The Second Prince's knights were waiting for me outside the door as I left my father's study. They bound my wrists in chains that were cumbersome but not uncomfortable, and led me out of the house.

In front of my father's grand entry staircase was a large cerulean and gold carriage drawn by four black horses. One of the knights opened the carriage door for me and told me to get in, so I climbed up the small stairs and through the open door. Within, there were two plush benches, both covered in rich white velvet. The Second Prince was already seated on one of them, so I sat on the one opposite him. The carriage had rounded windows in all directions, that let in the sunlight and allowed one to enjoy the scenery around them. The walls were upholstered in a silky, midnight blue fabric, and my feet rested on a fluffy white floor that reminded me of a wolf's pelt. It was an elegant carriage, befitting a man of his stature. It made me feel claustrophobic. 

After taking in my surroundings, I dared to look at the Second Prince directly. I hadn't noticed it when we were inside, but the hair that I'd thought was mere blonde was shining silvery white in the sunlight. His face was uninteresting and utterly average, but his hair was undeniably beautiful. His eyes, a drab brown, remained fixed on me as I took in the splendor of the carriage. He studied me for a moment, as if trying to gauge my reaction. Unlike my father, who exuded hostility and anger, the Second Prince looked at me with a combination with apathy and disinterest. "Julien, was it?" he asked in a bored tone. I nodded and he continued, "Very well then. The journey to Luz Dorada will take a number of days, so I suggest you make yourself comfortable. I assume your father has explained what is required of you?"

I nodded again, fighting to keep my face neutral. I wasn't sure what he would do if I showed him the fear and resentment I was feeling. This man, despite his cordial tone and bland smile, was still an ally of my father. He was also the second in line to the Golden Throne and not someone to be trifled with. "The beast you are to marry is a cat general, a tiger of some sort. Its name is Rastari. So far, it seems to be unusually well controlled for a beast, but your sister Emma is simply too fragile to handle a life in the Beastlands," he informed me, "However, since a Royal decree cannot be ignored, your father was forced to make a very hard choice. We are both grateful to you for volunteering so graciously. Your devotion to your family is admirable and I am certain your father is mourning you as we speak." If I hadn't known better, he would have had me convinced that my father had suffered a terrible loss by giving me up. Bitterness welled up inside me as I heard the farce they'd created. My father had taken everything from me and now he had thrown me away. He cherished his daughter and gave her everything she desired, but I was utterly worthless. A disappointment. Weak. Pathetic.  

Unaware of my thoughts, the Second Prince continued, "I hope you understand that the hope of our nation now rests on your shoulders, Julien de Ramport. You must present yourself to the beast in good faith; a brave young man taking the place of his dear sister. Her rejection, accompanied by the insult of offering it a disabled man instead, should be more than enough to bring out its true nature. If not, we can simply execute you ourselves and blame it for your death. But rest assured, either way, we will rekindle the war to avenge you. We appreciate your noble sacrifice, Julien de Ramport. Please know that you have my gratitude. If you could speak, I'm certain you would also thank me for this opportunity to serve your nation." His words sent a shiver down my spine. This man was far more dangerous than he seemed. I should thank him for the opportunity? Even if I had a voice, that would have left me speechless. The carriage fell silent after that, except for the sound of the horses pulling us down the road.