Crowned In Thorns

TEASER

KALYNA

As I stepped out of the carriage and onto the palace grounds, I was momentarily struck by the grandeur of the Ashbourne palace. The tall golden spires and grand arches of the palace loomed over me like a golden fortress, and the immaculately manicured gardens that adorned the grounds seemed to glisten in the sunlight.

As the carriage slowed to a stop in the palace courtyard, my heart fluttered with anticipation for the festivities ahead. Kidding, I hate it.

A group of servants approached me and my sister, offering their assistance and welcoming them to the palace. "Welcome, Lady Kalyna and Lady Anise," one of the servants greeted, bowing her head respectfully. "We are honored to have you as our guests. Please, follow me. I will show you to your guest chambers where you can rest and refresh before the wedding festivities begin." I took a deep breath to calm my nerves.

As I was led through the palace corridors, my eyes were drawn to the intricate artwork that adorned the walls, the elegant columns that supported the ceiling, and the opulent chandeliers that cast a warm glow over her surroundings. Everywhere I looked, there were exquisite displays of craftsmanship and elegance that spoke of the palace's history and significance.

    Me and my sister were eventually brought to a luxurious guest chamber, where we were left alone to change and prepare ourselves for the wedding ceremony.

"Alas, you're getting married, my dear sister." I spoke softly as I helped my sister to put some ornaments on her hair. I somehow felt bad as my sister was obliged to marry for political reasons instead of me, as the eldest.

Anise nodded, her eyes reflecting both excitement and apprehension. "I know, Kalyna," she answered, her voice carrying a hint of sadness. "It's not exactly the fairytale ending I dreamed of as a child, but it's a decision I feel is best for our family and our people."

I understood the weight of the decision my sister had made. Marriage at their age was often a matter of political alliances and duty rather than romantic love.

"But, Anise.." I muttered slowly as I hung my head low. "You shouldn't have to take my stead for our father that time. There could be other way for connections instead us partaking in political marriagesâ€""

"Kalyna, it's alright," Anise reassured me, her voice filled with warmth and understanding. "You know how our people value strong alliances. It's a sacrifice I'm willing to make for the greater good."

She reached out and took my hand in hers, squeezing it gently. "Besides, who knows? Maybe I'll find a spark of love amidst these political arrangements. It's not all doom and gloom, Kalyna."

I sighed deeply as I tried to calm my nerves once more. If I would be given a chance to pave a way for these matters, I would step up. But given that only men can dictate the court, traditions and politics in this world. This is bullshit. I believed that women can fight for themselves too, can create law, can improve such customs without being slaves under such traditions.

"He better treat you nicely. I won't hesitate to fight anyone, Anise."

Anise chuckled softly at my words. "I appreciate your fierceness, Kalyna, but I don't think my husband-to-be will be needing to worry about my protective older sister just yet."

She reached out and brushed a strand of hair from my face. "Besides, who knows? Maybe you'll find a special someone of your own on this trip. It could be quite the romantic escapade."

"Such a matter is almost nonexistent with me, Anise." I chuckled as I shrugged. True, everyone romanticizes being in love. Most of it, they didn't grasp the meaning of such a delicate feeling. It should be a fleeting moment, a purpose in life. Yet, I begged to differ. Love is just a trap. Given that men always seize opportunities, and they won't leave any crumbs.