Wings Of Fate

A Fairy's Promise

As they entered the fairy kingdom, everything seemed to shimmer and glisten with a magical allure unique to this realm. The palace gardens were lush with vibrant flowers, the sky above painted in hues of gold and lavender, and soft lights drifted around them like floating stars. Fairies from all over the kingdom stopped to watch as Eugene and Riven flew past, their eyes widening as they caught sight of their crown prince, who had been away for so long. Whispers filled the air, and although many looked curious and respectful, Riven could feel the weight of being an outsider in their gaze.

As they approached the palace entrance, King Eldric stood regally, his tall frame cloaked in robes adorned with shimmering threads that glinted like silver in the sunlight. His expression was stoic but tinged with an edge of relief, his gaze fixed on Eugene. Riven, however, felt a tightening in his chest. He had no love lost for the king, who had once dismissed his own father, a loyal bodyguard, without a second thought. Now, standing before the king, he felt every bit the outsider he had always been here, despite his love for Eugene.

The king looked from Riven to Eugene, nodding his acknowledgment. "Thank you, Riven, for bringing my son home safely." His voice was formal, with a hint of finality, as if already dismissing Riven from his duty. "You may go now."

But before Riven could respond, Eugene stepped forward, gripping Riven's arm tightly. "Father, Riven isn't going anywhere. I've chosen him. He will stay in the palace with me."

King Eldric's brows raised in surprise, his gaze flickering between them. "Chosen him? Eugene, what exactly do you mean by that?"

Eugene's eyes sparkled with a stubborn resolve, and he took a steady breath. "I love Riven. I feel safe with him. I want to be with him forever. I want him to be my-"

"Bodyguard," Riven interjected smoothly, bowing his head respectfully toward the king. "Your majesty, the prince means he wants me to be his protector. I am honored to serve him as his bodyguard."

The king's face relaxed, a look of relief softening his expression. "Ah. Well, that's understandable."

Eugene frowned, pulling his hand from Riven's grip. "No, that's not what I meant! I want him-"

But Riven cut in again, his voice calm. "Your majesty, it's very kind of the prince to consider me a friend. I am deeply honored to have a place here in the palace."

The king smiled, reassured. "That's good, then. Riven, I trust you to keep our crown prince safe." He gestured toward Eugene. "Now, Eugene, go and rest."

With one last stern nod, the king turned and departed, leaving them alone.

Once inside Eugene's chambers, the heavy doors closed, and Eugene rounded on Riven, his face flushed with frustration. "Why didn't you let me tell him the truth, Riven?"

Riven sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Eugene, do you want me to lose my wings? Your father will never accept that you love a wild fairy like me."

Eugene's eyes narrowed, the defiance in them fierce. "But I'm the prince. I should have the right to decide who I love! And you're not just a wild fairy-you're the strongest, kindest, most amazing fairy I've ever met." His voice softened, his eyes glistening as he added, "I don't want anyone else. Just you."

Riven couldn't help a small smile as he gently cupped Eugene's face. "I know, and I love you too, Eugene. But if you want me here, with you, we'll have to keep things hidden. For now."

Eugene's shoulders tensed, his eyes filling with hurt and betrayal. He jerked back, his voice trembling. "So, you're only here out of pity, then? You just feel sorry for a stupid crown prince who's lonely and sad? Well, I don't need a babysitter, Riven! I need a real partner-a lover who sees me as his equal, not someone to be pacified like a child."