The Silver Princess

Runaway

The first rays of dawn illuminated the dark sky, painting the horizon with a soft orange hue that gradually blended into a serene blue, signaling the arrival of twilight. Only a handful of stars defiantly shimmered on the celestial canvas, as if unwilling to yield their radiance to the approaching sun. The stars and the sky resembled a poetic masterpiece, their sparkling lights akin to words etched across a vast, dark-blue parchment.

Yet the message they conveyed was ethereal, beyond the grasp of understanding for any sentient being. It was as if the cosmos whispered secrets that eluded comprehension. And then, as it had done for eternity, the sun asserted its dominance over the world's light.

In the Capital of Sylphrena, a new day had begun. Farmers arose early to tend to their crops and livestock, the rhythmic clinks of blacksmiths' forges resounded in a few corners as they prepared to shape metal, and the alluring aroma of freshly baked pastries wafted through the alleys. Household servants, maids, and personal attendants readied themselves for their masters' awakening, preparing breakfast, organizing schedules, and selecting appropriate attire.

In the temples, priests of the sole religion offered prayers to the one God, the deity of life. They performed a special ritual at dawn and dusk, symbolizing the cycle of existence from beginning to end.

The kingdom was already abuzz with activity, even though most of its inhabitants still slumbered. At this hour, a few individuals had finished their jobs and were headed to their homes, the night watch of guards concluded their shifts, and their colleagues took over to ensure the kingdom's safety, unyielding guardians in the quietude of dawn.

This morning was like any other one in the Kingdom of Sylphrena's everyday routine except for a certain uniqueness. A cloaked figure moved swiftly through the grand corridors of a castle nestled in the northern reaches of the capital city.

Princess Rina had exchanged her elegant ballgown for a dark robe, its length somewhat cumbersome as it trailed along the castle's marble floors. Her once voluminous silver hair was now concealed in a tight bun, tucked away beneath the hooded garment. Strands of silver peeked out like moonlight breaking through thick clouds.

Rina had made up her mind; it was too dangerous to remain within the castle's walls. Duke Damocles knew of her impending ascension to the throne, and Prince Remian harbored a grudge. While she didn't have a clue about their exact intentions, she was certain staying to find out was not an option. After her birthday celebration ended a mere few hours ago, she had not been able to find sleep, closing her eyes for more than a few seconds had become a challenge.

She had sought her father after her party, who had left for discussions following the first dance. When the King's attendants informed her of his departure to another city for political matters she cared little about, Rina felt adrift.

Why was he always so busy? Just for once stay at the same place for more than a few minutes.

King Urtemis was her fortress, her sanctuary within these walls. More like a wandering castle. In his presence, no one dared to even breathe too loudly around her. However, with him absent, anything became possible, and she found herself without a trustworthy soul.

And so, she decided to disappear, at least for the duration of her father's absence.

One day would be enough, then she would tell him everything, and he would take care of the matter. A single day should suffice, after which she would tell him everything, and he would handle the situation.

That's a good plan... I guess.

Taking advantage of the changing of the guards, their momentary lapse in attention, and an excuse she provided to her maids, Rina left the palace. She offered silent apologies and prayers for the guards and maids who would likely face repercussions later, though no blame could be placed upon them.