Part 1

Thirteen Years Ago

The room was full of people, filled with citizens, guards, elders, and Jebbin, standing next to Cara, as she sat on the throne of Vulkira. The ceremony was to appoint Jebbin as acting king until Erik would come of age.

It had been three months since Halden and Astrid’s death. It was told that they had died of illness but some rumors spoke of an assassin and even went so far as to accuse Jebbin of doing the deed in order to become king. All rumors, no evidence.

Jebbin had cleaned up the carnage with his loyal followers wishing to see Erik crowned king. It had been six months since Cara had killed her parents, to this day no one knew but Jebbin. Even his followers believed he had murdered the king and queen in order to keep Vulkira safe from their rule.

Erik walked through the doors, his royal garbs dragging on the ground behind him. Slowly, he made his way toward Jebbin. Cara stood and knelt beside Erik as he stopped on the steps, Jebbin stood before them.

Her brother held the crown and ring of the king, in which he would offer them to Jebbin in a symbolic gesture to hand him power over the kingdom in his stead. He was still too young and inexperienced to govern a nation.

Jebbin retrieved the golden crown from Erik’s outstretched hands, his twelve-year-old arms shaking from being in the spotlight. Cara gently touched his knee as he was kneeling with her, giving him comfort and peace of mind that his older sister was by his side.

She acknowledged his glance and he smiled slightly. Jebbin smiled too and lifted the crown overhead.

“I swear before God, I will uphold the law and rule with a just and strong hand. I will show mercy to those who deserve mercy and punish those who deserve punishment.” Jebbin's voice echoed off the walls. “As acting king, I swear I will lay down my life for Vulkira and bring about a peace that is long overdue. I will bring our soldiers home from Kligira and start anew.”

The crowd erupted into a roar of praise and cheering. Erik and Cara stood then took a place on either side of Jebbin.

“I promise to God and to your future king and your princess, that I will relinquish my power when Erik becomes of age.” Jebbin roared over the cheers, quieting them. “No more treachery, no more over taxation, no more sending your husbands and sons to a war they have no part in. I will not rule with an iron fist, and may God give me the wisdom to see our nation prosper.”

His words spoke volumes as the crowd knew very well of Halden and Astrid’s unjust system of rule. Any who spoke out against them were silenced. Any who spoke against the war were silenced. Those who begged for a relaxation of taxes were punished openly.

Now that Halden and Astrid were no more, few mourned their passing even if the rumors of Jebbin murdering them were true. Hope that change would come, relieved most doubts about Jebbin’s abilities and past crimes.

Cara was quietly speaking to the citizens through common citizens, praising Jebbin and raising support for him. His loyalty was in question, but she would never forget his true heart and undying loyalty to her. She would do everything in her power to alleviate the rumors and hopefully spread positive news rather than negative, which would split the people.

Now more than ever, they needed to unite as one and work toward making their lives better. Already, soldiers arrived from Kligira after years of fighting. This alone was looked upon as a good sign of Jebbin’s authority.

Not only that, the Eldermen backed him and supported his temporary kingship. No one opposed it openly. Though Cara did not know if that was because they feared being silenced or simply because they knew Jebbin was a better choice than her father was.

Jebbin handed the crown to Cara, who curtsied then ordered him to knee himself. Jebbin did so immediately and waited for her to crown him.

The crowd was cheering and the halls were filled with joy. A feeling she thought was never possible in the castle.

“I, princess Cara, hereby grant you the title, king over Vulkira,” she said loudly as the crowd’s cheers died down again. “Do you swear to uphold our laws and to protect Vulkira?”

“I will,” Jebbin replied.

“Do you swear you will relinquish the crown to my brother, Prince Erik?” she made him repeat his oath.

“I will.”

“And do you swear to protect Vulkira with your life?” Cara asked, already knowing he had done so many times.

“I will.” Jebbin gave her a knowing smile as if reading her mind.

“Then I, princess Cara, pronounce you, Jebbin, as king of Vulkira.”

Jebbin stood and the crowd once again roared in approval. As the crowd jumped up and down, Cara gestured for Erik to come closer.

Taking the king’s ring from his palm, Cara had both Jebbin and Erik bow before her. Again, Jebbin knelt down, humbling himself before the princess.

“Brother. This ring represents you as crown prince.” she began. “As acting king, Jebbin will relinquish his throne when you call upon him to do so.”

“I agree with this,” Erik said, looking at Jebbin.

“Then with this ring, prince Erik, you are heir to Vulkira.” Cara gently placed the ring on his right index finger.

The craftsmen had molded it to fit his small hand. Its shiny exterior glinted in the light, the gold color shone brightly, as the gems on the top flickered.

“Rise, king and prince,” Cara said. “All hail king Jebbin.”

“HAIL KING JEBBIN!” the crowd repeated.

“All hail prince Erik.”

“HAIL PRINCE ERIK!” they repeated again with a roar of approval.

“All hail princess Cara!” Jebbin stood with a fist to the air. It was not the custom to do so but he did it anyway, knowing her worth as princess.

“HAIL PRINCESS CARA!” they screamed in joy.

Queens and princesses were never recognized like this. Only the kings and princess garnered such attention and honor, so when Jebbin did this for her, it meant more to her than anyone realized.

Jebbin was honoring her as a true Vulkirian and praising her as a woman rather than a puppet to be used, like her father and mother would have done. The people recognized her for what she was, a princess capable of doing great things. Not only that, the ceremony was normally conducted by a man of high status but Jebbin had insisted it be her that crowned him king. When the people agreed, she was secretly overjoyed.

Her mind temporarily forgot all the horrors her parents made her endure and the carnage and imagery of her slain parents vanished in that moment.

Part 2

“You what?” Jebbin looked at her in surprise.

“I would like to proceed with marrying Xerath,” Cara repeated. “I know it was my parent's idea but they were right about one thing, we need Xer’s influence. Vulkira has been significantly weakened and that means my brother’s rule will be dead before it begins.”

“I won’t let that happen,” Jebbin said. “You don’t have to do this.”

“I know,” Cara said. “I’m doing this for Erik, and you. And for Vulkira.”

“Your marriage would secure a lasting alliance with them.” Jebbin scratched his chin. “Xer did seem concerned that we would call off the arranged marriage once Halden and Astrid no longer pushed for it. It seems Xer is eager to have a hold in Vulkira just as much as we want a hold in Xer.”

“Our rich mountains will be sought after by all, especially Xer,” Cara added. “This marriage will be beneficial for Vulkira and Xer and they know it.”

“But I made it so you didn’t have to marry Xerath.” Jebbin frowned. “I thought this would make you happy.”

“There’s not much I do that makes me happy.” Cara thought back to the night she was forced to kill her parents. “Seeing you safe and caring for the kingdom makes me happy. Seeing that Erik has a future without constant threat, makes me happy.”

“Right.” Jebbin pursed his lips.

“And…” Cara paused. “Now that Ulfrick is gone. The only thing that ties me here is my brother. Marrying Xerath will give me influence from Xer where I can aid him and you from there.”

“Ulfrick.” Jebbin sighed heavily. “You both saved my life. I know you loved him and if it changes anything, I would exchange my life for his in an instant.”

“I know.” Cara tried to smile. “Ulfrick knew what he was doing. It was my fault he was slain.”

“Don’t say that!” Jebbin raised his voice. “None of this is your fault. The fault lies with me and your parents, not Ulfrick, and certainly not you.”

“He begged me to leave with him,” Cara whispered, remembering that night. “He wanted me to run away with him. To live a life free of my parents and the nightmare we lived in. I was stubborn and wouldn’t listen to him and he got killed for protecting me.”

“I see.” Jebbin sat down. “I am sorry I could not shield you from this burden.”

“It’s a price I’m willing to pay in order to keep my brother and to keep Vulkira safe,” Cara stated. “You have taken enough of the burden on your shoulders. This is mine to bear.”

“Then know I will bear it with you. No matter the cost. I will never tell a living soul. I will carry our secrets to my grave.” Jebbin promised.

“I know you will.” Cara smiled. “You are a good man.”

Jebbin gazed into her eyes, looking sad and worried for her. She returned the stare with a blank and lifeless one. Only brief moments ever lit them.

“I shall send them a letter then,” Jebbin said. “I will ask for a meeting here.”

“Excellent,” Cara replied. “I would very much like to meet him first.”

Part 3

Xerath rode through the streets, his royal guards trailing behind him. His father recommended he come by himself to meet the princess. Giving him full authority on the choice of his bride, one in which he guessed princess Cara did not have much choice in.

He was greeted by King Jebbin, who had recently been crowned king due to prince Erik’s young age. The tragedy of losing a parent at such a young age would have a lasting effect on anyone. Xerath felt deep sympathy for both Cara and Erik as they greaved.

Though it had been seven months, he could only guess at the time it took to fully recover from losing parents. Halden and Astrid’s sickness was sudden and swift. It caught them all off guard and Xerath hoped the marriage had been simply postponed.

After waiting six months, however, they had received a letter telling them that the proposal was still indeed on. He had only heard of her beauty, which this meeting made him nervous. Princess Cara was still young, which also made him feel odd and strange at marrying someone at the age of sixteen.

“That makes me six years older than her,” he whispered under his breath.

“What was that?” Kyburn asked him.

“Uh. Nothing.” Xerath waved him off.

Xerath was at the age where his parents constantly wished him to marry a woman of high status and settle down, though he was still young he wished to go about his single days a bit longer. He had never met her before and would have been lying if he said he wasn’t curious to meet her, however, he wanted to wait to marry, even if his parents pushed for this alliance.

Traveling to Vlakias, Xerath fully intended to postpone any arrangements himself, rather than outright say no. His parents trusted him enough to make his own decisions, however much he resented the idea, Xer needed him to marry soon. It was his duty as the sole heir to the throne of the most powerful kingdom in all of Isulia and he was told that often.

Frowning slightly, Xerath knew his parents would be disappointed in him when he returned with the news. “I’ll politely make an excuse and refuse the offer.” he thought. “What could they do?”

He showed off his athletic body by slipping off his horse effortlessly, keeping one hand to his hilt while doing so. His guard replicated his movement in a less gracious manner then followed after him.

“Showing off again?” Kyburn laughed. “I don’t see the princess, there’s no need to show off like that.”

“Hush, Kyburn.” Xerath smirked. “I haven’t the slightest idea what you're talking about.”

Kyburn raised an eyebrow at his friend but said nothing, stepping up beside him.

Approaching the king, Xerath spotted the elderly man in which was described to him. “You must be king Jebbin?” he stated.

“Indeed,” Jebbin replied. “It is an honor to meet you prince Xerath.”

“The honor is mine.” Xerath shook his arm. “I was quite surprised by your letter. I had assumed a meeting like this was off the table the moment you became king.”

“Ha.” Jebbin grinned. “You would have assumed correctly.”

“Oh?” Xerath half smiled, half frowned.

“You must be eager to meet the princess.” Jebbin changed the subject instantly.

“I am indeed,” Xerath said. “This is Kyburn, my most trusted and loyal friend. I pray you will treat him with all the respect and courtesies you would afford me.”

“That is high praise.” Jebbin glanced at Kyburn. “Are you the man who defeated Armin on the battlefield?”

Kyburn’s face went dark, as did Xerath’s, memories of the battle still clear in their minds. “Yeah. I took him down.” Kyburn replied bluntly.

Jebbin frowned, realizing the touching subject, and left it alone, “Alright then. This way.”

“Thank you for personally greeting us,” Xerath said. “We are honored by the invitation of Vulkira.”

“Yes. Of course.” Jebbin said while leading them into the castle. “I do, however, ask that you keep your guard from entering into the palace.”

“Oh?” Xerath said again. “And why’s that?”

“I’m sure you can understand our caution on security as the death of our king and queen is still fresh on everyone’s minds,” Jebbin said. “I will have the princess explain it to you when you see her.”

“Very well.” Xerath squinted, then gestured for his guard to stay put.

“I will have them accommodated shortly,” Jebbin promised. “A warm meal and bed will be provided to them I assure you.”

“That’s very kind of you.” Kyburn looked suspicious.

It was unusual at best to not be attended by at least two guards, especially on a diplomatic mission such as this. Xerath merely shrugged, confident in his and Kyburn’s own abilities to protect themselves if the need happened to arise.

Kyburn, however, followed Jebbin cautiously, his eyes darting around as if danger lurked around each corner. It took several minutes but they eventually stopped in a room and Jebbin took a seat.

The table was full of refreshments and multiple choices of food, such as fruit, bread, and meat. Xerath hardly hesitated before eating a chunk of meat and some wine to wash it down. Jebbin joined in as he bit into an apple and gazed at Kyburn who was still standing.

“Please. Have a seat.” king Jebbin pointed.

“Where is the princess?” Kyburn asked.

“She will be here momentarily,” Jebbin replied.

“Was our arrival not announced?” Xerath asked. “We sent several messenger hawks before us, notifying you of our approach.”

“That isn’t it,” Jebbin said. “I must admit, I lied to you both.”

Kyburn placed his hand on his sword, whereas Xerath continued to eat, staring intently at Jebbin. The tension rose as the silence continued.

“Please explain,” Xerath mumbled through a piece of bread.

“I brought you here because Cara is expecting you elsewhere.” Jebbin started. “I needed to speak with you first.”

“You wanted to measure me up, huh?” Xerath guessed. “See what I’m made of?”

“Exactly,” Jebbin admitted. “I hope you understand.”

“Of course.” Xerath shrugged, unphased. “With the princess’s parents out of the picture, you’ve taken it upon yourself to look after her. Does she know you are playing the father?”

“Perceptive,” Jebbin smirked. “Though I can never be a father to her, I can make sure the man she marries is a good one.”

“I can’t fault you for that.” Xerath shrugged again. “This is getting interesting. I am intrigued. What do you have in mind?”

“I can name every accomplishment he has done.” Kyburn chipped in. “Xerath took charge of the Kligirian war and as a result has brought the nations under control. He is a competent leader, he is just and honorable and heir to-.”

“Kyburn.” Xerath raised his hand, stopping him. “Thank you for the praise but I don’t think that is what Jebbin has in mind.”

“May I speak to you one on one?” Jebbin asked, indicating Kyburn to leave.

“Wait outside please,” Xerath said. “I’ll be fine.”

“Yes, sir.” Kyburn frowned, then left the room.

“There. We are alone.” Xerath leaned back. “What do you want from me?”

“I will leave you with knowledge of your future,” Jebbin said. “If you can handle what I will tell you, then you will have my full blessing, if not…” he trailed off.

“My future?” Xerath raised an eyebrow in disbelief. “And how would you know my future?”

“Not just yours.” Jebbin stared at him intently. “Isulia’s future.”

“I’m listening.” Xerath kept himself from rolling his eyes.

“You will understand when the time comes,” Jebbin assured him. “Thirteen years from now, everyone on this planet will die.”

“Is that all?” Xerath chuckled. “Does Cara know this?”

“No. And you will never tell her. You will never tell anyone.” Jebbin’s eyes flared. “You will suffer great hardship if you marry Cara. You are not meant to marry, but she is the one who insists on it.”

“She did?” Xerath ignored the other parts of Jebbin’s sentence.

“You will lose two sons. Your parents will die two years apart from strange illnesses. Vulkira will fall and each kingdom around you. They will flock to your borders, seeking sanctuary.” Jebbin continued. “The prince you thought long dead will rise up and strike you down in anger. Your friend, Kyburn, will die by his hand also. There is only one who can stop this. That man will bear the name Kaladin Valhorn.”

“Are you mad?” Xerath said. “You must be if you expect me to believe y-”

“I know who killed Armin.” Jebbin interrupted. “I also know that you were not the ones to slay the queen or her son.”

Xerath’s eyes nearly popped out of his head, his mouth dropping, “H-how d-do you know that?”

“I know many things.” Jebbin smiled. “You are an anomaly. For some reason, Cara’s path has changed and I am here to make it right.”

“Who else knows of this?” Xerath asked frantically. “No one can know.”

“And no one will. As long as you promise me something.” Jebbin said. “You will let these events unfold. Nothing else. You will not try to prevent anything I have told you. When the time comes, you must give this to Kaladin Valhorn.”

Jebbin pulled a cloth from his coat, then briefly showed the item within.

“What is that for?” Xerath asked.

“That is not for you to know I’m afraid,” Jebbin said. “If you do not, however, give this to him, all of Isulia will perish.”

“Perish?” Xerath couldn’t believe the words coming from Jebbin but he somehow knew everything.

No one knew of that except Kyburn and him, his mind raced, momentarily thinking Kyburn had betrayed him. He had only trusted that information with his friend and no one else in this world knew otherwise.

“It was not Kyburn, I assure you,” Jebbin said, reading his mind. “I know these things because I do. I also know you spoke to Armin before he died and has haunted you ever since.”

“Tell me how you know!” Xerath shouted.

“Peace.” Jebbin said. “Promise me.”

Xerath slowly stood, grasped the cloth then took a look at it one more time, “What’s so special about it?”

Jebbin only stared at him blankly, “I know you will keep your word. For that, you have my blessing.”

“Thirteen years?” Xerath repeated.

“No one can know. Not even Cara.” Jebbin said.

“I… you are a strange man.” Xerath gave up trying to guess who this man really was. “What you said, will it really come true?”

“Unfortunately, yes.” Jebbin sighed. “You must choose to trust me and deliver that dagger to him or Isulia will perish.”

Part 4

Cara grumbled to herself, annoyed with the Prince of Xer and Jebbin for being late. She had to be informed from her hand maid that they were in a private meeting without her, which made her fume. Making her wait for nearly an hour set her moody and frustrated with the men. This was supposed to be their first meeting and yet, Jebbin had to have his way.

She had insisted she speak to him first, but alas, Jebbin got his way. She knew he was looking out for her but this just annoyed her. Cara was perfectly capable of deciding the character of people in general, Xerath was no exception. Her frustration with her newly appointed king couldn’t be spoken in words as she approached the door to which they were meeting.

A tall man with jet black hair paced outside, he looked to be Xerian but she didn’t recognize him. He froze upon seeing her, then raised an eyebrow followed by a smirk.

“You must be princess Cara,” he said.

“I am.” Cara stopped. “And you are?”

“Ah, forgive me.” Kyburn bowed. “I am Kyburn. Xerath’s... “ he paused. “General… sort of.”

“You’re young to be a general.” Cara commented. “You must be extremely talented to hold such a title.”

“Well… I’m not officially a general.” Kyburn admitted. “I’m not sure what title I go by. I am Xerath’s right-hand man, friend, guard, etc.”

“I see.” Cara smiled. “You fought with him in the war then?”

“I did indeed, princess.” Kyburn nodded, pausing for a moment, he thought about what to say next. “May I give my condolences. I was sorry to hear of your parent's deaths. Such a tragedy.”

“Yes.” Cara said blankly. “Tragedy.”

“They are inside.” he pointed to the door, changing the subject. “Something about measuring him up as a man. Worthy of you or not and such.”

“Huh.” Cara breathed out loudly through her nostrols. “I’m quite capable of deciding that for myself.”

“I’m sure you are.” he smiled as she pushed her way into the room.

“I find this hard to believe.” Xerath said as she interred. “You can understand my-” he cut off.

“Princess.” Jebbin stood and bowed his head.

Xerath stood an instant later and gazed at her intently and smiled. His strong features stood out, with his angular jawline, his perfect nose, and his beautiful eyes pierced her. It made her uncomfortable to stare back at him, so she averted her eyes and stared at Jebbin instead, ignoring Xerath.

“What is the meaning of this?” she asked.

“We were-” Xerath started.

“I asked him here and deceived you.” Jebbin interrupted, taking the blame. “I wished to speak to him in person before you two met.”

“You asked me to wait in the dining hall, where I have been waiting for an hour.” Cara said angrily. “I am not a little girl anymore, Jebbin, and quite frankly I am offended that you are treating me as such. And in front of our guest no less.”

“Forgive me, princess.” Jebbin nodded his head.

“What were you two speaking of that you excluded both Kyburn and myself?” Cara asked curiously. “Your behavior is extremely rude and doesn’t start us off on the right foot.”

“I shall leave you two alone then,” Jebbin mumbled, leaving Xerath to his fate with the angry Cara.

“Uh.” Xerath frowned as the older man left. Kyburn shrugged as the door closed.

“Please sit,” Cara said without pause.

“Thank you,” he said with uncertainty. “It is nice to finally meet you, princess.”

“So far, it hasn’t been pleasant for me.” Cara countered, her nose slightly flaring.

He smirked at her irritation, which she noticed his amusement and made her more upset but she held it down. Unwilling to show him any more annoyance, she kept a calm cool head, trying to undermine his cockiness.

“You are quite stunning,” Xerath said suddenly. “I hope you will forgive me but I had no idea Jebbin would do this. He… wanted to keep you safe,” he said unconfidently.

The compliment took her off guard and she nearly blushed but remembered she was still angry with him and Jebbin. Keeping her emotions under control, Cara squinted her eyes at him, trying to guess what he was truly thinking.

“Your purple eyes are majestic.” he continued. “I’ve only heard rumors of your beauty but seeing you in person has me… baffled.”

“How so?” Cara took the bait, wondering where he was going with it. “Your flattery won’t help you.” she lied.

“Ah, well then let me leave you with this.” Xerath leaned forward. “I came here fully prepared to reject the proposal of marriage. I have little desire to marry, especially one so young as you, but… you are persuading me otherwise.”

The guile on him made her sneer in disgust, his cockiness was overwhelming, which made her want to puke. She instantly regretted ever pushing for the arranged marriage, she felt sick in his presence. She would never marry a man like this, even if it was for the benefit of the kingdom and for her brother.

“I thought you would be a silly little girl, defenseless and reliant on those around you, but I believe you have proven me wrong.” Xerath continued.

He caught her interest and her disgust slowly dissipated. “I am not a helpless girl. I have done things that would shock you. I will protect this kingdom if it kills me. All that matters to me is my brother and the people of Vulkira.”

“As it should.” Xerath shrugged. “You definitely don’t seem helpless. And I believe you when you say you will die for your people. As would I.”

“You have a poor way of showing it.” Cara insulted. “You don’t seem to be a man who would lay down his life for others.”

Xerath froze, gazing at her, the lips of his mouth twitched. “With all due respect, princess, you have no idea what kind of man I am. I too have done things that would shock you.” his anger showing now at being insulted.

She realized he felt the same way she did a moment ago, she just didn’t let him finish. Cara kept quiet as he spoke, listening to his every word, looking for inconsistencies and lies.

“Perhaps you are too young to be my bride.” Xerath shot back. “You don’t know the challenges of war. You don’t understand the horrors I have faced. Don’t pretend to know me, princess.”

Cara thought for a long moment, looking for common ground. It seemed they both had seen things they wished they could forget. For her, it was her father and mother, for Xerath, she didn’t know.

“I don’t know what war is like,” she admitted, her voice low and steady. “But I do know horrors.”

Xerath’s face softened, his whole mood changed upon seeing her opening up slightly. Her vulnerability changed him instantly.

“My parents did not die from illness,” Cara said bluntly. “They were murdered by an assassin. And I was there to witness it.”

Xerath’s eyes widened but said nothing. She had to lie about her parents, but she wanted to come up with a lie close to the truth, as no one could ever know what truly happened. She hated lying, it made her feel dirty and sick inside but lies were necessary in her position of power.

“Very few know this,” she said. “Only a select few know they were assassinated. The public believes they died of an illness though rumors spread they were poisoned. It doesn’t matter in the end what they think, only they need not know.”

“I am sorry,” Xerath said softly. “Losing family is hard enough but to lose them in that way…” he paused. “It must truly be difficult for you and your brother. Does he know?”

“He doesn’t.” Cara admitted. “Erik still believes they fell sick and died.”

“I see. Did you catch those responsible?” Xerath asked.

“Regrettably, no.” she lied.

“Then may I offer my assistance. I have men who specialize in tracking assassins such as these. There is always a trail to follow.” Xerath offered.

“That won’t be necessary.” Cara frowned. “It has been too long already, they have already disappeared.”

“Are you sure?” Xerath pushed. “My men are the best at what they do.”

“Thank you but no,” Cara said calmly, trying to change the subject. “I have made my peace with it. I wish to move on.”

“Very well. I can understand that.” Xerath pursed his lips. “I… I am sorry for my outburst earlier.”

“Think nothing of it.” Cara waved her hand. “I too spoke harshly of you. It’s clear we underestimate each other.”

“Ha.” Xerath chuckled. “I would like to remedy that.” he gazed intently into her eyes.

His brown eyes were intoxicating, along with his beautiful black hair and his handsome face. He almost looked pretty with his perfectly scared jaw and nose but he had an air of manliness behind the eyes which kept her stared glued to his own. Her heart seemed to flutter and she struggled to maintain a cool head.

“You are stunningly beautiful, princess.” Xerath complimented again. “Your purple eyes are quite strange, however. Did you get them from your mother?”

Xerath couldn’t know the sting it caused asking that question but she didn’t let it show, “My eyes are my own. A defect perhaps. They are strange I must admit.” she said shyly.

“I meant that as a compliment.” Xerath clarified. “They are unique. I like your eyes.”

“Thank you.” she paused unsure how to take the flur of compliments. “I appreciate the flattery but I am not one to be wooed by such things. I suggested our marriage because it would be mutually beneficial for both of us.”

“Mutually?” Xerath tilted his head. “How so?”

“Vulkira is rich in minerals and opening trade routes to Xer will boost your economy and strengthen your hold of both nations.” Cara started. “As your queen, I would provide shortcuts into my country that would otherwise be impossible for you. Xer will have their ores and gold and… you will have me,” she said that last part with a bit of bitterness.

“What’s in it for you?” Xerath asked, looking to know already but curious with her own answer. “You don’t seem to like the idea of marrying me, so why push for this alliance.”

He seemed to be taunting her but at the same time, he genuinely seemed to want an answer from her as she did indeed dislike the idea of marrying him. However handsome he was, she wanted to be her own woman, unbound to any man.

“Being perfectly honest, I don’t. But I love my brother and I love my country. Our marriage would secure my brother’s kingship and provide Vulkira with safety from others, such as Tykin. And we both know how much they covet our resources.”

Cara continued to gaze at him from across the table, refusing to avert her eyes. He seemed to be testing her in some way, which frustrated her because he was still playing games.

“I don’t see you jumping for joy either. You said yourself you intended to reject our marriage so why haven’t you?” she put the question onto him.

He gave a faint smile then leaned back, “You are young.” he started. “You aren’t weak however, I can see that. And before today I hadn’t the slightest idea what you looked like or knew your personality.”

“And you think you know my personality now?” Cara guessed, sighing.

“No.” Xerath surprised her. “But I would like to get to know you. You aren’t like any woman I’ve ever met.”

This time, Cara blushed, her cheeks turning red and she berated herself for losing control of her emotions. She didn’t know what to say now, he hadn’t said yes or no.

“I agree to the marriage,” Xerath said. “Though, Jebbin did his best to warn me of you and our future.”

“He did what!” she jerked up in her chair. “What did he say about me?” she demanded.

Xerath merely smiled and cocked his head in laughter, “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you. Jebbin is a strange one. I'll give him that and he cares for you like a father. You are blessed to have him by your side.”

“Yes,” Cara mumbled in surprise at the response. “Jebbin is a good man.”

“Well.” Xerath stood. “What now?”

“We…” she paused, unsure what to do. “I actually hadn’t thought about it,” Cara admitted.

“You mean you don’t have a plan further than convincing me to marry you?” Xerath chuckled. “Here I thought I had it all backward. A woman pursuing me for marriage.” he joked.

Cara couldn’t help from blushing again, then joined in his humor.

“Princess Cara, would you marry me?” Xerath asked more seriously, which caught her off guard.

The whole situation was odd and unfamiliar to her. This man was like no other, he was kind when he needed to be, stubborn and strong, but unafraid to be talked back to by a woman. Most men would ignore most of her words and dismiss her entirely, even as a princess she had little weight to carry. She relied on Jebbin to be her voice and to carry out her decisions but Xerath treated her with respect and as a person of his equal.

Her heart skipped a few beats, then her palms started to sweat, her mind racing. “What have I done?” she thought.

“Yes,” Cara said softly with a smile. “I will marry you.”