[IC] Amnesia [Suki & Summer]

[sukikyoufu]

Sighing happily when he had agreed at the idea of going out, she was glad, it was a good shot at someone recognising her and plus it would be fun to see more of the city. It could spark something for her and that was what she ultimately wanted. She was sure something in the city would help with her memories, if she lived here of course she would have to remember something or even someone for that matter. Maybe she would be lucky and find her father, perhaps he was out looking for her in the city? It was a long shot but none the less she couldn’t predict what would or wouldn’t happen. “Brilliant! That sounds like a plan, explore the city! Plus, I’m hoping my leg will be a bit better too! It seems to be healing quite nicely.”

It was true her leg had begun the healing process and although still painful here and there it was getting easier each day. Tomorrow she was sure she would have the energy to be able to walk around for longer than she had today. Looking up at the topic of his friends she couldn’t help but smile, “I’d love to meet them! I’m sure they are harmless and plus it sounds like a nice evening. Just to relax with good company.” She was sure his friends would be nice, he seemed nice enough himself, so she doubted he surrounded himself with horrible people.

Her smile widened when he spoke about being the best damn tour guide in all of Aspiria. “Wow, not bragging about yourself much?” Smirking at his words she folded her arms watching him as he rose from his seat to move around. “Must be a common trait in royalty, to be incredibly boastful and so up themselves~” She couldn’t help but laugh as she spoke out her words, holding her hand to her mouth to try and stop the giggles. “Your highness~”

She knew he would take it as a joke, plus she highly doubted anyone would dare joke with him this way or even talk to him like this. It must be refreshing; I hope it is at least. Smiling to herself she couldn’t help but watch him, the way he moved and reactions. She loved to watch his reactions and she knew it wasn’t just because he had been nice to her, it was hard not to like him. He was attractive, his personality was great and on top of it all he seemed like a genuine person. Not fake in any way. She knew it was dangerous, to have some sort of crush on him as she would call it because she had no memories. What if she was with someone already? Although she would have liked to think if she did have a boyfriend, he would have been worried by now with her going missing. It was so strange to her that no one had called for her yet, it had been a couple of days and no one had thought to check in on her. It was strange.

[Rogue Sloth]

Cas paused when Iris brought up her healing leg. He’d been so caught up in all the fun they’d been having during the movie that he’d nearly forgotten she was still injured. It was hard not to, since her cheery mood hadn’t been dampened in the slightest, and the jumper she was wearing covered the bandages. He made a mental note to keep an eye on her if or when they went back into the city, just in case the strain of walking around made her leg worse. The last thing he wanted to do was cause her to be in pain longer than she needed to be. If she showed any sign of wincing or excessive limping, he would make sure they could get back to the house right away so she could rest.

“Just give them five minutes,” he insisted with conviction when she said she was sure his friends were harmless. “You’ll see why I warned you.” Honestly, it might only take them three. He was fond of Jay and Miles, but the two weren’t always great at making first impressions, especially with girls they thought were hot. His lip twitched as he repressed a grimace at the mental image of Miles trying a cheesy pick-up line and Jay egging him on for his own amusement. He would have liked to believe the other high borns would go easy on her since she didn’t even know who she was, but he knew them too well to be optimistic.

In hindsight, it might have been a good idea for him to tell them that he was trying to pursue her, if only to make the two think twice about causing her any trouble. He absently rested his hand over his jean pocket where he’d stowed his phone. It wasn’t too late to set precedence. All it would take was a few seconds for him to tell them he’d changed his mind. However, he was hesitant. If he warded them off by admitting his own interest in Iris—which he couldn’t even lie about, since the feelings were really there—the full force of their harassment would fall on his shoulders. He already knew they would pester him endlessly for details. They prided themselves on being the first to find out all the juicy gossip about the prince’s life. He suspected it was why they pushed him so hard to find out what had been going on since the night he’d found her.

At least they might lay off her, he reasoned with an internal sigh. He could handle Jay and Miles, since he’d gotten used to their prodding, but he didn’t know how Iris would deal with them. As much as he disliked the thought of confessing his crush to his friends, he had to admit it was the safer option. He’d have to remember to text them back before the end of the day.

When Iris teased him about his bragging, Cas shrugged. “I think I’ve earned the right to be proud of some parts of my life,” he retorted with a cheeky smile. Parting his lips to add another remark, he froze when she suddenly added a sarcastic “Your Highness” to the end of her phrase. The unexpectedness of it made his eyes widen, but he couldn’t hide the amusement in his visage.

“Since when did you get so cocky?” he teased, sauntering to her seat and leaning over her with his arms crossed in mock chastisement. It was impossible to keep up a serious façade when the sound of her giggles made him want to laugh as well. Instead, he smiled at her good-humoredly. “For the love of God, Iris, please don’t call me that unless we’re at some formal event, and I’ll only let you do it then because you’d be arrested if you didn’t.” It was a dumb law that his grandfather had put into place to force respect from the citizens of Aspiria, but until he was king, there was nothing he could do to change it.

Realizing how close he was hovering in her space, he straightened his posture. “We’ve got about an hour left until dinner,” he said, changing the subject to get his mind off the fleeting moment that had nearly made him flustered again. He really needed to watch himself around her. “Here,” he offered his hand to help her up from her cushioned recliner. “Is there anything else you wanted to do before we eat, or do you just want to go back to your room to rest?”

[sukikyoufu]

“Five minutes? Surely not!” Iris chuckled as he spoke about his friends, on another note she was kind of intrigued by them. Especially with the fact he had warned her, but again she was curious to know his friends. There was a chance that hanging around with his friends could spark memories or her own, remind her of what she had maybe done with her own friends in the past. “If you mean they’ll tease and prod I’m sure I can handle it. I’m a fighter.” She knew she would take it in good humour, she doubted they would be malicious but none the less it was hard not to be excited about meeting new people.

Their good humour between each other, the laughs. It was so nice, and she was glad he didn’t seem to be the uptight kind because he might have taken offence to her comments. Trying to stop the giggles she smirked over at him picking her next words carefully, “So does this mean you’re going to invite me to a formal event then?” However, it was interesting on what kind of formal events he attended; did they host balls? Banquets? She was certain it had to be some sort of grand affair and it was kind of exciting. The idea that if she didn’t address him as such at formal events would get her arrested was something, she couldn’t help but think on. Had it happened before? Before she could even stop her train of thought she couldn’t help but ask the question.

“Has that happened before? Did someone get arrested because of that?” Watching as he straightened his posture a flicker of sadness passed through because she had enjoyed the closeness. Stop it! Don’t think like that. Berating herself for the fleeting moment she turned her attention back to Cas hoping she hadn’t zoned out for too long.

“Ah! Thanks” Smiling as she took his hand helping herself up from the chair, she had almost forgotten that her leg was injured, adjusting her posture she found a comfortable way to stand and she couldn’t help but stretch. Sitting down after a while she needed to stretch her limbs. “Hmmm… I think maybe a little bit of rest would do me some good, I want to have all the energy to go exploring tomorrow. Unless you wanted to do anything?”

The idea of dinner was exciting, the late lunch had been great, and she was sure whatever was made for dinner would be amazing. Again, anything was better than the hospital food she had. “Although I have high standards when it comes to the food here.” It was hard not to wind him up, she took great pleasure in it and she knew she shouldn’t.

“I think I can find my way back; I’m assuming back to the kitchen in an hour?” She knew where she was going, sort of. It was pretty easy route as she remembered, and she was excited about her room that she was staying in. It was beautiful.

[Rogue Sloth]

“Maybe,” Cas answered vaguely when Iris asked if he would invite her to any formal events. It was less likely that he would send her a personal invitation and more so that she would get one sent from the Maydestone family as a whole. His father liked to invite all the high borns in the capital whenever he put on one of the spectacles. It was all just a show of power, but it kept the people happy. In fact, he was sure she had already been to one of the events in the past. She would probably remember it when she got her memories back: the flashy décor that lined the square in the middle of the capital, the gourmet food and drink, the regal music… and who could forget the long speeches about the state of the nation, broadcasted on hovering jumbotrons for everyone to see?

As much as the gatherings were meant to make the citizens happy, he knew they were designed to announce the strength of the monarchy to their enemies as well. Aspiria wasn’t on the best of terms with all the neighboring countries, and there were also the rebels to deter from within her own borders. The politics were enough to make the prince’s head swim, and they were also the main reason why he wasn’t particularly fond of the displays his family put together. The other reason was simply the fact that he had to wear a suit.

When Iris asked if someone had been arrested for addressing him the wrong way before, he sighed. “I wish I could tell you it hasn’t,” he expressed honestly. “But the soldiers are strict. If they catch anyone referring to me as anything less than ‘your highness’ or ‘my prince,’ they cuff them on the spot.” The most mortifying experience with the law that he could remember was when a distant cousin of his own family had called him ‘Caspian’ without the title ‘Prince’ when he was only nine years old. His father had made no exception and had the woman arrested without hesitation.

As Iris stood up, Cas took a moment to make sure she found her balance before he dropped her hand. “Okay,” he took a step back from her when she said she wanted to rest before dinner. “I didn’t have any plans. We can just meet up again later.” A break would give him some time to check on his father too. He was sure the king already knew she had arrived, but he wasn’t certain how he’d reacted to the news. After all, his consent to her staying with them had been reluctant at best and full of conditions. He wouldn’t have been surprised if he went to Atlas’s room and found him brooding.

“Yeah,” he nodded when Iris asked if they would be meeting in the kitchen for dinner. “That’s usually where we eat unless the staff was given orders to bring the food somewhere else.” Every once in a while, he asked the maids to bring his meal to his room, usually if he was ill or if he didn’t want to leave for whatever reason. His father also frequently dined in private these days—when he even had an appetite to eat, that was.

“See you later, Iris,” Cas smiled at her one more time before he turned to head out of the theater. Now to find out how his father was handling everything that had happened that day.

[sukikyoufu]

Iris couldn’t believe someone had been arrested for not addressing him as such, she made a mental note to ensure she would use the correct terms if she went to one of the formal events. She was sure it had to be something she would have remembered for sure, when her memories would return, she would remember attending such an event she was certain of it. Even so she would remind herself to call him your highness as she did not want to be arrested, that would not help her situation which was confusing enough as it was.

“I’ll meet you later for dinner!” Smiling as she hobbled along giving him a small wave as she headed back towards the room, she was allowed to stay in. Thankful she had remembered the route she grinned as she opened the door to the grand room where she could explore a little. Checking the time, she made a note to keep an eye on it so she could return to the kitchen on time, she didn’t want to be late after all.

Tomorrow will be good, I’m sure something will come back to me tomorrow. Moving to the fireplace she couldn’t help but smile at the idea of using it at some point, sitting on the sofa reading a book whilst being warmed by the fire sounded lovely. Not right now of course, but maybe later on. Although she should probably ask if it was okay too, she didn’t want to overstep her bounds whilst here. Sitting on the comfortable sofa she sighed happily enjoying the feel of the fabric beneath her, fingers stroked the cushions on the sofa as she closed her eyes just relaxing in her own space.

It’s nice to just… relax. Although I hope Cas is okay. He has done an awful lot for me. How could I thank him? He pretty much has everything and I’m sure he knows I am grateful but still… Thinking on what she could do to thank him her thoughts turned to earlier events but on the touch earlier, touching his hand had been completely innocent but yet it was something she could not forget. It had been soft, warm and inviting. I wonder what he thought about it? I’m sure he thought it was nothing. Well. It was nothing. At least… I think it was? Frowning slightly as she shook her head not wanting to think on it anymore, she looked towards the window noticing the stunning view.

Curious as always, she pushed herself off of the sofa and wandered over to get a better look. It was stunning, breath taking to see the land expand out. It was no surprise they had a vast amount of land; they were the rulers of Aspiria so of course they had all this land to themselves. Looking at the greenery and the gardens she wanted to look around them, she was sure they had some stunning gardens with flowers and fountains. There was nothing like a beautiful scenery that’s for sure.

I’m sure I can look around another day, especially with my damn good tour guide. Smiling to herself as she thought about asking Cas to show her around the gardens at a later date, she hoped he would agree.

[Rogue Sloth]

“Come in.” the usual response followed when Cas knocked on the door to his father’s room. He pushed it open to find the king in his usual station, sitting upright on his bed with his back pressed against the headboard for support. It was the most activity the prince had seen him manage in the last week, aside from the one time Atlas had stopped him in the hallway outside his own room. The sight brought a concerned look to his face. Though his father always put on a tough appearance, he clearly wasn’t doing well. Whatever unknown illness had seized hold of his aging body wasn’t giving in to the treatments of the doctors. Every day it seemed to sap away a little more of the king’s strength, leaving him a withered husk of the man he used to be.

“Put your pity away,” Atlas grumbled, taking note of his son’s sympathetic expression. He gestured for him to come closer with a wave of his hand and waited for his obedience before he asked: “What do you need?”

“I just wanted to see how you’re doing,” Cas frowned. His father had always been brusque, but there was a new edge to his voice that gave away a deeper displeasure than usual. He wasn’t sure if it was because of Iris’s presence in the mansion or the fact that Dr. Emett’s medicine didn’t seem to be making much of a difference in his health or some unpleasant combination of both. Whatever the case, the prince was careful to stay on his toes. He didn’t want to say something that would set the irritable king off when his intention in approaching him had been solely for the other man’s benefit.

His father grunted and looked away. “If you continue to wear your heart on your sleeve, the people will eat you alive,” he muttered, dodging the question in a way that didn’t slip past Cas for a second. “Remind me to teach you again about the value of stoicism sometime.”

The prince exhaled and sat halfway at the foot of the bed. “I can call Dr. Emett to come back for you,” he offered slowly, trying to come up with a solution without further angering the king. “Maybe he has another medicine you can try.”

Atlas waved his hand. “I’m fine,” he asserted, even though his son could clearly see that he wasn’t. “In fact, I’ll be joining you for dinner this evening in the dining room.”

Cas stared at him, momentarily unsure if he’d heard the king correctly. “You’re... joining me?” he echoed. He couldn’t tell if he was relieved that his father was feeling well enough to eat in an upright chair or worried that he was going to push himself too far in doing so.

“Of course,” his father nearly sounded amused. “We have a guest in the house, and I have yet to introduce myself. What kind of host would I be if I didn’t welcome her properly?”

So, this is about Iris, Cas realized, studying the king in quiet contemplation. He should have expected that his father was too paranoid to let a stranger live under their roof without seeing her for himself. He was a little caught off guard by his insistence though. Atlas had always been shrewd about wearing his best face in the eye of the public, but with his creeping illness, he was in no condition to look regal for anyone. If anything, he could more easily be compared to a ghost than a man with strength in his limbs. His skin was pale, his muscles had atrophied, and he had dark circles beneath his eyes. Every inch of him betrayed his fading health in a way that would take nothing less than a professional makeup artist to conceal.

“You don’t have to do that,” he protested. “I’ve already helped her get settled in on your behalf.”

“And I appreciate your efforts,” his father acknowledged with a nod. “However, I would also like to meet this young lady for myself. I’m… curious to see the face of the tormented soul who wrung my son’s bleeding heart.”

Cas shifted uncomfortably. Though the king didn’t say it out loud, he had a feeling his father was concerned about the fact that he had become so involved with Iris just because she was a woman. Atlas always micromanaged his relationships, and he was probably concerned about the prince getting too attached to her, since he still wanted to arrange his marriage someday. If he found out about his son’s budding crush on her, he would exile her from the mansion faster than he could speak a single word in her defense.

“If you insist,” he shrugged after a pause, deciding it was pointless to argue about it any further. There was no one who could command the king but the king himself. If he wanted to meet Iris, Cas couldn’t stop him. He stepped away from the bed. “I guess I’ll see you at dinner.”

“I’m sure it will be delightful.”

Cas forced a polite smile, although delightful was the furthest word from what he would have chosen.

Having finished speaking with his father, the prince spent the rest of the hour lounging in his room, scrolling on social media and trying to ignore the knot in his stomach. He didn’t know what to expect at dinner now that the king was planning to join them, but he didn’t trust the cautious man enough to expect that he would just make pleasant conversation. So, by the time the kitchen staff finished preparing their food, he headed downstairs preparing for an uncomfortable meal.

[sukikyoufu]

The hour has passed quickly, in that time Iris had enjoyed the view from her window as well as explored the room. It was lovely and everything had the finer touch to it, how could you not enjoy the comfort of the bed and the sofa. It was so luxurious, and she couldn’t help but wonder what her own room had been like. What kind of personal items did she have around the room? It was the little things she couldn’t help but wonder on.

Grimacing as she looked at the time she hadn't realised how quickly it had gone, oh shoot! I hope I’m not late! Picking herself up from the sofa she had settled in she grabbed her crutches and made her way towards the kitchen, it had been around an hour and she had said she would meet Cas back in the kitchen so she tried to hurry as much as she could. She hated the idea of being late even though it was just dinner.

Wondering what dinner was, Iris could already smell the cooked meat which had wafted down the hall, it smelt great and she couldn’t help but smile. The food here was amazing so far and she knew it could only get better. Plus, she was sure spending more time with Cas would be wonderful, she enjoyed his company she hoped he enjoyed hers too.

Smiling to herself as she pushed open the door to the kitchen she was greeted with the smells of different foods and she could already tell she was hungry. Glancing around she could see the workers preparing the table and she felt relieved that she hadn’t been late, she couldn’t help but notice it looked as if it was being set for more than two. Hang on… is his father joining us? Nerves hit her at the idea of his father joining them, she was sure nothing would go wrong, but she didn’t want to make a bad impression as he had opened his home up to her after all.

How do I address Cas? I know he said formal events your highness, but would his father expect me to address him as such? I’ll need to courtesy right? Glancing down at her leg knowing that would be difficult she would try to make the effort after all. As much as it was strange to think they were royalty and she hadn’t really address Cas as such she wasn’t sure if she should around his father.

Maybe I’m over thinking it, he might not be joining us for dinner, and this could be the staff preparing it to go to his room. That could work, right? Shaking her head, she moved into the kitchen fully looking out for Cas, she could feel the nerves and she hoped she was wrong and had over thought things. Not that she didn’t want to meet him, she was sure he was a nice person but it was still nerve wracking because she wanted to make a good impression.

[Rogue Sloth]

When Cas made it to the kitchen, he found that he wasn’t the first arrive. He caught sight of Iris across the room and made his way over to join her. As much as he disliked it, his father was going to be joining them for dinner, so he needed to prepared her to face him before he got there. Any unexpected or disrespectful reactions from her—even if they were inadvertent—would displeased the king. He didn’t want to risk getting her kicked out before she had even spent her first night in the mansion, and there was no way of knowing if she remembered proper etiquette around the royal family. So far, he hadn’t seen her show any to him, but he had expressed that he didn’t like being treated specially, so she might have just been honoring his request. Just in case though, he decided to refresh her memory.

“Hey,” he greeted her warmly, hoping to give her a dose of friendliness before the ice king entered and chilled the mood. Stopping by her side, he casted a quick glance over his shoulder to make sure Atlas hadn’t gotten to the kitchen yet before he turned back to her with a more serious expression. “So, my dad is planning to eat with us,” he admitted, getting straight to the point with the limited time they had. “I just have a couple words of advice before he shows up. First,” he held up his index finger as he began his list. “Try not to act too shocked when you see him. I don’t know if you remember or not, but he’s ill, and, well… he definitely looks it. If you give away any appalment, it’ll make him upset.”

He held up his second finger, “Also, remember what I said about not calling me Your Highness? Scrap that. Anything my dad shows up to is automatically a formal event. The general rule of thumb is to avoid our names altogether. If you do that, you should be golden.” He paused briefly before adding, “And don’t sit down or leave the table before he does. Don’t touch your food first either. He has to initiate everything.” It wasn’t the best crash course in royal etiquette, but it would have to do for now, especially because his father had just arrived in the kitchen.

Quickly, Cas took a step away from Iris to put a little more distance between them, careful not to look like he was too close to her while the king limped toward them. Atlas was leaning most of his weight into the cane that he used to get around with a focused look on his face as if the simple act of walking was taxing business. His eyes drifted from his son’s face to hers, where he paused, taking in the sight of the guest who was now staying in his home.

Sensing a quiet that was dragging on too long to be comfortable for anyone, the prince cleared his throat. “Dad, this is Iris,” he introduced her, holding out one hand.

“So it is,” the king mused, eyeing the amnesiac girl with an unreadable expression that made his son nervous. Another brief silence followed as he limped closer to her and stopped, straightening his posture as much as his decrepit spine would allow. “It’s a pleasure to meet you Iris. To which family do you belong?”

[sukikyoufu]

Relieved when she saw Cas enter, she smiled and gave a small wave as a form of greeting, she listened to him as he spoke about how his dad was joining them, she assumed as much, but he had just confirmed her thoughts. Feeling a bit relieved at the pointers he was giving her she was glad, again she didn’t want to make a bad impression and she wanted it to go well. She hoped it could go well but she had this sense that he would find something wrong, she could be wrong, but she couldn’t help but feel that way.

“Got it! Thank you.” Smiling at Cas taking note to address him as high highness as well as his father when he entered, she felt like she could do it. Hopefully it wouldn’t be too hard, as long as she was polite, respectful and waited for him to do things first she should be okay.

Here’s to hoping…

Biting her lip slightly as she felt the nerves rise in her stomach, she didn’t really feel hungry anymore because she felt this huge amount of pressure all of a sudden. She wondered how Cas must have felt but he had still taken the time to give her a few pointers, thankfully.
Leaning on the crutches she looked up when she heard Atlas enter, she could see him limping over to them and she could sense he wasn’t in full health. Her expression did not change as she knew herself the pitiful looks did not help whilst ill and Cas had already warned her about it, her heart was hammering in her chest as he moved closer and she tried to think of everything Cas had just told her. Be respectful, be respectful! Dammit!

It was like a lightbulb had just gone off and when Atlas had approached Iris bowed to him, well best she could as with her injured leg she couldn’t bow fully without falling flat on her face. A flicker of pain crossed through her blue eyes, but she kept the polite, respectful smile on her face as she rose from the bow hoping he didn’t think she had been disrespectful because she couldn’t bow all the way. “Your highness.”

Her voice was soft as she spoke and she kept the smile on her face as Cas introduced her to his father, she could tell he was quite the stern man. Well he seemed it and she also assumed he took a lot of pride in himself as she noticed he tried to straighten his own posture. She didn’t comment because that would be incredibly stupid.

“Your highness, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Nodding her head out of respect she hoped he didn’t see the wince when he asked which family she belonged too. How was she supposed to answer that? “I wish I could voice what family I belong to but that’s a memory I have yet to gain.” She was certain honesty was best here, he must have known about her memories. “I hope it returns soon as I don’t want to impose on your kindness much longer.” As much as she wanted to glance at Cas, seek his approval for her words she knew it was best not too, the smile did not waver from her face and she waited for him to sit down before she even dared to move.

[Rogue Sloth]

Standing before the king was nothing new for Cas, but he could tell Iris was feeling pressured beside him. The tension in the air was so thick, it could have been cut with a knife. With no memories of the ruler of Aspiria nor any recollection about proper behavior to display in his presence, all she had to go on were the few brief pointers had been able to scramble together before his father had arrived. And it was only too late that he realized his list had been woefully incomplete.

The prince glanced discreetly at Iris when the monarch addressed her, biting the inside of his cheek as he noticed that he had forgotten to tell her to bow or curtsey or do something to show a sign of outward respect, since it was unlawful not to. In the presence of the soldiers, she would have to call him by unnecessary titles, but there were even more mandates in place that dictated how she could interact with the king. He hoped his father would take mercy on her, since she had only just left the hospital that morning.

However, it turned out that he was fretting for nothing because in the next moment, she surprised him by leaning forward in the deepest bow she could manage in her injured state. He blinked and looked away again, internally relieved that her amnesia hadn’t stolen away all her knowledge about how to address the royal family. His father seemed to be pleased as well. The king was not an expressive man, but his son knew him well enough to catch sight of the subtle movement in his jaw as he unclenched his teeth.

As for her answer to his question, the reaction was harder to gauge. Cas wasn’t sure what his father was trying to pull by asking her which family she belonged to when she couldn’t even remember her last name. He had a feeling it was a test of some sort though. The king was cunning by anyone’s measurement, and he was one of the most distrusting people the prince had ever known. If he had to take a guess, Atlas was probably skeptical about her condition and intended to throw curveball questions at her to see if he could break her act. He fought the urge to roll his eyes. If that really was the case, he was going to be sorely disappointed when he discovered that she was just a normal girl who’d hit her head.

“Nonsense. You aren’t imposing on anything,” his father said dismissively.

Bullshit, Cas thought, reflecting on how persistent he’d had to be to convince the king to let her anywhere near the mansion.

“Come,” Atlas turned toward the table in the nearby dining room where their plates had been set up by the wait staff. “I am eager to get to know you over dinner and drinks, Iris.”

While his father’s back facing them, Cas shot Iris a helpless look and shrugged his shoulders before following him over to the table. The king took up the seat at the head, and the prince stood behind the chair on his right, waiting for the monarch to settle down comfortably before he did so as well. The rules weren’t as strict among the members of the royal family—the soldiers would sooner be executed than they would arrest the heir to the throne for something as petty as disregarding etiquette—but he didn’t want to earn any scolding looks from his father for ignoring protocol.

The other utensils had been set up across from him on Atlas’s left.

On the table were three plates covered by metal domes to conserve the dishes’ heat. Cas could smell buttery shellfish underneath. He shot his father a bemused look. Atlas was supposed to be eating light meals to keep from upsetting his stomach while he was on medication, but it seemed like his pride wouldn’t allow him to serve anything less than the best while there was a guest in their home.

The king removed his dome first and picked up his fork and knife, digging in to a steaming lobster tail. “So, Iris,” he mused. “Caspian told me he found you in the woods. What were you doing outside the capital in the middle of the night?”

[sukikyoufu]

Somehow, I don’t believe that. This was going to be such an uncomfortable dinner; she could feel it but at the same time she hoped it would be okay. Maybe if she answered all his questions, he would feel more at ease with her being here? It was unlikely because she could understand why he would be weary, an alleged amnesiac girl who has been allowed into the home of royals? Yeah, she could understand completely. It was understandable why his guard was up, but she hoped after this dinner she could ease his worry of her. She wasn’t here to cause any harm. Not that she could remember.

Following him along when the King had told them to come she sat down after both the King and Caspain had done so, regardless of how she felt or if her leg was in pain it was proper etiquette and she did not fancy getting arrested all because she didn’t sit down at the right moment. She didn’t really know how to respond to his comment on getting to know her, she didn’t even know herself, but she kept the smile none the less.

Even though the food was covered in metal domes she could still smell the wonderful food beneath it, she was sure it was fantastic. Watching as the King removed his dome and started to tuck into the food, she glanced over at Caspain to ensure he had done the same before she even removed her own. Happy that the two had made a start she removed her own dome and looked at the food, it looked amazing and the smell complimented the food making it hard not to be excited at tasting it.

Looking up as she picked up her own cutlery, she heard the question from the King, and she was certain he had to be trying to find a loophole in her story. Again, she understood why, if she was ever in his shoes, she would probably feel the same. Even she had to admit it was strange to be found in the woods and she had no idea why she had been there. “Ah yes…” Meeting his gaze she still kept her smile in place even though inside she was a nervous wreck, “Prince Caspian told me that he found me in the woods. Sadly, that is something I don’t know.” Grimacing slightly because she wished she had an answer for him, “I didn’t even know I had been in there, let alone why I was there in the first place and it concerns me.” As I’m sure it does you.

“There is very little I remember if I’m honest but it’s slowly coming back. I’m hoping I have that one piece of memory return which just opens up everything. It’s strange looking at your reflection and not knowing who you are. It’s hard to describe that feeling. Ah do forgive me your highness! I seemed to have rambled a little bit there.” Glancing down at her food she took a bite more to stop herself from rambling more as she doubted, he would appreciate it, she hoped it was going alright. She wished she could look at Caspain for any hints or pointers but she knew it wouldn’t work.

[Rogue Sloth]

At first, Cas decided not to contribute to the conversation his father was having with Iris. He could explain all he wanted that he wasn’t going to get anything out of her even if she was a threat, but he knew the king was too stubborn to listen. It was better to just let him go through with his interrogation and let him figure it out for himself. He absentmindedly twined strands of angel hair around the prongs of his fork from the shrimp pasta that had been served alongside the lobster. He’d seen the look on her face when she had been trying to fill in the gaps about who she was. Not even the best actresses in the country could fake that kind of sorrow. He was certain she was just a normal girl who’d been in an unfortunate accident, just as he’d seen when he’d found her.

Although he knew his father would have to come to the same conclusion eventually, when the king suddenly asked what she had been doing in the woods, the prince looked up from his food with raised brows. It was an accusative question even if he’d bothered to ask it with a smile—which he hadn’t. He was surprised how quickly Atlas was revealing his distrust when she had been nothing less than pleasant since the minute they had met. It seemed a little unfair in his opinion.

Of course, Iris was unable to give the king any more information than she’d given him in the hospital, but the grimace that appeared on her face was enough to persuade Cas to step in. He swallowed the mouthful of pasta he’d been chewing on and turned to his father, “When she woke up, she remembered next to nothing, and not much has come back since then.” Playing along with the king’s feigned desire to get to know her, he added, “I know this must be disappointing to you, but you won’t be able to learn much more about her until things start to fall back into place.”

Atlas held his gaze for a drawn-out moment as if he was trying to decide if his son was interrupting his plans or not. “Well then, I hope they do quickly,” he said after a pause, taking a sip of the white wine that had been poured alongside their seafood dishes. “I’m curious to find out what motivation any high born woman would have to leave the capital at such a peculiar hour.”

Cas nearly rolled his eyes at his father’s insinuation that Iris wasn’t high born. “She wasn’t that far outside the city,” he pointed out. “I wouldn’t have found her if she was.”

“It’s still unusual, don’t you think?” the king insisted with an air of nonchalance that felt forced to the prince. “Especially with the unresolved situation with The Scourge. It’s dangerous for anyone to venture outside the capital while those terrorists are threatening our lives and livelihood.”

“Well, we’ll find out why she was there after she gets her memories back,” he shrugged, overtly taking a long draught of wine. If his father was going to insist on probing Iris for details she couldn’t give, he was going to need something to take the edge off.

“Pace yourself, Caspian,” Atlas mumbled chidingly before returning his attention to his guest. “My intention is not to make you uncomfortable. However, we need to know more about you if we are going to decide where to send you.” Cas noticed he didn’t even promise she would be going home. The king continued: “The sooner we can do this, the better. Wouldn’t you agree?”

[sukikyoufu]

Iris looked up when Cas spoke on her behalf, he didn’t need to of course but she appreciated it. It was hard to answer questions when she did not know anything about herself or what had happened and it was nice to feel like he was defending her to some degree. Frowning when he mentioned the Scourge, she had heard that name before, but she didn’t know why, “The Scourge?” Whispering more to herself than anything when it clicked. They were the group of terrorists, right? The people beyond the Capital, a group her mother had been victim too according to her memory? Well that’s what she thought. Again, it was all just pieces of a puzzle and one that was proving very difficult to piece back together.

Sighing to herself as she wished she could give him more than her answers of I don’t know, she hardly felt hungry anymore but with the interrogation she wasn’t surprised. She felt bad because she felt like she was causing this tension, if she wasn’t here then there wouldn’t be a problem and she didn’t want to cause problems for Caspain. The fact that Capsain had somehow managed to get his father to agree for her to stay in the first place was quite the achievement but again she didn’t want to cause the problems regardless of her own situation. Not to someone who had been so kind.

“I whole heartedly agree with you, your highness.” Managing a smile up at the King when he mentioned his intention was to not make her uncomfortable, “I can only thank you for the kindness you have extended to me so far. I completely understand your concerns with me being here, but I don’t want to cause any trouble for you or Prince Caspain.” She could feel her heart hammering away, the pit of her stomach feeling sick as she met his gaze once more. As much as she tried to be confident you could tell a lot from a person’s eyes and she was not confident in herself.

“This is your home, you shouldn’t in any way not feel comfortable in your own home and I do not wish to be the cause for that.” Biting her lip slightly as she hesitated for a moment, “If you would prefer I not be here… I can leave.” It was quite the bold statement; she had no idea on where she could even go or how long she would last fending for herself but at the same time she couldn’t disregard his feelings. No matter on if she was harmless, where she belonged and which family she was from she completely understood his side of things.

There was a sense of fear creeping up on her but that was because she had heard his words on deciding where to send her. What did that mean? Surely, she would return home the minute her memories returned, or her family claimed her. Although the hope that her family would claim her was fading fast. The sooner I regain my memories the better…

Looking down at the barely touched food she didn’t know what else to say, what else to show him that she meant no harm and was just here to figure out who she was. Regain her memories and hopefully start to live a normal life once more, well that was if she even had a normal life. She didn’t know and that was scary.

[Rogue Sloth]

When Iris said she agreed with the king, Cas looked back down at the food on his plate. It was hard for him to listen to her pander to his father when Atlas was being so cold toward her. Having lived in the culture of the monarchy all his life, he knew she was being shrewd by indulging the king’s skepticism—if she openly challenged him, he could have her kicked out or arrested—but that didn’t mean he liked it. His father was being cruel in his accusations. There was no reason for him to frighten her when she had already been through so much. A small piece of him understood that caution was necessary for the royal family, especially with a group of rebels threatening to usurp the throne, but he wished there was a kinder way to go about it.

He exhaled quietly and lifted another forkful of pasta to his mouth. Sometimes he felt like he’d been born into the wrong family. Even when he was a kid, the message had been drilled into him that he needed to be stern and pitiless with everyone in Aspiria or he would be used or betrayed. He had been told to emulate his father, who was the epitome of a worthy leader. However, he’d never been able to detach from his emotions the same way that Atlas could. As much as he tried, he’d always had an empathetic heart and a bent to trust that people were naturally good. It was why he dreaded becoming the next king. Sure, he knew all the head knowledge about how to run an empire, but he wasn’t confident he had the strength of will to handle making some of the hard decisions he’d seen his father commit to before—like the way he was handling Iris now.

When she suddenly offered to leave, Cas looked up from his plate in unbridled surprise. He didn’t know if she had made the suggestion because she was making the king uncomfortable or if she was uncomfortable, herself, but he did know it was a bad idea. Choking down the bite of food in his mouth, he interjected quickly, “That’s not necessary. You can stay here until you can go back to your family—”

“Caspian,” his father intoned warningly. “Until the day you’re crowned king, I make the final decisions around here. Do you understand?”

Cas winced at the harshness of his father’s voice. “Yes,” he muttered, shuffling his feet beneath the table as he grew nervous for what the king was going to choose to do with her.

Atlas nodded, satisfied, before he turned back to Iris. “Excuse my son’s outburst,” he apologized, dabbing at his stubbly chin with his napkin. “However, I did permit you to stay here until there is somewhere else for you to go, so there is no reason for you to leave any sooner. As long as you abide by the rules I trust Caspian has already informed you of, you may sleep in the room you’ve been assigned.”

[sukikyoufu]

Iris glanced over at Cas when he choked down the bite of food in his mouth, the way he interjected quickly was kind because she knew he wanted her to stay here. He was genuinely concerned for her wellbeing and it was nice to know that she had someone who did. However, she didn’t think him coming to her defence would go down well with the King, she could sense his unease with her being here and she didn’t want him to think Caspian was interested in her as that would only make matters worse. She was sure of it.

Wincing at his words she heard the warning tone of the King, warning his son that he did not make the final decision and as much as she wanted to tell Caspian it would be okay, she didn’t dare speak. It was not the right time to voice anything let alone express her concern for Caspian as she was sure his father would see it as something else.

Looking back up when she was addressed once more, she heard the apology for Caspians outburst, she didn’t think it was necessary to apologise but she assumed it was just another way for him to make a point. As much as she wanted to slump down in her seat, hide from what she considered to be quite the stern man she kept herself straight knowing that if she did slump it could be considered rude. That was the last thing she wanted to do, there was no way she would be rude not when she was sure her life depended on it.

Smiling she nodded politely in acknowledgement to his words on his son’s outburst, she didn’t think it needed an apology but who was she to question him. “Thank you, your highness, Prince Caspian did inform me of the guidelines of me staying here.” She had remembered he spoke of the rules, curfews and such which she did not mind one bit. After all she had a bed to sleep in and she didn’t really want to jeopardize it as she really had nowhere else to go until her family called for her or she regained her memories.

Placing down her cutlery neatly on the plate which symbolised she had finished she reached out to the glass of wine that she had yet to touch with dinner. Taking a sip, she could feel the smooth liquid run down the back of throat and it had such a strong taste, it definitely wasn’t something she had tasted before which made her wonder on if she had ever drunk before. Not having her memories and trying to figure out who she was with each new experience was tiring and she was ready for it to be over. Placing the wine glass back down on the table she glanced towards Caspian wondering how he felt, this dinner hadn’t been a lovely get together and she couldn’t help but wonder what his life had been like growing up.

Is it always like this? I shouldn’t ask, that’s far to personal…

[Rogue Sloth]

From the start, Cas had known that dinner with his father would be uncomfortable, but this time, the line had been crossed from tense to miserable. He was chagrined that Atlas had reprimanded him so openly in front of Iris. It had been completely unnecessary, especially since his father hadn’t even disagreed with him. All the king had done was force him to keep quiet so he could be the one to tell her she was welcome to stay with them instead. It had been a power move and nothing more.

He focused on finishing his food—and downing the rest of his wine when his father wasn’t looking—since Atlas clearly didn’t want him to interrupt his discussion with their guest. He had determined by now that when his father had said he was going to eat with them, he’d really meant he was going to interrogate Iris while his son was expected to sit patiently off to the side. He supposed he should have known how the meal would turn out before it had started though. It wasn’t the first time he’d been hushed when the king had been more interested in the other people sitting around them. He was only the center of Atlas’s attention when he was studying the skills he needed to take over as the next monarch.

“Good,” his father nodded approvingly when Iris confirmed that she had been told about the rules she was expected to follow. “I trust that they will be simple enough for you to follow without any issues.” Like always, he was at his most content when he was being shown respect. Sometimes Cas wondered if he invented some of the more outlandish laws in the country just so the citizens would have to prove their loyalty to him more often. It wasn’t out of character for him to do something like that.

The table lapsed into heavy silence when the king ran out of questions to prod at their guest with. Cas sat back in his chair with his brown eyes fixed on his polished plate, waiting for his father to finish eating his portion so they could all leave. Even though he had practically chugged his glass of wine, he couldn’t really feel the effects of the drink alongside the hearty dinner he’d just consumed. As soon as he was free from the dining room, he intended to go straight to the bar to have something stronger.

It took about ten more minutes before Atlas finally set his silverware down and rose from his seat. He had only finished about half of the pasta and three quarters of the lobster tail, but that was to be expected since his medication stifled his appetite. “It was a pleasure meeting you, Iris,” the monarch said, though his face displayed no mirth. “If you regain any memories of importance, I expect that you will tell me right away.” He stepped away from the table while a servant hurried over with his cane. “Caspian, don’t forget that you have another session with your tutor in the morning.”

Cas cursed inwardly, knowing his father had caught on to his plan already. “I won’t,” he assured him. It was honest enough. He wouldn’t forget about his lesson; he just might not show up in fit condition to learn.

Atlas departed from the room, and the prince sank down in his chair with a groan. “Sorry,” he apologized to Iris, dragging his fingers through his hair in a stressed manner. “He’s always that high-strung.” A few more servants appeared to clear away their dishes, and he got up from the table as well. “I completely understand if you want to turn in early, but if you’d rather, I’m going to get a drink at the bar and you’re welcome to join me.”

[sukikyoufu]

Looking up when Atlas addressed her again, saying how it was a pleasure to meet her she assumed this meant he was going to leave. Not long after she watched a servant grab his cane to assist him with walking and she moved to her feet catching on that she was right; he was going to leave. Thank god. Bowing to him once more she smiled softly keeping her head bowed as she took in his words, I’m sure it was. Thinking to herself she raised her head straightening herself up from the bow she gave to the King. “It was a pleasure to meet you also your highness. I’ll be sure to notify you of any changes to my memory.”

Should I? What if I find out about my family, surely, I can just leave? Although his words early… decided what to do with me. I don’t know…

Glancing towards Caspian as they spoke about his session in the morning, she would wait for the King to leave before she spoke to him but gosh, she felt like she needed a harder drink. That had been the most intense dinner she had ever attended. Hearing him leave she couldn’t help but let out a shaky breath, hand moved to her heart as she shook her head before looking at Cas. “Wow… that was quite intense.” She tried to smile; a nervous chuckle left her lips as she looked at the wine glass, she had only drunk half of. Picking up the glass she finished off the drink unsure on what had really happened at dinner, it was hard to digest everything that had gone on in that short space of time.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to cause you this much trouble.” Smiling as she picked up her crutches and moved towards Cas, even though the King had left it was hard to forget him. “As much as that was tiring, I’d love to join you at the bar.” A stiffer drink was needed and even though the glass of wine was something she hadn’t tasted before she could tell something stronger would ease off her troubles.

“I still have some time before my curfew.” Teasing him gently she didn’t want them to suffer with a stiff awkward conversation, even though it seemed like the King had tried to put a damper on things she didn’t want that. “You’ll have to show me the way of course.”

Before moving out of the room she placed her hand on his arm smiling, “Thank you though, for standing up for me. I hope I did everything right.” Removing her hand, she steadied herself once more on the crutches making herself comfortable before she started to move towards the door, glad that dinner was over, and they can move on to something a bit more enjoyable. However, it still worried her, that one comment that the King had made, decide what to do with me? I’m sure it was nothing… I hope it was…

[Rogue Sloth]

When Iris commented that the dinner had been intense, Cas winced. He had been hoping his home would be a safe haven for her until she recovered her memories, but his father had successfully destroyed that image in less than an hour. If it wasn’t for the fact that she had nowhere else to go, he wouldn’t have been surprised if she requested to leave before the sun set. After all, who would want to stay in the house of a monarch who clearly didn’t want her around? Atlas had been unnecessarily hostile with his accusative questions. She was clearly just a girl from the capital who had hit her head and nothing more. There was no reason to mistrust her.

“It’s not your fault,” he assured her quickly with a shake of his head. Glancing over his shoulder to make sure his father had traveled far enough down the hallway that he wouldn’t hear them talk, he dropped his volume slightly as he explained, “Since the rebellion started, he just thinks everyone and everything is out to get us. Even the staff and guards have to go through months of background checks before they can start working for us. I’m pretty sure the only reason he even agreed to let you in was because Dr. Emett confirmed your amnesia. If you knew who you were, he wouldn’t trust you either.” It was also why the king had sent away the rest of the family to another estate and halved the number of servants in the mansion. The less people there were, the easier it was for the paranoid monarch to keep tabs on everyone.

When Iris said she would go with him to the bar, Cas brightened. Though their reason for wanting to drink wasn’t the most exciting, he was glad that he’d have some company. Most of the time, it was just him and whichever bartender was working that night, watching reruns of games while the latter fed the prince cocktails whenever he emptied his glass. She would be much more fun to spend the rest of the evening with.

“Gladly,” he returned her teasing with a playful smile when she said he would have to show her the way. However, when she rested her hand on his arm, his expression wavered slightly. The lack of distance between them for that brief moment derailed his thoughts and made his heartbeat quicken with uncontrolled eagerness. He silently reprimanded himself, even though he knew trying to tame a crush was pointless. He couldn’t stop himself from being attracted to her no matter how hard he tried.

Maybe it’s not such a great idea to get drunk tonight, he cringed at the thought of losing his inhibitions and making a move on Iris. Not wanting to make her even more uncomfortable than his father already had, he internally vowed to pay attention to how much he drank, so he wouldn’t do anything he would regret later.

“Someone had to,” he shrugged at her grateful words. “If my dad doesn’t have any pushback, he tends to just steamroll over everyone. I didn’t want to watch him do it to you too.” His brown eyes flicked to her blue and then away again, and he cleared his throat. “Anyway, I need a drink. The bar is over here.”

Leading her down another hallway, Cas brought Iris to a room that had been designed to look reminiscent of a sports bar with flat screen TVs scattered around the walls and plenty of seating in a variety of barstools and booths. If it had been filled, it would have made an enjoyable spot to watch games with friends; but like the rest of the mansion, the space was empty aside from the bartender, who scrambled up from the booth he had been lounging in to take his place behind the counter at the first sight of his prince.

“So, what do you think?” Cas turned to her with a grin. “Great place to unwind after sitting through an entire dinner with my dad, am I right?”

[sukikyoufu]

“Is there a medal for I survived the King?” Iris couldn’t help but chuckle as she tried to brighten the mood, she couldn’t have been the only person on the other end of quite some accusatory questions. There had to be other situations like that, he was the King after all, so she was certain others had dealt with it too. Hopefully she had suffered the worst of it, and she didn’t have to sit through another uncomfortable dinner. It still concerned her on the fact that she did not want to share her memories with the King, he had told her to share anything of importance, but should she really tell him? She had no difficulties with sharing with Cas but the King… well she didn’t want to think about it.

Following him along to the bar she was quite excited at spending some more time with him, time that wouldn’t be shared with the King. It also made her realise just how big this place was, there was plenty of different hallways that led to other things and she was sure she could get lost here if she wasn’t careful.

Moving inside the room she looked around and couldn’t believe how it looked like a sports bar. It was strange to think that although they were in his home it didn’t feel like it. She could picture the room being filled for a party, friends having a laugh. Having a drink and enjoying the company of one another. At the same time, she wondered on if he even had parties here, she doubted the King ever went on holiday so she couldn’t imagine Cas throwing a house party like a normal kid would. “So, Prince Caspian… come here often?”

She just couldn’t help herself and she began to laugh as she spoke the words, it felt so good to be laughing once more and be rid of all that stiffness that had been there at dinner. Plus, it was nice to wind him up, even more so knowing he was a Prince. It was all the more exciting to tease him, but she knew it wasn’t just about the teasing. It was also because of the crush; she knew she was attracted to him and no matter how much she tried o ignore it and push it down it still managed to creep up on her. It was stupid, she couldn’t remember who she was let and a part of her wondered if she had any relations before she lost her memory. She couldn’t act on it, plus he was the heir to Aspiria and she highly doubted she would have any sort of approval from his father.

“This is amazing, I can hardly remember dinner.” Grinning she moved inside and looked around, seeing where she wanted to sit. Picking one of the booths close to the bar she settled herself down placing the crutches to the side she beckoned Cas over to join her. “Although I’m not sure what I drink really. I don’t think I’ve ever tasted wine before.” Tapping her finger against the table she hadn’t recognised the taste of wine when she had it with dinner, maybe she wasn’t a wine drinker?

[Rogue Sloth]

“My God,” Cas rolled his eyes when Iris teased him by putting emphasis on his title again. “I’m starting to think I should have told you I was a servant.” Though he was only joking, he couldn’t help but imagine what that would have been like. Of course, the charade wouldn’t have lasted long, since his father had come downstairs to eat with them before she’d even spent one night at the mansion, but it might have been fun while it lasted. He enjoyed the perks that came with being the heir to the throne, but he’d also liked visiting her in the hospital when she’d had no recollection of who she was talking to. It had been relaxing to step off his metaphorical pedestal for once and talk to someone as an equal. It was too bad it was over now.

Following Iris over to the booth she had picked, he sat down across from her and folded his arms on the table in a laidback posture. From behind the counter, the servant on shift eyed them quizzically. Usually when the prince stopped by to have a drink—the king hadn’t even shown his face in this part of the castle in over a decade—he went straight to the bar, and he was almost always alone. It was strange for him to bring someone else here, especially a woman, and take a seat in a booth. However, the bartender still had a job to do, so he overcame his curiosity and stepped out to take their requests.

“Really?” Cas raised a brow in surprise when Iris said she’d never tasted wine before. “Are you sure you’re of age?” Though he was just poking fun at her, he did find it odd that she didn’t recognize wine. The tart drink was served at every formal event he’d ever been to, dinners and parties and whatever else the high borns in the capital wanted to put together. He probably drank it at least twenty times a year. “Maybe you preferred red.” That was the only explanation that made sense to him. The dom perignon that had been poured with their dinner wasn’t a favorite of everyone. It was an expensive bottle, but it had a sharper taste than the sweet red wines that some people favored.

“Your Highness,” the bartender greeted his prince with a courteous bow when he approached their table. “What can I get for you tonight?”

“Scotch sour,” he replied without a second thought. After a long and tense dinner with his father, he knew he wanted something that would take the edge off right away.

“Of course,” the bartender dipped his head in a curt but polite gesture before turning to Iris. “And for you, madam?”

Cas glanced at her as well, taking on a contemplative expression. “Do you remember what you liked to drink at all?” he asked. “If you want, Martin here could make you a few small samplers, so you could see which ones are familiar to you.”