yet another meeting in the name of alliances and peace had been conducted in a room filled with far too many people for augustus’ liking. discussions of a potential match between himself and karina romanov of russia had begun; it was an alliance that his advisors were strongly in favor of, due to the close proximity of the nations and russia’s sheer strength. and augustus saw the sense in it too-- saw what it could do for his people. karina was kind and beautiful, too, a friend, he would say, but-- selfishly, he sought another arrangement, allowed himself to hope to hold the hand of another. iris.
he exited the chambers where he had been meeting with them all ( the swarm of swedish and russian advisors following him in his exit ) at precisely 5 o’clock in the evening, when he had arranged to meet the princess of swaziland in the main hall via letters sent through their couriers the day before. augustus had planned to have a basket of food sent ahead to the stables. he thought, perhaps, the two enjoy a leisurely ride together and dine on the shores of the clear blue lake not too far away. it was much easier to feel himself with her, and especially easy when away from the confines of the castle walls.
the king prayed he was not being too forward, even after their last exchange. at the sight of iris, he moved forward to greet her, a quiet smile on his lips.
“good evening, your grace,” augustus said, maintaining formalities in such a public space. “i’m quite grateful you could spare some time to pass with me.” he waved away his advisors, moving to walk with her to the doors, and leaving the castle. “i-- i had some ideas for how we might spend the evening?” he began. “would you be alright with a ride and to dine by the lake, my-- iris?” he caught himself on the formality, attaching her name to his question instead. “if not, just say the word and it will be forgotten.” @irisodoemene