There was trouble in the East. Emperor Callen has fallen ill. The imperial doctor diagnosed the Emperor and stated that he had contracted a disease that is slowly killing him. The second Prince was made aware of this news. It was a crucial information that cannot be let out to the public due to its nature. It can create confusion to the people and might lead to a riot. It was also a huge concern for the leadership of the empire since the first Prince designated to be the next emperor is away. If anything were to happen to the Emperor before it was time to crown the next ruler, the empire will surely be thrown to chaos. For now, this information was only known to the second Prince and the Imperial doctor. In this current situation, the second prince has started moving to take precaution to save the Crown and eliminate those greedy officials who want to overthrow the current house in power.

***

“My Lady, are you awake?”

Emerald heard a knock on her bedroom door. There was a moment of hesitation as her eyes and body were just slowly gaining senses. She slowly breathed in and let out a small sigh.

“Yes, Doris. Please have my breakfast ready.” (Emerald)

“My Lady, The prince wanted to speak to you. Please allow me to enter your bedroom” (Doris)

Emerald can sense the urgency in Doris’ voice. Alerted to the sudden request that she received from the Crown Prince, she knew there was not enough time to get ready. “Cal’ she said his name under her breath. ‘Is there something to be worried about?’ she asked herself. Since they were young, there was never a time when the Prince summoned her. It was always her who always took the initiative to greet the Crown Prince. She knew her childhood friend was acting out of character that made her think it must be important if he asked her to see him first.

“Then, please have the carriage and my dress ready.”

After saying a few words, the door opened and few of the maids that assisted the headmaid went inside her bedroom. They stood on their position as they waited for Emerald to get out of bed.

“My Lady, someone from the Imperial Palace is sent to escort you to the Palace. We have your dress ready.”

“Thank you for preparing the dress, Doris”

This made Emerald nervous. ‘Why are you sending Imperial guards to escort me?’ Emerald sat up on the bed and took a moment to gather her energy. ‘Something must be going on for Cal to send out an imperial Guard.’

After getting dressed, she left her room and was greeted by one of the Second Prince Imperial guards.

“Greetings to the future Empress, the future moon of the Empire”

The Imperial guard who greeted Emerald was a loyal companion of the second Prince. It was the first time that Emerald had heard such a greeting. Was this a joke? Emerald was surprised. This was a sudden change. She knew Leo was always easy going and it was not his character to be tight and proper. Was this because it was the first time that the second Prince has asked to see her?

“Good morning, Leo,” Emerald said casually. It felt weird to be formal to Leo all of a sudden. “Why are you here?” she thought to ask even though she knew that she was being summoned by the emperor under the second Prince’s name.

“My Prince had asked for you to see him.”

Without any further conversation, Emerald proceeded to the carriage. She knew that asking Leo would be fruitless. She already understood that her being summoned to the Palace meant something that cannot be discussed in a public area. After a while, they have reached the gates to the Central Palace.

She followed Leo without a word. They walked into a garden full of different kinds of flowers. It was a beautiful garden that was famous for having such uniqueness in its atmosphere. It was known to the entire East Empire that this was the garden where the current emperor and empress first met and fell in love. This garden was a great representation of the Emperor undying affection to the Empress. He was committed to give it the most beautiful view for the empress to look at and appreciate. This has been maintained very well even after the passing away of the empress.

After a few more steps, Leo finally stopped.

“Greeting to the Crown Prince, Future sun of the Empire”

“!”

Emerald took a second to process what she heard. Confused for a second since she could not recognize the figure that was in front of her since Leo was blocking her view. But when she finally got a proper look who it was, her heart sank.

Leo bowed at the sight of the second prince sitting on the bench who was looking at a distance with his expression lost in his own thoughts.

“Greeting to the Crown Prince, Future sun of the Empire” Emerald finally spoke. She knew that it was proper etiquette to greet and properly address the members of the Royal Family. She had reorganized her facial expression since it was not appropriate to show her disappointment.

“You’re here. Come and sit”

He gestured for Emerald to sit down beside him. He looked at Leo and waved his hands. Leo took a step back and quickly disappeared from their sight.

‘Something is up.’ Emerald has playing scenarios over her head as to why she would be summoned to the Palace by the prince and be escorted by Leo. She had also started wondering why Leo would start addressing her as the Future Empress. Most of all, why is the Prince being called the Crown Prince? This is not making any sense to her. But, finally she reached a conclusion to where those questions were finally answered.

“His Majesty does not have much time.” He said gazing back to the empty space.

“What?!”

“I will be the person next in line and I need you”

Emerald couldn’t say anything.

***

The house of De Morgues rose in power and became the current Royalty of the East. They were the strongest candidates among many nobles to rule the entire East continent. They have waged war and defeated many who wanted to take over the Crown. But of course, they were not alone behind those victories, the House of Arquilie stands as their armor and sword. For many years, the two families have strengthened their oath of loyalty towards one another. The House of De Morgues was never alone to receive glory from the people they ruled over. Among the nobles, The House of Arquilie was always recognized for their efforts on building a strong empire to where others feared to go against.

For generations, both households desired to unite under one name. They entered into an agreement where an arranged marriage will proceed if House of Arquilies were to produce a female heir. But, it seems like it was not meant to be for the heavens only granted the household a male heir. While House of De Morgues continued its bloodline as the Royals, the House of Arquilies continued to be a strong supporter and great protector of the Crown.

***

“The Emperor has already passed his will.”

“!”

This means that they are not going to wait for the first Prince to be coronated as the next ruler of the East. This also means that Emerald is going to be Empress sooner than expected.

Emerald can’t find a word of comfort to the Prince due to the shock of all the things that are happening.

“Rad. Please marry me.”

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.

Calester was deep in his thoughts. Any moment now, Emerald will arrive. But, as the clock ticks and the sound echoed in the room of his chamber, his patience lessens. 'I need to talk to Father.'

"Roy, are you there?"

Calester called out. Roy, his personal assistant assigned by his older brother, was at the door.

"Any information on my brother?"

"I have send out some people to investigate Prince Calisto's whereabouts"

"Ok… then, has Leo returned?"

"Not yet, your Highness. He's still in the Arquilie's Residence"

'I have time before I meet her. I'll go see Father.'

He swung the door open and headed towards the Ruby Palace, the Emperor's chamber. He took Roy and a few of his royal guards to accompany him to his Father. As they reached the entrance, Calester was greeted by two imperial guards officially assigned to guard the Emperor's chamber.

Roy spoke to address the two guards to open the door for Calester.

"Your Highness, The Imperial doctor's are not letting anyone come inside the room. We were told that it will be dangerous for you to get infected"

When the imperial doctor found out that it was incurable disease, he quickly advised the Emperor to be treated in assolation. Due to this, all governmental activities were put on hold. Of course, the cabinets were not made aware of the Emperor's current state. This was to not jeopardize Calester's right to the throne.

Calester took a second to look at the guards. He breathed a little deeper to calm his anxiousness. He felt that everything that was happening was just a long dream. He fell silent to the guards response. He felt detached from his surroundings and couldn't understand whether the current situation was a reality or just a hallucination. He has not been able to comfortably sleep for the past few days since he found out about his father's condition. It is funny how he was never close to his father. Yet, he worries this much that he can't function properly.

Calester grew up not knowing his father's warmth. Callen was an amazing Emperor and many admire him for his dedication. As a child, there was always a piece in Calester that longs for his father's approval and validation. He sought his parent's attention, but the Emperor and Empress were always focused on the Crown Prince. He acknowledges that his older brother needed more guidance and protection since he is more exposed to public scrutiny as a young innocent child. But, he could not help to wish to have the same attention. Many people assume that they know him to be expressive and lenient. But, not many know the side of him that struggles to express his real thoughts and emotions.

"How is the Emperor?" (Calester)

The two guards looked at one another and hesitated. They did not know how to answer the Prince. There is no answer appropriate enough that can elevate the Prince's current mood. It was smarter to be silent. But, the Prince might take offense on their attitude.

"The Imperial doctor has informed us that his time will soon arrive"

Calester expected that soon people would start questioning the officials as to why the Emperor was not granting any audience to his citizens. When that happens, the officials would realize that there was something wrong. But before that occurs, Calester had already set things in motion to prepare for the worst. Any delay to this plan would lead to chaos.

He gestured to the royal guards to not be alerted and approached the entrance closer.

"Father, where is brother?"

Silence.

"I'm going to look for him. He needs to know your condition and resume his position as Crown Prince"

Silence.

"I have set a time limit for his return. If in 7 days, we fail to find him, I will marry Emerald."

He waited a moment, hoping that the Emperor would say something. He looked at the ground and Roy approached him from behind.

"You're Highness, Lady Arquilie has arrived."

He breathed in and turned his heels to the opposite direction.

" My son, I will declare now… You will be Goldivia's new Emperor."

As soon as Calester heard his father's weakened voice, he felt a pinch in his throat.