Beyond The Sands of Time

Chapter 26: In the Shadow of Slumber and War

Ivan's Pov:

As we journeyed back, Raven's slumber persisted, unyielding to my anxious pleas for her to awaken. Three long, agonizing months had passed since she last opened her eyes. Her physical health remained stable, but the mystery behind her unbroken sleep tormented my every waking moment.

Flashback

"Ivan, Ivan!!!" I heard Kayden running towards me with Lady Eliza in the same state as Raven.

The moment he took in that Raven is in the same state as Lady Eliza, tears escaped his eyes, and he mumbled something.

"Kayden, gather yourself and let's keep a check on their health."

After getting the royal physician to check both of them, we found that Lady Eliza was expecting her first child. This news broke my heart, as this was not how we had imagined to receive such joyous tidings. I embraced Kayden tightly as he was completely shattered.

"Ivan, you have to gather yourself," I told myself silently, "Raven wouldn't like to see us like this." It was a reminder that despite the despair and uncertainty surrounding her condition, I had to remain strong not only for myself but also for Raven, who I knew would want us to face this challenge with courage.

"Ivan, they are gone," Kayden mumbled.

I looked at him in shock, my heart sinking further. "You knew?" I asked, my voice filled with a mix of confusion and sadness.

He nodded solemnly. "I apologize for hiding this from you," he said, his voice heavy with regret. He proceeded to tell me the story of how Raven and Lady Eliza had traveled to our world, driven by grief and loss from their own world. It was a tale filled with heartache and longing, and as he spoke, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of sympathy for both Raven and Lady Eliza.

"We must find a way to bring them back," I said determinedly, my mind already racing with ideas of how to bridge the gap between our worlds and reunite them with their loved ones.

"We can't do anything, Ivan. It's them who can do it," Kayden reiterated, his tone filled with resignation.

I clenched my fists, the frustration building inside me. "You can't expect me to sit quietly and do nothing, Kayden," I replied, my voice trembling with emotion. "I can't lose her again."

"I understand," Kayden said softly, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder, "but we can't do anything except to wait for them." His words were a bitter reminder of our powerlessness in this situation, and all we could do was hope for Raven and Lady Eliza to find their way back to us.

Flashback over

Weston's urgent news shook me from my thoughts, and my heart sank at the mention of war. The strained relations with the Kingdom of Eldoria had been escalating, and the brutal killing of our kingdom's merchants was an ominous sign.

"Thank you for informing me, Weston," I replied, my mind racing to assess the situation. "Gather the council immediately. We need to discuss our options and prepare for the defense of our kingdom." The safety of our people and the future of our realm weighed heavily on my shoulders, and I knew that difficult decisions lay ahead.

As I made my way back to my chamber to prepare for the impending war, I approached Raven's bedside and placed a tender kiss on her forehead before mustering the courage to press my lips to hers. "Wait for me, love," I whispered softly. With one last lingering look, I left the chamber, issuing orders to ensure Raven's care in my absence.

As I made my way toward my horse, I was surprised to see Kayden, fully prepared to join me in the battle.

"Kayden, you're needed here," I said firmly, trying to convey the importance of his role in looking after our people and the palace.

"I can't leave you—" he began to protest, but I interrupted him.

"It's for the best. Raven and Lady Eliza need you by their side in times like these," I explained. He sighed and nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.

"I trust you to return safely, or may the Lord save you from my sister's wrath," he remarked with a hint of a smile.

"I will do my utmost to make it back to her," I replied, taking out the letter I had prepared and handing it to Kayden. "Give this to her once she awakens," I instructed, hoping it would offer her solace during my absence.

Author's Note:

In this chapter, we delve into the emotional turmoil of Ivan as he grapples with the unexplained slumber of his beloved Raven and the impending war that threatens their kingdom. Secrets are revealed, and difficult decisions are made as Ivan and Kayden navigate the challenges that lie ahead. As the story unfolds, the characters' bonds will be tested, and their courage will shine in moments of both despair and hope. Thank you for your support.

Warm regards,
Ivory