Vows And Veil

Oh, Here Comes The Loveless Forever.

Amma, known by many titles—seer, clairvoyant, prophetess—maintained an enigmatic aura about her true nature and abilities. She neither confirmed nor denied these appellations, keeping her insights veiled in mystery. Despite her reticence, her influence was undeniable. Like her predecessors, she played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the kingdom, offering her wisdom and foresight to generations of rulers, including King Taylor Redmond.

Over her remarkable lifespan of a hundred and three years, Amma had witnessed the unfolding of King Redmond's life, from his infancy to his reign, including the marriages and births within the royal family. She stood as a living testament to the enduring legacy of Lovaria's lineage, a linchpin connecting past, present, and future.

Amma's longevity was not unique within her family. Her mother had lived to a hundred and twenty-seven, and generations before her had similarly enjoyed extended lives. Despite her profound insights, Amma lived a humble existence in a modest cottage, accompanied only by her loyal helpers, Malaika, Yolanda, and Harris. Unlike her female relatives, she had never married nor started a family, knowing that her legacy would end with her passing.

Amma's decision to end the legacy remained shrouded in secrecy, known only to her. While she held her reasons close, she was resolute that it was for the greater good of the world. The weight of Lovaria's elders' legacy had grown too heavy, threatening to cast a shadow over the realm if allowed to persist.

A soft voice interrupted Amma's contemplation, drawing her attention to Malaika, who knelt beside her, clutching a letter. Amma's aged eyes fell upon the missive, recognizing the scent of the princess imbued within it. It was from Adelaide.

"Open it, my dear," Amma gently urged Malaika, who obediently complied, extracting the letter and presenting it to her. Amma chuckled softly, reminding Malaika of her inability to read.

Malaika, aware of Amma's limitations, hesitated to read the contents without permission. "May I read it to you, Amma?" she asked respectfully. Amma sighed, sensing the gravity of the moment, and nodded in assent. The time she had anticipated seemed to be drawing near.

...

Outside the walls of Redmond Castle, the bustle of carts being readied to transport the Adorean royals back to their homeland fills the air. Yet, amidst this flurry of activity, there's an undercurrent of solemnity that hangs heavy over the departure—the departure of Adelaide.

Today marks the beginning of Adelaide's exodus from the only home she's ever known. With each passing moment, she draws closer to bidding farewell to her realm, her land, and her life. Her departure signifies not just a physical relocation, but a profound shift in her identity. No longer will she be the cherished princess of Lovaria, instead, she will assume the role of a wife to a prince who barely acknowledges her existence.

As she contemplates this impending transition, a whirlwind of emotions swirls within her. Regret gnaws at her conscience, casting shadows over the dreams she once held dear. She had envisioned a life filled with exploration, learning, and independence before succumbing to the confines of matrimony. Yet, in a cruel twist of fate, her aspirations lay shattered at her feet, shattered by her own foolish infatuation with Fredrick.

Adelaide's belief in love lies shattered, its fragments scattered amidst the wreckage of her shattered dreams. She no longer harbors illusions of selfless devotion; to her, every action is tainted by selfish motives. The bitter taste of betrayal lingers on her lips, a constant reminder of her naivety and folly.

"Adelaide," her mother's gentle voice pierced through the heavy silence, drawing her attention to the tear-stained face of Queen Mary. "I... It's just so hard for me to accept that you'll be journeying thousands of miles away from me, my dear. How will I cope without you by my side?" Her voice wavered with emotion as tears welled up in her eyes.