Proving Worthy

preparation

      The halls bustled with activity, all in preparation for the masked ball. Ribbons draped from every pillar as pieces were rearranged to make room for seating. The ball was two days away, and I was nearly late for a dress fitting with my mother. I am fully aware that the seasons changing is not the only reason both my parents want me to look presentable. It slipped from one of my maids that every eligible bachelor in the country was to attend.

I've always loved the process of dress fittings, from designing to adding small details. "This gown is stunning Annabelle!'' Annabelle has been with our staff for the last six years. She is so spectacularly talented. I feel selfish keeping her here with us. The gown she has put together is of white tuell with detailing of stars and pearls sewn to the bodice, creating elegant swirls. ''I'm in love Annabelle, however, could we exchange the puff sleeves for something a little more cunning? I'm envisioning structured lace with a loose necklace, something that drapes down my shoulders.''
Moving for her tape, Annabelle said, "I see what you mean, my Lady. I'll get to work right away." Before she could scurry off to the supply room, Mother and I gave our thanks.

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     As I walked the halls, taking in the decorations, I heard footsteps from behind. ''Big day tomorrow, you ready?'' Ethan said. ''As ready as I'll ever be, although it is just a ball, not that rare of an occasion,'' I responded, not looking back. Ethan caught up to my pace, looking at me, he spoke with more intent. ''I just came from a meeting with the king. Do you know the intentions he has for you?'' At that, I stopped to look him in the eye. "What are you talking about?'' I could feel my skin grow hot. I had a feeling I wouldn't like what Ethan had to tell me. "Perhaps we should go someplace to sit down and discuss this properly." ''No'' I said before realizing how tense I had come across. Taking a quick, steadying breath, I spoke. "No, I'm sorry please, tell me whatever it is now." Licking his lips, Ethan regretfully spoke. '' I shouldn't be the one to tell you, but I know you would be furious if you knew I had known earlier and didn't tell you. The Demonios have started to get more violent, we believe they are people from Maskel. The people are beginning to get wary, they are doubting our ability to be powerful, and they fear their leaders are crumbling. That your family is fighting each other, not thinking of the country as a whole. Today, your father, as king, announced you will be marrying. He is planning to announce it to you, along with the people, during the balls dinner.''
"no," I said, though I didn't hear it above my thoughts. My vision started to get blurry, and my eyes began to sting. How could he do this? He agreed I would marry when I felt it was the right time. Right now is most definitely not the time. This is the only thing he could come up with to soothe our image? I let my voice laugh before turning into a pathetic sound of disgust. ''Absolutely not. If he thinks I will agree to that, he is mad.'' With that, I started toward his office. "Evelyn, wait, are you sure you are in the right mind for this?'' With that, I paused, ''No, I am not.'' sighing, I decided to voice the quiet truth I've met time and time again. ''You know what,'' I wondered if Ethan could see the pain in my eyes. ''My father thinks all I can provide for this country is a quiet voice and a smile. It does not matter that I have been taught everything a prince would have, he does not see my potential. He wants me to be married so my husband can rule, that I would remain in the shadows. I am going to prove him wrong. I will be ruthless, an image of power. I will do whatever it takes to be seen as someone who can lead an army and be a face of wisdom and trust to my people. My father is stubborn and short-sighted. He is the one who is not fit to rule.'' Ethan looked at me as if he was seeing me clearly, for the first time. I don't blame him. I have never spoken so unkindly of the king. We both stood silently for a long moment before I spoke. ''Don't worry, I will talk with more sensibility to him.'' I gave a small smile, in an attempts to ease the tension I had created. Ethan looked at me with something I couldn't decipher. "Best of luck to you; I must go, I have been assigned a new group to train. Eva, I trust you''
Nodding my head, we parted ways.

I had a feeling to prove myself as a worthy ruler, I would have to do more than speak to my father.