4. Artistic Bonfire

Maxon could understand the reasoning behind this father-approved exercise for the girls. He really could. But, he thought it completely unfair to those of them that had never picked up a paintbrush, not to mention use one. The two paintings that could be sold for the most money would get their artists a special group outing with Prince Maxon. Really? What of the others? Yes, it was unfair but like the day before, Maxon would try to make the best out of a not so happy situation.

At least the girls seemed to have fun. That was a bonus and made him feel a little better about the entire affair. As he finished up his work and then snuck down for a covert look, he found smiles and even heard some giggles from amongst the group. It brought a tired smile to his lips when he saw that some were still in their night clothes. He was glad they were not unhappy here.

And now came the moment of truth.

With the girls doing whatever it is that they did in their 'Relaxation Room' father's assessor came to value each of the paintings. There was a lot of snobbish comments and snorts of disgust. But at the end, Maxon was given the results and held back a sigh. Instead he nodded curtly, turned and headed to his rooms to prepare the group outing that would be scheduled for later that day.

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A bonfire after the artistic evaluation from the morning was scheduled. Yes, he's wearing a suit. He'd never been allowed anywhere near the ruins before, not to mention a bonfire there. He was never told the story of the ruins either, but after some digging a few years back, he'd come to learn the truth. A truth he would never speak of. It had to do with betrayal, greed and a family torn apart by a crown. It seemed only fitting to bring a possible family, his future wife, to a place that had once seem the same torn apart. Heal the wounds. Bring peace.

It did not bring him peace though. As much as he had fun dancing at the fire with the girls, he knew that one of them would have to be sent home. Those were the rules. Going to his favorite place on the Manor grounds, he walked among the garden plants and thought long and hard of which one it would be.

Having started carrying for them all in certain degrees and ways, made saying goodbye difficult. But he knew from the start, he'd have to watch all but one leave him behind. Behind in his gilded cage. The one he sent home today, was a young lady that had made a disgusted snort at him as he tried to embrace her at the bonfire earlier in the day. It had shocked him as he thought he was presenting himself to her as a gentleman. Perhaps he had made a grave mistake. But from that time forward, for the rest of the day, he could tell that she ...well, she did not like him.

Good bye Rosalinda.

Author's note: Aww, I liked her. Oh well. She really did turned him down at the bonfire. Sad really, but she is the next to go. Joleen was the one that had the highest relationship with him on that outing, so she got the 'rose' which he didn't have the option for again, as he was too embarrassed by Rosalinda's rejection to give it. Joleen was the one who got the rose last time too.