Dangerous Venture

There weren't always dragons in the Valley. Not until fifty thousand years ago when seven great families of Alpha dragons came seeking a new home. They settled in the Valley, a cluster of planets in the outskirts of the Lorean galaxy. My ancestor Tiamat was their leader. She built her family’s seat of power on the largest and most lucrative planet, Xertha. The six smaller planets were split amongst the remaining families and named accordingly; Gurat, Vantas, Archilego, Benphamin, Malor, and Hosthmat.

While some families were happier with their lot than others, they remained a cohesive unit. Each colonized their planet, governing over the indigenous human populations. They used their control of the planet to mine resources, filling up their coffers.

The troubles began when entire family lines began to die out due to infertility. The first to go were the Gurat. Next, the Archilego. Fearing extinction, the remaining families had to adapt. They began mixing their genes with the human population, creating hybrids. These human hybrids were still able to achieve full dragon form, but only for set periods of time. This approach worked, but the dragon blood grew weaker with each new generation.

Once in a while, an exceptionally strong hybrid child would survive to adulthood. My mother knew when she was pregnant with me, her second child, that I would be the most powerful born in Xertha for centuries. She told me that when I kicked, she weeped with fear and excitement. She knew my birth would be both a miracle and a catalyst for outrage among the ruling class for I was to be born female. There had only been sons born to our family line for centuries so our people had become accustomed to male rulers. Female births were now taken as an omen.

When my parents died, my dear older brother Marius ascended the throne. Unfortunately, it was an open secret that his time was limited due to his sickly countenance. This, along with his infertility, made his reign an uphill battle. He stayed alive by the skin of his teeth, doing everything to ensure I would be safe after his passing.

My uncle Voll coveted the throne for himself. His claim was supported by Malor as his wife was a Malorian noble and many Xerthan nobles. He wouldn’t hesitate to kill me if given the chance. Marius’ most recent plan was to marry me to an heir of another ruling family. A plan I despised, but could see merit in. It would give my claim more legitimacy when Marius passed.

Elias, my betrothed, was the heir to the throne on Benphamin. It was the poorest planet in the Valley as it lacked the resources of the others. Ninety percent of the planet was wasteland. The Benphamins had been relegated to this planet due to a fued with my ancestor Tiamat. She had disapproved of their patriarchal structure, at a time when most Alpha dragon families put strength as a measure of fitness before gender. She must turn in her grave at the current state of affairs in Xertha. One of the strongest dragon hybrid born in centuries, endangered by her sex.

What Benphamin lacked in physical resources, it made up for in its military prowess. While the other planets in The Valley evolved and became constitutional monarchies, favoring equality among their constituents over oppression, Benphamin maintained its authoritarian structure. There was mandatory military conscription for both hybrids and humans alike.

We relied on Benphamin to protect The Valley from invading forces. In times of peace, however, they often aimed their aggression towards their surrounding planets. They had been a thorn in my father and brother’s side. Xertha had entire councils dedicated to managing relations between our two planets. My personal feelings about Benphamin aside, they would be a powerful ally to back my claim to the imperial throne. Even though Xertha’s seniority over the other planets was mostly symbolic at this point, as each planet established it’s own sovereignty, it was still by far the richest and most powerful.

Instead of focusing on the dreaded wedding, I poured my energy into my attire for this evening. Elias and I had our formal engagement presentation today, which would incidentally be our first meeting. I needed to dress regally in order to enunciate the point that I should be queen of Xertha in my own right.

“Blue is your color, Ciara.” A voice came from behind me. In the mirror I saw Marius and his partner Excelsior, who we affectionately called Cel, standing in the doorway. Cel was a master magician whose potions had extended Marius’ life by years.

“This is definitely a statement.” Marius said, walking over to examine my attire. My head was adorned with two intricate braids dripping in jewels. My dress was dark blue and floor length, with tasteful cleavage and flowing sleeves. I wore a large sapphire choker around my neck that matched my droplet earrings. I had kept my makeup simple, highlighting my high cheekbones and bright green eyes.

“You are almost as pretty as your brother Ciara.” Cel joked, giving me a warm smile in the mirror. I slapped him on the chest in retort.

“Ouch, rings!” He exclaimed dramatically.

“Ciara.” Marius said, almost nervously. “The prince has arrived and requested to speak with you.” My heart started beating fast, I wasn’t ready to face this reality yet. I quickly composed myself.

“He requested to see me?” I said with disgust. “Whose kingdom does he think he’s in?”

“He’s very handsome.” Cel said in a mocking tone.

“I’ve heard he’s arrogant.” I said.

“If I had that bone structure, I’d be arrogant too.” Cel said, plopping himself on my couch and pretending to groom his nails.

“If you aren’t ready, I can say you will call on him later.” Marius said, in a soothing tone. He placed a hand on my back and I looked at him. This was his attempt to protect me so he can die in peace. I took a deep breath and mustered up all of my strength. I would do this, for him.

“Tell him to wait in the formal drawing room, the one in our parent’s old wing. I will meet him there shortly.” Marius nodded and called over a guard to relay instructions.

“I can come with you, if you want.” Marius said.

“No, I will do this myself. Besides, it will be just me and him for the rest of our lives anyway.”

“Hah! If you’re lucky. The Benphamins aren’t known for their fidelity.” Cel quipped from the couch, which earned him a stern look from Marius.

“What royal family is known for their fidelity?” I said, which shut Cel up. I did feel a little bad so I engaged Cel in casual conversation about his beloved pets as I donned some finishing touches. Once my look was complete, I took one last glance in the mirror.

“Well, here’s to nothing.” I said, taking a deep breath. Cel stood and gave me a hug, whispering some words of encouragement. I loved the cheeky bastard like a brother. Marius kissed my head and wished me good luck before I headed for the door.

~~~

I began the long walk to the formal sitting room. I wondered if Elias would be cruel like his home planet. He would have done years of conscripted military service, regardless of his station. I imagined he would be buttoned up and strict. Though, it is hardly fair to judge a person based on where they were born. Xertha used to be heralded as the fount of romance and gender equality, yet their future queen was being forced to wed a stranger for her own safety.

When I reached the formal drawing room, the guards opened the door for me and I entered. The room was brightly lit by afternoon sun and Elias stood facing the large bay window. The guard lingered for a moment at the door.

“You may leave us.” I said and watched the guard close the door behind him. I was stalling before I turned back around. When I finally did, Elias had turned to face me.

“You requested my presence.” I said with a twinge of annoyance. Well, perhaps more than a twinge. ‘Play nice, Ciara’ I could hear my late mother’s words in my head.

“Ah, I’ve struck a nerve.” Elias said with a small chuckle. He stood tall and lean, dressed in black loungewear. I didn’t know whether to be offended or embarassed by the contrast in our attire.

“Shall we sit?” I asked, taking a seat on the daybed closest to the door. Elias nodded and took a seat on the chair across from me.

“I apologize for the informality.” He said, gesturing at his outfit. “I just landed.”

Up close, I could tell his dark hair was still wet from a shower. He was indeed handsome, with deep set black eyes and a long face. He wore a silver hoop in his long aquiline nose, which was an unusual choice for a man of his rank.

“I thought your party landed hours ago.” I said.

“They did, I flew separately.”

It dawned on me that he meant he had flown from Benphamin to Xertha in dragon form. That took incredible strength, I had certainly never flown that far. If you run out of steam mid flight, it was an instant death sentence as our human form could not withstand the atmosphere of space. I had heard rumors that he was an exceptional hybrid, but I always chalked it up to Benphamin propaganda.

“Ah, why not travel with the others?” I asked, trying not to let on that I was impressed.

“I wanted some alone time to think.” Elias said, it wasn’t the answer I was expecting.

“So, what did you want to discuss?” I asked.

“Oh, well, nothing in particular I guess.” He said leaning forward, placing his elbows on his knees. “I thought it would be more comfortable to meet in an informal setting before all, you know, the pageantry.”

“You don’t enjoy the pageantry?” I asked, mimicking his exasperated tone.

“Gods no. Torturous affair. Do you?” He asked. I paused at the question, looking for a sign of mockery. Instead, I only found sincerity in his eyes.

“I like any opportunity to show up my uncle and his band of brats.” I answered, honestly.

“Now that I can get behind.” Elias said with a contagious smile.

We looked at each other for a moment. I watched his eyes drop to the floor and back, lingering on my rings. I wore three rings on each hand. Each of them were both beautiful and functional. Some were adorned with precious stones that helped me to channel my power, others had protective elements. I took off the Amethyst ring and handed it to him.

“That used to belong to my mother.” I said. “The ring was infused with a piece of my hair and she never took it off. If anything happened to me, she could feel it as though it happened to her.”

He slipped the ring on his smallest finger. I took a sharp diamond pin out of my braid and used it to slice open my fingertip. Blood dripped onto the floor as Elias grabbed his own finger with surprise. I waved my hand over the cut and it healed.

“Fascinating.” He said, handing the ring back. “Is it just physical pain that transfers?”

“No, any sensation strong enough whether it be emotional or physical will transfer.” I said. I blushed when I realized the implication.

“I think I would cut my own mother’s finger off if she possessed something similar.” Elias joked and we both laughed.

“Well, my mother passed when I was very young and I have been keeping close guard of it ever since.” I said.

“Very wise indeed.” Elias said. I placed the ring back on my finger and we sat in silence for a few moments. I was pleasantly surprised by him. His presence was strong yet oddly comforting. I expected a strict and cold Benphamin soldier. The man who sat in front of me was far from it.

“So, we are to be married then.” He looked away, as though uncomfortable with the idea.

“That is the purpose of your trip.” I said. “Is it something you object to?”

“No, I will go through with it.” He said, looking down at his hands.

“As will I, so my brother can die in peace.” I said. Elias’ eyes darted up at me in surprise. “It’s an open secret, you don’t have to pretend he has long to live for my sake.”

I felt a pain in my chest. Anticipation for this wedding had become a welcome distraction from Marius’ declining health.

“You have my condolences, Ciara.” He said quietly. His expression was solemn and empathy pooled in his dark eyes. If I looked into them any longer, I feared I might become emotional.

“Well, anyway.” I said, changing the subject. “What is it you seek to gain from this marriage?”

“My son will have claim to the Xerthan throne.” He didn’t shy away from my rude bluntness.

“And if we only have daughters?” I asked. Elias let out a snort.

“Well, hopefully my father’s dead before we find that out.”

“Ah, so I am to believe the ambition ends with the father?”

“Believe it or not, that’s the truth.” Elias said. He sighed deeply, gaining the courage to say something else. “I was betrothed to someone else, before your brother arranged this with my father. My heart lies there, but my duty lies here as I am the only heir.”

My hands went numb and a pang of disappointment ran through my body. The small flame of hope I held that this could be a loving marriage was snuffed out. I chided myself for being foolish. Elias studied me, searching my face for a reaction. I made sure he would find none.

“Well, thank you for keeping me apprised of the whole situation.” I said in a diplomatic tone, a princess’ best defense mechanism. Elias sighed and plopped his head into his palms, running his fingers through his hair.

“I will support your claim to the throne, Ciara, and I will protect you. No one will even get close to laying a hand on you. That, I swear.” He said, lifting his eyes to mine.

“That’s comforting to hear.” I said with a practiced smile.

“I am sorry to put you in this situation.” He said, and I could tell on his face it was weighing on him.

“Nothing to be sorry about. It is an arranged marriage of mutual benefit.”

“You sound like my mother.”

“She must be a wise woman.” Elias snorted a laugh at this

“That she is, that she is.” He said, sitting up and straightening his shirt. “You’ll meet her when we travel back to Benphamin. She and my sisters are dying to meet the famous Xerthan princess.”

“Famous or infamous.” I said under my breath.

“Infamous? Is there something I should know about, Ciara?” He asked with a cheeky grin.

“Well, I am sure you will hear plenty tonight. Voll’s smear campaign is in full effect.” I said.

“Ah, well these smears haven’t made it to Benphamin. Besides, we like to size people up face to face.” Elias said. It was actually comforting to hear. I had existed in the Xerthan bubble of salacious gossip. Perhaps living in Benphamin would offer me some respite.

“I’m glad. Most of them are completely fabricated anyhow.” I said.

“Most of them?” Elias asked, raising one eyebrow.

“Well I’m not completely perfect all the time.” I said with a tinge of humor.

“I’m glad, it’ll give us plenty to talk about.” He smiled warmly.

“Well, I must prepare for this evening.” I said standing. “It was nice meeting you.”

“Likewise.” He said and I walked to the door. I knocked and the guard opened.

“Ciara.” Elias said before the door closed behind me. “I have no doubt you will show up the entire court tonight.”

“I may have a chance, if my counterpart changes out of his ratty sweatpants.” I said, giving him one last lookover. I could hear his laughter ring out as I walked down the hallway. It was a bittersweet sound.

~~~

I waited in the antechamber for the announcer to introduce me to the great hall. Marius and Cel stood behind me, arguing over Cel’s robe color that apparently clashed Marius’ suit. Normally I would tell them to shut up, but it calmed my nerves to hear them bicker over something so mundane.

“The royal princess Ciara.” I heard the announcer speak. I took a deep breath and walked onto the raised dais. The crowd quieted out of respect as I took my seat next to the throne. Once I was seated, they began mingling amongst themselves again and the room filled with a cacophony of greetings.

I looked out at the crowd. It was full of representatives from the foreign royal courts and Xerthan nobles. There were Xerthan constituents in attendance as well. The first thousand people to arrive were always allowed to join royal ceremonies. The crowd went silent again when my brother was announced, each of them bowing customarily as he took his seat on the throne.

“Welcome my friends.” Marius said. “I hope you enjoy the festivities and feast tonight.” The crowd cheered at the last part.

“Please clear a path.” The announcer said. The ushers on the floor maneuvered the crowd so that there was a path between the main entrance and the throne dais.

“Please welcome Elias Benphamin.” The announcer said. The two large doors at the end of the hall opened and Elias marched in with dozens of soldiers behind him. Whispers erupted throughout the court. Elias marched a few feet into the room before addressing the crowd.

“In Benphamin, we honor service. We value service over a born station. For this reason, I bring with me 200 of our most decorated soldiers to enjoy this evening’s feast. I hope that you will honor them as you honor me.” Elias said.

“Welcome, heroes of Benphamin.” Marius said, raising a glass of champagne. We had been alerted of this stunt prior to Elias’ arrival, which is why my brother did not blink an eye at the sight of a foreign army in his throne room. It was the perfect show of strength.

Elias alone walked toward the dais. He was dressed in a military uniform, decorated with symbols I did not recognize. The calm openness that I had encountered earlier was gone from his face. Stood before me was the cunning heir of Benphamin, with rigid posture and a cold demeanor. Once he reached the edge of the dais, I stood and walked down to meet him. He pulled a small emerald ring out of his pocket, I had been told it was an ancient family heirloom. I held out my hand so he could place it on my finger.

“The engagement is accepted. The royal wedding commences in one week’s time.” The announcer said. “Accept this ceremonial drink on behalf of the couple.”

Each member of the crowd raised the glass of champagne they were provided in toast to the upcoming betrothal. After the formalities were complete, the great hall descended into reverie. I turned from Elias to return to my seat. Before I could take a step, he grabbed my hand.

“Do I clean up well?” He asked. Turned away from the crowd, his expression melted into the warm smile I had encountered earlier. For a moment, it felt like we were alone again.

“A bit rigid for my liking but an improvement nonetheless.” I said with a cheeky grin. I was flirting with him, it must have been the bottle of champagne Cel and I finished in the antechamber coursing through my veins.

“Will you join my generals and I this evening for an afterparty?” He asked. I realized we were still holding hands. I didn’t pull mine away.

“Only if Marius and Cel can join.”

“We would be honored if they did.” Elias said, releasing my hand.

“I will see you later then.” I said, ascending the dais to take my seat next to Marius. Elias nodded at me then disappeared into the crowd to mingle with his soldiers. I hated to admit it, but I was excited to spend time with him later. This marriage would surely be a dangerous venture for my heart.