After a years of rigorous training, I finally grasped the swordsmanship, but I still had a long way to go before calling myself a true sword artist. Spring was nearing, and I sat in the office, surrounded by dusty tomes and scattered papers. Butler Kan entered, bearing an official-looking letter.
"A letter from the Imperial Court, my lady," he announced, his expression solemn.
I took the letter, breaking the seal. My eyes widened as I read the contents.
"Why does His Majesty want to meet me, Grandpa Kan?" I asked, confusion etched on my face.
Butler Kan's expression turned thoughtful. "I'm not certain, my lady. The last time we saw His Majesty was for your guardian papers. Since then, the Emperor has paid little attention to House Eckart."
"Perhaps," Butler Kan continued, "His Majesty is interested in you because you'll soon become the head of this House."
I looked at Grandpa Kan, concern creeping in. "So, what does this mean, Grandpa Kan?"
Butler Kan's eyes locked onto mine. "We cannot decline the Emperor's summons, my lady. But be cautious; don't let your guard down."
Grandpa Kan knelt beside me, his voice reassuring. "My lady, as long as I'm with you, you have nothing to fear."
Grandpa Ivy's colorful eyes welled up with tears as he spoke, his voice trembling. "My lady, this old man may not have much time left... I want you to be strong, so no one can weaken you."
I burst into tears, clinging to Grandpa's hands. "Grandpa... please... don't say that... I don't want to lose you too." My sobs echoed through the air.
Grandpa gently wiped away my tears. "My lady, it's true. I'm old now... I can pass away at any moment. Be strong, especially when you meet the Emperor. I'll be with you for now, but not always, okay?"
I composed myself, wiping away tears. "Yes, Grandpa, I'll be strong."
The next day, Grandpa and I rode in the carriage, bound for the palace. Upon arrival, a knight with piercing coal eyes and copper-brown hair opened the carriage door, offering his hand.
I took it, and he bowed. "My Lord Princess Athanasia, this way. His Majesty awaits you both."
I entered the grand hall, my eyes drawn to the imposing figure on the throne. Emperor Calix's piercing lilac eyes and platinum hair commanded attention. I curtsied, greeting him formally.
"Your Majesty."
The Emperor's expression warmed. "Athanasia, my dear, it's been far too long. You've grown considerably since your parents' passing. You're 15 now, correct?"
I nodded, my voice barely above a whisper. "Y-yes, Your Majesty."
Viscount Aaron Kan's expression darkened, his eyes narrowing. "Your Majesty, I—"
The Emperor interrupted, his tone dismissive. "Ah, Aaron, I didn't notice you there. No matter."
Grandpa Aaron bowed, his jaw clenched. "It's alright, Your Majesty."
Emperor Calix continued, "Princess Athanasia, I'd like you to meet my son, Rohaan. He's 18, and I'm sure you'll find him charming. He'll be 19 in three months."
I curtsied again. "The honor would be mine, Your Majesty."
The Emperor smiled, his eyes glinting. "Excellent. I'll have the knights escort you to Rohaan's study. He'll be delighted to meet you."
Grandpa Aaron stepped forward, protest etched on his face. "Your Majesty, perhaps—"
The Emperor cut him off, his voice icy. "Aaron, don't question my orders. You may leave now."
Grandpa Aaron's hands clenched, his eyes flashing anger. "As you wish, Your Majesty."
I felt a shiver run down my spine as the Emperor's smirk grew wider.
"Off you go, Athanasia. I'll ensure you're escorted home after meeting Rohaan."
With no choice, I followed the Emperor's orders, my heart racing with foreboding.
I followed the silent guard, my mind racing with thoughts. We stopped before a door, and he announced, "Your Highness, this is His Highness's study room. Please wait."
He entered, leaving me anxious. Moments later, he returned.
"Princess, you may enter."
I took a deep breath, steeling myself. Inside, a boy with lavender hair and lilac eyes sat on a sofa, accompanied by another with green hair and emerald eyes.
I curtsied. "Greetings, His Highness, Crown Prince of the Sun Empire."
Rohaan, the Crown Prince, rose, his gaze piercing.
"So, you're Duke Eckart's daughter, Princess Athanasia."
My eyes downcast, I whispered, "Yes, Your Highness."
Rohaan's fingers grasped my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze.
"Look at me, Princess Athanasia."
Our eyes locked, and he smirked.
"Wow, you're interesting."
He released my chin, gesturing to the sofa.
"Why so nervous, Princess? No need to rush. Let's get acquainted."
He introduced his companion. "This is Kaid."
Kaid nodded, his emerald eyes observing me.
I hesitated, then sat, trying to compose myself.
Rohaan leaned back, his lilac eyes sparkling with amusement.
"So, Princess Athanasia, tell me about yourself."