Queen Dragoness of Eirvoth

IV: Red and Luke

AURORA

There was a time of peace. It's in an era without the need to wage war against demons. During that time, I believed I lived in tranquility. That was when I was born, and it felt as if I beheld a world of complete beauty - nature's extravagant colors and mana, the gentle touch of wind, the rays of the sun, and the laughter and smiles of the innocent realm dwellers. I cherished these sights, soaring above the sky each day to enjoy the view. It etched a memorable image in my heart that even nagged me when I tried to sleep.

That was my life, or rather, the reason I believed I lived.

If the world hadn't plunged into chaos a couple of decades ago, I often wonder what path I would be on now. Would I be a wanderer, a lone dragoness, an adventurer, or would I have a simple and peaceful life with a companion? So many possibilities, but in the end, they are mere illusions causing needless worry. Sometimes, I find myself pathetic, and it embarrasses me.

These thoughts aren't new to me. I simply push them to the back of my mind until they resurface. I maintain a calm face, a light smirk, and a polite yet confident demeanor with clasped hands and straightened elbows – this is what I've learned about being a proper leader. It's a path I've been forced into, and I am determined to make the best of it, even if I don't fully grasp what living truly means.

Today has been eventful, and the activity continues into the night. Freya and I are discussing the preparations for the Grand Ceremony to find a suitable king. However, to her surprise, I've decided to approach it differently this time.

"Your majesty, do you really want the Servants to also be joining the Grand Ceremony this time?" Freya asked for confirmation regarding a sudden decision I made.

"Is there a reason why they shouldn't?"

"I'm sorry if I'm doubting you. However, I would like you to rethink about this condition. The Servants are composed of a bunch of incredible individuals, but they abandoned their fame and wealth in order to serve you. Having them as a candidate will bring an uproar amongst the rich."

I already knew what she warned me about. In fact, I come up with the idea knowing what the consequences would be. Having the rich and the poor be on equal grounds is something that won't be tolerated by the higher ups. Even though Eirvoth is demon-less, the realm dwellers still have their useless pride that they wanted to protect. This is one of the flaws of the people living here, but then again, I doubt any realm would do any better.

"Freya." My frosty breath leaks from my mouth. I only ever fumed a cold mist whenever I get serious.

"Y-... Yes?" Freya appeared visibly worried.

"If you were in my position and couldn't find a suitable king for years, wouldn't you try to change your approach at least?"

"I-... I can't answer such question. It would bring disrespect to your name if I were to become a queen."

"Then try imagining it."

"That-... If that's the case then, I would admit it would bring frustration to me. Having nobody else to lead a kingdom with will definitely be stressful."

"Wise answer." Although, I never get stressful leading the kingdom alone. It's just, I wanted to have somebody to be with at all times. Someone that I can cherish. That's the true reason why I actively searching for someone to become a king. Of course, I can never tell Freya this.

"Then I shall make a report to announce this matter tonight."

I nod in agreement seeing Freya understands my previous reasoning.

She then quickly briefed me on the entire plan and the tentative arrangements for the Grand Ceremony. There isn't much difference from the previous Grand Ceremony, so I don't think it will be anything worth noting for now. I have my own plan tonight and I wish to end things quickly with Freya.