Legacy of The Enchanted

A Blood-Stained Proclamation

A/N: hello my dear and lovely readers! I want to warn you that there is mention of sexual assault if you are sensitive to this topic I advise you to read with caution. It does not escalate to more than forced kissing, but just to be safe please be careful. Enjoy the chapter!

Cum Amore

-Elli

(Alex's P.O.V)

The grand ballroom glittered with opulence, chandeliers casting shimmering light across the lavishly dressed guests. I stood at the entrance, every inch the perfect princess, though I felt anything but. The gown fit perfectly, the deep blue and silver fabric flowing elegantly, but it felt like a cage. My every movement was calculated, and my every expression was measured.

Taryn stood by my side, her matching uniform highlighting our bond, but she, too, played her part in this charade. Despite our close friendship, I was expected to treat her like a mere servant tonight. The weight of the pretense bore heavily on me.

As the ball progressed, the king and queen seemed in unusually high spirits, their laughter echoing through the room. The queen, my aunt, radiated a smug satisfaction that only deepened my unease. I tried to engage in polite conversation with the nobles, but my mind was elsewhere. I noticed one particularly persistent lord, Lord Zephyrus, who would not leave me alone. His presence was suffocating, his intentions clear.

"Ah, Princess Alessandra," Lord Zephyrus cooed, bowing with exaggerated elegance. "Might I have the honor of this dance?"

I forced a smile, hiding my distaste. "Of course, Lord Zephyrus."

We glided across the dance floor, his grip too tight, his eyes lingering too long. I could see Taryn watching from the sidelines. Despite her presence, I felt alone in this sea of false smiles and hollow compliments.

"Your gracefulness on the dance floor is unparalleled," Lord Zephyrus murmured, his breath warm against my ear. "I am most fortunate to have such a lovely partner."

"Thank you, Lord Zephyrus," I replied, keeping my tone polite. "Your compliments are most kind."

His hand slid lower on my back, brushing against the top of my hip. "Such beauty deserves admiration," he said, his voice thick with insinuation.

I stiffened, stepping back slightly. "My lord, there are many eyes upon us."

He laughed softly, his grip tightening. "Let them watch. A future bride and groom should be close, should they not?"

His proximity was suffocating, his touch invasive. I tried to maintain my composure, but the panic was rising. "Lord Zephyrus, you are too forward," I said, my voice shaking slightly.

He leaned in, his lips brushing my ear. "Get used to it, my dear. You will be mine soon enough."

I swallowed hard, the words catching in my throat. "I know not what you mean my lord" but he only smiled.

Hours passed like a slow torture, each dance and conversation blending into a monotonous blur. My discomfort grew with every minute, an inexplicable sense of unease gnawing at me. My aunt and uncle, usually so composed, were almost giddy. The queen's laughter rang out, sharp and unsettling.

Finally, my aunt clinked her glass, calling for attention. The room fell silent as she prepared to make an announcement. My unease deepened, a cold dread settling in my stomach.

"I have wonderful news," she began, her voice dripping with false sweetness. "I am expecting a child."

The words hit me like a blow. My stomach dropped, my heart pounding in my chest. The implications were immediate and devastating—I was no longer the heir.