Alexander James Francis Maximillion Nightingale

Alexander blinked. He frowned and found himself suddenly narrowing his eyes.

"I did no such thing, milady. I was simply continuing to be honest with you. In my realm, the shadows often reveal themselves, and magic can work in different ways, milady. We also CHOOSE what to see and what not to see. By the way... I hate it when I am accused of an action which I did not commit. I am not asking you to not be yourself, milady, but what I AM asking is to simply see it from my eyes, as I am sure you would ask the same of me. Am I correct in that?"

He found himself sighing again.

"I simply meant if they do not bother to know my full name, it can mean they do not care. If they do not care then they can be hard to trust, very hard indeed. The two feelings are not unrelated in this case, milady."

He nodded once. He took a breath before he spoke again, a quiet breath that is.

"I was simply asking you to be patient. I did not accuse you of severe impatience, milady. Please forgive me if that sounded as if I were."

Alexander heard her request. He felt odd at that moment. It was a strange, new feeling. What was it? He had not truly felt it before that moment and could not place his finger on it. Just what could this feeling be? It was certainly a negative feeling. Was he.... hurt? or perhaps he was.......sad? No. It seemed to be something else entirely. Anyway, the king managed a single, slow nod. When he spoke again, he spoke rather quietly.

"Very well then.........milady."

With that, he left her alone at that spot. Alexander was averting his gaze from her once more, and he did his best not to look at her while she desired to be alone. Women rushed up to him as he approached, but he waved them all away, causing sad looks and such all around. He glanced around at them all for a moment, and then cleared his throat before he addressed them all.

"Excuse me, esteemed guests. But I must take my leave at the moment. There is something I must do. Please continue to enjoy yourselves in my absence. I shall return soon."

With a single nod, he turned and made to leave the ballroom. The shadow that was his strained against him trying to walk off. It continued to stay connected to that of the princess. It was as if it were almost alive, and it did not wish to leave. Alexander would walk out the ballroom doors, trying his best not to show whatever it was that he was feeling, if he could ever figure out what it was. It was at this time that that maid followed after him. She had a rather angry look on her face, and she looked as if she were about to try and do something. No one noticed her though.

The maid was swift. She was quiet. She managed to stay that way as she followed after the king. Alexander would have normally noticed, but he was rather mentally distracted at the moment, for obvious reasons. The maid would see this as a perfect opportunity. She was going to have her revenge, or so she thought. She was going to make him pay for rejecting her like that, for making her miserable, or so she continued to think. This was a determined servant, or former servant if Alexander had noticed her or the look on her face or even the fact that she was following him like that.

---

Rosalind felt helpless, and starting to feel a little unnerved with the way the conversation was going. Clearly, both butting heads on the matter on what they believed. Not liking, when he rose his voice at her, with certain words. Making her frown and look uncomfortable. As he seemed to expect, that she would ask him to see things from her point of view, she sighed. "I wouldn't, your majesty. I simply let others believe and see what they wish. I accept a person's point of view, I don't try and change it, by trying to make them see things from a different perspective. I understand that your realm, as you put it...is different. But I do not believe in such things." Rosalind said honestly. It was a difference between them. Whilst he wished for her to see things from his 'view', Rosalind just accepted that he had different ideals and beliefs, leaving it at that and not asking anything more of him. But he seemed to be the opposite. Especially, as he wished for her to open her eyes up to the shadow magic in his realm and to see it. But the young woman, did not have eyes for such magic. Nor a believer of such, to see it. "I didn't mean for my words, to come off as accusing you, of anything. But we simply have two different views about things, your highness. But my views and beliefs will not change, just like I do not wish to change yours." Hopefully, he could respect her different view, and try not to make her think the same way he did. For no two people, really thought alike.

As Alexander believed two certain feelings to be related, it begged the question of why. But she didn't ask. The Princess had a vastly different opinion of what made somewhat untrustworthy, than he did. Clearly, they would not agree about that matter either.

"I never been impatient My Lord. But somehow you think that I am not a patient person." Rosalind explained herself, when he asked her to be patient yet again. Somehow her words might have come across, a different way than intended. But she never an impatient person; not before today, not right now. Hearing his apology, Rosalind sighed softly. "Seems like both our words, have come across different ways tonight, my lord."

She noticed that he seemed almost, unpleased with her request of needing fresh air. But Rosalind needed some time alone, what was insulting about that? Bowing her head to him, before she found her way to one of the balconies. Closing her eyes slightly, as she felt the cool evening air brush against her face. Sighing to herself, as she looked down from the balcony to see the kingdom below. Not seeing a sight of life outside; as everyone was inside of the ballroom for tonight.

Hearing Alexander from the balcony, she felt a weird tug as he left the ballroom area himself. Her shadow resisting, as it wanted to stay attached to his; despite the distance between them. It wasn't exactly how she expected the evening to go; getting into a disagreement with the host. But it had happened, regardless of whether she wanted it or not. Sighing to herself, Rosalind began to question if it had even been wise to listen to her parents and come here in the first place. Little did she know, that Alexander was in danger; being followed by an old servant that was determined to make his life miserable. If it hadn't been him, that the servant had followed...Rosalind herself probably could have been a victim herself; even if she didn't know the servant in question. But just because she had simply caught the eye of the King.

After a few long moments, Rosalind returned back inside from the balcony. Feeling refreshed from the cool air on the balcony. Her eyes scanning the room for a few moments; sighing to herself. She went over to one of the tables, getting herself a refreshment. Hoping that a drink, might help ease some of the nerves that were running through her right now.

Alexander had been gone for only a short time now, but others, guests mainly, were growing worried. What had happened? Was he truly busy? What could be going on. They had no idea, and they had no answers to any such questions. Anyway, the king had not responded to the princess before he left, mainly due to the fact that he simply had not heard her, which was accidental, as he walked off. Now, he was alone, and no one had followed after him, except for that maid, that servant. The king had yet to turn around and see her. He would walk down that corridor for a time longer before he stopped near a drawing room. He would go inside and attempt to close the door behind him. In truth, he faked being busy so that he would be alone. He found himself with a great need to be alone, to be isolated, even more so than before, and he was not sure exactly why. He had enjoyed the company of that princess for one reason or another, but when he heard her request.... something in him changed, and he was confused by it.

The king would sigh fairly often as he had a seat in a chair that was in the room. He reached over and lit a candle that was on a nearby table. His eyes would end up on the floor for a time, and soon he would be lost within his own thoughts, the room silent as no words were spoken. As he did so, the maid peaked her head inside, being very careful. She narrowed her eyes as she looked at him. He was very distracted, which she was glad for. She would stay to the shadows as she entered the room, and she would be as quiet as she could be as she made to approach him. She would be right behind him, right behind the chair he was seated in. He did not raise his head, not at that moment anyway. The maid took a deep, careful breath, and she pulled out a small bottle from her apron bottle. She noticed that he had a glass of water nearby.

The maid would sprinkle the powder into the water without the kings' knowledge. It would cause his magic to become highly unstable. He was certain to suffer from that, she thought. Anyway, she watched as the powder faded into the water and it could no longer be seen. Then, she made to quickly leave before the king finally raised his head and saw her. She was long gone by the time the king finally did so and gave a loud sigh. He reached for the water, clearly unaware of what had happened, and sipped from it. He froze when he noticed an odd taste when he took that sip. Suddenly, the shadows all around him were going crazy, growing more and more out of control. Alexanders' eyes went wide and he jumped from his chair, which was now suddenly fading from existence. He gasped upon seeing that.

"What in the great shadows is happening here?!"

The ground suddenly shook at that moment. He fell to the ground and suddenly found it difficult to get back up. There would be cries from guests in the ballroom when the ground also began to shake underneath their own feet. Fear could be seen and felt. What was going on?! What was happening?! Where was the king??

---

Taking a sip of her drink, Rosalind's eyes travelled all over the ballroom. A few moments had passed, but there was no sign of Alexander's return. Assuming, that he had some Kingly duties to attend to, despite the ball. Rosalind tried not to let it bother her; but something about the situation was starting to feel, almost eerie like. Something wasn't right. When longer than 10 minutes passed, she too began to wonder what was keeping him from his own ball. Had he truly been that hurt, when she needed some time alone? As far as she knew, that was not a crime when one was overwhelmed with emotion. Rosalind thought it had been for the best; as not to get into a more heated discussion with Alexander. To save them both, anger and annoyances for not agreeing with each other.

Feeling the ground starting to shake; her glass slipped from her grip with a gasp. The glass breaking at her feet. Remnants of her wine spilling over the floor, splashing against the bottom of her dress and across her shoes. Everything had been calm and in peace, mere few moments ago. Now it was breaking into utter chaos. The air in the room felt colder, causing shivers to travel down her spine. Everyone stumbling around the room, trying to find something to hold onto. In the chaos, her shadow was trying to search for Alexander. To see if he was alright.

No one noticed her slip out of the ballroom with the chaos. Needing to hold onto the wall for support anytime the floor beneath her would shake, as if from an earth-quake. "Alexander! Alexander?" Rosalind called out, as she searched for him. Hoping that he might hear her throughout the chaos, and make himself known. Rosalind probably should have been concerned about herself and her own safety. Yet she seemed to be caring more about the Kings, than herself in that moment. Almost loosing her balance more than once, as she rushed through the castle corridors. Not sure where she was going, but she hoped that her search would lead her somewhere near...or right to the King himself.

One door creaked open; as the trembling ground forced it open. Rosalind stopped in her tracks hearing the door opening. There was just enough light in the corridor for her to see a figure laying on the floor. Rushing over, she kneeled down beside him. "What happened?" Rosalind's voice sounding panicked. Not sure if it was mainly from all the chaos, or seeing the King on the floor in such a state. The shadows still swirling and dancing all over the room in chaos. Making the room more darker than it had been before when the shadows were stable. Rosalind knew that the King needed help. "Guards! Somebody help the King." She yelled out. But her voice was cut off, when one of the shadows almost angrily swam down towards Rosalind. Knocking her away from Alexander. Knocking the Princess unconscious; almost as if the shadows were angry with Rosalind for trying to get help for Alexander.

A few guards near by had heard the plea for help; rushing into the drawing room to see their King and the Princess both on the floor. One of the guards picked up the knocked out Princess, whilst the others worked on moving the King; taking the pair somewhere safe. Somewhere they could rest and recover from any injuries either of them might have had sustained in the chaos.

Alexander blinked. He froze, where he was, for a time. He was just barely able to look, or rather glance, behind him in the direction of the female voice upon hearing it. Footsteps were heard before the voice was. The king had not expected anyone to come looking for him other than a servant, let alone know where he was, up until just then. His eyes landed on....Princess Rosalind! His eyes grew wide and he attempted to get up on his own, despite everything that was happening, with himself and with his castle.

"M....Milady! You must get out of here! You....you need to be somewhere safe!"

He ended up collapsing onto the floor again. It would be a struggle to return to a sitting position, let alone stand up. For some reason, not only was his magic growing out of control and bringing more, much more vengeful, shadows to life, ones that were more evil than the ones who guided them, but his strength seemed to be leaving him...and rather quickly. What was happening?! The gasps and cries of the guests could be heard, echoing throughout the castle. Things seemed to be getting worse and worse, the king managed to think. That was when he heard her call for guards. Alexander managed to shake his head.

"D....do not! Run! Hurry, milady!"

He tried to plead with her. But his pleas seemed to be unheard at the moment. His eyes went wide and a gasp of his own could be heard when the princess was knocked unconscious. It took quite a bit of willpower not to scream and create more chaos, to make things even worse than they already were.

"Princess!"

He called out her title rather than the other this time, for some reason. However, he did not care at the moment. Before he knew it, and before he could try to do anything, though, guards had taken the two of them out of the room. They were carried out of there rather quickly. The king tried to tell them to put him down, but they would not listen to him. He and the princess would be outside of the castle soon enough, and tents had been set up for him and the guests. Servants were fleeing as well. However, everything within the castle seemed to....stop....when the king was no longer within its' walls. The chaos was now around them outside!

The maid from earlier was watching, hiding amongst the other servants. She smirked. She could afford to do so since not a single soul was looking in her direction. The king was suffering, just as she had intended. The chaos causing the girl who got in the way to suffer as well was just an unexpected surprise, in addition to what she had intended. She was glad to see it.... very glad indeed. The maid just barely managed not to chuckle, thinking how the king deserved all this for what he had done. This woman was truly, well, evil, or so one would say or think if they knew her, or saw what she had done and such. Her revenge plan was all coming together, or so it would seem to that servant.

Alexander refused to stay on the cot he had been placed on. He kept trying to get to the princess who was on a nearby cot. His shadow was trying to get back to hers. Anyway, Alexander would not stay put and he started to shout at servants who tried to keep him from moving, sounding upset for the first time in a long time.

"Do not touch me! Let me go! I must make sure she is unharmed!!"

Eyes widened upon seeing and hearing that from the king himself.

---

The last thing Rosalind had remembered, before falling unconscious was Alexander pleading with her to leave the drawing room. But she couldn't leave him in such a state. Before she could have even thought of leaving him be, or left the drawing room; it was already too late. As she laid on the ground; darkness seemed to have swallowed her. Her body almost totally limp as one of the guards had carried her outside. Her head hanging, as the guard carried her. Unable to keep her head against his chest in a comfortable way. Whilst the Princess was breathing, there was a small injury to the back of her head from where the shadows had knocked her away from Alexander and against the coldness of the floor. Despite being brought to safety, no one was safe just yet. It seemed like the chaos followed them outside. Her arm hanging over the side of the cot, that she was placed upon once outside. Her chest slowly rising and falling, with slow breaths.

In the chaos, Rosalind's shadow still seemed to be alive. Her shadow not only searching for the King's...but also for the one responsible off this chaos.

"But your highness, you must rest. The medics are checking that she is unharmed." One of the servants tried to plead with the King. Concerned that the King himself was hurt and unstable, after what had happened inside of the castle walls. Surprised just as everyone else, that the King seemed to be so highly concerned for the Princess. They had never known him to care for anyone, to such a degree. Hence their shock.

Meanwhile, the castles' medics were standing over the Princess. Checking the wound on the back of her head. There had appeared to be small bleeding, from the wound. So they had cleaned the wound, making sure it wouldn't get infected. Before wrapping a bandage around. The Princess was truly in a vulnerable state herself. Probably much to the evil servant's happiness; that Rosalind was a victim of the chaos she had brought upon everyone, by harming Alexander. Rosalind's shadow still moving by it's own will almost, almost like her shadow had sensed the dangerous former servant lurking amongst the crowd; her shadow slowly began to circle around the servant in question. Almost like Rosalind's shadow was trying to draw attention to the woman that was responsible for all of this. Pointing out the 'enemy' that was hiding within plain sight.

Unware of how much time had passed, Rosalind was slowly coming around after what felt like hours. Waking up with a groan. Her head spinning from the throbbing pain. Almost falling out of the cot in panic, when she found herself outside. But a servant managed to steady the cot, preventing the Princess from falling right out. "Is Alexander alright? He...he was hurt." More worried about the King and his state, than herself. For she hated to see someone in such a state, like she had found Alexander. Fearing, that someone was out to get him, and wanted to hurt him. Rubbing her temple, that seemed to be throbbing in pain. A strange warm light seemed to penetrate from the tip of her fingers. It was a soft light, in it's warmth. But bright enough to resemble star light. The light seemed to wash over the nearest shadows; calming them and the chaos around.

Alexander tried to wave off the servants' pleas. He was not in the mood for that. That much was clear, for sure. He kept trying to get off the cot. The king was not going to stay put, not even for a moment. This was one male who did not seem to care about whatever condition he, himself, was in, as his mind was focused on another, and that being was the one on the cot nearby.

"Milady!"

He called out to her again. The king kept trying to get to her. He wanted her to hear him, to open her eyes. Alexander did not recall himself ever being so frantic and such before. But now? Now he was. Things were certainly different now. Things were truly changing somehow. Anyway, he saw the medics that were near the princess. Alexander kept trying to get to her, to get around the medics and approach her. The king was not going to give up on doing so without a fight. That much was becoming more and more clear as the moments passed. The king was seemed to be a bit...stubborn, but also, he seemed to have a good reason for being that way.

The maid who had caused all the problems, the chaos, in the first place, was watching from the crowds. Her eyes remained narrowed, and she continued to smirk. Somehow, she still remained unnoticed, hiding in plain sight. She almost did not notice nor see the shadow that seemed to be searching for her. She did not really care either way at the moment. Her plans had already been put into place. Everything was going according to plan. She was happy to see that. Anyway, the king continued to be quite frantic.

"Let me go! Do not touch me! I must get to her!"

He tried to push away servants and guards while his eyes remained on her. He blinked when he saw she was finally awake, and it appeared like he was finally stopping, freezing almost. His voice would suddenly turn quiet as he spoke again.

"M....milady?"

He tried to reach for her at that moment. But it would be made difficult for obvious reasons. The shadows around them were still in a bit of chaos, despite what the princess did, but he did not seem to care at that small moment. His mind was clearly distracted during that time. His eyes never left her, not even for a moment. It would seem he had incentive to make his announcement much sooner than he had intended to. He had hoped to announce his choice at the end of the ball, but it seemed, now, like that was not going to happen. However, he would not do so right at that moment. She needed to recover after all, and things needed to settle down first. Not to mention, they needed to stop the chaos that was happening and find whoever was responsible, because it was obvious the king would not suddenly lose control like that, nor would such chaos happen on its' own.

The maid would look down. She blinked. She almost saw the shadow. The servant, or former servant if she was to be caught, would back away a bit. She would make to blend in within the crowd more. She was attempting to remain unnoticed, while still watching what was going on. She was not going to give up on her plans.

The king continued to reach towards the princess.

"I....I'm sorry......"

---

The servants tried to plea with their King to rest, and take it easy. In their eyes, it was unwise for him to be about his feet. Not with him in such an unstable condition. He needed to rest, to regain his strength and control. But it was no use. Their King was ever so stubborn. And strangely even more so, over a young woman he barely seemed to know. No one had seen such reactions from him, ever before. They couldn't help but speculate what was going on with their ruler, how the young Princess was so special to make their King react in this way. It probably wasn't wise for the King to get in the way of the medics work either; as they needed space to move about and take care of the injured Princess. Alexander wasn't making it easy. Not for anyone, in these circumstances.

No one had noticed the guilty culprit just yet. But it was only a matter of time; before she would be found out. For certain shadows would expose her as the traitor that she was. For now, the guests were too scared of the chaos to notice her cowering away. And the servants more concerned about their ruler, their King's well being than whom was hiding amongst them.

"Sire, you must calm. You cannot help her, in this state." Multiple servants tried to plead with the King. Attempting to calm him down, so the Medics could do their job. Alexander being frantic, wouldn't be of help and use to anybody. Especially the Princess. "Your majesty, please...you must let the medics do their job." One of the guards pleaded with the King. Attempting to calm him down. But it was no use. Never have they dealt with a King so stubborn. If he did not calm himself down; he could injure himself in his panic. A risk, the servants and guards did not wish to take.

Feeling a little bit dazed, Rosalind did not see the strange light emanating from her fingertips. But the Young Princess did hold a potent power inside of her. In time, she would come to learn what she was truly capable off. As things slightly calmed down, she heard a familiar voice among the chaos. "Your majesty." Rosalind used his title, rather than his name. Either way relieved to see him. With some aid, she sat up properly in the cot. Looking a bit confused. Why did he feel the need to apologise? He didn't do anything wrong. "It is not your fault." Assuring him, that he was in the clear. Rosalind smiled weakly, despite the fact that her head was pounding still. Feeling a little dazed from everything. "It is a relief, to see you on your feet, my Lord." Glad to see that he was alright. Appearing to be in a slightly better state than he had been inside of the castle. But this wasn't over, not yet. They had yet to figure out, what was going on.

Almost sensing the former servants sharp eyes skills, Rosalind's shadow moved in a different way; to avoid being seen by the servant. Disappearing in the quietening chaos of the shadows around everyone. Her shadow finding a different way to the guilty former servant, without being seen. A few other Shadows seemed to catch onto the former servants guilt; as if they all could sense emotions. Swopping behind her. A bigger shadow pushed the guilty servant into view of everyone. Exposing the traitor to the leader of the realm and everyone else that was present outside.

Catching onto the slight chaos, Rosalind looked towards where the shadow had pushed the former servant into view. "Who is that?" She questioned. She hadn't seen that particular servant in the castle upon her arrival earlier that evening. Nor did she look like a guest.

Rosalind's shadow seemed to wrap around the former servants feet, stopping the traitor from escaping. Whilst the other shadows too highlighting her as the traitor and guilty perpetrator behind this chaos.

"It seems like the shadows had found the guilty culprit. My Lord." One of the guards spoke. Not looking happy at seeing the former servant back; for she should have been long gone from within the castle's walls. Knowing too, that their King wouldn't have lost control by himself.

Alexander continued to try and get to her for a while longer. The servants continued to try and stop him. He heard their pleas but he did not head them, at least not right away. His stubbornness seemed to continue on. He was not giving up, not even for a moment, well... so far anyway. Servants would continue to watch with wide eyes. They still did not see the guilty party right away, as their focus was on the king at the moment. This king was not stopping, at least not right away.

"Princess....."

Surprisingly, he did not shout that time. Although.... he did continue to try and reach for him, even as the others did their best to hold him back and try to get him to rest, to stay on the cot. As they did so, the shadows had since revealed the guilty party, the ones not yet consumed by the chaos that is. The maid took more steps back. She tried to resume blending into the crowd long enough to get away, if she even had to run in the first place that is, or to flee that is. Anyway, the king kept his eyes on Rosalind. They never glanced away, not even for a moment.

"Let me go...That is an order."

He said it rather calmly for some reason. However, it was one order that would not be headed, and he would have a serious, a very serious, talk with the guards servants and so one at a soon, but later time. That was when he heard the princess speak. He blinked. He was silent for a brief moment. The king made one last attempt to reach for her before he spoke.

"Milady....."

Suddenly, his voice was barely above a whisper. His heart was sinking for some reason, seeing her like that. What was going on with him? He barely knew her. Of course, that did not matter when it calm to matches that were made in his culture, at least not much, but one thing at a time. Anyway, that was when he heard another voice. The king blinked... again, and he looked towards who had spoken. It was one of the guards who had spoken. Apparently, according to them, the shadows had had found the culprit. What? The culprit? Someone had had caused all of this themselves?! Who?! Why?! Who was the traitor?!! Many such angry questions would arise. His eyes scanned around, looking for the shadows in question. He would see them soon enough.

"............................."

The state of the princess, the chaos, what had been done to him.... all of it was rushing around as various images inside his mind at the moment. His eyes would narrow. They seemed to glow almost, but not in the way the vampires of old legends' would. This was.... different, very different indeed. He tried to stand up. He tried to walk to where the shadows were. The king had seen the maid and he was trying to get to them, but servants and guards suddenly tried to keep him from doing so. They wanted him to remain on the cot. They wanted him to rest. He thought he heard a guard say they would take care of it, but he shook his head. He wanted to take care of this matter himself, and for obvious reasons. But, they insisted on doing so for him. He sighed and frowned, eyes still narrowed. The king kept shaking his head, but no one seemed to be listening to him still.

"They will get away!"

True to his prediction, the one in question made to run off. She seemed to fade into the shadows behind the crowds, truly blending in. She was making her escape, or so it would seem. She was doing her best to get away. That was when the king gave an angry roar. He glared at the guards and servants now, another first.

"You see that?! What did I say to all of you?!"

Guards were running off after her upon him shouting like that.

---

As Alexander kept trying to reach for her, Rosalind wasn't sure that it was such a wise idea for him to keep straining himself in such ways. Even if she was glad to see, that he was okay despite the chaos that was going on around them. "Please rest, your majesty. Rosalind spoke softly, as he used her title. Just like his servants and guards, she cared for his well-being. If he was still in a vulnerable and unstable state like he had been inside of the castle walls; than he needed all the rest that he could get. Hoping that her words would encourage him to do so. Giving him a soft smile, to assure him that she was right there. "I must rest myself, after the whole ordeal. It would be unwise, to strain one self after what had happened." Seeing the sense, in the situation. They were safe out here, hopefully. Wanting him to recover, she hoped he would take her advice.

"My Lord." She spoke in a soothing voice. Her hand briefly reached for his, offering him some comfort with a gentle hand squeeze. Her hand falling from his, as she reached up to rub her own temple. Feeling a slight throbbing pain from getting knocked away earlier. The pain settling in a form of a throbbing head-ache. An ache, she'd have to deal with for now.

Leaning back against the cot, Rosalind tried to rest; hoping that the dull ache would subside sooner rather than later. But after noticing the culprit being shown by the shadows; the former servant stood out like a sore thumb amongst everyone. It seemed like the guards had picked up on it too. Pointing her out to Alexander. She could see the clogs ticking, as he tried to see whom was responsible for all of this. Responsible for making him unstable and causing sheer amount of chaos. Wondering why the mystery woman had wanted to hurt him. But it was bits of past; she was not aware off. To Rosalind, someone was simply acting out of cruelty.

Seeing the former servant try to flee, Rosalind flinched at the uncomfortable angry roar that escaped Alexander. Not sure that it was ultimately deserved; as it was safer for the guards to help and handle this. Than for him to, when he was in such a state. "They are just doing their job. Let them help." Rosalind sighed, trying to reason with the King. Not sure if her words would be listened to...or of much help. But she tried. It was the least she could do.

As the guards pursued the former servant, so did the shadows. Attempting her from fleeing too far. They could not afford to loose the culprit, that caused this unrest in the Kingdom. Rosalind's own shadow seemed to be hot at the culprits feet. Swooping under the former servant, causing the former servant to trip in her escape. Giving the guards enough time to catch her. Guards took advantage of the shadows helping them; catching the servant as she fell to the ground. Yanking her up back to her feet harshly. "Gotcha...can't run now!" The guards restrained her. Pulling her back towards their King; so she could face her punishment. Once they reached Alexander, one of the guards forced the former servant onto her knees harshly. Keeping her from running away once more. "We have caught her, my Lord." The guards informed Alexander. Wondering what their King would do with her now; for she should have been gone out of the Kingdom a long time ago, when Alexander got rid of her position in the castle. But somehow, she went unnoticed for a time, not truly leaving the Kingdom. But the former servant would not be so lucky this time, as to get away from punishment.

"Let go off me!" The woman hissed, struggling in their grip. The former servant wanting to get free of the guards hold, but it was no use. They were stronger than her.

Alexander blinked. He paused for a time. He looked right at Princess Rosalind and was silent for a moment. He just simply...stared, well, for a moment or two at least. Then, he finally spoke.

"Princess....."

His voice was barely above a whisper as he said that. Suddenly, the king found himself on the cot once more. The ones tending to him had taken advantage of his suddenly distracted state and got him back down onto that cot without a fight. It had all happened so fast, on top of everything else. He made one attempt to get back up, but somehow he had been restrained. Guards who had stayed behind, by choice, had helped those servants, and they, themselves, would get an earful later for not doing their proper jobs. Anyway, the king sighed and would finally stop struggling after a time. He frowned though, eyes narrowed and such as he looked at them all. Well....except for the princess. He found himself unable to look at her like that, at all.

"..........................."

The king was not sure what to say at that point. It seemed like she truly cared about him now, which would be a first for him, obviously. For a time, he had actually been distracted from the matter at hand, concerning the maid. He barely noticed the shadows or anything of the like at all at that moment. He blinked when he felt her hand in his. He glanced at their hands, silent for a time. This time she had grabbed his, rather than the other way around, which he actually felt was quite nice. He actually very nearly smiled, not faintly but bigger than that, for a moment. Soon enough, he would be snapped out of it. It seemed to happen quite quickly, and for the first time he would seemingly be caught of guard.

Loud voices could be heard. The king made another attempt, but to at least be in a seated position, as he tried to look in the direction in which the voices had come from. It sounded like those guards. He frowned and started to narrow his eyes again. A female voice had soon followed as he did that. Soon enough, a person who appeared to be a maid was dragged towards the tent, and at least within his eyesight, since he was not being allowed to get up even though he was the king and ruled that land. The guards had soon told him she had been caught and he simply nodded at first, his eyes still narrowed.

"This one....still worked for the castle....."

Alexander had permitted her to still work at the castle, but he assigned her to tasks and areas where they were to NEVER encounter each other, like the farthest corners of the dungeons to clean, or the newly built prison towers to be maintained and cleaned and such. He had not seen her in person in many a moon(many years.) This was after she had approached him during a 'celebration of his birth' and had asked to be considered for courtship, and he had rejected her. She was not to be his, and he had explained to her that much, but she had appeared quite upset and he knew he had to create some distance if she was to maintain employment. He had given her a second chance, another first, and for any king. This was now something he was coming to regret doing, and quickly. He took a deep breath and finally spoke.

"Place her in one of the many prison towers she helped to maintain until we can settle this situation. Then...if she confesses and we get the answers we seek, she will be let go....into exile."

He put emphasis on that last part. Anyway, he soon glanced back at Rosalind.

"I am sorry....for all of this....milady."

He was....sincere! Gasps could be heard from those who were there, those who were listening. Who was this male?! Where was there king?! Something was.....different....truly....different.

---

Rosalind wasn't sure how she came to care for the King so quickly, but she had. She was a caring person, and she hated to see someone in pain. Hated to see suffering and instability. She had witnessed Alexander in those stages, earlier on. Though they were practically strangers, she couldn't help but fear for him, worry about him and his recovery. Which is why she had been pleading with him to listen to his servants. After all, they all wanted to see him recover. Wanted what was best for him. She could only hope, that the chaos would soon die down. Giving Alexander a gentle smile, hoping that he would feel some sort of reassurance, as he finally seemed to settle against the cot. Sighing softly, she hoped that the period of rest for him, would last a little while before he'd attempt to do anything. Hopefully nothing too chaotic and rash. Or it could make him feel much worse, than he already felt earlier on. "Just rest, My lord." Rosalind spoke softly, as he whispered out her title once more.

She could tell that the King somehow been distracted, from the chaos of the shadows and the culprit being found by the shadows. Was it her mere presence? Unsure of what kept him distracted. But soon enough, the situation had his attention.

The guards were surprised, that she had still worked in the castle after what had happened. It wasn't often that their King had given someone a second chance like that. They kept a tight grip on the struggling servant. Waiting for their King's orders on what to do with her. "Yes, my Lord." The guards nodded in unison, as they turned around sharply with the traitor. Dragging her towards her the prison towers, so she could face further punishments and investigation. As they dragged her off, she was still kicking up a fuss and trying to free herself from their strong grip.

The only thing that everyone heard was her scream of annoyance. "You will regret this, and you will all pay!" Clearly still furious with the entire situation. Her eyes shot a glare in the King's direction; but also aimed towards the Princess Rosalind. Her jealousy slowly getting to her more and more. But no one could suffer anymore, with her getting caught. It wasn't long before the guards had reached one of the prison towers, forcing her inside one of the cells. With a rough shove...she fell inside of the cell. Hearing the cell door close sharply behind her, and locked. Leaving her to suffer in the darkness and silence. As no one was within the castle halls. She was left alone before the investigation would begin.

"Are you sure, that is wise sire?" One of the servants asked in their surprise. "She might still pose a threat, in exile if she tries to get free." Speaking cautiously, but bringing up a very good point. There was nothing to stop the servant from escaping exile and trying to cause chaos once more; if exile would end up being her punishment. They wanted to avoid this from happening again. Only looking out for the best interest of their ruler and King. Never had anyone seen the King like this. Something in him had visibly changed. And in such a short period of time. But what? They had yet to find that out.

Rosalind heard Alexander's apology. Sighing softly herself. "It isn't your fault, Alexander." For the first time, using his first name than any title. Even Rosalind herself was surprised, that he wanted to put the traitor into exile. Most Kings, would have had her on the chopping block, by now. But Exile seemed like a nicer punishment. Even with the possibility of the traitor escaping exile. The shadows seemed to calm down with the traitor dragged off to the prison cell. Rosalind's own shadow returned to the Princess. Settling close to Alexander's shadow. Almost in an embrace. But keeping close to the King's shadow, with only the cots keeping the pair apart. "I am just sorry for all this chaos, and that you got hurt. No one deserves to be put in such a situation." Rosalind spoke softly. Hoping that Alexander's recovery would be well and quick. The night had certainly taken an interesting turn. One that no one was expecting. Rosalind tried not to think on the traitors threatening words. As somehow, it felt aimed towards her for some reason. But why? They never met before.

Alexander wasn't sure how he came to care for the princess so quickly, in such a short time, but somehow, he.... HAD. Things were certainly changing, or so he began to think, as he glanced towards the princess again. He allowed himself a single sigh before he gave a nod in response. His eyes would be back upon the guards who had spoken after that. His narrowed eyes and that harsh frown would return when his eyes were upon them once more. He would not sound very happy, not at all, when he finally spoke.

"Do you dare to question me?"

His tone made it obvious he was ready to scold, and punish, anyone who dared to argue with him or the like. Anyway, he took a breath before he spoke again, and in very slightly calmer tone of course.

"You forget she shall not be released on the main path, the safest one. As per laws, she shall be released into the dark forests, where she shall be all on her own, with no one to aid her, no one at all. Her fate shall be sealed then. It shall be up to her if she survives....or not. It is a terrible punishment, and one that was only ever implemented by the previous king before myself. If she should try ton return, the shadows themselves shall prevent it, as they always have. Do you understand now? Or do you risk punishment yourself by furthering questioning myself and my decisions?"

Despite how he talked, his eyes said a warning to not to even try to question him any further. Others knew better, but apparently these guards, and perhaps those servants, did not. It was no wonder he did not trust anyone for the longest time. Some answers to that were becoming clearer. Anyway, the king would sigh and turn towards the princess once more.

"It is my fault. It was my own powers that were out of control. It was my shadows that cause the spirits, those shadows, to grow chaotic and out of control. I was the one who drank what was near myself without question. It was I who was not paying attention and let down my guard!"

He took a deep breath and tried to calm himself as the ground suddenly shook at that moment. Then, the king would clear his throat.

"You should not have been put in such a situation. No one here should have, but especially not you. I would....be highly upset if....something were to happen."

The king kept pausing during the last sentence there, almost like he had stopped to think about what he was going to say and such before he continued to speak. This was certainly different as well. Anyway, the king took another breath before he continued.

"Do not fret over those cruel words spoken towards your ears. They shall hold no power, considering what is to happen to her. She shall wish she never existed, let alone arrive at my castles' steps all those years ago."

He turned towards the others around them.

"From this moment onward, there shall be a strict probationary period for anyone who seeks employment here in the future! The shadows themselves shall decide the fates of everyone who works here, until such a time as when the shadows themselves deem them worthy of trust! A punishment upon anyone who fails those trails during that time! That is my decree!"

Nods, amongst all the widened eyes, could be seen. The king was someone to be taken seriously. They did not question his decision, for obvious reasons. They all understood and obeyed his word. His word was law after all.

---

One of the servants swallowed uncomfortably, when he heard the King raise his voice at him for questioning the traitors punishment. "Of course not Sire...I just meant..." He stumbled over his words. Not sure how to explain himself without making the King angry. He was just concerned that exile might not be the right punishment considering the lengths the traitor already went to, when it came to causing chaos in the realm and within castle walls.

Rosalind could see the servant struggling, and she of all people figured that he didn't mean it to come across that way. So she decided to step in. "I believe, your servants and guards are just simply concerned about the safety of the realm and you my Lord." Rosalind told Alexander "He didn't mean it, as him questioning your decision. But more so worried that the traitor would find a way back from exile, to cause more trouble." Hopefully her words would keep Alexander at a somewhat calmer state, as she could hear his voice picking up, in anger. Like he would scold anyone whom dared ask a question about his decision. But Rosalind wasn't sure how powerful exile really was. At least in his Kingdom. It was then that Rosalind learned more about 'exile' in this realm, as Alexander talked about how the former servants fate would be sealed, with the shadows. Hoping that they would indeed prevent the traitor from coming back and causing more havoc, than they already had to endure.

The servant was surprised that the Princess tried to defend him, as she seemingly understood where he was coming from. But his King had scared him into silence, that he just nodded in understanding. Not daring say another word; in case it would be taken in the wrong way as Alexander always seemed to take his words of concern as being rude and questioning.

The Princess sighed softly, listening to him as he took the blame for what had happened. "But you didn't know, what she was capable of doing and planning." Rosalind certainly didn't blame him for what had happened. It was the former servants choices, that had led them all to this. Before she could try and reassure him that she didn't blame him, he spoke about her being hurt. It surprised her...and confused her a little bit, that he seemed so concerned about her well being. Almost upset that something would have happened to her, if things didn't calm down. The Princess was a little speechless. Not sure what to say to that comment, from the King. Why was he concerned about her to such a degree? They were still strangers after all. Did he care for her, more than she realised? It was almost like he had read her mind, and seemed to know what words still troubled the Princess. Hearing his assurance that the traitors threats meant nothing. "Thank you, for the words of comfort." It did make her feel a little bit better. That the traitor was getting what she truly deserved. Especially after what she had done.

It came as a no surprise, when she heard Alexander's speech about future servants going through a probation period. He was taking precautions. Not that she could blame him, after the chaos that they all witnessed. It was probably for the best. Any other sensible ruler and King would have done the same. Hopefully the others, new or old servants would prove to be more trustworthy than the traitor that was locked away in the cells, right now.

Alexander sighed. He blinked and very nearly narrowed his eyes upon hearing the princess, upon hearing her stand up for that servant. He started to frown for a time. He would speak soon enough.

"In the past, when a ruler such as myself was questioned, it proved dangerous. When a ruler is questioned, it is a sign of losing respect, and a ruler often has to be respected and feared, at least at times, in order to be a strong leader. If one is not respected, they lose power. If one is not feared, they either lose respect or they are simply not taken seriously. A strong heart and will alone is not enough for a powerful ruler. A good head, and the respect, fear, and other things that they receive at times from others, are also needed, milady. Please understand that. There is more to being a king than you have witnessed, or so I hope you come to understand."

He turned towards the others for a time.

".........................."

The king had been about to say something when he heard the princess speak, again. He sighed once more and turned towards her, again, and heard what she said. It sounded as if she was trying to reassure him... again. Alexander shook his head a bit, about to wave away the words for a moment.

"I should have known. Not everyone in these or other lands take rejection well. Such a thing can make an enemy out of anyone. I should have seen that coming, milady. I truly should have."

Despite a slightly calmer state, he was still insistent that the chaos had been his fault, that he should have been more careful and everything. Obviously, there was some guilt there, but one thing at a time of course. Anyway, the king took a deep breath and glanced towards the others, yet again, about to say something, yet again.

"Guards are to be posted at the gates from this day onward. It would appear that security of our castle home needs to be much tighter than it already is. That much has certainly become....quite clear."

He turned towards the princess once more. He heard the rest of what she had been saying to him. Alexander took another breath. The king cleared his throat a bit before he made to speak to her again. He would respond to her words accordingly. She had apparently expressed further gratitude, and this time, for something he thought had simply been the right thing to do.

"I simply spoke how I felt I should. It was the right thing to do. You deserve it, milady, and much more than I do."

He had yet to tell her that she was the chosen one, the chosen bride. Of course, he doubted if now was the right time. The king had planned to announce the choice for his bride at the end of the ball, but that had occurred sooner than anticipated, and by something done as a result of the actions of another. Now? Now, he had to plan another way to make that announcement. There was one question: How was he to do it now? And when? He had no answers to that, at least not yet. The time would come soon enough though. It truly would. Until then, he still did not say anything about it to the princess.

---

Rosalind frowned when Alexander began to give her somewhat of a lecture on what it was like to be King, and what one had to do to be a good ruler. Sighing as he had finished. Clearly, he had even misunderstood her and his servants if he thought he was being questioned. "Please, do not give me a lecture on what it is to be a King. It's patronising to myself. You seem to forget...I know what it is like. I am a Princess, my father is a King! I know more than you think!" Rosalind reminded him. "Yes, a ruler has to be respected. But respect goes both ways. A ruler has to respect his servants and people. Especially if they offer concerns about the Kingdom. It is rude to accuse them of being challenging...or not listening, when it is not the case. And as for fear...fear will ultimately drive everyone away. I have seen it happen before. It's unwise to cause everyone to fear a ruler. Fear will over-come anything else. And if there is a problem in the realm, your people will not come to you because they will fear you too much to say anything, that might be off help. They'll be too scared of voicing their concerns to their own leader, because of the fear embedded. She knew this too well. Her people back home, were scared of her own father as he was strict and often accused people of questioning him, with a simple concern they had voiced. Whilst they turned to her mother instead, as she was the one they could talk to. But it was his choice, if he eventually wanted to chase everyone away with fear, because he was set on being harsh for a servant merely voicing a concern.

The Princess couldn't help but think about home, knowing that her parents would be worried about her once they'd learn what had happened here. It would have been safer, if she hadn't been here in the first place. But she couldn't change that. What had happened, happened.

The Guards had nodded at Alexander's request. "Of course your majesty, we'll dispatch guards to the gates at once." The two leaders of the guards told the King. Giving orders to their fellow guards, to go stand guard by the gates to the castle. The guards set off in various directions to the gates that surrounded the castle.

It was a matter of time, before the Princess would realise what she was to Alexander. Whether it was good news...or bad news. That was just to be known. Whilst there was a connection and an attraction of sorts, there was no doubt they would butt heads with different views on things. But then again, so did her parents. But they somehow made their marriage work. Rosalind didn't think that she would be the chosen one, but fate had decided so. But his guests were curious whom would be his chosen Queen and Bride. Right now wasn't the time for any such big revelation. Not when things at the castle had to be cleaned up, after the chaos that ruined the ball. It would take a while before things would go back to normal, after this evening. At least, fully until the traitor would be punished for her crimes. Till then, everyone was still tense and worried about the entire situation.

"Every king is different. Every land, every culture, is different. What it is like where you are from, is not entirely what is it like here, in mine. Each King must rule in a way that reflects their land, which is what I have done since I took the throne. There is more to this place, to me, than you already know."

Alexander sighed. He stopped before a fight could truly end up breaking out, or however it was to be described. He nodded when the guards spoke and he glanced over as they left. He sighed and turned back towards the princess. Perhaps he should tell her now? Before the announcement was planned to be made? He hesitated to do so though. Instead, he took a deep breath.

"Do you desire to return home?"

He frowned. He paused for a time, being silent. Then, he finally spoke again. However, his tone was.... rather quiet when he did so.

"I could easily send you home, along with the other guests. You would no longer have to worry about me, or this awful place. You do not have to be here any longer. I shall not force you to remain. You are free to go whenever you wish. There is no condition to it, for this is of my own accord. You must be safe. That is what matters now. You need not be here any longer if you do not wish to be. I am certain your family shall be relieved to see you away from such dangers, should word finally reach them."

The king paused for a time. He frowned, sincere and truly sad... somehow. Then, he continued.

"Well? What is your decision...milady?"

Alexander awaited her answer, her response. Guards and servants alike watched on with wide eyes and listened with held breaths. They anticipated what she would say, and when she would say it. Some actually found themselves hoping she would choose to stay. Others? Others were doubting if she would. What was going to happen now? That was the biggest question at the moment.

Even if she was his chosen bride, he was not going to force her to stay. The king was not going to make her stay by his side. She had her free will. The choice was hers and hers alone. He knew that much. Now, he could only wait and see what that choice would be.

---

Rosalind did not expect that his kingdom, be the same as where she came from. But she also didn't think that he would be so harsh on his servants to accuse them of questioning him, when voicing a concern. As he asked how it was, where she came from. Rosalind was lost in thought about back home, for a few moments. "It's different back home, more light...My Lord." She began to explain. "My people are more in tune with nature, than the shadows." She explained, one of the differences between them. "But my father is a lot like you, My Lord. He believes in fear, when it comes to handling his people. But it saddens me to say, that a lot of people shy away from coming to him with concerns because of how much they have grown to fear him. They're scared, he would so much as snap at them for voicing concerns they have. More of them, feeling more comfortable coming to my mother for help." Rosalind explained. Why did she mention her father? Because, she did not wish to see his own people scared of their own King. But respect his own Kingdom and the way he ruled, she would. Despite her concerns, about his people.

Maybe they were too different? Or perhaps they were not. It was only a matter of time, before they would find that out.

At the suggestion of going home, maybe she would be safer returning back home. Where she was used to. A safer realm by what she had witnessed tonight. But would her parents be angry at her for returning so soon? It almost seemed like Alexander was sad at the mention of her going home. Almost like he wanted her to stay. "Your home is different, your majesty. But not awful." Rosalind assured him. It wasn't the worst of places, if she had to admit. It was a bit darker than she would have liked. But she assumed it was because of all the Shadow Magic, he had spoken off. "Whether I am here, or home...I'll be concerned your majesty. It's nothing pleasant you have endured tonight." Her words of course, coming from a place of concern and well being.

She became aware of how many people were looking at her, waiting for a decision. Did she want to go home or stay? Not quiet sure herself. "If I may have more time to decide, I'll let you know sometime tomorrow." Rosalind promised Alexander. "But I do wish to send word back home, just in case my parents heard what transpired here. To let them know, they don't need to worry." It was maybe an odd request. But she didn't wish to worry her parents about what had happened here tonight. Knowing her mother, most likely be freaking out the most when she'd hear that Rosalind had been injured, even in the slightest bit.

Alexander blinked. He had not been asking about her land. He had simply been stating something, stating fact and all that. This king was tempted to shake his head, but he managed to refrain from doing so. This male also kept himself from sighing, as it was clearly not an appropriate thing to do, especially then and there. Alexander was not one to openly react sometimes, depending on the situation, on the moment. And so, he simply nodded at times, as she spoke. He did not interrupt her as she chose to explain, whether he had actually asked her to do so or not, and allowed her to say, or do, as she wished at that moment. He did not speak until she was finished.

"...I see."

The king cleared his throat for a moment after he said that. Suddenly, he blinked. He found himself raising an eyebrow as he looked at her when he spoke again.

"I doubt if I have THAT much in common with the man. There is more to me than meets the eye....milady."

Alexander wondered something. Did she truly believe that they were that similar? or did she hope to not be chosen as his bride by frightening him? or perhaps making him re-think things? If any was the case, the answer to all was obvious. She was the chosen bride. He was not frightened off. He was not truly re-thinking things. And.......on top of that....he was unlike her father, that other king. That was what he believed anyway.

"My home is not as....terrible....as it appears on the surface, but only those who have lived here have seen what I, myself, have seen. That is the truth, milady."

He took a breath.

"....concerned?"

He frowned. He shook his head a bit.

"You need not concern yourself with me, if you, yourself, are in danger. It was my fault that all that chaos occurred in the first place, milady. I, the king, am a threat, the cause of you being in danger, the one responsible for harm coming into your life at this time. You need no longer be around me if it is not a desire of yours."

The king was actually quite sincere. He meant every word he said just then. Those who knew him well enough would have been surprised upon hearing this. He seemed to truly be changing somehow. Anyway, he ignored the stares. This male continued to wait for an answer until it was finally given. He blinked, confused. He had assumed she would desire to leave straight away. Apparently, he had assumed wrong.... or did he? The king just barely kept from sighing at that moment.

"More...time?"

The frown became more apparent on his face. A moment or so passed before he finally nodded, and only once.

"...Very well."

He tried to stand up for a moment, only to be prevented from doing so. The king narrowed his eyes at those that had done so, but managed to refrain from becoming loud at that moment. Now was not the time for such a thing. He knew that. Then, he glanced back at the princess....his bride. The king heard the princesses' request of sending a message to her parents, those other royals.

"Very well. One of my Ravens shall deliver your message should you have it written as soon as you may be able to do so."

It seemed a bit odd. However, he did not question her. The king would allow this much.

---

Seeing his reaction changing, Rosalind could tell that he didn't like what she had said. But was trying to keep calm in her presence. She bit the inside of her cheek slightly after she finished speaking. Letting the King himself say his peace on the matter that was being discussed. "I am sure there is. There's more to every single person my lord." Rosalind didn't disagree, that she didn't know him fully. And she was sure, that there was more to him than meets the eye. "But that doesn't stop me from seeing few similarities my lord." she added politely. But if she gathered things correctly, from his personality so far. He was too stubborn to admit to any similarities, that were spotted by herself to her father. Maybe in time, he might come to see them.

No she wasn't trying to scare him off. But she was concerned about how his people might end up if he kept treating them like her father treated his people. It wouldn't end well for anybody. That much she knew.

Rosalind nodded respectfully as he spoke about his home. "I have never denied as such, my lord." The Princess spoke truthfully. She was sure, that his people had witnessed a lot. More than she had seen tonight.

The Princess silenced herself, seeing he seemed a bit offended that she was concerned about him. It didn't seem like their rough patch was mending it self any time soon, with their opposing personalities. Was she wrong to give him a chance and hope, they might see eye to eye? Or should she just let it be? Rosalind wasn't sure in that moment, if she was being honest with herself. But as he seemed to accept her weird request, she nodded lightly. "Thank you, my lord." Rosalind was thankful, that he would allow her to send word to her parents. It came as a relief to her.