Princess Elara of Elrin stared out the window of her chamber, the choice that had been made for her weighing heavily on her heart. The place she cherished was bathed in a golden glow as the sun descended over the verdant woodlands around the realm. Her homeland has been peaceful and successful for ages, despite being remote and hidden from the outside world. But now that the Shadowlands posed a serious threat, her father, King Galen, was compelled to make a last-ditch choice.
The sound of approaching footsteps broke Elara's reverie. Her faithful lady-in-waiting, Lady Seraphine, entered the room with a sad face. She said, "Princess, it's time to get ready."
Fear and resolve mixed together in Elara's eyes as she turned to confront her. "Yes, Seraphine, I understand. For the sake of our kingdom, I must do this."
Putting on her ceremonial robe, Lady Seraphine assisted Elara with a nod. Painted a rich, blood-red, this exquisite masterpiece was crafted from the finest silk. For Elrin and the vampire kingdom, the hue represented the partnership in the making. Not only was the concept ironic, but Elara shuddered from the sinking feeling of dread it caused.
Putting a reassuring hand on Elara's shoulder, Seraphine finished fastening the button. My princess, you have strength. Your queenship will be magnificent."
Elara forced a half-grin. "Seraphine, thank you very much. I hope I can live up to what you said."
It was a difficult and protracted voyage to reach the vampire kingdom. Elara took a small group of people with her, including her father and a few confidantes. Elara had never seen the rocky mountains and deep forests that the route meandered through. As they farmed out of Elrin's familiar countryside, she had a twinge of homesickness.
Eventually, after several days of journeying, they arrived at the boundaries of the vampire domain. Here, the trees were bent, and the ever-present mist seemed to linger in the air, creating a stark and unsettling scene. As they drew closer to the imposing gates of the vampire palace, Elara's pulse raced. She inhaled deeply, bracing herself for the journey ahead.
With a groan, the gates opened, revealing a vast courtyard populated with troops and vampire nobility. King Darius commanded and dominated the center with his powerful presence. He had piercing eyes that appeared to look straight through her, black hair, and a towering build. Elara met his eyes firmly through her terror, determined not to give in.
Raising his hand, King Galen spoke to the vampire king. "King Darius, as agreed, I present to you my daughter, Princess Elara of Elrin."
Darius nodded, his face too expressionless to decipher. His voice was deep and rich as he welcomed Princess Elara to his realm.
Elara gave a beautiful curtsy. "Thank you, Your Majesty."
Within the vampire castle's vast hall took, the wedding ceremony took place. That was an opulent event that lords from both countries attended. As Elara stood next to Darius and uttered her vows, her pulse was pounding. She was terrified, but she controlled herself, finding courage in the idea that she was acting in her people's best interests.
Darius held Elara's hand in his as the ritual came to an end, his hold solid but surprisingly soft. He mutely declared, "We are now united." "Together, we will face whatever challenges come our way."
Elara noticed a hint of honesty in his eyes as she glanced up at him. Maybe this union wouldn't be as scary as she had thought. Maybe she would eventually find her place in this weird new world.
That evening, while sleeping in her new quarters, Elara pondered over her house and the family she had left behind. Her eyes filled with tears, which she pushed away without more ado. She would not abandon her people after making a sacrifice for her kingdom. She inhaled deeply, closed her eyes, and made the decision to confront whatever was ahead with bravery and tenacity.