Chapter 29

It was amazing how many strange looks you got walking beside the vampire prince when you are nothing but a mortal, but what is even more amazing, is the fact that even with all the whispers and talk, he shut them down with just one look, one look that said 'if you speak of Ariel like that again, it'll be the last time you speak' and he didn't even need to say it out loud. It made me treasure him even more, and even though we barely knew each other, I knew that whenever he was by my side, I would be safe, and that no harm would come to me. I now fully believed him when he said he would protect me and to some it may be strange that I needed proof, But after all I have been through, a little proof never hurt nobody.

We came to a set of large double stone doors, The story of a great battle carved into the stone, the intricate carvings of both people and animal alike, breathtaking to witness. I was probably one of the only mortals that would ever pass these doors who stood as a free woman. All others would've been slaves.

i Turn my head to look at the Prince, Wishing that he would say something before we entered, or that, he'd wish me luck even. Yes I know that sounds silly, but maybe it would help my nerves, even just a little bit, and for that I would be grateful. I look down at my dress, the simple blue fabric and long sleeves, black pumps on my feet and my hair up in a tight bun, wondering if I was even in any state to me to Queen. I didn't want to give up a bad first impression not when her son took such good care of me. it may not be smart, or wise, But I wanted her to like me, for who I was, especially if I were the one to give her grandchildren.

She may have approved of me on photo, or maybe even buy the story she heard, she clearly knew I was the one my great grandmother and her decided on, But what if she changed her mind in person? What if she decided I wasn't good enough for her son?

What if she decided I didn't need to live?

I wonder if Calen would protect me then? I wonder if he even could.

I took a deep breath when the doors opened, forcing myself to appear strong, to not show the fear that I felt so deep inside.

The throne room was more vast than anything I've ever seen before, with a high stonewalls, even so far underground, the carvings similar to what was on the door. It was the same throughout the entire grand hall. it Was like a long dining room, with two magnificent gold throwns at the end, vines and thorns carved into them. On the throne sat a beautiful woman, One that clearly held herself with great power, She didn't need to be told, she was powerful, she already knew it, and she wore it with pride. The silver and gold crown on her head was probably worth more money than i had ever seen in my entire life, And it was even more beautiful than I could ever hope to be.

She looked just like Calen, Emerald eyes glowing in the dim light, half of the candles in the room left untouched. She wore a gown that matched her eyes perfectly, the fabric crafted just for her. The material looked soft and silky, and the pattern was just as elegant as the rest of the throne room.

The King Sat beside her, the crown on his head, less extravagant, but just as beautiful, and he was as handsome as his sons, Though he looked more like Edward than Calen.

Both of their eyes turn towards me as we entered, scrutinising my every feature, straightaway looking for weakness, looking for any sign that i wasn't who they thought I was. It looked like it took them a lot trust too and I couldn't blame them; The world was a cruel place. if you didn't fight for what you had, or what you wanted then you would have nothing at all.

"majesties." i bowed, walking up beside my betrothed.

Once again, hoping he would protect me.

Or even that I would be able to protect myself.

"My boy." the Queen gushed happily, holding out her arms as she stood.

Calen approached her right away, pulling her into his embrace and spinning her around as they both laughed with glee.

The Queen turn to look at me when she released her son, her voice high and happy "you don't need to use such formalities with me, you are family my dear, your great grandmother and I decided on that." she said swwetly.

"how do you know that is me?" I said sceptically. "surely you can't know which great grandchild she meant."

"Oh, but I do Ariel, didn't you know your great grandmother was a Sier? That she saw the future."

My Face paled, "no I didn't know that, my mother never told me, and neither did my sister."

The Queen shrugged, "then perhaps they didn't know either, but believe me when I tell you, I am not wrong. You are destined for great things and I can't wait to see them come to pass." She turned towards her son again, "but let's not bore you both with the details, Surely you are both tired from your long trip, Why don't you both go get some rest? We can arrange the engagement ceremony for tomorrow."

"tomorrow?" I gasped, not expecting it to be any time soon. Let alone as soon as tomorrow. "I have only just got here and I've only just met Calen."

"oh, but we are so behind schedule, you were supposed to be here weeks ago, until that pesky Theon got to you first." she's sighs heavily, shaking her head as if it was nothing but tedious work. "don't worry, though we can easily make up for lost time."

"but I'm not sure I want to get married yet, or become a vampire so soon." i whisper, too afraid to use the full extent of my voice. The fear was finally getting the better of me, although it wasn't because of her, it was because of what was going to come to pass.

Calen walked back down the steps and took my hand, "don't worry, Ariel, the engagement just shows you are mine, doesn't mean we have to move fast."

"listen to your betrothed dear, he will always know what is best for you, now go and rest, you are in the Royal Suite, I'm sure you'll find it more than adequate." the Queen smiled warmly, waving her hand, dismiss us.