◇Children Of The Realms◇ [Percy Jackson AU]

Hazel

Hazel was immersed in a book, letting her thoughts wander through the words printed on the pages, when a light knock came at her bedroom door. She closed her book and rose, facing the familiar silhouette of Hermes, King Adis's chief advisor and her father.

"Come in," she said softly.

Hermes entered the room with a confident stride, his gaze scanning Hazel with a hint of attention. "Your Majesty," he began, "King Adis has tasked me with informing you about the wedding preparations."

A twinge of anxiety knotted Hazel's stomach. She knew this moment was coming, but it didn't stop her from fearing what Hermes would say.

"We will need you and Nico in my office," he declared. "Please join us there as soon as possible."

Without a word, Hazel nodded and made her way to Nico's room. She knocked on the door and entered, finding her brother sorting through belongings.

"Nico, Hermes has asked for us in his office," she announced.

Nico nodded, and the two headed to the chief advisor's office. They knocked on the door and entered when invited.

Hermes greeted them with a professional smile. "Welcome," he said. "I'll be handling the details of the wedding with you since your parents are occupied."

A veil of sadness passed over Hazel's face. She would have preferred her parents to be there for her, but she knew their duties kept them away.

Hermes proceeded to explain the wedding preparations, revealing that Nico would accompany Hazel in the walk to join Prince Percy.

"Why not her father?" This question burned on Hazel's lips, but she didn't dare voice it aloud. She felt her heart ache at the thought.

"The king was not available for this task," Hermes murmured, seeming uncomfortable with the unasked question.

Hazel's disappointment was palpable. She had hoped her father would be there to support her in this important moment of her life, albeit unwanted.

Hermes coughed lightly to break the tense silence. "Nico, you may leave now," he declared.

Nico gave Hazel a compassionate look before leaving the room, leaving Hazel alone with Hermes.

"You will need two bridesmaids," Hermes announced. "Do you have friends you wish to offer this role?"

Hazel looked down, realizing she didn't have close friends to invite. Then an idea came to her. "I would like Marie, our governess, to be one of them," she said timidly.

Hermes nodded, taking note of her decision. "You still need one more," he reminded her.

Hazel pondered for a moment. She had never been very social and felt a bit lost in choosing her bridesmaids.

"I'll let you know tomorrow," she finally said. "I need to think."

Hermes nodded before moving on to the ceremony details. He mentioned that the wedding vows were already written and the attire had been crafted by a renowned designer.

"You have an appointment with her in 30 minutes," he informed her.

Hazel felt overwhelmed by everything she had to remember. Strict rules dictated what she should and shouldn't do on her wedding day, adding to her already present nervousness.

The appointment ended, and Hermes informed her that the designer was waiting for her in the fitting room.

"I wish you luck," he said impersonally before taking his leave.