Shadowed Destiny

Chapter 03 - "lost in reflections"

Distorted voices and images started playing I couldn't understand or see them properly.

"Kaguya!" I heard a woman calling out my name her voice, tinged with desperation, cracked and wavered as she called out my name.
I jolted awake, gasping for air, with my tears rolling down my eyes without knowing why I was crying in my sleep. My hands were trembling as cold sweat drenched my trembling face, vivid echoes from that dream still lingering in my head.

I got out of my bed and washed my face in the bathroom; My heart still pounding, I wash my face as I stare at myself in the mirror. I didn't understand why my body is reacting this way to this dream, it was just a dream then why is my body reacting this way to it? Is there something about it that I should be worried about? Is it some sort of memory? Because that voice seemed eerily familiar.

It was that time of the year again, when the Queen hosted a ball for the people. I've never been to one and it was my first time going to the ball. But I have heard that this time there will be a masquerade ball. It used to be my dream as a kid to go there and look at me now I'm now attending one.

I was getting off my patrol when I found Ryuga near the whisperwoods near the kingdom.
"Ryuga!" I called out to him as he was in the distance from me.
"I didn't expect to see you here" he remarked, his tone tinged with surprise.
"I didn't either, are you heading home?" I asked him while we walked back together.
"Uhh.. yes I was" his tone carried a hint of uncertainty as if he was contemplating his journey home.
"Oh me too"
"Have you prepared for the upcoming ball?" He asked in curiosity.
"No I haven't even bought my dress, I've been too busy these days." I answered his question he listened to my problem and nodded his head he looked like he was thinking of something.

When I woke up the next morning I found a guard outside my front door with a big box. When I asked him what the box was for, he told me that a man told him to give this box to me as a 'gift'. When I asked who it was the guard said he didn't recognize him neither did he tell his name.
When I opened the box I found a beautiful purple coloured gown. The ethereal gown cascaded like a waterfall of twilight hues, a delicate dance of fabric in shades of light purple that seemed to capture the essence of a fading sunset. Its bodice, adorned with intricate silver filigree, resembled moonlit vines weaving through the fabric. Attached with a silver mask, the design whispered secrets of revelries and masked encounters. It was just beautiful and looked really expensive even for me.

There was also a small note inside that read :
"I remember how much you wanted to attend a royal ball, well congratulations! A small gift for you, I hope you wear this in the ball it would look beautiful on you. When I looked at the dress I immediately thought of you and how beautiful you would look in it. You probably don't remember me but I do. I'll meet you in the future."

Upon seeing the note, my heart fluttered with a mix of curiosity and nostalgia. The thoughtful gift ignited a sense of mystery, leaving me by the sender's identity. The words "you probably don't remember me but I do" triggered a wave of emotions, sparking a longing to unravel the forgotten connections of my past. Grateful for the gesture, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, wondering about the person behind the memories I couldn't recall.
I decided to wear the gown at the ball, if this person had said I would look beautiful in this dress would mean he would be there right? Maybe I could find him there, or does he plan to meet me there?
"I'll meet you in the future." Left me curious, just who was he? Why can't I remember him?
I was curious yet I had to stay calm and patient. If I wanted to know who was this anonymous man who knew me but I didn't know him I had to remain patient.

I was again called by the Queen for a "chit chat". I didn't really understand why she was so interested in me. It sometimes even feels like she's keeping an eye on me. This time I tried to observe her more.
"You're here." She spoke seeing me enter her study.
"Yes, your majesty."
"Have you prepared for the upcoming ball ?."
"Almost."
"I see." She paused and as If she's reconsidering if she should say it or not.
"Kaguya, I have a task for you." She spoke her tone showing a hint of seriousness.
"Yes your majesty?"
"I want you to find information about a man named 'Kurohoshi'.."
For some reason that name sounded familiar, but I was surprised she wanted me of all people to investigate for her.
"Is he an enemy?" I asked my head filling questions. What if this guy had something to do with her like that man who was killed by her.
"Yes, he is a very powerful one you really don't want to underestimate him."
"Is there a specific reason why you have chosen me for this task?" I asked curiously.
"I think you're more than capable of finding him."
She spoke her voice filled with certainty.

On my way back I met a childhood friend of mine. She was my only friend when I was a kid, it was really nice to see her here. She was just as cheerful as before, and she had become stronger.
"Kaguya!!!!!! I missed you soo much!!" Aria squealed as she hugged me. I pushed her away in annoyance since I did not like physical touch.
"You're as cold as before." She said cheerfully, her voice so loud it could be heard from kilometers away.
"Quiet down a bit."
"Oops sorry." She said covering her mouth when she realized how loud she was.
"Are you going to the ball?" She again spoke but in excitement this time.
"I am."
"Well of course you will, it was your dream as a kid remember?"
I looked at her remembering the note from the anonymous sender.
"Yea..I'll be right back see you later." Before she could answer I left.

I ran back to my house and took out the box from my closet taking out the note.
He must've known me as a kid. But how? I only knew and talked to Aria.

It was almost time for the ball people had started to gather. The royal ballroom exuded opulence, with towering, glided pillars framing the grandeur of the space. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high valuated ceiling, casting a casade of warm light that danced off the elaborate tapestries adorning the walls. The polished marble floors reflected the glittering gowns and tailored suits of the attendees, who swirled in elegant waltzes.

At the center, beneath a regal canopy, stood the resplendent throne, awaiting the arrival of dignitaries and honored guests. The fragrance of exotic flowers mingled with the sweet scent of polished wood, creating an atmosphere of timeless grace and sophistication in this grandeur ballroom