I Love You, My Cursed Prince

This morning would be stressful. Muriel hoped she didn't embarrass her mistress.

They were preparing for a trip to the Royal Palace, where the king and his immediate family resided. Prince Vidar Petran, Princess Arya's younger son, would normally be required to make appearances at the Royal Court once a year. Since he was mostly stuck in bed, his mother had to represent him. That meant that Muriel would be there too. The princess had kindly taught her basic court etiquette, but Muriel was still worried.

One main concern the princess had was repeating to Muriel over and over that unless she was being directly addressed by a member of the royal family, she shouldn't make direct eye contact with them. That seemed peculiar, but Muriel saw no reason to disobey.

She also had to wear the most formal, most impractical, brightest and laciest clothing in her wardrobe. Her skirts were only slightly narrower than the princess', only slightly. Packing it all away was a challenge. When Muriel was in her nicest traveling dress, Princess Arya asked to have a private conversation with her. So, Muriel let the princess into her bedroom.

Princess Arya balanced herself on a stool. Her skirts drooped on each side of her body. Her eyes were low. "Muriel, you must obey me. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Madam," Muriel said automatically as she sat on an ottoman.

"This is extremely crucial," said the princess. "You must listen and obey."

Slowly nodding, Muriel agreed. "Yes, Madam. I have no reason to misbehave. You've been too good to me."

Princess Arya sighed so heavily that her bosom seemed to jiggle. "Muriel, when you are at the palace, you must stay close to me. No matter what anyone says, you must be close to me. Do you understand?"

"Your Highness, are you concerned that I might damage your reputation?"

The princess looked away. "Don't let yourself be alone with any man. I truly mean any man."

"Oh, have I done something to have you doubt me?"

"Damn it, Muriel!" The princess actually hit her silk and linen covered t.h.i.g.h with a tight fist. "I trust you! The people living in the palace are a different matter!"

"Oh!" Muriel's eyes were incredibly wide. "Then I must thank you for thinking of my safety."

"I don't care for that flattery. I want you to promise to be cautious and obey me."

Nodding again, Muriel agreed. "I'll stay as close as you demand. I'll obey any command you give me, and I certainly will do everything I can to never be alone with a man while I'm in the palace."

Princess Arya stood up and thanked Muriel for her time. Then she left the bedroom.