3 Ch. 2: Meeting Him Part 1 (Throne Room)

(Remember to look at my comment at the end of the chapter. I will explain the main character's names.)

***Officially Chapter Two***

POV---ATHENA---

As I follow The Tyrant or what everyone calls him, The King of Eden back to the Throne Room I chant my promise in my head, "I will tell my people the truth of who their king really is, and I will free them. I will free them even if it cost me my life." It becomes my mantra. I see The Tyrant nearing the Throne Room which only reinforces my fire for freedom. The two guards posted at the entrance of the Throne Room opens the doors for us.

The Throne Room attendant announces our arrival to whoever is in the Throne Room. "Please welcome their royal majesties King Ciaran Dolion and Princess Regent Athena Dolion of Eden."

As we enter the room I see another king and queen and their family. At first, I couldn't tell which kingdom they belonged to but then I noticed a distinct feature on the king and his children. They all had golden-colored eyes. Then I noticed one of their attendants with a flag that carried their family crest. It was the Dragon King of Angolia, William. His queen Mystify and their four children were also with them. All of whom were also dragons, but they didn't all breathe fire. They all had different power or powers that made them unique.

King William spoke to The Tyrant, "Hello my dear King Ciaran. I am glad my family and I could come to your kingdom to celebrate your daughter's 21st birthday. So, I am very honored to be able to attend the ceremony."

The Tyrant or as you may have guessed is my father replied to King William, "Yes, it is very important indeed. As you know that a royal child's 21st birthday their marriage will be announced. But in my kingdom, their spirit animal is revealed to the royal family and to the world as well."

King William replies, "Ahh, yes. I remember now that several generations back one of your ancestors married a powerful sorceress. Since then, her power has been passed on from generation to generation. But her power has also allowed your family to mate compatibly with any wereanimals and other mystical creatures."

The Tyrant replies, "Yes. Thanks to my ancestor Queen Asta of Delphine my family has been blessed. Since then, we have held the Spirit Animal Ceremony because her power allowed us to mate with any fantasy species that we don't know what our offspring will be until their 21st birthday."

"Which is why I am so honored to be able to witness such an important event. If you do not mind me asking, why have you decided to meet my family and me privately?", said King William.

"I have chosen your second son as the future husband of the Princess Regent. I hope that you are in accordance. If not, then say so now and I will pick another prince from any other kingdom." said The Tyrant.

"I am highly honored that you have chosen one of my sons to be the future husband of your daughter. But I believe that all of my children should make the final choice.", King William replies. Then he turns to one of the princes and asks, "Rain, my boy. Are you in accordance with this marriage?"

Then the tallest of the two princes responds, "Yes, King Father. I will marry the Princess Regent of Eden."

King William says, "Great! Happy news! King Ciaran will the engagement be announced during the Spirit Animal Ceremony or after?"

"Yes, in tomorrow's ball after the Spirit Animal Ceremony I will announce to the world that your second son will be married to my daughter.", The Tyrant replies.

All while the kings were exchanging words I only listen with half an ear since I was immersed in my thoughts. I simply did not care for any of the people here. But then I heard King William voice.

King William says, "Well, let me please say that I am highly honored, and I express my extreme gratitude. Please let me formally introduce you to my second son. Rain, please step forward and greet King Ciaran."

At the moment I heard that one of the princes would be formally introduced to The Tyrant I gave my attention to the situation. Before coming here, I already knew that The Tyrant wanted to marry me off to a prince. But finally seeing who it would be, made me pay attention.

King William says, "King Ciaran Dolion and Princess Regent Athena Dolion of Eden, I formally introduce to you, Prince Rainer Armani of Angolia."

As the prince was being formally introduced to The Tyrant he stepped forward and bowed. When I heard his deep voice, I was captivated by him.

Prince Rainer says to The Tyrant and me, "Greetings King Ciaran and Princess Regent Athena. I am Prince Rainer Armani of Angolia. I am honored to make your acquaintance."

Once he stood up straight I was able to fully see him. He had jet black hair, a strong jawline, and nose. His full lips were perfectly shaped, and his round eyes were bright gold. He was tall probably six feet and three inches. Under his suit, I could tell he had a nice body. It wasn't bulky but lean with muscle. Then he turned to look at me. I instantly felt embarrassed, but you wouldn't have been able to tell. Remember I am able to hide my emotions very well. But then I broke our eye contact. I started to feel resentment towards the handsome prince because his presence just proves to me once more that The Tyrant wants to rule my life. The more time I spent in their company the more they fueled my rage.

But then I hear The Tyrants say, "Athena, please step forward and greet King William and Prince Rainer.

I move toward the king and prince.

As soon as I am close to them I bow my respects all the while The Tyrant says, "King William and Prince Rainer of Angolia, may I formally introduce Princess Regent Athena Dolion of Eden."

As I raise up I say to the king and prince, "I am Princess Regent Athena Dolion. I am please to make your acquaintance and look forward to deepening our relationship."

Then I see that the king is smiling at me. His smile is genuine, and I can tell he is a good man. Then I turn to my right and see the prince. He doesn't smile at me, but I see a flash of emotion in his eyes. As soon as it appears it is gone. No matter I still don't want anything to do with him or his family. I just wanted to be free.

"My dear King Ciaran, your daughter is extremely beautiful. She and my son will make a fine match.", King William replies.

After hearing his compliments, I return to stand next to the throne where The Tyrant is sitting. After that, I completely tune them out. Not caring what they have to say. After a few minutes I hear The Tyrant call my name.

"Athena, please show the princes and princesses to the Celestial Garden. Make sure to order refreshments.", The Tyrant tells me.

I reply, "Yes, King Father." Then I turn my attention to the two princes and two princesses. "Will you please follow me," I tell them.

I turn to leave and sense them following me. As I leave the Throne Room my heart begins to beat faster and mind begins to race with different thoughts.