#generally my criteria are name-design-personality-history and they need at least two to be an oc and not a concept | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

chimmysoftpaws · 5 years ago

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Business and Pleasure

Summary; In which OC (Ophelia) meets her charming King. Will she be able to move past her independent mindset and fall in love? Or will the past create a rift between need and want?

Characters : OC Ophelia Odinsdottir x Medieval!King Bucky

Word count : 7800

Warnings: some fluff and interruptions

A/N: this is for @waiting4inspiration 2k writing challenge. Congrats on the milestone. Can’t wait till you achieve more. You’re writing is a amazing. DISCLAIMER: pls excuse the way it’s written and the random paragraphs. I had to find a way to make everything fit cause tumblr is a bioch. The full version is on my wattpad page 🙈

Today was the day. The day our guests would be arriving for the ’Grand Celebration’ in 5 days. At least, that's what the people think. The Royals know better. We know the real reason as to why all the Leaders and Generals of every Kingdom are here. There is a threat that wishes to take over these lands, a threat that was defeated a long time ago. For centuries we have lived in peace, now the threat of Hydra stands in the way of between us and normality.

Mother forced us to accompany Father in the Throne Room to await our guest's arrival. Loki and Thor looked irritated to be standing all evening while Hela and I enjoyed our time, conversing with Valkyrie and Lady Sif. “So Ophelia, did you find your husband in the debriefing?” Hela asked, referring to the discussion our parents sat us through regarding who will be wandering our castle. I rolled my eyes and replied, “No. None of them fit my criteria.” . “I beg to differ. If I recall correctly you were staring at a particular King.” Valkyrie added to the conversation. Lady Sif raised her eyebrows and queried, “Really, who?” “Well, it’s rather obvious isn’t it. There is only one King who is not married and that is - “. “That’s enough all of you.” I bellowed, feeling my cheeks heat up. “Is that why you’re wearing such a lovely dress, sister?” Hela interrogated, running her hand down the side of my dress. Mother and I chose a lovely satin dress with a slit in the front. It was loose with an elegant design on the chest area. “It’s a simple blue dress and I did not choose it, Mother did.”

“Her objective was to make you look ravishing for King - “ Thankfully Hela was cut off by the sound of the welcoming horns. Mother hushed us and commanded we get into positions. The doors to the Throne Room opened and one by one our guests shuffled in as their names were announced. My feet started cramping as the line of guests seemed endless. Loki glanced at me and smirked, lightly grabbing my arm and looping it through his arm. I smiled and turned back to the guests as the name-calling finally stopped. Father stood up from his throne and greeted his guests. “Welcome to Asgard. As King, I would like to welcome you on behalf of my people. I hope that your stay will be pleasant and that, when you leave this palace, we may all have found peace.” Our guests clapped and cheered at Fathers words. “Your rooms have been assigned and our attendants will show you to them. Know that all our services and vicinities are open to you. Our meetings will commence after dinner.” Our guests cheered once more and many dispersed leaving the Kings and Queens behind. I rushed down the stairs and tackled Wanda into a hug. She giggled and hugged me back saying, “Well, hello to you too.”. “I missed you. Its been months since we’ve seen each other.”. “Is she the only one you missed?” I excitedly turned around to see Nat walking towards me with her arms open. I rushed to her and hugged her. “I didn’t know you were King Steve’s right-hand WOMEN.”. “I wanted to surprise you.” She replied. “Consider me surprised.” I confessed.

“So they're the only ones you missed? I’m hurt, Princess.” I turned around to find Tony Stark looking at me with a fake hurt expression. I smiled and hugged him dramatically. “Tony, you know you’re my favourite,” I said after our long hug. I turned to Pepper and greeted her. She was never one to get involved in these things so it was refreshing to see her. “And this must be Morgan. She’s gone so big.” I waved to the seven-year-old. She hid behind her mother and smiled shyly. I smiled and continued to go around, hugging and greeting everyone. It was nice to see them again even if it was due to negative circumstances. My favourite group was definitely The Guardians. They were so diverse and did not have the right etiquette around Royals. It was entertaining to watch Mothers expression and Thor secret laughs. The last person I greeted was Steve. He smiled brightly and kissed my hand, such a gentleman. “You know that isn’t necessary, Steve.” . “I know.” Steve responded with a smile. “Yea. As far as we know, you have a wife.” Sam Wilson said, walking towards us with his King in tow. I curiously watched as he quietly observed the area. He has long brown hair, captivating blue eyes and a light beard. His face was hard yet his deep in his eyes showed slight emotion. His eyes were hard and his posture stiff. He was constantly on guard, ready for any surprises. Must be the soldier in him. “I do. I’m just polite.” Steve replied. “Ophelia, I’m assuming you’ve met Sam and this is his King and my best friend, James.” Steve introduced me to his best friends. I smiled at Sam, already knowing him after his many encounters in Asgard with my personal guard, Vision. I turned to James and greeted with a curtsy. “Good evening, King James.” . “Oh, we didn’t get such a greeting.” Sam joked. I watched James give him a look before bowing and muttering a reply. “Bucky.”

“Excuse me?” I replied. “Everyone calls me Bucky. I’m not a fan of the title.” I smiled and responded, “Well that makes two of us, Bucky.” He gave me a light smile and voice, “Shall we, Ophelia.” He held out his arm for me to take. I smiled and gently looped my hand through his, allowing him to lead me to the garden where everyone was seated for dinner. This is going to be an interesting time.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The day before the ball.

I woke up to knocking on my door. I groaned and prayed it would disappear but it only grew louder. I tried covering my face with my pillow in hopes that it would with the headache it was giving me. I stayed up all night with Wanda, Jane, Mantis, and Shuri while everyone else was discussing the Hydra threat. I got to know everyone a bit more in terms of their passions and relations. It was a rather interesting night. Mantis is... strange but in a fascinating way, Jane loves stars - and Thor-, Wanda can’t stop mentioning Vision and all of them are convinced Bucky has a crush on me and me him. Is that true? Frankly, I don’t know. It’s been a flirtatious few days but nothing more. My days had significantly grown more interesting with his presence. We’d always be miraculously seated next to each other in every meeting - the works of Mother, Hela, Nat, Sam and Wanda. He was quiet during the meetings, speaking only when spoken to, and he was always attentive, eyes analysing everyone’s expressions and actions. Outside the meetings was a different story. I’d spot him in the garden, admiring the different flowers and creatures and watching the children play in the streets from the terrace. I enjoyed talking to him. He was calm, always open to learning new things. I spent days discussing Asgard’s architecture and history. I asked about his Kingdom and he explained that it still held the infamous aura of Hydra but things were brightening. He was sweet and very charming, whether he was doing it intentionally or not, was a mystery to me. I was very good at reading people by their eyes -courtesy of Mother - but he was extremely difficult to look at without blushing, let alone read.

“YOUR MAJESTY IT IS TIME TO WAKE UP! THE SUN IS SHINING AND THE BIRDS ARE SINGING AND YOU SHOULD BE TOO!” Hela shouted, storming into my room. I heard groans on the floor and peaked down. Everyone was cuddled up in their pillows and satin sheets, miserable at Hela’s noise. “Not now sister. You’re being a terrible host.” I groaned as she pulled open my heavy curtains. “This is not my house so, frankly, I don’t care,” Hela replied, plonking onto my couch as everyone woke up. “Breakfast will be served in an hour and you have entertaining to do.” The three ladies on the floor groaned and dragged themselves out the room while I thanked them for the night. I hopped to my bathroom, happy to see the bath full of steaming water. I sunk in and bathed, making sure everything was clean before jumping out. I hummed a tune I heard playing in the streets last night as people gathered the music for the Ball tomorrow while changing into an outfit picked by my sister. “I see you’ve chosen this.” I pointed to the three quarter, velvet green dress. It was plain and easy to move around. She topped it with a short, black heel.

“Well, you’ll thank me later. Mother and Father have got quite a lot to do today and they’ll need your help.” I laughed and fixed my hair into a half updo and followed Hela out. We walked to the Dining Hall for breakfast. “Have you seen Vision yet?” I asked. I hadn’t seen my personal guard since our guests arrived. I missed his odd persona. “He, along with everyone else, is at breakfast. You’re last.” Hela replied. I blushed. Father is not going to be happy. We strolled into the hall as everyone sat and enjoyed breakfast. Father was speaking to Mother on one end of the table. Thor was with his friends - The Avengers as he called them - on the other end. Loki was conversing with Nebula. Not the safest thing. The Guardians were having their own conversation. Fury was with Carol and Maria. I walked to the empty seat next to Wanda across Bucky and Sam. They were listening to a story Thor, Steve and Tony were trying to tell. Something about the woods and trees being destroyed. Loki smirked every now and then, adding comments about what he saw in this tale. I felt Hela push me out the way and sit next to Wanda. I glared at her while she smirked and Wanda snickered. I sighed and walked to the last remaining seat, next to Bucky.“Good Morning,” I said, sitting as my attendant brought me my dish. I thanked her and picked up my utensils. “Good morning, Sleeping Beauty,” Sam replied. Bucky gave him a look before greeting me as well. “We really need to sort it your tone towards the Princess” I chuckled and stated, “Don’t worry Bucky. Sam’s a friend.” Sam smiled and raised his glass. Bucky rolled his eyes and added, “Still shouldn’t talk to you like that.” Wanda looked at me and smiled. I looked back confused. Both she and Hela raised their eyebrows and snickered. “Am I missing something?” I asked. “Nothing sister.” Hela smirked

“So Bucky, are you excited for the Ball?” Wanda asked, trying to start a conversation. “Well not really. I feel like it’ll distract us from the mission.” Hela groaned. “He’s definitely a King. They never lighten up.” . “Well, he has a point Hela. Imagine how Tony will act tomorrow night.” I voiced. “Weren’t you the one most excited for this?” Sam questioned. “Well, Sam. Ophelia just knows how to separate business from pleasure.” Bucky defended. I smiled as he winked. “Aww, you two are adorable,” Nat stated from her end of the table. Everyone suddenly stopped and listened. “Like a married couple,” Valkyrie shouted from the other end. I shot my head in her direction and gave her a look that would have her wishing she was part of the chair. “I told you, Steve,” Peggy added. “Who’s married?” Thor asked. “I called it,” Scott added.

“You owe me 20 Rhodes,” Tony said happily as Rhodes groaned. My eyes widened as my cheeks felt hot. Bucky was clenching the fork and I noticed red on his face. “This is what I was telling you,” Mantis said. “Aww, young love,” Carol added with a laugh. “Sister, I had no idea.” Loki gasped sarcastically. I quickly got up and left the hall, having lost my appetite. I didn’t look back to see Bucky following me out.

~~~~~~~~~~

The whole day I avoided Bucky. Every time I saw him, I turned the other way. I was embarrassed by everyone’s assumptions of our relationship. We were just friends, nothing more. I busied myself with preparations the entire day, making sure to isolate myself from everyone as much as possible. The sun was setting and I was running out of things to do. Wanda and Nat had already found me and declared apologies on everyone’s behalf. They also said that Bucky was miserable because he hadn’t seen me and he felt guilty. I frowned at the thought of his unhappy face. He didn’t do anything wrong, we just have a bad choice in friends. I sighed and wondered about the halls. I was bored out of my mind, only looking forward to the night as we would be having another girls night. I forgave everyone but was not ready to face the music just yet. I turned to a corridor to see Bucky walking out of his room towards me. He looked up and his eyes brightened as they saw me. I quickly turned around, pretending not to see him but he stopped me by shouting, “Ophelia, wait!” I sighed and turned back replying, “I’m sorry Bucky but I’m incredibly busy. I have to go.” I turned for the third time and tried walking away but he grabbed my arm saying, “I know that’s a lie because Nat just informed me that our presence was not needed by anyone for the rest of the night.” Bloody hell this women is asking for a death sentence. I sighed. “I’m sorry... it’s just err -“

“I know, you don’t have to explain yourself.”

“You know?”

“Yea, we have terrible friends.”

I giggled. “That’s true but they’re all we have so I guess we’re stuck with them.”

“Unfortunately. May I join you?” I hesitated. “Umm... yes of course.” What’s the worst that could happen? Bucky smiled and let go of my arm. He followed me as we wandered the castle halls. We had been doing this a lot. “I see you haven’t gotten over your fascination with the castle.” I pointed out, watching him rake his eyes over the patterns that aligned the walls. “Every time I walk, I find something new to marvel at.” He replied, glancing at me. “And some things never cease to amaze me, no matter how many times I've looked at it.” I blushed. “That’s Asgard for you. Always holding new beauties.”

“And ones that have been here all this time, hidden from the world.”

“Are we talking about the same thing?”

“I don't know, are we Princess?”

“I told you not to call me that.”

“I know but it suits you.”

“So does your title, King.”

“No, it doesn’t. I was never born to be a King.”

“Yet here you are. Ruling a land of people thought to be cursed and from what Sam has told me, you’re doing quite well.”

“I hope Sam hasn’t ruined my name, cause that’s all he seems to be doing. He can never contain his tongue.” I giggled. “It’s who Sam is.” . “Unfortunately.” Buckley smiled. He had a charming smile. White and full. It always brightened his face, his blue eyes wrinkling as he did. “Your Majesty?” “Yes?” I reacted. “You’re staring.” My eyes widened and I flushed red, great just what I needed. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright. I am guilty of the same.” I looked back at him and smiled.

“You were staring, at me?”

“How can I not?”

“Are you flirting with me, Your Highness?”

“No...I’m just being polite.” I nodded, not believing him. “Of course you are. You never mix business with pleasure.”

“I try not to. You’ve proved that to be quite difficult.”

“Have I? I apologise.” I flushed at his words. We stopped near one of the biggest terraces in the castle. It overlooked all of Asgard and further. The world was dark, the land filled with light from peoples homes. I walked outside and looked at the view. The stars shone despite its competition with the artificial light. “It really is beautiful.” “Yes, it is.” I turned to Bucky to find him already looking at me. I smiled as the wind picked up. Bucky tucked a piece of my blonde hair behind my hair and turned to the view before us. “What are you playing at, Barnes?” . “Last name basis is it?” I laughed at his dramatic statement. “Well if you must know, I’m differentiating the difference between pleasure and business.” He turned back to me and trialled his gloved fingers over my cheek. He only wore a glove on his left hand, wonder why? “Why do you wear one glove?” I asked, letting my mouth voice my thoughts. I watched his eyes darken before he turned away from me. “I’m sorry, I never meant to offend you. You don’t have to tell me. You are not obliged to” I rambled, not sure what to say. “It’s alright. Umm... it’s from a time in my life I wish to forget.” He left it at that. “Do you like horse rides?” I asked, desperately trying to change the subject. “I do.” He answered shortly. “Maybe we can go on one after the Ball. I’d like to see if you live up to the status as the fiercest warrior of all the land.” . “Is that what I’m known as around here?” He chuckled. “Well, it’s all Sam talks about when he comes. He goes on about how you raced though an army with just a horse and a sword, coming out unscathed.” Bucky lightly smacked his forehead and sighed. “Sam and I really need to have a talk about his dramatics.” I laughed. “So it’s not true?”

“It’s true but I didn’t come out of it unscathed. My horse was worse.”

“Your horse?”

“Yes, Starr. She’s a beauty but she’s very fierce. She doesn’t like people.”

“You two must be best friends.”

Bucky laughed quietly. “She’s in one of your stables. I can show her to you.”

“Really?”

“Of course. Anything for the princess.” I rolled my eyes at his sentence. “Do not do that.”Bucky smirked, “Do what love?” I shook my head and headed inside towards the stairs that would take us to the stables. Bucky jogged to catch up to me. “How do you walk so fast?”

“Years of practice in heels.”

“They are beautiful, as is your dress. It complements your transfixing eyes.”

I blushed, again. “My sisters work.”

“She has good taste but I doubt she could make such a dress look this beautiful on herself.”

“You don’t want her to hear that from you. She’ll kill you in your sleep.”

“I would say it to her face a thousand times if it means I see those gorgeous cheeks blush.” . “Bucky!” I stopped abruptly causing him to knock into me. I stumbled, tripping over my feet. I squealed as I fell towards the stairs. Bucky grabbed my waist and pulled me so that my back was to the wall and face flushed against his chest. “Are you alright?” He whispered as if out of breath. “Yes. Thank you.” I whispered back, clutching his shirt. I looked up, into his ocean orbs and smiled lightly. Bucky smiled back and let his right-hand trail through my hair, that had somehow come out of its updo, and down to my chin. I closed my eyes and as his thumb traced my bottomed lip. I bit my lip and opened my eyes to find his face closer. It was as if the world around us didn’t exist. All I could hear was his soft breathing and see his beautiful face. I glanced at his rosy lips before looking into his eyes again. I leant closer and watched as Bucky followed suit. Before I could feel his soft lips touch mine, a cough interrupted us. We quickly looked to the stairs to find Nat, Carol, Steve, Thor and Tony looking at us with huge smiles. “I told you they were up to no good,” Tony said with a giggle. I froze and stared at Thor who laughed behind the rest. Nat smirked at the two of us and said, “Let’s leave them to their... business.” “No no. Pleasure Nat. As you heard at breakfast, these two don’t mix business and pleasure.” Tony added. Carol and Steve laughed silently. It was as if his words spread through the rest of the castle because Wanda and Clint suddenly appeared with Sam and Rhodey in tow. “Aww, yea man. I knew it would happen.” Sam shouted to Bucky. Bucky groaned and hid his face in my neck. I giggled and pushed him away slightly. “Did we miss something?” Loki came around with Hela. “Sister was making out with the Soldier.” Thor's voice boomed through the already formed group. “Finally,” Hela said.

“Yes, you two were taking quite long.”

“I expected it to happen on day one.” I looked at my siblings with a shocked expression. “Alright, let's leave them alone.” Steve walked towards Bucky and smacked his shoulder. “But they’re right, you did take long bud.” Bucky huffed and pulled me away from everyone as they cheered for us. “Don’t forget about tonight, O!’ Wanda clapped. “That is if he doesn’t keep you occupied!” Carol added. “Not that we mind, we don’t,” Peggy stated. I picked up the paced, wanting to get as far away from them. Once we were near my room I stopped. “I’m sorry.” We both said simultaneously. We laughed as Bucky pulled me towards the opening. I sat on the ledge and sighed, “This has been the most embarrassing moment of my life.” “Honestly I’ve had worse. Bear in mind, Sam is my friend.” I giggled as Bucky walked towards me, his hand on my mine. “It was fun though.” “It was but I’m assuming you’re needed in your room. You don’t want to be keeping the ladies waiting.” I sighed and pouted. “I don’t think they deserve my presence. What will you do?” Bucky chuckled. “Knowing MY friends, we’ll probably be out drinking our hearts away.” I shook my head. “Men.” I hopped off the windowsill and grabbed Bucky’s hands. “I guess this is goodbye for now.” . “For now.” I walked in the opposite direction of Bucky, our hands lingering together. I turned to him while he stared at me with those adorable puppy eyes. I got on my toes and pecked his cheek, letting my lips linger for a second longer. I could feel his check spread with a warmth. “Goodnight.”

“...Goodnight.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bucky's P.O.V

I watched as Ophelia walked away from me, her beautiful green dress swaying with her hips as her heels clicked against the floor. Her hair flowed in the direction of the wind, her scent coming towards me. I bit my lip as I touched my cheek, still feeling her lips on me. I felt a smile spread on my face as she disappeared from my view and turned to find Steve and the other men. I found them outside with their horses. I saw Starr and took her reins, walking towards Steve. “Ah, lover boy is here,” Sam said. “Finally, though I thought you’d last longer,” Tony stated. “Tony that’s not necessary.” Steve reprimanded. “Yes, that’s my sister you’re talking about,” Thor said, cracking his knuckles. “We didn’t do anything if that’s what you’re all wondering. We just talked.” . “Yes, very intimate conversations,” Loki said with a smirk. “Well, let’s head out, the night does not last forever.” Vision said, getting upon his horse. Everyone else cheered and followed suit. I got upon my horse and thanked Vision. He replied with a smile and lead the party of men to the bar where we could take the opportunity to let go before the big day tomorrow yet no matter how much I drank, I could not forget those grey-blue eyes and the bright, wide smile of the Princess of Asgard. Maybe everyone’s assumptions were true, maybe I have found my Queen.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ophelia’s P.O.V

I walked into my room to find all the ladies lounging in my room. Looking at it, I didn’t know my room was that big. “You’re back!” Peggy said. I sighed and walked to my room to change into my white nightgown and blue robe. “Did you two have fun?” Hela asked with a glass of red wine in her hand as I sat at the edge of my bed. Wanda and Nat sat on the bed with me. Hela sat on her own couch. Carol and Valkyrie sat of the two-seated couch. Peggy and Pepper on the other across them, Jane on the windowsill cushion and Nebula, Gamora and Mantis on the fluffy carpet. “We did not do anything. We just talked.” . “I don't believe you.” Carol said with a smirk. “Well then that’s a you problem.” I snapped. “Oh lighten up, O. You guys are cute.” Nat assured. I pouted. “I think she’s upset that we interrupted them.” Wanda added. “Am not!” I whined. “You so are.” Jane giggled. “Can we please change the subject.” I pleaded. “No! We want to know more about your intimacy with the Soldier.” Gamora said. Everyone nodded, agreeing with her. “Nothing. We’ve been talking. THAT’S ALL.”

“Well what is he like?” Pepper asked.

“You know what he's like.”

“Oh please sister. Every man acts different with the one he loves and his friends.”

“He loves you? Oh joy! You’re babies will be beautiful.” Mantis gushed. I blushed at her words. “He does not love me.” . “You don't know that.” Val said. “He’s a man. They are terrible when it comes to sharing emotions.” . “Where’s Okoye and Shuri?” I said, desperately trying to change the subject. “Shuri is very tired from todays activities and Okoye is doing guard business. She didn’t want to go away from her duties. Now don't change the subject.” Nat said as the tray of various foods came towards me. I grabbed three chocolate cookies and a glass of wine from the centre table. “I swear we didn’t do anything.” . “Fine we believe you. Now tell us what the famous Winter Soldier is like?” Jane asked. “Fine but after that we go to something else.” . “Promise.” Wanda said. I sighed. “He’s... dreamy.” The girls laughed as I glowed. “He’s kind and charming. He’s always complimenting me and always makes sure I’m comfortable. He’s curious, always asking me about Asgard and our family.” “Did you tell him the truth?” Hela asked.

“Yes. I did. Anyways, we just got to know each other. I promised to take him on a ride through Asgard’s forest.” . “Look at you making the first move.” Val cheered. I giggled. “What about the kiss?” Mantis asked. “Was it satisfactory?” Nebula spoke for the first time. I smiled. “We did not kiss because Natasha interrupted us.” . “NAT!” Peggy and Pepper groaned.

“It was unintentional, I swear.”

“Can we move on now - “

“No. Did you kiss him anywhere else?” Hela pressed.

“.... maybe.”

“HAH, YOU DID.” Wanda jumped on my bed, almost dropping my glass. “Hey, these covers we’re expensive.” Wanda sat, blushing. “To end this torture, I did kiss him BUT only on the cheek. That’s it.” Everyone awed and began complimenting me on our cuteness and Mantis continuously spoke of our future children. “Okay I get it. Now I have a question.” Everyone quietened as they waited for me to ask my question. “Does everyone know that Wanda has been snogging Vision since we got here?” Wanda squealed and tried tackling me but it because was too late. Everyone broke out into a series of shouts in shock. I smiled as she went as red as her nightgown. “Is that who you’re going with tomorrow night?” Hela asked. I nodded for her as she tried smacking my head. I giggled and caught her arm. “Well... who are you all going with?” Wanda mumbled. Everyone tired speaking at once but I quickly hushed them as to not wake the whole castle up. “We all know who’s going with who. Peggy and Steve.” Peggy smiled at the mention of her husband. “Pepper and Tony.” Pepper rolled her eyes playfully. “Nat and Bruce.” . “Why would you think that?” Nat asked, trying to play dumb. “Oh please Natasha, we’ve seen you and the shy boy.” Hela said laughing. “All sheepish glances and stolen kisses.” Nat blushed and grabbed a new bottle of wine. I laughed as she poured a full glass and continued. “Jane and Thor as they have also been snogging ever since she got here.” Jane blushed and chucked a pillow at me. “How would you know?” . “I have eyes and ears everywhere. This is my castle, the secret passages are everywhere.” Jane sighed as if giving up with this conversation. “Oh and Gamora is being accompanied by Peter Quill.” Gamora’s eyes shot to me in anger. “How would you know?” . “Your sister told Loki who told me. Never trust Loki to keep secrets from me.” Gamora looked at her sister and tackled her to the floor, her hands around her neck. I gasped as Val and Carol tried to pull them apart. Hela laughed and Peggy and Pepper tried to calm the situation down with their Queen words of wisdoms. After 10 minutes of shouting, laughing, fists and Wanda, Mantis and I sitting on my bed, munching on goods, things calmed down. “Is everyone calm?” Peggy asked. She was met with silence. “Good, now let’s all breath and continue to relax. Nat, hand them a cup of wine to calm the fire in them.” Everything calmed down from there. “Its the sister in them, isn’t that right O.” I nodded, agreeing with Hela. “We fought like crazy.”

“You almost threw me off a bridge.”

“You were being a brat.”

“I was 8.”

“And you were a terrible 8-year-old.” I chucked my book at Hela. Before she could throw her heel at me, Pepper shouted, “That’s enough! There will be no more sister squabble.” Hela and I rolled our eyes and smirked. “She doesn’t understand.” Gamora and Nebula smirked as well. “Anyways back to the dates.” Jane said, trying to move the conversation back to where we left off. “Yes. Hela, Mantis, Nebula, Carol, Valkyrie and I are going alone.” I continued. “I know Mantis, Nebula and I are but Carol and Valkyrie have had other plans...together.” Hela said as the two blushed and glanced at each other. I smiled widely as Hela continued. “And you sister, you’re going with Barnes.”

“He didn’t ask me.”

“He doesn’t have to. He’s a man remember. They’re not good at expressing their emotions.”

“You really think he wants to go with me?”

“Of course he does. If he doesn’t, we’ll make an example out of him.” Gamora said. I laughed and thanked her. “But if he is in love with you then he will want more than for you to just be his date tomorrow. He would want you to be his Queen.” Mantis voiced. I choked on my wine as everyone nodded their heads. “It is very obvious. He is not good at hiding his feelings for you.” Nebula added.

“Umm...”

“Better start thinking about marriage sister.”

“At least Father gets his wish.”

“To hell with Father. This is for you. Do you wish to marry him?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t thought that far.”

“You’ll have to if you want to be ready when he pops the big question and he just might, at any time. Remember, he’s a man therefore he also has terrible timing.” Everyone laughed at Hela’s statement in agreement and continued to drown themselves in wine and food. Tonight was going to serve us all a huge headache.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Night of the Ball.

“Ophelia, may I come in?” I heard from the other side of the door. I had been in my room since after lunch, preparing for the Ball. Frankly, this was not my choice but Mother wanted me - and my brothers - to look perfect. I smiled, remembering Thor and Loki’s groans of complaints as Mother forced us into our rooms to get ready. I had been in here for 4 hours washing and making sure every cell was spotless. My nails were a Livid Colour, to match my dress. My hair had been curled and styled to Mothers liking. Thank the Gods we had a similar taste in clothing and hair or things would’ve much more difficult. “Come in.” Wanda and Nat walked into my room with random gowns on. Attendants walked behind them carrying their gowns, shoes and jewellery for the night. The door closed and they took off their gowns replacing them with silk robes. “You two seem excited.”

“I just want to get drunk.”

“I can’t wait to dance.”

“You guys do realise we are not going to be allowed to ‘have fun’. We have responsibilities.”

“Our responsibilities won’t take all night,” Nat said taking a seat of the single couch and stretching. “Besides, I didn’t get this pretty for nothing.” Wanda nodded in agreement. “What time are we meant to be down?” I asked. “In 2 hours.” Nat answered. “Great.” I walked to my bed, where Wanda was sitting with her nail filer and pulled out my book. “Are we just going to sit here for 2 hours?” Wanda asked. I nodded, turning the page. “Absolutely not.” Nat interrupted. “We have to get ready. I have to do your make up Ophelia and your hair Wanda AND we still have to get dressed and be downstairs, ready when the doors open to the civilians. That will take 2 hours. So let’s begin.” Nat pulled Wanda to my vanity table and began doing her hair. I glanced up every now and then to see Wanda’s hair being pulled in different directions and Nat using strange products. “Done.” Wanda walked got up with a smile and hugged Nat, thanking her for her magical hands. “You’re turn.” She said, taking my place on the bed as I moved to the vanity table. Nat stared at my face for 10 minutes before pulling out various brushes, powders and shades of different colours and began touching my face with different objects. 20 minutes later my face was done. I turned to the mirror and gleamed. My face was a canvas of perfection. I giggled and hugged Nat. “I look... extraordinary. Thank you, Nat.” . “Oh darling, it was no problem. I want to make sure Barnes doesn't take his eyes off you.” I blushed at her words. “Not that you need it. You’ve had Barnes wrapped around your finger since the moment you laid eyes on each other.” . “Time for dresses.” Wanda squealed, pulling her dress out. Her dress as red - her signature colour - with a dip in the front as it flared to the ground. The dress was decorated with leaves from the top and spread to the middle of her dress and was matched with black high heels. “Wanda, if your objective was to captivate Vision, then you, my friend, have succeeded,” I said as she walked to my folding screen to get dressed. “Nat, let me see yours,” Nat smirked and pulled out a sexy black dress. It was satin as if started at her breasts with a slit that runs to her mid-thigh and topped with a belt at her waist. It was paired with red heels “Nat this stunning.” . “Yes, now let's see your dress princess.” I smiled shyly and asked to my closet, grabbing my dress and laying it out on the bed. Nat gasped. “It’s gorgeous.”

“What? What did I miss?” Wanda asked, stumbling towards us. She smiled at my dress. “Your Mother went all out, I see.”

“She did, didn’t she. Is it too much?”

“Too much? It's just enough. You are going to be the centre of attention. This is why mothers have daughters so that they can dress them up like life-sized dolls.” Nat sat, putting the dress to my body. “Go and put it on.” I did as told, trying to keep my hair and makeup perfect, and walked back. The girls smiled as Wanda twirled me around, my dress spreading as it moved with me. Nat handed me my white heels and sprayed our skin with perfume. “I’m so excited.” I gushed as we headed to the door. I opened it to find Vision nervously pacing in his uniform. It was less constricting due to the lack of armour but still had that Asgardian touch to it. He stopped pacing once we walked out and his face was priceless. His jaw hung and his eyes wide. I followed them to none other than a blushing Wanda. “Y-You look...breathtaking.” He stuttered. “I...I mean you all do, Your Majesty, it’s just...” . “It’s alright Vision,” I said as Wanda glided towards him. They exchanged shy words while Nat and I smirked at their not-so-secret conversation. “Wanda, I know you and Vision are having a moment but we’re going to be late,” Nat stated, walking past the two of them with me in tow. I smiled as the two as they rushed to us, Vision rushing to walk in front of Nat. “M’lady, the guests have arrived and your family is waiting for your arrival to begin the... celebration.” Vision muttered while Wanda and Nat slipped into the hall. I nodded and let Vision lead me to my family. Mother stood with her foot tapping anxiously as she waited for me. “Where have you been?”

“I’m sorry Mother. Love has no track of time.”

“Just because you have a boyfriend doesn’t mean you get leeway,” Loki said with a smirk.

“It was not me.”

“We don’t have time for this. Both of you get ready.” Mother ushered us to the entrance door. Sounds and voices could be heard as we entered the room. Cheers could be heard from all directions as Father sat on his throne and Mother, Thor, Loki and I took our positions beneath him. I scanned the crowd to see to find Bucky standing near Steve. They were quietly conversing, glancing at me ever so often. I smiled as Bucky kept his eye on me. Steve chuckled at our silent exchange and gave me a quick wink before focusing his attention to Father. I turned my attention back to Bucky drowning out father’s speech to the crowd. He looked very handsome in his black dress coat with his white buttoned-up shirt. His hair was jelled back nicely and his beard was trimmed to perfection. “Let the celebration of the lands begin.” I heard Father say as people cheered. Bucky clapped, keeping his eyes on me and mine on him. Everyone dispersed to the dance floor as Bucky walked towards me. I smiled, descending down the stairs. “Goddammit doll, you look... amazing. Beautiful. Ravishing. Gorgeous.” Bucky gushed, taking my hand and spinning me around. I giggled, “Bucky, you’re making me dizzy.” Bucky stopped and pulled me to his chest. “I just wanted to see how my princess looked from all angles.”

“Oh, so I’m YOUR princess?”

“Of course.” I smiled and shook my head. “Well, just so you know, this princess loves to be spoiled.” He pulled me closer and whispered in my ear. “Don’t worry doll, I’ll spoil you in every way imaginable.” I blushed and hid my face in his chest. “Shall we dance?” I nodded before he pulled me to the dance floor. We twirled along too the music, our feet following the melody. I watched as all our friends danced, along with other guests. Father and Mother smiled in my direction while we danced. People stopped dancing and gossiped about the couples, I could hear faint comments about Bucky and me. I couldn’t care what anyone said or thought. All I could see was Bucky. His beautiful ocean eyes and his bright smile. His laugh, his jokes and his charm were all my ears could hear. “Tell me, princess, do you ever desire to be more?”

“More than?”

“More than just a princess?”

“Well, I don’t know. I’ve never had the chance to think about it. My father always made decisions for me. If I had to think about it, really think about it, I’d love to be independent and free. I know it’s not much but for people like me, it’s hard to come by.”

“I understand. So, I’m assuming being a Queen is not your idea of freedom.”

“Not exactly but we can’t have everything. If I was a Queen, I’d be able to make my own decisions and see the world. I’d be included in the important things and be taken seriously. Unfortunately, that would only happen because of my husband.”

“I’d let you be independent. I wouldn’t force you to depend on me.”

“You would?”

“Umm....y-yes. My apologies, I never meant to be so forward.”

“No, it’s alright. I like a man who can picture his future. Tell me, what does your future look like, Bucky?”

“My future... is you.”

“Now you’re definitely mixing business with pleasure.”

“It’s not my fault. My business is exceptionally pleasurable.”

“Is it?”

“Yes. Though, I’d never marry you for business purposes.”

“So, I’m just pleasure?”

“You’re an image of my greatest dreams coming true.” Bucky spun me around and moved his hands to my waist. He picked my body up and spun us around. I gasped in surprise, grabbing his biceps while Bucky laughed. Once I was back on my feet, Bucky pulls me flush against him after placing my hands around his neck. I played with the hairs by his neck, placing my head on his chest where his heart was. I sighed softly as I listened to his heartbeat while running my nails through the shorter hair. Bucky groaned softly as he rested his head onto of mine, his soft lips grazing my forehead. His fingers traced figures on it back, causing shivers to run up my spine. We danced in silence for two songs, enjoying each other’s company before I lifted my head up from his chest and spoke,” So, about this whole marriage thing -“

“You don’t have to say anything. I was overstepping.”

“No. No, you weren’t, it just caught me off guard is all. I’ve never discussed this with anyone other than my sister, Nat and Wanda. No one else really cared for my opinion. I was always told to listen to my father because he knew what was best. I’ve also never spoken to someone who can make it happen.”

“Well, I’d love to talk more about it with you. If you’ll have me?”

“I’d love to and I’m sure my father will be satisfied.”

“It doesn’t matter what your father thinks or wants.”

“Pray he didn’t hear you.”

“You’ll protect me, right princess?”

“Of course. I’ll never pass up a chance to save you.” Bucky chuckled and pulled me towards him, kissing my cheek lightly. “As long as I get to save you as well.” I blushed as his lips lingered on my cheek. After a while, Bucky and I stopped dancing, grabbed drinks and walked to Wanda. She was flirting with Vision, distracting him from his duties.

“Look at you two.” Wanda blushed and snatched a drink from a passing tray. “We weren’t doing anything.”

“We didn’t say you were.” Bucky and I chuckled as Wanda groaned, hiding her face in Visions chest. Before I could continue my teasing, a clink of a glass quietened the buzz-filled room. “I would like to make a toast,” Father announced. “To new alliances, new beginnings, new love.” Father glanced at Bucky and I. I groaned while Bucky and Wanda laughed silently. “This celebration tonight is to announce -“ Father couldn’t finish his sentence as he was interrupted by the sound of the glass window on the far left, shattering. People screamed as guards stormed in with warriors from the other kingdoms, drawing their weapons to protect the Royals. Bucky pulled me behind him as Vision drew their weapons. The room fell silent, everyone alert from another unwanted sound. Father walked to the window, guards in tow. He picked the thrown object up and inspecting it. I walked to Father, Bucky right behind me, and peered at the object. It was a rock - a big one - with a note attached to it.

It read ”time to pay up.”

I looked at Father as his face paled. Mother and Thor rushed towards him as he stumbled back. “He needs to sit.” Mother said, ordering the guards to bring a chair. Father huffed and sighed as he fell into the chair. ”Mother... the people.”

“Everybody remain calm... there’s nothing to worry about.” As Mother said that, an arrow flew through the window on the right, landing in the pillar close to Steve's head. Hela grabbed the arrow from the pillar and examined it. People screamed and started running in a different direction. Steve and Tony walked to the now-broken window and peered out. Thor shook his head, walked to Father's throne and shouted, “EVERYBODY QUIET!” The room fell silent, no one moving a muscle. “Close the doors. NOBODY LEAVES.” The guards shut all the doors, blocking all exits.

“What does the note say?” Carol asked as we all walked to Hela.

“I can’t read this...” Hela said. “It’s coded.”

“Let me see.” Bucky said, taking the paper and translating. His eyes widened and his hand tightened around mine. “It says... ‘There’s nowhere to hide.’ “

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