One Condition

Eventually, Syllvia found her voice again, the metal of her gauntlets clattering as she clenched her hands into fists by her sides. "You say it is not an arranged marriage," she said, "but in intention it is not too different. Two families bringing their bloodlines together to continue both. It is simply that one of the bloodlines is a non-human one."

Camilla nodded, head tilting to the side as she listened, letting her daughter continue talking.

"If I said no," the armor clad Princess said, "You would be obligated to continue asking my younger sisters in succession until one agreed or you were required to order one of us to... accept the terms."

Camilla nodded again and replied, "But for now, it is purely your decision. Speak your heart, daughter."

Syllvia went silent for a few moments once more, head bowing in thought before she whispered, "If I say yes... may I add a condition?"

The Queen started in surprise, eyes widening as she blurted out, "What is it?!"

"Only if he defeats me in a duel."

Camilla's jaw dropped open as she squeaked, "What?"

Syllvia looked up again, her sharp eyes narrowed intensely. "You know my true desire, Mother," she said, "but as you see, my armor remains unadorned."

"We have been blessed with a rare time of peace," Camilla agreed, "So there has been no need for a nobleman to lead our troops into battle."

"But I still wish to prove myself as my father's daughter," Syllvia all but snarled, "and if I can defeat a dragon in battle, even if it is not to the ****, then I shall have done so."

There was a pregnant pause before Syllvia added, "And if he defeats me... well... he'll have certainly earned the right to claim my womb and plant strong children within it."

Camilla sighed, looking at her eldest daughter with worried pity. "Very well," she said, "I believe they will be agreeable to such terms if necessary but you must promise me to greet the Prince peacefully at first when he arrives and speak with him for a while. Perhaps you may decide you both like each other and such a challenge will be unnecessary."

"Mother," Syllvia replied, her voice flat, "I most sincerely doubt that but... I shall try."