The Queen's Guard

Chapter 24

Though Carina had thrown herself into her duties, she hadn't had the strength to actively participate in the planning of events. She often felt like a puppet, smiling when told to smile, her true emotions buried deep within. She genuinely cared for her people and wanted to do well by them, but the pain of loss had carved out a hollow in her chest, leaving her feeling incomplete and detached.

So, when she finally heard about the gala for the frontline army, she was taken aback. A grand dinner was planned to honor selected individuals from the frontline, recognizing their dedication and achievements. The frontline army had undergone months of rigorous training and had become the most formidable force the kingdoms had seen in years.

Carina quickly tried to distance herself from the mounting anxiety, burying herself in her work. One evening, as she sat in her chambers, Ben entered quietly. He closed the door behind him, his expression serious yet gentle. "Your Majesty," he began, before suggesting he could have Maya's name taken off the guest list. 

Carina's heart ached at the thought, but she shook her head, trying to convince herself it would be fine. "No, she deserves to be honored for her service, right?" Her voice trembled slightly, betraying her inner turmoil.

Ben, who had watched his queen suffer from a distance, didn't agree with her decision. After a long time, the distant look in Carina's eyes had begun to fade. Parts of her were coming back. Seeing Maya might bring her back into all the pain and sorrow. But he followed his queen's wishes, knowing her resilience was as much a part of her as her kindness.

Maya received the invitation along with the other commanders. As she held the elegant parchment in her hands, the familiar seal of the castle pressed into the wax, she felt a jolt of anxiety surge through her. Her fellow commanders were surprised, some eagerly discussing their plans for the gala, their excitement palpable. Maya, however, felt a knot of dread tightening in her chest.

She had just begun to get consistent sleep at night, a fragile reprieve from the turmoil that had consumed her since leaving Carina. The invitation shattered that peace, bringing back the restless nights and haunting memories. She contemplated not going, imagining how she could avoid the event. But she knew it wasn't really an option. No one refused an invitation to the castle without sparking a million questions, questions she wasn't prepared to answer.

As the days passed, Maya's apprehension grew. She told herself it was just a gala, a grand event where she could blend into the background. With so many important people attending, the likelihood of crossing paths with Carina seemed slim.

The journey to the castle felt surreal. The landscape passed by in a blur, her mind consumed by what awaited her. The grandeur of the castle seemed even more foreign than the first time she was there. The opulence of the gala was overwhelming. The grand hall was adorned with lavish decorations, the air filled with the murmur of dignitaries and the clinking of crystal glasses. Maya moved through the crowd, her presence noted but not remarked upon. She was just another commander, part of the grand spectacle.

The anticipation built as the guests settled into their places. The air buzzed with excitement and whispered conversations. Suddenly, the doors opened, and the king and queen entered. Their entrance commanded immediate attention, a hush falling over the room as all eyes turned to them. Carina looked resplendent, her regal bearing exuding confidence, while the king walked beside her with an air of authority.

Maya's breath caught in her throat at the sight of them. Her eyes lingered on Carina, unable to tear away, but the sight of the king at her side brought a surge of conflicting emotions. She watched in muted agony as the king took Carina's hand, guiding her to the head of the table.