Shartos Drabbles and Oneshots

Arranged Marriage

Spartos isn't usually one for large crowds, or being the center of attention, and certainly not both at the same time. Now is not an exception. 

He's dressed in his finest ensemble, which is frankly quite uncomfortable. Not to mention heavy; because Sasan's main attraction and source of trade is minerals and jewels, he's decked out with the finest diamonds, emeralds, rubies; everything. Instead of his usual knight's armor, he has on a silk outfit embroidered with gold and silver. Even his ears had been pierced with impressive gold earrings. 

He frowns as he tugs on the uncomfortable clothing. His catches his elder brother's eye, who smiles sympathetically at him. "Stop picking at your outfit, Spar. You'll pull a string or something." 

"Oh, gods forbid." The redhead mutters, though he immediately regrets it. His brother only wants the best for him, and tries constantly to make him happy. "Anyway, why am I marrying this prince? You're the older one.." 

"Yes, but I'm nine years older than him."

"That's never been an issue in arranging marriages between royal families." Spartos points out. "The current king of Darrius is nearly 35 years older than their queen." 

"Granted," Mystras nods. "But, thankfully, our father abides by our religious beliefs and rules."

"And yet I'm betrothed to another man." 

Mystras shrugs. "Both Sasan and Heliohapt only have men. It was the best we could manage. And besides, it never really says homosexuality is a sin. It only mentions how man and woman are the only beings that can reproduce." 

"Alright.." Spartos sighs. "I still don't like it, though. What if he's rude? Or ugly, or just plain awful?" 

"He's not, don't worry. I met him the last time Father and I attended a meeting with them. He's alright. A little loud, maybe. But he knows his place." 

Spartos nods again and glances around him. They're currently in Heliohapt, residing in the palace. The room he's staying in is definitely worth that of a prince, and a prince betrothed to one of their own, at that. His is even nicer than his brother's or father's. Spartos isn't sure how that makes him feel, exactly. He doesn't wish to be spoiled and praised because he has to be. Call him a hopeless romantic, but he always hoped he would be able to marry for love, by his own choice.

Well, technically, this was also his choice. He'd had the option to deny the prince of Heliohapt. However, he knew the benefits marrying him would bring. Not only for their own country and people, but those of Heliohapt as well. And while Heliohapt was thriving on their own, it was obvious they needed influence from other kingdoms in the world. What better kingdom than one that secluded themselves from the world? Common sense, really.. 

Spartos turns to look at his reflection in the mirror. He almost can't recognize himself in all the silk and jewels. His hair had also been trimmed slightly so his bangs just brushed his cheek bone, still covering his left eye. While he'll be living in Heliohapt for now on, he'd made the royal family promise to let him continue his religious practices, as well as Sasan customs he's used to and loves. 

"Tell me, Mystras." He speaks after a moment, smoothing out his shirt for the umpteenth time. "Is he.. you know.." He trails off, ashamed this is the what's making him nervous. "Attractive?" 

Mystras chuckles and nods, crossing his arms over his chest. "He's not bad, I suppose. But I'm not into men, so I don't know how he'll appear to you." 

Spartos splutters some, his face flushing. He regrets ever telling his brother his preference for the male population. "Well.. he's still better looking than the average man, right?"