💖FROM HATE TO HEART 💖

BENEATH THE STARS

💗 CH -5 💗

One evening, Alec received a formal invitation from King Luke, the ruler of the neighboring kingdom of Aetheria. Luke's reputation preceded him-he was a fair and just king, known for leading Aetheria with both compassion and strength.

He invited Alec for a diplomatic visit, hoping to discuss alliances and matters of security for their realms, which had faced new threats from dark forces lurking beyond their borders. Alec knew that building an alliance with Aetheria would not only strengthen Alicante but also bring peace and prosperity to both lands.

After discussing the matter with his council, Alec decided to accept King Luke's invitation. He prepared to journey to Aetheria with Theo, he was not only skilled in swordplay but also deeply knowledgeable about magic, making him an invaluable companion on their journey.

As they departed from Alicante, the people of the kingdom gathered to send their king off with cheers and well-wishes. Alec, dressed in his royal armor with the emblem of Alicante-a majestic dragon-embellished across his chest, rode alongside Theo, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity about the land of Aetheria.

The journey was long, but Aetheria's beauty made every moment worthwhile. Aetheria was a land like no other, with forests that glistened under the morning sun, rivers that sparkled with a surreal blue hue, and valleys filled with magical flora.

Unlike Alicante's mountainous terrain and dragon-filled skies, Aetheria was home to mystical creatures, including phoenixes, unicorns, and fae who lived in harmony with the kingdom's people. Theo, always one to appreciate new sights, marveled at the majestic landscapes and mythical beings they encountered.

Upon reaching Aetheria's grand castle, Alec and Theo were warmly welcomed by King Luke. Luke was tall and robust, with a presence that commanded respect yet radiated warmth. He was known for his wisdom and a kindness that was rare among rulers, qualities that quickly won Alec's admiration. The courtiers and nobles of Aetheria, eager to catch a glimpse of the Dragon King, observed Alec and Theo's arrival with great interest.

Luke greeted Alec with a strong handshake and led them through the castle's sprawling halls adorned with ancient tapestries and glowing crystal chandeliers.

That evening, Luke hosted a welcoming feast for his honored guests. The banquet hall was filled with an array of delicacies from across the kingdom-exotic fruits, roasted meats, and sweet pastries-and the scent of spices lingered in the air. Musicians played melodies that filled the hall with a sense of festivity, and the nobles and guests engaged in lively conversation.

Alec and Luke spent the evening in deep discussion, sharing stories of their kingdoms. Alec spoke of Alicante's people, its history with dragons, and the challenges of ruling a land known for its fierce loyalty and ancient magic.

Luke, in turn, spoke about Aetheria's heritage of magic users and its unique creatures, along with the values he held dear for his kingdom-compassion, unity, and protection of the land and its people.

As the night settled over Aetheria, Alec found himself standing alone on a balcony of the grand castle. The celebrations had ended, and the sounds of music and laughter had faded into the quiet of the night. A gentle breeze rustled through the leaves of the nearby trees, and the moon cast a soft glow across the landscape, illuminating the kingdom in a silver light.

Looking out at the serene beauty of Aetheria, Alec couldn't help but feel a sense of calm. But there was something else-a lingering memory that tugged at his mind. Earlier that day, while exploring the kingdom with Theo, he had caught a glimpse of someone familiar in the bustling marketplace. His honey-toned skin, his long braid, and those unforgettable amber eyes that glowed like embers.