The Curse Of Destruction [THE FIVE REALMS SERIES 1]

Chapter 1

"Princess Floryn, the King summons you to the dining hall," one of my attendants called from outside the library room where I was engrossed in my studies.

Setting down the ancient tome I had been poring over, I took a moment to absorb the intricate tapestries adorning the walls before rising from my seat. The attendant opened the door with a respectful bow, and I followed the flickering torchlight as it guided me through the labyrinthine corridors of the palace.

Entering the opulent dining hall, I was greeted by the warm smiles of my father, the King, and my mother, the Queen. The table was a vision of opulence, laden with dishes that spoke of the bounty of our kingdom.

"My dear Floryn, come and join us for lunch," my father beckoned, his voice a comforting presence amidst the grandeur of the hall.

As I settled into my seat, the clinking of silverware and the murmur of conversation filled the air, creating a symphony of royal indulgence. The fragrant aromas of the dishes mingled with the soft glow of the candlelight, casting a warm ambiance over the regal setting.

Amidst the feast, my father's voice cut through the gentle din, his eyes alight with anticipation. "Floryn, your tenth birthday approaches, and we have planned a grand celebration in your honor. The prime minister is already at work on the invitations, and you may choose friends to join us."

A pang of longing tugged at my heart as I realized the absence of companions to share in the joyous occasion. Despite my royal status, the solitude of my position weighed heavily on me, a fact that lingered as we concluded our meal.

After lunch, seeking solace in the tranquility of the palace garden, I wandered amidst the fragrant blooms and verdant foliage. The gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of birds provided a soothing backdrop to my contemplations.

Finding respite beneath the shade of a sprawling apple tree, I lost myself in the pages of a captivating book, the words transporting me to distant lands and realms of imagination. The cool breeze carried the scent of blossoms, wrapping me in a cocoon of serenity as I immersed myself in the tale.

Suddenly, a rustling above caught my attention, and to my surprise, a boy of my age tumbled from the branches, a red apple clutched in his hand.

"Ouch! That hurt my back," he winced, rubbing his hip as he regained his footing, a mischievous glint in his emerald eyes.

Startled yet intrigued, I inquired, "Who are you, and how did you find your way into our kingdom?"

Our eyes met, and in that fleeting moment, the world seemed to still as his gaze held a depth that belied his youth. His eyes, a verdant hue reminiscent of precious gemstones, exuded a magnetic charm that drew me in.

Breaking the silence, he quirked an eyebrow and inquired, "Do I disturb you, fair lady?"

Asserting my royal authority, I replied with a blend of formality and curiosity, "Do not be impertinent to a princess, stranger. It is I who must inquire as to your presence in our kingdom and the unauthorized taking of our fruits."

His eyes widened in realization, and with a respectful bow, he introduced himself, "I apologize, Your Highness. I am Prince Caspian Theodore Miéville, second prince of the Kingdom of Glorantha Halla."

Surprised by the unexpected encounter, I probed further, "A prince from Glorantha? What brings you to our realm?"

Their family seldom graces this place, particularly their revered King.