Chat-Error/slightly-more-clean-ln · Datasets at Hugging Face

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Why?
You know why. Im enamored with you. Arnold fed her the same line. I know you said you dont care about other peoples approval, but I like your asymmetrical talents. I dont find them useless at all.
Rishe didnt know how to respond.
I thought Id already made that clear. He took his hand back, drawing away, stopping just on the threshold. He turned back to a stunned Rishe and said, Let me know if theres anything you desire. I realize I just broke our agreementthe one about not touching you.
And with that, he was gone.
Shaken, Rishe sank to the floor of the balcony. I cant predict him at all! Just what is Arnold Hein planning?
The quiet of evening fell over the imperial capital of Galkhein.
***
Mmm.
Sunshine streamed through the window as Rishe roused from sleep. She rolled over, basking in the morning light. The wall she expected wasnt there, and the bed seemed larger than usual. Taking advantage of it, she stretched out as far as she could.
Was this her chamber at home? Or maybe she was a merchant again, spending a night at the desert kings palace. Perhaps this was her bed of straw from her life as a maid? Her memories met and interwove as she drifted into wakefulness.
When Rishe finally opened her eyes, she grew even more confused.
Light blue curtains surrounded the bed, thin enough to allow sunlight to pass through. She pulled them aside to find herself in a bare room devoid of furniture and carpet.
Oh, right. She didnt need to report for morning training, tend to her herb garden, prepare breakfast, or see how the bottles she had brewed overnight were coming along.
Realizing that, Rishe buried her face in the pillow. So soft, she murmured.
Judging by the position of the sun, it was about six oclock in the morning. She was pretty sure she had gone to bed around midnight last night.
I slept for six whole hours? Rishe couldnt believe it. Generally, she was used to getting about four hours of sleep. On bad days, at the height of an emergency as a knight or apothecary, she wouldnt even get that much.
Ive got nothing but cleaning on the schedule today. Hostages can sleep in, right? At least a little? Excitement suffused her at the thought, but that was interrupted by a knock on the door.
Lady Rishe, are you awake? Its OliverPrince Arnolds attendant.
Rishe sat up with a start. Im awake!
Oliver continued to speak through the door. I apologize for bothering you at such an early hour. Im here with a delivery.
Just a moment! Rishe slipped out of the bed, dressed quickly, and tugged the beds canopy closed. She opened the door to find Oliver standing in the hallway with a polite smile.
He apologized again. This was the only time I could slip away from His Highnesss office. Im glad to see that youre already dressed.
Not at all. Rishe paused, stepping back to allow him inside. Oh my. You look exhausted.
Oliver grimaced. Is it that obvious? Weve been climbing through mountains of paperwork, but never mind me. His Highness has been working around the clock.
Rishe thought back to yesterday, how he had come all the way out to the balcony. He should have used that spare time to sleep. Hes in high demand, isnt he? He was even working on the trip over.
He finished all the work he brought along with us, Oliver confirmed. Now hes dealing with everything that piled up during his visit to Hermity.
Oh. Rishe grimaced in sympathy. He may have killed her in a past life, but she wouldnt wish the bureaucracy of kingship on anyone. Its a shame he had to put his work on hold to attend a silly engagement party.
No matter. That party was how a committed bachelor finally found a bride.
His smile was sincere, but Rishe knew better. She spread her arms. Go on. Shall I spin around so you have a better view?
Oliver blinked. I beg your pardon?
Youre looking me over like Im a horse for sale. If theres anything I can help you with, please let me know.
Olivers brows went up. He let out a little breath of resignation. His Highness was right. You do possess the keen perception of a knight. Of course, Im purely an amateur myself.
Id say this was a merchants sixth sense, rather than battle intuition.
This wasnt the first time Rishe had caught Oliver looking at her. It reminded her of the way her noble customers would examine a product, assessing worth and authenticity. Or a merchant weeding out potential merchandise from a wide array of choices.
In other words, he was appraising her.
Oliver moved into a deep, sweeping bow. My sincerest apologies, my lady. I have been unaccountably rude to my lords consort. My behavior was unacceptable.
Rishe shook her head. Please dont, its fine. It wasnt unreasonable for the princes closest attendant to be wary of strangers. But it did make her curious. How long have you worked for Arnold? Have you always been a valet?
I trained as a squire, actually, Oliver replied. But I was injured and dismissed from the order. His Highness took me into his household soon after. I have served him for nearly a decade.
Then maybe you can answer this, Rishe said. Why is Prince Arnold so very intent on making me his wife?
Oliver hesitated, as if weighing the pros and cons of speaking, To be quite honest, I was as surprised as you were. Hes always insisted he had no interest in marriage. But the sight of you in Hermity has changed his mind. Apparently.
So not even his attendant understood his motives. Rishe remained at a complete loss.
If I may, however? Oliver mistook Rishes confusion for anxiety and added, I have served Prince Arnold for a long time, and never before have I seen him so happy. When he is with you, he laughs. His smiles are sincere.
Rishe was taken aback. Shed figured all of Arnolds laughter and teasing was at her expense. His own private jokes.
Are youunhappy with him? Oliver ventured. With his looks, His Highness is exceedingly popular with the ladies of the court, you know.
Im sure he has many admirers. She paused. Would you really call the way he acts around me happy? To me, it seems more like a cat with a mouse.
Oliver laughed. He didnt deny it. I am pleased you understand His Highness so well. Oh, I nearly forgot. Here.
He held out a sheaf of three documents. This is the guest list for your wedding. His Highness bids you look over it.
Thank you, Rishe said, pleasantly surprised. She hadnt even needed to ask. She gave it a quick glance, quickly identifying the most prominent and powerful names.
King Zahad, Prince Kyle, Princess Harriet. And from the Kingdom of Domana, we have Lord Jonal attending as the representative of the king. No surprise there.
More than a wedding guest register, this was a list of key people from the countries Arnold would go on to antagonize. Even before the murder of the king and the start of the war, there must have been a triggera sea change in the affairs of state. Everyone on this list was most likely involved.
King Zahad. I hope we can be friends again like in my first life. Hmm Prince Kyle is rather frail. I hope he isnt working himself too hard. He has a strong sense of responsibilityhell attend the wedding even though itll be a long trip.
The sight of these names filled Rishe with a longing for those lives, for the people shed once known. And sometime in the very near future, they would all be Galkheins enemies.
If I take matters into my own hands, perhaps I can salvage some of these relationships before they sour. Even if we arent allies, we dont have to be enemies. Anything to stave off the outbreak of war.
Oliver had no idea what was going through Rishes head. Brightly, he continued their conversation. The ceremony will be held in three months time. All preparations must be complete by then. And nowwe need to discuss tonights party.
Tonights what?
Oliver stiffened. Did His Highness not tell you?
No, he most certainly did not! Theres to be a party?
Ugh, not again! Oliver dug his knuckles into his forehead.
Rishe put two and two together. She hesitated, then said, So there is one, then. As you must know, His Highness is trying to stamp it down without telling me.
Im sorry, Oliver replied. He should have mentioned it to you. You dont need to attend, but he will. At least, I hope he will. I think I managed to convince him.
She sympathized with Oliver. Under normal circumstances, it would be unheard of for the crown prince and his fiance to fail to appear at a banquet. Dont worry, Oliver. Ill go.
Oliver let out a sigh of relief. Really? Thank you so much, my lady. Ill put finding you a maid at the top of my to-do list.
No need. Rishe smiled. I can prepare for the party on my own.
This maid-selection process made Rishe uneasy. After witnessing that exchange between the servants in the garden, she imagined quarrels breaking out all through the palace. And she doubted the disputes would go away even after they decided.
Oliver frowned. But wont dressing be difficult without a ladys maid?
She shook her head. I can do my hair and put on a gown by myself. I brought dresses and cosmetics from home. Dont worry.
Rishe ignored Olivers stunned look, already reevaluating her cleaning plans.
***
The first thing Rishe said to Arnold that night was, Your Highness, I have a request. Her gown rustled as she leaned in close. I would like some herb seed and a corner of the gardens. I made a list. I hope we can discuss this in more detail later.
Arnold was silent a moment. Rishe.
What? Didnt you tell me to let you know if there was anything I wanted? She looked at him quizzically, and Arnold sighed.
Shed heard that hed finished his mountain of work and even managed to sleep for a while. He was dressed in his usual military black, trimmed with a red mantle and black gloves.
Arnold shook his head. Thats not what I mean. Im guessing that Oliver didnt tell you the reason for this party? Its merely for appearances sake. I need to look like Im searching for a bride within our borders as well. Theres no reason for you to attend.
It made sense. The crown princethe greatest catch in the kingdommarrying a foreigner without even the slightest nod to propriety would invite unwanted discontent from the nobility.
However, were betrothed, Arnold said. This whole evening is merely a formality. And with news that youre my hostage going around, youll be an object of curiosity. I dont want to put you through that.
Well, I already went to the trouble of getting ready. Rishe plucked at her soft blue dress, draped in fluttering layers around her like a flower bud. Shed braided her hair, decorating it with accessories. Her makeup was light, her shoes polished to a mirror shine. Her only jewelry was a pair of pearl earrings.
Rishe
Your Highness, the court may consider my status as a captive princess shameful in the extreme, but I dont. Shed chosen this course, after all.
Arnold was again watching her with a mixture of wonder and confusion.
So dont worry, she said, extending her hand. Feel free to show off your fiance.
Arnold relented, his dashing smile creeping out once again. Very well. I should take advantage of this opportunity to touch my betrothed.
Were wearing gloves.
Arnold took Rishes hand.
A throng of guests was gathered in the ballroom as a group of musicians performed on a platform. Women in gowns stood clustered, while gentlemen in military attire grouped together. A mere glance was enough to tell their clothes were of the highest quality. They mingled happily, making small talk with glasses in hand.
Rishe let her hand rest on Arnolds arm as she paused at the threshold to take it all in. This is a bigger event than I was expecting.
Is it? Id say its a rather small gathering, actually.
Maybe for a military powerhouse, Rishe muttered.
Yet another reminder of Galkheins wealth took her off guard. Arnold just looked bored.
The size doesnt matter, he said. In the end, theyre only here for gossip. Look, here they come.
In the blink of an eye, they were surrounded by guests.
Prince Arnold, thank you for gracing us with an invitation, said one man. Such a pleasure.
The pleasure is mine, Lord Abel, Arnold drawled.
Your Highness! We were so glad to hear of your safe return, another guest chirped. Please, our daughter is simply dying to be regaled with tales of your trip.
I cant imagine Id have anything particularly exciting to share with her, Arnold said curtly.
After the last few days, Rishe found this look of glazed apathy disturbing. His good looks only compounded ithe was so handsome that every expression was stark.
He looks more like Emperor Arnold Hein now, but still not the same.
Arnold appeared to notice her watching him. When he looked at her, his sourness disappeared, replaced by a genuine smile. All around him, women found themselves flushing. Arnold paid no heed to their fervent gazes, instead leaning in to give Rishe a brief moment of consideration.
Then he leaned in close enough to kiss her.
A dull trip, he said again, pulling away. But fortuitous. Without it, I would have never met the woman destined to be my wife.

Why?

You know why. Im enamored with you. Arnold fed her the same line. I know you said you dont care about other peoples approval, but I like your asymmetrical talents. I dont find them useless at all.

Rishe didnt know how to respond.

I thought Id already made that clear. He took his hand back, drawing away, stopping just on the threshold. He turned back to a stunned Rishe and said, Let me know if theres anything you desire. I realize I just broke our agreementthe one about not touching you.

And with that, he was gone.

Shaken, Rishe sank to the floor of the balcony. I cant predict him at all! Just what is Arnold Hein planning?

The quiet of evening fell over the imperial capital of Galkhein.

***

Mmm.

Sunshine streamed through the window as Rishe roused from sleep. She rolled over, basking in the morning light. The wall she expected wasnt there, and the bed seemed larger than usual. Taking advantage of it, she stretched out as far as she could.

Was this her chamber at home? Or maybe she was a merchant again, spending a night at the desert kings palace. Perhaps this was her bed of straw from her life as a maid? Her memories met and interwove as she drifted into wakefulness.

When Rishe finally opened her eyes, she grew even more confused.

Light blue curtains surrounded the bed, thin enough to allow sunlight to pass through. She pulled them aside to find herself in a bare room devoid of furniture and carpet.

Oh, right. She didnt need to report for morning training, tend to her herb garden, prepare breakfast, or see how the bottles she had brewed overnight were coming along.

Realizing that, Rishe buried her face in the pillow. So soft, she murmured.

Judging by the position of the sun, it was about six oclock in the morning. She was pretty sure she had gone to bed around midnight last night.

I slept for six whole hours? Rishe couldnt believe it. Generally, she was used to getting about four hours of sleep. On bad days, at the height of an emergency as a knight or apothecary, she wouldnt even get that much.

Ive got nothing but cleaning on the schedule today. Hostages can sleep in, right? At least a little? Excitement suffused her at the thought, but that was interrupted by a knock on the door.

Lady Rishe, are you awake? Its OliverPrince Arnolds attendant.

Rishe sat up with a start. Im awake!

Oliver continued to speak through the door. I apologize for bothering you at such an early hour. Im here with a delivery.

Just a moment! Rishe slipped out of the bed, dressed quickly, and tugged the beds canopy closed. She opened the door to find Oliver standing in the hallway with a polite smile.

He apologized again. This was the only time I could slip away from His Highnesss office. Im glad to see that youre already dressed.

Not at all. Rishe paused, stepping back to allow him inside. Oh my. You look exhausted.

Oliver grimaced. Is it that obvious? Weve been climbing through mountains of paperwork, but never mind me. His Highness has been working around the clock.

Rishe thought back to yesterday, how he had come all the way out to the balcony. He should have used that spare time to sleep. Hes in high demand, isnt he? He was even working on the trip over.

He finished all the work he brought along with us, Oliver confirmed. Now hes dealing with everything that piled up during his visit to Hermity.

Oh. Rishe grimaced in sympathy. He may have killed her in a past life, but she wouldnt wish the bureaucracy of kingship on anyone. Its a shame he had to put his work on hold to attend a silly engagement party.

No matter. That party was how a committed bachelor finally found a bride.

His smile was sincere, but Rishe knew better. She spread her arms. Go on. Shall I spin around so you have a better view?

Oliver blinked. I beg your pardon?

Youre looking me over like Im a horse for sale. If theres anything I can help you with, please let me know.

Olivers brows went up. He let out a little breath of resignation. His Highness was right. You do possess the keen perception of a knight. Of course, Im purely an amateur myself.

Id say this was a merchants sixth sense, rather than battle intuition.

This wasnt the first time Rishe had caught Oliver looking at her. It reminded her of the way her noble customers would examine a product, assessing worth and authenticity. Or a merchant weeding out potential merchandise from a wide array of choices.

In other words, he was appraising her.

Oliver moved into a deep, sweeping bow. My sincerest apologies, my lady. I have been unaccountably rude to my lords consort. My behavior was unacceptable.

Rishe shook her head. Please dont, its fine. It wasnt unreasonable for the princes closest attendant to be wary of strangers. But it did make her curious. How long have you worked for Arnold? Have you always been a valet?

I trained as a squire, actually, Oliver replied. But I was injured and dismissed from the order. His Highness took me into his household soon after. I have served him for nearly a decade.

Then maybe you can answer this, Rishe said. Why is Prince Arnold so very intent on making me his wife?

Oliver hesitated, as if weighing the pros and cons of speaking, To be quite honest, I was as surprised as you were. Hes always insisted he had no interest in marriage. But the sight of you in Hermity has changed his mind. Apparently.

So not even his attendant understood his motives. Rishe remained at a complete loss.

If I may, however? Oliver mistook Rishes confusion for anxiety and added, I have served Prince Arnold for a long time, and never before have I seen him so happy. When he is with you, he laughs. His smiles are sincere.

Rishe was taken aback. Shed figured all of Arnolds laughter and teasing was at her expense. His own private jokes.

Are youunhappy with him? Oliver ventured. With his looks, His Highness is exceedingly popular with the ladies of the court, you know.

Im sure he has many admirers. She paused. Would you really call the way he acts around me happy? To me, it seems more like a cat with a mouse.

Oliver laughed. He didnt deny it. I am pleased you understand His Highness so well. Oh, I nearly forgot. Here.

He held out a sheaf of three documents. This is the guest list for your wedding. His Highness bids you look over it.

Thank you, Rishe said, pleasantly surprised. She hadnt even needed to ask. She gave it a quick glance, quickly identifying the most prominent and powerful names.

King Zahad, Prince Kyle, Princess Harriet. And from the Kingdom of Domana, we have Lord Jonal attending as the representative of the king. No surprise there.

More than a wedding guest register, this was a list of key people from the countries Arnold would go on to antagonize. Even before the murder of the king and the start of the war, there must have been a triggera sea change in the affairs of state. Everyone on this list was most likely involved.

King Zahad. I hope we can be friends again like in my first life. Hmm Prince Kyle is rather frail. I hope he isnt working himself too hard. He has a strong sense of responsibilityhell attend the wedding even though itll be a long trip.

The sight of these names filled Rishe with a longing for those lives, for the people shed once known. And sometime in the very near future, they would all be Galkheins enemies.

If I take matters into my own hands, perhaps I can salvage some of these relationships before they sour. Even if we arent allies, we dont have to be enemies. Anything to stave off the outbreak of war.

Oliver had no idea what was going through Rishes head. Brightly, he continued their conversation. The ceremony will be held in three months time. All preparations must be complete by then. And nowwe need to discuss tonights party.

Tonights what?

Oliver stiffened. Did His Highness not tell you?

No, he most certainly did not! Theres to be a party?

Ugh, not again! Oliver dug his knuckles into his forehead.

Rishe put two and two together. She hesitated, then said, So there is one, then. As you must know, His Highness is trying to stamp it down without telling me.

Im sorry, Oliver replied. He should have mentioned it to you. You dont need to attend, but he will. At least, I hope he will. I think I managed to convince him.

She sympathized with Oliver. Under normal circumstances, it would be unheard of for the crown prince and his fiance to fail to appear at a banquet. Dont worry, Oliver. Ill go.

Oliver let out a sigh of relief. Really? Thank you so much, my lady. Ill put finding you a maid at the top of my to-do list.

No need. Rishe smiled. I can prepare for the party on my own.

This maid-selection process made Rishe uneasy. After witnessing that exchange between the servants in the garden, she imagined quarrels breaking out all through the palace. And she doubted the disputes would go away even after they decided.

Oliver frowned. But wont dressing be difficult without a ladys maid?

She shook her head. I can do my hair and put on a gown by myself. I brought dresses and cosmetics from home. Dont worry.

Rishe ignored Olivers stunned look, already reevaluating her cleaning plans.

***

The first thing Rishe said to Arnold that night was, Your Highness, I have a request. Her gown rustled as she leaned in close. I would like some herb seed and a corner of the gardens. I made a list. I hope we can discuss this in more detail later.

Arnold was silent a moment. Rishe.

What? Didnt you tell me to let you know if there was anything I wanted? She looked at him quizzically, and Arnold sighed.

Shed heard that hed finished his mountain of work and even managed to sleep for a while. He was dressed in his usual military black, trimmed with a red mantle and black gloves.

Arnold shook his head. Thats not what I mean. Im guessing that Oliver didnt tell you the reason for this party? Its merely for appearances sake. I need to look like Im searching for a bride within our borders as well. Theres no reason for you to attend.

It made sense. The crown princethe greatest catch in the kingdommarrying a foreigner without even the slightest nod to propriety would invite unwanted discontent from the nobility.

However, were betrothed, Arnold said. This whole evening is merely a formality. And with news that youre my hostage going around, youll be an object of curiosity. I dont want to put you through that.

Well, I already went to the trouble of getting ready. Rishe plucked at her soft blue dress, draped in fluttering layers around her like a flower bud. Shed braided her hair, decorating it with accessories. Her makeup was light, her shoes polished to a mirror shine. Her only jewelry was a pair of pearl earrings.

Rishe

Your Highness, the court may consider my status as a captive princess shameful in the extreme, but I dont. Shed chosen this course, after all.

Arnold was again watching her with a mixture of wonder and confusion.

So dont worry, she said, extending her hand. Feel free to show off your fiance.

Arnold relented, his dashing smile creeping out once again. Very well. I should take advantage of this opportunity to touch my betrothed.

Were wearing gloves.

Arnold took Rishes hand.

A throng of guests was gathered in the ballroom as a group of musicians performed on a platform. Women in gowns stood clustered, while gentlemen in military attire grouped together. A mere glance was enough to tell their clothes were of the highest quality. They mingled happily, making small talk with glasses in hand.

Rishe let her hand rest on Arnolds arm as she paused at the threshold to take it all in. This is a bigger event than I was expecting.

Is it? Id say its a rather small gathering, actually.

Maybe for a military powerhouse, Rishe muttered.

Yet another reminder of Galkheins wealth took her off guard. Arnold just looked bored.

The size doesnt matter, he said. In the end, theyre only here for gossip. Look, here they come.

In the blink of an eye, they were surrounded by guests.

Prince Arnold, thank you for gracing us with an invitation, said one man. Such a pleasure.

The pleasure is mine, Lord Abel, Arnold drawled.

Your Highness! We were so glad to hear of your safe return, another guest chirped. Please, our daughter is simply dying to be regaled with tales of your trip.

I cant imagine Id have anything particularly exciting to share with her, Arnold said curtly.

After the last few days, Rishe found this look of glazed apathy disturbing. His good looks only compounded ithe was so handsome that every expression was stark.

He looks more like Emperor Arnold Hein now, but still not the same.

Arnold appeared to notice her watching him. When he looked at her, his sourness disappeared, replaced by a genuine smile. All around him, women found themselves flushing. Arnold paid no heed to their fervent gazes, instead leaning in to give Rishe a brief moment of consideration.

Then he leaned in close enough to kiss her.

A dull trip, he said again, pulling away. But fortuitous. Without it, I would have never met the woman destined to be my wife.