Cursed By Fate

Whispers in the palace

Chapter 3: Whispers in the Palace

In the heart of the royal palace, the two princes sat in the grand library, though they couldn’t have been more different. Prince Kael, the youngest, was lounging on a velvet couch, his golden hair catching the sunlight that streamed in through the large windows. He had an easy smile that never left his face, his eyes always gleaming with a mischievous spark. Handsome and charming, Kael had become well-known for his flirtatious ways. His kind nature was a stark contrast to his brother, and despite his carefree demeanor, he had been chosen by two extraordinary gods. His powers were subtle but significant—a deep connection to nature and the power of healing.

Sitting across from him at a large oak table was Prince Ryker, the eldest. Ryker exuded a presence that commanded attention without effort. His raven-black hair framed a face of chiseled features, with eyes as cold and piercing as ice. Known throughout the kingdom for his ruthless nature, Ryker had been chosen by three gods, making him the strongest in the royal family. His powers were not only feared but respected by all who knew of him. While Kael charmed those around him, Ryker ruled with a cold, calculated manner, his emotions locked away behind an impenetrable wall.

“Your attention seems elsewhere, brother,” Kael teased, flipping through the pages of a book on ancient spells. “Has the weight of ruling the kingdom already begun to bore you?”

Ryker shot his brother a glance, his lips curling into a faint smirk. “Your games amuse you far more than they amuse me,” he replied, his voice as icy as his gaze.

Kael shrugged, unbothered by the coldness in Ryker’s tone. “You should learn to relax, Ryker. Not everything has to be a battlefield.”

“To you, perhaps,” Ryker said, standing and walking toward the window. His gaze fell on the horizon, where the Academy stood in the distance. His thoughts drifted to the Selection. He had sensed something unusual about the girl, Aria. Though he did not care for most people, her lack of expression, the stillness about her, intrigued him in a way he hadn’t felt in years. Not that it mattered. She was no concern of his, and he would continue to rule as he always had—cold and unfeeling.

Kael, always perceptive, noticed his brother’s distant gaze. “The Academy again?” he mused. “You’re not curious about this year’s selection?”

“Curiosity is for those who have the luxury of wasting time,” Ryker said, his voice low. “I have more important matters to attend to.”

Kael chuckled. “Of course. Important matters like brooding and terrorizing the court.”

Ryker ignored his brother’s jab, his thoughts already elsewhere. Despite his cold exterior, Ryker’s mind was always working, calculating his next move, ensuring that no one would ever see his vulnerabilities.