Betrothed by blood. Selection

Bride - 1

The Show Must Go On.

Prologue

The city streets of Santería were bustling from early morning. Many festively dressed people were drawn to the wide Royal Avenue. And even though now on both sides the road was blocked by a human chain of imperial guards, this did not stop the people.

For a week now, the Indarian Empire has been celebrating the tercentenary of its Founding Day. In honor of such a great event, the imperial couple decided to visit the largest urban centers, which were the capitals of independent states before the great unification. And today, the highest cortege was supposed to solemnly pass through Santeria, once considered the capital of the kingdom of Tion.

Nobody wanted to miss the opportunity to see with their own eyes those thanks to whom the empire had not yet fallen under the onslaught of invaders from the neighboring world. People crowded along the avenue, crowded on the balconies of houses stretching along the main avenue, and even on the roofs. In general, they tried to take the most convenient place for observation. No one remained indifferent, from the smallest children to the ancient old people.

And so, exactly at noon, an open snow-white platform slowly floated out onto the avenue to the sounds of solemn music. There were two people on it: a dark-haired man wrapped in a strict blue-black uniform and a frail woman in a white-gold dress shining with a scattering of diamonds. Their heads were decorated with platinum crowns.

Emperor and Empress. Bound by blood, two halves of a single whole. Those who, with the power of their magic, are able to hold the power of the Interworld Gates.

At the sight of the royal couple, the crowd burst into applause.

Emperor Garrian and Empress Anna waved greetings to the surrounding people, demonstrating stability with their whole appearance. The absence of guards on the platform seemed to hint: the emperor is strong enough to protect not only himself, but also all the people under his control.

Joyful cries, bouquets of flowers and a sea of confetti flying over the avenue, enveloping everyone with a sense of celebration.

Suddenly, a piercing whistle broke the idyll. A huge, pitch-black blob that had fallen from somewhere on the rooftops crashed into the imperial platform with incredible speed. Dark flames shot up, instantly engulfing the vehicle.

People screamed out loud. The people, choking, recoiled back. The warriors, on the contrary, rushed to the ruler, but at exactly the same moment the flame abruptly died out. Following this, the darkness of the deadly spell that had enveloped the platform disappeared, revealing to the townspeople the still shining imperial couple.

Surrounded by a slightly shimmering protective barrier, they seemed to be completely unaffected. Even the magnificent hairstyle of the Empress did not go astray.

The emperor majestically raised his hand and spoke in a voice enhanced by magic:

“Keep calm, my loyal subjects! Our valiant imperial services will find and eliminate those who prepared this assassination attempt. You and I must not let our people spoil the great holiday! We are strong! We are one! So let's rejoice and have fun!

The people met the words of the ruler with thunderous applause and shouts of praise. Fear receded, and a sense of unity and pride in their world, embedded in the words of the emperor, literally permeated each of the people.

Natalya Zhiltsova

Betrothed by blood. Choice

* * *

As soon as the cohedron went out, the kerad Ra-shahha, who was under the illusion of a lean clerk, again turned his gaze to the visitor.

A heavyset man in an expensive suit standing opposite was visibly nervous. Sweat broke out on his forehead and short neck. It is not surprising: to become a witness at such an important conversation! These usually don't last long...

However, Ra-Shahkha, although he enjoyed the emotions of his fear, did not yet plan to kill this man. For several years now, he has taken an oath of allegiance to him and has played one of the most important roles in the implementation of the current plan of kerada.

Well, let's get back to the conversation. After today's event, I hope you no longer need additional cash injections to contain negative rumors about the Duchess?

"Of course," the man said at once. - Now Lady Ariana will take a stable place in the rankings ...

– Yes, yes, of course. The man nodded and nervously tugged at his shirt collar. “Lady Ariana's passage through Sheltras Canyon made a lasting impression on everyone. I guarantee that absolutely all news publications, including ours, will be full of rave reviews. Even a conspiracy of well-born families to promote their candidates will not be able to prevent this.

- Good. What do you hear from your “best employee”? Did he at least partially justify the funds invested in the equipment?

“Lady Ariana trusts him…”

You said that last time too! interrupting, the kerad barked. “And I want the details of their conversations!” Information!

“But the Seal of Prohibition forbids Austin from telling us…”

A blow with his fist on the table made the man choke on the rest of the phrase and swallow in fright, and then stammer:

“Actually, Austin asked for our archival subscriptions about an Empress the other day. As I understand it, not for myself, but for the Duchess.

– Is that how? The Ra-Shahha narrowed his eyes. - About what?

- One second. The man began to quickly delve into the tablet artifact. - But! For some reason, he was interested in Issiana of India and the details of her accession.

- Even so? Well, perhaps I know what our little de Arden needs.” A satisfied smile appeared on the illusory human face of the kerad. - How well everything works out. Yes, we will give her this information. And even more than that, we will give her what is primarily beneficial to us.

- Sorry?

“Contact your collaborator immediately, dear Marius,” the kerad pointed to the table cohedron with a nod of his head. - And tell him that you managed to get the information he needed. The reporter should receive papers not from outside, namely from your hands. Make an appointment in two hours. By then you will have them. And, of course, your employee should still not suspect anything. Otherwise, de Arden will instantly feel falseness in his emotions.

“Of course, sir.

Marius Webber, editor-in-chief of The Imperial Gossip, bowed hastily and reached for the speech artifact.

The hysteria did not subside immediately. Even now, after half an hour, I was still sobbing, but still found the strength to rise from the floor.

I washed my face with cold water in the hope that this would finally bring me to my senses. And, looking at the trembling hands, I realized: that's enough. Enough with me selection, enough of all this!

Jumping out of the bathroom, I rushed to the closet and began frantically pulling out dresses. Only when an impressive pile formed on the floor and bed did she belatedly realize that she hadn't prepared anything to pack them. There were no suitcases in the bedroom, and I hurried to the living room.

Natalya Zhiltsova

The Show Must Go On.

And so, exactly at noon, an open snow-white platform slowly floated out onto the avenue to the sounds of solemn music. There were two on it: a dark-haired man dressed in a strict blue-black uniform and a fragile woman in a white-gold dress shining with a scattering of diamonds. Their heads were decorated with platinum crowns.

Emperor and Empress. Bound by blood, two halves of a single whole. Those who, with the power of their magic, are able to hold the power of the Interworld Gates.

At the sight of the royal couple, the crowd burst into applause.

Joyful cries, bouquets of flowers and a sea of confetti flying over the avenue, enveloping everyone with a sense of celebration.

Suddenly, a piercing whistle broke the idyll. A huge, pitch-black clot that had fallen from somewhere on the rooftops crashed into the imperial platform with incredible speed. Dark flames shot up, instantly engulfing the vehicle.

Surrounded by a slightly shimmering protective barrier, they seemed to be completely unaffected. Even the magnificent hairstyle of the Empress did not go astray.

The emperor majestically raised his hand and spoke in a voice enhanced by magic:

Remain calm, my loyal subjects! Our valiant imperial services will find and eliminate those who prepared this assassination attempt. You and I must not let our people spoil the great holiday! We are strong! We are one! So let's rejoice and have fun!

Yes, an old enemy tried to strike at the heart of the empire. Yes, I chose the most important moment for this and probably prepared for it for a long time. But still failed!

The leisurely procession continued. The emperor still majestically waved his hand, the empress smiled and seemed to literally shine, giving everyone a piece of her warmth. And so - all the time until the snow-white platform disappeared behind the high gates of the ancient Santerian palace.

However, as soon as the gates slammed shut, the roofed, windowless hangar was instantly filled with the guardsmen of the emperor's personal guard. And then, with a quiet crash, the illusion thrown on the platform disappeared, revealing a terrible picture to the eyes of those around.

The emperor in a charred doublet and with skin blackened from burns was kneeling next to his already dead wife. His chest was heaving with difficulty, and his strength was rapidly fading away.

Father! - next to the platform in a moment were two subtly similar to the ruler of young men.

Both, despite all the ancestral magic available to them, powerlessly clenched their fists. Any other person's burns would heal almost instantly. But not the emperor. Their father, unable to save his wife, was doomed. Doomed, because such was the inevitable payment of those bound by blood: after the death of one, the other died.

Ryan,” the emperor hissed, “no one should know about our death. Keep illusions constantly. Otherwise, the Nashvartsy will attack, and one cannot cope with the Gates alone. The festivities must go on.

All right, father.” One of the men, whose sharpened features seemed to be frozen, nodded curtly.

And appoint a new selection, - the emperor looked at his heir - Damian. - Say that you timed your wedding for the celebrations, justify such an early date as you like. I know you have a chosen one, so everything will be fine. You are strong. Much stronger than me. You must…

He stopped and grabbed his throat. A grunt escaped from the ruler's chest, and then the lifeless body collapsed onto the platform.

The brothers stood silently next to the bodies of their parents for some time. Not far away, white as chalk, her nearest lady-in-waiting, the dark-haired beauty Isabella, stared at the empress intently. The young countess was brought up in the palace from childhood, after her parents died during one of the assassination attempts on the emperor.

Isabella heard the instructions of the departed ruler. So when Damian looked in her direction, she nodded briefly in agreement.

Contact the master of ceremonies, - the future emperor abruptly commanded. - Let him prepare an official announcement and start sending out invitations.

Lady Ariana! Her Ladyship is urgently calling for you!

The elderly servant appeared on the threshold of my living room, looking worried and slightly out of breath.

Did something happen to us, Tamias? I put down my cup of hot tea and looked at him with mild surprise.

Despite my habit of waking up at dawn in my twenties, I never got down to business immediately after breakfast, like my grandmother. Yes, and there was no need for it. Even at the venerable age of Larinaeus, Anabella Vartan, Most Serene Duchess de Arden, was still energetic and active, preferring to keep everything in her own hands.

Of course, since my parents died, my grandmother taught me management and forced me to attend all business negotiations. However, the morning usually passed quietly.

I don't know, Lady Ariana." Tamias shrugged his shoulders in confusion. But her ladyship looked very displeased. And she ... - the servant stuttered,

Natalya Zhiltsova

Betrothed by blood. Choice

There Can Be Only One!

As soon as the cohedron went out, the kerad Ra-shahha, who was under the illusion of a lean clerk, again turned his gaze to the visitor.

Well, let's get back to the conversation. After today's event, I hope you no longer need additional cash injections to contain negative rumors about the Duchess?

Of course, - immediately assured the man. - Now Lady Ariana will take a stable place in the ranking ...

Yes, yes, of course. The man nodded and nervously tugged at his shirt collar. - Lady Ariana's passage through the Sheltras Canyon made an indelible impression on everyone. I guarantee that absolutely all news publications, including ours, will be full of rave reviews. Even a conspiracy of well-born families to promote their candidates will not be able to prevent this.

Good. What do you hear from your “best employee”? Did he at least partially justify the funds invested in the equipment?

Lady Ariana trusts him...

You said it last time too! interrupting, barked the kerad. - And I need the details of their conversations! Information!

But the Seal of Prohibition forbids Austin from telling us...

A blow with his fist on the table made the man choke on the rest of the phrase and swallow in fright, and then stammer:

In fact, Austin recently asked for our archival subscriptions about one empress. As I understand it, not for myself, but for the Duchess.

Here's how? - Ra-shahha narrowed his eyes. - About what?

Wait a second. - The man began to quickly delve into the tablet artifact. - But! For some reason, he was interested in Issiana of India and the details of her accession.

Even so? Well, perhaps I know what our little de Arden needs, - a satisfied smile appeared on the illusory human face of the kerad. - How well everything is going. Yes, we will give her this information. And even more than that, we will give her what is primarily beneficial to us.

Sorry?

Contact your employee immediately, kind Marius, - the kerad pointed to the table cohedron with a nod of his head. - And tell him that you managed to get the information he needed. The reporter should receive papers not from outside, namely from your hands. Make an appointment in two hours. By then you will have them. And, of course, your employee should still not suspect anything. Otherwise, de Arden will instantly feel falseness in his emotions.

Of course, sir.

Marius Webber, editor-in-chief of The Imperial Gossip, bowed hastily and reached for the speech artifact.

The hysteria did not subside immediately. Even now, after half an hour, I was still sobbing, but still found the strength to rise from the floor.

Stopping in the center of the room, she looked around. Where did the servants hide them?

I didn’t want to call the “overseers” assigned by the emperor ahead of time. Is it not enough? It is better to collect all the things yourself, and only put them before the fact of your immediate departure.

However, a short search of the living room yielded no results. The carved cabinets were filled with nothing but trinkets and crystal. Well, it seems that you still can’t do without maids ...

I was pulled out of my thoughts by a gentle knock on the door. And it looks like they are.

However, instead of Paulina and Newara, Philania appeared in the living room. To my astonished look, the girl explained:

I came to see how you are? After what happened ... - she broke off, seeing the scattered things behind the open bedroom door. - What are you doing?

I exhaled sharply.

I pack my things and get out of here.

How? Philania blinked in confusion, and then shook her head sharply. - Wait a minute! Not!

Yes, I snapped. - I can not do this anymore. This is not the selection of brides, but their murder!

But you can't leave!

I can very much.

No you can not! - A friend grabbed my hand with icy fingers. - Just not now! Don't you understand?!

I don't understand, right, - I confirmed gloomily. - Why?

Because now you are the idol of billions of people! You can't just take everything and give it up! You have crazy ratings...

What about your kind and dignity?

Her words made me shudder and finally realize what state I was in.

Here. Think about it, - noticing my reaction, my friend began to persuade. - Think about how your departure will look from the outside. Just think, she passed over the abyss with worms and cowardly fled, unable to withstand the stress. Broke. Or, even worse, she decided at a difficult moment to turn her back on the empire. How many enthusiastic people will abruptly change their minds and start shouting about spitting in the face of the emperor? Can you imagine what a wave of hatred for your family will rise? To you, Ariana?

I collapsed wearily on the sofa and for the first time in this hour I thought: “What am I doing?”

Everything turned out that nothing good for his reputation.

I understand how stressful it was for you, - sitting next to me, meanwhile softly continued Philania. - Believe me, I really understand like no one else. I, too, once narrowly escaped death. But the worst is over. You survived. The palace is safe, and we won't be sent anywhere else. Even if you really don't want to qualify to the end, just wait a bit and that's it.

The words of a friend were reasonable, I could not help but admit it. Yes, for someone else, perhaps public censure did not matter much. But for me, for the née de Arden, dignity was more important than anything else. Even more important than life.

It was thanks to my self-esteem that I managed to overcome my emotions on the Sheltrassky Bridge and cross it with my head held high. Show the true royal blood of your kind. Now what? Destroy everything on your own?

What glory about me would go after this?

I had no right to denigrate my name. But if not for Philania, she would definitely have done stupid things!

I looked gratefully at my friend.

You know, you're right. Thank you.

Not at all, - she smiled and, wanting to support, squeezed my hand.

Suddenly, the call of the cohedron rang out. Without doubting the identity of the caller for a second, I apologized to Philania and headed to the office.

The very first glance at the communication artifact confirmed the correctness of the assumption. Above the graphite plate shone the coat of arms of the de Arden family, and as soon as I touched it, I saw the face of the Most Serene Duchess.

Grandmother answered the polite, etiquette greeting with only a short nod. She looked at me silently, dispassionately as usual, as if judging me. Only the sharper than usual features of her face and pointed cheekbones made it possible to understand that, in fact, the Most Serene Duchess is far from calm.

My grandmother's gaze flickered almost perceptibly over my eyes, which were probably still swollen from tears. The thin line of her lips quivered a little, tightening tighter. This made me instinctively straighten up and lift my chin in an effort to show that there was no more weakness. Yes, I could not restrain myself, but now emotions are under control.

Approval flickered in the eyes of the Most Serene Duchess.

I'm proud of you, my girl, - she finally said. - I'm proud of you.

The cohedron went out.

I barely held back a sigh of relief. Still, my grandmother is the only one whose opinion was really important to me.

“What if you were packing your things now?”

The idea that the Most Serene Duchess could see me in such a pitiful state made me uncomfortable. I could hardly restrain myself from shrugging my shoulders: I so wanted to discard the unpleasant image that arose before my mind's eye. And, trying not to think about it anymore, she hurried into the living room, where she immediately caught Philania's admiring glance.

She has incredible endurance, ”said her friend respectfully. Now I understand who raised you like that. And I understand why you were able to pass the canyon. Even my father's voice trembled half an hour ago, for all the firmness of his character. But I was in the forefront, when nothing had happened yet. And you…

Don't remind me, I winced.

Any use of the material in this book, in whole or in part, without the permission of the copyright holder is prohibited.

© N. Zhiltsova, 2017

© AST Publishing House LLC, 2017

Prologue

Emperor and Empress. Bound by blood, two halves of a single whole. Those who, with the power of their magic, are able to hold the power of the Interworld Gates.

At the sight of the royal couple, the crowd burst into applause.

Joyful cries, bouquets of flowers and a sea of confetti flying over the avenue, enveloping everyone with a sense of celebration.

Surrounded by a slightly shimmering protective barrier, they seemed to be completely unaffected. Even the magnificent hairstyle of the Empress did not go astray.

The emperor majestically raised his hand and spoke in a voice enhanced by magic:

Yes, an old enemy tried to strike at the heart of the empire. Yes, I chose the most important moment for this and probably prepared for it for a long time. But still failed!

The emperor in a charred doublet and with skin blackened from burns was kneeling next to his already dead wife. His chest was heaving with difficulty, and his strength was rapidly fading away.

- Father! - next to the platform in an instant were two subtly similar to the ruler of young men.

“Ryan,” the Emperor hissed, “no one must know about our death. Keep illusions constantly. Otherwise, the Nashvartsy will attack, and one cannot cope with the Gates alone. The festivities must go on.

“Very well, father.” One of the men, whose sharpened features seemed to be frozen, gave a curt nod.

“And appoint a new selection,” the emperor looked at his heir, Damian. - Say that you timed your wedding for the celebrations, justify such an early date as you like. I know you have a chosen one, so everything will be fine. You are strong. Much stronger than me. You must…

He stopped and grabbed his throat. A grunt escaped from the ruler's chest, and then the lifeless body collapsed onto the platform.

The brothers stood silently next to the bodies of their parents for some time. Not far away, white as chalk, her closest lady-in-waiting, the dark-haired beauty Isabella, stared at the Empress. The young countess was brought up in the palace from childhood, after her parents died during one of the assassination attempts on the emperor.

Isabella heard the instructions of the departed ruler. So when Damian looked in her direction, she nodded briefly in agreement.

“Contact the master of ceremonies,” the future emperor commanded curtly. “Let him prepare an official announcement and start sending out invitations.

Chapter 1

- Lady Ariana! Her Ladyship is urgently calling for you!

The elderly servant appeared on the threshold of my living room, looking worried and slightly out of breath.

"Did something happen to us, Tamias?" I put down my cup of hot tea and looked at him with mild surprise.

Of course, since my parents died, my grandmother taught me management and forced me to attend all business negotiations. However, the morning usually passed quietly.

- Even so?

My surprise increased exponentially. Quickly getting up from the table, I almost ran towards the exit from the living room.

On the way to my grandmother's office, I mentally prepared for everything at once. However, from afar, hearing the shrill voice of her aunt behind the half-open door, she decided not to go in right away. Yes, just in case. It was necessary at least in general terms to understand the cause of the conflict in advance. Therefore, throwing on a mental magic canopy, she quietly came closer and listened.

We had a cool relationship with my aunt. After the death of her mother, her older sister, Lady Natara began to scrutinize my behavior, lecturing me for the slightest misconduct. Officially, this severity was justified by increased demands on the heiress of the de Arden family. In fact, the usual annoyance was hidden behind petty nit-picking.

At birth, Lady Natara, unlike my mother and myself, did not manifest the magic of the lineage. Therefore, she could not claim either the title or the inheritance. However, this did not stop her from demanding one thing or another from her grandmother for "the only living daughter." And often in high tones.

And now she screamed angrily:

“Do you even realize that this is an imperial challenge!?” Finally after so many years!

We don't need emperors! Grandma yelled no less loudly. – If not for the Great Union, we would have been a royal family ourselves!

Imperial challenge? Something early...

I frowned. Of course, I knew about the heir to the ruling dynasty, Damian. But he's only twenty-four years old! Why all of a sudden such a rush?

- Emperors are not needed! And connections are needed! - meanwhile, exhorted the aunt. Stop living in the past! Unification is not cancelled!

- They will take Ana - who will continue the family? Grandma resisted.

- Who will take her? Several thousand people will gather at the arch, of which only a few will be selected! A few hours of waiting and that's it. Let's show our loyalty, they will remove the three-hundred-year-old yoke of an unfriendly kind from us and finally allow us to appear at court.

- I didn’t give it to you, but I want it! Lady Natara sobbed hysterically. We need connections! I need a husband, after all! And status, and position in society! Since you couldn't give me all this!

There was no point in continuing to eavesdrop. Dispelling the shield, I knocked politely. Then she crossed the threshold and said evenly:

- Good morning.

Despite the early morning, the grandmother standing next to Lady Natara looked tired. Her wrinkled face was unusually haggard, and her features sharpened. The aunt, standing nearby and defiantly putting a handkerchief to her eyes, emphasized her thinness with her magnificent forms.

– If would kind, Ariana. This morning, a messenger from His Imperial Majesty flew to us and told us the most disgusting news. - Grandmother, pursing her lips in displeasure, handed me an envelope made of thick paper with the coat of arms of the ruling dynasty.

When I opened it, I found inside a card with gold embossed text:

Most Serene Duchess of the House de Arden!

We hereby inform you of the commencement of the bride selection ceremony for His Imperial Highness Damian of India.

No later than the sixteenth kriya, suitable maidens of your kind should arrive at the main temple of the goddess of fertility in the Ancrax Valley. The list of requirements for candidates is attached..

Below were these very requirements: age from nineteen to twenty-two and no ties with men.

Our future emperor is not very fastidious.

However, he can't be picky. The future emperor had no right to refuse this ceremony or choose a bride to his liking. After all, the status of the empress was far from formal.

The chosen one should not only be innocent and pretty, but also fit in many parameters. Become the conduit of the emperor's power, thanks to which control over the Interworld Gate is maintained.

These gates were created three hundred years ago by the ruling family of the kingdom of Indaria. Even at that time, the Indians were considered quite strong magicians. And after the opening of the transition between the worlds, they instantly became the most influential monarchs in the world.

The development of trade relations with the races of the five worlds has opened up truly great opportunities. New knowledge, materials, objects… over these three hundred years, our world has literally changed.

And everything would be fine if it were not for the Nashvartsy. These half-lizard warriors from the sixth, arid, dusty world, constantly teetered with us on the brink of war. And the ability to close the Gate at any time, if an invasion of the invaders suddenly began, was provided only thanks to the connection between the emperor and the empress.

The emperor must trust the chosen one completely, enough to bind himself to her by ties of blood. After all, it is she who, in case the emperor needs to use the magic of the Interworld Gates, will keep his mind from madness.

In historical chronicles, the first attempts of the Indarian rulers to curb this magic were colorfully and eeriely described. Their uncontrollable anger, terrifying visions that do not allow one to distinguish between reality and unreality, mind traps...

All this knocked down concentration, leading to breakthroughs of uncontrollable energy and huge destruction. And only the blessing of the Goddess of Fertility on the blood connection made it possible to contain the power of the magicians and subdue the Interworld Gates.

But only to men of the Indarian family.

It is for this reason that the rest of the rulers had to swear allegiance to them and lose their independence, becoming part of the Indarian Empire.

The Indians themselves needed to keep their own blood in their descendants practically unchanged, otherwise the Gates ceased to obey. Therefore, the primary test in the selection of candidates for empress was the passage through the arch of the goddess of Fertility.

This ancient artifact was activated by the crown prince personally with his own blood. And the blessing of the goddess descended only on those girls who were guaranteed to give birth to his son, who by blood and magic was not inferior to the Indian ancestors.

Such women, not surprisingly, were very few. And here the aunt did not lie: there were practically no chances to pass the test of the arch. Especially for me. Indeed, since ancient times, de Arden also cherished the purity of blood and tribal magic, but along the female line. Our magic practically excluded the birth of men. And those who occasionally still came into the world, had no rights to inheritance and titles.

“I think we should refuse, as before,” Grandmother broke the silence. “But the decision is yours, Ariana. I have no right to order you.

Not right, right. The will of every heiress de Arden is never subjected to pressure. Yes, and it's impossible. The magic of the family reliably protects the mind from any outside influence. And my decision, whatever it may be, will not be challenged.

It remains only to accept it.

Agree or not?

After the Great Unification, to which our clan was one of the last, the imperial challenge came three times. And all three times our family did not participate in the selection of brides.

The great-grandmother considered the test unworthy because of her pride. Like, without her there are enough contenders. And she is not going to give birth to any sons - this is a shame for the de Arden family. This is what deserved a ban on visiting the capital and universal censure: after all, the blessing of the goddess condescends too rarely. Refusing to pass the test for its presence is like wishing the death of your own empire.

Grandma was lucky to some extent. At the time of the selection, she was already deeply married, and therefore did not fit the criteria. But my mother thirty years ago also refused the selection.

But times are changing, and the past cannot be returned. It just so happened that the de Arden family will never gain full independence again. And to live so many more years in isolation due to simple stubbornness ...

“I will accept the invitation,” I said quietly but confidently.

Grandmother's heavy sigh and aunt's exhalation of relief sounded at the same time.

“Especially you, auntie,” I mentally chuckled. Then she politely smiled with the tips of her lips and, having said goodbye, hurried back to her chambers.

The sixteenth kriya is already tomorrow. It is necessary for today to fully gather and prepare in order to have time to leave tomorrow morning. From the possessions of the de Arden family to the Ancrax valley, even taking into account the spatial portal, the path is not short. And being late for the ceremony is out of the question in my case.

For the next few hours, the maids were packing clothes and jewelry. Why collect such an impressive baggage, I personally had no idea. Yeah, I didn't mean to at first. However, literally a quarter of an hour later, the aunt came running decisively:

“You have to be ready for anything, Ariana!”

After that, she took charge of the collections into her own hands.

To resist Lady Natara's enthusiasm was more expensive. The aunt, it seems, was already preparing in her thoughts for some kind of imperial reception or ball. So I just mentally shrugged and waved my hand. After all, what's the difference?

And she went to dinner.

Then she sorted out the documents left by her grandmother from the evening and put things in order, as it should be before a short departure, albeit a short one. And when the fiery flashes of the setting sun played on the snowy caps of the Ardenian mountains, visible from the window of my office, the servant reported that the things were completely collected.

Dinner passed in tense silence. Grandmother cast displeased glances at me, but she no longer tried to challenge the decision. But the aunt, on the contrary, literally beamed and refrained from commenting, apparently only because of the desire not to frighten away the opportunity that had fallen.

I, although I did not doubt the correctness of my choice, was a little nervous. It's not every day that you have to make such important decisions.

I went to bed with thoughts that the situation needed to be resolved as quickly as possible. As a result, she got up at dawn, wishing to be in the Ancrax Valley as soon as possible. Of course, the selection ceremony at the Arch of Fertility was all day, and I was not in danger of being late, but I was not afraid to be late. I just wanted to be on the front lines.

As the servants hurriedly loaded bags of my belongings onto the private air carriage, I took one last look in the large floor mirror. The travel dress sat perfectly, without a single wrinkle. Snow-white, like all women of our kind, hair is carefully styled.

“Well… it’s time. Grandmother sighed and, betraying tension, hugged me. - I look forward to your early return.

“By the evening, I hope, I will be at home,” I answered and smiled warmly.

“Remember Ariana, you represent our entire family!” - Aunt said pathetically.

I took a deep breath and headed towards the exit.

The crew, ready to take off, hovered next to the porch, a few centimeters above the ground. As I approached, the servant opened the back door and I settled comfortably in the back seat. Irtis, an elderly companion of my status, took a seat opposite. A few tiring hours of flight awaited us to the capital region of the former kingdom of Indaria and the temple valley. The crew smoothly soared into the air and rushed in a given direction.

For the duration of the flight, my aunt had in store for me an entertaining novel, but the plot was not assimilated. Thoughts about the upcoming event overcame my head.

The choice of the future empress was a whole show, and I had to participate in it. I can’t say that I was delighted about this, but there were no negative emotions either. Ultimately, it is not difficult for me to visit the temple, smile in front of the audience and calmly return home. But Lady Natara will finally get what she wants and go to the capital, leaving me alone.

In addition, a turning point has now come in relations with the ruling dynasty. We have been reclusive enough. It is necessary to remove the restrictions imposed on our lands and expand trade and business ties. We have, after all, rather large mines, but because of the ban imposed by the Indians, we sell only a quarter of what is possible in a year. And by tonight the situation will change dramatically.

I couldn't help smiling. No matter how you look at it, the benefits of this trip are enormous.

Most of the flight passed behind reflections and contemplation of the landscape and clouds passing by the window. And after a couple of hours, a blazing stationary portal to the capital region appeared in the sky.

We slipped between several trading caravans and rushed into the fiery chasm. A moment of transition, and the green foothills below us gave way to the endless steppe.

The morning in this part of the empire was just coming into its own, which made me doubly happy - it means that we will indeed be one of the first to arrive. However, half an hour later, when the Ancrax Valley with the temple complex appeared on the horizon, it became clear that I was mistaken.

Among the steppe, the valley looked like an emerald spot with silky grass and many fruit trees. Most of it was occupied by the temple complex of the Goddess of Fertility - an impressive building and reminiscent of a fortress. At its heart was the main building, the spire of which literally pierced the sky. Behind him huddled smaller chapels and residential buildings for servants and priests.

In front of the entrance to the complex stretched a huge square, capable of accommodating thousands of people for mass worship. And here on it I saw a lot of people gathering there. And not only the press, but also the candidates! It seems that many of them arrived at night and now, with the first rays of the sun, as soon as the gates of the temple opened, they tried to get inside.

Due to the accumulation of people and carriages, we had to descend a little further away, and I made my way to the gate on foot. Moreover, even in a small crowd of candidates, I had to stand at the gate.

“And it's only early morning,” the thought flashed. “It’s scary to imagine what will happen here for dinner.”

“Ariana Anabella Aveline de Arden,” I introduced myself to the guards when the turn came, and extended my invitation.

One of the soldiers in a white dress uniform bowed briefly and motioned for them to proceed to the courtyard of the temple. A few steps, and I found myself among the girlish crowd full of outfits and jewelry. Some candidates formed groups, some tried to be proud and independent. Translator crystals were flying among this crowd.

“And the show is just beginning,” I thought, smiling into one of the flying visor balls, and prepared to wait for further instructions from the organizers of this gathering.

“Yes, this time everything is a little more boring,” one of the girls standing in front drawled.

“You say that, Lantina, as if you were present at the previous one,” her friend purred.

"I've looked at the full tape," Lantina said condescendingly. - And then the brides were collected for two weeks, and not at the last moment, and they arranged interviews with applicants from famous families. And we are standing here like herrings in a barrel. Of course, I'm not complaining, but I would like to pass under the arch in a more solemn form. Imagine, I even had to change clothes in the carriage!

“His Highness Damian wanted to make it by all means before the end of the festivities. Besides, have you seen how many guards? I believe that his imperial majesty is worried about our safety, so the celebration was cut to the necessary minimum, - the third girl sighed.

“Yes, yes,” Lantina agreed immediately. Do you remember what happened recently? This is an attempt...

“I heard that the archmage himself came to ensure the safety of the brides!” One of the girls responded nonchalantly.

“Then you don’t have to worry about us, his lordship will not allow a single saboteur to get here.

“Your truth, Lady Prana.

The girls continued their secular conversation, but I had no desire to listen to gossip about the young ladies present nearby. I walked away, and soon solemn music swept over the square, and a magic screen flashed against the background of the main temple. On it appeared the image of a spacious richly decorated hall, against the far wall of which stood an arch entwined with flowers.

The vault of the building was crowned with a sculpture of the goddess of fertility. The white marble girl gracefully sat on top and smiled. Her hands extended patronizingly over the archway, seemingly blessing everyone who passed under it.

“Welcome to the bride selection ceremony!” - the announcer began the welcoming speech. “Today, for the first time in thirty-eight years, the magic of the Goddess of Fertility will awaken again to bestow the highest honor on only a select few girls. To those who are worthy of becoming the bride of our future emperor - His Highness Prince Damian of India. Those on whom the future and prosperity of our entire empire will depend.

The announcer fell silent and solemn music was heard again. At the same time, the image on the screen changed, showing the ceremonial hall again. Its distant doors swung open, and the prince appeared on the threshold, accompanied by a guard of honor.

Despite the fact that I often saw the images of Damian of India, I nevertheless began to examine it again. A tall, slender, dark-haired man with regular features was a real eye-catcher. The ceremonial blue-black uniform with the coat of arms of Indaria embroidered on the right side of the chest, the crown crowning the head, the confident gait - everything in it spoke of imperial blood. However, in the look of the blue eyes of the prince, there was still no coldness and hardness, which, I remember, his father possessed. And in the face of Damian, the coldness inherent in the emperor was not yet reflected.

"Handsome man. And surprisingly pleasant. Not repulsive,” I admitted.

She confessed and immediately laid siege to herself. Whoever he is, Damian of Indaria is not for me. And by the evening I will try to forget about this place.

The prince meanwhile approached the archway. As it turned out, at its right side there was a small bowl filled with water. His highness extended his hand over her and, taking the ceremonial dagger from the approaching priest, slashed his own palm.

Crimson drops, one after another, began to drip into the water, turning it into a bright scarlet color. A moment, another, and a bright golden wave ran through the arch, announcing that the ancient artifact was ready for the selection of possible brides. Favorably allowing the selection to begin, Prince Damian left the hall.

At that moment, the doors of the temple on our side opened, and the selection ceremony began.

Pretenders instantly perked up, lining up in a kind of queue. With all the desire of the girls to try to keep themselves within the bounds of decency and not crowd, it was clear that everyone wants to become the first and, preferably, the only one.

I got in line too. Not in the front rows, but still, which is nice, not too far from the entrance. And while waiting, she again drew attention to the screen broadcasting what was happening.

Applicants entering the temple were stopped about ten paces from the arch, and one by one they were allowed to approach the artifact. The first was a pleasant brunette in a puffy cream dress. She confidently stepped under the arch, and the arch flared, showering the girl frozen under it with sparks.

- Incredible! The first contender is gifted with divine grace! - exclaimed the announcer. - The beautiful Isabella Rosalind von Dinar, twenty-two years old, becomes the first bride!

The visors instantly focused on the dark-haired girl. A slight smile played on her lips, and her brown eyes radiated an almost palpable warmth.

“And you know, my dear viewers, I am not at all surprised by the choice of the goddess,” meanwhile the announcer continued. “The young countess's parents died protecting our Emperor Garrian. In gratitude, Her Imperial Majesty Anna took care of the orphan. Courteous and friendly Isabella has always been an adornment of the empress's retinue, and of the entire court. We are truly happy for her!

While the merits of the maid of honor of the Empress were being painted, she was surrounded by guards with all honors and escorted to the far exit from the hall. All this time, Isabella was accompanied by visors, showing from all possible angles. But as soon as the girl disappeared behind the doors, the broadcast returned to what was happening in the main temple.

One by one, the girls passed through the archway, but it remained calm time after time. The announcer periodically reminded that only a few receive blessings, and brightened up the expectation of the audience with stories about past selections and some current contenders.

Gradually my turn approached. By the time I was a few steps from the arch, only six girls had received the blessing. And this is from several hundred contenders!

Those to whom the arch did not respond, for the most part, did not want to leave. On the contrary, many even rolled up scandals, trying to get another attempt to pass the test. Girls angrily poured titles, covered themselves with influential parents, sobbed ...

However, all of them were persistently escorted to the exit under the joyful comments of the announcer about the enthusiasm with which the applicants wanted to be among the units.

For me, after two hours of standing in line, it became frankly not giving a damn about everything that was happening. I just wanted to go through the necessary ritual and go home. And when the path in front of me finally became free, I could hardly restrain myself from running through the ceremonial ten meters to the arch.

I had to remind myself that I am not some simpleton, but the heiress of an ancient royal family and should behave accordingly. Therefore, she approached the artifact with an even, confident gait and, smiling at the camera, stepped decorously under the arch.

The golden flash was so unexpected that I didn’t even immediately realize what it was. I just looked up incomprehensibly, from where bright sparks rained down on my head. And only when the triumphant roar of fanfare was heard, a terrible realization came - a sign of the goddess!

But this shouldn't have happened! Shouldn't! I had to go home! AND…

“Come in here, lady,” the master of ceremonies, who jumped up to the shocked me, gestured politely to the doors behind which the previous chosen ones disappeared. And then, seeing that I was still not moving, he gently but firmly pushed me in the back.

And no matter how frankly I didn’t want to go in the indicated direction, I had to nod, pull myself together and, surrounded by visors scurrying around, go forward. Into the unknown.

Confused, confused consciousness out of the corner of his ear caught the voice of the announcer. She accompanied my procession with a story about the de Arden family and how, until now, we have ignored the selection.

– It is truly incredible that the goddess gave them a chance! - the last thing I heard from the announcer before entering the dark narrow corridor.

Betrothed by blood. Selection (Natalia Zhiltsova)

Betrothed by blood. Selection

Bride - 1

Prologue

Prologue

Chapter 1