Blades Entwined

Chapter 3 - Seraphina

As I entered the grand hall, I couldn't shake the feeling of apprehension that coiled in the pit of my stomach. This meeting with Prince Thorian was arranged so suddenly, and the thought of meeting my betrothed for the first time filled me with a mix of uncertainty and resignation.

"Your Highness Prince Thorian, it's a pleasure to finally meet you," I began, my tone a bit cold and guarded. He maybe my betrothed, but it was still out of no where and I have a small right to not be so polite. But this is my kingdom on the line of war. "I hope your journey from Caelum was pleasant?"

Prince Thorian rose from his seat as I approached, his smile warm and welcoming, contrasting sharply with the chill in the air. "Thank you, Princess Seraphina. The journey was indeed enjoyable, though I must admit, I'm eager to learn more about your kingdom and its customs." He gestured to the seat beside him, inviting me to join him. "Please, join me," he said, pulling out the chair with a graceful gesture.

"Unfortunately, you just missed our Day of the Light. Where we celebrate all day long with drinking and dancing. I think its more so my mother can hold a ball during the day, she can get bored easily in this castle"

Sitting down, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease lingering between us. "I must admit, this arrangement took me by surprise," I remarked, my words tinged with skepticism.

Thorian's response was measured and understanding. "I understand, Princess. The decision was made with the best interests of our kingdoms in mind," he explained, his gaze unwavering.

I couldn't suppress the doubt that crept into my mind. "Forgive me if I find it difficult to believe that an arranged marriage will bring peace to our lands," I countered, my skepticism evident.

Thorian met my gaze with sincerity. "I share your concerns, Princess. But I believe that with time and effort, we can build a foundation of trust and understanding between our kingdoms. Caelum is one of the most populated in all of the land. We have creatures of many sizes and shapes going from bears, wolfs, to birds or snakes. As well as we have mortals living amongst us, not everyone can be born with a gift" he asserted, his tone gentle yet resolute.

His words struck a chord within me, stirring a flicker of curiosity. Perhaps there was more to Prince Thorian than I had initially assumed. As I observed Prince Thorian, I couldn't help but be struck by his appearance. His features were soft and gentle, with eyes that held a serene depth, like calm waters reflecting the sky. His blonde hair, flowing in gentle waves, seemed to shimmer in the light, adding to his ethereal aura.

There was something about him that exuded a sense of quiet confidence, a calm authority that drew others to him. His voice, with its soothing timbre, carried a weight of wisdom beyond his years, yet it was tempered with a gentleness that put me at ease.

As we conversed, I found myself captivated by his words, each one chosen with care and delivered with sincerity. There was a sincerity in his demeanor, a genuine interest in learning about my kingdom and its customs, that spoke volumes about his character.

"I didn't know you had mortals in your lands. How do you far in your lands surrounded by- " I pause not wanting to offend him saying beasts. I never spent much time outside of my castle.

"Surrounded by beasts? Is what you were going to say. We don't particular enjoy being called beasts. We always refer to ourselves are shifters. We spend years mastering our animal forms, so no one sees us as 'beasts' but I was told by my father you don't leave the castle much."

I felt a pang of guilt at Thorian's words, realizing that I had unintentionally offended him. "I apologize, Prince Thorian. I didn't mean to offend. It's just that... well, I haven't had much exposure to the world outside of my castle walls," I admitted, feeling a flush of embarrassment color my cheeks.