To Be a Princess in Demeria

[Prince Riordan Carlisle]

Riordan had had very little opportunity to interact with the lovely young princess Katya. Tristan, he knew, was absolutely fascinated with her but Riordan admittedly did not know why. It was not that Riordan didn't think her attractive or amenable, it was simply the fact that he didn't know her. It was time to change that. If Riordan was to be King of the land and Katya one of Demeria's new princesses, he would have to know her. Some men preferred to keep women out of the picture, but the Crown Prince did not particularly feel that way. Selena was to have a role. Why couldn't Katya?

Thus, Riordan invited the Princess to join him for a horse ride. It would just be the two of them, plus a pair of knights to keep them safe and for propriety to be observed. The last thing Riordan wanted was some horrid rumor spreading about the two of them. That would have been made things rather awkward! The ride was scheduled for just after breakfast, while the crisp air of the night clung to the encroaching day. The Prince was dressed in simple, but finely made riding clothes. His currently checking his horse, preparing him for the ride ahead.

Princess Katya Fyodorov

[Princess Katya Fyodorov]

Katya was somewhat aware that she would have to meet the Crown prince especially considering the new arrangements that were in play. She had been happy initially but now she wondered about it at times. She loved Tristan but could she really stand to live in a country where she would be hated for what another did? His words always consoled her despite the words not being needed. Katya was sure she could handle it and she would not back out of anything as Nikolai had done. So long as Tristan held love for her, she really cared little of others opinions of her. She would show them her worth. Demetri being around also served to make her feel safe. She was sure he would allow no harm to come to her.

As was her preference, Katya was dressed quite simply when it came to her riding clothes. Were it not for the air about her and the way she conducted herself one would think she was any commoner off of the streets. Not to mention the material used for her clothing. Approaching the prince with the horse she often used during her time in Demeria, Katya curtsied as was due to his station. "Good morning, Your Highness," she greeted. She was nervous but her tone did not betray it. Besides, it wasn't the fact that he was the Crown prince that had her nervous, it was the fact that he was Tristans brother.

[Prince Riordan Carlisle]

As Katya made good her approach, Riordan turned to study her. She was dressed simply, but they were going riding. This was not a time for wearing frilly clothing and look their best. A horse could throw you, get you covered in mud and sweat and what would you have to show for it. No, he perfectly understood Katya's appearance. She was a lovely young lady. He could understand Tristan's physical attraction, but what about the personality? That's what he wanted to find out.

"Princess," he greeted warmly, moving closer to her, "I'm glad you join me. Thank you for doing so." A hand was extended toward the mare that had been prepared for her, "Will you need assistance in mounting? It's a great day for a ride, if you ask me." While her brother had proven to be an embarrassment to her kingdom, Riordan was taking great strides not to hold that against her. After all, she had nothing to do with it.

[Princess Katya Fyodorov]

"It is my pleasure, Your Highness," she stated sincerely. "I do not require assistance and I quite agree," she said in response to his words as she expertly mounted her mare. She had been riding since before she could even remember so it was no hardship to do so. Katya was making note of everything so that she would be able to pick it apart later. She was very certain that there was more to this morning ride than what was being let on. After all, she had already been in Demeria for quite a while and it was only after the whispers of a betrothal between her and Prince Tristan that he was seeking her company. Trying to discover if she was worthy perhaps? Forcing herself to not think that way since it would only serve to make her more tense than she needed to be, Katya willed herself to relax and enjoy herself. "I am ready whenever you are, Your Highness," she informed him as she waited for him to lead them off.

[Prince Riordan Carlisle]

Watching her mount without assistance amused him quietly, but he did not allow it show on his face. He was not surprised to see her do such a thing. Like his brother, Katya came across as a determined, if not stubborn young woman. Clearing his throat, he mounted his own steed and with a nod, led the way out of the stables. For the time being, he kept the pace light and easy, wanting to be able to converse with her while enjoying the ride.

"Horrible situation, isn't it?" Riordan simply came right out with it. He was tired of using flowery and appropriate language. "I can't even begin to fathom how and your family must feel about this entire matter." He glanced over to her, curious as to what her reaction was going to be.

[Princess Katya Fyodorov]

Following the princes lead, she had to give a wry smile as he got right into the heart of things. Easily keeping pace,, Katya was grateful that he was being so blunt. She did not do very well with being subtle though she tended to be able to do so if it was required. For the most part, she said exactly what she thought or else held her tongue. "Very much so," she stated in agreement. "It is a hardship, that is for certain, but I am sure my kin and I will persevere. I, for one, will not run as he had. For duty as well as my own reasons," she stated, thinking of Tristan in her latter statement. "So, rest assured, I can handle the barbs and the spiteful looks that are beginning to be cast our way. If that is what it takes to secure this alliance that will help the people of my country then so be it. I would gladly walk on coals for them." Realizing that she had rambled on a bit there, Katya gave the prince a sheepish grin. "My apologies, Your Highness. If you asked him, I am sure your brother would inform you that I get quite chatty about things I feel strongly about."

[Prince Riordan Carlisle]

In some ways, Katya's words were a relief while in others, they made him concerned. Katya had a spine to her, which meant she would be able to stand up to the slings and arrows cast her way. Yet, there were some in Court that felt Sarkozsans would have no right to countermand their insults. Arguments were like as not going to break out. Riordan already knew that he was going to have to put out many fires in the months to come. Perhaps, then, this was the first real test of his potential leadership.

"No need to apologize for speaking your mind. From what I've heard of your father, you've certainly embodied his spirit and strength." From what he knew, Anatoli was a big bear of a man with a personality to match. How would that bear be reacting to news of his son's failure? Only time would tell, of that Riordan was certain. "I'm pleased to hear that you'll stand up for yourself because you will have to. I'll tell your sister the same thing."

He paused for a moment, "You are aware that my father is considering a match between yourself and my brother? What do you think?"

[Princess Katya Fyodorov]

Katya had to smile at the comparison to her father, a man she greatly admired, not only as a father but as their countrys leader. She was certain that her father must be gravely disappointed. Katya would not be too surprised if the man showed up almost on Demetris heels. Especially if he felt that his presence would help quell the more puffed up people of the court. Nodding as he mentioned that he would be saying the same to Anya, Katya took a barely noticeable breath at the next question asked. She said nothing but her facial features betrayed the quiet hope that she felt.

"I am aware of it. I think it would be good but I also know that the path through it will be long and difficult. People will not want me marrying Prince Tristan. I would have to prove that I will not be as easily cowed off as my brother was. That I am worthy of him. Every moment of hardship will be worth it if it means that I get to stay by Prince Tristans side as his partner," she finished off, giving the prince a sidelong glance and wondering if he was aware of his brothers feelings for her or her own for Tristan. Well, he likely would have to be quite unobservant to not be aware that there was something more than friendship between them considering the state of color on Tristans face whenever he spoke to her as well as her own.

[Prince Riordan Carlisle]

"You would not have to prove yourself worthy, but your entire nation," he stated with a neutral expression on his face. "I don't envy you the road ahead, but I can see that you are not going to be so easily deterred, either. I will offer what support that I can, but I can already the statements and issues of protest over any union between our two nations." He put a hand on his chest to indicate himself, "I do feel that there can be something." And Riordan wondered if that was going to be enough to push it through. Time would tell.

Suddenly, Riordan chuckled and glanced over to her, "But by the Triad, I did not think so much would have changed in a scant few months. This year of my life has truly felt like a whirlwind and I have a feeling that it is far from over."

[Princess Katya Fyodorov]

"Oh, I'm aware but my entire nation is not here so I am one of the representatives that the court will base their judgements on," she stated, just as neutral as he had. She wasn't too bitter about it, considering that the same was true at any time, not just a huge incident such as Nikolais abandonment.

"Ah, if people were to give up too easily, where would the challenge in life be? Besides, my peoples well being lies in this as well. Giving up is not an option," she said in response to his statements. "Your support is much appreciated, your highness," she stated, thankful that Riordan seemed to be along the same lines of noble spirit as Tristan. She supposed she should have expected it, considering they were brothers but that was a weak thought for her at the moment considering Nikolais behavior. "I can, as well. It might even be put off the negotiations table. If it does come to pass then a long betrothal would be smart considering my age as well as Prince Tristans," she said, running the suggestion that Anya had mentioned off her mind as it crossed it.

Katya had to laugh herself at what Riordan said next. "Nor did I. When I arrived, I was simply of the mindset that I would get to learn about a new country while Nikolai would be getting to know his future bride. I never imagined he would prove to be as cowardly as he had and I certainly didn't expect to fall in love with one of the princes of Demeria myself," she said, unable to help speaking candidly nor able to prevent the slight pink running across her cheeks at the thought of Tristan.

[Prince Riordan Carlisle]

Well, she was honest, that much was certain. Riordan briefly worried that she might be an entirely too honest person. Honesty was a good quality, but honesty could also get one hurt or worse. He chose not to comment on it for now, especially when he saw the blush blooming cross her cheeks when she spoke of her brother. Ah, young love. Riordan remembered what that was like. He wondered if he was falling in love himself. A faint smile formed. "He's a good man," he nodded, "My brother, that is. It would be a good match, but as you pointed out, who knows what the future may bring. As painful as it can be, practicality sometimes have to be put above the heart."

He decided to shift the topic from matters that might prove painful. It was clear she was determined to get what was best for her people and that she was angry at her elder brother. On that note, she and her sister were very much alike. Yet, he wanted to know more about her. "Back home, what do you enjoy doing? I'd like to get to know you a bit better."