Rebecca has a busy day ahead, though it wasn't crucial per se. She was to meet individually with all the neighboring kingdom heirs participating in the festival to discuss the details of the month-long event. There were certain key events that they must know, and Rebecca wanted to meet with everyone, not only to clarify expectations but also to extend a warm welcome.

As the palace bustled with preparations, Rebecca made her way to the meeting chamber, nerves fluttering within. She had always felt somewhat shy around strangers, particularly in casual or social encounters removed from official duties. And the prospect of meeting potential suitors set her heart racing with a tangled mix of nervousness and excitement. Yet, her regal upbringing had trained her well, and no one would have known the nerves that she was feeling.

The first heir to arrive was Prince Eric, with whom she had met yesterday. His charismatic smile and confident air greeted her as he entered, and Rebecca couldn't help but briefly recall their previous meeting, where he had impertinently raised the idea of becoming her royal consort.

"Good morning, Prince Eric. I hope you managed to get a good night's sleep." Rebecca greeted, her voice cordial yet carrying a hint of residual reserve.

Eric met her gaze directly, undeterred by her cool tone. "Good morning, Princess Rebecca. The night was peaceful. I hope you enjoyed the gala last night."

A smile curled her lips. "I did. It truly was an amazing evening. As you know, this festival holds great significance for myself and Lumina."

"I'm well aware, Princess. I'm honored to be part of it, and I look forward to the days ahead."

Rebecca smiled, appreciating Eric's words. "During the festival, I encourage interacting with Lumina citizens and the other heirs, as well as participate in some of the events and activities."

Eric nodded, his enthusiasm evident. "Of course. I've been looking forward to experiencing Lumina's culture and traditions firsthand."

Rebecca's gaze softened. "Beyond that, I invite you to plan a date—a chance for us to spend meaningful time together and get to know one another... away from the formalities of court." A hint of mischief sparked her eyes as she added, "Though I should mention, I'll be going on dates with all participating heirs, not just yourself."

Initially brightening, Eric's widening smile gradually faded as her words dispelled any notion that her interest was focused on him. Rebecca made it clear that she would be entertaining and getting to know all the potential suitors, not just him specifically.

He took a moment to absorb this fact before responding with a good-natured chuckle, any disappointment masked by playful resignation. "Ah, I see. Well, Princess Rebecca, it seems that the festival will be keeping you quite busy this month."

As Rebecca moved through the conversation topics, discussing the various aspects of the festival and the expectations that came with it, there was a noticeable change in her demeanor when she broached the topic of the unique tradition that marked the end of the month. Despite her poised exterior, her fingers unconsciously toyed with a strand of hair, a nervous gesture that revealed the internal struggle as a shyer, more vulnerable side surfaced regarding this particular topic.

After a momentary pause, no doubt considering if Eric could handle such delicate information after his previous misstep, Rebecca's voice lowered and softened, carrying a hint of hesitance. Clearing her throat, her eyes momentarily dropped to the floor before meeting Eric’s gaze. "...There is one more aspect to the festival that I should explain. At the end of the month, it's tradition for my potential partner to spend a night alone with me… intimately, that is. And when our scents intertwine, it will allow us to gauge our compatibility on a deeper level." Her voice trailed off, a faint blush dusting across her cheeks.

With shy earnestness, Rebecca continued carefully. "It's a way to... to discern if our scents are compatible. Our scents are believed to indicate suitability, you see." She paused, her gaze briefly darting away before returning to meet Eric's eyes again, as if seeking reassurance that her words were being understood. "I understand it may seem... unconventional, but this tradition holds great significance for Lumina. While this festival itself is a new endeavor, once I have selected my partner, it will be expected of me that I uphold this tradition with my intended partner."

"And to clarify, I'm not implying I'll be… spending that night with every suitor. Just the one I hope to have developed feelings for by month's end." The blush deepened fleetingly across her cheeks as she forced out the potentially embarrassing explanation.

"I understand, Princess," Eric replied gently. "Every kingdom holds unique customs that may seem unconventional to outsiders. But I respect Lumina's traditions. In Valeria, our annual Festival of Bonds involves an exchange of tokens symbolizing friendship or respect."

Rebecca nodded her head shyly back, her appreciation evident. "Thank you, Prince Eric. I-It's reassuring to know that our kingdom cherishes our own customs. I hope our time together will help us build connections that can potentially benefit our kingdoms... and maybe more."

Their conversation continued, touching on various aspects of the festival and the expectations that lay ahead. Eric's genuine interest in Lumina's culture helped ease Rebecca’s worries, leaving her with a sense of optimism for the month to come.

Once Eric left, Rebecca only had a few minutes to herself before the next heir entered the chamber. Just as before, Rebecca explained the festival's purpose, encouraging participation and planning a more intimate date. As the conversation broached towards the topic of sharing a night, it became easier for Rebecca to explain. Having to continuously explain to the heirs, one after the other, gradually eased her into broaching the topic. Her cheeks still flushed slightly as she touched the subject; however, there was a lingering hint of shyness that didn't fade entirely with the repetition.

~~

Last to arrive was Princess Evangeline, whose presence had already left an impression since the opening gala. Ever since first laying eyes on Evangeline at the gala and then exchanging fleeting glances across the ballroom the previous evening, Rebecca had found the princess lingering in her thoughts in an unexpected way, stirring up feelings of eagerness tinged with apprehension about their impending meeting.

As the door slowly opened, Princess Evangeline entered the room, her demeanor as poised and serene as ever. She noticed Evangeline's graceful demeanor and the subtle self-assurance in her bearing - traits that had initially caught Rebecca's eye at the gala. Evangeline's gaze held a kind of gentle intrigue, as if she, too, had been affected by their brief interaction.

Rising to greet her, Rebecca found herself momentarily flustered, struggling to maintain her usual composure in Evangeline's presence. A warm smile slowly spread across her face. "Princess Evangeline, please come in. Thank you for taking the time to join me today. I'm pleased we could have this conversation."

"Thank you, Princess Rebecca," Evangeline replied, returning the smile with a gracious nod as she settled into a chair across from Rebecca. "Please, call me Evangeline," she added, her tone soft but allowing no room for disagreement.

Rebecca nodded back, a touch shyly. "Of course, Evangeline... And please, call me Rebecca as well. I hope you enjoyed yourself last night?" Her tone carried a warm curiosity and hopefulness that Evangeline had found pleasure in the event.

Meeting Rebecca's gaze, a small smile played across Evangeline's lips. "I did, princess. I must admit, I love dancing... so I indulged myself thoroughly last night. The music, the atmosphere - it all felt so inviting that I couldn't resist."

A playful smile tugged at the corners of Rebecca's mouth as she replied, her voice holding a faint teasing lilt. "It sounds like you had a delightful evening. I'm glad to hear it." Her smile softened as she continued, "The gala is just the beginning of Lumina's month-long festival. I hope the rest proves equally enjoyable for you."

Evangeline's features softened subtly, a faint blush gracing her cheeks as she responded with a soft, warm smile. "Thank you... Rebecca. I have no doubt the rest will be just as enchanting, especially with your presence."

A bashful smile curled Rebecca's lips as her own face warmed with a rosy hue. The unexpected compliment from Evangeline sent her heart fluttering pleasantly. "Th-thank you, Evangeline." Ducking her head momentarily, a shy smile played across her lips as she murmured, "Your words are very kind. I... hope I can make the festival enjoyable for you, too."

Glancing back up, Rebecca found Evangeline's striking gaze already fixed upon her. A certain coolness lay behind the intensity, a depth that seemed to hold veiled glimmers of intrigue simmering beneath her serene demeanor. Yet an underlying warmth evoked a tenderness at odds with her almost cold aloofness that somehow managed to put Rebecca at ease.

"The festival will host many events and functions. I hope you'll find interest in some of them," Rebecca said, her voice carrying a hopeful tone as she looked into Evangeline's eyes. Clearing her throat softly, she pressed on, "Beyond that, I've invited each heir to plan a meaningful date - a chance for us to get to know one another better on a personal level."

A small smirk tugged at the corners of Evangeline's lips before she concealed it. As Rebecca spoke, keen eyes observed every nuance, detecting a flicker of particular interest directed her way. The subtle anticipation in Rebecca's gaze did not go unnoticed.

"And what about you?" Evangeline inquired, her tone teasingly playful. "Do you have any preferences for these dates, Rebecca?"

Color bloomed across Rebecca's cheeks once again. "Well... I must admit, I'm looking forward to the dates and the festival itself. However..." She paused, faltering slightly, unable to bring herself to directly express her anticipation for a date with Evangeline. “There is one date I’m anticipating the most.”

Evangeline's warm gaze remained steady, her smile hinting at amusement as an expectant glint sparked her eyes. Leaning in slightly, genuine curiosity evident in her posture, she prodded gently, "Oh?” Evangeline inquired, her tone teasing. “And which one has captured your attention so, Rebecca?"

Rebecca's heart fluttered in her chest at Evangeline’s playful teasing. Despite her bashfulness, she couldn't resist the temptation to lean in closer, bringing their faces mere inches apart. The air between them seemed charged with anticipation as Rebecca whispered, her voice barely above a breath, "Yours, Princess Evangeline."

Evangeline's expression subtly intensified at the admission, a slight shift that sent Rebecca's stomach tying itself in knots as she unconsciously released her rose pheromones into the air between them. Evangeline's gaze, already captivating, took on an almost smoldering intensity that rendered Rebecca transfixed, unable to look away.

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The floral scent wafted through the space, and Evangeline's nostrils flared ever so slightly as she drew in a deep breath. For the briefest moment, Evangeline's pupils dilated, her lips parting slightly as if savoring the fragrance. Then, just as quickly as the shift had come over her features, it passed, replaced by that disarming warmth that melted away any lingering apprehension.

"Hmmm... that's a lovely thought," Evangeline murmured softly. "I too am quite eager to plan our date, Rebecca."

Rebecca's breath hitched slightly at the response, a surge of happiness washing over her as Evangeline's acknowledgment seemed to lift a weight from her heart she hadn't realized she carried. Their gazes lingered, Rebecca's chest feeling strangely heavy yet content in a way she couldn't describe. It was almost as if Evangeline's tender warmth and playful charm were gently unraveling the aloof, mysterious figure that had so captivated Rebecca just nights before at the gala.

As the comfortable silence stretched, Rebecca slowly leaned back in her seat, the spell broken though her heart still raced. Faint color tinged her cheeks as her fingers traced idle patterns on the table. "You know, I must admit I was eagerly anticipating our meeting today. Your presence at the opening gala was quite enchanting, and I couldn't help but wonder about the person behind that cool, alluring composure.”

For the briefest moment, Evangeline's eyes darkened with a smoldering heat, her gaze raking over Rebecca with an unmistakable yearning before she visibly composed herself once more. "You're too kind, Rebecca. But I must say, your own presence was utterly captivating as well."

The compliment sent Rebecca’s heart a mess all over again. Unaware, she released another waft of her pheromones - a delicate, alluring fragrance that seemed to beckon Evangeline. It captivated Evangeline's senses in a way she hadn’t experienced before, and she couldn’t help but like the scent. Instinctively, Evangeline took a deeper breath, savoring the aroma that now enveloped the chamber - comforting yet intoxicating in its tender uniqueness.

Evangeline's pupils dilated as the scent washed over her. For a moment, she felt the urge to get closer, as if drawn in by an invisible tether. However, just as quickly as the spell threatened to envelop her senses, a flicker of self-awareness reasserted itself. With an inaudible intake of breath, Evangeline blinked slowly, her resolve stiffening as she forced her gaze away from the distracting princess before her.

"My apologies, Rebecca," Evangeline murmured, her tone strained with a husky undertone. “You'll have to forgive me. Your… pheromones seem to have had quite an impact on me.” She offered Rebecca a self-deprecating half-smile. "Perhaps, if it's not too much to ask, could you try to... temper their effect a bit?"

Rebecca's eyes widened in surprise, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment as she realized she had been inadvertently affecting Evangeline with her pheromones. "Oh, I-I'm so sorry, Evangeline," she stammered, flustered by herself. "I didn't even realize I was... emitting them."

Feeling quite confused and concerned, Rebecca wracked her brain, trying to recall any instances where her pheromones had such a potent effect on someone before. But try as she might, she couldn't recall a single moment. It was as if this reaction was unique to her interactions with Evangeline.

As she pondered this, unease washed over her. She had always been cautious about revealing too much of herself, especially when it came to her omega traits. Yet here she was, inadvertently exposing one of the most intimate aspects of her biology to Evangeline.

"Of course, I'll do my best to control it," Rebecca replied earnestly. "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."

Evangeline's expression softened, a flicker of remorse shining in her eyes. "Thank you, Rebecca. I appreciate your understanding," she said, her tone gentler now. "It's not your fault, really. Just... unexpected."

The tension seemed to dissipate as an amicable silence fell between them once more. Rebecca noted how easily Evangeline had regained her composure; the princess' placid demeanor restored as if the earlier moment had never occurred.

As their conversation resumed over lighter subjects, Rebecca couldn't help but wonder about the undercurrents clearly flowing beneath Evangeline's serene surface. There was an enthralling mystique about the princess that Rebecca found herself increasingly drawn to unraveling.

With their formal discussion winding down, Rebecca sensed an appropriate moment to broach the delicate tradition central to the festival's purpose. Steadying herself, she met Evangeline's inquisitive gaze.

"Evangeline…" She spoke scarcely above a murmur, her voice tinged with hints of nerves. "I... there's one more topic I wanted to discuss. It's about Lumina's tradition that will be held at the end of the month. There's a special tradition in Lumina where my potential partner will spend a night alone together with me… That is to say intimately."

Slow understanding dawned on Evangeline, but she had to ask. "A night alone to...?"

Rebecca's voice lowered further, her gaze flickering with a blend of apprehension and anticipation. "To see if our scents intermingle."

The words seemed to shift the atmosphere in the chamber. Rebecca couldn't stop the blush spreading across her cheeks as she glanced away briefly. Even Evangeline appeared faintly flushed, her own gaze dropping momentarily to the table between them. The chamber, once filled with a calm but playful conversation, suddenly carried an underlying current of heated anticipation.

Clearing her throat, Rebecca attempted to regain her composure. "I understand this tradition may seem... unconventional. But for Lumina, it's a crucial way to gauge compatibility and ensure a strong bond between the ruling pair… It's about more than just physical attraction - the intermingling of our scents indicates a deeper level of connection, revealing whether our core essences are truly compatible."

As Rebecca delicately explained the unique tradition, Evangeline studied her intently. Her omega nature heightened her presence, allowing her to instinctively grasp the underlying emotions that Rebecca was grappling with as she spoke. "I appreciate you taking the time to explain this tradition to me, Rebecca. It's certainly... intimate in nature. But I can understand the significance it holds for your people."

A faint smile played across Evangeline's lips. "I won't lie - the prospect is somewhat daunting. However, I'm also... intrigued." Her eyes seemed to darken momentarily, that tantalizing intensity flickering to life once more. "If we're to truly unite our kingdoms, it's only fitting that we adhere to Lumina's most sacred customs."

Rebecca felt her heart rate quicken at Evangeline's words, her omega instincts keenly attuned to the subtle shift in the other woman's demeanor. There was an undeniable undercurrent of desire there, one that elicited an altogether unfamiliar ache within Rebecca - a strange, heated longing she couldn't fully comprehend yet felt undulating through her very being.

Swallowing hard, Rebecca forced herself to maintain her composure. "I'm glad you're open to it," she murmured. "I know it's... unconventional, to say the least. But I truly believe it's the best way to determine if we're truly compatible, in every sense of the word."

Even as the words left her lips, Rebecca felt a growing sense of disquiet churning within her. Discussing this tradition so frankly with Evangeline sparked an unsettling yearning in the pit of her stomach - a visceral, primal ache that both enticed and unnerved her.

Heat blossomed across her cheeks as unbidden thoughts crept into her mind. Flashes of tangled limbs, mingled breaths, and an intoxicating melding of scents. Rebecca swallowed hard, her throat feeling abruptly constricted.

What was happening to her? She hadn't been raised to embrace her omega nature, having been actively discouraged from exploring or expressing that side of herself and having to suppress her instincts at all costs.

No one had properly educated her on the intricacies of being an omega - the undeniable biological urges, the profound connection to one's scent and pheromones, the primal longing for a compatible mate that could manifest so viscerally. Her tutors had glossed over these topics, deeming them unfit for a princess's education. So Rebecca found herself utterly unprepared for the onslaught of sensations now bombarding her senses in Evangeline's presence.

Evangeline must have sensed her discomfort, for her expression grew concerned. "Are you alright, Rebecca? We don't have to discuss this further if it makes you uneasy."

"No, no... it's alright." Rebecca waved a hand, willing her composure to return. Yet even as she spoke, her pulse thundered treacherously in her ears. "It's just... I've never..." She trailed off, at a loss for words.

The faint aroma of roses that had been present through their interaction began steadily intensifying as Rebecca‘s emotional state became more heightened and her instincts took over. In her flustered state, Rebecca was losing control over regulating her scent glands. Unaware of the changes in her scent, Rebecca continued trying to find the words to explain her unease.

Highly attuned to Rebecca's apprehension, Evangeline's own essence seemed to respond. A soft, subtle fragrance of crisp citrus notes began wafting through the air in a delicate release of pheromones, mingling with Rebecca's floral bouquet.

Rebecca's gaze snapped up in surprise as the new scent washed over her senses. Evangeline's refreshing citrus fragrance seemed to help calm her emotions, and a soothing haze seemed to settle over her. It was as if Evangeline's essence had whispered words of assurance into her very being. The anxiety steadily building inside her started to ebb as she instinctively took a slow, deep breath.

"Forgive me," Evangeline said softly, her voice holding the barest hint of breathlessness. "It seems my instincts are reacting to your emotions… and scent.” A rueful smile played across her lips, though her eyes betrayed an undeniable attraction. "Even I can't fully control certain... responses when the situation calls for it."

Meeting Evangeline's concerned gaze, Rebecca managed a faint smile, appreciative of the other woman's thoughtfulness. Though she couldn't fully articulate what was happening, some deeper part of her understood and was grateful for Evangeline's gesture.

"I... thank you, Evangeline," Rebecca murmured, feeling her racing heart gradually return to a steadier rhythm. "This is all... rather new for me, I must admit. I've not been properly instructed on such… matters of my nature.”

A flush tinged her cheeks, but the open admission seemed to lift a weight from her shoulders.

Evangeline's features softened with understanding but also mild concern. You've not been properly instructed?" Evangeline asked, her tone warm but questioning. "On... omega instincts?" She paused, letting the words linger with significance.

Rebecca shook her head shyly. "No... I..." She swallowed hard. "My tutors never explained. And mother and father are not omegas. They saw no need to teach me… I didn't know my instincts could..." She trailed off, uncertain how to articulate what just happened to her.

Evangeline's brow furrowed in empathy. She could see the confusion and apprehension washing over the younger omega. With a gentleness to her voice, she spoke, "It's the omega within us, Rebecca. Our nature demands expression and acknowledgment." Compassion showed in Evangeline's eyes. "Our instincts aren't shameful, but a core part of who we are. We shouldn't suppress our essence."

She paused meaningfully before continuing. "Perhaps I could help explain. No one should have to experience these urgings without understanding. And there's no need to feel embarrassed, Rebecca. We all experience firsts that can catch us by surprise." Her hand extended across the table in a subtle offering. "If you'll allow me, I can help guide you through this. We omegas must stick together, after all."

Rebecca's fingers tentatively met Evangeline's, reveling in the grounding touch as their scents continued to intermingle soothingly around them. "I would… appreciate that, yes. If you could help me understand myself, I would appreciate that guidance, Evangeline. Thank you for your patience and kindness."

Evangeline gripped Rebecca’s hand reassuringly. “Of course, Rebecca. I’m here for you. You’re not birding me at all. I can only imagine how daunting this tradition must feel," she murmured. "Especially when discussing it with someone you've only just met.

The conversation then continued, and as they explored the significance of the tradition and its implications, the air seemed to carry a new energy. With each passing moment, Rebecca found herself opening up further, allowing Evangeline to see a glimpse into her thoughts. Time slipped away unnoticed as the pair became entranced in getting to know each other. When a natural lull settled over the conversation, Rebecca finally registered how quickly the duration had passed - her gaze darting toward the timepiece in surprise.

Turning back to Evangeline, Rebecca managed a faint smile tinged with a touch of regret. "I hadn't realized how quickly time flew by. Thank you for sharing this time with me."

"The pleasure was mine, Rebecca," Evangeline replied warmly. "I, too, have greatly enjoyed our time together today."

Unable to completely suppress the wistful feeling, Rebecca added, "I look forward to our date, Evangeline. I'm quite eager to see what you have in mind."

Evangeline's eyes softened as she responded, "Please do look forward to it. Your anticipation warms my heart, Rebecca. I promise it will be a memorable date."

By the time their discussion concluded and they left the chamber, the fragrance of roses and citrus lingered throughout the room, a tantalizing prelude to the potential start of something new.