Aetheria: Silvannia

Chapter 3

I gazed at the towering double doors ahead. They were intricately decorated with gems, gold, and silver with delicate patters of flowers and swords combined. They led to the massive throne room, the room where my parents were expecting me.

The guards immediately offered their salutations and opened the two heavy doors seconds before I passed. I nodded in acknowledgement then calmly went inside.

The door shut with a gentle click as I looked up, facing two beautiful people in front. My mother, Empress Elisa Mildred Freinch was beautiful and had silver hair like my own and red eyes that shone like rubies. She was the previous heir of the Friench empire. My father, Emperor Arnav Barbeau Freinch however, had blonde hair and sky blue eyes like aquamarines. He was considered a part of the Malhia royalty and was the chancellor of the Malhia empire before he married my mother. Although their pairing also hailed from an arranged marriage, they both loved one another. Hence, the five us us were born. They were a couple worth admiring yet they also looked like the usual coloring pair for flags. [1]

I walked with my back straight, my silver boots making clicking noises against the marble floors. And the silver cape embroidered with the empire's insignia of a red phoenix billowing behind me with every step.

"You called for me, mother, father?" I spoke in an even tone, my expression blank yet my eyes showing inquiry.

My mother sighed and approached me. She was probably the most worried of what my reaction would be. Like Freya, my mother was the gentle type. She also worried a lot for us siblings yet she was also the wisest person I know.

"Vannia, your father has something to say to you. Don't be angry okay?" She told me as she stroked my cheeks. I just nodded at her.

Why would I be, when I already know?

My father stared at me with a stern expression. It was most probable that I inherited my father's personality. Strict and unwilling to show weakness.

"I've already arranged your marriage." He was always so blunt and straightforward.

"Get married? Me?" I asked with a slight frown, turning towards my strict-looking father. It was always like this. The parent's words are law. I know I could do something about it, but I choose not to. I am already long tired. Besides, I already long knew of this matter.

"Yes. You will be married to the young Duke of the Malhia Empire. Remember him?" my father asked.

I nodded. I did in fact remember. Due to Malhia's and Freesia's close borders and relations, they were both introduced to each other often when they were young. He had the bluest eyes she had ever seen, like the depths of the ocean and dark hair that glowed mystical blue when exposed to light. Aside from his handsome face, his eyes were truly the most beautiful shade of blue she has ever seen.

"Yes." I replied curtly.

"If so, do you have any objections to this marriage? I know that you already know how important this is but if you strongly refuse, I would also consider your feelings." My father told me.

I smiled, because I knew.

I turned to my mother to observe her expression. Seeing that I was looking at her, my mother's gaze softened.

"What your father said is the truth, Vannia. We're your parents after all. We wouldn't want you to enter a marriage you don't want when our lives are so long. After all, after marriage, your souls would be interlinked with each other. I was also given this choice before I married your father."

I smiled gently. "I know. But I really have no objections. Besides, you know I'm already acquainted with him. His character is not bad so I really don't have much to say against this."