DISCLAIMER: The author's imagination and passion are the only sources of inspiration for this novel, which is a work of dedication. Parallels between these pages and the past or present may be apparent to some readers, but they are completely coincidental. You are free to interpret this art anyway you see fit, and it is meant for your enjoyment.
Tonight, the Hylde Manor served as the beating heart of the Empire, having previously served as a classroom, a sanctuary, and a stronghold. The Gala of Intentions was a social and political tidal wave, not just a party. All of the surrounding countries' noble houses, merchant guilds, and diplomatic envoys had come to the valley to see the "Choice of the Century."
The night was a different kind of gauntlet for Reinn. She stood at the top of the big staircase wearing a dark blue gown that shimmered like a starry sky. Standing next to her were the regal and uncompromising Eyrion and Ryianne, as well as Eyldion, who was occupied with thwarting overly ambitious suitors from lower houses who were still hoping to attract Reinn's attention.
"Remember," Ryianne whispered, her hand resting on Reinn's arm. "Tonight, they are not just looking at you. They are looking at the man who will stand by your side. They are looking for a King, a Consort, or a Lord. But you... You must only look for a husband."
Reinn was quickly surrounded as she entered the ballroom. Edryyion's nobility was ravenous for knowledge.
"Lady Hylde, is it true the Imperial Prince has abdicated his claim for you?"
"Is the Northern Duke really planning to move the ducal seat to the valley?"
"Who is the man with the strange spectacles and the talk of 'optimization'?"
Reinn moved through the crowd with the poise she had developed over the course of three seasons. She talked about the Hylde line's strength, the valley's prosperity, and the "Open-Source" peace. However, she couldn't stop looking for the five guys who had made this evening possible.
The five suitors moved forward one by one to guide Reinn across the floor as the music intensified and the Master of Ceremonies introduced the "Dance of Intentions." This was their last public declaration, their method of demonstrating to the world how they would handle her in the eyes of the law and the light.
The first dance was led by Giywon. He moved with a dragon's effortless grandeur. He said, "Look at them, Reinn," as they whirled. "They see an Emperor. But I want them to see a man who is proud to be yours. I have told the Council today: my future is not on the throne, but wherever you plant your feet."
Next was Dyierrean. He danced in a solid, grounded manner. The lords' eyes didn't appeal to him. "The North is watching," he declared in a hoarse growl. "They see a wolf who has found his home. I will not give them a show, Samantha. I will give them the truth: that no one will ever touch what is mine."
Ji-Hoon had a soft gaze, but he moved with an almost scientific precision. He smiled and answered, "I've analyzed the social impact of this choice. The 'Market' wants a Prince. But I've decided I don't care about the market. I've started the foundation for our school. That is my declaration."
The ballroom was transformed into a stage by Killian. His emerald coat shimmering, he spun Reinn quicker than the rest, making her laugh. "They think I'm a scandal, Lioness. Let them. A scandal is just a story they're jealous of. I'm telling them that I'd give up the Seven Seas just to dance in this hall with you every night."
The last partner was Leo. He danced like someone who had learnt from watching old movies, not like a noble. It was straightforward and genuine. "I don't have a kingdom or a fleet to offer them," he murmured, meeting her gaze. "But I told your father tonight that if he ever needed to find me, I'll be exactly two steps behind you, making sure the world doesn't trip you up."
Reinn felt herself sliding away to the peaceful seclusion of the North Tower as the last sounds of the symphony faded and the guests started to withdraw to the grounds for the fireworks. She could still hear the cheers, but her chest was constricted.
She glanced down at her fan's five ribbons. Each stood for an idealized future. In addition to becoming heroes, each man had demonstrated their significance as a possible spouse for the family she so much desired.
If she went with Giywon, she would have chosen a spouse who would redefine an empire for her as well as a legacy of light.
If she went with Dyierrean, she would have chosen the highest level of security and a fireplace that would never go cold.
If she went with Ji-Hoon, she would have chosen a forward-thinking, contemporary future with an intellectual equal who would create a world for their kids.
If she went with Killian, she would have chosen a man who made every ordinary day exciting and a life filled with unending happiness.
If she went with Leo, she would have chosen a man who loved her for who she was before she was a "Lady" and the comforts of home.
"How am I supposed to do this?" she asked the moonlight in a whisper. "How can I say yes to one without breaking the hearts of the four who fought heaven and hell to keep me alive?"
She came to see that although the "Open-Source" world had granted her the ability to make her own decisions, such freedom came with a cost. Reinn experienced the overwhelming burden of writing her own destiny for the first time. Not only was she selecting a spouse, but she was also selecting the aspect of herself that she would value the most throughout her life.