KAEL
The throne room felt stifling as I stood in silence, waiting. The King was seated on his ornate throne, his face set in that familiar mask of authority. The council members whispered among themselves, but I ignored their murmurs. My focus was on the task ahead: greeting the woman I'd been ordered to marry.
Elyra.
A name that meant nothing to me, yet it had been drilled into my head over the past few days. The daughter of a wealthy merchant—chosen by the King to strengthen trade alliances. A convenient tool, just like me.
The sound of hoofbeats drew my attention. Through the tall windows, I saw the carriage pulling into the palace courtyard. The King's voice interrupted my thoughts.
"Kael," he said, his tone sharp. "Go. Meet her."
I inclined my head, not because I wanted to, but because it was easier than arguing. The council's eyes followed me as I left, their judgmental stares burning into my back. Hypocrites. They pretended to respect me, but I knew the truth. They feared me.
As I stepped into the courtyard, the air felt heavy with anticipation. Servants lined the path, their eyes wide with curiosity. The carriage door opened slowly, and she emerged.
Elyra was petite but carried herself with a quiet strength. Her dark hair was braided elegantly, and her dress shimmered in the sunlight. She looked around, her eyes lingering on the grand palace before settling on me.
Her gaze didn't falter. If she was afraid, she hid it well.
I walked forward, stopping a few paces from her. "Elyra," I said, my voice even. "Welcome to Daryen's palace."
She curtsied slightly, her expression neutral. "Your Highness," she replied, her tone formal.
I gestured for her to follow. "Come. The King is waiting."
She fell into step behind me as we entered the grand hall. The sound of our footsteps echoed off the marble floors. I didn't bother with pleasantries; there was no need. This was a transaction, not a romance.
---
The King's greeting was predictable. He painted a picture of warmth and acceptance, though I knew it was all for show. Elyra played her role well, responding with practiced grace.
"Kael," the King said, turning his attention to me. "Escort Lady Elyra to her chambers. She will need rest before the wedding tomorrow."
I nodded curtly and motioned for her to follow me.
We walked in silence, the grandeur of the palace surrounding us. Servants stopped to bow as we passed, their eyes darting between us. I led her to the eastern wing, where her chambers had been prepared.
"This is where you'll stay," I said, stepping aside to let her enter.
She glanced around the lavish room, then turned to me. "Thank you, Your Highness."
Her words were polite, but her gaze was searching, as if she were trying to read me. I didn't give her the chance. Without another word, I turned and walked away.
---
Later that evening, I stood in the training yard, my sword slicing through the air. The clang of steel against steel was a familiar sound, one that grounded me. I had no use for idle thoughts or meaningless conversations. Here, I could focus.
The memories of the day lingered in the back of my mind. Elyra's arrival. The King's plans. Alric's smirk. It was all a reminder of my place in this kingdom—a weapon, nothing more.
As I disarmed my opponent with a final strike, one of the guards approached. "Your Highness, the King requests your presence in his chambers."
I sheathed my sword and wiped the sweat from my brow. The King rarely summoned me personally. Whatever this was, it wouldn't be good.
---
The King's private chambers were dimly lit, the scent of burning wood filling the air. He was seated at his desk, a goblet of wine in hand.
"You called for me," I said, my tone devoid of emotion.
He gestured for me to sit, but I remained standing.
"You'll marry Elyra tomorrow," he began, his voice steady. "This union is crucial to our alliances. You understand that, don't you?"
"I understand," I replied, though my words carried no warmth.
He leaned back in his chair, studying me. "This marriage will bring stability to the kingdom. But you must ensure that she remains loyal to the crown."
His words were a thinly veiled warning. I was to control her, just as he controlled everyone else.
"Is that all?" I asked, my patience wearing thin.
The King's expression hardened. "Do not mistake my leniency for weakness, Kael. You may be my son, but your position here is precarious. Remember that."
I clenched my fists, but I kept my face neutral. "Understood, Father."
Without waiting for a dismissal, I turned and left the room.
---
As I walked through the darkened halls, my mind raced. The King thought he could manipulate me, use me to secure his reign. But he underestimated me.
Tomorrow, I would marry Elyra. I would play the part he demanded of me. But this was only the beginning. The throne would be mine, one way or another.
For now, I would wait. But when the time came, I would strike—and I would not fail.