The vast hall of Corhaven was more tense than the velvet hangings that covered the walls. Anya stood before her father, the King, her chin up. Word of her resistance, her refusal to wed Prince Luthor, and her covert meetings with Kael had caught on like wildfire, sparking a glimmer of insurrection inside the royal gates.
"You dare defy me, child? "roared the King, a man possessed by a hunger for power. That's it—you're going to marry Prince Luthor."
Anya said, "Father, I refuse to be a pawn in your political games," her voice quivering with anger rather than fear. Eldoria and Corhaven would only suffer in a marriage devoid of love, which cannot be imposed."
A muffled gasp echoed across the assembled court as a result of her statements. The ladies-in-waiting, who had put up with the oppressive expectations for so long, looked at each other with a knowing smile. Some, inspired by Anya's bravery, straightened their backs in a tacit demonstration of support.
Usually a stern group, the King's counselors shuffled uneasily. Some, tired of the King's increasingly firm hold on power, saw an opportunity for change in Anya's resistance.
Anya noticed Kael standing silently at the doorway, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword, out of the corner of her eye. Her determination was strengthened by his presence, which stood for the love she battled for.
The uncomfortable hush was suddenly broken by a voice that was full of calm power. It was Lady Elara, a witty and intimate companion of the Queen. "Maybe the princess speaks with some truth," your Majesty remarked. Stability won't come from a loveless union. Maybe a meeting with Prince Luthor and an opportunity to learn about each other's goals would be a more beneficial course of action."
Lady Elara received a stern look from the King, but the doubt had already been sown. He was aware that both kingdoms may become unstable due to a forced marriage. He also saw that Anya's disobedience was a reflection of the rising unrest inside the royal gates.
With a tone that suggested he was reluctantly accepting, he turned to face Anya. Really well. Prince Luthor is available for you to talk with. But rest assured, I stand by my choice. The marriage will continue if an agreement cannot be reached."
Anya returned his stare with a glimmer of hope in her eyes. She understood that this was only a chance, not a win. a chance for her to sow the seeds of revolt in Luthor, maybe as well as persuade him of the foolishness of their relationship.
A murmur of chatter trailed Anya out of the vast hall. Hearts were rising up in silent defiance, driven by a desire for love and a future based on freedom rather than obligation.