Chapter 7="Hidden Wounds: Healing Beyond the Surface"

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Raphael:

"Where are you going, Kirins?" I called out to her, watching as she darted away from me through the garden, filled with vibrant flowers.

"Where you can't find me?" she replied, her smile lighting up her face as she turned and balanced on her toes. Her smile had a way of warming my heart, melting even the coldest parts of me. I was the fifth prince of the eldoria Empire, but the prospect of the throne held little interest for me. All I desired was to spend the rest of my days with her—my love, Kirins Sullivan de Althiya, the sister of the King of Althiya Kingdom.

Kirins and I were the same age, and from the moment we met at the age of five, I knew she was the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. Althiya Kingdom, where she hailed from, was known for its spirit controllers. Spirit power awakened within individuals who possessed a deep understanding and love for nature. Kirins was no exception; her affinity for nature was palpable, and it seemed as though she could feel every emotion that flowed through the natural world. In turn, nature rewarded her with spirit power.

Althiya Kingdom, surrounded by lush forests, was ruled by King Eniur, Kirins's brother. He had two daughters: the first princess, Elisha de Sullivan Althiya, and the second princess, Lara de Sullivan Althiya. Kirins, beloved by her brother and adored by her niece, held a special place in their hearts. Despite being the king's daughters, Elisha and Lara saw Kirins as more than just an aunt—she was like an older sister to them. Remarkably, King Eniur was only ten years older than Kirins.

After those two children lost their mother, Kirins took great care of them. At just fifteen years old, she assumed the role of caretaker while I was engrossed in practicing magic and swordsmanship. I longed to assist her, but my parents had other plans for me—they wanted me to achieve greatness. However, my heart yearned to spend time with Kirins, not pursue titles or accolades.

Fortunately, our families shared a close bond, and my father insisted that I spend my childhood time with Kirins first. As the years went by, my affection for her deepened, until I found myself falling deeply in love. However, fate had other plans, and I was required to depart for the Ivory Tower after only two short years by her side.

We reunited at her coming-of-age ceremony, a decade later. Both she and I had become adults that year, turning eighteen. In the tranquil garden of the Althiya Kingdom's royal palace, we found ourselves seated together on a bench, side by side.

“So what are you planning to do in the future?” she asked me.

“To love you,” I replied earnestly, feeling my cheeks flush with warmth. Her blush mirrored my own.

“That's something you'll have to do in the future, even if I'm not by your side,” she responded, her green eyes gleaming in the moonlight. With a wave of her hand, she summoned a moonspirit, a white fairy that showered us with sparkling light, creating a magical moment.

Moved by the enchanting atmosphere, I drew her close and pressed my lips to hers. “You have to marry me, my love, after I come back from this battlefield,” I whispered.

“Of course. I will wait for you,” she replied, accepting my kiss with love and determination.

Some thirty minutes later, Elisha, Kirins's niece, interrupted our tender moment, calling out for her aunt,” Aunty ..where are you?”She was a lively seven-year-old with features opposite to Kirins—light green hair and pink eyes.

“So when will Elisha's spirit power awaken?” I inquired as we made our way back to the party.

“Maybe three or two years. I don’t know if it can be early or late too,” she replied.

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