-The Land of ETERNALS-

-Part 21-

Abchanchu's POV

I sat upon my magnificent throne, radiating authority and power. The impending rise of Alaric troubled me greatly, as his immaturity and lack of responsibility had been bothering me for quite some time.

Alaric's careless approach to his duties angered me, for merely looking like royalty was not enough. He needed to display the qualities befitting a truly exceptional leader.

A formidable figure, dressed in impressive armor, approached me with deference. "Your Majesty," he said, bowing deeply, "a respected vampire named Asher requests an audience with you."

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Asher's arrival. "Asher, you say? Very well, let him come," I commanded.

Shortly after, Asher, a vampire surrounded by an air of hidden intentions, entered the grand chamber. His movements were deliberate and precise, and his eyes held a hint of danger. We locked eyes, both aware of the complex power dynamics at play.

"Asher," I said with calculated arrogance, "what brings you here to grace me with your presence?"

Asher bowed deeply, his tone filled with calculated respect. "Your Majesty, I dare to suggest that perhaps Alaric is not the rightful heir to the throne. He lacks the qualities and temperament befitting a king."

A flicker of irritation crossed my face, but I quickly composed myself. Asher's audacity to question our bloodline, the very essence of our lineage, was almost too insolent to tolerate. Regardless of our strained relationship, Alaric was my son, and it had been predetermined that he would inherit the throne.

"You assume much, Asher," I replied, my voice carrying a regal tone. "Alaric may have his flaws, but he possesses royal blood. It is his birthright to inherit the throne, as decreed by our ancestors."

Asher's gaze hardened, his expression filled with cold determination. "Your Majesty, I urge you to consider his recent escapades. Alaric is becoming increasingly involved with vampires from outside our realm, showing an unhealthy interest in my team for the zenith festival."

A surge of anger coursed through me, but I maintained my composure. My son, preoccupied with trivial matters when he should be focused on his responsibilities? It was a frustrating turn of events that shattered the illusion of unity. Through gritted teeth, I forced out my words. "And who are these two new girls that Alaric is so engrossed with?"

Asher's eyes sparkled with a mix of triumph and subtle malice. "Their names are Alora and Fiorella, Your Majesty."

The name Alora... a sense of familiarity flickered in my mind, just out of reach. A tinge of unease mixed with curiosity crept in, but I pushed it aside, embracing a false sense of indifference. "So be it. Let Alaric immerse himself in these trivial entanglements. It matters not. His destiny as the future ruler shall remain unchanged."

"Now that our conversation is concluded, I shall proceed to the portal for a momentous occasion. But mark my words, the throne shall always belong to Alaric by birthright, regardless of your provocative words and distractions." I stated calmly.

As he turned to leave, the palpable irritation emanating from him served as a lingering annoyance.

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-now that i know you exist, how do i not love you?-

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