"Thank goodness, it's not a bad idea after all," the finance officer said, adjusting his robe. "It might even work in our favor. Becoming in-laws with the Kingdom of Tenebria could strengthen trade, secure our borders, and bring peace."
The officials murmured in agreement, but King Baltimore clenched his fists. His jaw tightened. There was no way—absolutely no way—he would send his daughter to that kingdom. Of all his children, why Eira? The King of Tenebria could choose any of his daughters, but not her. He would not sacrifice her happiness for diplomacy. If war was the price to protect her, then so be it.
"Princess Eira will not be getting married to the Crown Prince of Tenebria," the king declared, voice firm and eyes burning with resolve. "They can pick any of my daughters—but not Eira."
"Your Majesty…" the herald stepped forward cautiously. "I relayed this same message to King Gorton. But he was firm. He said it must be Princess Eira—or war."
"Then we go to war," Baltimore said coldly. "I will not allow my daughter to be handed over to a stranger—especially one she knows nothing about."
The court fell into silence, stunned. The officials exchanged uncertain glances, unsure if their king had lost his mind—or simply let his heart speak too loudly.
"Your Majesty," the vizier spoke gently, stepping forward, "please reconsider. We cannot win this war. Our army is barely half the size of Tenebria's. Going to battle with them is a death sentence—not just for soldiers, but for villagers, farmers, innocents. We would be risking lives... all for one decision."
---
Later that night, the king sat alone in the royal chambers, troubled. His heart and mind waged a silent war. How could he break the news to Eira? How could he watch his beloved daughter—his pride—walk into a land of vampires?
The door creaked open. Eira stepped in and quietly sat beside him.
"You don't have to worry anymore, Father," she said softly. "I've made my decision."
Baltimore looked at her, startled.
"I will marry the Crown Prince of Tenebria," she continued. "I've weighed everything carefully before coming here."
She took a breath, eyes calm, but firm.
"If I refuse this marriage, and war breaks out, the consequences will be devastating. Our people would suffer, many would die, and Tenebria would most likely seize our kingdom in the end anyway. But if I agree… if I marry the prince, we gain an alliance. We gain protection. Our kingdom may even be uplifted. It's a win, Father. And if I have to give myself to save my people—then I will."
"You've always been selfless," the king said, voice thick with emotion. "Putting others before yourself… That's why you are my most reasonable daughter."
His eyes brimmed as he reached for her hand. "And now… now you'll be leaving."
"I'm not being forced, Father," Eira said with a soft smile. "This is my choice. And it means I can come visit you."
He chuckled lightly, though his heart ached. "Only you would think of visiting during such a serious moment."
---
News of the arrangement spread fast throughout Elyria—faster than wildfire. Those who knew Princess Eira and those who didn't, those who had seen her and those who'd only heard tales of her, all whispered about the girl who would soon become the bride of Tenebria's Crown Prince. Inside the palace, jealousy brewed among her half-sisters.
Eira was in her quarters when the royal announcers' voices echoed down the corridor:
"Crown Prince Easton is at arrival!"
She blinked in surprise. She'd been halfway into a nap. Quickly fixing her hair, she rose and made her way to greet her brother.
"Brother Easton," she said, bowing.
"Hm," Easton said with a grin. "What a little bunny. Come here."
She giggled and ran into his open arms. He gave her a tight squeeze, lifting her off the ground.
"Tenebria's soon-to-be crown princess, huh? Look at you," Easton teased.
She rolled her eyes as they began walking through the garden.
"Are you sure you want to do this, Ava?" he asked, using the nickname only he and their father shared. "Is this really what you want?"
"Yes," she nodded. "I feel like it's my duty. If I don't do it, I'd be risking so many lives—and I couldn't live with that guilt. This way, I can help save them."
Easton sighed. "And what about managing your new home? You'll be a queen, Ava."
"I'll manage," she said. "You know, Mom and Dad's marriage was arranged too. They didn't start with love, but they made it work. Father cared deeply for the queen, even though he loved my mom more. I think… I think it'll be like that for me. I'll focus on the kingdom, and maybe the rest will follow."
Easton smiled softly. "Just like Father... always trying to make peace work. I support you, Ava. You're smart, and I know you've already figured this out in that little brain of yours."
"Don't tease me," she laughed, lightly hitting his arm.
"Don't worry," he said. "You've got me, Winston, Father… and our mothers. We're here for you."
Just then, a familiar voice chimed in from behind.
"Hey, little princess!"
Eira groaned. "Speak of the devil."
"Brother Winston," she greeted, raising a brow.
"I told you to call me Duke Winston!" he pouted dramatically.
Easton and Winston were twins—one composed and regal, the other chaotic and playful. Easton had been groomed for the throne. Winston, however, wanted nothing to do with ruling. A duke's title suited him just fine.
"I can't believe the little rabbit I used to change diapers for is getting married," Winston teased.
"Duke Winston, if you're done talking nonsense, you may leave," Eira said with mock annoyance.
"Really, Easton? What did you do to my kiddo?" Winston said with a mock gasp.
"As you can see," Easton replied lazily, "your kiddo is tired of you. Go find a woman, Winston."
"Ha! Maybe I will," Winston said, grinning. "Or maybe I'll tell Mother about you and Tanya."
Easton's eyes widened. "You wouldn't dare."
"Try me," Winston winked.