Summary: A princess in your own right, you were sent by your father to marry the King when you became of age. The waiting had extended indefinitely as you waited in your holdfast hearing tales of the philanderer you had as a betrothed
Entertaining yourself among horse riding, sword training, and all the books and advisors you can have, you wait patiently. Losing all hopes, you send him a nude painting of yourself, confident that he will never see it, nor it will interest him, oh how wrong you were.
You were called upon court, to be finally betrothed to your King
Pairing: King!Bucky Barnes x Princess!FemReader (very ambiguously described)
Warnings: +18, Angsty (sometimes), Smut, Fluffy (very), Violence (Not towards reader), sexy timesss, Bucky is kind of a philanderer sorry, infidelity, sword fighting, cursing, war, and all that comes with it, tags to be added by chapter to avoid extreme spoilers
Chracters involved: aahhh all of them, Steve, Tony, Sam, Sharon, Nat, Sarah, Vis, Wanda, and I won´t say more because THE VILLAINSSSS it´s going down
Word Count Total : TBD
Notes: This is what happens when I rewatch The Tudors
I´m excited to publish this one, I´ve been working on it for quite sometime. I really like how the prologue turned out
*I made the Header and the spacer, with pictures I found on google! If you want to use it, I'd be honored, just let me know :)
Prologue
Chapter 1: the trials
Part 1
Part 2
Chapter 2 : All new
Chapter 3 : Just you and me, and mistress makes three
Chapter 4 : The wedding
Chapter 5 : The Night
Chapter 6 : Let them eat cake
Chapter 7 : The coronation
Chapter 8 : Your birthday celebrations
Chapter 9 : Trouble in paradise
Chapter 10 : The mess I made
Chapter 11 : Their royal highness
Chapter 12: the calm before the storm
Chapter 13: When I lost you(coming soon)
I´m calculating there would be like 30 chapters! we have a long road ahead! wii
Chapter Summary: You fall into account of what being married to a King entails. You tried to keep yourself strong as you try to figure out who are your friends amongst your wedding preparations
Pairing: King!Bucky Barnes x Princess!FemaleReader (very ambiguously described)
Chapter Warnings: Explicit sex escene, (nothing detailed), a little cursing, otherwise everything is tamed
+18 please
Word Count (Chapter): 4.7k
Notes: I decided to mix it up a bit, two DC characters will show up in here, minor really minor characters, not to do much with the story but I decided to have a little fun :) And I think the chapters and future ones to be lengthier, but with more content and “scenes”
I am sorry since it appears I dreamt the word "Holdfast" and that it was a synonym for "castle" hahahaha im so sorry I will replace the word with something else
“You are the guest of honour” he said, he smiled and rose from his throne, he went down the two steps necessary to join you.
And he was finally in front of you. After all this years, he was finally in your hand´s reach, but even then and there, he seemed untouchable
Time seemed to stand still as you both stared into each other's eyes, he seemed to be peering at your soul, and you just were able to gaze upon his face.
He was tall, as tall as Steve, you had to tilt your head to look him in the face, his handsome face, his barely grown beard, his sharp blue eyes. You realised you were gawking, you probably looked like a little kid seeing something for the first time in wonder.
“Thank you so much, your majesty” you said clearly, trying to regain your footing, “For receiving me in your Kingdom, for establishing relationships with my country”
“I believe it will be my pleasure,” he said with a wicked smile that made your knees weak. You felt the gaze of everyone in the room on you, and that made you feel more weak if possible, the tension was palpable
You peeked at your future husband, seated at your side, he was most kind to offer you a seat beside him, in a smaller throne, as tables were disposed in front of you
“You are even more beautiful than your portraits” he said looking straight at you
“You are most kind, your majesty” you muttered
“The painting you had send last was exquisite” he said, a smiled you dimed as wicked on his face
“I must say I apologize for my boldness” you said with heated cheeks
“You have nothing to apologise for” he said, he directed that same wicked smile. Did he expect things from you because of that painting? did he think you were this wild passionate creature? when in reality it was almost the opposite. You knew he will appreciate your chastity, without it he won't even marry you, but it scared you he now may have a vision of you that escaped the truth
“You must remember his Grace” your King presented, drawing back to reality from your daze, in front of your table stood a young man, still bowing to you “Oliver Queen” he was the ambassador of your country in his Majesty's court, you knew this much
“Your Highness is my pleasure to make your acquaintance” he bowed to you both. He wasn't the same man that used to visit you in the early months of your stay in the castle, he was young and handsome, “I'm afraid we haven't met”
“It's an honour” you muttered, “To meet a fellow countrymen in such royal and important endeavour, such as being an ambassador of our country”
“Your highness you are too kind” he said, “I look forward to working with you” as he bowed again and left to mingle with the crowd.
“You are skilled in pleasantries” the King admired
“Is that a good thing or a bad thing?” you asked innocently, he chuckled and your tummy tingled at the sound
“Is an admirable trait for a Queen” your eyes met and you feel like lightening had struck you
The day after the banquet you were called upon by the King, as you met with him, his council, and your Kingdom´s ambassador as a representative of your father.
“Your Majesty” you muttered as you bowed to him
“You highness” the people in the room but him bowed to you, as you regain your foot and started walking towards the big desk separating you from your King
“We are here to discuss our wedding” he said with a small smile, “Does that please you?”
“It does your majesty” you said shyly, all the eyes upon you
“I came as a representative of the princess´ father” the ambassador muttered, “And to give for the entire event, a sum of 100.000 crowns” the King seemed surprised, as you did, it was a hefty sum
“Very well then, the event shall be grander” said the King
“The royal couple shall be married in the cathedral in a fortnight” The Vision started. Above the table was displayed a map of the city, so he pointed to the very center of it, where the cathedral stood. You were concentrating on what he was saying, and you felt the gaze of the King on you. “The union to be directed by the Archbishop, after the ceremony, you shall commence a royal parade, back to the castle and already married, to start the celebrations in the Castle´s main Throne room” there was a silence, as you pondered looking at the map, not knowing what to say
“Do you have any thoughts, your highness?” asked the King. He put you in the center of everyone's attention again. And you were speechless
“I would love to gave my opinion in smaller matters” you muttered, finally looking at him, “such as details”
“Do you have something in mind?” asked The Vision with a soft smile
“Well, for example, I would like an open carriage for our procession back to the castle, so the people could see us more clearly” they all looked surprised at this
“Would you like to gaze upon the people?” asked James
“I would, I think it is important, it is a royal wedding, they shall be part of it to some extent” you muttered. The King seemed please as he smiled and nodded
“Then we also shall prepare baskets to be distributed among the people” said the King, “A ceremonial basquet, containing bread, wine and cakes, for the people to celebrate our marriage along with us” you smiled widely at the King's idea, so did The Vision
“Both his majesty and her highness are so thoughtful” he admired “this shall be an affair that will be remembered for years to come” You smiled at the King and he smiled back “Now there are smaller matters that would like both your opinions into” he said, “such as the banquet´s main dishes, and the flowers that shall decorate the Queen´s hands, and the cathedral, and the great hall”
“Queen?” you asked without thinking, and the room seemed to stay still
“Oh, I am sorry” the chancellor stuttered, “I thought… well” you felt guilty as you put him in the spot
“As soon as you become my wife you are to become Queen” the King seemed amused, “even before the coronation” you felt your cheeks get heated
“I am so very sorry” you lowered your gaze. You knew what was going to happen, but it being said that casually had made you realise it
“You have nothing to be sorry for” said the King
“I shall use his majesty´s signature flower” you said firmly, “White O'Hara roses” this seemed to please everyone in the room, “And they shall be complemented by any white flower you can find to fill such spaces with their beauty”
“A very fine choice indeed” celebrated the chancellor
The afternoon passed like that, discussing small matters regarding your wedding
When the reunion was coming to its end, you were machinating a way to stay with the King, maybe the two of you together and alone, you haden´t had the occasion to talk to him privately, and you wanted to.
But as everyone was departing the room, your father´s envoy called for your attention, frustrating your plans
“I need to speak to you, your Highness”
“Very well”
“Your Highness” all the little hairs in your neck frizzled at the voice of the King interrupting you two
“Yes, your majesty?” you said hopefully
“Today we celebrate his Grace´s wedding” Tony´s Wedding, “I´ll have you by my side on the place of honour” you couldn't help but blush
“I´ll be my honour” you said smiling widely, and he smiled you in kind, you bowed to him to exit the room
You were followed by the ambassador towards your private chambers, and when you entered, still in the company of your ladies and guards, you directed yourself to the small table disposed for this kinds of affairs
“What is this all about?” you asked
“His majesty the King, your father, has send me a letter filled with his words for me to communicate to you”
“Please” you offered him a seat, as you both took it near the ever fired hearth
“His majesty would like to remind you of your obligations, he wants to make sure you remember your homeland when you assume your duties as Queen” of course this was it all about, “He also would like to remember you that even if you don't have your mother to discuss this affairs, he wants to make sure you make your new King happy, and fulfill your duties as a wife as well”
“You offend me” you growled
“That was not my intention your highness” he said, swallowing hard, “I'm just communicating what he has said”
“If he had something he wished to communicate to me, he could have written to me himself” all this time, the absence of your father has been brewing in the back of your mind, and it was transformed in anger towards him, “I imagine that he doesn't intend to attend the wedding?” he nervously fixed his collar
“His majesty is occupied at court, and he is sorry he will not be able to…”
“Of course he is” You cut him off, and you were taking that anger and focusing it in this poor guy, “Very well, there are duties in wedding ceremonies that are responsibility of the father of the bride ”
“He would like me, his representative, to deliver you to your husband in the altar” he said
“If my father isn't here I shall walk alone” you said, you gave a look at Wanda who was standing next to your guest, she understood immediately and touched the ambassador's shoulder softly
“Your audience with the princess has come to an end” she muttered, he looked at her and then at you. He nodded and took his foot to leave your chambers after he bowed to you.
That wasn't smart, he was the only link you had with your homeland, but in this time it didn't matter, you were alone, in a strange court, with no member of your family to fraternize with.
You were surrounded by many people as you ever been in your life and yet, you had never felt so lonely and abandoned
All the ladies giggled and moved around you as you all were preparing to attend his Grace´s wedding. You insisted your ladies could stay here during the preparations, and it had been a great idea, since you were all acting like you were old friends. And you adored the fact they were slowly becoming more comfortable around you, and even befriended you
Wanda has chosen for you a pink and golden gown to wear and decorated your hair with a golden thread.
All your ladies were wearing their finest dresses and you yourself had lent them jewelry to use, so they would look their best for the occasion
Duke Anthony Stark was the wealthiest man in the Kingdom, and this event would be remembered by ages to come.
You loved dancing, it brought you joy
But in today's celebrations you could only look at the dance floor.
You were in a new court where you didn't know anybody, and you were betrothed to the King, so no dance partners for you in the near future. James was seated on his high chair beside you, and didn´t seem to make any attempts to join the dance floor, so you sat there by his side.
You looked at the happy couple, Tony´s wife, Pepper, seemed lovely, she hugged you tightly when you congratulated her after the ceremony, and you promised that you´ll send for her to have maybe a tea party or something of the sort, to get to meet her better.
The ceremony had been a sutil affair, they did not marry in the cathedral, but in the castle´s church, it was smaller but grander in their decorations. Lady Sarah had explained to you that they had to make a smaller event, with your own royal wedding being so close. And you felt almost guilty for it. But Tony seemed enormously happy, he compensated greatly with the richest banquet you'd ever seen and the wine that flowed freely.
But now in the middle of the party you sat there, at the side of the king, growing restless and bored, as the King would kill any attempt at a conversation you would start with him. Until, your apparent knight in shining armour, Steve, appeared in front of you
“Would his Majesty mind if I have a dance with her Highness?” you heart jumped inside your heart, you loved dancing and were aching to join the dancefloor
“Of course I wouldn't mind” he said, almost bored, he looked at you and you smiled widely, nodding. You jumped off your seat and took the hand the Duke was offering you.
He spun you around without a second thought and before you knew it, you were both dancing at the unison of the song, a style they had taught you in your many lessons and that you knew from the heart. you giggled as sometimes the duke would go “off script” and spun you around at his liking, laughing himself
“Someone told me you liked dancing” he whispered in your ears
“I do, but I must say I don't have many opportunities to do so” you admitted, “The King doesn´t dance?”
“He doesn't” he said
“A pity” you muttered
“Maybe because he hasn't found the right partner” he said and winked at you. You looked at the King and you found him staring at you, his blue eyes seemed to not miss a single thing you were doing nor a word your were speaking
“Do you think he´ll dance if I ask him to?”
“He is a gentleman and would never left a lady standing” he said with an encouraging smile
When the song finished, you bowed to Steve and he did the same, and you took a long breath and walked towards him. You took the liberty of going until you could touch the wooden chair he was sitting in, because you didn't want to invite him out loud, in the case he would deny you
“My lady you were not amusing yourself?” it hurt the way he said it, like he was annoyed
“Your Majesty” you called, and his eyes left the dancefloor to you, “I was so, but I was wondering if you would like to dance, w-with me” you curse yourself for your stutter and for being so nervous, but as you saw him chugg the last of the wine he had in his goblet, his gaze returned to you
“Very well” when he stood from his seat, the entire court went quiet. Everyone seemed to be expectating what the King was going to do. Even the music had stopped
He took your hand in his, and keeping them high, you both advanced to the center of the dancefloor as everyone made themself out of your way
“Play a volta” he demanded, and you froze, as that dance was deemed to be lude and passionate, but you indeed knew how to dance it. You looked fleetingly over the room and everyone was looking at you, but you didn't have anytime to think about it as the music started and it was your turn to dance and twirl towards the King.
You prayed you didn't trip, or that you wouldn't look as passionate as the rhythm of the song would suggest, as you lifted your skirts and gave your back to the King as you kept dancing. He grabbed your waist with one of his hands and you shook with emotions as he started dancing alongside you. You felt relieved as he took the lead, but the closeness to him would make you feel so warm and nervous you felt butterflies inside your belly and your heart pounding soundly in your chest. He didn't take his gaze off of you, as his other hand was also placed in your waist as he lifted you fleetingly from the floor.
You felt the room gasp when your feet touched the ground again, but didn´t have the mind to pay any attention off what was happening around you, as you took his majesty´s arms with your hands so you could lean backwards using the heel of your shoes as the song required, he grabbed you once again and your chest collided with his when he helped you up. You twirled together a couple of more times, as he pushed you away to be stopped by your intertwined hands, and then he dragged you against him again. When the song was finally finished his face was so close to yours you could feel his thick breath on your cheeks, and his nose almost touched yours, and your eyes connected in a way that calmed you.
The world seemed to stay still, and it only returned to normalcy when the entire room began to clap his hands, and you finally let off the breath you didn't know you were holding.
The king leaned in and kissed your cheek, and he parted from you, taking all your air with him. As the people kept clapping, you stood there in the middle of the dancefloor, not entirely sure that the whole thing had happened in reality, and not in your darkest and most passionate dreams.
Wanda woke you from your haze as she congratulated and hugged you.
Even if you just got here to the capital, you were a fortnight away from your wedding, so as the costum entails, you were to be sent away to a castle which was referred to as “The Queen´s Palace” where all the Queens prepare for their weddings and their coronation. You were going to be sent there tomorrow.
The next time you saw the King was going to be at your own wedding, so a need rose on your chest to see him after the dance you shared. You felt that a connection had been made, so as soon as the party was wavering, you started looking for him, for you to talk about your future life together. You didn't quite know what you wanted from him, nor what you were looking for, but it seemed only right to see him before you were married forever
But you couldn't find the King, you haden´t seen him since you danced with him. You wandered through the corridors, until you found yourself wanting to go to that thin tower you found on your little expeditions with Wanda from which you could see the entire town and the surroundings of the castle
But as you turned a corner, you heard moans and panting, as you couldn´t stop yourself from going forward and towards those sounds
It was the King, ramming towards a lady, one of your ladies in waiting, lady Sharon, her legs bared and clasped around his hips, she moaned loudly, as he growled against the skin of her neck, were your ruby necklace shined with the moonlight that escaped the nearest window. You were a virgin, but you weren´t an idiot, you knew perfectly fine what they were doing, they were fucking franktickly
“I'm going to miss this,” she said. You undo your last three pases and hid behind the wall, so they won't pick upon your presence
“Only for a couple of weeks” he responded back “until I can get back to your arms”
“Why did you have to invite her to court?” she responded. You froze where you stood “why do you have to marry her?” she said with such hatred in her voice it made you wince
“You know why, I need an heir, this kingdom need a Queen, pressing matters”
“But we will continue to be together won't we?”
“Of course my love”
You couldn't hear anymore, you backed and walked away
You remembered vividly the harsh teachings of your governess, the one his Majesty´s had sent to you upon your arrival in the Kingdom. The love between a King and a Queen, true love, had always been rare, so scarce. You were to be his Queen to make alliances between your kingdoms and bear heirs, and that was it, if you grew your alliance into romance, that was a great feat indeed.
And Kings, historically, had always had whores at his disposals, mistresses, and it was fool of a Queen to come between them, you had more pressing matters to attend, she would say, you had to be smarter, more dignified, he was your husband, and had to conform with that, and the crown he has bestowed upon your head, you were a Queen
So why did your hand clung to your chest when you found incredible and crippling pain? You wanted to grab your heart from your chest and ripped it off, so it would stop hurting. Is that what your future held? Your husband only visiting your chambers to make sure you bear him heirs and then back to their whores? Who was the true comfort and solace of the man that was supposed to be your husband?
Tears clouded your vision as you tried to put as much distance between the pair and yourself, as you walked the corridors hastily and blindly
Your senses were so clouded with pain and sadness, you didn´t see the figure until you stomped upon it
“Your highness” marvelled Steve, but when he saw what you only thought was a horrid face filled with tears, his face fell
“Duke Rogers” you said meekly, wiping your tears with the back of your hand
“Are you well? What has happened?” he took the liberty of grabbing you by your shoulders softly, so you wouldn't escape him
“Nothing My lord, I stomped upon a statue and dust came upon my eyes” really? you could do better than that”
“Your Highness please” he begged you, you recuperated your demeanor quickly
“It seems you´d always glimpse the worst parts of myself and I should be most embarrassed to ask you for forgiveness, as I show myself upon you in the most ghastly ways” you said automatically, royal jiberish you called it
“Your Highness if something or someone has inflicted sorrow against you I must know” he insisted
“It's nothing” you said, releasing yourself from his grasp “please don't insist any further” you tried to out-walk him but couldn´t as he was taller and his legs longer than yours, and you didn't have to, since behind you through the corridor, appeared the King, and Lady Sharon. You didn't turn to greet them as Steve took turns to look upon you, and the pair, understanding what was going on
“Your Highness” said Bucky, calling upon you to meet him
“Your Majesty” you responded bowing, but not daring to let him see you cry
“I came upon her highness” said Steve “she was looking for you” he said Looking at the King, as you looked at him in anger
“I just wanted to ask if It was proper to only take four ladies to the Tower, instead of the usual 5” you muttered
“Why would you do such a thing?” asked James
“I want to be comfortable in the ride in the carriage” you responded “with my ladies”
“I thought you were going to ride there” said Steve, as he sounded surprised and disappointed
“Well, I´ll become Queen, I suppose I must part from certain things” you said, turning to look at him
“Then, do what you must” said James
“Good” you rose your head, to sport your dried tears “lady Sharon now that you are here, I relieve you from the stay in the Tower” her face fell, as you started walking again, without presenting your respects, and away from the King, and the pair
You haven't even close the door behind you, as the King himself entered, making everyone bow deeply
“What was that all about?” he asked, he looked annoyed
“Of that issue I discussed” you said meekly
“I don't believe that for a second” he responded, relaxing his tightened face
“The next time we see each other will be to present our vows and bond for life, I wanted to see my future husband, to talk, but I couldn't find you anywhere” you stopped as you let him complete the rest on his mind
“I'm here now” he said, taking your hands between his “let's talk”
“No matter” you retrieve your hands from his hardened ones, as his face looked at you as his eyes looked tortured “I took a good look of what my married life would be like” you whispered
“What do you mean?” he asked, he looked genuinely worried
“That I completely understand my obligations and responsibilities as Queen, and as your wife” like, standing your mistress, you wanted to say. You vowed in front of him “If you excuse me Your Majesty, I´m weary and tired, I have a long trip in front of me tomorrow”
“Of course” he said, his voice strangled, he vowed to you and left the room
As the guards closed the door, you couldn't help the tears that fell your eyes
“Lady Wanda, would you tent to me?” you asked, your voice sounded strangled “my ladies you are welcome to go back to your chambers” the three ladies that remained bowed, and left the chambers
“What happened?” Wanda asked, as she caressed your hair
“Help me get out of this clothes” you said, as you both entered your bed chambers. She rapidly undid your corset, as you felt you could breath, you a sob came instead
“What happened?” she asked again
“I wanted to talk to the King, but I found him deep in his mistress, promising her he would ever return to her” you said “I feel so humiliated”
That night you fell asleep in Wanda's arms, as she caressed your hair and shush you to sleep
The next morning, you were all set up to start the trip to the Queen 's Palace. Wanda had woken up with your breakfast and a cheery smile, as all your ladies, (but the Lady Sharon) also joined in the happiness and shower you with praises as they helped you get dressed and grab the last of your belongings to start the trip
Before noon you were outside, preparing your horse. It was the thing you wanted to do yourself, and didn't allow help. You had built a special relationship with your horse, Plum (as you called him) and nobody but you could saddle him and ride him.
But as you were entertained adjusting the straps to your saddle, you hears a horse approaching
“Good Morrow ladies”
“Your Grace, you are to escort us?” Lady Wanda asked Lord Steve
“Indeed” you looked at him, while adjusting the mount of your steed
“My Lord you don't have to” you said, smiling upon him
“Our King wanted to make sure you arrived there safely, there is none that he trusted more than me”
“I'm afraid we'll bore you” you responded
“Nothing you´ll ever do will bore me” he said with a wide smile “You are riding after all” he said as he stop his horse right next to you
“Indeed, I´d hope I´ll give me clarity, for the fortnight to come” you muttered, as you mounted your horse, and now could look him in the eyes, as you were in the same height
As you started the caravan, you and Steve leading it after only four guards in front of you
“So, the lady´s thing, dispatching one of them to make space in the carriage, was a ruse?” he asked, amused
“Is it bad of me?” you asked sincerely “to not want to gaze upon the face of my future's husband's mistress? as I prepare for my own wedding?” you met his gaze as he was looking at you with pity
“I don't think so, Is not” he muttered “And I will speak to his majesty”
“You will not do such a thing” you warned “for I´m afraid she is his love, and I´m only but his duty”
“He will love you” he said “as the Lords and Ladies of the court already do”
“I really hope so, because I wish not to be lonely”
Chapter Summary: You had raised his King´s curiosity, now it was your turn to entertain him through his envoys
Pairing: King!Bucky Barnes x Princess!FemaleReader (very ambiguously described)
Chapter Warnings: Talk about non fictional characters, talk about war, very tamed chapter
+18 please. (but just for future explicit sex scenes, battles and war)
Word Count (Chapter): 3.1k
Notes: Our reader seems to be jumping trough hoops, but don´t worry, she will jump them all.
I couldn´t help but use real history characters for a conversation she holds with a duke about military strategy, but just that, I don´t menton places, just names for context.
2nd trial
You saw the Duke of Malibu get off his chariot
You were ready to receive him, because he had sent word of his arrival before him. He was of his Majesty´s council, he was the council man of war. He was close to the King, and as Lord Wilson has taught you, he gazed upon your form on the painting alongside the King, meaning he was a close friend to him as well.
Now his family had always been close to the Royal House, his father before him was a councilman himself of your Majesty´s father.
Having a warning of his visit had allowed you to prepare your castle accordingly, he was of a great family and that came with expectations, so you had the help of your entire household to put the castle upside down, cleaning it to his last nook, and replacing everything that needed replacement.Your favorite room, the summer room, had received an extreme renovations to host the Duke
The House of Stark was a famous one in this and many realms, as being a family that started as blacksmiths, but rather quickly they began to make machines for war besides swords, gaining renown and the favors of the King
It wasn't a coincidence that after all these years, barely receiving visitors, you received the second one without a fortnight from your previous encounter with Lord Wilson. The King was putting you through trials, curious about your behavior and your person.
“Your Royal Highness” he said with a deep bow
“Your Grace” you greeted
You had to be carefull, every one of these men, and according to Sam, they were in high regard to King James´ heart. But every man was different, and each and every one of them would come back with different tales of you, your grace and specially your doing
You guide him and his small court inside, as Lunch was ready for your guests
“You must be famished” you started, “may I offer you lunch? we are serving a Boar that I hunted myself”
“Nothing would please me more” he muttered with a smile
You looked at him over your goblet filled with honeyed wine, you tried to change your wine cellar a little bit with your second visitor, the way he moved, and talked told you he was worlds away from Lord Wilson. His clean boots would let you know a hunting trip wouldn't cut it with him, nor would your physical skills impress him, he was the council man of war was he not?
“May I ask what her highness finds so amusing?” he asked, as you were smiling without even realising it
“I´ve been meaning to ask your Grace” you started, like you were sharing a secret with him, “Did you come up with the idea of the armour for horses because of the late emperor Antoichus the Great?” his eyes widened and glimmered
“You know of Antiochus?” he asked, as he drowned his words himself on a sip of wine
“Well, I personally preferred Hannibal's tactics with his elephants, but the army of the Emperor has to be properly admired and studied, don´t you think?”
And that's how you won over Duke Anthony Stark
He was quickly to get rid of his squires and companions, to have you all to himself, except for Wanda, and a couple of servants that kept pouring you wine, as you took him to the library to show him your great collections of the volumes of military and war strategies
You ended up halfway drunk in honeyed wine, playing chess with him at high hours of the night, discussing military strategies and what went wrong between the wars of the mythical Hannibal and Scipio
He left hungover the next morning, as you let him kiss both of your rosy cheeks, he still smelled like wine as he chuckled and giggled goodbyes, and something on the verge of “Our king is an idiot, I will marry you myself” whispered to your ear
You could only smile and wink at Wanda, who looked more ecstatic and excited than you
At the return of the Duque, all the friends meet again
“So, Stark” said James “what do you think?”
“Marry her” he said with a smile “before the emperor's son himself learns about her and steals her from you”
“The emperor uh?” he asked “the most powerful man in all the known world?”
“I´m afraid if he do manages to steals her from you, he would be unstoppable”
“How so?” Now James was intrigued. Tony Stark was the oldest of his friends, he spoke ill of marriage, he took so long on taking a wife, and even now he was just engaged, yet to be married, and it made him terribly curious about who would change his opinion, his mystery betrothed
“She is of incredible wit, cunning and knowledge about war and strategy, knows so much, studying the greatest generals of our time, as her favorite hobby, as she would confide in me”
“But you are my counselman of war and armory” he said, impressed
“But I'm afraid she has come toe to toe with me, in discussions of such matters”
“Well, Your Grace” he finally call upon his best friend Steve “you will visit the princess, I want your truly and honest opinion, if she is as magnificent as everyone claims, you, at the end of your stay, will extend her my invitation to join us at court”
“Yes your Majesty” he said with a wide smile “It would be my pleasure”
3rd trial
What did the visit of the King's most trusted advisors mean? Why now? was it all because of an stupid painting? it was a bold one, it had never been seen before, such a lude representation of a monarch, had it really meant so much to the King? So why send his men, his lords? Was he testing you? did he want to know how or what you were, sending his friends here, to take histories back with them?
You felt like you were on trial
You thought fleetingly of your father, the letters you´d exchange throughout the years, fewer as the time flew by. He was annoyed, he was upset, his daughter, wasting away in a random castle, instead of marrying the King, you felt like if you had failed your life mission, you were sent as a part of a treaty, to marry the King, and you haven't done so. You had failed. You were a failure
And you couldn't go back home, even if you haven't fulfilled this part of the deal, both nations enjoyed between them treaties of commerce, food, grains, and also ammunitions and soldiers
Were you going to live in that castle all your life? never to see your family again? never married? all alone?
Your horse felt your nervousness, and acting in kind, he galloped through the woods with you on top of him, it was a fast steed, young and nervous just the perfect amount to make him cautions, his hair so black is shined with the lights that fell upon the tallest branches of the trees above you
But then it happened, as he was jumping to avoid a root on the ground, a branch cough your shoulder, making you lose balance, as you struggled to grip it, your leg was caught on another and you couldn't do anything but brace yourself as you fell from the saddle and into the ground
You felt all the air leave your lungs as you touched the ground. thanking it was grass and moss, and not rocks or hard ground
“Your Highness!” a guard yelled behind you, as you heard him unmount to come in your aid, as the other grabbed your horse. With his help you rose to your feet without any problem, figuring you didn't hurt anything
“Are you alright, your highness?” you nodded, still struggling to get air into your lungs. you raised your hand to tell them in a way you were fine, but still trying to regain the air that was drawn from you
You stood slowly, with the help of one of your guards, moving all your sore limbs, a sense of rush was installed in your body, not allowing you to feel any pain, you had fell before, you knew that was a fleeting sensation and you would be more sore in the morning
“I'm fine” you muttered, as you tried to clean yourself for the wetness of the leaves, some still stuck to your clothing “Thank you” you said with a shy smile, as you grabbed your horse from the han
The ride back to the castle was more quiet, at least in your head, you focused on the scenery, the smell of the woods, the feeling of your horse between your legs. You tried to banish those dark thoughts from your mind.
If by the time you turn 20, in a few months, you are not married, you will write to your father, to ask him to go back home
As soon as you entered the estables you jumped of your noble steed, gasping for air, as the last strode had taken all your energy, the warm of your fall dissipating, leaving your body tired, cold and in distraught
You stumbled upon the floor of the stables, struggling to find your foot. Your fall had been tough, but not enough to open wounds on your flesh, and everything seemed to move properly, so nothing was broken, rather than your camisole, and the leather tights you used under your skirt, that was damaged as well.
You drew a sharp breath, your hand instinctively went to your stomach as you tried to normalize your breathing, but it got caught in your chest, when you looked around the stable, and came across a tall figure, standing in the door of the stables on the other side.
He was the most handsome man you had ever laid eyes upon, his tall and impeccable stature, broad shoulders, blonde hair, and gazing blue eyes, his facial features so manly yet soft. His pose revealed a high standard, and his clothing and his coloring revealed the same
You forgot how to breathe
Were you in the presence of the King?
You have never gazed upon your betrothed, not even in portraits, they said he was a very handsome and tall man, was that him?
If it was, in those short seconds that you gazed upon one another, you owed him your respects, but if he wasn't´ he was the one to present to you. You tilted your head, still gazing upon him, as he did the same. His piercing gaze traveled upon all your form, taking you in, as he seemed to be in shock, maybe it was your appearance who caused such, all muddy and ghastly
If he didn´t present his respects, then you had to, and you were about to, you moved softly so he in turn, woke up from his haze, and draw his knee to the floor
“Your Royal Highness” he presented, and you draw a relieved breath
“My lord?” you said, but also asked
“My name is Steven, of the House of Rogers, Duke of York” you walked hastily towards him, and took his hand to help him on his feet. You didn't know if you felt relieved or disappointed that he wasn't your King, but still he had to regain his foot, since as a Duke, he was the highest nobility of the realm.
You remembered your lessons from your governess, the House of Rogers was a noble house, Steve´s father was friends with King James´ father. and so on, for many generations
“It's a great honor to meet you your Grace, I´am most sorry for my appearance” he dwarfed you in size, since when he was in full height you looked directly into his chest
“Your company in waiting was preoccupied, they send me to look for you, your Highness - he said
“I´m sorry then, for my tardiness to receive you, your grace, I suffered an accident in the woods I´m afraid”
“Then I must fetch the greatest physician in the realm to tend to you, for your health” he said quickly
“I´m alright your Grace, thank you” you started walking towards the castle, signaling him to walk besides you “I am most sorry I wasn't here to welcome you properly” you excused yourself, even if you have not received any warning of his arrival
“I am the one who should be sorry” he said, “His Majesty would send me here right away, didn't give me any time to announce my arrival”
“The King himself sent you?” you asked coyly.
“Indeed” he said, looking around but not for long as his gaze kept returning to you. “He is most thrilled with the impressions you had made on his closests friends”
“So he sent you as well?” you didn't intend to sound like an insult, but it did. But you felt immediate relief when he chuckled, instead of taking it the wrong way
“Well…” he said. He walked tall, with his hands clasped behind his back. His blue velvet clothing shone in the afternoon sun. “I am free to say I´m the closest friend to his majesty” you nodded, understanding his words. “And he send me here for, well, to gaze upon you”
“I am supposed to be his betrothed” you muttered, “And he put trials upon me, yet he doesn't speak of marriage” you were being bold, but you didn't care anymore
“His majesty is a cautions man” he said “A king cannot take issues of marriage lightly”
“I understand” there was no reason nor need to fight him over this. You would treat this man as you did the others, find out what he liked, exploit it, and send him on his way with a smile, and maybe some wine. “Well, it's early for supper, but I do want to tend to you and your companions” you would give him what he needed from you, but nothing else, you shall speak no more of what was on your mind, as you gave him a soulless smile
“And we will be honored for it” he said firmly
“If you must excuse me” you said, “I must change into clothes more accordingly for the occasion” you were still wearing your riding attire and you felt the dirt clinging to your body
“Of course” he nodded and you bowed with your head slightly, to turn for the stairs, leaving him there standing
You were growing frustrated at the entire thing, but Steve seemed sweet, and a true gallant gentleman. So you focused on cleaning yourself, and changing into one of your finest dresses, it was blue and golden, like the colours of his majesty, and you smiled at your reflection, as Wanda help you put on your jewels as well
When you went downstairs to met your newest visitor, you found him waiting for you just as you left him, when he saw you come down the stairs, he drawed an amused face, as he offered you his hand to support yourself the last three steps
“You look astonishing your Highness” he complimented
“My lord you are most kind” you couldn't help but blush. As you still with your hand trapped between his, walked towards the dining room, where the food was served
As you were finishing your supper, between faint conversation, Steve dropped everything to look at you, you caught on, and paid him your total attention
“The king would love nothing else but your presence at court, Your highness” he proclaimed, and then you did drop the fork you were holding
You took your time to give him an answer, you pondered in seconds then seemed hours to him, and also for you
You were a firstborn of your house, you were a Princess, and a Future Queen in your own right, but forced on a strange land to marry a King, that apparently had no intention of marrying you, but you discovered there in your own castle, that you were happy, doing whatever you pleased, reading whatever you pleased, in a charming little town. For the first time in your life, in all those 5 years you´ve been secluded here, you realised that you could do whatever you wanted.. You adored your castle, and the people within its walls, who were like a family to you.
And now, you had picked the interest of your King, unwillingly, almost by mistake, and he wants to meet you, only for his curiosity, and nothing else, coming back to a Royal Court? a place filled with unknown people, treacherous persons, that defended their interests and their interests alone? And you were all alone amongst them
You looked at him, directly into his blue eyes
“No” you said simply
“No?” he asked, amused, he couldn't manage to hide that little smirk he gifted you with when he found something you said amusing
“My King seems to want me to make an appearance at court, intrigued by the tales Lord Anthony and Lord Wilson had fill his ears with, I'm certain, he is curious, he wants to see me, meet me, but he does not talk about marriage” he was going to said something, but he interrupted himself “I´m afraid appearing in court as a foreign princess and not as a future queen, seems as appealing to me as shoot myself in my leg with my crossbow”
“She said, what?” he asked, clenching his teeth so hard they might turn to dust
“She said that appearing to court not being anything else but your betrothed sounds as appealing to her, as shooting herself in the leg with her crossbow” the lords close to the king broke out in laughter
“I had told you so, your majesty” said Lord Anthony “her highness is a feisty little creature”
“My King” said Vision, bowing to him, so close to him He was the only one to hear “I understand your concerns regarding the Princess, she is a stranger to you, but may I remind you the necessity of this Kingdom for an heir, an heir of Royal Blood, and the Princess´ Father, King Edward, is growing impatience...”
“I'm aware” he growled under his breath
“It's time my lord, with the rumors of the uprising so close and clear to our ears, you need to strengthen your Throne, and your dynasty”
“Very well then” he said after a long breath, “Steven you must return to her, with my word and the promise of our marriage” the Vision, as he was known, smiled widely and nodded. Steve smiled as well he vowed profusely, before exiting his majesty´s chambers to fulfill his command
Bucky gazed upon the painting of his future Queen, the painting he had hanged on his private council´s chambers, the place he met with his most trusted advisors and friends, only them could gaze upon her portrait
Chapter Summary: You had raised his King´s curiosity, now it was your turn to entertain him through his envoys
Pairing: King!Bucky Barnes x Princess!FemaleReader (very ambiguously described)
Chapter Warnings: Sword fighting, hunting, (hinting, nothing described, not blood, nor mortal wounds described) very tamed chapter
+18 please. (but just for explicit sex scenes)
Word Count (Chapter): 2.4 k
Notes: This is the first part of the first chapter, I try to make the reader as ambiguous as I can, hope you enjoy.
Even if you enjoyed sword fighting with Clint, or your Military Strategy lessons where you could learn about the greatest Generals and Strategies of all times. Riding in the woods was your favorite activity, only you, your noble steed, and a couple of guards going after you, but the best part for you was using pants, just like any other normal person.
You haden´t received a response to your gift from the King. Wanda´s brother, a Royal Guard, had made sure he received it. And you were sure of it, but as you expected, he clearly haden´t seen it, if he had, he would clearly have said something.
Wanda´s Brother was the only connection you have with the King's court. They were both sons of noblemen, twins, but their father had fallen in disgrace, and got himself killed, so both siblings had to make a living how they could. Luckily friends of their family had seen upon them to get them jobs close to Royalty, being yourself, and the King
Sadly everything Pietro had to say was gossip, and not good, the only thing you knew about the King was how handsome he was, and just as a philanderer. He had a favorite mistress, and he paraded her in court like she was his wife, but even that didn't stop him from having ecual relations with anyone he liked, noblewoman and servants, single or married alike. It seemed, the way Pietro told the deeds, that the only way a woman could be part of court was to go through the King first.
That worries you, if the King chose to marry you, you´d be constantly humiliated, it turned your legs to knots from only thinking about it. You knew finding love in an arranged marriage was very odd, but the very thing you deserved and needed, was respect, of which, even now you had little, since he never even wrote you a single letter thanking you for your own letters and gifts.
That's what you liked about your rides, time to ponder about this pressing matters
But as you gazed upon your castle in the distance, you saw horses and carriages outside, the banners on them, the King´s. You gasped as you spoil your mount, to hurry towards the place you knew as your home
1st trial
You reached the back part of the Castle, the back entrance was reserved for servants, but is the one you used the most since it was the one that led to the stables, and to your training grounds.
The stable boy was expecting you, as he helped you out of your mount and took your horse
“Do we have visitors?” you asked
“Yes your highness, but I wouldn't know who they are”
“Thanks” he vowed before you, but you paid them no mind as you hurried towards the castle. Upon your entrance you were jumped by ladies and guards, and Wanda got to your side first
“A lord is here to see you your Highness” she said with a wide smile
“Do we know who he is?” as you reached the door that would take you to the main hall
“Lord Wilson” you barely answered as you opened the door, to face a small gathering of men, leaded by a handsome man, with dark hair and complexion
“My Lord” you started
“Your Royal Highness” he greeted
“ Oh I'm very sorry my lord” you approached him as he paid his respects to you, bowing, you offered your hand and he took it, softly, and kiss it over the rings that decorated your fingers “I did not expect you” you giggled as you looked at yourself, with your hunting attire, you were even wearing pants under your skirt
“I hope I´m not Importune, You highness” he said
“Please my lord, I enjoy visitors, you´ll have to excuse my attire tough, I was riding, it was a beautiful day”
“It was, your highness”
“Lady Wanda” you called, she appeared hasty from the corridor ”would you fix the summer room for lord Wilson?” you asked, she nodded quickly “and please tell Lord Barton to tend to Lord Wilson´s companions” she nodded again, parting to fulfill your requests
“The summer room is one of my favorites” you told Sam “even if it's not summer yet, the light that comes through the windows in the morning is something beautiful to admire”
“Your Highness you are too kind” he said bowing his head
“My lord It's a long way from the King's holdfast” you started, with a pleasing smile “Why don't you and your companions get comfortable? wine and appetizers would be brought to you in the waiting room, as I see myself off these garments into something more graceful” he vowed again, as you moved your head
They always said your gaze was rather intimidating when you proposed it towards that purpose, and today you wanted to use it on purpose. You gaze upon poor Lord Wilson long enough for him to stir awkwardly and uncomfortably in his chair
You had invited him to supper, him being the only nobleman to come in his group.
“You'll have to excuse me my lord” you said, forgetting your unforgiving gaze, drawing a shy smile instead “but I didn't received much visitors during all this 5 years”
“Well, his majesty send for he would like you to know, he enjoyed the portrait you send him” you completely stopped your movements, to look at him, not being able to hide the shock on your face
“He received it?” you managed to ask, the Lord seemed confused
“Of course your highness” your mouth opened in a perfect “o” “you seemed surprised”
“Well” you started “My lord every year for his birthday I send him portraits of me, he never responded in kind, so I thought..“ you couldn't hold it any longer, and you embarrassment came out your mouth in laughter “I thought he never looked upon them” he looked at you amused “So I send him that one”
“It was a very accurate portrait of his highness´ strength, wit, and boldness” said, hiding part of his face behind his goblet as he took a sip of wine
“My lord you are too kind” you muttered, hoping to drown the laughter in wine as well “May I ask who gazed upon the painting?” you needed to know
“His Majesty the king” he started “His Grace Steven Rogers, His Grace Anthony Stark, the young page, and Myself, your Highness”
“Oh” you muttered. Great, that was just great, the King, and his best friends
“Well, I´m glad he received it” you said “and liked it apparently”
“It certainly raised his majesty´s curiosity” you took another sip as you pondered upon his words, his curiosity? he send one of his more trusted men to gaze upon your form, to come back to him with tales of you, to help him make a decision
“His curiosity, My Lord?” you asked, playing almost dumb
“Indeed”
“Does his majesty have thought about honoring our treaty? would he ask me to court to be finally married?” you seemed desperate, you were, but you also needed to know
“That I cannot tell, madam” he responded, as he smiled kindly
“Well I guess I have to keep waiting” you tried to humour him “not that I mind, to this green fields, hunting, riding and reading”
“You are a lady of the most fine abilities” he said with a wide smile
“You are most kind, it would be my honor to invite my lord for a hunt on the morrow” you said “you´ll find that the boars roaming this fields to be manse, and chubby, delicious to eat” you both chuckled at your joke as you abandoned the dining hall
The late hours fell upon you, so you both excuse yourselves to go to your respective chambers
It's been so long since you had hosted an important visitor, at first you'd receive constant visits from the ambassador of your country in the King's court, and also people sent by your father, to visit you and keep you company, to make sure you were well taken care of, but those visits ceased once they saw you weren't becoming a Queen neither you´d be anytime soon.
Your father had more pressing matter to attend, like grooming your younger brother to take the throne, or search a bride for him himself, to establish its always feeble reign, yes, your father wasn't the smartest man, but nonetheless, your kingdom was one of the richest, and the one holding important trade routes on the continent. that made him a man other kings needed to deal with
As Wanda helped you out of your corset, you sighed in relief, knowing that bedtime was close, you were indeed tired, but not from riding or hunting, what tired you most was hosting, being a lady.
“How did everything go?” years of you being together had taught Wanda that they were the only two of you, she was free to ask and tell you about everything in her mind, she was only a couple years your senior, and a girl herself when you were assigned into her caring and loving hands
“He is a nice man” you said with a smile, “easy to talk to, a gentleman and what it means”
“That's good” she giggled as she helped you out of your dress and into your nightgown “do you think that the king sent him?” she asked again
“Oh I'm most certain” you responded with a shy smile, not knowing if it was a good thing, or a bad thing “he basically told me himself”
“really?” she asked, her wicked smile made her way to her mouth, a smile confessing you she was thinking of mischievousness
“And he also revealed to me that the king saw my painting, accompanied by his most trusted friends”
“This is it!” she yelled “he is testing you to see you! to finally marry you!”
“He wants to get to know me first” you mumbled “if he wanted to marry he´d send Sam with the message that I´m required in court”
“Well, but it's his first approach” she said, excited
“Let's see”
The rising sun came fast and unmerciful, and you found yourself deep in the woods surrounding your castle. You felt the burning gaze of Lord Wilson on you at all times, so when he lingered long enough he would ask you questions to maintain visual contact, but you´ll ask him as well.
You'd learn that he was the first of his house to earn Royal Favor, saving the life of the king in the last war, he'd make him a Lord. He had a sister and two nephews, his brother in law had perished in the same war. He had a holdfast on his own, but he´ll normally stay at court, with his sister, in hopes he´d get married himself.
“Do you enjoy the court My Lord?” you´d ask him
“I do, your Highness” he will respond, “I'm surrounded by bright minds and loyal friends”
“That's good to know” you said, smiling shyly at him, liking what he was saying. It meant and it was important that the Kings would surround himself with good people, and judging by Lord Wilson he was
But your attention was drawn elsewhere, 200 feet in front of you to be exact, where a board stood impatient, listening to his surroundings. Sam stood still and silent, as you pointed at him with your bow and arrow
After hunting two boars each, Lord Wilson and yourself retrieved deeper into the forest, where you found a clearing near a River, and you sat to have lunch, with things your guards brought you. You served more Boar, fruits and cheeses, and you finest wine brought from your homeland
“No he didn't!” you couldn't stop giggling, as Sam did as well
“I swear it your Highness” he said, “And then Duke Stark tried to stand up, all covered in mud, trying not to be affected by it, he just said, Who wants some wine?” you both broke out laughing
You were entertained by listening to his stories about his friends and about court
“I swear if he wasn't a Duke by then The King would have make him one right then and there” you took a sip of wine to drowned your laughter “and we did drank all the wine we had with us, but it was the middle of the day, that was the most fruitless hunt this realm had ever seen”
Entertaining and hosting Lord Wilson was easy, it came naturally now that you had met him more deeply, he was a nice gentleman, handsome and gallant, but down to earth, his presence was refreshing, even though the reason for his visit was unclear, it served you right, it made you happy.
Lord Wilson left your holdfast right after lunch, kissing your hand, with pleasant goodbyes and promises to take you hunting in the Royal Forest. You'd say to him it was a pleasure to have him at your castle, and you expect him to visit if he could, and to bring his sister with him so you could meet her, with promises of friendship .
“So, My lord” James' voice was heard among all others, so everything in the room became silent, to listen to the King “you came back from your visit to your Highness, tell us about her” Sam finished the wine inside his goblet, with a smirk on his face, he looked at the closest friends there
“Her Highness, is one of the most amazing creatures I had the fortune to came across”
“The most amazing one?” asked James “after all the ladies in the court?” he said as he gazed upon all the people gathered there, his eyes stopping at Sharon
“I'm afraid all of them pale against her” he said with a wide smile “she hunts, and fights with sword, as great as any of us, but when she puts on a dress, she is the finest lady you´ll ever see, she is gracious, funny, will talk about everything you ran through your mouth, she is of incredible wit, and beauty”
The King seemed struck by Lord Wilson´s words, and couldn't say a word, at his silence, one of his most trusted lords stepped forward
“I would like to see that for myself” said Anthony, Duke of Malibu “If you'll let me, your majesty” He seemed to be awoken from his dream, as he cleared his throat to speak
“It would be a great character trial founded by also your words and opinion” agreed Bucky “you may visit the Princess, and come back again with more tales”
Summary: A princess in your own right, you were sent by your father to marry the King when you became of age. The waiting had extended indefinitely as you waited in your holdfast hearing tales of the philanderer you had as a betrothed
Losing all hopes, you send him a nude painting of yourself, confident that he will never see it, nor it will interest him, oh how wrong you were.You were called upon court, to be finally betrothed to your King
Pairing: King!Bucky Barnes x Princess!FemReader (very ambiguously described)
Warnings: +18, Nothing much in this prologue, a little swordfighting, bad mouthinggg, thoughts about sexy times, a wild mistress around, tags to be added by chapter to avoid extreme spoilers
Word Count Total : 1.6 k
Notes: I might not be using that old-fasion medieval english, it escapes me, I hope you can still find fun in this anyways :)
You draw a sharp breath, trying to hold yourself together, as you take distance from your opponent, to be able to analyze him, see him, and try to interpret his next moves. You moved the thin sword in your hand swiftly, if you did not, your hand would cramp from the strenuous training
“Good” congratulated Lord Barton “remember, when you approach me, try your side, you are thinner on your side, less places for me to stab on” you did exactly that as you yield your sword against him, and started a ferocious fight, the cling sound of the metal as the blade shook against the other in a mortal dance
It was over when he managed to drop the sword from your hand
“I'm tired” you said as an excuse
“Of course your Highness” you sharpen your look at Barton´s mockery, and then you both laughed, as he took your sword as you walked back to the castle
“You are skilled in swordsmanship” he admired
“Thank to you” you answered
“All ladies should know how to draw a sword” he said “specially for their own safety”
“All Queens should at least, like my mother, who led their people into battle” you muttered
“Tales of Her Majesty's bravery and beauty had travelled all around the known world, even here” he said, looking at you
“Thank you Lord Barton, I must go back to my daily lesson” you walked faster in front of him, entering the castle, he vowed for you
You lived in that holdfast 5 years now, drawn here when you were barely a lady, and wait since then for when he calls upon you to marry him, him being, the king
You sat in front of your governess no the library, waiting for the day´s lesson
“I thought I had Military strategy today” you muttered, bored with that wretched old wench who´s job seemed to be, exclusively, making your life miserable
“Your tutor is out in town for leave to see his family” she said ”today you are due Royal duties and Realm rules”
“Oh” you signed as you stood straight
“You need to be prepared to your impending marriage to King James” she said, pointing her nose at you, so big it was hard to look her in the eyes instead “You are to be our Queen”
“If the King pleases” you muttered, she looked at you clenching her eyes “I´ve been of age for 3 years now, and I´m still here”
“A Queen does not speak in such manner” she said, raising her furry brow “A Queen obeys and waits patiently for his King” you, as a Princess in line for your own throne, it was hard to figure out there was only one above you, your King, more powerful than you
“Please start with the lesson” you muttered
“Good, we already covered our Kingdom´s more praised Ducats and principalities, and their castles, let's begin on who they belong to, for example, the House of Stark…”
And on and on it went, until the un set upon the horizon
When she finally released you, you found yourself in your own chambers, changing your outdoors outfit for something more loose. You didn't had to do it alone, since your lady entered your chambers
“Your highness” greeted your chambermaid, Wanda “I came to remind you of the King's Birthday, from this day, is in a fortnight” you signaled her to come into your room and close the door behind her, as she did hasty with a smile on her face
He came and sat beside you
“You know he had never send me anything” you said in confidence, to your chambermaid, and your dearest friend, Wanda “not in my birthdays or in Christmas, just senseless gifts somebody picks on his behalf, every year I send him a painted portrait of myself, alongside a number of gifts, and he never acknowledged, I don't even think he looks at them”
“I'm sure he does, your Highness” she answered on a whisper her words were not truthful as only spoken to make you feel better
“If he has, why wouldn't he send me a letter saying so? anything personal? a portrait of himself? I had never seen him!” she had for you only a saddened look “ I don't really care anyway, I´ll make him another one, since he is never going to gaze upon it anyways”
“What does your highness mean?” She asked. You only smiled wickedly
“Your Highness” the painter swallowed in front of you, hard “Are you sure?”
“Start the painting” you warned “my leg is cold and tightened” you laid in a bed of pillows, either way you managed to sat on them, your background was a thick blue velvet, you wore a ruby red dress that covered little in your chest, the golden corset underneath it visible, as it made you bosom look tightened and in place, it had a big slit in the skirt, made to be used over another gown, but you paid no mater, and one leg stood above the other completely barren.
You had put on the finest jewels you had, and a matching tiara of gold and rubies, matching the dress
You held an exquisite sword, the grip and pommel that rested on your shoulder had precious stones such as rubies and sapphires encrusted, and gold details that revealed a blade made by the finest blacksmith.
The blade of the sword crossed in front of your body and rested it's deadly point in the pillow bed beside you. at your feet and against the bed layed a shield, decorated with both the colours of your house, and the King´s
The sword the King will receive, along with your portrait.
It was bold
It was the boldest thing you've ever done, nobody but Wanda had seen your leg like that, but you felt so courageous, a fire within you fed with the tales of Wanda´s brother
He was never going to see it anyway
He was never going to marry you
Celebrations of the King's Birthday have shaken the court, all week there has been banquets, gifts coming from all parts of the continent, and guests as well. It was just after noon when the carriage sent by the Princess approached the castle
After already three days of drinking, feasting and celebrating, the King had retrieved himself with his most trusted lords, to receive gifts and tokens of appreciation from all around the country, or even, the continent as kings and queen from neighboring kingdoms had send their regards as well
“Your majesty” presented the page “For this glorious day of your birthday, your Betrothed, Your highness Princess (Y/N), sends you this gift” by the shape of it, he already knew what it was. Another portrait, that sweet young girl he was supposed to marry send one every year, after receiving them, he had wanted to send her one of himself, though, he never got himself to sit for unnumbered hours in front of a painter, he just couldn't bring himself to do it, and he often forgets about reciprocating those thoughtful gifts he received from her, though, he always made sure to send him jewelry, specially during Christmas´ festivities. He caressed the hair of the woman seated with him on his throne, his mistress, as he thought about the gift in front of him
“So, lets see it” he said with a deep sigh
But when the young page uncovered it… a general gasp was heard between his most trusted lords, it got riled up in a matter of seconds when the hedonist painting revealed itself to the King and those who were near, his lords hummed their approval, not daring to say anything out loud, this was the portrait of a monarch, wait, was it? yes, he remembered the beautiful face of his betrothed, and it belonged to the woman on the painting
King James´ eyes traveled through the exquisite portrait of the princess, her bold dress, her leg uncovered, the sword and shield, her seductive gaze. He had received the former ones, portraits that revealed her beauty and grace, the shapes of her face and those eyes that told him so much through the canvas, oh but this, her boldness, her defiance, her sexuality. If only a portrait of her made his pants tighter, he could only imagine what her true form would make him feel like
This goddess of sexuality and war, this... hedonist creature belonged to him, untouched, waiting for him and only him to defile her. Like a siren that could only chant his name. All alone in the castle he had send her to, waiting patiently for him
And that made him desire her, or at least, it poked at his curiosity
“This portrait” continued his page, Peter “came with this Your Majesty” he said as he approached the most important man in the room, he came with a large wooden box, engraved with intricate designs
Bucky opened the box hastily, to find the same sword she was holding in the painting
“The Princess seems eager to see me,” he said, with a wide smile on his face. He looked at his most trusted friend, His Grace Steve Rogers
“You'd do well your majesty” he said, with a smile as devilish as his “by finally inviting her to court”
“Should we invite her, Lady Sharon?” he asked without shame, at the woman beside him, who did not answer, but just looked at him through her lashes “Lord Wilson” he called “you shall leave at once, you will visit the Princess, learn everything you can about her, and come back, with tales of her beauty and grace”
“Yes your majesty” said the lord on his left, to nod and abandon the hall as fast as he could
Chapter Summary: You finally arrive to your new home, but the King himself seems further away
Pairing: King!Bucky Barnes x Princess!Reader (very ambiguously described)
Chapter Warnings: Cursing
+18 please. (but just for future explicit sex scenes)
Word Count (Chapter): 3.6k
Notes: Ooops this is a long one, I wanted to cramble all of her arrival in this one, since they are like small scenes
Couldn´t wait any longer to share this jiji
Steve spurred his horse beneath him, to start his journey back to you.
Was he bothered by this? No, he wasn't
Since the second he saw you, he thought you were the most amazing creature he had laid eyes upon.
But he also sensed your distress, you were growing frustrated, and bored, even if you rejected him and his invitation, you needed this. So did his friend and King, Bucky needed you, the Kingdom needed a Queen
He reached your holdfast at noon after he left the capital at the break of dawn.
He dismounted his steed, leaving at the hands of a young boy that worked the stables, and ran inside the castle, he couldn't wait anymore
Your loyal chambermaid Wanda has almost jumped him
“It's happening” he said, as he knew perfectly you hold her close to your own heart, “The King wants to marry her” he confined in her, the cheery redhead couldn't help but giggle at excitement
“She is in the library at her daily lessons” she said hastily. And that's where Steve went with long strodes
The lonely guard you had at the door knocked on the door as soon as he saw him, and proceeded to open the door and announce him
“His Grace, Steven Rogers” you perked up your head from the big book you were studying to look at him, surprised to see him
“Your Grace” you said, standing from your chair. He vowed to you to show you his respects
“Your Highness” he said, “I came with glorious purpose, and great news” He was so excited you could feel it
“Please Your Grace” you hurried, did he mean…?
“I´m here to escort you to the Capitol at once, were you will marry the King” you certainly wasn't expecting that
“Wanda, it's time you met with your brother again, would you come with me? be my lady in waiting, but most importantly, my confidant and my dearest friend?”
“I will happily do so” you hugged her tightly, and when you released her, she bowed and left you to go and get her things. So you turned to Lord Barton
“I will not ask of you to come with me” you muttered, an apologetic look on your face “You, My lord Barton, in the capital, away from this green fields, clear skies, and endless hunting grounds, seem to me as to put a Lion on a cage”
“Thank you Your Highness” he said with a chuckle “you are, as most times, right”
“However” you said, smiling widely “you have on me a friend, and when your sons and daughter come of age, if you ever want favors to be made on their behalf, you just write to me”
“I could never be able to repay you for your kindness” he said, looking straight at your eyes
“You have done plenty” you muttered “teaching me so many things, and stand me” you both laughed
“Serving you was the honor of my life” you gave him a smile
“I hope this isn´t a permanent Goodbye but just a “see you soon” you giggled
“See you soon your Highness” he said with a wide smile
As you parted from all the people who had cared for you during this 5 years, couldn't help but a few tears scape your eyes, you were going to miss them dearly
“Is this all your Highness?” Steven asked, surprised, as he looked at your small court, Wanda as your only companion of your chambers, a couple of guards, as the cooks, the people that tend to the castle such as gardeners, the people that tends to the stables, and Clint and his own guards and family would remain here
“I do think it is” you said with a small smile
“Are you sure you are not more comfortable in your carriage?” he asked
“I´m certain, if anything changes, I´ll let you know” he smiled kindly at you
“Let 's do this then”
You rode in silence, as you took in the environment around you, the views, and the sweet spring breeze. You felt Steve´s gaze burning you, but you didn't dare to look back at him
Only hours later when you saw the Capitol at a distance, you dared to look at him
“Tell me about the King” you asked Steve, as you ride beside him, he looked at you and smiled
“Well, what would you like to know?”
“How is he?”
“His Majesty is a man fair and just”
“Is he nice?” you asked
“Nice? Well, yes, with those closest to him, you know that as a king he needs to be strong”
“Oh” you said “is he good?”
“His Majesty is the living image of goodness and strength” she nodded
“How old is he?”
“His majesty celebrated his 29 years” he was 10 years your senior, you gripped the reins of your horse tighter
“How old are you, your highness?” of course he sense you were uneasy
“19” you said, and you smiled coyly at him “Is he tall?”
“He is as tall as me”
“Very, then” you said
“Indeed” he said, not letting his eyes trailed from your form, you felt it “he is what the ladies would call, handsome, he has dark hair, and blue eyes” you blushed, not daring to look at him
“Does he enjoy riding?”
“He does your Highness”
“What else does he like to do?”
“He likes hunting”
“I like hunting!” you said cheerfully “maybe we could go hunting together!” you were excited, that he enjoyed two of the things you liked as well
“I bet his Majesty would like that very much” he affirmed
“Does he read?”
“He has a huge library, plagued with the arts of the most venerated authors, some even, in latin”
“That's amazing” you celebrated, and you were relieved to know he did read, hinting he was smart, and he enjoyed riding, just like you, and he was handsome
As you crossed the capitol´s walls your small caravan was slowed down by curious people, all of them coming out of their houses to look at you. Steve had come with royal guards and carriages, sporting the flags of his majesty´s.
It was a Royal affair and everyone knew it
Your guards sported your colours as well, very well known throughout the kingdom, so people started chanting as you were passing
“Long live the King!”
“Welcome home Princess” you heard amongst the crowds, and you couldn't help but smile widely and salute with your hand, hoping your poor horse would not be spooked by the people, the city and the noise
But soon you left the town behind, as you crossed the thick walls of the keep of the greatest castle you had seen. You saw a group of people gathered on the gates that lead to the Castle
You look impatiently, gaze upon everyone that waited for you, even leaning in your horse just so you could watch, but there wasn't anyone with a crown waiting for you
“I'm sorry your highness” said Steve by your side “it seems his majesty isn't here to greet you” you saw what looked like sorrow in his eyes, but couldn´t ve sure
“He is not even here?” you couldn't hide your disappointment. You felt Steve´s gaze upon you but you didn't look back, you rode your horse to the very entrance of the castle, where one of your guards was hasty to help you dismount.
A tall blonde fellow approached you.
“Your Royal Highness” greeted a man with a deep vow “I´m his majesty's chancellor, they call me the Vision, and it has fallen upon me to receive your Royal Highness in this magnificent, and historical day” he vowed again, as you look upon Steven by your side, you showed your respects by vowing all the same
“It's a pleasure to be in the capital of this magnificent Kingdom” you said strongly, to make sure everyone heard “and to finally by acquainted by his majesty the King”
“I´m afraid our Majesty had pressing matters to attend to” he said, not looking you in the face “but he has make sure everything is ready for your arrival”
“His Majesty is of the most gracious nature” you said. As he led you into the castle. You looked back to search for Steve, but as you found him he vowed to you
“I leave your Highness in good hands” you nodded and he retired from your view to one of the corridors
As you follow the chancellor through the corridors, and your small court behind you, you tried to take as much of the castle in as you could, all the walls and floors where of a clear sand color, and every corner was filled with tapestries, carpets, portraits and such
It was magnificent indeed
“This, are the Queen's chambers” he said clearly, presenting you in front of a double door, itself was decorated with wooden leafs and flowers “our Majesty has said it was more pressing that you settle here at once, the wedding itself and the coronation being so close at hand”
“Thank you Chancellor” two guards posted at the doors opened for you leading to your receiving hall.
“This is her highness receiving hall” it was a tremendous space, provided a fireplace, a big table for your meals and entertainment of guests, and a small living room, and space you just figure it could be used for dancing, in the opposite side of the room where another double doors, as you walked towards them, and opened yourself, you found your bedchambers. the predominal colors were purple, dark mahogany, and the sand color of the walls and floors
“This is magnificent” you muttered. Looking at everything as you could, this is where you´ll live, where you’ll sleep, this is where you´ll lay with the King and conceive and have his children, this is where you most likely going to die even
Your where interrumpted in your pondering by a cough made by the chancellor, on purpose, to gain your attention, you turned around and where meet with a group of young women, well, they looked older than yourself, but they were still young
“This would be your ladies in waiting” presented The Vision “Lady Jane” a thin woman with brunette hair vowed to you “Lady Natasha” she vowed, a beautiful woman with crimson hair “Lady Sharon” a blonde woman vowed “and Lady Sarah” that must be Lord Wilson´s sister
“I'm most grateful for you ladies, and your service” you said, you looked at Wanda, who remained by the door, and you made a gesture to go to her, as she met you halfway. you took her hand “this is Lady Wanda, my chambermaid and from now on, leading lady in waiting” they all nodded
“Really?” she asked, as she wasn't able to hide her excitement, you giggle as did she
“Of course” you said
“I'll leave alone to get settled” said The Vision, bowing to her, it was followed by all their men, gentlemen, guards and ladies that were going to serve her in her chambers
“In exchange for your good service and loyalty” you claimed “I offer you my protection, my gratitud, and my word, that I might help you as you did me, and help you find fine gentlemen and ladies for you to wed” you looked at each of their faces, and they seemed happy, relaxed, comfortable
“So, how is she?” Bucky asked Steve as he entered his private chamber
“It was disappointing for her to not see you”
“That isn't an answer”
“She is great, I left her with Vision, he is taking her to her chambers”
“The Queen's chambers”
“Indeed“
“I thought it was best for her to settle there at once, to make herself comfortable, she is to settle there anyways”
“It was a smart choice”
“Steve”
“Yes, your Majesty?”
“How is she, really?”
“She is like a small child, looking everything with wonder in her eyes, everything new to her, she is a little scared, but she is brave enough“ he stopped as his own tale, to look at the floor and smile, “We pass through the city, and the people, they chanted for her”
“Really?”
“They said, “Welcome home princess”
“I like that, the people have to see their Queen, and they shall love her” he paused as well, searching for the adequate words, “Is she… pretty?” he turned around to finally look at his friend, and Steve chuckled, his King, a man that had led armies, killed many men and protect this entire country, his friend, was nervous
“Her Highness is of great beauty, big beautiful eyes that shine when something amuses her or talks about something she likes, her smile is sparkling, wide and makes her cheeks dimpled, her nose is finely shaped, and he manages to wrinkle it when she is uncomfortable, her hair flows behind her as she walks”
“Calm down Steve” he said, already relaxed “she is to be my wife” Steve chuckled, trying to hide how much he let himself ramble and what that meant
“She is 19 years old” said Steve
“I know” he said “that's why I´ve been waiting”
“That she became of age?”
“Of course!” he said, impressed and shocked that his friend would think otherwise “you know her father sent her to me when she was just 14 and I just became King, claiming she had already became a woman”
“That's awful”
“I managed to play dumb, give her more time, she is barely a Lady now, but time is up”
“She is ready” said Steve “She will be a great Queen, but she needs guidance”
“I´ll give her everything she needs, as soon as I put that crown in her head I'll appoint a chancellor to see to her, and I already have the man for the job” Steve nods, his “Lord” face on, serious, calculating, fierce “and you too, there is no one that I trust more in this entire world than you, Steve, I need you to be close to her, you know of the uprisings of some lord's up north, now more than ever, we need to be strong”
“I'll protect and guide her” he said, bowing
“Thank you Steve” his blonde friend smiled widely, and Bucky chuckled, knowing what was coming
“She asked about you as well” Steve said
“What did you tell her?”
“That you were tall, and handsome, she asked if you were good, and nice”
“Did you tell her the truth?” he asked, amused
“Well, yes”
“Does she hate me yet?”
“She wants to meet you, I told her you were nice to those closest to you, that you were just, but kind, and good” he chuckled, mockingly “it´s true Bucky”
“Yeah sure, I want to see her too”
“Good”
“She´ll be brought to me tomorrow, at the throne room, we´ll prepare a feast in her honor”
“With all the courts and such?”
“They need to see their future Queen”
“Do you think that is wise?”
“She is to be Queen, I need to see her strength, above all in a situation as stressful as that”
“Very well then”
“Come with me” you said as you grabbed Wanda´s hand and started walking
“Where are we going?”
“I want to explore the castle” you said turning without stopping to talk to her “It would be great since you too are seeing it for the first time” The young page appointed to look after you also followed, young and nervous
“What was your name?” you asked turning around to see him
“Peter, your Highness”
“Have you been to all parts of the castle Peter?” you asked
“Most of them, my lady”
“Great, so you´ll make sure we don´t get lost” both ladies giggled as they began their journey through the gigantic castle.
Bucky was in his private chambers, reviewing some terms of a treaty of commerce with a neighboring kingdom, he was trying to focus, but couldn´t, his mind trailed to his future bride. He was nervous. He was going to be married for life to her, even if she passed the scrutiny of three of his closests friends with flying colours. This young woman will have his children, he was going to be his Queen, the protector of his country
He sighed while he rubbed his face with his hands
His train of thought was interrupted by giggles and little steps just outside his door, two feminine voices whispering.
He knew the few ladies that remained unmarried in the castle, and also knew no one would dare to do such things in such proximity to his chambers, also the maids and servants. He was curious, and waited till the voices faded. and slowly opened his doors, and followed the sound and voices
When he turned the corner he saw two ladies, and Peter the young page trotting behind their quick steps, one was a redhead, dressed as a lady in waiting, and the other… He stopped in his tracks, a tiara rested in her head, she was the princess!
He drew a sharp breath, knowing they were scouting the castle, he found it adorable. He smiled knowing they were going to the chambers he used to meet lords and other important people, and he also had secret passages that went in that direction and all through the castle
He started following them, through the passages. He needed to see her, how she was when no one was after her.
She managed to get a glimpse of her through a vent, as she was travelling the hall of the King. It was a large hall that connected the left wing of the castle, his chambers, his Queen´s and the most important chambers for reunions were there. The entire hall was decorated with huge portraits of all Kings and Queens that ruled before him.
“This is King´s James Father” said her lady in waiting, she turned and he finally saw her. She was beautiful, it took his breath away
“They said he was a great King” she said softly, his ears filled with her delightful voice “I wish I had met him”
“And this is his Queen”
“She was gorgeous” she said, with a wide smile, and Steve was right, her smile was beautiful and made her eyes sparkle
“They said the King takes after her” said her mischievous companion, making her giggle
“Steve told me he had dark hair and blue eyes, and ladies called him handsome, and he was tall as he is”
“You are lucky then” he had to cover his own mouth for his chuckle not to be heard. Her lady´s and her own arm were intertwined, and they talked freely between them. They were friends. “Where do you think he hung the portrait you sent him?”
“Please don´t remember me” they both laughed “I hope he didn't hang it in a very public space”
“I don't think he would, the ladies haven't seen it”
“We´ve been in this castle less than a day. How many people have you met?” she said, amused
“I'm very resourceful” they giggled again
“Oh I love you Wanda, you are my only company”
“You´ll meet more people, you´ll marry, and he will introduced all lords and ladies, and you´ll make friends”
“Let's hope so”
He couldn't listen anymore, he felt he was betraying her, he came back to his chambers through the secret corridors, he was calmed now, pleased even.
His future Queen was a beautiful lady, Sam was right, she eclipsed all the other ladies at court, she was smart, and she was nice, good, her relationship with her lady told him many things about her character, and she was innocent, too innocent and sweet. Dangerous characteristics for a Queen, well, she will learn in time
You felt your hands clammy, as you toyed with your own fingers, intertwined them together
“My Lady don't be frightened” said Lady Natasha by your side, capturing your attention “his majesty has a kind nature, and he is been waiting for you, he desires to meet you” she gave you a reassuring smile and you felt comforted
“Thank you, your words give me comfort” you gave her a sincere smile, for her kind words
The trumpets interrupted your friendly exchange, as they announced you
“Her Royal Highness Princess (Y/N) of the house (Y/L/N)” the double doors opened before you. And just like that, your were shoved into Brook´s court, and at the far end of the great hall, seated in his single throne, there he was, The King
You walked with small steps, focusing on your breathing, or else it was going to get caught in your throat. You must have looked like a scared little deer, you saw all the looks and gazes anchored in your figure, as you moved through the corridor made by the court. You looked fleetingly at all the big hall, it was decorated with banners of your house, and the King´s, behind all the curious lords and ladies, were tables full of food, and wine. It was a Banquet, a feast, in your honor. As you looked towards the Throne you recognize Lord Wilson, and Stark, and Steve, all standing next to the throne, and they all smiled at you
And before you noticed, you were a few feet away from him
You bowed deeply, as you raised your gaze to look at him
He was as handsome as everyone said. His hair was long, drawn back and held by his golden crown, his eyes were icy blue, and looked at you making you want to hide from his gaze.
“Your Majesty” you muttered
“Please raise” Your rose to your feet again, and you finally lifted your head “You are most welcome here, Princess”
“It's an honour to make your acquaintance, My King”
