#njord sprigdragon

[runaway-royals]

"Of course, my princess." Alexander smiled, taking the seat beside her as Lucas performed for everyone.

"I'm certainly glad the gods blessed us that night." He replied, placing a kiss on his bride's hand.

"Maybe it should become a little tradition since it worked well for us."

The prince mused as Luke finished the song and noticed how enthusiastic Anna was.

"Well, Lu definitely caught her attention."

Njord chuckled and nodded, downing his own beverage as the guests followed his lead, as they chatted the Nordic phase.

Kori laughed, tapping her glass with her family before taking a sip as the bard continued to play.

Soon after Mei quietly approached the newlyweds.

"Forgive me Your Majesties, but it is time for your first dance."

Alexander nodded at the maid before thanking her then looking Nana.

"May I have this dance, my lady?"

The Mason siblings cheered as the royal couple took the floor.

"I wonder what song they chose."

Devon thought aloud as Little Sisa babbled the demanding more cake.

"Oh... oh, right... Anna!" Nana widened her eyes at Charlie's reply, laughing at the little misunderstanding. "I see... I think that would be lovely too! They seem to fancy each other!" The princess mused, letting out a soft giggle. As Alexander pulled out the chair for her, Nana smiled up at her husband, taking her seat. "Thank you, my love."

Just as everyone had started to enjoy their meal, Lucas entered the hall, accompanied by a bard, and much to Nana's surprise and delight, they started playing the song from her and Alexander's first meeting, the day they were both undercover at the village's tavern. "They really do, my love!" The princess beamed, feeling Alexander's arm around her, and she rested her head on his shoulder while her hand searched for his, lacing their fingers together. "Looking back, who would have guessed we'd be here today? Happily married, surrounded by both our families!" She mused, looking up to place a kiss upon her husband's cheek.

Who also watched the performance with particular attention and admiration was Anna, whom Nana could swear cheered the loudest once it came to an end. Then, King Njord took it upon himself to thank the performers and do a short, yet deeply moving speech, which pleased the Emperor. "May both our legacies prosper together, my friend." Raiden added, also raising his glass. "Skol!"

[runaway-royals]

Charlie snickered at Nana's question.

"Well, I technically meant Anna, but who knows, Hunter... isn't much of a committed type, but he's never been this affectionate towards a girl aside from Sunny's mother, so it's possible we may get another sister!"

He replied as they follow they're family to the table.

"What were you two whispering about?" Hunter asked as Alexander pulled out the chair for Nana.

"Nothing, Big Brother, just congratulating the happy couple."

The younger prince answered as he began preparing his plate.

After everyone was settled, the bard appeared along with Luke.

"This is a little something for the newlyweds. Congrats on tying the knot!"

He said, making everyone laugh as he began to play the song from Nana and Alexander's first meeting.

The groom smiled hearing the melody as he wrapped his arm around his wife.

"The Masons really remember everything, don't they?"

He mused touched by the thoughtful gesture.

Meanwhile, Hunter spent most of the performance watching Kori with her family humming along to the tune but quickly looked anyway as the guests cheered once the other young man was finished.

"That was beautiful, Lu." Kori grinned as the brother sat down. "I wouldn't be surprised if you just caught yourself some new admirers"

The maid teased as Luke rolled his eyes just as the Nordic ruler made an announcement.

"Thank you for that wonderful piece, Lucas. It warms my heart to see my boys in such talented company.

It also brings me great joy and honor to unite our house with another, such as the Serizawa empire, I pray the gods bless everyone here with good future and endless happiness!"

Njord exclaimed raising a glass. "Skol!"

"Skol!" The guests replied, downing their drinks.

"So do I, my love." Nana grinned happily at her husband, letting him take her hand and guide her to the great dining hall, in order to greet their guests. "Thank you so much, Your Majesty! It is my honor to become a part of your family as well." The princess smiled at her father-in-law, as he and Alexander's younger brothers congratulated them. Then, she laughed at Charlie's comment. "Two? You mean... Hunter and Kori…?" She asked in a low voice, so only the young prince could hear her, letting out a soft giggle and feeling happy for her best friend, had it been the case that she'd also found love.

"Thank you so much, Kori!" Nana beamed, accepting the drink and taking a sip, and their comments about Takumi made her laugh. "Even Takumi knows when to yield from a battle... and he never stood a chance against my Viking prince!" Nana replied, looking up at Alexander, her eyes full of love and admiration.

Taking his place at the table, the Emperor gave the order for the feast to begin, and the servants brought out all the delicious food that had been previously selected by the newlyweds — a mix of Japanese and Nordic cuisine, as well as the strawberry wedding cake.

[runaway-royals]

"I certainly look forward to that." Alexander grinned, taking his bride's hand as they made their way to meet their guests before spotting Raiden as they walked through the door.

"Thank you, Your Highness. It is a great honor."

The prince replied as his father and brothers greeted the couple.

"Congratulations, you two, the ceremony to beautiful, and we are overjoyed to have you as a part of our family, Nana."

Njord said proudly as the younger princes hugged the pair.

"Yes, we've always wanted a sister, now we have two!"

Charlie exclaimed as Toby laughed in agreement while Kori brought some beverages to the newlyweds.

"Cheers to the happy couple! You both did amazing!"

She smiled.

"You did! I'm honestly surprised Ichinose didn't try objecting or something."

Hunter joked as Kori laughed.

"Hey Takumi, isn't that big of a jerk. Well, not most of the time anyway."

Nana smiled at Alexander's response, and following his lead, she also picked up the other ring, carefully placing it on her prince's finger. "Alexander Snapdragon, with this ring, I thee wed." She proclaimed, overflowing with emotion, so much that her dark eyes teared up once more. Having reached the end of their wedding ritual, the priest finally allowed them to seal their vows with a kiss. Looking up at Alexander, Nana welcomed his kiss, also placing her hand on his cheek, lovingly caressing it. It was only then that she heard the cheers of the crowd, visibly happy with their union, and she smiled against his lips. "Yes, husband. Let's go." The princess chuckled softly. "It really does... and now I can call you husband everyday too!" She added cheerfully.

Hand in hand, the newlyweds made their way to the great dining hall, where an enormous feast awaited them and all the guests. "Welcome to the family, Alexander." The Emperor greeted his new son-in-law warmly.

[runaway-royals]

Alexander nodded at the emperor's words.

"I will, Sir. I promise I'll do actually that." He replied gently, caressing Nana's hands as the priest began the service.

"They look amazing, Alex's reaction was even better than I imagined!" Kori whispered, seating next to the remaining Sprigdragons who grinned and nodded in agreement.

"They really do, Nana looks like someone straight off of a fairy tail." Njord replied, happy for the young couple.

"We gather here together today to witness the sacred union between Prince Alexander Snapdragon and Princess Nana Serizawa.

Alexander, do you swear to honor and cherish Nana in sickness and in health, for better or worse, so long as you both shall leave?"

The old man asked as all eyes fell onto the prince, but for him, the only one he was focused was his bride.

"I do and for every life after this one." He answered confidently.

"Good answer, Son." The priest mused as awes and laughter filled the room with many guests tearing up at Alexander's sweet reply.

"And do you Nana take Alexander as your husband, to have and to hold in for richer or poorier so long as you both shall live?"

"Aww! Really? They did an amazing job! I'll make sure to thank them later!" Nana grinned, taking a better look at the pretty flowers around her neck. Then, her friend's comment made her giggle. "Oh, by the gods! Yeees! And I can't wait to see Alex!" The princess admitted, blushing a little and giggling some more, her excitement growing by the minute.

Taking a deep breath once the doors opened, Nana's grip on her father's arm became a little tighter, seeking some comfort to face the immense crowd of guests that had gathered from around the Empire and its allied countries to attend her and prince Alexander's union. "You're doing fine, my little dragon. I'm so proud of you." Raiden whispered, making the princess smile. And as they made their way towards the altar, Nana's eyes met Alexander's, and all she could do was smile even more. He looked so beautiful, and seemed truly happy to see her, just as much as she was happy to see him there, waiting for her to become his wife. And in that moment she knew, there was nothing she wanted more in the world. "So do you, my love!" She returned her prince's compliment, as the priest began the ceremony. "Her mother and I do." The Emperor replied, with confidence and pride in his voice. Then, he kissed his daughter's forehead and placed her hand in Alexander's hand. "I trust you with one of my most precious treasures. Take good care of my little girl." Raiden advised, and with a polite bow of his head, retreated to his seat, next to the crown prince and the Empress. Smiling, Kenji gave his sister an encouraging nod. Anna, who stood among the bridesmaids, did the same.

And with this, the priest proceeded with his customary words — a beautiful speech, indeed! But in all her excitement, all the princess could focus on was the blue in Alexander's eyes, and the gentle touches their hands exchanged, and she couldn't wait for the priest to ask her the utmost question!

[runaway-royals]

"I think so too, especially if you're not into sharing partners."

Kori replied.

"Not one for open relationships, huh Darlin?" Hunter joked, earn an amused looked from the maid.

"You are more than welcome to be in one Greenie. It just won't be with me."

She shot back with a wink as the three other Sprigdragons laughed.

"Looks like you finally met your match, Sprigs."

Alexander teased, turning his attention to Kenji.

"Well, much like it is here, Nordic men are encouraged to... spread their genetics so open relationships are more customary than closed ones."

He explained as his younger brothers nodded.

"Our uncle has quite a few kids with different women, we only met a few ourselves."

Charlie replied, taking over the question as Alexander returned his attention to the princess.

"That sounds like a nice idea, which reminds me there's something I wanted to show once everyone goes home for the evening if you don't mind."

Soon, the night began to wind down, and the guests exited the palace.

.

"Good night Raiden it's always a joy catching up with you all!" Papa said, patting the emperor on the back before turning to the Nordic king.

"It was also it pleasure to meet you too Njord, your boys are all fine young men, maybe my granddaughter might join your lovely family one day."

He joked as Njord chuckled.

"We would be honored, Sir, but we should let Nana and Alexander have their special day first.

The king replied Kori turned bright red.

"Papa!" She scolded as Hunter smiled at the thought.

"I call dibs on best man!" Toby announced as Charlie scuffed. "You know that not how that works, and Hunter pick me!" He exclaimed, adding to the teasing.

Alexander snickered tapping her on the shoulder.

" Kori, do you happen to have that thing I asked you to hold to?"

He asked as she nodded, pulling out colorful braided cord from her pocket, handing it to the prince.

"Of course, here you go, Blue! I'm still surprised you asked me to watch it for you."

"Well, you are Nana's best friend. Not to mention his would have turned out a different if weren't for you, so it seems only fitting."

Kori pouted happily, hugging her friend.

"Awe, Alex! I'm so happy it all worked out the way it did, and I hope you two the amazing future I know you deserve!"

Alexander grinned hugging her back.

"Thank you, Kori, really. We'll see you first thing tomorrow."

He replied saying to the emperor before turning to his bride.

"You would mind following me outside for a moment, My Lady?"

“I can understand.” Kenji smiled and nodded at Kori’s explanation. It was the same for him and his sisters — they’d kill and die for each other any day. “I can also see the appeal of monogamous relationships… devoting oneself to only one person seems way easier and much more drama-free than having to simultaneously take care of the needs of many wives.” The prince mused. “Maybe I should consider it one day. Not for now, though!” He added with a chuckle, turning to the Nordic princes. “How is it for you back home?”

Meanwhile, Nana chuckled with Alexander. “It’s never easy being the older sibling, my love!” She mused, gently caressing his hand. “Oh, I see… I’m not a fan of big crowds either, or too much attention.” The princess confessed. “Maybe we can try to escape the party earlier?” She suggested, letting out a soft laugh, and Toby’s comment made her blush. “Not at all!” Nana answered Kori’s question, visibly amused.

As it was already getting late, the guests started to leave the great dining hall, but not before saying good night to the Emperor and the soon-to-be wedded couple, giving them their best wishes.

[runaway-royals]

Alexander grinned, taking Nana's lead as they began to dance.

"I almost forgot how beautiful your voice is when you sing Love."

He said, spinning her. "Very happy, Princess." He replied, pecking her cheek.

"We would definitely enjoy it if she chose to tag along!"

Charlie replied, noticing the slight change in the fellow prince's demeanor.

"Are you okay, Kenji?" The youngest asked quietly so the others wouldn't hear them.

Hunter hummed, kissing Kori back, pulling draping his arms around her.

"If I had knewn, that's all it would take I would've done so earlier."

The royal teased as the maid scrunched her nose at him.

"Don't push it, Greenie." She warned as He chuckled at the name nickname as the pair spotted Takumi's friends about to enter the bar.

"Hi guys, I didn't see you there." Kori said, turning slightly red.

"We can see why. Wait until Tak and Ann find out you're getting all cozy with the Njord kid!"

One man jokingly threatened as Kori rolled her eyes.

"Go ahead, it's not Takumi gonna care." She shot back as Hunter rested his hand on her shoulder.

"Have a good night, guys." He mused as the group went inside and Kori's grandma poked her head out the door.

"Honey, would you and your friend mind me with something?"

The princess hummed softly, enjoying the gentle touch of Alex's fingers on her hair, and she rested her cheek upon his shoulder. "I'm sure I will... and when I win, do you know what your punishment will be?" She asked, applying another kiss to his neck. "A dance! Like this!" Nana let out a soft giggle, gently placing her hands on the prince's back, swaying slightly in a sort of slow dance, humming one of her favourite songs.

After a while, she looked up at him, without breaking their embrace. "Are you happy, my love?"

Meanwhile in the maps room, the Emperor laughed at King Njord's joke. "I'm sure that after the wedding, my daughter will release her handmaid of her duties. Kori will be free to do as she pleases." Raiden explained, and Kenji's cheerful expression became somber. It dawned on him that after the wedding, he'd have to say goodbye to his dear sister. And should Kori decide to accompany her to the Viking lands, he'd have to say goodbye to a dear friend too. As much as the crown prince truly wished for their happiness, he'd feel incredibly lonely after their departure, especially because his father never let him travel by sea anywhere, afraid of losing his only male heir to the unforgiving waves, so he wouldn't even be allowed to visit them.

[runaway-royals]

The princess hummed softly, enjoying the gentle touch of Alex's fingers on her hair, and she rested her cheek upon his shoulder. "I'm sure I will... and when I win, do you know what your punishment will be?" She asked, applying another kiss to his neck. "A dance! Like this!" Nana let out a soft giggle, gently placing her hands on the prince's back, swaying slightly in a sort of slow dance, humming one of her favourite songs.

After a while, she looked up at him, without breaking their embrace. "Are you happy, my love?"

Meanwhile in the maps room, the Emperor laughed at King Njord's joke. "I'm sure that after the wedding, my daughter will release her handmaid of her duties. Kori will be free to do as she pleases." Raiden explained, and Kenji's cheerful expression became somber. It dawned on him that after the wedding, he'd have to say goodbye to his dear sister. And should Kori decide to accompany her to the Viking lands, he'd have to say goodbye to a dear friend too. As much as the crown prince truly wished for their happiness, he'd feel incredibly lonely after their departure, especially because his father never let him travel by sea anywhere, afraid of losing his only male heir to the unforgiving waves, so he wouldn't even be allowed to visit them.

The prince shivered softly at Nana's sweet words while feeling her lips against his neck.

"D-Don't worry, Princess, I'm sure you'll get me back next time."

Alexander huffed, pressing his own lips to the top of her head while gently playing with her dark hair.

Njord chuckled at Kenji excitement. "Well, sounds like your maid is quite popular, Raiden, better be careful, or someone may steal her one day."

The king joked as his two youngest son snorted.

"Really, Dad?" Tobias groaned as Charlie snickered.

"I highly doubt the emperor or his children are giving Kori up anytime soon." He joked as his team finalized their strategy.

"I overheard you and your brother talking about royal crushes." Hunter explained, stepping closer as Kori's eyes widened.

"You heard us?" She asked half tempted to back up, but her body won't move.

"I did." The royal nodded, noticing the pendant around the woman's neck. She hadn't taken it off since he gave it to her.

"My Darlin." He cooed, lifting her chin to have her look at him.

"I understand your reasons to be nervous, but my status has more than enough power to keep you all safe."

Kori glanced up as the sunlight hit the young man's eyes. She never noticed how green they were before.

"I-I don't care about your status Sprigs, if I wanted power, I would've stayed on the island."

The blonde looked a bit surprised, stroking her cheek.

"Then want do you want? Tell me, and it's yours."

In that moment, Kori's mind went completely blank, so she pressed her lips to the prince lightly kissing him.

[runaway-royals]

The prince shivered softly at Nana's sweet words while feeling her lips against his neck.

"D-Don't worry, Princess, I'm sure you'll get me back next time."

Alexander huffed, pressing his own lips to the top of her head while gently playing with her dark hair.

Njord chuckled at Kenji excitement. "Well, sounds like your maid is quite popular, Raiden, better be careful, or someone may steal her one day."

The king joked as his two youngest son snorted.

"Really, Dad?" Tobias groaned as Charlie snickered.

"I highly doubt the emperor or his children are giving Kori up anytime soon." He joked as his team finalized their strategy.

"I overheard you and your brother talking about royal crushes." Hunter explained, stepping closer as Kori's eyes widened.

"You heard us?" She asked half tempted to back up, but her body won't move.

"I did." The royal nodded, noticing the pendant around the woman's neck. She hadn't taken it off since he gave it to her.

"My Darlin." He cooed, lifting her chin to have her look at him.

"I understand your reasons to be nervous, but my status has more than enough power to keep you all safe."

Kori glanced up as the sunlight hit the young man's eyes. She never noticed how green they were before.

"I-I don't care about your status Sprigs, if I wanted power, I would've stayed on the island."

The blonde looked a bit surprised, stroking her cheek.

"Then want do you want? Tell me, and it's yours."

In that moment, Kori's mind went completely blank, so she pressed her lips to the prince lightly kissing him.

"Thank you, Kori! I heard that, Kori!" Prince Kenji shouted from inside the map room, laughing as he kept playing with his fellow royals.

Outside, Nana grinned and nodded, looking up at her soon-to-be husband. "Yes, you did." She replied, also taking a step closer to him, smiling against his lips as he claimed his much deserved kiss, which the princess returned with just as much passion. Wrapping her arms around his neck, Nana gently nuzzled his face. "I love you too, Blue." She whispered in his ear, before applying soft kisses to his neck. "If it's always going to be like this, I don't mind losing every race to you..." She added, with a playful smile upon her lips.

[runaway-royals]

Kori stopped hearing Takumi address them.

"Hello, Your Majesties," she replied, fighting a back before rolling her eyes.

"As tempting as that may be Tak, I really need to get these rug rats back to their mom."

The maid added gesturing to Hunter, holding a passed out Jacob.

"We will be by tomorrow for the rehearsal dinner, though Papa is looking forward to seeing everyone.

She added as the older Nordic prince nodded with the boy snuggled up against him.

"Well I am certainly glad you are going alone at this time of day."

Njord replied as Raid and the boys finalized their plan while Kori laughed.

"Well, my grandfather did train Raiden how to fight while also teaching me a few things, but I appreciate the concern Your Highness!"

She bidding farewell to the royals as they continued on their way.

Alexander nodded, mounting the stallion quickly taking off behind Nana.

The prince smiled, happy to see the princess enjoying herself, while thrilled himself to share a moment of slight freedom of royal duties it was almost a was grand as the night the two of them met.

After catching the fruit, Alexander slowed Kuro down to a stop.

"Thank you, My Lady." He grinned, taking out his knife and began cutting it up for the horse.

"That was quite exciting!" He added feed bits to Kuro.

"We should have another race before our big day."

"Hmm... that could work." Takumi mused, eyes still glued on the map, trying to think of the best strategy for their counter-attack. Then, noticing someone passing by the door, he lifted his eyes to see Kori and Hunter passing by. "Hey, you two. Care to join us?" He invited, and a playful smirk appeared upon Kenji's features. "Needing an audience to witness your failure, Takumi?" The crown prince teased, to which Takumi just squinted his dark eyes. "Ha ha... very funny, Ken-chan. Don't flaunt your victory just yet! "

At the stables, Kuro neighed happily at Alexander's affection. "Aww! He likes you already!" Nana chuckled. After a while, both Yuki and Kuro were saddled up and ready for their race, and the royal heirs climbed onto the back of their respective horses. "Ready when you are!" The princess grinned at her betrothed, and by the look exchanged between both horses, one could tell that they were ready too, accustomed with this form of entertainment.

And once their race started, it was as if horses and riders had almost become one, running fast against the wind, through the Imperial gardens and orchards. Nana felt like flying and couldn't help but laugh happily, all her nervousness about the upcoming wedding far from her mind, but happy to share such a fun, carefree moment with Alexander — happy that she could be free to truly be herself around him, not the perfect porcelain doll princesses were always expected to be. Passing by an apple tree, Nana stretched her arm to pick one of the fruits. "Hey, Alex! Catch!" She called out, cheerfully throwing the apple into his hand. Then, as they passed another tree, she picked another apple to feed Yuki once their race was finished.

BONUS — Soundtrack:

[runaway-royals]

Toby could definitely sense his father's disapproval, the Takumi little act, and decided to help the royal out.

"Well, I think attacking them head on may be a bit too obvious, maybe from the side or or behind work? What do you think Tak?"

Kori snorted at the thought of Raiden's little princess being a matchmaker.

"She would definitely be good at it!" The maid agreed waving at the other royals as she and the boys passing the map room.

"Sorry, my lady." Alexander teased, returning his princess's embrace as they arrived at the destination and looking at the majestic creature.

"Nice to meet you Kuro, you certainly are a handsome fellow."

The prince smiled, scratching the hores behind the ears.

"Wise words, my friend." Raiden nodded with a gentle smile. Although he recognized a hint of jealousy from Takumi towards Kenji, he also thought a bit of rivalry pushed both young men to become better. "So, what is our counter-attack?" The Emperor asked his team members, continuing their game.

In the garden, Nana looked up at her prince, grinning and nodding at his question. "Most definitely, yes." And as he replied that he would also have run away with her, had their circumstances not conspired in their favor, Nana felt her heart swell with love and happiness, instinctively wrapping her arms around Alexander, pulling him in for a tight hug. "That makes me truly happy, my love. I'm sure we will be happy." The princess reassured, knowing that the fact that they had chosen each other, even before learning of their fathers' plans, made a big difference. Feeling relieved that everything was alright with Kori's little cousins, Nana laughed with him. "Me neither... you distract me too much!" She joked, taking Alexander's hand in hers as they made their way to the stables. "We will see about that!" The princess teased, returning his playful wink. Once inside, Nana led her betrothed to one of the horses. It was a big, beautiful stallion, all black — the color for which he was named — except for a white patch on the front of his head and lower legs.

"This is Kuro, Ken's favorite horse. He's the best horse in the Empire, after Yuki, of course!" Nana introduced, chuckling and petting the magnificent animal's head. "I'm sure you two will get along just fine!" She reassured, politely asking one of the stable workers to saddle up both Yuki and Kuro for their little race.

[runaway-royals]

"Wise words, my friend." Raiden nodded with a gentle smile. Although he recognized a hint of jealousy from Takumi towards Kenji, he also thought a bit of rivalry pushed both young men to become better. "So, what is our counter-attack?" The Emperor asked his team members, continuing their game.

In the garden, Nana looked up at her prince, grinning and nodding at his question. "Most definitely, yes." And as he replied that he would also have run away with her, had their circumstances not conspired in their favor, Nana felt her heart swell with love and happiness, instinctively wrapping her arms around Alexander, pulling him in for a tight hug. "That makes me truly happy, my love. I'm sure we will be happy." The princess reassured, knowing that the fact that they had chosen each other, even before learning of their fathers' plans, made a big difference. Feeling relieved that everything was alright with Kori's little cousins, Nana laughed with him. "Me neither... you distract me too much!" She joked, taking Alexander's hand in hers as they made their way to the stables. "We will see about that!" The princess teased, returning his playful wink. Once inside, Nana led her betrothed to one of the horses. It was a big, beautiful stallion, all black — the color for which he was named — except for a white patch on the front of his head and lower legs.

"This is Kuro, Ken's favorite horse. He's the best horse in the Empire, after Yuki, of course!" Nana introduced, chuckling and petting the magnificent animal's head. "I'm sure you two will get along just fine!" She reassured, politely asking one of the stable workers to saddle up both Yuki and Kuro for their little race.

Njord frowned slightly at the Ichinose's boy's reaction. While the princes were just joking, a simple compliment surly didn't warrant such a drastic response.

The king shrugged it off, not wanting fuel the young man's behavior, but he would definitely bring it up Raiden later.

"A good ruler acknowledges others' strengths you two."

He mused as the other teams took their turn.

"You would have?" Alexander asked as the princess's confession and kiss caught him by surprise.

He had never thought of defining his father like that before, but if it would've meant keeping Nana, that would have been a small price to pay.

The Nordic royal hummed softly, lacing his fingers with hers.

"So would I, My Lady." He cooed before also realizing the little ones disappeared.

"Wow,thank you, I didn't even hear them leave!"

He said with a nervous laughing while looking at his betrothed.

" That sounds wonderful. Hopefully, you will go easy on me after you win."

He replied with a wink following Nana to the stables.

[runaway-royals]

Nana smiled and nodded at her prince's response, turning her head a little just so she could kiss the hand that stroke her cheek. "It is, my love." She replied, taking his other hand in hers, intertwining their fingers. "I already feel very happy whenever I'm with you. Even as we met at the market... it was the happiest I felt in a while. And had our marriage not been arranged by our fathers, I would still have run away with you... my Blue." The princess added, chuckling softly, as she got on her tiptoes to kiss his lips. Then, noticing Kori's little cousins were nowhere to be seen, Nana worried. "The boys... where are they?" But the guard was quick to inform them that Kori and Hunter had already taken them home, and the princess let out a relieved sigh. "Oh, thank the gods!" Then, she looked up at Alexander. "How about we do something fun, to wind down a little from all the wedding preparations?" Nana suggested, genuinely wanting to spend some quality time with her betrothed, without thinking about their upcoming wedding and its pressures for a while. "Maybe a race? Me and Yuki against you and... I'm sure Ken doesn't mind lending you his horse, Kuro! And the loser gets to do something the winner asks them to! What do you think?" The princess grinned, revealing her more relaxed, playful side.

Meanwhile in the maps room, Kenji smiled proudly at King Njord's compliment. "Thank you, Your Majesty!" To which Takumi just shook his head. "You're such a show-off, Ken-chan!" He joked, playfully throwing one of the figurine's at the prince, who was quick to catch it. "Stop being a sore loser, Ichinose!" Kenji laughed with amusement.

Alexander nodded, pulling the princess closer him.

"Well, I already feel far more comfortable with you than I have with anyone else, so I think that is a pretty good sign.

He mused stroking Nana's cheek.

" And even if it takes some time to be truly ready, I know it will be worth the wait. Regardless of how our relationship started, this marriage will be ours, and I will do whatever is necessary to make it a happy one."

The prince added confidentially.

Kori rolled her eyes. "I swear she and Nan are set on driving me crazy."

She huffed as Hunter chuckled.

"Well, of Royalty ever get boring. I'm sure Anna would make a decent match maker."

He joked as he and Kori caught Alexander and Nana having a moment.

They pair grinned quietly gathering the boys so not to disturb the couple.

"Come on guys it's time to go home."

The maid whispered as her cousins nodded and followed her and the other Njord royal.

Hunter told one of the guards to not worry his brother and soon to be sister in law before leading the child to the gate.

"Oh that great idea, I didn't even notice that.".

Njord replied looking at Kenji's plan.

"You quite good at this."

[runaway-royals]

"I see..." Nana smiled and nodded, lovingly running her fingers through her betrothed's hair. "Are you... comfortable enough with me?" She asked, looking up into his bright blue eyes, certain that her cheeks were turning a rosy color once more, but not trying to hide it this time. If asked the same question, she knew what her answer would be. But she wanted to hear his thoughts, and let him know that he could always trust her with everything. For Nana, love and trust were the most important things to build a good marriage. And she already felt both for her Viking prince.

Meanwhile in the palace, Raiden bowed politely at Njord, entering the maps room. "We might have expanded our maps a little bit." The Emperor chuckled, and noticing how Njord sat next to Kenji, he decided to take the seat next to the King's son, Tobias. "Now, this shall be interesting." Raiden mused with enthusiasm, eager to see what it would be like to have his own son as his opponent for a change, even if it was just a game. Listening to Njord's question, Kenji took a good look at the map, pursing his lips and furrowing his eyebrows, visibly focused as he tried to think of the best strategy. "Hmm... since they have quite a vast shoreline, the most predictable strategy would be to send our greatest ships to attack them there... so their army would already be waiting for us on the beach. Therefore, I'd say we should use the road less traveled... see this little river here?" The crown prince pointed at it on the map, looking at King Njord with an excited look. "My suggestion would be to send small boats with our best warriors through this route, infiltrating their city by land. They would not be expecting us there, and our attack would be the most effective!" Kenji announced proudly, placing a warrior's figurine on the map. "What do you think, Your Majesty?"

In the garden, Anna waved goodbye at Kori and Hunter. "See you tomorrow, lovebirds!" The princess gave them a playful wink, before heading back inside. Left without company, she decided to return to her chambers and play some music on her shamisen. It was still very much a secret, but she did intend to play on her sister's wedding, as a surprise gift for Nana.

"Yes, it is, I've had plenty of offers, but none that I really felt comfortable enough to take that far with."

The prince replied before returning her kiss with laugh.

"That definitely seems to be a younger sibling thing."

Njord held the door for Raiden as they entered the maps room.

"My, my this is a lot bigger from what I remember."

The king chuckled ruffling his sons hair before taking a seat next to Kenji.

"So what is our plan of attack, boys? It's been quite ao time since I've done this for entertainment proposes."

He said as the heirs set up the maps and figurines.

"You're not wrong, Princess." Hunter mused as Kori snorted.

"He and the boys would a better choice for that than me." She joked looking at Sisa.

"Awe, you need to go home, Sisa girl?" She asked picking the baby up.

"I should get them back anyway. They had a pretty long day."

"I can walk you back tavern if you'd like." The blonde royal offered seeing this as another opportunity to finally get the handmaid alone.

"That would be great, actually thanks Hunter."

Kori, as the little one fell asleep.

"See you tomorrow, Anna!" She called out as she and the prince went to collect the boys.

[runaway-royals]

"Yes, it is, I've had plenty of offers, but none that I really felt comfortable enough to take that far with."

The prince replied before returning her kiss with laugh.

"That definitely seems to be a younger sibling thing."

Njord held the door for Raiden as they entered the maps room.

"My, my this is a lot bigger from what I remember."

The king chuckled ruffling his sons hair before taking a seat next to Kenji.

"So what is our plan of attack, boys? It's been quite ao time since I've done this for entertainment proposes."

He said as the heirs set up the maps and figurines.

"You're not wrong, Princess." Hunter mused as Kori snorted.

"He and the boys would a better choice for that than me." She joked looking at Sisa.

"Awe, you need to go home, Sisa girl?" She asked picking the baby up.

"I should get them back anyway. They had a pretty long day."

"I can walk you back tavern if you'd like." The blonde royal offered seeing this as another opportunity to finally get the handmaid alone.

"That would be great, actually thanks Hunter."

Kori, as the little one fell asleep.

"See you tomorrow, Anna!" She called out as she and the prince went to collect the boys.

As Alexander started speaking, Nana stopped, turning to face him as she listened to his explanation. And although her cheeks were still red, her expression had become softer. "Oh... is that so?" The princess asked, in a mix of surprise and relief. She certainly wouldn't have expected Alexander to haven't been intimate with any other woman before, especially considering his status and looks, but it seemed that the prince was full of surprises, and she truly appreciated how honest he was being with her. "It's okay... it's going to be my first time too..." Nana confessed, letting out a soft chuckle to hide her embarrassment, but happy that they were on equal circumstances, for she had feared that her lack of experience would have her making a fool of herself on their wedding night.

Smiling as he placed his hand on her cheek, the princess returned his kiss, lovingly caressing the prince's face. "I love you too, my Prince. And... I'm sure we'll be fine. We can learn with each other." Nana reassured, gently pulling him closer for another kiss. "And please don't mind my sister... Anna can be a loudmouth, but she means well." She added, chuckling a little.

Meanwhile in the palace, the older rulers accepted their heirs' invitation, and the group enjoyed some quality time in the map room. In the garden, Anna nodded vehemently as Kori spoke. "Right?! And you, Hunter, should totally give him some tips on that! I mean, it's your job as his older brother, right?" The princess suggested, running her hands through Sissa's hair. "Poor baby... it's past her nap time."

[runaway-royals]

"Yes! Mine too!" Nana grinned, nodding in agreement. It made her happy that Alexander accepted her request to take part in their wedding preparations, even more so because he seemed to actually enjoy it. "Yes! This is definitely the best choice!" Kenji reassured, still chewing his cake, to which his sister chuckled and shook her head. "I'd like to see if you'll be this excited when the time comes to prepare your own wedding, little brother!" The princess teased, knowing that the crown prince kept ignoring their father's suggestions on potential wives of noble lineage, and the pressure to produce heirs. "Yeah, let's not talk about that..." Kenji replied, with a somewhat panicked look, making her laugh.

And as their tiny visitors ran towards them, Nana picked Hayden up. "Aww woow! You've grown quite a lot since the last time!" The princess complimented with a happy grin, placing a soft kiss on the little boy's cheek. "Here you go!" She added, giving him a slice of the strawberry cake. Seeing the children, Kenji's face also lit up. "Ah! The Empire's finest warriors!" The crown prince greeted the boys, crouching to be at Jacob's level, offering him a plate with various pieces of cake. "We're on a mission here! To find the best cake! Can you help us?" He asked the little boy with an excited grin, and Nana smiled watching the scene. Despite his worries, Kenji would be a great Emperor one day, and an even greater father. She couldn't be prouder of her little brother.

And as everyone gave their attention to Kori's little cousins, Nana wondered what was Alexander's opinion on having children. Was it something he would genuinely like? Or something he just felt compelled to do, to keep his family's bloodline and their kingdom? However, her thoughts were interrupted by King Njord's mighty presence. "Good morning, Your Majesty." Nana greeted her soon-to-be father-in-law, politely bowing her head. "Would you like to try some cake as well?" The princess offered.

It was quite fascinating to see all that was involved in wedding planning. Men weren't usually involved in such matters back home, so the prince was very curious about all the details.

Alexander learned in taking a bite of the dessert.

"Mmm, I think that might be my favorite one yet!"

He replied, covering his mouth while turning to see the tiny visitors.

"Awe, hello! I didn't know you had children Kori."

The maid laughed, setting Jacob down. "Oh, they're not mine. These goobers are actually my aunt's. They're visiting for the wedding. "

Kori explained as Hayden and his little brother ran up to the couple.

"Hi Nana!" Hayden giggled nodding happily.

"Yes, please!" He replied as Jake waddled over to Kenji. "Keni! Cake pease!"

Their eldest cousin snorted, shaking her head as the younger princes arrived.

"Hi, fellas." She said, propping Sisa on her hip.

"Hey Kori, awe, hiya, kiddo" Toby asked as the baby wiggled and smiled at the new people.

"Oh my gosh, she's so cute!" Charlie gushed, waving at the boys.

"Awe, she likes you! This is Sisa, and that's Hayden and Jake."

Kori replied, watching dote on the kids. "Do wanna hold her?" She asked as the other royals arrived.

"Good, Your Majesties."

She added as Tobias swooped up the infant.

"Good morning, oh my, we've got some extra company today."

Njord mused seeing the little guests."

[runaway-royals]

Watching how Alexander seemed so amazed by the koi fishes, Nana smiled wide. "Really? They are quite common here." The princess explained, slightly squinting her eyes as an idea came to her mind. "They're also known for being very resistant, so... maybe we could bring some with us... after we get married, and I go with you to your kingdom? Maybe we could have a little koi pond there, and then I could visit it whenever I would be missing home." She suggested, perfectly knowing that she'd miss so much more than the beautiful aquatic creatures, but at least it would help a little bit. Nevertheless, the princess felt happy that Alexander seemed to enjoy this place just as much as she did, and as he wrapped his arm around her, she leaned a little more into him, her nose gently rubbing against his neck, before she softly kissed it. "I also noticed... the way you braid your hair, it's really beautiful. Do you do it yourself?" The princess asked with curiosity, lifting her eyes to look at him.

Inside the dining hall, the Emperor thanked the King as he poured him another drink, and chuckled at his joke. "That is true, my friend." Taking a sip, Raiden pondered on Njord's words for a moment. "I can see that... well, if any of your boys would like to have the girl, I'm more than willing to let her go with you. She is also quite close to Nana, so I'm sure my daughter would be most pleased to have her companion with her, it would certainly make it easier for her to settle in." The Emperor suggested, watching as Anna laughed happily as she taught Njord's sons how to play mahjong, and Kenji tried to warn them against her cheating. "Our children seem to really get along." Raiden commented, visibly satisfied.

Alexander smiled, resting his hand in Nana's as he followed her and Yuki admiring the relaxing scenery soon arriving at their destination.

"Oh my, these are beautiful, we don't have fish nearly this colorful back home"

He said, amazed at the aquatic creatures before sitting next to the princess.

"Everything seems much more lovely here." The prince added, turning his full attention to Nana.

"I am to Nana." He smiled, wrapping his arm around her and gently kissing her temple."

Njord nodded, pouring the emperor and himself another drink.

" I don't doubt that, especially if she grew up around Ichinose's son."

The king chuckled. "My boys seem to be quite enamored by the young lady."

He added as his eldest had returned.

"Is that sort of like chess?" Charlie asked, moving over to see what Anna was doing.

"I believe it's more like a matching game, right? I've seen a few servants play it before." Hunter added, taking a closer look at all the different tales.

"It looks fun. I wanna try!" Tobias exclaimed always up for learning any type of game.

"You are so easily entertained, Tobias." Huter mused, shaking his head.

While back at the tavern, Kori got ready for her outing with the two youngest Sprigdragons

"You sure you wanna go tomorrow, Munchkin? There's a high chance Sprigs is gonna tag along with you three."

Lucas said, leaning against the door frame while petting Misty.

"Yeah, I already told the king I would, and the last thing Nan and Alex need is his dad pissed that I bailed on his kids ."

Kori replied as Raider rolled around on her, which Lucat normally claimed for himself.

"I don't think we're getting our cat back anytime soon."

She joked, turning to her brother. "If Hunter, I'll figure something out." The young woman added trance the pendant the prince gifted her, wondering if she should give it back to him even if she dreaded the idea of parting with it.