Villainess Of Hearts

Disputes were a norm and it couldn't be avoided, Alexander Harstmichdt was aware of that and yet his patience was wearing out a little. The young man rested a hand on his temple for a moment as he tried to listen to the discussion of the Kings from other Kingdoms. Even up until now, he couldn't get used to such talks and conversations.

It somehow made his 'chats' with the Queen of Hearts even more pleasant.

And that was already a feat on its own.

He had some complaints. The King of Spades couldn't care any less for any dialogue, he was only interested in meeting with the Queen of Hearts. And that was something he had wished to avoid, he fought the urge to frown at the thought. But they were simply one of the Kings that he had to reach out to and the other two were also a handful in their own way.

The King of Clover, Ivan Nordskov seemed willing to cooperate but it only appeared to be that way on the surface level. Taking notes of wonderful spots, giving suggestions and talking about hats—it seemed like that they were actively trying to interrupt and they were persistent at such actions while maintaining the most ludicrous of smiles. They were egging him on to call them out and make himself a fool for even trying to start a conversation.

And finally the King of Diamonds was just unwilling. Too selfish and concerned of his own benefits and they couldn't even see that forming relationships with other Kingdoms were necessary than what was already pre-established before. It was even a wonder why they had even given the Queen of Hearts a present. Was it some kind of bribe? He didn't like it either but he had no say about the matter.

Alexander Hartsmichdt had no idea at the moment on the meaning of such a meaning behind the gift as the Queen of Hearts had already chastised him just yesterday? The Prime Minister was still busy getting Rosalyn Lockhart and whoever wished to be part of the conversation now. Francis le Diamant was sullen at the moment, upset that the meeting was yet to be finished about this matter as they conferred with his attendant and unwilling to associate with the other.

Meanwhile both Ivan Nordskov and Alfred Villeuce looked like they were one smile away from engaging in a combat outside of the Royal Conference Room or even within the premises itself. The latter was the one who seemed more annoyed than the former who had the most pleasant smile on their face—and yet it sent shivers down his spine.

He didn't understand why the Queen of Clovers had to end up with that man. Or why she had to be the Queen in the first place. His shoulder ached for a moment, as if feeling an imprint burn and sear across his skin as he simply observed the scenario. He wouldn't hop into conversations needlessly.

He only intervened when it was necessary.

That was how he was able to survive in this castle for the most part. He was doing his best to be the King that the people wanted, to be able to stand and even be half as good as the Queen of Hearts. It was a difficult task, a gargantuan one honestly. And soon enough the sound of doors opening came and he looked up to see her.

His Queen.

She stepped into the room and commanded everyone's attention as the Prime Minister announced her presence and the Queen of Diamond's. Without even saying anything, she gave an elegant bow and proceeded to make her way to his side, because it was expected to be. He could only be a little relieved that she didn't look particularly upset.

Except for that time he had tried to reach out to her.

But of course that may have only been a little foolish idea of his as the Queen occupied the right seat next to his own, her lips were pressed together into a firm line as she eyed him from the corner of her eyes, "Why did you even invite me?" Her voice came out in a soft hiss that was uncommon to her usual loud voice that called for everyone's attention—and most often ordered for someone's head to be lopped off. "Couldn't you have handled this on your own, Your Majesty?"

Speaking with such an ill-tempered tone.

Only honest words could hope to sway such a caged heart. "What is a King without his Queen?" He dipped his head for a moment before lifting his gaze to meet her own. Eyes like bejeweled rubies narrowed at him as she pressed her blood red lips together and looked away, averting her gaze towards the other present.

A moment disappearing. 

Bittersweet.

The Prime Minister took his seat at the left side and cleared his throat, a reminder to continue the conference. Clearing his throat and his mind for a moment, he inclined his head and addressed the crowd, "My deepest gratitude for the Queen of Diamonds and the Queen of Hearts for joining us today, it is a shame that the Queen of Spades and Clover were unable to confer with us today but the meeting must continue. If my Prime Minister could so kindly recount the matter?"

Blyke Edelweiss had just finished getting the Queen of Hearts but now he was being asked to do this? That was the feeling of slight vexation that the King of Hearts got from the Prime Minister as he stood up and fixed his collar for a moment. "The reason for this gathering is to discuss—"

Somebody yawned within the Royal Conference Room.

Loudly.

Alfred Villeuce had the audacity to cover his mouth, pulling his hand down after finishing the yawn that they were obviously feigning,"Let me put it succinctly for everyone here.." He had captured the attention of the people and stood up to address the Queen of Hearts, "Your Majesty of Hearts, I want your House to provide my desired weapons and then I'll actually consider the King of Heart's little trade agreement. That's all there is to it, so what do you say? Will you agree to my terms?"