Chapter 2- Coming of Age

Today was the day, a special day, my birthday!

But not just any birthday, this was the year I became of age. The year I would finally get to court all the eligible princes and young nobles of foreign lands to help strengthen alliances and trade routes for my father.

I had been trained by the finest swordsmen to fight and protect myself. Taught by the best tutors to be proficient in every subject. I've studied every map and known trade route of the world. Followed my father's every footstep to ensure I knew how to handle the crown when it was passed down to me. I've been groomed from the day I came into existence to be my father's heir.

Thanks to him having no other children my spot as Emperor was secure for the day I choose a husband. Not someone to be above me, but in title alone to ensure heirs of my own. For I, Fanariel, soon to be Emperor of the Morcrist Empire. An empire of Elven warriors that have kept to ourselves for many years to stay true to our heritage. Now with my prompting, my emperor father has agreed to broaden our horizons and let foreign lands court me in an effort to grow our Empires power.

From the mountains in the west, the oceans to the south, the plains in the east, and the skies up above some of the most handsome, fiercest, and intelligent candidates are currently gathering in my ballroom.

Only an hour more before I go down to greet them and choose one to be my husband. May Mother Earth guide me and help me make the right decision both for our empire and my heart.