Silken Shackles

I am Delda, daughter of Digoar, and granddaughter of Omid, the son of one of the largest and most noble families. Delda, who spent her life enduring the harshness of her father and the contempt of her grandfather... In contrast, there is Baran; the man whom everyone fears, in whose presence words dare not escape, and whom people avoid even crossing paths with in the city alleys. His features are sharp, a merciless man whose cruelty is universally agreed upon.

Delda slammed the table hard and said, blazing with anger: "What do you mean by a marriage substitute? That scoundrel kidnapped my sister! He must be punished; how can you accept such an agreement?"

The response came decisively: "The matter is settled, and the decision has been made."

Delda collapsed to the floor, putting her head between her hands in disbelief. How could this happen? Lady had her dreams; to escape her father's tyranny first, and then complete her education to become a lawyer. How could her world collapse like this, and how could she be bound to the most ruthless of the families' men?