[color=f26522][h2] Kalani Solle [/h2][/color]

Kalani could almost laugh bitterly in the irony of her fate. She had worked so hard to come as close to perfect as she possibly could but failed to realize that her efforts had made her more desirable and more likely to be chosen for the Reaping. She could not benefit from the rewards of her hard work, but instead had it plucked out of her hands while she is forced to be some other man's trophy wife. 

The Drakken soldier that chose her and another Gem for their lord was not gentle when grabbing them. While it did not hurt that much, Kalani glared at him for his use of unnecessary roughness. However, she did not get the reaction she was expecting. The soldier simply smiled as if she had done something amusing, which only made her more angry.

She closed her eyes and tried to calm herself down. The Drakkens had always been stronger than Gems. That was the reason why they had this stupid Reaping every year. Whether or not the Drakkens decide to attack her people depended on her and the other Gem brides. Even if this is a waste of her potential, it was for a greater cause so she will try to be the best Gem bride she could be. Also, angering one of them would immediately be a death sentence and some Drakkens are not kind enough to make it a swift, painless one.

Before she knew it, Kalani was in front of the infamous Krone, the Scream Taker. She felt uncomfortable as he looks over at them. It was as if he was reading their minds, seeing right through them, and determining their fates right at this very moment. She did her best to hold her head up high, but could still feel her body trembling from fear. 

He had asked for their names but the water Gem besides her had given a sarcastic response. Kalani did not know whether to be impressed or worried for the girl. Was she trying to get herself killed on the first day?

 Quickly, Kalani answered in a polite yet unattached tone, [color=f26522]"My name is Kalani Solle. It is... an honor to have been chosen for a Drakken of your status."[/color] She curtsied, hoping he did not notice the slight hesitation in her voice.