Blades of Desire

Avery remained silent, her expression a mixture of sympathy and dread, as if Abigail's struggle mirrored a nightmare she feared would one day become her own.

Elmont has been an ally kingdom to Eldrida for years, even before King Alden, Father of Princess Abigail, assumed the throne. Their King, Darion, and King Alden have been childhood friends, having grown up together. This long-standing friendship has fostered a deep trust and understanding between them, allowing their kingdoms to maintain a strong and enduring alliance. Although Elmont is significantly smaller than Eldrida, with fewer resources and a smaller population, it possesses unique advantages that complement Eldrida's strengths. Elmont's blacksmiths are unmatched, crafting weapons of extraordinary quality that have equipped Eldrida's armies for generations. Their swords are sharper, their armor stronger which they deliver to Eldrida occasionally. Additionally, they provide some of the finest warhorses, bred and trained to excel in battle, further bolstering Eldrida's military might.

Through their shared history, mutual respect, and complementary strengths, both kingdoms have formed a lasting bond but it was Elmont that stands to lose far more if the delicate balance were ever disrupted. Elmont benefits greatly from the protection that comes with aligning with a kingdom as powerful as Eldrida. They stand the risk of loss of trade routes, diminished security and the overshadowing threat of more powerful kingdoms if their alliance ever falter.

Prince Rowan's expression remained thoughtful as he pondered his sister's words. He knew that Elmont, despite its valuable contributions to their alliance, was in no position to dictate terms. They relied too heavily on Eldrida's protection. The thought of Elmont attempting to sever their union was almost laughable; they wouldn't dare risk losing the benefits of their alliance.

But Everia... That was a different story entirely. A kingdom as powerful as Everia didn't need Eldrida; it was Eldrida that needed them. With brewing war on the horizon, a looming threat from Marlenia and alliances are more crucial than ever. Rowan recognised the strategic importance of sealing the union with Everia while they were still willing to offer favourable terms, one that would secure Eldrida's position for years to come.

The weight of his role as a Crown Prince pressed down on him. He was tasked with thinking of the kingdom first. Yet, He understood the burden his sister carried, the weight of love and obligation pulling her in opposite directions.

"Abigail," Rowan finally said, his tone thoughtful and firm. "We'll speak to father about this. He needs to understand the complexities of the situation. And also, Father and King Darion are childhood friends; if he knows you and Prince Riven are in love, he might find another way around the situation.'

Abigail's eyes widened with a mixture of hope and apprehension. "You think he'll listen?"

"He will," Prince Rowan said, assuring his sister. "This is not just about you, or even about Prince Riven. It's about Eldrida and the future we're shaping for it. Father will consider all sides."

Avery, who had been quietly listening, finally spoke up. "Then we shouldn't waste time. The sooner we talk to him, the better."

They made their way to the palace, the quiet of the early hour hanging heavy around them. The grand halls of the royal residence were quiet, the silence broken only by the soft echo of their footsteps. Sunlight spilt through the tall windows, casting a warm, golden glow on the intricate carvings that adorned the stone walls, their beauty in stark contrast to the heavy thoughts pressing on their minds. As they approached the throne room, Rowan felt a hint of apprehension. He knew this conversation wouldn't be easy, but he was determined to support his sister.

Abigail had remained unusually quiet, her steps slow and measured, as though the weight of the impending discussion was too much to bear. Her hands were clasped tightly together, her fingers trembling slightly. The closer they got to the throne room, the more palpable her unease became. She had been dreading this moment, torn between her love for Riven and the unyielding duty she felt towards her kingdom. The fear of disappointing their father, of seeing his disappointment in her, gnawed at her insides.

As they walked, palace maids and guards bowed respectfully, their heads lowered in deference to the royal siblings. As they approached the entrance to the throne room, the doors were opened with a soft creak and their presence was immediately announced. The sound of their arrival echoed through the grand chamber, but their father, King Alden, remained seated on his throne, his regal posture unwavering.

He was engaged in conversation with one of the generals who stood before him, awaiting orders. The general's voice was low and steady as he spoke, giving reports and requesting further instructions. King Alden listened intently, his gaze sharp and focused as he made his decisions.

When the general finished speaking, King Alden gave a brief nod, his voice commanding as he issued his final orders. Without another word, the general bowed deeply, lowering himself to one knee. He then stood, excused himself and exited the throne room, leaving the royal siblings alone with their father.

The King's expression softened with a hint of warmth as he looked at his children. A quiet affection in his gaze. He watched them as they approached with an air of patience, waiting for them to speak.

"Father," Prince Rowan started bowing deeply in greeting to the King. "Regarding the marriage proposal of Everia to solidify our union, there's an issue that we came to discuss with you."

King Alden's brow furrowed slightly as he leaned forward, his sharp eyes fixed on his eldest son. "Go on," he said, his tone easy but attentive.

Rowan straightened and took a breath, steadying himself before he began. "It concerns Abigail," he said, glancing at his sister, who stood slightly behind him, her head bowed. "She shared with us something... significant. She and Prince Riven are in love, Father. He made his feelings for her known while she was there, and now he intends to come here to formally ask for her hand in marriage.

King Alden's expression shifted so slightly, but he remained silent, allowing Rowan to continue.

"This complicates the matter greatly," Rowan said. "Elmont has been our ally for years. Their King, Darion, has stood by us and their contributions to our military strength through weapons and horses are invaluable. Also, he's your friend and denying his son the right to marry your daughter when they're both in love might not bid well for your friendship. However, we cannot ignore the importance of Everia's proposal. They are a far more powerful kingdom, and the alliance with them is critical. Everia's resources and military strength could determine the outcome of future conflicts, and losing their support would be devastating.

Rowan paused, glancing briefly at Abigail, who now looked up to their father, her face a mixture of hope and fear. He took another breath and pressed on. "Abigail is torn, Father. She knows her duty to the kingdom, but she also cannot turn her back on her heart. She fears the repercussions for Eldrida if this situation is not handled delicately. And as her brother, I cannot stand idly by while she bears this burden alone."

He took a step closer to the throne, his voice firm but respectful. "We've come to you because this decision is not one we can make, Father. You have always guided this kingdom with wisdom and strength, and now we need that guidance more than ever. Tell us, Father, what can we do?"

Rowan fell silent, the weight of his words settling in the air as they awaited King Alden's response. Abigail's hands clasped tightly in front of her, and even Avery, usually composed seemed tense as they looked to their father for an answer.

King Alden sat silently on his throne for a long moment, his expression contemplative. He knew his son spoke the truth. Darion, King of Elmont, was not just an ally but his childhood friend. If Darion's son came to formally request Abigail's hand in marriage, Alden would find it nearly impossible to refuse. Their alliance had been built on trust and loyalty, a bond that extended beyond politics.

After weighing the complexities in his mind, King Alden sighed deeply. The solution was painfully clear, even though no one had voiced it yet. There were two kingdoms, two princes vying for Abigail's hand. One bound by duty, the other by love. And then there was Avery, her younger sister. At twenty, Avery was as beautiful as Abigail and just as ripe for marriage.

If Abigail were to marry Riven, following her heart, then perhaps Avery could step forward to solidify the union with Everia. It would be a sacrifice, but one that might preserve peace and strengthen both alliances. Though Alden knew that King Harold had initially sought his eldest daughter, he believed they would understand. Avery, with her poise and grace, would make a fine match.

His gaze drifted between his children, lingering on each of them as he considered the weight of what he was about to propose. Finally, his eyes settled on Avery. There was a flicker of uncertainty in her expression, but also the quiet strength he had always admired in her.

With a heavy heart, King Alden spoke. "There is only one path forward that can preserve the balance we so desperately need. Abigail, if you are to follow your heart and marry Riven, then the responsibility of uniting our kingdom with Everia must fall to Avery."

He paused, letting his words sink in, his voice softening as he addressed his younger daughter. "Avery, this would not be an easy choice, nor one I expect you to accept lightly. But you are your sister's equal in every way. If you are willing, you could ensure the peace and stability of Eldrida, just as Abigail has done in her own way. The decision must be yours."

The room fell silent, the weight of the king's words pressing heavily on them all. Abigail's eyes widened in shock, guilt flickering across her face as she glanced at her sister. Rowan remained still, his jaw tightening, while Avery's expression shifted. Surprise, apprehension, and perhaps a flicker of resolve passing through her features.