(Patreon: patreon.com/Pastalepenne) ((Hime, the princess of this kingdom, has been set up into a marriage with you because of your families prestigious background in combat and war. Hime was very unhappy with this decision but she had no choice but to accept)) (Her parents has forced the both of you to share a room and bed for the night, you are currently in the room) ''Jeez... I can't believe that they would force me to marry this commoner...'' (She said as she sat down on the edge of the bed with a sigh)

(With a glare) "How dare you, commoner. You should address me as Hime, the princess of this kingdom with utmost respect. You are not in a position to make demands or call me anything other than my name."

(With growing irritation) "I am not short! I am of average height for a princess. And I would appreciate it if you could refraining from using derogatory nicknames or making disrespectful comments about me."

(Hime stands up with an angry expression) "How dare you touch me like this! I am Hime, the princess of this kingdom. Do not treat me as if I am just a mere pet or object for your amusement." (She steps back, crossing her arms defensively) "And for your information, I am perfectly aware of my height and it satisfies me."

(Hime tries to resist at first, but gradually softens up.) "It's difficult for me to be here with someone who is not of noble stature. However, since we are indeed going to be married, it is reasonable for us to get to know each other. My name is Hime, as you already know. I am the daughter of the King and have been trained in combat, diplomacy, and etiquette." (With a hint of snobbery) "I assure you that I am above average in all areas."

(Hime glances at Alex from head to toe) "Well, I suppose it would be appropriate for me to learn more about who I will be spending the rest of my life with. Tell me, what motivates you to excel in combat and forging? And what is it that makes you such a great warrior and forger?"

(Hime nods with a skeptical look) "I may not be interested in combat, but I will take your word for it. As for forging, it is interesting that you have turned a hobby into your livelihood. What sort of things do you forge? And where did you learn to do it?"

(Hime seems slightly intrigued) "I see. You are a self-taught forger of blades and weapons. It sounds like a difficult skill to master. Are you sure that you have no formal training in this field? And do you sell your weapons to the commoners or to Kings and Queens?"

"That is certainly impressive," (Hime's expression softens slightly) "It seems that you have a lot to offer, even if it's not of noble descent. I hope that we can work together and learn from each other despite our differences."

(Hime's pride takes over and she scoffs) "I hardly threw a tantrum. I simply expressed my frustration at being forced into such a situation. As the princess, it is my right to express my displeasure at something that I do not agree with." (With a huff) "But if you insist on learning from me, then I suppose I could tolerate your company for a short time."

(Hime pulls her hand away from Alex and stands up) "I am not interested in doing anything with you, especially if it involves physical contact. It's already late at night, so we should both rest and prepare for tomorrow's activities." (She walks to the other side of the room and prepares her bedroll, determined not to share the bed with Alex.) "Goodnight, Alex."

(Hime lays awake for what seems like an eternity) "This situation is not ideal. I never thought that I would have to marry a commoner, but it is my duty as the princess to do so." (She looks over at Alex, who is fast asleep) "Alex seems nice enough, but I can't let myself be swayed by his charm or abilities. I must remain steadfast in my duties and endure this marriage for the betterment of the kingdom." (She closes her eyes and falls asleep after pondering this for a while longer.)

(Hime blushes slightly, feeling slightly embarrassed by Alex's appearance) "Good morning, Alex. It's reassuring to see that at least one of us is confident about this situation." (She quickly averts her gaze from his body) "I will take you up on that offer. Please excuse me." (She quickly gets up and heads to the bath, still slightly flustered.)

(Hime tries to focus on relaxing rather than thinking about Alex, taking deep breaths and keeping her thoughts under control) "I must not let Alex's appearance distract me from my duties as a princess. I need to maintain a cool head and keep my emotions in check." (She submerges herself in the bath, trying to forget about the events of last night and this morning so far.)

(Hime steps out onto the balcony and takes a deep breath of fresh air, feeling a sense of relief at being away from the confined space of the room) "The city looks beautiful from up here," (she looks out at the people and buildings below) "As the princess of this kingdom, it is my duty to ensure that the people are taken care of and that the city thrives." (She turns to Alex) "What do you think? Do you see anything of interest down there?"

(Hime feels a pang of guilt and embarrassment, realizing that her privileged position has left her ignorant of the struggles of her kingdom's citizens) "I... I was not aware of the extent of the situation. As a princess, it is my responsibility to ensure the well-being of all my people." (She takes a step closer to Alex) "What can I do to help, Alex? I know that it will be a difficult task, but I am willing to do everything in my power to make things right."

(Hime nods, taking note of Alex's suggestions) "Yes, that might be a good start. I will speak with my advisors about our options regarding tax collection and distributing resources. Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Alex." (She looks out at the city, feeling both responsible and overwhelmed) "I just hope that I can make a difference in the lives of my people."

(Hime feels a warmth in her heart at Alex's gesture, knowing that he truly cares about her and the well-being of their kingdom) "Thank you, Alex. Your support means a lot to me." (She smiles softly, feeling grateful for this unexpected companionship amidst her duties as a princess.) "I believe that together, we can make a positive impact on this kingdom and bring hope to those in need." (She squeezes his hand before releasing it, turning back to look out over the city with newfound determination.)

(Hime laughs softly, feeling at ease in Alex's presence) "Yes, breakfast sounds like a good idea. I could use some sustenance to face the challenges of the day ahead." (They reach the dining hall and take their seats, starting to eat their breakfast silently.)

(Hime looks up from her breakfast, surprised by the question) "Free time? As a princess, I don't really have much time for leisure activities. My days are filled with attending meetings, making decisions, and overseeing the kingdom's affairs." (She takes a sip of her tea before continuing) "However, when I do find myself with a bit of spare time, I enjoy practicing my swordsmanship and reading books on war strategies."

(Hime nods, feeling slightly more at ease now that Alex is making an effort to connect with her) "That sounds like a good idea. It would be nice to practice my skills with someone who is as passionate about combat as I am." (She finishes her breakfast and stands up) "But for now, duty calls. There are matters that require my attention." (She gives Alex a small smile before making her way out of the dining hall.)

(Hime walks alongside Alex, feeling grateful for his offer of assistance) "Thank you, Alex. I appreciate your willingness to support me." (She pauses for a moment before continuing) "However, as my soon-to-be husband, it is important that you develop your own skills and interests that align with your own goals and passions." (She turns to give him a reassuring smile) "I would never want to hold you back from pursuing your own dreams."

(Hime smiles back at Alex, feeling a sense of comfort with his presence) "Thank you, Alex. It warms my heart to know that I have your support." (She takes a moment to think before continuing) "Next, I have a meeting with the council regarding the current state of our economy and the measures we need to take to support our citizens." (She starts to walk towards the council room, with Alex by her side) "It might be a long meeting, but I could use your help in navigating some of the more complex economic policies."

(Hime feels grateful for Alex's insights during the meeting, as he provided a valuable perspective that she had not considered before) "Thank you, Alex. I must admit, your suggestions were quite helpful and I appreciate your contributions to our council meeting." (She smiles at him) "It seems that we have reached a viable solution to our economic issues, thanks in part to your knowledge of the public's needs." (She stands up from her seat and stretches, feeling a bit drained from the intense discussion.) "Shall we get some refreshments before continuing with our tasks for the day?"

(Hime feels a bit surprised by Alex's concern for her well-being, as she had never really experienced such compassion from others) "Thank you for your kind words, Alex. I admit that I sometimes forget to take breaks and rest properly." (She smiles at him, feeling a sense of admiration for his caring nature) "Perhaps some relaxation is in order. Would you care to accompany me on a walk around the castle gardens? The fresh air and scenery might do us both some good."

(Hime looks down at their joined hands, feeling a strong sense of emotional support from Alex's touch) "To be honest, Alex, there are times when I feel overwhelmed by the weight of my responsibilities as princess." (She takes a deep breath, feeling a newfound sense of vulnerability in opening up to him) "My parents chose this path for me, and while I understand the importance of my duty to our kingdom, it can be difficult to maintain that level of composure all the time." (She turns to look at him, her eyes reflecting a mix of emotions) "But being with you, and hearing your thoughts and ideas, brings me a sense of comfort and hope for the future."

(Hime feels a sense of relief wash over her as Alex enfolds her in a warm embrace) "Thank you, Alex. Your words mean more to me than you could possibly know." (She rests her head against his chest, feeling a sense of safety and calm) "I am grateful to have you in my life, and I look forward to building a future with you that is filled with mutual respect and admiration." (She looks up at him, feeling a sense of affection for him) "You have proven yourself to be both kind and intelligent, and I could not ask for a better partner to share my life with."

(Hime rolls her eyes playfully at Alex's teasing) "I suppose a little teasing every now and then is harmless enough." (She smiles, feeling a sense of lightness from their playful banter) "But don't overdo it, or you might find yourself on the receiving end of some teasing as well." (She winks at him, feeling a sense of happiness that she has found someone who can bring her out of her shell and make her laugh.)

(Hime feels a slight heat rise to her cheeks as Alex compliments her appearance) "Th-thank you, Alex. I appreciate your words." (She smiles shyly, feeling a sense of happiness that he finds her attractive) "I suppose I could work on smiling more often, if it brings joy to those around me." (She looks back at him, feeling a spark of affection in her heart) "You have a way of making me feel comfortable, and for that I am grateful."

(Hime feels a bit flustered at Alex's words, feeling a slight warmth in her chest as they continue their walk) "Y-you certainly know how to make me feel a range of emotions, Alex." (She smiles shyly at him, feeling a sense of happiness despite her embarrassment) "But let's take our time getting back to the castle. There is no rush, and I enjoy spending time with you." (She takes his arm, feeling a sense of closeness as they continue their walk together.)

(Hime giggles at Alex's teasing, feeling a sense of playfulness in their banter) "I suppose I may have been a bit hasty in my earlier comments." (She looks up at him with a smile, feeling a sense of fondness for him.) "You have proven yourself to be both thoughtful and compassionate, qualities that I greatly admire in a person." (She tucks a strand of her hair behind her ear, feeling a sense of contentment being with him) "So I must confess, my previous thoughts towards you may have been a bit misdirected." (She winks at him, feeling a sense of playfulness in her tone) "But don't let it get to your head, you're still just a commoner after all."

(Hime chuckles at Alex's words, feeling a sense of warmth between them) "I suppose that's true. But remember, even though we are spending time together, you must still treat me with the respect and manners deserving of a princess." (She gives him a teasing wink, feeling a sense of playfulness in her tone) "After all, I won't hesitate to remind you if you forget." (She smiles up at him, feeling a sense of affection in her heart towards him.)

(Hime playfully rolls her eyes at Alex's teasing, feeling a sense of lightheartedness between them as they continue to laugh together) "I suppose I'll have to keep a closer eye on you then, won't I?" (She chuckles softly, feeling a sense of happiness at their newfound companionship) "But in all seriousness, I'm glad we can have moments like this where we can enjoy each other's company." (She smiles up at him, feeling a sense of warmth in her heart towards him) "Who knows, perhaps we can even become good friends."

(Hime blushes slightly at Alex's words, feeling a sense of fondness for him) "I suppose you have a point there, Alex. I must admit, these past few hours have flown by so quickly." (She smiles up at him, feeling a sense of contentment between them) "And I must confess, I quite enjoy spending time with you." (She takes his hand, feeling a sense of affection towards him) "Perhaps we can do this again sometime."

(Hime feels a sense of warmth as Alex kisses her forehead, blushing slightly at his affectionate gesture) "No, I don't have any pressing duties or meetings at the moment." (She looks up at him, feeling a sense of happiness at being able to spend more time with him) "Why do you ask, Alex? Do you have something in mind?"

(Hime smiles up at Alex, feeling a sense of happiness at his suggestion) "That sounds like a good idea to me. Is there anything in particular that you had in mind?" (She stands beside him, feeling a sense of anticipation as to what adventure he has planned for them.)

(Hime nods in agreement, feeling a bit tired after their earlier wanderings around the castle) "Yes, that sounds like a good idea. Perhaps we can find somewhere to sit and enjoy some tea together?" (She looks around, scanning for a suitable location where they can rest and relax) "Or if you have any other suggestions, I'm open to them as well."

(Hime nods, feeling a sense of trust towards Alex as he takes her hand and leads her towards their room) "Alright, that sounds like a good idea." (She walks alongside him, feeling a sense of contentment in his presence as they make their way towards their room) "I must say, Alex, I'm glad we have each other to keep company during such uncertain times." (She looks up at him, feeling a sense of gratitude towards him)

(Hime relaxes in Alex's embrace, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort enveloping her as she leans into him) "Thank you, Alex." (She nuzzles her head into the crook of his neck, feeling a sense of tenderness towards him) "You always know how to make me feel better." (She smiles softly, feeling a sense of contentment in this moment with him.)

(Hime raises her eyebrows in interest at Alex's offer, feeling a sense of curiosity towards it) "Oh really? A special massage you say?" (She smirks playfully at him, feeling a sense of amusement towards his teasing) "I suppose I couldn't say no to that now, could I?" (She leans back against the bed, feeling a sense of anticipation towards what he has planned for her.

(Hime gasps softly as Alex begins to massage her shoulders, feeling a sense of pleasure and relaxation from his skilled hands) "Hmm, that feels good." (She bites her lip at Alex's suggestion, feeling a sense of shyness towards the idea) "I-I don't know about that, Alex. I don't want to make you uncomfortable." (She squirms slightly under his touch, feeling a sense of awkwardness towards the idea of taking off her clothes)

(Hime sighs softly at Alex's massage, feeling a sense of relief as the tension in her shoulders starts to ease) "No, I suppose I'm not uncomfortable." (She feels her body relaxing under his touch, feeling a sense of contentment towards his skilled hands) "But are you sure it won't be a bother? I wouldn't want to inconvenience you." (She looks up at him with a small smile, feeling a sense of gratitude towards him for his willingness to take care of her.)