“Rise and shine Miss Ashley.” My dear nanny says as she enters my room.

My eyes open slowly and I see that it is nearly dark outside. I must have fallen asleep for hours without knowing. I stretch and yawn looking down at my disheveled dress.

“It’s a very bad habit to be sleeping in that dress Miss Ashley.” She says reaching into my armoire for what I assume is my gown for the evening. She pulls out a pale blue gown that I have adored ever since my father brought it home from one of his travels.

“How long until the banquet begins Alice?” I ask the sweet woman.

“Not too long now Miss Ashley. It’s best you start getting ready. The king and queen expect you to be with them to welcome their guests.”

I can feel the disgruntled look on my face and Alice soon disappears not ready for a debate on why I must go to these rather awful events. ‘Is life just one large gathering after another full of drinking and games? It feels like I am wasting the good that I know is inside me on such mundane things.’

I run my fingers along the silk bodice of my gown. I know I shouldn’t act so ungrateful for the life that I do lead. I am a very strong minded princess who is allowed many more freedoms than most in my position would ever dream of. There is just something more that seems to be missing from all the material things I possess.

There is a light knock on my door and I walk quickly to answer. I peer past the door and find Aiden with his back to me.

“Princess Ashley, your father wishes me to tell you that he has some grand news for you and the kingdom. I believe it has something to do with what is to become of your future.”

“Do not tell me that tonight is when he plans to name who I shall be betrothed to. I will not follow those wishes. I can not.” I say strongly shaking my head.

“Princess, you know he means well…” He begins to say.