The Future Sun of the East Empire

Emerald Radia Arquilie, the lady of House of Arquilie is the first female heir of the family. The Arquilie's household have come from generations of Dukes and Knights loyal to the Crown. They are the strongest and second riches noble family of the East.

Being the first female born in the House of Arquilie, Emerald has been recognized as the destined Empress of East Empire through the ancient contract created by the two household. She represents the ruler of swords and shield of the East, commanding the imperial army as an equal ruler to the Emperor of Goldivia. The claws that follows the original agreement states that the title of Emperor can only be transferred through bloodline if they were to fulfil the ancient agreement when the first female heir in house of Arquilie is born.

At a very young age, Emerald was made aware that she would marry into the House of De Morgues. Emperor Callen of House of De Morgues has initially chosen his first son to finally unite the two families. However, due to a required mission, the first Prince had to be send away and because of his momentarily absence, the arrange marriage between the two household was put on hold.

Of course, for counter measurements and to secure the throne, the second Prince had to take over his brother's duties and stand as the temporary Crown Prince until the first Prince comes back.

***

"I need you to be my wife"

"What do you mean, Cal?"

"I am asking you because you are aware of the contract between our family. You should know what I mean."

Emerald was hoping that the first Prince had returned and was ready to be engaged. She's been waiting for his return. In fact, it has already been too long that he was gone. She thought that the person Leo was addressing earlier was the first Prince Calisto, the future sun of the East. But, she did not see this coming. She did not think that her hunch would point to this direction. Prince Celester is only second to the throne, he has more leniency towards who he wants to marry. But, he is choosing a political marriage like this rather than of love.

"I am aware of it, Prince Calester."

'I am also aware that I am supposed to be married to the first Prince, your brother' Emerald thought. She wanted to say those words but something is pulling her back. She kept her composure and let out a small sigh. Her thoughts unconsciously wandered to the first Prince. Maybe he is coming back. He should know that the Emperor is dying and should come home soon from his expedition. How long will it take? When will he come? All these thoughts occupied Emerald's mind and were slowly ascending with excitement. But was suddenly interrupted by Calester.

"We have no time to wait for my brother."

"!"

Emerald's response was neither an approval or refusal to the proposed marriage of the second Prince. Calester looked at Emerald with sincerity. He was determined that before their conversation was over she had said 'yes' and he knows that he has to do more than just asking.

'Do I have a say in this?' Emerald thought to ask but she decided not to. It was clear to her that it was not a matter of whether she would agree or not. But, a matter of when she will agree. She also understood that the second Prince has limited time to find another solution. With the king in bed with a terrible illness and the Calisto being absent at the moment. Calester has no choice, but to have this issue resolved by this approach. It was the only way to secure the peace of the Empire.

"I need your answer now." (Calester)

Calester never showed or laid interest to the throne. He has always believed that the rightful owner of the crown was his older brother. He was always reminded that he was only second to the throne. In his early years, he was able to understand that for him to be the owner of the crown, he had to go against his older brother. This means that blood must spill. Because of his early exposure to this truth, he lived his life without a care in the world. Although that was the case, he was still given the same education just like the Crown Prince. He was expected to learn the etiquettes of the royal family and was taught government along with Emerald and Calisto from a young age.

Because he was the second Prince, the Imperial family is more lenient towards him. He is able to do whatever he likes without restriction. Although there were incidents that have caused minor issues, it was always quickly resolved to save his reputation. He didn't care what people think of him, but he always showed compassion to the people of his empire. He was brought up more carefree and expressive of his feelings compared to this older brother who always has to look out for criticism and judgeful eyes.

Calisto stands as the representative of both the Emperor and Empress. At a young age, he was forced to abandon his childish behavior and carry the heavy responsibility of being the Crown Prince. He was still expected to work harder than his younger brother even though the crown was already his. The people of the Palace made the two brothers compete with each other hoping that it can cause distraction and lead to the rise of a new emperor. Calisto showed more perseverance to prove those aristocrats wrong. He was mature and wiser beyond his age. He was always understanding and kind to his people. He was always watchful and resourceful. Many people are convinced he will be a good emperor.

***

"I don't know what to tell you, your Majesty."

"Don't call me your Majesty, Rad"

'You expect me to accept your terms and now you are even calling me by my nickname. How far are you going to go to insult me'

"Cal is fine."

"I can't call you that.." Emerald finally rebatted.

"I am giving you permission"

"People will hear."

"Rad, I already commanded them to leave."

He shakes his head, expressing his disapproval over Emerald's stubbornness. He leaned towards his knees, touching it with his elbow. Then, put his hands close to his beautiful face. It was an imagine of a broken-hearted son. He hesitated a little and finally said, "I will divorce you when my brother returns."

Emerald was stopped on her tracks. The thought of Calisto coming back made her delighted and hopeful that there still was a chance for her and him to get together and live happily. The sounds of divorce did not seems so bad.

"Do you promise?"

Calester only responded in silence. Emerald knew Calester was not making this up nor will he be the type of person to break a promise. Ever since they were young, she knew that Calester has a strong sense of responsibility. It may appear to other people who do not know him that he is careless and lives a life that goes with the flow. But, just like his brother he was taught to think before he acts.

"And when he returns are going to let him marry me?"

"Yes"

After a thought, Emerald made up her mind.

"Then, let's make a deal"

Calester signed to Emerald's suggestion as he grew a little impatient. 'Is this the game you want to play?' He knew Emerald too well and had predicted that this would happen. He knows Emerald would not agree without pretext. His childhood friend has always been that way.

"What's your condition?"

"I want my own room in the Western Palace"

Calester thought of what Emerald had suggested. Did she wish for it because she wanted to be closer to his brother in some sense? Calester was well aware of the feelings Emerald he had for his older brother. It was not easy for him to come up to this resolve. But, he was doing it for his father. He needed to be emperor and the only way for the official to acknowledge him as the next emperor is to satisfy the condition of marrying Emerald.

'Of course' he thought to himself. 'You are still waiting for my brother even after two years'.

Without further thoughts Calester agreed to Emerald wish.

"Anything else?"

"Yes, I should be able to add new conditions even after we are married."

Calester looked at Emerald with a bothered look. What else is she going to add?

"You are welcome to add your own conditions too as you wish."

Then, without further adieu, It was settled.

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