Evangeline
In the heart of the Kingdom of Gaelle, an imposing edifice of weathered stone pierced the sky atop one of the tallest sea cliffs. The royal castle's fortified walls and crenellated towers projected an image of formidable strength, unyielding against the relentless crash of waves pounding the rugged cliffs below.
Despite its rugged and imposing exterior, the castle's interior boasts a surprising contrast—a fusion between modernity and classic elegance. Polished marble floors stretched out from the entrance hall, soft light filtering through towering arched windows draped with silk. The entrance hall greets visitors with a sweeping staircase with a wrought-iron banister, leading to the upper chambers. The chambers themselves have tall windows overlooking the breathtaking ocean views, drawing guests to the mesmerizing scenery. The balconies attached to each chamber are a favored spot where guests recline on cushioned chairs, offering a perfect retreat to savor the salty breeze and the crashing waves against the cliffs.
In one of the interior courtyards, a young girl's laughter echoed among the towering evergreens, whose sprawling branches extended through arched walkways to create a seamless blend of architecture and forestry. It was along these secluded footpaths that much of Evangeline's childhood took shape under the adoring guidance of her parents—an upbringing steeped in the values of intellectual curiosity, duty... and unrestrained joie de vivre. King Caspian claimed he could never refuse when his daughter appeared with bright eyes and an impish grin, tugging on his sleeve until he abandoned his duties to join her adventures. Queen Callista's laughter frequently rang out as she twirled with her children in impromptu dance circles amid the sheltered groves.
While their days adhered to the structured lessons and responsibilities befitting royalty, Caspian and Callista ensured their children's inquisitive spirits remained untamed. Rather than lecturing about their subjects' plights, they brought Evangeline and her siblings into the rural villages and coastal towns themselves. There, the children witnessed firsthand the hardships and treasured traditions, listening with rapt attention as grievances were earnestly voiced before the king and queen. They made sure Evangeline and her siblings understood the significance of their roles and the responsibilities they would shoulder in the future.
Even court proceedings became opportunities for immersive learning. Evangeline and her siblings occasionally observed from the sidelines, the young princes and princesses tasked with analyzing both sides of any issue and proposing creative solutions from various viewpoints.
As the years passed, Evangeline's carefree childhood exuberance blossomed into a captivating elegance and refined poise. If anything, that aura of regal mystique only heightened Evangeline's allure as she blossomed into womanhood. Her features and lithe dancer's physique exuded an ethereal, almost otherworldly beauty that could not help but draw admiring gazes wherever she went. An icy facade of remote inscrutability clung to her at first glance, daring any potential suitors to solve the enigma smoldering behind those fathomless eyes.
Yet these changes never dampened her lively spirit entirely. An impish sparkle still glints in her eyes when she chooses to reveal it - delighting in startling laughter from even the driest of nobles with her mischievous quips. For Evangeline refused to mold herself into another's expectation of an omega's subservient demureness. She simply...was. Unapologetically authentic in her desires, her wit, her infectious spark of irreverence. In the warmth of her parents' affections, she developed an uncompromising confidence to be solely and unapologetically herself.
If anyone dared underestimate her worth or insult those she loved, they swiftly found themselves recoiling from the full brunt of Evangeline's unbridled confidence and uncompromising sense of justice. Not that she sought confrontation purely for its own sake. But neither did she shrink from defending her values or putting uppity nobles firmly back in their place with a few well-chosen words and a pointed look that could shrivel even the most bravado-puffed ego.
In recent years, as Evangeline assumed more official duties, her parents observed a subtle shift in their daughter's demeanor. A distancing, almost. Not out of coolness or any fading sense of familial affection. More an inward turning, a hyper-focused diligence when it came to affairs of state. As if she were subconsciously redirecting all that passion and enthusiasm onto her official duties to fill some unacknowledged void. It manifested in the focused intensity she brought to council meetings; her brow furrowed as she weighed every contingency. In the studious silence that draped her chambers late into the evening, candles burned low as she pored over transcripts, leaving no issue unexamined.
It was not long after her most recent relationship had ended—one her parents had cautiously hoped might have blossomed into something more enduring—that this shift became pronounced. While Evangeline maintained her typical warmth and good humor around family, a certain sparkle dimmed behind those striking eyes when she assumed her professional mantle. Not unhappiness per se. More...preoccupation. Whatever light she found fulfillment in appeared increasingly intertwined with affairs of state instead of personal romantic entanglements.
Her mother and father understood and appreciated their daughter's earnest dedication to upholding the crown's obligations. But they couldn't silence their nagging concerns that Evangeline was perhaps judging herself too harshly, withdrawing from that part of herself that once leapt wildly into romantic dalliances with joyful abandon.
So it was with somewhat conflicted motivations that they first broached the subject of Lumina's royal festival being held to introduce Princess Rebecca to potential suitors...
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5 months prior to the festival in Lumina
The day's administrative meetings had finally drawn to a close, the thick ledgers and scrolls scattered across the desk, an indication of the hours Evangeline had devoted to reviewing every proposal. As the last flicker of twilight faded from the windows, she let out a tired groan and rose from her chair, her back aching from being hunched over for so long.
Stretching her arms overhead, she felt the knots in her shoulders protest. With a sigh, she walked over to the tall windows, pulling the silk curtains aside to gaze at the ocean beyond. The moonlight cast a silver sheen on the waves, a peaceful contrast to her weary soul. She stood there for a moment, taking in the serene beauty of the night, allowing the gentle rhythm of the ocean to soothe her.
A discreet rap at the door interrupted her moment. “Come in,” she called, not turning away from the window.
The door creaked open, and the familiar voice of her older brother, Lucas, filled the room. “Still working, Evangeline?”
She turned to face him, offering a tired smile. “The work never ends, does it?”
Lucas walked over, his footsteps muffled by the thick carpet. “You’re doing a remarkable job, you know. Father and Mother are always singing your praises.”
Evangeline shrugged, though her brother’s words warmed her heart. “I just want to do my part.”
Lucas placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “And you are. But you also need to remember to live a little. There’s more to life than ledgers and council meetings.”
Evangeline sighed, leaning her head against the cool glass of the window. “Mother said something similar earlier. She and Father think I should go to the festival in Lumina.”
Lucas raised an eyebrow. “The festival? I think it’s a splendid idea. You’ve been cooped up in this castle for too long. It would be good for you to get out, meet new people... maybe find a partner to share your life with."
Evangeline's eyebrows shot up at her brother's words, a knowing look crossing her features. "Did Mother and Father ask you to come talk to me about this?"
A sheepish expression flickered across Lucas's face as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Well... they may have mentioned their concerns over dinner earlier," he admitted with a half-smile. "But you know I simply want what's best for you, Evy."
His use of that childhood nickname brought a reluctant grin to tug at the corners of Evangeline's mouth, despite her mild exasperation. Pulling away from the window, she moved to give her brother's arm a playful swat.
"I'm hardly a little girl anymore, you know. But I appreciate your concern, even if it was partially prompted." She shook her head wryly. "Though I must say, I'm surprised Mother and Father felt the need to enlist your aid on this matter."
Lucas chuckled, raising his hands in surrender. "Hey, I only agreed because I've witnessed firsthand how singularly devoted you are to your duties these days. We're all proud of your diligence, but..." He paused, clearly choosing his words carefully. "Perhaps an opportune travel prospect could provide a different perspective?"
“Maybe,” she conceded. "But I haven't really thought about attending such an event. I don't think I'm particularly keen on the idea of finding a partner at a festival."
Lucas gave her an understanding nod, his expression softening. "I know how you feel, Evy. After what happened with Alistair..." He trailed off, not needing to give voice to the heartbreak they both knew she had endured when her former partner ended things so abruptly.
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Evangeline felt her chest tighten at the mention of Alistair's name, but she kept her chin lifted, refusing to let the lingering hurt show.
"You don't have to go to Lumina with the sole purpose of finding a partner," Lucas continued gently, no doubt recognizing the brief flicker of pain that crossed her face. "Think of it as a chance to simply enjoy yourself for a change. To experience a new kingdom and culture without the weight of responsibilities for a little while."
As her brother extolled the virtues of experiencing a new kingdom without the burdens of her duties, Evangeline's gaze drifted back out towards the inky waves. She worried the inside of her cheek between her teeth, mulling over his appeal to let her heart remain open to possibilities.
Did she truly have it in her to go through the motions of navigating romance yet again after her hopes had been so candidly dashed? Alistair's parting words, delivered with such dismissive conviction, still stung like salt in an unhealed wound whenever she allowed herself to revisit them. His utter inability—or willingness—to refute his parents about her omega status had left her questioning her worth and place in his life. Yet she had still believed in a shared future with Alistair, as he whispered promises of love and defiance against his family's prejudice. His betrayal had blindsided her, not because she doubted her own strength but because she had believed in his.
He reached out, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "And who knows? Maybe, just maybe, you'll find someone there who can appreciate you for the amazing omega you are. Someone who doesn't let backward notions about dynamics cloud their vision."
Letting out a rueful chuckle, Evangeline shook her head. "You make it sound so simple. As if I could just open my heart again after Alistair made his feelings about my nature quite clear."
"I'm not saying it will be easy," Lucas acknowledged. "But you deserve to find the kind of love that embraces you wholly, Evy. Don't let one cad's blindness steal away your chance at true happiness."
He fixed her with an earnest look, his voice taking on that big brother tone of wisdom beyond his years. "Give yourself this chance to live a little beyond the castle walls. You never know who might enter your life if you simply allow the possibility."
Evangeline turned back to the window, her thoughts drifting as she watched the waves crash against the cliffs. “I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to go.”
“That’s the spirit,” Lucas said, giving her shoulder a squeeze. "And who knows? You might even enjoy yourself.”
Evangeline offered a small smile to her brother through the window reflection.
"Thank you, Lucas. I know you all mean well. I'll think about it, truly."
"That's all we can ask," Lucas replied warmly.
"Just keep an open mind and enjoy the experience. Who knows what might happen?"
With a small nod and a faint smile, Evangeline assured her brother, "I'll keep an open mind, brother. Just don't expect too much from me."
~~
The day of the gala
The gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of blooming roses as Evangeline passed through the gates into the Kingdom of Lumina. Despite Lumina's renowned beauty of the lush gardens surrounding her, she couldn't quite muster excitement for the grand festival commencing. Although her parents insisted on her attendance to meet Princess Rebecca, Lumina's alpha princess, Evangeline found herself more drawn to the festivities—music, food, and dance—than to courtly obligations. She wasn't particularly excited about the event itself, especially with its primary purpose of getting to know Princess Rebecca. Instead, she approached with more interest in its celebrations than the formalities that awaited.
"Princess Evangeline, welcome!" A footman bowed at her. "Please, allow me to escort you to the ballroom."
With a polite incline of her head, Evangeline acquiesced, permitting the footman to usher her in. Immediately, her gaze was drawn to the regal figure holding court at the center of the gathered crowd.
Even from a distance, Princess Rebecca's regal poise and cultivated airs of decorum were unmistakable. Evangeline watched, taking note of the practiced gestures - chin lifted, a faint yet inviting smile, hands periodically smoothing invisible wrinkles from her immaculate gown. Every motion seemed meticulously rehearsed for maximum graciousness. Not a hair appeared out of place, not a single movement uncontrolled.
As Evangeline watched Rebecca greet a cluster of tittering nobles, she found her attention waning just as quickly as it had been captured. As their interaction played out through the typical niceties and well-choreographed hospitalities, Evangeline felt... detached. Disconnected. As though Rebecca's very presence was a flawless performance, one she had dutifully memorized down to the smallest inflection and tilt of her head. There was a polished veneer, an invisible barrier separating Evangeline from any sense of who the real Rebecca truly was beneath the studied mannerisms.
Despite Rebecca's outward warmth and inviting demeanor, Evangeline perceived it as little more than an act, one she'd no doubt spent years perfecting. The slight glaze over her eyes, the rigid control of her features—it all contributed to a distinct sense of distance, as though she actively resisted anyone breaching those carefully constructed walls.
It wasn't until the shock of the public revelation that Rebecca was not the alpha heir they'd all assumed, but an omega, that the facade began to make sense. A hush fell over the ballroom as muted gasps and murmurs rippled through the crowd. In that moment, Evangeline's cursory dismissal of Rebecca's persona morphed into a confusing swirl of curiosity, understanding... and a surprising stab of empathy.
Though Evangeline had never faced the same scrutiny or expectations due to her omega status, she had witnessed the subtle biases and misconceptions that surrounded them. She understood the unspoken pressures and the weight of assumptions that Rebecca must bear daily. What had seemed like cold detachment now projected as a shield against judgment, a necessary armor to navigate a world quick to judge based on birthright alone.
A small frown creased Evangeline's brow as she continued observing the other princess across the ballroom. There was an irony, she realized, in her earlier disdain for Rebecca's perceived lack of authenticity. For Evangeline had been guilty of judging too hastily, of failing to look beneath the surface herself. Just as she detested when others made assumptions about her based on her dynamic, she had dismissed Rebecca's persona without seeking to truly understand the woman beneath.
Through the heavy silence and sidelong glances between shaken nobles, Evangeline noted Rebecca's reaction. The slight crease in her brow, the telling sheen glistening in her eyes as they anxiously roved across disapproving frowns and scandalized whispers. A flicker of movement from the corner of her eye drew Evangeline's attention—Rebecca stiffening almost imperceptibly as a noblewoman's gaze raked over her with thinly veiled disdain.
As if sensing Evangeline's pensive gaze, Rebecca's eyes flitted in her direction. Their eyes met and held for the span of a heated breath. Then the moment slipped away, the crowd jostling as the music swelled once more.
Despite her growing curiosity and the newfound understanding she harbored for Princess Rebecca, she couldn't find it in herself to form deeper feelings or an interest that would prompt her to seek Rebecca out to get to know her better. Giving an imperceptible shake of her head, Evangeline brushed aside her contemplations for the time being. She was here to enjoy the revelries, not dwell on matters that could be unpacked later. While her parents' intentions were clear—to encourage a relationship between her and Rebecca in hopes for Evangeline to settle down—Evangeline's primary purpose for being at Lumina extended beyond courtship. Evangeline was here for the festivity, the lively music that echoed through the halls, the colorful array of foods, and the ambiance of the festival mood. Turning on her heel, she allowed the swell of merriment to beckon her back.
Perhaps, she mused, there would be other opportunities to peel back the layers around the mysterious Princess Rebecca. But that was a query for another time.
~~
With an effortless elegance, she made her way across the ballroom, casting warm smiles at the nobles who turned appreciative gazes her way.
There was no mistaking the nobles' obvious admiration; their eyes drawn helplessly to the vision Evangeline made in her lavender gown. The rich fabric seemed to caress her figure, accentuating her lithe grace with every measured stride. Soft golden tresses cascaded over one slender shoulder in waves, framing features that radiated timeless beauty.
Yet Evangeline seemed to possess an innate obliviousness to the stir her appearance caused; the occasional hint of pink dusting her cheeks was the only indication she registered the rapt attention at all. For hers was a presence that commanded not through grandiose arrogance but through the quiet self-assurance of one comfortable in her own radiance.
As she made her way through the ballroom, a young lordling with a smattering of freckles across his nose stepped directly into Evangeline's path. His eyes went comically wide as he realized his misstep, his mouth working soundlessly.
Rather than meet his stammered apology with haughty disdain, Evangeline simply favored him with a warm smile. "Well, hello there. What is your name?"
The lordling blinked owlishly for a moment before seeming to regain his bearings. "It's Henry, Princess Evangeline. I didn't mean to get in your way."
With an airy chuckle, Evangeline waved off his concerns. "Already forgiven and forgotten. Now, why don't you tell me about that fascinating book tucked under your arm?"
Several noblewomen tittered behind upraised fans, no doubt marveling at the unexpected graciousness from one of such high standing. But Evangeline paid them no mind, giving the lordling her full attention as she prompted him further.
It wasn't until another noblewoman, this one from an esteemed family line if her ornate jewels were any indication, swept forward and interrupted with a simpering, "Oh Princess, you absolutely mustn't waste your time on such trifling matters..."
Evangeline met her gaze evenly, unruffled by the attempted condescension. "On the contrary, Lady Winslow. I find the pursuit of knowledge to be one of life's greatest joys. Please, do go on..." She turned back to the lordling with an encouraging smile.
Lady Winslow flushed, clearly not expecting to be so deftly rebuffed. With a stiff sniff, she stalked off, leaving Evangeline to continue her engaged discourse with the young man.
As their chat carried on, more nobles couldn't help but be drawn into the princess's engaging charisma. Evangeline fielded their queries about her homeland and royal upbringing with a disarming candor that quickly put even the most skeptical at ease.
"Is it true your parents permit you to journey amongst the villages and interact with... the commoners?" One baron ventured, his tone aiming for nonchalance but unable to mask his incredulity.
Evangeline's dimpled smile only broadened at his poorly-veiled disdain. "But of course! How else are we to truly understand the plights and burdens our people shoulder? A ruler detached from those they govern is one doomed to make decisions based on incomplete knowledge."
Intrigued murmurs rippled through the cluster of nobles, their assumptions clearly challenged by this fresh perspective. Capitalizing on their receptive audience, Evangeline continued, "My parents believe wisdom stems from firsthand experience, not just through books or lectures. Is that not a philosophy you'd embrace for your own children?"
The baron could only sputter briefly before offering a reluctant nod of acquiescence, thoroughly outwitted by Evangeline's reasoned affability.
From there, their discussion meandered through various topics—traditions, cultural differences, even the merits of certain local delicacies. And through it all, Evangeline ensured no one voice dominated the conversation for too long.
With deft redirections and an engaging curiosity, she coaxed insights even from the shyest nobles, her humble inquiries a subtle salve to their discomfort. Elders who might have felt patronized by another's line of questioning found themselves utterly charmed by Evangeline's genuine interest in their perspectives.
It was a masterclass in royal court social graces—an omega princess whose unpracticed charisma flowed as naturally as a sweet spring wind, putting even the most adherents of propriety at ease through her simple warmth and lack of pretense. Utterly captivating, yet in the most disarming and unassuming of ways.