[center]Alexander James Francis Maximillion Nightingale[/center] 



"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.