The sea port

Princess Aviva was happy that Ethan, her Brother-in-law was a merchant. Every time he would return from the sea he always had something for her, from chocolates to books. He was the first person that she considered a friend outside of her family. Sometimes if she was extra good Ethan would take her to the western seaport. Today was one of those days. Princess Aviva had just finished up her studies when Ethan offered to take her and Robert to the seaport. As a servant Robert rode on the back of the carriage as Ethan and Aviva rode inside. While traveling a question had been on his mind. " Lady Aviva?" he asked. "hmmm?" she replied curiously. " Do you like Robert?" Princess Aviva laughed. " I like him as a friend?", she replied. " But what about as a man?" Aviva looked at him confused. " Your sister was engaged to me at the age of 8. But you are already 11 yet you're not engaged. Why? your mother is swapped with proposals for your hand. " Aviva frowned before answering, " I don't like boys....I don't really want to be married. But if I must then I honestly would only marry Robert. Besides, I also don't have a desire to be Queen." Ethan looked at her confused," Queen?" Aviva nodded, " to be the queen you must marry first..." Ethan caught on. " So to avoid you being the heir or steal Catherine's title ...." Aviva nodded. " Yes, I am not engaged. I honestly don't think my mother will accept any proposals until you and Catherine have a daughter. " Ethan nodded," I heard only girls can inherit the throne. But I wonder what will happen if we have a son..." Aviva frowned again. " unfortunately, royals are banned from having a son. It brings bad calamity. So all males are killed at birth." Ethan was surprised. "No...way...", Aviva shrugged. " that's just the way things are....the person that you will pass your merchant skills to will be your daughter's husband. That's why skills matter. My father saw something in you. Hence why you were chosen. " Aviva smiled. " Ethan relax you will be a good king and remember I am in no rush to be married. So you don't have to rush to have a baby. I know my sister can be a bit much." Ethan nodded before saying," But I can't wait too long..Robert will be turning 18 soon. " Aviva laughed, " Robert is my servant for life. When I turn 50 then I'll marry him."Ethan did the math," so when he is 57?" Aviva nodded. " But the average lifespan here is about 60 years old? Wouldn't you want children?" Aviva thought about it. " I really just want the bridal sword...but I guess I can ask Robert if he wants any.....but then I would have to marry early.." Ethan nodded. " Maybe when you turn 16....." Aviva frowned," that's too early...maybe 20?" Aviva said confidently. Ethan laughed and nodded." 20 is a bit old but that's okay."

Once they arrived Princess Aviva explored the shops excited to see all the new trinkets that were brought in from the daily cargo. As the princess walked ahead of the boys Ethan was called to the docks to sort out a payment agreement. Annoyed Ethan gave Robert some money and told him to spoil the princess. Even though Princess Aviva walked fast she was no match for Robert's long legs. " Aviva, why do you always walk ahead?" Aviva smiled," why do you always walk so slow?" she said playfully. " Robert rolled his eyes and patted her head. " what would you like to buy today?" he said shaking the coin purse. " I don't know maybe a new dress. Also Robert ...do you want to have kids..." Aviva said. Robert stopped and thought about it. " I guess...but who would I have kids with?" Robert said as he continues walking. " me ..."Aviva said blushing a bit. Robert died laughing and wiped his tears. " I will not have kids with you." Robert said honestly. " why not? I am pretty...and smart...and I can garden very well," Aviva said getting upset. "you're a brat and you don't listen. Besides we are from two different caste. Your family will never let me marry you," he said. " I can make them..."Aviva said. Robert smiled and grabbed Aviva's hands. " I already have someone I like...so I can not marry you," Robert said. He was not lying.

He had recently started dating one of Ethan's newly appointed guards. Aviva's eyes widen in shock. She had never thought she would have competition," Who is she?" Aviva said." You do not need to know," Robert said as he rubbed her hands. Frustrated she yanked her hands from his. " I demand you tell me now!" she ordered. " no" he said firmly. frustrated she took off running down the market place.