The Royals of Silvercrest

11

King Shane's POV:

Emberfall Castle

After spending the past few weeks looking at my potential future brides, I get as much details as I can. Included with a portrait was a letter, sent from each lady telling me more about them. I had gone down the list with my advisor during my morning meals, crossing names off the list. My desires were not high. I want a bride who is kind, strong and will bring joy and peace to my family as well as my people. Finally, one woman caught my eye.

Princess Leia of House Evera.

She has long black locks, a heart shaped face and light blue eyes.

From what I had heard, she is kind and has a deep passion for the arts.

I scan through the rest of the portraits.

No one entices me as much as she.

At this, I decide to head to Castle Grenstone.

I travel inside the Royal Coach, pulled by six black stallions.

Ahead and behind me were a fleet of guards, a good few hold the flags of my castle, announcing to all who see, who I am. The ride is long, my anticipation growing and mind wandering as I wonder about Princess Leia. The wide open fields turn to dark forest. The sun has long past set now. The trees looming on either side of me look like errie monsters in the dark. I hear the sounds of crickets chirping and the trotting of hooves. When we pull to a stop, the door is opened and I climb out, staring at the large castle. A long bridge leads to the gate of the castle, a creek rushing below it.

Standing at the edge of the bridge, is an older man and young woman.

The man sports a dark red cloak, silver armor and dark gray hair.

When the young woman stands from her curtsy, I realize it's her.

Princess Leia.

She is just as beautiful as shown in her painting wearing a sparkling red dress that only makes her look more elegant.

"I hope your journey was well, Your Majesty." The man says

"Indeed it was." I say smiling at the two

The older gentleman gestures gracefully to the woman.

"May I, Lord Fero, present Princess Leia of House Evera." He says

"It is a pleasure, Your Grace." Princess Leia greets

Together we make our way inside the castle.

We sit down in one of the rooms together.

Cup bearers make their way in, filling our cups with wine.

"Let us begin." I say

"Of course. As known, the dowry is 12 chests of pure gold and silver." Lord Fero reminds

I nod in agreement.

"Once she is wed, as my wife she will inherit the estate of Oakwood Manor.
Any heirs bore will inherit their own estates and titles. They shall serve under the Crown until they are prepared for their full time official duties." I say

"That is very gracious of you." Lord Fero says

A gentleman walks into the room, walking up to Lord Fero, whispering something in his ear. Whatever words were spoken, it is clear that something bad had happened, and it was affecting him. He struggles to keep his composure. He whispers something back and the man exits.

"Forgive me but I have just received word that my mother has passed. I must-" He trails off at a loss for words

"Of course. Do what you must. I have no issue keeping Princess Leia company until you return." I say

Princess Leia smiles.

Lord Feeo thanks me and rushes out the door.

I turn my attention back to Princess Leia.

"Tell me something interesting about you." I say

"I have a deep love for art. Paintings. Not portraits but of landscapes. Snow topped mountains or sunset on a meadow. The way it encapsules beauty and life..." She trails off, blushing.

"Please, continue." I say

We spend hours talking with one another.

The more I learn, the more I believe I made the right choice.

When Lord Feo returns, the Union is finalized with her and I signing a document of our agreements and union. Our wedding would be in four days. Now, I make my way back home to prepare.