-The Land of ETERNALS-

-Part 23-

Alaric's POV

As we neared the portal, a knot of unease coiled in my chest. My father's imposing presence made me instinctively stand between him and Alora, fearing that he might recognize her. In my periphery, I noticed his gaze shifting from Alora to Fiorella and back again.

"Well, well, well," my father sneered, dripping disdain in his tone. "These must be your friends. Quite a diverse group you've got here, Alaric. My own son, occupied with pathetic human relationships."

Alora's eyes narrowed, her voice laced with defiance. "And who the hell are you to judge his choices?"

"I stand here as the ruler of this land, and—"

"That still doesn't give you the permission to dictate who Alaric can be friends with," she interrupted, cutting him off. As much as any son would become angry seeing anyone be disrespectful towards his father, I was satisfied and smiled inwardly.

My father turned to her, a sly smile curling his lips. "Ah, a fierce one, I see." His glare intensified. "Alaric, you will explain the rules to them. This world needs order, and it is your duty to ensure it."

With a heavy sigh, I nodded in acquiescence. "I will fulfill my responsibilities, father. But just like Alora said, you have no authority to dictate my friendships."

"Don't forget, Alaric, your actions reflect your position as heir to the throne," my father countered. "Lately, you've been associating with other groups, neglecting your birthright."

A surge of defiance coursed through me. "Titles mean nothing to me. I answer to my own convictions, not the expectations of others."

"If titles mean nothing to you, perhaps we should reconsider your place in the line of succession," my father threatened. "Neglecting your birthright shows a lack of understanding and commitment to our legacy. The throne is not a playground for your whims. It demands responsibility, duty, and sacrifice, qualities you seem to have forgotten in pursuit of trivial endeavors."

Hearing this made my blood boil, but before I could speak, Alora interjected with her signature disdain and disregard. "Alaric's destiny is his own, and no one dares challenge what rightfully belongs to him."

Fiorella's hand gently restrained Alora, her voice calm and measured. "Alora, please, let's approach this with respect." And once again, I wasn't sure how Fiorella managed to keep herself so calm.

My father turned his keen gaze toward Alora, his expression a visage of calculated analysis. "Respect is a quality you may benefit from understanding, young lady. Becoming a vampire carries immense responsibility."

It was then that he proceeded to explain to both girls the weight of the transformation they were about to undergo, emphasizing the repercussions and the need for discipline. The gravity of his words infused the air, and with a newfound understanding, Alora and Fiorella approached the portal, one by one, their steps infused with hesitant determination.

As Fiorella gasped upon emerging from the portal, she exclaimed, "What just happened?" Her voice laced with a mix of awe and fear. "That power, that sensation coursing through my veins..." Alora screamed in joy, "I CAN'T BELIEVE I'M A VAMPIRE!"

Fiorella chuckled and asked her to calm down, ever the composed one.

I turned my attention back to my father. His gaze, though laden with expectations and the burden of our legacy, held a glint of respect.

"Father, I will forge my own path, with or without the approval of our people," I declared, my voice laced with newfound resolution.

He heard those words and left with two armored guards by his side. And I couldn't help but wonder if he would ever feel guilty about anything.

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-soulmates aren't just lovers-

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