Hit and Miss

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“You look beautiful, princess,” Harper said, standing in the mirror behind Amelia. Her shoulder-length hair hooked behind her left ear, but the majority swooped over in a voluminous cascade to the right. A simple, subdued red dress hung off her small frame. Bunches of excess fabric clumped up where she didn’t quite fill the article.Amelia tore her eyes off Harper and gave herself another once-over. The plunging neckline of the forest green dress drooped, tailored for someone with a more than modest bust. Thin straps held the garment, exposing her arms, shoulders, and upper back. Sunlight from the open balcony door caused her fair skin to glow.“I was starting to think that it was a little much.” The ankle-length pleated skirt fluttered as Amelia twisted her hips. She turned her attention back to Harper.A rosy color flushed Harper’s cheeks, and her eyes flicked up to Amelia’s. “It’s what Queen Kamarrah wanted. You should respect her wishes.”Amelia humphed and cracked a smirk. “Is that the only reason you approve of it?”“Wha-what do you mean, princess?” Harper stammered and tried in vain to hide her deepening blush.“I’m messing with you, Harper.” Amelia spun from their reflections and smiled. “I can always count on you to say the right thing.” She closed the gap between them, gathered the smaller woman up, and hugged her.“Princess, please.” Harper lifted her hands to push away, but they stopped on Amelia’s hips. The rigidness in her posture dissolved. “I am glad you appreciate my opinion, but I’m just doing my job.”“Loosen up.” Amelia squeezed Harper before she pulled back. She smiled down at the shorter woman. “You look pretty yourself.”Harper’s eyes lit up, but a frown worked its way onto her face. “The dress doesn’t suit me.”“Once I’m done talks with the Queen, we’ll go and get better-suited dresses together, okay?”Amelia expected Harper to avoid eye contact, but she locked eyes with her. “That sounds wonderful.”The door rattled as someone pounded on it. “If you’re done faffing about,” Jonas called, “the queen is ready for you.”“Quiet, Jonas.” Amelia swept past Harper, headed for the door. “You’re jealous because there’s two beautiful women in here, and you’re not allowed in.”Jonas snorted. “Please. I’ve seen enough of you over the years, and I don’t want you corrupting Harper.”“No I—”“She is not corrupting me, Jonas.” Harper came up beside Amelia and yanked the door open. “She can do as she pleases.”A shocked expression came over Jonas’ face, but he reeled his reaction in a moment after. “Fair enough.” He adjusted the tall collar of his black silk vest and glanced away. “Just hurry up; you wouldn’t want to keep Queen Kamarrah waiting.Thuds echoed in the immaculate hall as Jonas strode away. Amelia watched him go, surprised by the extravagance of his garb. His charcoal boots were polished to a mirror-shine. Elegant, form-fitting trousers caused him to walk a little stiff. Jewelry—of all things—adorned his wrists and neck. The entire getup ran counter to his usual attire.Harper cleared her throat, drawing Amelia’s attention. “Shall we?” Amelia nodded and took off after Jonas.Pure white stone pillars rose to the vaulted ceiling. The polished marble floor sparkled in the sunshine from the skylight above. Portraits, paintings of domestic and foreign landscapes, and depictions of battles or celebrations lined the spotless walls. Potted ferns sat beside the dozen benches around the perimeter.Servants ran about the place, and guards were posted at every entrance. Amelia smiled at a pair of soldiers as she and Harper passed them. One nodded while the other scrutinized her with intent eyes behind their soot black helmet. Matching scale mail finished out their armor, obscuring everything but their eyes and hard-set mouths.Jonas hovered by the entrance to the dining hall. He fussed with his out-of-character attire. “Could you be any slower?”“What’s with the clothes?” Amelia asked, grinning.“It’s Demetevler Escort what the queen provided. I see you didn’t have any reservations with yours.” Jonas folded his arms across his chest and glared.Laughter bubbled out of Amelia. “I wouldn’t say that.”“I think it looks nice,” Harper said.The frown on Jonas’ face lifted. “Let’s go, so I can get out of this.”A servant in an outfit like Jonas’ led them past the guards to a broad table. Yellow and white flowers poked up out of long-stemmed vases spaced every two feet. An assortment of cutlery marked spots for five people: the head, a spot to the right, and three on the left.“Please take a seat,” the man said, gesturing to the trio of empty chairs with a sweep of his arm. “I will inform Queen Kamarrah of your arrival.”Amelia took the chair closest to the head of the table and leaned back. Her body sank into the lush padding, and she sighed. Jonas plopped down beside her as Harper eased down into the last spot. The smell of cooking meat drifted in. Amelia’s stomach grumbled. She hoped the food would be ready soon.“Princess,” Harper said, leaning forward past Jonas, “have you ever met the queen before?”Amelia shook her head. “No, I haven’t. Our countries have always been friendly, but this is the first time I’ve ever set foot in the palace or seen her in person.”“My father once fought alongside the late king when I was a kid.” The chair beside Amelia creaked as Jonas shifted around and glanced over at her. “Do you remember that? Your father was there, too.”“Vaguely,” Amelia admitted. “I remember you being excited when they came back because your father brought you a souvenir…although, I can’t remember what it was.”“My first spear.” A smile clung to Jonas’ face. “It was made from some special wood that can only be found in this country. Supposed to be three times as durable yet half the weight as the stuff from back home.”Harper turned her attention to Jonas. “What happened? I’ve never seen you use a spear.”Jonas chuckled. “I broke it.”“Oh, I remember now.” Amelia propped an elbow on the table and grinned. “You wanted to see if the tales were true, so you rounded up some of the other kids and had them hang off the ends. Took five of ‘em, but you found out it wasn’t indestructible.”“I never did get another souvenir from anywhere my father went. But,” Jonas glanced around and shrugged, “now that I’m here, I could get myself whatever I want.”“You’re not going to use our funds to buy some junk you’ll break or lose in a week tops.” Amelia tried her best to keep a stern face, but her amusement seeped through the cracks with a flash of her teeth.A flat stare came over Jonas’ face, and he stared Amelia down. “You sound like my father.”“I’ll take that as a compliment. He’s a responsible man”—Amelia nudged Jonas with her elbow—“unlike someone else.”“Yeah, you’re real responsible, Amelia.” Jonas batted away her arm. “No way you’d waste tons of coin or time on frivolous things.”“Can you two please not argue at our host’s dinner table?” Harper asked. She chewed on her lip and stared across the table at nothing.Jonas tilted his chin up and eyed Harper. “Nervous, Harper?”“No.” Harper’s nostrils flared as she sucked in and exhaled a sharp breath. “Well, yes.” She shook her head, slumping in her seat. “Besides the princess’ family, I’ve never met any other royalty. And I’ve never been included in a dinner.”Amelia brushed Jonas aside. “We’ll have to change that.” A smile slid onto Harper’s face, and she nodded.The doors at the back of the hall opened. A tall woman dressed in an elegant rose gold dress entered the chamber. Her warm umber skin—exposed further by a plunging neckline and playful leg slit—glowed in the light. She studied her guests with a confident, inquisitive gaze. Amelia’s heart skipped a beat at the woman’s beauty.“Welcome to my home, Princess Amelia von Heiden. It is Otele Gelen Escort good to finally meet you.” Queen Kamarrah stopped beside her chair. As a servant made her spot ready, her inviting brown eyes sized Amelia up. “I hope you find your accommodations acceptable.”Amelia prevented her eyes from wandering and smiled. “It’s a pleasure, Queen Kamarrah. Everything has been stellar. You have a beautiful home.”“Ah, thank you, my dear. I’m happy to hear that.” The servant slipped back and bowed, allowing Kamarrah to sit at the head of the table.A young man about the same age as Harper swept up beside the queen. She spared him a brief glance before she gestured toward the chair across from Amelia. He frowned but took the seat after a quick man saw to it. His dark eyes cast over the three guests, lingering on Jonas. A sourness remained in his expression.“Princess Amelia,” Kamarrah said as she glanced to her right, “this is my son, Prince Harim. Do not mind his poor attitude, I’m trying to get him more accustomed to proper meetings, but he’s stubborn.”A smirk quirked Amelia’s mouth. “No worries, your majesty. I understand.” Her gaze shifted to the prince. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Prince Harim. These are my friends Jonas and Harper.”Harim nodded but made no further acknowledgment, settling back into his chair.Kamarrah sighed. “Better.”Movement at the back of the hall caught Amelia’s attention. Servants carrying platters filed in, a heady mix of sweet and savory aromas preceding them. Amelia’s stomach grumbled. They didn’t eat more than scant rations for days, and she craved far more. A joyous smile slipped onto her face.“I apologize for the lack of food upon your arrival, but I do hope this makes up for it.” Something bumped Amelia’s foot, but she paid it no mind.The attendants set down dish after dish, filling the table. Steam rose from most and carried intoxicating scents. Amelia didn’t recognize many of the dishes once unveiled but that didn’t stop her mouth from watering. While she devoured the cuisine with her eyes, the queen’s gaze remained fixated on her.A warm plate was set before Amelia. “Go ahead and take whatever you want,” Kamarrah said. “If you’re unfamiliar with anything, don’t be afraid to ask. I won’t take any offense.”Amelia, Jonas, and Harper pilled food on their plates until no more would fit before Kamarrah or Harim moved an inch. The hunger Amelia had appeared to be shared by her friends. She smirked and shot them a sidelong glance. Jonas’ expression turned stoic, but Harper couldn’t contain her excitement.No sound but the clink of silverware filled the hall for a moment as Amelia, Harper, and Jonas stuffed their faces. The food all tasted so wonderful; she couldn’t stop herself.“I’m glad to see that you and your friends enjoy our food,” Kamarrah said, popping a bit of chicken into her mouth.“Oh, yes, it’s superb.” Amelia grinned. “I think I’m going to enjoy my stay here.”Something—a foot—touched Amelia’s ankle and brushed up her calf. “Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like, and I’ll see you get it.” An impish smile split Kamarrah’s face.Amelia’s heart beat faster. She didn’t expect Kamarrah to come on to her—not that she minded. The woman was gorgeous; age unable to dull any of her beauty. However, Amelia wasn’t used to people in Kamarrah’s position flirting with her. Then she remembered her dress and how the queen had picked it out for her.Sticking out her chest so that her cleavage became accentuated, Amelia slid her leg closer to Kamarrah, giving her better access. “I’m sure I’ll think of a couple of things before I leave. Thank you, your majesty.”“Business, then?” The question hung for a moment as Kamarrah’s toe caressed Amelia.“Yes.” Amelia shook her head and tried to remember the real reason she had come. “Have you received any reports from the south about the current situation?”Kamarrah Balgat Escort nodded. “I have. Dimin is ready for war, and your father is at the front, trying to keep the peace.”“He doesn’t expect it to hold. With what forces he has and the garrison of our allies, they won’t last when Dimin decides to break the treaty.” Amelia swallowed and straightened her shoulders. “I was sent to request your aid.”“Things must be serious if he sent you instead of sending a missive.” Despite the seriousness of conversation, Kamarrah continued the slow, gentle stroke of her foot up and down Amelia’s leg.“It was my decision. I wanted to make sure things went smoothly.”Kamarrah smiled and locked eyes with Amelia. “Your father is lucky to have such a dutiful daughter. I will consult with my generals, but I do not see an issue in lending troops.”A burning sensation welled up on Amelia’s cheeks. “I appreciate that, your majesty.” She performed a half bow in her seat. “We will be thankful for anything you can muster.”“Mother,” Harim cut in, “isn’t there are conflict going on in the east that has many of our troops tied up?”“Yes—”A retainer approached the table beside Kamarrah. “I apologize for interrupting, your majesty, but there is something that requires your immediate attention.”“It appears I am needed. I’m sorry, princess Amelia. We will have to continue this conversation later.” The chair slid back without a sound, and Kamarrah stood. “I intend to hold up my side of things.”Kamarrah nodded to Amelia and co before she turned to leave. She strode with grace and purpose, and Amelia had a hard time not following every sway of the queen’s body with her eyes. A sigh huffed out of Amelia. She would need to wait for an answer to her request. At least she had good food and company.“If you’ll excuse me.” Harim’s seat scraped against the floor, and he hurried after his mother.“I wonder if everything is all right,” Harper managed, staring at her half-empty plate.Amelia focused her attention back on her friends. “Don’t worry about it, Harper. Let’s just enjoy ourselves while we’re here.” The rest of her meal called to her, and she dug in. The servant bowed and left Amelia alone in front of the door to Kamarrah’s chamber. She adjusted her clothes, pulling the opening down to the top of her abdomen. Excitement danced down her limbs. No doubt the queen wanted more than just talk, or she wouldn’t have invited her so late in private. A smile tugged on Amelia’s lips.Amelia entered. She cast her gaze about the giant room, finding a massive, canopied bed, chairs, a desk, several chests of drawers, countless paintings, and metalwork decorations, but not her hostess. A warm breeze ruffled her hair and dress. The door to the terrace sat propped open, and she stepped toward it.“Ah, Amelia,” Kamarrah’s voice drifted in, light and airy. “Join me.”The ten-by-ten balcony overlooked the moonlit lake to the east. Amelia drank in the beautiful view, but her eyes soon wandered. Kamarrah stood, wine glass in hand, on the far side. She wore her outfit from their dinner earlier. Amelia couldn’t help but lose herself in the exposed contours of the queen’s curvy body.“I hope you like your wine sweet.” Kamarrah padded over to a small table with a bottle and empty glass. The alcohol poured easy, and she offered it to Amelia. “I apologize for cutting dinner short.”“Oh, it’s all right. I understand the duties of a queen are demanding.” Amelia took a swig. Fruity flavor burst to life over her tongue, and she smiled.Kamarrah’s lips curled. Her dress swished as she rested her elbows on the thick marble railing. “The rest of my evening is available. I would like to get to know the Heidenian ambassador better.”Excitement sparked through Amelia, and her heart hammered in her chest. “I have nowhere else to be.” She swept up beside Kamarrah, staring out at the clear night sky.“Splendid.” Kamarrah emptied her glass and cocked her head to the side. “How’s the wine?”“Sweet. I reckon we’ll need more, though, if you have plans for us all evening.” Wine burned its way down Amelia’s throat, and she set the empty vessel aside.Warmth spread from Amelia’s shoulder and hip as Kamarrah pressed up against her. “I’m glad I didn’t misinterpret any signals at dinner. I feared I might’ve been too forward.”

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