Chapter 19

Meera's feet followed Ozmen with Eryx beside her as a sense of nervous anticipation settled in the pit of her stomach. The palace corridors, usually familiar and comforting, felt like an intricate maze, and each step carried the weight of uncertainty.

Her mind raced with thoughts of the potential objections her uncle might raise. The delicate balance of alliances, the responsibilities tied to their royal lineage—everything hung in the balance. Meera's heart fluttered with apprehension as she approached the grand doors leading to the King's chambers.

"What did you tell him?" Meera looked toward Ozmen. Her question caused him to pause before the door. Ozemn's eyes betrayed the nerves Meera felt. He looked at his cousin and then at Eryx.

"I couldn't tell him the real reason for everything that happened," he said, his voice low enough to be heard by just the three of them. "So I improvised."

Eryx arched his brow.

"I told father you two are in love with one another," Ozmen declared. "Madly and hopelessly in love. So much so that if we don't agree to this marriage, Eryx will rage war with us for you."

"That's a bit much," Meera frowned. "Don't you think."

"Is it?" Ozmen looked towards Eryx. "His ships are already out at sea."

"For Henry's trial," Meera reminded him.
"Meera, do you want to get married or not?" Ozmen asked in frustration. "I'm doing everything I can over here, okay? I apologize if my story isn't ironclad."

"No," Meera's frown deepened. "I'm sorry, Ozmen. I didn't mean to question you."

"Just play along," Ozmen instructed. "Stand next to each other, hold hands, look at one another."

Meera slowly nodded her head, feeling her heartbeat pick up as Ozmen grabbed the door handles and pushed them forward. The grand doors swung open, revealing the opulent room beyond. As the trio entered, Meera's gaze swept across the opulence of her uncle's private chamber. The walls adorned with intricate tapestries evoked memories of a time when this room belonged to her parents. The air carried the distinct fragrance of polished mahogany, triggering a wave of nostalgia and a tightening sensation in Meera's throat.

The room, once a sanctuary for her parents and her, now hosted a different atmosphere. King Neftali, reclining against the grand oak headboard of the lavish bed, seemed an imposing figure in the bright sunling. The rustling of sheets echoed as he shifted his position, fixing his gaze upon Meera, Eryx, and Ozmen with a look of expectation. Meera couldn't help but feel the weight of history in this room, and the presence of her uncle only intensified the significance of the moment.

Meera exchanged a quick, nervous glance with Eryx, who maintained an unreadable expression. Ozmen, despite the lingering tension, skillfully wore a practiced smile, trying to create an atmosphere of ease.

"Father," he announced, stepping forward, "look who's here to see you."

King Neftali's gaze shifted back to Meera. With a subtle gesture, he raised his hand, beckoning for her to come closer. As Meera hurried to her uncle's side, a surge of pressure built in her chest. She clasped his hand, feeling a stubborn tear trace down her face. Neftali's touch on the edge of her face was gentle, and his eyes softened as he offered her a reassuring smile. At that moment, the imposing figure of the king seemed to dissolve, replaced by a caring uncle who touched Meera's head and patted her shoulder with genuine warmth. The air in the room lightened.

"You had us all so worried," Neftali said, his voice still weak from the venomfire.

"I'm so sorry," Meera whispered, gripping her uncle's hand. "Please forgive me."

"Why wouldn't you tell us about him?" Neftali asked. "Have we ever denied any of your wishes?"

Meera took a deep breath, silently bracing herself for the upcoming act. She pulled back and rose from the bed, wiping her eyes.

"I believe it's time we put an end to the misunderstandings surrounding their relationship," Ozmen spoke.

Eryx, standing by Meera's side, played his part with a convincing intensity. He took Meera's hand, intertwining their fingers, and gazed into her eyes as if lost in an overwhelming emotion.

Neftali's eyebrows furrowed, his piercing eyes focused on Eryx. "Explain yourself."

Meera filled her lungs once more, "Uncle, Eryx and I... we are deeply in love," she declared, her voice steady but her heart pounding. "Our feelings for each other are undeniable, and we cannot bear to be apart any longer."

Ozmen nodded in agreement, reinforcing the narrative. "Indeed, father. The connection between them is unparalleled. If we deny them this union, it might lead to dire consequences. Eryx is prepared to go to war to defend the woman he loves."

Neftali's expression shifted from confusion to skepticism. "War? This is preposterous. Eryx, is this true?"

Eryx maintained a dignified composure. "Your Majesty, I would not seek conflict unless it were absolutely necessary. However, the depth of our love is undeniable. I am willing to go to great lengths to ensure Meera's happiness and our union."

As the tension thickened in the room, Meera silently prayed that her uncle would buy into the elaborate charade. She could feel Eryx's firm grip on her hand, a lifeline in this intricate dance of deceit. With each passing moment, her heart fluttered, especially when Eryx spoke about their love. The connection between them was palpable, and Meera found herself hoping that her uncle would accept their fabricated truth.

As the elaborate narrative unfolded before him, King Neftali became a canvas painted with conflicting emotions. His furrowed brows expressed skepticism, while his piercing eyes betrayed a struggle within. Neftali's weakened frame seemed caught between doubt and the desire to believe the tale spun by his son and niece.

The tapestries on the chamber walls bore witness to the silent turmoil within Neftali. His gaze shifted between Meera, Eryx, and Ozmen, searching for sincerity in their words. The light accentuated the lines on his face, etching the years of rule and wisdom that seemed momentarily challenged.

The heaviness of the situation pressed upon Neftali's shoulders, and the rustling of the bed sheets mirrored the internal conflict raging within him. His lips, which had uttered commands and decrees, now remained silent, wrestling with the implications of this unexpected revelation.

In those moments, Neftali grappled with the delicate balance between his protective instincts for Meera and the diplomatic challenges posed by Eryx's alleged readiness for war. The chamber's atmosphere held the weight of impending decisions, and Neftali's conflicted expression mirrored the complexity of the choice that lay before him.

"I would lke to speak to Meera," He declared. "Alone."

"Yes, of course," Ozmen said at once. "We'll be right outside."

Meera swallowed the pressure inside her chest as Eryx squeezed her hand and gave her a small nod. He reached up and touched the edge of her face as if to let her know he was never too far.

Meera bit down on her lip and watched the men walk out of the room. As the heavy doors closed behind her, Neftali called her to sit beside him.

"Meera," he began slowly. "The day the Voreans brought you back to Azmeera, I made a vow to my dead brother. I performed his last rites and walked out into the sea where he and your mother were lost. I promised them I would look after you like my own daughter."

Meera's eyes welled up with tears. She covered her mouth as memories of her parents' funeral came rushing back to her.

"Our father passed away when I was very young like you," Neftali said. "Yohan had been more like a father to me than a brother. Whenever I look at you, I think of him."

"I miss him terribly," Meera said, her voice small.

"He would want you to be happy," Neftali said. "I want you to be happy. But above all else, we both want you to be safe."

Meera nodded, understanding Neftali's conflict.

"The Voreans are not like us," he explained. "They're a military region. They follow strict rules and have completely different traditions from us. I can't help by worry that you will not adjust to their lifestyle."

Meera's heart squeezed as Neftali spoke. She had never imagined she would be leaving home to go so far away. The only time she had left Azmeera's shores, she returned an orphan. The fear of leaving home didn't escape Meera's heart.

"Is he who you want?" Neftali asked, his eyes locked on Meera to make sure she answered with honestly. "Will you be happy with him?"

Meera nodded and whispered, "Yes...."

Neftali sighed, a deep, contemplative exhale that echoed the internal struggle within him. He continued to hold Meera's hands, his silence lingered with unspoken reservations.

Finally, he looked up, his gaze meeting Meera's with a mixture of concern and affection. "Meera," he began, his voice carrying the weight of his internal deliberation, "You know I want nothing but your happiness. But I can't help but worry. Marriage is a profound journey and Eryx, well, he's a complex soul."

Meera's eyes searched his face, understanding the unspoken words. Neftali hesitated, choosing his next words carefully.

"But," he continued, a soft smile breaking through the seriousness, "if he truly makes you happy, if he's the other half of your moon, then I can't stand in the way of that. I'll support you because your happiness means the world to me."

His hands tightened around hers, a silent pledge to stand by her side, even if his reservations lingered in the shadow of his approval. Meera smiled gratefully, knowing that Neftali's concern stemmed from a place of genuine care.

With a nod, she whispered, "Thank you."

In that moment, Neftali chose to set aside his apprehensions for the sake of Meera's happiness. He held out his arms and embraced her as his eyes watered, thinking about the little girl he had raised.

"We will make the announcement tonight," Neftali said. "Iris is holding a small celebration of June and my recovery."

Meera pulled back and nodded.

"You have a lot to prepare for," Neftali chuckled softly. "Go on and send Eryx inside. I would like to speak to him."

"Yes," Meera wiped her eyes and rose to her feet. She hurried to the door and pulled it open. Eryx and Ozmen looked up at once, the tension on their shoulders disappearing upon seeing Meera's smiling faces.

"Uncle wants to see you," Meera said to Eryx.

"Yes, of course," Eryx nodded, clearing his throat.

Meera's heart felt light and giddy as she followed Eryx into the room. Neftali had managed to stand up on his own as they reentered and stood before him. His eyes remained on Eryx, vetting him for the last time before he gave his words.

"Eryx, do you know why my brother and Leena named their daughter Meera?" Neftali asked.

"No, your grace," Eryx shook his head.

"It means princess," Neftali said. "And not just any princess, but the heart of Azmeera."

Eryx's eyes flickered towards Meera.

"We're giving you the heart of Azmeera," Neftali spoke with an authority that made Ozmen and Meera lowered their heads in respect. "Do not make the mistake of considering us weak. Your mountains won't survive the wrath of the ocean."

"Your highness," Eryx held up his head, undeterred by Neftali's words. "Ever since I've meet Meera, the sole purpose of my life has just been her. Protecting her, supporting her, being anything or anyone for her. I can assure you, Vorean's mountains do not blow with the wind. We stand our ground and protect what's ours."

Neftali weighted Eryx's words and the conviction in his eyes. He stood without speaking for a long time as he spun his ring on his finger.

"Very well," he said after a long pause. "You have my blessing. You two will exchange rings tonight."

_______________

The sun couldn't set sooner.

Meera's old chamber back at the palace buzzed with excitement as she prepared for her engagement. The air was filled with laughter from her cousins, the maids, and the scent of anticipation. Naya and June couldn't resist the opportunity to tease the bride to be. June, with her infectious energy and mischievous grin, sauntered over to where Meera was carefully adjusting her outfit.

"Are you sure that's the dress you want to wear?" She asked.

"Yes," Meera looked down at the lavender silk gown. "What's wrong with it?"

"It's so hard to get out of," June giggled. "Won't Eryx get impatient?"

Naya, standing nearby, joined in with a playful smirk. "Maybe he'll just rip it right off of her."

Meera gasped as her cheeks blushed and all the maids in the room giggled along with the young princess.

"Where are you learning these things?" Marcella tugged at her sister's hair as she sat down the earrings she was holding for Meera. "You spend all of your time in the kitchen and this is what they teach you?"

"Oh please," June rolled her eyes. "I know more about what happens during the wedding night than either one of you."

"June!" Meera's eyes widened. "That is not proper."

"Oh, my dear sister," June stepped forward and pinched Meera's blushing cheeks. "What Eryx will do to you is not proper."

Meera, flustered by June's words, pushed the girl's hand away. She rolled her eyes, fully aware of her cousin's tendency to exaggerate. "You two are impossible."

Naya raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Oh, Princess June. Do share with us all the knowledge you have gained from the kitchen."

June's eyes sparkled with mischievous energy. She plopped down on a cushioned stool as all the maids and Naya sat down in front of her, circling her as if she was about to pull out a storybook.

"I heard men like Prince Eryx can speak to flowers and make them bloom just by whispering sweet nothings," June giggled. "Meera might have a garden of roses by tomorrow morning."

Meera chuckled, trying to maintain composure. "You have completely lost your mind," she said before turning away to adjust the jeweled belt around her hips.

June winked at Naya as she continued, "When a man and a woman marry and are taken to their marital bed, something wonderful happens."

Meera's heart began to pound faster and faster inside of her chest. She tried to pay no mind to whatever her cousin said but each word June spoke intrigued her more and more.

"He starts off by taking her hand and bringing it to his mouth," June lowered her voice and all the young maids hung on her words. "His hungry lips leave kisses along her fingers, up her arm and across her shoulders."

Meera shut her eyes, her mind immediately thinking back to the night Eryx had buried his nose in the crook of her neck. She felt her spine shiver with warmth and it felt as if his hot breath was on her once more.

"Do you know why brides change out of their beautiful wedding dresses before they leave the celebrations?" June wiggled her brows.

"No," the maids shook their heads.

"Well..." June chuckled. "With none of her new husband's plans include a dress, ladies."

"Okay, that's it!" Marcella threw down the comb in her hand and grabbed her little sister's arm. "Enough or I'm telling Mother she needs to send you to Sion to become a priestess."

June in a fit of laughter turned towards Meera as her sister dragged her out, "Don't forget to practice your swooning, Meera. Eryx's words might be too much for an untrained heart."

Naya and the other maids giggled and laughed as they rose to their feet and returned to their work. Meera fumbled with the earrings Marcella had given her as June's words and Eryx's memories played in her mind. She sat before the mirror staring at herself wondering just what her new life would be like.

Would her and Eryx share the same connections of a regular husband and wife? Would he take her hand and walk her to their chamber after their wedding celebrations? The questions spun inside Meera's head as Marcella returned and took the earrings.

"What's wrong?" She inquired, seeing the look of worry in Meera's eyes.

"I'm just thinking about Eryx," Meera said quietly.

Marcella looked over her shoulder to make sure none of the maids were listening. She moved a bit closer to her cousin and crouched down.

"What are you thinking?" Marcella asked. "You're not having second thoughts, are you?"

"No," Meera shook her head. "No, it's not that."

"Then what is it?" Marcella questioned.

"Everyone thinks we're in love," Meera began quietly. "But this marriage has nothing to do with love."

"Which royal marriage does, Meera?" Marcella asked.

"I'm just...." Meera shrugged, struggling to voice her worries.

"All you have to do is fulfill your duties as a wife," Marcella offered. "Mother always says that each marriage is different. But in all marriages, the wife does her duties and the husband does his. You don't have to worry about anything, Meera. Eryx will do his duties as a husband."

The look of worry did not budge from Meera's eyes. She continued to chew on her bottom lip as fidgeted with the jewels of her waist belt.

"Granted this marriage has come to be under unusual circumstances," Marcella continued. "But that doesn't discredit the marriage. You and Eryx are forming a union before the gods. That holds meaning. It's not to be taken lightly."

"I know," Meera nodded. "I'm just.....I've never felt this way in regards to marrying Henry. With him, it felt as if everything would be taken care of for me. I didn't need to think about anything. Our parents would handle it all."

"But it's different with Eryx," Marcella concluded. "Because he wasn't chosen for you. You chose him."

"I did," Meera nodded.

"So now you must navigate this new life with him," Marcella laughed. "Not with his parents or his entire kingdom. Your marriage to Henry would have been to him, to his family, to his sisters, and to his countrymen."

"Oh, goodness," Meera rolled her eyes.

"See," Marcella teased, rising to her feet. "Your real prince charming swooped in at the right moment."

"And he's going to swoop you off your feet and have you yelling out his name!" June hollered from the back of the room.

"June!" Marcella and Meera yelled at the same time, mortified by the girl's dirty mouth.

All the maids in the room burst into laughter. The sound filled the night sky outside as the trumpets and drums announced Eryx's arrival. Meera felt her heart leap into her throat as everyone ran to her balcony.

"Oh my, oh my," Naya exclaimed, fanning herself with enthusiasm. "Now those are some real men."

Excitement sparkled in June's eyes as she hurried over to stand beside Naya. Together, they couldn't help but gasp and clutch each other's hands as the handsome soldiers from Voreios entered the palace behind Eryx and Zeya. Dressed in fitted black evening uniforms with a single red rose tucked into the breast pocket, they exuded an irresistible combination of strength and sophistication.

Their sharp, rugged features stood out against the tan faces of Azmeera, and the aura of masculinity that surrounded them was palpable. The girls found themselves captivated by the sight of these dashing gentlemen, who strode into the palace with an air of self-assured confidence. Each step seemed deliberate, their presence commanding attention and turning heads in their wake.

As the soldiers moved with precision and grace, the onlookers couldn't help but be drawn to their magnetic allure. Naya and June, along with many others, found themselves unabashedly appreciating the spectacle before them, caught in a collective moment of admiration for the handsome soldiers who had graced the palace with their undeniable charm.

"Meera," Naya's eyes widened, her voice filled with playful enthusiasm. "Oh, just look at Prince Eryx."

Feeling a sudden rush of shyness, Meera stepped away from the balcony, her heart fluttering with a mix of nerves and excitement. The other girls caught onto her bashfulness and erupted into giggles, unintentionally drawing the attention of the handsome soldiers. The soldiers looked up, meeting the gaze of the young ladies with smiles that only added to the fluttering atmosphere.

"I want that one," one of the maids pointed to a tall soldier.

"I want his friend," declared another.

"And I want our guests to be served drinks," Marcella said, taking charge of the moment. "Let's go, ladies. Everyone is here."

As the girls hurriedly exited through the door, giggles and laughter filled the air, carrying on the anticipation of meeting the dashing soldiers. Meera, however, made her way back to her room, her emotions a whirlwind of nerves, excitement, giddiness, and shyness.

Marcella, noticing Meera's state, shook her head and, fixing her hair, turned towards her cousin. "Are you alright?" she asked.

Meera looked up at her cousin, her beating heart making it difficult to draw in a steady breath. Nervously, she began to giggle, her face growing crimson and her breathing becoming labored.

Sensing Meera's excitement and nervousness, Marcella burst into laughter and ran towards her. She grabbed Meera's hands and pulled her into a tight embrace. No words were needed as they conveyed their shared excitement, squealing like little children and bouncing up and down.

"Okay, okay," Marcella stopped them before their carefully arranged hair became undone. "Are you ready?"

Meera nodded, her shy smile breaking through the nerves. "Yes..."

"Let's go."

Meera felt her stomach flutter with a swarm of butterflies as Marcella took her hand, leading her down the stairs. Her heart raced, and her hands and feet turned cold, anxiety bubbling within her. Everything blurred around her as she stared at the closed door of the grand hall, where the music hinted at the celebration awaiting them. Ozmen, waiting for the bride to be, looked up as they approached, offering Meera his arm.

"Here we go again," he said, offering a reassuring smile.

Gripping Ozmen's hands, Meera braced herself as the guards opened the doors. A quiet hush fell over the crowd, and they parted to create a path down the middle that led the pair straight to Eryx. Meera looked up and froze.

The butterflies in her belly seemed to double, fluttering wildly. They had no place to go but into her chest, pushing her heart into her throat. The room seemed to close in, and the distant hum of the crowd faded as she locked eyes with Eryx.

"Meera," Ozmen whispered, breaking her trance. "You have to walk."

Her gaze was transfixed by Eryx's magnetic presence. Dressed in dark clothes, his handsome features stood out. Raven hair pushed away from his face highlighting his sharp nose and defined jawline. The teasing nature of his silver eyes matched the hint of a smile playing on his lips as he arched a brow, adding to his undeniable allure.

Meera took a deep breath, willing her shaky legs to move, and started the journey down the aisle. Each step brought her closer to Eryx, the fluttering butterflies in her belly now a symphony of excitement and nervous anticipation. As she approached him, she couldn't help but be captivated by his dashing and very handsome presence, the chemistry between them sparking in the air.

"Yes, M?" Eryx's voice whispered into Meera's mind. "Having inappropriate thoughts again?"

Meera's eyes immediately lowered, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red. Feeling a surge of embarrassment, she instinctively stepped closer to Ozmen, seeking a momentary escape from Eryx's teasing presence. Ozmen, sensing Meera's discomfort, offered a supportive glance and continued leading her forward.

Eryx's playful words lingered in the air, causing a playful smirk to dance on his lips. His silver eyes sparkled with mischief as he observed Meera's reaction. The intimate connection between them allowed Eryx to playfully delve into her thoughts, a mischievous edge to his telepathic communication.

Despite her attempt to regain composure, Meera couldn't help but feel the heat of embarrassment radiating from her cheeks. The combination of Eryx's teasing and the undeniable chemistry between them left her momentarily flustered. She focused on Ozmen, grateful for the grounding presence, and silently wished for the blush on her face to subside.

But as Ozmen placed her hand in Eryx's and he squeezed her hand tightly, Meera knew Eryx wouldn't be leaving her alone any time soon for the rest of the evening. She looked up and caught the playful grin on his face as he helped onto the altar next to him.

From the side, Sion stepped forward along with Queen Iris. He took the two gold rings from the tray she held and handed one to Eryx and the other to Meera.

"Marriage is a timeless covenant between two souls," Sion imparted with wisdom. "Today marks the inception of a new journey. May it unfold with abundant happiness, boundless love, and enduring prosperity for both of you."

Meera's hands shook as she turned toward Eryx. She could feel his eyes on her face as he took her hand and slipped the ring onto her finger.

"Meera?" He whispered her name when she remained frozen, staring at her hand. "You're not having second thoughts, are you?"

Meera looked up and felt her knees grow weak. Eryx's silver eyes reminded her of a clear sky, bright and filled with the promise of endless adventures. She took a step closer and parted her lips.

"No," she said. "No second thoughts."

Eryx smiled as Meera took in a deep breath and slipped the ring onto his finger.

"Congratulations," Iris stepped forward and kissed Meera's cheeks. "All the happiness to you, my dear."

"Thank you," Meera said as someone else pulled her into another hug.

The couple were surrounded by well-wishers. Meera and Eryx stood with their backs against each other as they greeted everyone and thanked them for their wishes. Meera was grateful for Eryx's presence amongst the crowd, especially when Henry's mother and father came up to congratulate her. She stood with her breath held and thanked them. When they had nothing else to say to her, the couple turned and walked away.

Meera sighed a breath of relief, lowering her guard. She was about to turn away when she felt Eryx reach back and take her hand. Instantly, a small smile appeared on her face as they remained back to back and welcomed their guest.

After several minutes, June came trotting up to the pair with her eyes full of excitement. She squeezed herself in between Eryx and Meera and cleared her throat.

"May I borrow her for a few minutes, your grace?" June asked as she lifted Meera and Eryx's intertwined hands. "Oh my. Do these things separate?"

Chuckling, Eryx removed his hand from Meera's, "You're lucky I like you, Princess. Otherwise, I wouldn't be giving her up so easily to anyone else."

"You don't like me that much," June's nose scrunched up. "Because you fell for Meera."

"What can I say?" Eryx looked toward Meera. "She's my moon."

"Meera, how you are not a puddle of water at his feet is beyond me," June sighed.

Meera looked up and held Eryx's gaze, "That's because it takes a lot more than just some sweet words to make tides turn."

Eryx raised his brows as if to challenge her.

"Is that so?" He asked, taking a step closer.

"Eryx."

Eryx paused as Zeya walked up to the group and placed a hand on his shoulder.

"King Neftali wants to speak to you," she announced.

Eryx nodded his head. He passed Zeya a look Meera couldn't quite read before he turned towards June, "Excuse me for just a moment. And Princess June, I'm putting you in charge of my moon."

"I'll try my best," June laughed.

Zeya stepped back as Eryx gave Meera a small nod and walked off. She stood staring after him until he could no longer be seen in the crowd before turning toward Meera.

"You look beautiful," Zeya said.

"Thank you," Meera smiled. "As do you."

Zeya tried to return the smile but it did not quite reach her eyes. She politely excused herself and walked off, leaving June and Meera standing on their own.

"What did you say to her?" Marcella demanded, coming out of thin air and surprising the girls.

"Nothing," Meera's eyes widened. "What's wrong?"

"What was that look on her face?" Marcella questioned before turning toward her sister. "June, what inappropriate thing did you say?"

"Marcella, relax," Meera stopped her before June could answer. "She just said we looked beautiful and we complimented her back."

"That's it?"

"That's it," Meera nodded.

"Okay," Marcella looked back at Zeya. "I don't know....she's been very moody lately."

"She seemed fine to me," June shrugged.

"Everyone seems fine to you, June," Marcella muttered as she continued to watch Zeya laughing with one of the Vorean soldiers with a small pout on her lips. "Where's Eryx?"

"He's speaking to father," June answered. "If standing here is all you two have planned, then I will be walking away right now. I want to dance. Meera? Care to join me?"

Meera hesitated. She knew customarily, her first dance should have been with Eryx. Her eyes scanned the crowd but came up empty.

"In a few maybe," she replied.

With a shrug, June walked off. She grabbed her friend's hand and pulled her onto the dance floor where a few people were enjoying themselves to the beautiful tunes the orchestra played. Meera's eyes continued the search the sea of faces for her silver-eyed prince. But just as she was about to do her third sweep, Marcella grabbed her elbow.

"She's coming," the girl whispered. "She's coming right this way."

"Who?" Meera asked.

"Zeya," Marcella straightened up and pushed her hair back. "How do I look?"

"You look fine," Meera laughed, not understanding her cousin's nervousness.

Marcella shifted from foot to foot as her eyes watched Zeya approach them from across the dance floor. Meera could practically hear her cousin's loud heartbeat as Zeya smiled and let her eyes move from her to Marcella.

"Princess Marcella," Zeya bowed her head and lowered to a curtsey.

"Lady Zeya," Marcella cleared her throat.

"Would you like to dance, your grace?" Zeya asked.

Marcella looked to Meera and then back toward Zeya.

"You, your grace," Zeya clarified with a small smile that did reach her eyes.

"Oh," Marcella answered, completely flustered. "Yes....of course."

Meera took a step back as Marcella placed her hand in Zeya'a and the pair made their way to the dance floor. She watched them bow to one another before falling into steps with the other pairs dancing. Marcella, reserved and shy at first, soon blossomed. Her eyes lit up as she laughed and swayed. Zeya and her twirled in each other's arms as the songs changed and one dance turned into two and then three.

After a while, as Meera lingered around the edges of the dance floor, Iris walked up to her to ask what the matter was.

"Is everything alright?" She wondered. "Where's Eryx?"

"He's speaking to Uncle Neftali," Meera replied.
"Oh, that's right," Iris remembered. "Your uncle wanted to speak to Eryx about holding the wedding ceremony before the end of the week."

"What?" Meera frowned. "That's in two days."

"Yes," Iris nodded. "But we mostly have all the arrangements left from your and Henry's wedding so it should not be a problem."

"Why before the end of the week?" Meera questioned.

"Well..." Iris hesitated. Her eyes moved around the crowd nervously before she stepped closer to Meera and tucked back her hair. "We didn't want another failed match."

Her words immediately caused Meera's heart to sink.

"Whatever happened with Henry wasn't my fault," Meera said.

"No, but Eryx did come for you and you two did end up falling in love with one another," Iris pointed out. "We can't have this alliance fail too. Think of Marcella and June. Think of what everyone will say if your second engagement doesn't end with a wedding."

Meera's throat began to tighten. She felt herself shrink as she stared at her aunt.

"I don't think Eryx will mind a quick wedding," Iris said. "He's restless to get back home with his bride."

Meera didn't answer. She stood staring at Iris as the lady reached out and adjusted Meera's earrings. The weight of her words made Meera's heart feel incredibly small and powerless.

"Oh, there he is," Iris smiled, looking over Meera's shoulder.

Before Eryx could see the tears in her eyes, Meera quickly turned away and composed herself. She rolled back her shoulder and took in a deep breath before pulling on a small smile.

"Your grace," Eryx bowed his head before Iris as his hand came to rest upon Meera's back. "Am I interrupting?"

"Not at all," Iris said. "Are you ready for your first dance yet?"

"Yes," Eryx sighed. "I am."

Meera looked up as he turned toward her and took her hands.

"My apologies for keeping you waiting," Eryx said.

"It's alright," Meera answered, her gaze unable to remain on Eryx's.

"Go on," Iris urged the couple to head towards the dance floor.

With a polite smile, Eryx guided Meera towards the center of the room. Under the crystal chandeliers, he placed one hand on her lower back and the other held her hand. The music changed and all the other dancing pairs made their way of the dance floor.

"Meera?" Eryx tilted his head. "What's wrong?"

Meera shook her head, "Nothing."

Not accepting her answer, Eryx leaned in closer until his mouth was beside her ear, "Are you upset at me for leaving you alone for so long?"

Meera didn't answer. She didn't know how to tell Eryx her heart was wilting with the thoughts of leaving Azmeera before the end of the week. Meera had assumed she would have more time. But Iris's words made her realize things were happening much quicker.

"Your first hour as my soon-to-be bride and you're already upset with me?" Eryx chuckled.

Meera looked up with a deep scowl on her face. In Eryx's eyes, she could see her own reflection of the sad eyes on her face and the small v between her brows that Eryx liked. Her full lips were pulled down into a deep frown, making her look like a child.

"What's wrong?" Eryx grew serious. "Did someone say something to you?"

Meera shook her head.

"Who are we going to drown in the ocean tonight, princess?" He asked, trying to lift her mood.

"Nobody," Meera shook her head.

"Somebody here upset you," Eryx scanned the crowd over Meera's head. "Point them out or I'll drown everyone."

"Nobody upset me," Meera squeezed his arms to get his attention back. "I'm just......"

Eryx waited.

"I'm just going to miss home," Meera finished. "And it's starting to dawn on me now."

"I see," Eryx's voice softened.

Feeling the weight of her emotions on her shoulders like a boulder, Meera stepped closer and placed her head against Eryx's chest. His arms immediately wrapped around her as they silently swayed to the song that was playing. Meera closed her eyes and inhaled Eryx's scent to calm herself. She found comfort in his warm embrace as he lowered his lips to the crown of her head.

"I can't promise you Azmeera, M," he said quietly. "But know you will always have a home with me."

Meera sighed and opened her eyes. She pulled back and looked at Eryx as he gazed down at her. Their nose brushed against one another for a second and sparks ran through their bodies. The corner of Eryx's mouth curved up as he watched Meera's eyes dilate from the shock. But the moment was short-lived as his gaze flickered up and he found Zeya watching them from the edge of the dance floor.

"What's wrong?" Meera asked as Eryx slowly stopped moving his feet.

"The song changed," Eryx announced.

"Oh," Meera looked around as the other pairs began to return to the dance floor. "I would like another dance-"

"I think I should ask Queen Iris and Princess Marcella for a dance," Eryx cleared his throat. "I don't want to seem rude."

Meera felt her heart sink, "I.....understand."

"Excuse me," Eryx gave her a tight lip smile as he stepped around her and made his way to Iris. Meera stared after him, not understanding the sudden change in his behavior.

For the rest of the evening, that was all Meera did. Watch Eryx.

Like a gentleman, he danced with every lady in her family while she stood by or was forced to dance with someone else. Meera tried to catch his gaze many times but was always interrupted. Any time she tried to approach him, he moved on to the next group, completely unaware that Meera was standing right behind him.

A piercing sensation began to pinch at Meera's heart as she gave up and remained on her side of the ballroom for the rest of the night. She danced with her cousins and drank her wine while Eryx attended to his diplomatic duties with Zeya and the others. She barely thought about him. He only crossed her mind every time she looked down at the ring on her hand or caught the scent of pine and cedarwood in the air. By the time the evening ended, Meera's cheeks were flushed from the wine, and her eyelids heavy with sleep. Marcella walked her out of the ballroom and turned towards the stairs when Eryx's voice suddenly stopped them.

"Are you drunk?" Eryx inquired, his eyes settling on Meera, concern reflecting in their depths. He gently raised his arm, placing the back of his hand against her glowing cheeks.

Feeling the alcohol intensified her anger, Meera reacted with disdain, shoving his hand away as if his touch were a burning sensation. "No."

"You're flushed," Eryx observed, stepping closer, his brows knitting together in a mix of worry and irritation.

"A blushing bride," Meera retorted, her tone laced with mockery. "Is this your first time seeing one?"

Eryx's features darkened, an undercurrent of anger evident as his lips pressed into a thin line. His demeanor remained uptight and hard to read, leaving the air filled with an unspoken tension.

Meera let out a dramatic sigh and held up her head, "Good night, your grace."

"That's it?" Eryx questioned.

"What else were you expecting?" Meera's brows furrowed.

A muscle feathered in his jaw. Eryx's gaze burned into Meera's face as he took a step back.

"Good night," he said, his tone clipped as he turned to walk away.

Rolling her eyes, Meera scoffed. She glared after the prince when he suddenly turned back to look at her.

"What's your favorite color?" Eryx asked.

"What?" Meera squinted.

"Your favorite color," Eryx said. "What is it?"

Meera's eyes narrowed at his impatient tone. Her mouth twitched as she folded her arms under her chest.

"Silver," she replied.

Eryx paused as if he wasn't expecting her to say that. The hardness on his face melted a bit and a small grin made a brief appearance.

"Terrible choice," he said, before turning back around and walking away. 

Hey buttercups, don't forget to vote, okay? Let's help other people find this story so we can be one big family <3 Hope you liked it, and what do you think is going to happen next? And predictions or thoughts?