Different Destinies

Author's Note
In a time when one of history's greatest empires is in an uproar, two young ladies, both of royal blood, must put to the test their 17 years of cunning skills.
Both are princesses, one of the North, one of the South. They're sisters, twin sisters no less, but neither knows the other's identity until they meet in a final clash of conflict to win the Golden Fan.
Through a backdrop of mystical creatures, powerful adversaries, and an evil that threatens to devour the empire unless the twin sisters put aside their differences and join together, this is the lost legacy of Mya and Celeste.

Prologue 16 years ago, the Old Palace Happenings:
The Royal Empress Mishu, the backbone of the empire, was dying. But first, she had to bring her child into the world. Riots had broken out in the Empire and she had summoned her soldiers to put order back. The palace guards were uneasy, but the Empress's trusted friend Myguol remained by her side.
"Myguol, the time has come," gasped Mishu.
"Your highness," Myguol gave Mishu her hand as the Empress struggled.
Scant minutes later a child was born. Myguol wrapped the baby girl tenderly in white silk. As she tried to hand the child to Mishu, Myguol saw that the Empress was still panting. A few seconds later, another child was brought forth.
"My lady, they are twin girls!" whispered Myguol in awe as she passed the first child to Mishu and wrapped the second in black silk.
Mishu held both babies in her arms. She could feel her life slipping away.
"It's a sad thing they are both girls. Had one been a male, the Empire's royal lineage would not have been broken," said Myguol.
"Hush, Myguol, my daughters both have great destinies. You know, my dear friend, that upon my death, this Empire will be split in two, North and South. My daughters will one day unite this corrupted land and with their deeds and the children they leave behind, this Empire will come into greater splendor than ever before."
At that moment, one of the palace girls burst into the Empress's chamber.
"Your Highness, the Voys have penetrated into the palace, you must leave!" the palace girl gasped.
"Run, save yourself," Mishu bid. Without hesitation, the palace girl turned and fled down the hall.
"Quick, my dear Myguol, beneath my jade fountain! There is an oyster shell box. Bring it to me, quick!" Mishu whispered urgently.