, Jemima. Perfect." His gentle tone melted my heart.

Samuel snorted. "You should dress like this all the time and act ladylike, instead of chasing Sharon."

I shot him a sideways glare.

"You're the sweetest, Simeon," I whispered, smiling up at him.

Simeon's calm demeanor and genuine warmth made him the peacemaker of our family. His approval meant everything to me.

As I walked alongside my brothers, their identical appearances - shaved hair and radiant complexions - belied their vastly different personalities. Samuel's quick temper and disapproval of my knightly pursuits contrasted sharply with Simeon's gentle nature.

"Isn't Sharon ready yet?" Simeon asked, his gaze meeting mine.

I smiled wryly, raking my fingers through my hair. "You know how long he takes to primp. Let's leave him behind."

As we strolled ahead, arm in arm, my mind threatened to drift to Elena, nestled in Sharon's arms. I pushed the thought away, focusing on the warmth of my brothers' presence.

"I need to take a quick look around the Kingdom," Samuel said, his expression serious. " You two head to the hall; guests are here."

With a gentle kiss on my cheek and a reassuring pat on Simeon's shoulder, Samuel departed.

"I admire his responsibility," I said, chuckling as we continued walking.

Simeon grinned. "Sometimes I wonder if I could fill his shoes for a day."

We shared a laugh.

My smile faltered, my concerns resurfacing. "I still think this union isn't right."

Simeon's expression turned understanding. "The ancient feud was mysterious, but power has shifted. Let's embrace new beginnings. For me, exploring the other kingdoms will be an adventure."

I smiled, remembering my brother's love for adventures. He had spent years devouring books on the five kingdoms, regaling me with tales of their wonders.

As we entered the palace halls, I was struck by the grandeur. The castle workers had outdone themselves; intricate tapestries, shimmering candelabras, and vibrant flowers transformed the space into a majestic spectacle.

The royal families of the five kingdoms were already seated around our big palace dinning, resplendent in their finest attire.

King Liam of the Silver Kingdom sat alongside his twins, Lady Lorena and Lord Lorenzo, their contrasting features a testament to their unique bond.

King and Queen Ethan of the Rose Kingdom were accompanied by their three sons: Lord Theodore, Tobias, and Thomas, each bearing the family's signature strong jawline.

King and Queen Richard of the Crystal Kingdom sat with their two daughters, Lady Arabella and Isabella, and son, Lord Nuel, their elegant garb reflecting their kingdom's renowned crystal craftsmanship.

The Bronze Kingdom's King and Queen Jace radiated excitement, flanked by their son, Lord James, and daughter, Lady Joy, their vibrant smiles infectious.

As we entered, my parents, the king and queen, sat alongside the other royal families. The room shimmered with grandeur, each kingdom's attire reflecting their unique heritage.

Just as we were about to bow, Sharon arrived, beaming with his trademark charm. Samuel too, walked in. We are all bowed;

"Princess Jemima," King Liam said, his smile warm.

All eyes turned to me, and I felt a surge of discomfort under the princes' gazes. I forced a smile, trying to shake off the unease.

"Hope you're having a pleasant evening, my lord?" I bowed slightly.

"Indeed, Princess," King Liam replied, his eyes crinkling.

Queen Jace's voice filled the room. "Oh, how lovely! You resemble your mother."

The table erupted in warm smiles as we joined the gathering. Sharon's effortless humor soon had everyone laughing.

As the jokester among my brothers, Sharon could coax a smile from even the most reluctant face. But tonight, I wasn’t having it.

Every laugh, every conversation, seemed to rub me the wrong way. I couldn't explain why.

Prince Lorenzo's voice cut through the chatter, his tone genuinely concerned. "Lady Jemima, is everything alright?"

Now, everyone stared at me.

"No...I'm fine," I stammered, feeling the weight of the room's gaze.

Sharon swiftly intervened, saving me from further embarrassment. "She's just a bit overwhelmed, being around so many people."

Prince Lorenzo's persistence surprised me. "We've heard of your exceptional sword skills, Lady Jemima. How proficient are you?"

His question reignited my irritation. I forced a smile, trying to deflect. "You can assess my skills when we cross swords."

The princesses exchanged disapproving glances, while Samuel's narrowed eyes warned me to back off.

Fortunately, our parents were engrossed in their own conversations, oblivious to the tension.

Lord Theodore's praise was laced with condescension. "How courageous of you, Lady Jemima! But shouldn't princesses focus on more...feminine pursuits? Reading, gossiping with friends?"

I smiled politely, deflecting his subtle jab. "Everyone's path is unique, my lord. Let's not focus on me. When do you all plan to take the plunge into matrimony?"

The conversation shifted.

The princesses' gazes lingered on my brothers, their eyes sparkling with interest.

My brothers' chiseled features and athletic physiques made them the epitome of royal charm. Samuel, in particular, seemed to be the object of Lady Isabella's affection.

"I'd love to marry within months," Lady Isabella cooed, her gaze locked on Samuel, who feigned interest in his food.

Lady Arabella's announcement sparked a chorus of congratulations. "I'm betrothed, and I'd be honored if you all could attend my wedding."

“Definitely” we chimes in unison.

Prince James turned to Sharon, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Lord Sharon, are you taken?"

My gaze locked onto Sharon, anticipation building within me. Would he deny it?

Sharon's response was swift and playful. "No, would you like me to marry your sister?" He flashed Lady Joy a charming smile.

The table erupted into laughter.

I frowned.

Just then, I spotted my best friend, Elena, across the room. Her presence was a welcome distraction.

I swiftly rose from my seat.

"I'll return in five," I announced, bowing slightly before slipping away without waiting for a response.

Outside the door, I found Ruth, her face alight with a warm smile.

"You look stunning, Jemima," she said, her eyes sparkling.

"Good to see you without a sword for once," she teased.

I pouted, tugging at my gown. "I hate this dress and being in there."

Ruth chuckled. "You were born for royalty, even if you'd rather wield a sword."

"I wish you were with me," I confided.

Ruth's grin turned mischievous. "I'm working on a new sword design. Come see it after this union."

My eyes widened. "Really? That's amazing!"

Ruth nodded. "And don't worry, I'll make sure it's perfect for you." Her expression turned anxious. "Is Samuel...flirting with those princesses?"

I rolled my eyes. "Sam's just playing his part. He thinks he'll never marry."

Ruth sighed wistfully. "My dream man."

With a hasty "Bye," she darted off, leaving me to ponder our conversation.

I stood there, lost in thought, wondering how to return to the festivities. But then, a shadowy figure caught my attention. He seemed armed, and my instincts kicked in.

Lifting my gown for ease, I followed him, curiosity getting the better of me. How did he slip past the knights on guard?

As he ventured deeper into the castle, I quickened my pace, my senses on high alert.

I drew the sword hidden beneath my dress, recalling Ruth's words: "Good to see you without a sword for the first time." A wry smile spread across my face.

With my sword extended, I confronted the stranger. "Who are you?!" I demanded.

He turned, and our eyes met. My heart raced faster than usual.

This man was beautiful!