Legacy of The Enchanted

Breaking the Chains

A/N: Hello lovelies, this chapter also contains mention of sexual assault so please read with caution. Enjoy!

Cum Amore

-Elli

(Alex's P.O.V.)

A tall, gaunt figure with short black hair and piercing ice-blue eyes emerged from the darkness. His clothes were simple and worn, his muscles taut but underfed. He bowed deeply, his eyes never leaving mine.

"Princess Alessandra," he said, his voice low and respectful.

I exchanged a glance with Taryn, who looked equally surprised. "Who are you?" I demanded, my voice trembling slightly despite my efforts to remain calm.

"My name is Archer," the elf replied, his gaze steady. "I am an ice elf, a fire tender in the castle. I fetch wood, chop it, and keep the fires burning throughout the night."

I studied him, my heart pounding. Ice elves were rare in these lands, and I had never seen one up close. His presence here was unexpected and dangerous, especially considering the queen's ruthless rule over the fae.

"Why are you here?" Taryn asked, her tone wary.

Archer hesitated, then took a step closer, lowering his voice. "I know how to help you escape," he whispered urgently. "After the ball, the castle will be in chaos with many guests leaving. The guards will be distracted, which will be the perfect time to slip away unnoticed."

My heart skipped a beat at his words. An escape? It seemed almost too good to be true. But the desperation in Archer's eyes convinced me that he was sincere.

"And why would you help us?" I asked, narrowing my eyes in suspicion.

Archer's expression darkened, a flicker of pain crossing his features. "Because I know what it's like to be trapped, to be at the mercy of those more powerful than you. I have no love for the queen and cannot stand by and do nothing while she tightens her grip on the throne."

I shook my head, anxiety tightening in my chest. "No, this is too dangerous. If we're caught—"

Archer's eyes flashed with impatience, and he cut me off, his voice sharp. "I am just trying to help you not be forced into an arranged marriage, but by all means, feel free to stay."

His words stung, and I felt a pang of guilt for hesitating. He was right—if I didn't act now, I might never escape Lord Zephyrus's grasp. The thought of being trapped in a marriage with him, of losing what little freedom I had left, was unbearable.

Taryn's hand found mine, her grip firm and reassuring. "Alex, we can't stay here. We have to take this chance."

I looked between them, my heart racing. This was our only way out—our only hope of breaking free from the queen's control. Taking a deep breath, I nodded, feeling a surge of determination.

"Very well," I said, my voice firm. "Taryn, go to our chambers. Pack anything we might need, and bring my daggers and riding clothes. We must be ready to leave as soon as the ball ends."

Taryn nodded, her eyes wide with determination. "And what about you?"

"I will return to the ball," I replied, steeling myself. "I have to act as if nothing is wrong as if this conversation never happened. If anyone suspects us, we're done for."

Archer nodded in agreement, his expression softening. "Exactly. We'll meet back here once everything is ready. But be careful, Princess. Lord Zephyrus is watching you closely."

The mention of his name sent a shiver down my spine, but I forced myself to remain composed. "I know," I said quietly. "But I won't let him stop us."

Taryn squeezed my hand once more before hurrying off towards the palace. Archer gave me a final nod before melting back into the shadows, leaving me alone with my thoughts.