Chapter IV-I:

First Prince of H'arkin

From an early age, Eilane had yet another preconceived notion. Other than that beautiful people were no-good, people of the same or higher rank were also annoying.

Three years ago was the last time she had been disciplined by head maid Sonia, yet everyone around still worried about her tomfoolery. They decided that she might become more feminine and learn proper manners if she were to be engaged.

"But who would be a good match for the precocious princess?" The other servants were well-aware of her sometimes biting remarks that hit too close to home.

Just the other day, Eilane said such flowery, yet unmistakably cutting words towards a certain ambassador and two noblewomen, that these three people started crying. It was quite a scene, seeing three grown adults in that state because of an 8 year old girl.

"That's it!" Lantern lights went off in that same ambassador's head, "She would hold back if it were someone of the same rank as her!"

Everyone looked at each other and thought hard. Doesn't H'arkin have a prince who is only 2 years older than her?

Both Liberny and H'arkin were nations each rich in resources. However, a long time ago, previous rulers had tried to subjugate the other and pillage said resources. Without ever being able to make up, they continued to trade blows.

Those not privy to insider information speculated that the two nations were on capricious terms, mayhaps even on the verge of war. Thinking that, it's no wonder many hoped for an alliance. Certainly an engagement would bring unification.

The few people in-the-know understood that this was not the case though. These confrontations between Liberny and H’arkin were little more than harmless incidents.

For instance, one time Eilane’s father purposely messed with exports and sent large amounts of potatoes instead of grain. When H'arkin demanded an explanation, he just smiled brightly and said pompously, "Even kings make mistakes!" This was known as The Great Starch Debacle.

In retaliation, he was served orange pekoe instead of his favorite earl grey tea whenever he visited H’arkin. If pointed out, the other king wouldn't look him in the eye and bitterly replied "Even kings make mistakes…"

Essentially, it wasn't even on the level of petty bickering.

But without knowing all this, they all cried: "Surely, this was a match made in heaven!"

Thus initiated the event of First Princess Eilane of Liberny and First Prince Rafael of H’arkin meeting one another.