Cursed By Fate

chapter 39

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, Aria stood outside her tent, tying the last knot on the rope that secured the canvas. The camp was alive with the sounds of soldiers preparing for the night, their voices mingling with the crackling of fires and the distant clang of weapons.

Her mystical mount, a majestic creature with feathers that shimmered like stars, stood nearby, its eyes calm yet alert. Aria ran her hand over its neck, finding comfort in its presence. Despite the noise of the encampment, her thoughts wandered back to Ryker. The memory of his fierce determination and the intensity of his gaze lingered in her mind, a fire that warmed her even in the midst of uncertainty.

She sighed, trying to push the thoughts away. Focus on the present, Aria. She had her own battle to fight, and the weight of her family legacy pressed heavily on her shoulders. But the way Ryker looked at her, the way he fought alongside her during the attack on the ball, ignited a determination in her heart to prove herself worthy of his regard.

As she secured the final rope, a figure approached from the shadows, and Aria’s heart raced. She turned to find her father’s friend, a man she had known since childhood, stepping forward. His presence brought a mix of nostalgia and warmth, reminding her of stories her father used to tell.

“Aria,” he greeted, his voice deep and reassuring. “It’s good to see you. I was worried when I heard you would be joining the frontlines.”

“Hello,” she replied, forcing a smile. “I’m here to fight for our kingdom, just like everyone else.”

He studied her, his eyes full of understanding. “You’re braver than many I’ve known. But you must also remember that this war is brutal, and it will test you in ways you cannot imagine.”

“I’m ready,” she insisted, straightening her posture. “I can handle it.”

He nodded, but his expression was somber. “Just remember, you are not alone. Your father and I fought together many times, and I will protect you as he did. You carry his legacy, and I see that strength in you.”

Aria’s heart swelled with pride at his words, but a part of her still ached for Ryker’s support. She had felt invincible beside him, and without him, the path ahead seemed uncertain.

“I wish he were here,” she confessed, her voice barely above a whisper. “I wish Ryker could fight by my side.”

Her father’s friend tilted his head, studying her carefully. “It’s clear you care deeply for him. That bond will give you strength, even if he is not physically present.”

Aria nodded, trying to suppress the emotions that threatened to overwhelm her. “I need to focus on my mission, but I can’t help thinking about him. What if something happens to him while I’m here?”

“Worrying won’t change anything, Aria. But you can channel that energy into your training and your duty. If you fight with conviction, you honor him in the best way possible,” he advised.

With a deep breath, Aria steeled herself. She needed to be strong for Ryker and for herself. “You’re right. I’ll fight with everything I have. I won’t let him down.”

“Good. Now, let’s get ready. We’ll need all the strength we can muster when the sun rises,” he said, giving her an encouraging nod before stepping away.

As he left, Aria turned back to her mount, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. She stroked the creature’s feathers, and with every gentle touch, she could almost feel Ryker’s presence beside her. With the battle ahead, she would draw upon that connection, transforming her longing into the fire needed to fight for her kingdom and for the bond they shared.

Tomorrow would be a new beginning, one where she could prove not only her worth but also the strength of their love, even from afar.