The Runaway Princess: Episode Four

As soon as I hugged Lauren as tightly as I could, I dashed off to the courtyard where the ceremony would take place. It was in the south courtyard, which was a bit shadowy and didn't have much in the way of flowers or trees. The ceremony always happened here. It was supposed to represent the responsibility and solemness of ruling the country. The presentation ceremony, however, took place in the north courtyard, where it was bright and sunny. It represented the happiness of marriage, but I wouldn't exactly describe my feelings toward that part of this whole ordeal cheerful.

As I hurried up to the platform that had been built especially for the occassion, I saw my mother already standing there. Of course. Couldn't I ever be good enough?

Apparently not.

"Allison, there you are. I was beginning to get worried you'd show up late. You so often do."

"Mother, this is the most important day of my life. Did you really think I would be late to this? And anyway, the ceremony doesn't start for another half hour! I'm perfectly all right!"

She just sighed. 

Finally, when it was time, the orchestra began to play the national anthem. The crowd cheered, at my mother stepped forward. 

"Fourteen years ago, our princess was born. Today we celebrate her next step into the kingdom."

Even more cheers. I had no idea that the people loved me so much. 

"Now, let us begin the engagement ceremony!"

She began talking. There were a lot of words in the ceremony. She talked about the responsibilities I would have as queen and everything this ceremony meant. She talked about our kingdom's history.

As she spoke, I began to feel a blind panic. I couldn't do this! I wasn't meant to be queen! I couldn't even show up to things on time, let alone rule  country. Who was I kidding...this was a mistake....

Finally, oh, finally, it was almost over. My mother spoke the final words. 

'Princess Allison Elizabeth Holly Sophia Charlotte the First, do you promise to someday rule this kingdom and lead these people to the best of your ability?

I barely choked out the words.

"I-I do."

My mother placed something into my hands, and the crowd practically burst. 

"Now, everyone, if you will please make your way to the north courtyard, there will be refreshments before the presentation ceremony begins in an hour. Thank you."

I leapt off the stage and ran. I needed my clothes. I wasn't going to be queen. I couldn't. 

I was going to leave.