FERMONIA

Acquired Freedom

Freedom is always acquired in the most unexpected circumstances. It is bewildering and at the same time a sigh of relief. You can run as far as the valley can be, see life in a different pattern, and live a life in a way that suits you. However, you must always wonder if it is actually freedom? Are you certain that the chains are not as long as the valley can be? What about the life you chose, is that actually chosen or predetermined?

My mother's words echoed in my head as I stomped my way in this ghost-quite hallway. The crunch travels through the entire room as I grip the letter harder, piercing my nails deeper in my palm.

A sudden order of vacation was decided without my knowledge. Not an honorary discharge or a forced leave but rather a vacation!

In normal circumstances this might not be suspicious however, we are talking about the ruler of this land. A woman known for her cunningness wouldn't just give ME, of all people, a sudden vacation! Not when she can't gain anything from it. And that's what ticks me off.

I halted myself in the middle of the room and turned my head to the right. I see a tan woman with striking white hair and piercing purple eyes staring back at me. Her smile is held high while her gaze lies low and directed to me.

How Ironic.

For a moment I could not recognize the reflection of myself on the window. How could my outside look so serene while my inside is in a commotion? But then again, my ragged breathing and intense rising of my chest gave it away.

I dragged my gaze away from my reflection to shut my eyes and took a deep breath after deep breaths.

I repeat over, and over, and over again. Slowing my breathing to become even. I opened my eyes and my gaze immediately landed on a tiny pool of blood forming on the ground. Drops of crimson liquid were steadily dripping from my palm, each one adding to the growing puddle. I was unable to notice my tight grip and bleeding palm.

I release my grip. Nails are covered in deep crimson and the letter is soaked in blood. I stared at a bloody mess of a hand and led my mana in the area. A blazing fire emerged, scorching the letter to nothing. I dismissed the fire and continued my walk while reaching a handkerchief in my pockets.

My steps lead me to a massive door. A door filled with well thought carving, each carving represents a history of the past and legacy of my bloodline. Something that anyone would be proud of. Fortunately for me, that is something I would kill myself from doing.

I handed one of the bowing guard my blooded handkerchief and signaled to open the door. "Lady Aziria is entering!" The other guard shouted to notify the people inside. The door opened and immediately, I saw the throne that shines ever so brightly to the point that it can even blind someone if stared at for a long time. The throne is made out of sterium, a rare material, known for its durable properties and its beautiful metallic hues that shine endlessly. Not to mention, it sits in the middle of this massive throne room, where every corner carves its wealth, power, and dignity. A room that screams authority. A room where she should be in and yet, she's not.

To my disappointment the throne is empty however, the THRONE ROOM is not. Twelve people were inside but the person I sought is not present. I sighed and took a step to enter the serpent's nest. The red carpet feels so ominous as I tread my way to the front. Everyone is quiet. Too quiet. Some glance at me and some try to ignore my presence, but one thing's for sure, they are observing me. Quietly throwing their side glances. If their glances could shoot knives, every corner of my body would be covered by it and I wouldn't be standing here alive.

"You still lack manners, I see?" one of my aunts breaks the silence, her voice dripping with contempt. She sneers proudly, her eyes glinting with malice. "It just shows your mother's incapability to do anything. She can't even teach you basic manners." Her words cut through the air, piercing me with an overuse phrase.