Chapter 1: Invitation

"Emma?"

The princess glanced up from her desk, her hand lowered as she put down the soft brush.

She smiled, "yes, Lily?"

Her Lady-in-Waiting held out a sealed note, "it's a letter from the Kingdom of Alaok. It's addressed to you, but we've never associated with them at all. I have no idea why they would send a letter here."

Emma stood, taking the note. "Well, I guess we'll have to see why, won't we?" She smirked playfully as she broke the gold-colored seal, unfolding the fine paper.

To Princess Emma of Iridium,

Hello, Your Highness. I know we do not have much of an acquaintance, due to the distance between our kingdoms, but I hope that will not stop you from putting this letter down.

It would be my honor to invite you to my kingdom, Alaok, to compete for my son, Prince Jax's, regard, and ultimately become his wife. You would be staying in a luxurious guest room, complete with all necessities, although you are free to bring whatever you would need to feel at home.

You would be staying for a month, so my son can get to know each one of you. Yes, each one. Twenty girls have been invited, including you, so it would be safe to suspect that nineteen other girls will join your company. If you happen to accept, that is.

You would be free to roam the castle grounds, if you do so wish, along with other rooms in the castle, for example, the Library. You may go into town, if you have a suitable chaperone. Do not feel that you would be trapped.

If you do not desire my son's regard, then feel free to stay here, anyway. I am always wanting to have new acquaintances, and I have no doubt that you would be a fine one to have.

Above all else, I'd say it would be a great adventure for you. Women of your stature do not have many chances to leave their own kingdom, so a chance to travel far I'm sure would be able to entice any princess.

I do hope that you will accept, Your Highness. If you will, then please sign a letter of consent, along with your father's signature, back to me. If not, then kindly send your refusal. My opinion of your kingdom will not change should you refuse, there is no danger of angering me or creating a foolish war.

I await your reply, Your Highness. Please respond within five days, for the move-in day will be the first of May.

King Jacob of Alaok