Shadows Of Destiny

Chapter- II

                                  >>---->The Guardian<----<<

I awaited her outside the grand gate, for we had preparations to commence for the royal ball. The princess had reached the age suitable for marriage, and Queen Seraphine anticipated her swift union. Despite what she had endured, she appeared remarkably innocent, more profound than one would expect from someone with such a storied past.

She walked out of the doorway, adorned in a regal crimson gown, intricately adorned with blossoms and glistening golden jewels. Whoever was to get a chance to marry her would be lucky. I noticed how her brown hair had been styled into a bun, and how a small golden crown was placed atop her head. I bowed as she walked to me.

"I'm ready," she said. Her voice was as smooth as silk.

"Yes, Princess, we have a lot to discuss regarding the upcoming ball."

I found it increasingly difficult to tear my gaze away from her as we walked, the afternoon sun casting a warm glow over her features. There was an elegance in the way she carried herself, a quiet strength that seemed to draw me in more with each passing moment.

As we strolled down the garden path, I felt a soft breeze brush against us, carrying the scent of blooming flowers. It was a serene setting, but my thoughts were anything but calm. Every step we took together, every word she spoke, stirred something within me—something I hadn't allowed myself to acknowledge before.

She glanced over at me, her amber eyes reflecting the sunlight, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow. "Elana, do you ever wonder what it would be like if things were different? If I didn't have to marry for duty?"

Her question surprised me, and I hesitated, searching for the right response. It was a dangerous path to tread, yet the sincerity in her voice compelled me to answer honestly. "I do wonder, Princess. But the life we lead is shaped by our responsibilities. It doesn't mean we can't find happiness within them."

In response, she nodded, seemingly considering my words.

We continued our walk in silence, which was broken by her, "Who are we sending invitations to?"

"Forgive me, I might not remember all the names but as far as I am aware, invitations have been set out to the kingdoms of Veridale, Eldoria, Atherton, Kleves and Vesperia." It was the Queen's orders to invite these kingdoms though from the Princess' face I doubted she liked any of them.

I heard her exhale a breath, "What if I am not good enough?" She whispered. I could see her fidgeting with her fingers.

I doubted she wouldn't find a suitor, she was perfect in every way. Skilled in arts, beautiful physically and well-versed in statecraft. How could she not be chosen? How could she not be good enough?

"Well, I doubt so, Your Highness," I spoke in return, "there is not much you cannot do. You are a perfect princess."

She paused and looked at me, "Do you truly think so?"

"I do," I said, my voice filled with honesty, "Yes. I do think so."

A small smile tugged at her lips, "I'm glad."

»»————-　♔　————-««

The ensuing days were a flurry of activity as we made preparations for the grand ball. The arrangements, decorations, and invitations were meticulously attended to, but most crucially, security was of paramount concern. It had been a mere moment since the attempt on her life, and I couldn't bear the thought of losing her. Not like him. I was determined to protect her at all costs. I would protect her for him.

However, the task was arduous, particularly as I found myself leading a group of men.

I told Gunther, "I have asked for five guards to be stationed here." Gunther, a term which means soldier in the noble German language, did not embody the qualities of a true soldier.

"Well, I did ask them," he sighed, "but it's not my fault they don't take a woman seriously."

"Listen," I gazed him in the eye with resolve, "I do not concern myself with their opinion of me. It is my duty to make sure that the Queen's orders are carried out with the highest levels of seriousness. I am bound by Her Majesty's strict instructions to ensure nothing but perfection."

He made a face of displeasure but ultimately acquiesced.

"Is that clear?" I inquired.

"Yes," he responded.

Perhaps word got around about how serious I was about my job or maybe Gunther did something. I did not care. The rest of the work was done rather well.

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