The Call Of Destiny

Chapter 15

Prince Aric's Chambers,
Vessiye Palace,
Jeruvael,
Illearia.

The chambers was a combination of a study room and a bedroom separated by a heavy steel door.

The study consisted of comfortable leather and damask chairs in rustic colours of cream and saddle brown. In a corner of the room was a reading table with two wooden chairs with cloth upholstery, facing each other across the table.
Prince Aric sat on one of the chairs signing some documents.

Princess Ashyrianora was currently at the entrance to the room, collecting a tray of snacks and tea from a maid.

"Thank you." she said, dismissing the young girl.

"I must finalize all plans with Malij today. Tomorrow will be a busy day." Aric said to his wife as she placed a cup of tea on the table in front of him.

"I agree. Tomorrow is the masked ball, there won't be any time for selecting the youths." Ashyria said and then went to sit on one of the sofas, placing her tray of snacks on a stool beside her.

"So far, four boys have been chosen for the training programme."

"I think that it would be more ideal if the fifth boy isn't royalty."

"I agree with you mother." Minerva said as she entered into the room.

"Sorry for interrupting, I couldn't help overhearing your conversation."

"That's alright Minnie. Your contribution would be appreciated." Aric encouraged.

"Thank you father." Minnie smiled and went to sit beside her mother on one of the sofas. Ashyrianora offered her daughter a slice of fruitcake on a plate, which she accepted.

"Unfortunately, there is one problem with that idea; most of the young men who are not nobility, have already been drafted into the Illearian army." Aric stated.

"That's true father, but not all of them."

"Do you have anyone in mind dearest?"

"I just might mother."

"Who would that be?"

"I met someone today, our vehicle mistakenly knocked down his dog."

"How awful! Is the poor dog alright?" Ashyria asked.

"He would be, thankfully. He didn't have any major injuries."

"Does this young man have any prior military experience? It would be an added advantage." Aric said.

"I am not quite sure. He looked about sixteen."

"Illearian boys are fit to enter the army from the age of twelve years old."

"That's too young!" Ashyria exclaimed.

"I agree, but it is the law here."

"I shall discuss this issue with him tomorrow and give you an answer before the ball."

"That would work. Anyhow, I'm not sure how I feel about my daughter going to meet with a boy."

"Don't worry father, I'll be fine. Lokan will go with me."

"Fine. Don't stay out too long, and remember that I must get your answer before the ball tomorrow."

"I understand." Minerva assured him, taking a bite of her fruitcake.

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