**WARNING!** Heavy use of language and violence is present. Some scenes may not be suitable for younger readers.
This book, "Regal Rift," is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidenta...
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Prince Lyxander exited his chamber, his mind swirling with thoughts and uncertainties.
The weight of recent events pressed heavily on his shoulders, and he knew he needed guidance.
As he made his way through the castle's dimly lit corridors, he found himself drawn to the study chamber where his trusted mentor, Master Ellias, always seemed to be.
The journey to Master Ellias was a solitary one, filled with the echoes of his footsteps and the flickering light of torches mounted on the walls.
The study chamber was tucked away in a quiet corner of the castle, a sanctuary of knowledge and wisdom.
Lyxander pushed open the heavy wooden door and entered the room, immediately spotting Master Ellias engrossed in reading ancient tomes.
The old man looked up, surprise flickering across his face at the sight of his pupil.
"Prince Lyxander," Master Ellias greeted, setting his book aside.
"We don't have a session scheduled right now."
Lyxander smiled, stepping further into the room.
"I know, Master. I just wanted to spend some time with you."
Master Ellias studied the prince for a moment, understanding dawning in his wise eyes.
He gestured to a nearby chair.
"Sit down, my boy. Tell me what's troubling you."
Lyxander took the offered seat, his gaze drifting around the familiar room before meeting his master's eyes.
He hesitated, then smiled wryly.
"You truly know me, Master. You always seem to know when something's bothering me."
Ellias chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with affection.
"I know you inside out, Lyxander. Now, tell me what's weighing on your heart."
The prince sighed, feeling a small measure of comfort from his master's presence.
"I don't know, Master I feel overwhelmed this past event." His voice trailed off, and he looked down at his hands.
"From the ritual and vision I had during the time where we visit Sanctum of Celestial Light.
Master Ellias leaned forward, his expression attentive. "And?"
"And by the pressure I felt at the arrival of Princess Gabrielle."
Lyxander took a deep breath, the words spilling out in a rush. "And there's Cassiel. The burden I truly carry is that I know she can't reciprocate my feelings."
"Master Ellias, I... I don't know where to begin. So much has happened, and I feel like I'm drowning in it all."
Ellias nodded encouragingly.
"Start from the beginning, my boy. Take your time."
Lyxander took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts.
"It started with the ritual," he began, his voice tinged with uncertainty.
"The magic affinity ritual at the Sanctum of Celestial Light. I felt... I felt something, Master. Something powerful and... and overwhelming. It's like I tapped into a force beyond my understanding."
Master Ellias listened intently, his brow furrowing in thought.
"And what did you experience during this ritual?"Lyxander hesitated, struggling to put his sensations into words.
"It's hard to describe. It was like... like being bathed in a sea of energy. I saw visions, glimpses of things I couldn't comprehend. It left me feeling... unsettled."
Ellias nodded sympathetically.
"Such experiences can be disorienting, but they are also a sign of your connection to the magic that flows through our world. Embrace it, Lyxander. Learn from it."
"And what of Princess Gabrielle's arrival?" Ellias inquired gently, sensing there was more to Lyxander's troubles.
Lyxander sighed, running a hand through his hair in frustration.
"Princess Gabrielle... She's a friend to me, but her presence here only complicates things further. With her at my side, the expectations placed upon me seem even greater. I fear I may disappoint her, disappoint everyone."
Ellias offered a reassuring smile.
"Gabrielle cares for you deeply, Lyxander. She understands the weight of your responsibilities, perhaps better than anyone. Lean on her when you need to, but remember, you are not defined by the expectations of others."
Master Ellias his face is thoughtful, asked him once again.
"Tell me about Cassiel. Why do you think she doesn't share your feelings?"
Prince Lyxander silently dazed for a moment.
"Speak your mind, Lyxander," Ellias urged, his eyes gentle yet probing.
Lyxander's shoulders slumped.
"I... I don't know how to explain it, but whenever I'm around her, I feel... different. She's kind, and strong, and... and I can't help but feel drawn to her. But lately, it seems like she's... she's distanced herself from me." Lyxander confessed, his voice barely above a whisper.
Master Ellias listened in silence, his expression sympathetic.
"And why do you think she does that, Lyxander?"
Lyxander's shoulders sagged, the weight of his unspoken fears bearing down on him.
"I don't know maybe because she learned that I am a prince or perhaps it's because of Rhys. She's always had feelings for him, and... and I can't help but feel... jealous."
Ellias heard the sadness in Lyxander's voice, and his heart ached for his student.
"Have you spoken to her about this?"
Lyxander nodded his head.
"Yes, But theirs no point. I know where her heart lies. But I'm not angry with Rhys. It's not his fault. He's my friend, and I care about him. I just...I can't help but feel this emotion."
Master Ellias reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Lyxander's shoulder.
"Jealousy is a natural emotion, Lyxander. It's not something to be ashamed of. But you mustn't let it consume you. You have so much to focus on, so many responsibilities. Cassiel's feelings, whatever they may be, don't diminish your worth or your destiny."
Lyxander nodded slowly, absorbing his master's words.
"I know, Master. It's just hard. Everything feels so overwhelming."
Ellias smiled gently.
"That's why I'm here, my boy. To help you navigate these feelings, to guide you through these challenges. Remember, you're not alone in this."
Lyxander felt a wave of gratitude and relief.
"Thank you, Master Ellias. I don't know what I'd do without you."
Ellias squeezed his shoulder before releasing him.
"You are stronger than you think, Lyxander. Trust in yourself, and trust in the people who care about you. Together, we'll face whatever comes."
The prince smiled, feeling a renewed sense of hope.
