Next

i had a blank expression on my face while my mother continued weeping. her eyes were red and father was walking in our direction. "my child, the emperor has seen your talents and requests that you move to the palace, it will be your new home from now on" he said. suddenly tears began rolling down my face, i could not believe it, i was only sixteen and such a huge responsibility was put on my shoulders. i was scared and angry, "why me" i shouted "there are plenty of other beautiful and talented girls out there". my father placed a hand on my mothers shoulders signaling her to stop weeping, she slowed down but i could still see the sadness and pain in her eyes. at that very moment Mona came towards us. "Duke, there is an imperial carriage stationed at the grand gates, what shall we do?" i knew they were coming for me. my father lost his regularly light and happy aura. "my child, things are bad in the kingdom and a war has begun in southern Rhea. The emperor is dying and the second prince will soon take the throne, he needs a woman by his side to help him rule this great nation." said father in a sad tone. i looked back at my mother and just walked away towards the main gates, i didn't want my family to get punished if i disobeyed his majesty's orders or if i was late.