Shadows Of Destiny

Chapter- I

                                                                        >>------> The Princess <-----<<

In the midst of another round of crucial discussions, I found myself immersed in the delicate art of diplomacy. Despite my ample experience in such matters, today felt different. I had been entrusted with a new guardian following the departure of my previous protector. It had only been five days since an attempt on my life, and the perpetrators remained at large. As a result, I found myself confined within the heavily fortified walls of the castle.

As I strolled through the grand hallways adorned with intricate gold designs depicting our storied history, I could not shake the lingering distress from my recent ordeal. The air carried the sweet scent of lavender mixed with that of polished wood. Upon reaching the throne room, I beheld my mother, Queen Seraphine, seated on a slightly smaller throne to the right of the imposing, empty seat of authority. She appeared visibly concerned, and before her, stood a woman of striking beauty, exuding elegance and grace.

Upon my announcement, the woman turned to face me. Her dazzling blue eyes caught my attention, and her hair, though carelessly styled, added to her allure. She was clad in resplendent silver armour, with a majestic emerald cape cascading gracefully over her shoulders. A sword was girded at her side.

"Your Highness, Princess Helen," she bowed.

"Hello," I greeted her politely, "you must be my new guard?"

"Yes," she nodded, "I am Elana Hartwood."

Well, this would be interesting. It would be my first time having a woman as a guard.

 »»————-　♔　————-««

It was most dreadful. She was too strict. My word, I hated her.

We had come back from a walk in the park with a few of my friends, Edith, Cyril and Abigail. And the way she had been eyeing the four of us drove me insane. Even my old bodyguard, Alexander hadn't been that vigilant. Yes, maybe she was just being cautious considering the last attacks but no one does that. Maybe I am just overreacting? Maybe. Perhaps. Probable. Yes, I most definitely am.

"Are you not being a little too vigilant?" I asked her as we walked to my room.

"Do you expect me to not when you were almost killed only five days ago, Your Highness?"

I sighed, "You could be less serious about it though, could you not?"

"I do not think I am supposed to follow unless it is an order?"

She was *infuriating*. Before I could respond, she spoke up, "Your room is here. You might want to leave."

"Yes, yes," I agreed, "what is next?"

"Just dinner now. You are free for the evening."

I made my way into my room, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—irritation, exhaustion, and a strange sense of safety. Despite Elana's strict demeanor, there was a certain comfort in knowing that someone so diligent was looking out for me.

My room, adorned with soft pastels and luxurious fabrics, was a haven where I could let my guard down. I glanced out the window at the sprawling gardens below, the sun beginning to set and casting a golden glow across the landscape. The tranquility of the view momentarily calmed my nerves.

I changed into a more comfortable dress and sat at my vanity, absentmindedly running a brush through my hair. My thoughts drifted back to the recent attack. The memory of it was still raw, and the unknown threat loomed over me like a dark cloud. I shivered at the thought of what could have happened if my guards hadn't intervened in time.

A soft knock on the door pulled me out of my reverie. "Come in," I called.

The door opened to reveal Edith, my closest confidante. "I thought I'd check on you before dinner," she said with a warm smile, closing the door behind her.

I returned the smile, grateful for her familiar presence. "I'm glad you did. I could use the company."

Edith sat beside me on the plush bed. "How are you holding up? I can't imagine how stressful all of this must be."

I sighed, setting the brush down. "It's been overwhelming. I know Elana is just doing her job, but it's frustrating to have someone constantly watching my every move."

Edith nodded in understanding. "She does seem a bit intense, but she has a point. After what happened, you can't be too careful."

"I know," I admitted. "I suppose I'm just not used to this level of scrutiny. It's... suffocating."

Edith placed a comforting hand on my arm. "It'll get better, I promise. And you have all of us to help you through it."

I smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "Thank you, Edith. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"Anytime," Edith replied. "Now, let's go to dinner. I hear the kitchen has prepared something special tonight."

As we headed out of the room toward the dining hall, I felt a renewed resolve. I would face the challenges ahead, no matter how daunting, and I would do it with the support of those I loved.
________________________________________________________________________________