《INFERNAL ALLURE: Chronicles of a Dark Romance》


 CHAPTER 1; Echoes of Fear

    I was physically and mentally exhausted but more importantly, I couldn''t stop running. I ran through the woods as if my life depended on it-actually, it did. Every single second counted. My once-pretty red dress was torn and tattered, feeling like rags against my body, but it was the least of my problems. My green eyes blended with the forest like a predator stalking it''s prey, as I sprinted through it. Sweat rolled down my skin, trickling from my chin and sliding between my chest.


    The memory of my mother¡¯s cold gaze fueled my steps. Her hatred wasn¡¯t just words¡ªit had teeth, and it had driven me into this nightmare.


    As I dashed between the towering trees, my breaths came in fast, shallow gasps. The forest was dense, the trees creating a dark, twisting maze that seemed to go on forever. Branches scraped against my arms, and thorns pricked my skin. I could feel the pain, but I couldn''t stop running . I had to keep moving, to keep running until I was sure I was safe.How could a mother, seek the life of her very own daughter. I still couldn''t understand her intentions, no matter how hard I tried.My heart raced, not just from the physical exertion but from the fear that gnawed at me.


    The forest around me was alive with a symphony of rustling leaves, chirping birds, and the distant gurgle of a hidden stream, but it offered no comfort. The beauty of nature couldn''t mask the danger that lurked in these woods.


    Every shadow seemed to hide a potential threat, and every rustle of leaves made my heart jump, but compared to my mother, the forest seemed like a gentle place to live. I continued to run until I entered a vast field and fell. It wasn''t that I was out of danger or didn''t want to run anymore but I could no longer move. I didn''t get the chance to eat the delicious porridge Irene had prepared, and now all my energy was gone. There''s a limit to everything and I guess I had reached mine. It was already dusk. I''ve been running throughout the day and I haven''t eaten a bite of anything. Apart from the fact that I had no energy to keep running, my legs were far too worn out to move another step. ''I don''t believe they could have followed me all the way down here'', I whispered to myself.Unable to move I sat on the grass covering the field. I put my hands on the grass to support myself from falling but instead of the soft texture of grass, I felt something liquid.I brought my hand up to see what it was. I was surprised to see my hand covered in crimson blood."Blood? but I''m not bleeding, so who''s blood could it be?" I asked myself.I turned around and screamed, horrified by the sight before me. My heart ached as I attempted to process the sheer scale of the tragedy that lay before me. The sight immediately reminded me of Irene. The field was a macabre theatre. Fear, cold and palpable, clung to me like a second skin.There were dead bodies all over the field and all of them had one thing in common, they wore armor. They were all soldier knights. Judging by how fresh their blood was, I concluded that a battle was fought here not long ago and it was a gruesome one. ¡®I knew the battle-field was no place for the weak hearted, but this many dead bodies?¡¯ It''ll be all over if they caught me.


    Just then, I felt a presence behind me, I turned and found a soldier staring right into my eyes. He must have heard my scream from earlier. His uniform was different which led me to the conclusion that he was from the opposing party that won the battle. He then started to bombard me with questions."Hey you! ....who the hell are you and what are you doing here all by yourself ? You''re a spy aren''t you?" From the soldier¡¯s point of view, I was gathering information and was ready to send it to their opposing party so that they could be ambushed. How do I explain that he got it all wrong? and that I was innocent?


    "Stand down, Starlion." A voice, unlike any I had ever heard, seductive and soft suddenly cut through the tense atmosphere. I turned to see who had spoken, and all hell broke loose at what I saw. As I gazed upon him, my heart began to pound so hard it hurt. It was pounding with fear, I couldn''t understand why I was afraid of him. The man was as handsome as words could go. It was as if he was sent down to earth redefine the concept of beauty. Not that I haven''t seen handsome men before, where I''m from, almost all the men were handsome, it was rare to call someone ugly, but this man was in a class of his own, he wasn''t just handsome, he was beautiful. That was not all, there was something strange about him, something I couldn''t quite put my finger on. All my instincts were telling to stay as far away from him as I could.


    I didn¡¯t escape one monster to fall into the hands of another. Or had I?


    His attire, unlike the battle-worn armor of the soldiers around him, spoke to his unique status. He wore a dark, flowing cloak that billowed around him like a shadowy shroud, adding an air of mystery to his already captivating presence. Beneath the cloak, his garments were rich and opulent, adorned with intricate patterns that spoke of a refined taste. It was clear that he was no ordinary soldier; people like him used to visit my mother most of the time, so I immediately knew that he was a figure of authority and power. Unlike the soldiers covered in blood and dirt marking their victory, he had no blood stain or dirt on him. ''How can a person be so neat and clean.'' I asked myself.


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    "What kind of spy has bruises all over their body and wears torn dress." He spoke again."I apologize, Your Majesty , I thought she was sent to infiltrate our camp and gather information" Starlion said, his voice quivering with subservience. The soldier who was ready to murder me, was now terrified?


    As he finally stood before me, I awaited his words with a mixture of trepidation and fear.My heart, didn''t slow down, it was as if, he had authority over my very existence.


    The soldier, who had initially confronted me with anger, now cowered in fear as he approached. "Let her be," he commanded, none of the soldiers around approached us, instead, they were moving backwards. It was as if they were terrified of him, and would do anything just to stay away from him. I didn''t understand why his own soldiers would act like that around him.


    With a reluctant nod, Starlion retreated his footsteps.He now stood before me, extending his hand with a grace that seemed otherworldly. His palm was soft as foam yet as firm as steel, I took it and stood up.


    "One look at you," he spoke, his voice a velvet whisper, "and I can tell you''ve been to hell and back. Your appearance tells a story of hardship and resilience, not that I care. How should I put this, I find you fascinating, such bizarre skin colour. Hmm. How about you come with me?" He said touching his chin.


    His offer hung in the air, a tantalizing proposition that left me torn between uncertainty and the allure of his enigmatic presence. I had no idea who he was or what he wanted, but in that moment, he seemed like the only anchor of safety I had. He may be a bad person but I know someone worse.


    My eyes swept across the vast expanse, taking in the lifeless bodies of fallen soldiers, each one lying in their own pool of crimson blood. It was a scene of unimaginable horror.


    "Did you do this?" I asked pointing to the dead bodies. I don''t know why I asked but I did.


    "Yes." He replied bluntly without any expression on his face. It was as if killing was part of his daily routine. I felt a shiver run down my spine the second time as I stammered out another question, my voice trembling like a fragile leaf in the wind. Meanwhile the soldiers where suffocating on the side lines with looks that said ¡®please just hurry and get this over with, I want to breathe'' their reactions made me wonder if he was one of the tyrant rulers who abused their power.


    "A-Are you a b-bad person?"


    He turned his penetrating gaze upon me once more, and the weight of his presence felt suffocating."May I ask what your name is?" He asked looking directly at me.


    "Majesty, my name is Majesty" I replied, looking at anywhere but his eyes.¡°Majesty, as of this moment, you''re face-to-face with the King of Persia.¡± He said and I quickly bowed my head.¡°Your Majesty¡± I greeted still looking down.¡°You can call me Lord Draven,¡± he said, and his soldiers looked at each other shocked.


    "Well then Majesty, I''m not a good person if that is what you wanted to hear," he replied, his voice a low, haunting murmur. A smile danced around the corners of his lips. It was a smile that made me feel uncomfortable. I wondered what was going to happen to me. Had I jumped from the frying pan into the fire?


    "I don''t just go around butchering people unless they ask me to." The admission was chilling, and I couldn''t help but believe every word he spoke. There was an aura of danger around him, an aura that was impossible to ignore.


    In that moment, a rush of conflicting emotions surged within me. Fear, yes, fear, I was afraid of him.I had to make a decision. With his smile still haunting my thoughts, I weighed the options before me, knowing that whatever choice I made, it would come with consequences that I could scarcely imagine. No matter what, I couldn''t refuse his offer, who knows, he could even kill me before my mother got the chance to do it.


    "And just so we''re clear, I won''t kill you if you refuse. I don''t like the idea of taking the life of someone unarmed."


    "Wait, how did you know what I was thinking?" I asked with heightened curiosity.


    "Pfft. Please, I''m incapable of such things. It was written all over your face."


    He told me that he wouldn''t hurt me if I said no to his offer, but I couldn''t shake the question in my head: where would I go if I refused? While I struggled with my decision, a bunch of soldiers came out of the forest and stood in the middle of the field.¡°I''ve finally found you, Majesty¡± One of the soldiers said pointing his sword at me.


    My heart raced as I recognized their uniforms. They were soldiers from my mother''s kingdom, and it was clear they had been following me all along. A mix of fear, anger, and desperation flooded over me, overwhelming my emotions.¡°My mother really does want me dead, doesn''t she?¡± I mused.


    How in the world did I get myself in this mess?. I couldn''t help but think back to two days ago when I slept in between the trunks of a big tree."

 CHAPTER 2; A New Home

    FLASHBACK


    "Mom, look!" the little boy exclaimed, pointing at a girl with pale-chocolate skin peacefully sleeping between the trunks of a tree, wearing a tattered, dirty red dress.


    The boy turned to his mother, seeking her approval. "Mom, should I wake her up?" he asked, innocence reflecting in his wide eyes.


    His mother paused for a moment before responding, "No, wait. I''ll do it." With gentle steps, she walked towards me. She tapped my shoulder ever so softly to awaken me from my slumber.


    Startled, I hastily opened my eyes, scanning my surroundings for any potential threats. Fear immediately gripped me as my instincts kicked into high gear. I needed to ensure I  was not in danger, did they follow me all the way here? Sensing my apprehension, the woman quickly reassured me with a comforting and soothing voice. "Please, darling, don''t freak out. It''s just me and my son." The boy, trembling, hid behind his mother, clinging to her dress for safety.


    Realizing the effect my sudden awakening had on the boy, I felt a pang of guilt. "Please forgive me," I blurted out, my voice filled with genuine remorse. "I didn''t mean to startle you."


    "It''s okay," the woman replied with understanding in her eyes. "By the way, what are you doing here, and why were you sleeping on the ground?" Her curiosity overflowed, and she showered me with questions.


    Her inquiries ignited a storm of memories within me. I recalled the depths of what had happened. My mother had exiled me. At the very least, I expected her to tell me the reason she was sending me away from the place I had known my entire life, but no. She told me nothing. The only thing she  told me was that she didn''t need me anymore and that I should leave. I had no where to go and neither did I have anyone to run to. I decided that, just this once, I''ll disobey her, I''ll stay even if she killed me. Where does she expect me to go? I asked myself.


    Caught in the whirlwind of my thoughts, the woman noticed my distant gaze. Sensing my need for guidance, she softly called out to bring me back to the present. "Hello," she said, her voice filled with compassion.


    My mind snapped back to reality, and I managed to respond, "Yes." The connection with her warmth was enough to anchor me in the here and now.


    Instantly recognizing her own inadvertent intrusion, the woman apologized. "Sorry, it was rude of me to ask. Let''s go home and find something to eat first. Afterward, you can tell me what happened."


    Grateful for her kindness and recognizing her genuine concern, I nodded in agreement. She gently helped me up as I tried to dust out the sand particles from my body. Having ever known my mother''s cruelty, I was cautious. But having no where else to go, I decided to go with her for the mean time all the while never letting my guard down.


    "Follow me" she said and held the hand of her son as they led the way.


    The forest was dense and wild, with an earthy aroma that filled the air as we made our way to their noble home. The trees towered above us, stretching towards the sky with gnarled branches that reached out like fingers seeking the sun. The canopy formed a natural green umbrella overhead, dappling the sunlight into mottled patterns of light and shade that danced on the forest floor.


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    The ground was soft underfoot, carpeted with a thick layer of fallen leaves and moss that cushioned our steps. Tangled vines snaked their way around tree trunks, creating natural ropes for us to hold onto as we traversed the challenging terrain. Small animals darted between the trees - birds chirped in the canopy above, squirrels skittered across the branches, and rabbits hopped through the underbrush, all busily going about their day.


    As we made our way through the thick foliage, the forest changed around us, revealing new landscapes at every turn. Streams bubbled and babbled, their cool, clear waters weaving their way through the trees. Noises echoed in the woods - woodpeckers tapping, frogs croaking, and the occasional rustle of leaves that signaled some creature beyond our sight. Wildflowers bloomed in the meadows, their colorful petals providing a stark contrast to the brown and green of the trees, edible mushrooms all around us.


    Despite the feeling of wildness and untamed beauty, there was an air of peacefulness that surrounded us, as if the forest was watching over us, welcoming us with open arms. It seemed as though every step we took drew us deeper into the heart of the forest. And, as we approached their house, it was as though we had been gifted with a rare glimpse into nature''s inner sanctum, a view of the beauty and majesty of the natural world.


    Their house was a humble abode, yet exuded a certain charm that invited one to feel at home. It stood nestled within nature, its walls woven with the natural materials that adorned it. Stepping inside, I was struck by the cleanliness and organization that embraced the space. Every object had its designated place, creating a sense of order, harmony and serenity. "My name is Irene, and this is my son Enoch." She said pointing at her son who was busily searching through his toys selection. "May I ask what your name is?" She asked me with a polite tone. "Please you can call me Majesty" I replied.


    Irene, with a gentle smile, directed her son to fill the bathtub, instructing him to fetch warm water from the kitchen. Enoch eagerly scurried off, an eager helper in his mother''s quest to restore my well-being. The sound of his footsteps echoed through the house as Irene knelt beside me. I wanted to ask why she was helping someone she just met but decided to keep quiet and see how things play out.


    "Well, Majesty, how would you like to take a warm bath." Without waiting for my approval, she held my hand pulled me towards the bathroom. "First, let''s get you out of that dirty dress," she spoke softly, her voice laced with compassion and reassurance. Even so Her kindness was too good to be true. I still had my guard up.


    With delicate movements, Irene gently guided me to undress, assisting me in removing the tattered, dirt-stained fabric that clung to my body. Her hands caressed my shoulders, offering comfort as I revealed my vulnerability.


    As the bathtub filled with warm water, inviting steam swirling above, Irene''s soothing voice accompanied the comforting sound. "The water is ready, dear," she whispered, her voice carrying a melody that only the heart can truly understand. Her touch guided me towards the tub.


    Taking great care, Irene supported me as I lowered myself into the blissful warmth of the water. The moment my body submerged, a sigh of relief escaped my lips, as though the water cradled my weary soul, gently washing away the stains and scars of my past. All the while, I couldn''t shake off the feeling that I might be putting them in danger, I had to leave if I wanted them to stay safe, there is no telling when my mother''s guards will find me. She exiled me, and as if that wasn''t enough, she sent her soldiers to make sure I was dead.


    With utmost tenderness, Irene took a soft cloth and began to cleanse my skin, her movements fluid and attentive. As she gently washed away the dirt and grime, I could feel a weight lifting from within, as if the cleansing waters were symbolic of the rebirth that I so desperately sought. I should enjoy this hospitality while it lasts, I doubt I''ll find it anywhere else. After careful consideration, I decided to give her the benefit of the doubt. If she wanted me dead, she would''ve killed me while I was sleeping between the trunks.


    With each stroke of the cloth, she ignited a glimmer of hope within me, a belief that I was deserving of care and love, something I never had from the woman I called my mother. It brought a tear to my eyes, if only my mom was a little of what Irene was, that would have been enough for me.


    The water grew cooler, signaling the end of our gentle bath. With great care, Irene wrapped me in a soft towel, enfolding me in a warm embrace.

 CHAPTER 3; MEMORIES UNTOLD: Exiled By Blood I

    "Try this on, honey," Irene said as she handed me one of her dresses. I nodded in acknowledgement and eagerly took the dress from her. As I held it up, I noticed the intricate lace details that adorned the bodice and the flowing chiffon fabric that cascaded down to the floor. The dress had a vibrant colour, a beautiful shade of crimson that seemed to sparkle under the light. It was designed with elegance and sophistication.


    Curiosity and excitement filled the air as I slipped into the dress, feeling the soft fabric embrace my body. It was a perfect fit, accentuating my figure in all the right places. My mother never allowed me to wear  dresses like this, so I was thrilled to finally try one on.


    "You look heavenly," Irene exclaimed with a warm, genuine smile. Her words resonated with pure admiration. She paused for a moment, looking me straight in the eyes. "I''ve never seen anyone with such a unique skin colour before. Your flawless chocolate skin is a gift from Mother Nature herself. It''s as if you were created to embody beauty in its purest form.¡± I could feel her words touch my heart, and I couldn''t help but smile back at her, grateful for her words. My mother always said she couldn''t stand the sight of me, so I wasn''t sure how to react to her words.


    With a gentle gesture, Irene invited me to have a seat and wait for her. The anticipation grew as we sat together, with Enoch joining us at the table. I for one couldn''t wait as I was literally starving. I''ve been on the run all day trying to get away from my mother, as a result, I didn''t have time to stuff my face.


    Enoch appeared to be anxiously awaiting the arrival of the food as well. The delicious aromas that started to fill the room only heightened our excitement and I for one, wanted to know how it would taste like. The tantalizing scent of sizzling spices danced through the air, promising a culinary experience.


    Finally, the moment arrived as Irene gracefully served the food. It was a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The centrepiece was a plate of mouth-watering rice and tenderly cooked chicken. The vibrant orange hue of the rice was a reflection of the flavours that laid within. Each grain glistened with the perfect balance of aromatic spices, infused with love and care.


    On the side, a colourful salad adorned the plate, filled with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers. The freshness of the vegetables was enhanced by a tangy dressing that added a burst of flavour to every bite. The combination of textures and flavours created a symphony on the plate, enticing us with its visual appeal.


    As we indulged in the delicate flavours, a sense of peacefulness enveloped the room. The harmonious clinks of cutlery echoed in the air.


    The atmosphere shifted from anticipation to pure bliss, as my worries and troubles melted away with every mouthful. I knew the food could be poisoned as I refused to believe that someone  could be this nice to a total stranger, even so I would die happy. The food was just that good.


    As the night unfolded, we savoured each morsel, cherishing the flavours that danced upon our palates. It filled us with a sense of gratitude and joy, reminding us of the simplest pleasures in life that bring us the greatest happiness.


    I sat under the bright moonlight outside with a lot of things going through my head, after we finished eating.  Irene joined me shortly afterwards.


    ''''What''s on your mind?'''' she asked, her voice filled with genuine curiosity. I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts. Little Enoch must be asleep by now, I thought. It was time to share my story, the truth behind my presence in this unfamiliar place but, I needed to ask some questions first.¡°Why did you help me? you brought me to your home without knowing who I was.¡± I asked the question that has been on my mind for so long.¡°All I did was give you food and clothes, I don''t see the big idea. Though if you need a reason, then maybe because you remind me of my daughter. My husband was a gambling addict. He used our daughter as a collateral in one of his gambling games which he lost, resulting in the loss of our only daughter. Up till now, I don''t even know where she is.¡± She explained.


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    ¡°I''m sorry, I didn''t know.¡± With how my mother treated me, I didn''t find it strange for a father to gamble his own daughter away. But, I knew that wasn''t how Irene felt. With her kind nature, I knew she must have loved her with all her heart.¡°What was her name?¡± ¡°Christine, that''s her name. If she is still alive, which I believe she is, she''ll be the same age as you. Enough about me, can you tell what has been bothering you?¡± she tried to change the subject but couldn''t hide the expression on her face.


    "I guess Little Enoch is asleep then," I said, trying to shift the focus for a moment. Irene responded with a nod, sensing that there was something significant I wanted to share. She patiently waited, her beautiful scarlet eyes reflecting the moon''s gentle glow.


    "So can you tell me what you were doing sleeping under that tree?" she finally asked, her voice laced with a mix of curiosity and concern. Her genuine care and acceptance thus far made me feel comfortable and safe enough to open up about my past. After a little thought, I decided it was okay to tell her.


    With a shaky breath, I gathered my courage and began, "My name is Majesty, and I''m a princess from the kingdom of Runevale." The words hung in the air, a moment of suspense, as Irene absorbed the weight of my confession. She turned to look at me with wide eyes.


    "Runevale?" she repeated, almost in a whisper. "The princess of Runevale?"


    I saw something flicker in her expression¡ªshock, recognition, and something else I couldn''t quite name.


    "You''ve heard of me?" I asked hesitantly.


    Everyone in Runevale knew about you," she said. "The princess locked away in the palace... the one the Queen hated. People whispered about it, but no one really knew why. Honestly, this is my first time seeing you in person.¡±


    I lowered my gaze. I had always known people talked, but hearing it out loud made my chest tighten.


    Irene sighed. "I never thought I¡¯d get the chance to  meet you, and definitely not here," she muttered.¡°How do you know about me? about Runevale?¡± I asked still in shock.¡°Well that is because, I was born there and had lived there all my life until...¡± she hesitated for a moment, as though she had some unpleasant memories. It was the first her smile faded away since I saw her.


    ¡°Until?¡± I asked unable to contain my curiosity.She sighed again before continuing.


    "As I told you before, my husband was a gambler," she said, her voice filled with pain. "He lost everything¡ªour money, our only daughter, our home. I stayed with him, hoping he¡¯d change. But then... he did something I could never forgive."


    Her hands clenched into fists. I was surprised? I didn''t think she was capable of getting angry.


    "Do you know why I stayed with him even after he gambled our daughter away?" she asked, her voice heavy with an emotion I couldn''t quite place.


    I shook my head, unsure of what to say.


    She exhaled deeply, her fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns in the dirt beside her. "My mother owed the queen a great debt¡ªone so large she could never hope to repay it. When she died, that burden fell on my shoulders."


    Irene''s lips pressed into a thin line, and she pulled her shawl tighter around herself. "The queen, in all her ruthless generosity, gave me a deadline. A very short one. Either I found a way to pay, or I would suffer the consequences."


    Her voice wavered, but she quickly steadied herself. "My husband knew there was no honest way to gather such a fortune in such a short amount of time. So, he turned to gambling, thinking¡ªhoping¡ªhe could win enough to save me." She let out a humorless laugh, shaking her head. "But luck was never on his side. The more he gambled, the more he lost, until he had nothing left. Not even our daughter."

 CHAPTER 4; MEMORIES UNTOLD: Exiled By Blood II

    A heavy silence fell between us, the weight of her words sinking deep into my chest.


    "You could have left," I said softly, though I already knew her answer.


    She smiled, but it was a sad, tired thing. "How could I? He was doing it all for me. How could I abandon him when he was drowning because of my debt?"


    Irene let out a slow breath, her gaze still lost in the vast night sky. The moon bathed her in silver light, but the sadness in her eyes remained untouched.


    "If someone had to leave, it should have been him. Most men would have."


    I hesitated before asking,"Then why didn''t he? "


    She pulled her knees to her chest, resting her chin against them. "Do you know why?" She turned to me then, her expression unreadable.


    I shook my head.


    "Because he loved me," she said simply. "Not the kind of love in fairytales or songs-his love was desperate, reckless, and flawed. He wasn''t a good man, but he was mine. And in his own broken way, he wanted to save me."


    Her fingers curled into the fabric of her dress as if grasping onto something long gone. "I was the only thing in his life that wasn''t cruel to him. Maybe that''s why he couldn''t let me go. He wanted to be my hero, even when he had nothing left to give."


    Irene exhaled a bitter laugh. "But love doesn''t pay debts."


    "He gambled away our son."


    My heart stopped. Not from the shock of gambling his son but from how far he was willing to go for her.


    "He... did?" I whispered. Honestly I didn''t think he''ll try to gamble his own child a second time, even if it was for the one he loved.


    Irene let out a shaky breath.


    "He lost the bet, and the man he owed wanted my child as payment. The moment I found out, I took my son and ran. I couldn''t let them take him. So, we hid in this forest, far away from everyone. You''ve heard my side, now, let me hear yours, Majesty. Tell me everything, after you are done, there is something I want to show you." I sighed, trying to process everything Irene told me and wondering what she wanted to show me. I started from the beginning again.


    "I was a princess in Runevale, but the title meant nothing. The fine dresses, the jewels-they were just decorations on an empty life. My mother, the queen, never loved me. She never hugged me, never smiled at me. When she did speak to me, it was never with warmth.


    ''I want you to look your best. I''m expecting an important guest today.''


    That was the closest thing to care she ever showed, yet she never once looked me in the eyes.


    Other children grew up with bedtime stories and laughter. My nights were filled with silence-except for my own quiet sobs. I cried myself to sleep more times than I could count, while my mother entertained her guests in the grand halls.


    The only thing that made it bearable was Michael. He was the son of a high-ranking official, and he would sneak into my room at night to tell me stories about the world outside. He spoke of bustling markets, lively festivals, and sunlit gardens-things I had never seen with my own eyes."


    "I never knew the princess was going through all that," Irene said, her voice heavy. "I knew the queen was cruel, but to her own daughter?"


    "Every meal in the palace was like a performance. The long dining table, the golden plates-it was all meaningless. My mother''s cold gaze made every bite hard to swallow.


    Birthdays weren''t special either. I''d hear of children celebrating with cakes, gifts, and love. But my birthdays were just another day-except for my mother''s reminders."


    "You''re turning eight tomorrow. You''re no longer a child.""Tomorrow is your fifteenth birthday. Be grateful you''ve lived this long."


    That was it. No celebration, no warmth-just a reminder that my life was only tolerated, not cherished.


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    The palace was grand, but to me, it was a prison. Every polished floor, every towering mirror only reflected my loneliness back at me. Even the servants, who barely spoke to me, had pity in their eyes.


    Not even the gardens, my only refuge, could escape my mother''s presence. The flowers bloomed beautifully, but somehow, they always seemed dull in her shadow.""Even if she didn''t like me, I was okay, at least I could still see her," I continued, my voice filled with a mix of sadness and resignation.


    "One evening, she summoned me to the grand throne room, where she sat regally upon a magnificent golden throne. The throne is adorned with intricate carvings, crafted with expert precision. The golden surface shimmers in the light, casting a warm, inviting glow. The craftsmanship is flawless, with each detail carefully etched, showcasing the talent and artistry of its creators.


    The backrest of the throne rises tall and proud, with a series of graceful curves and embellishments that add to its enchanting beauty. Delicate patterns and motifs inspired by nature and history are etched into the golden surface, lending an air of mystique to the piece. The room was adorned with opulent tapestries and sparkling chandeliers, reflective of the extravagant life within the castle walls.


    " Your Majesty," I bowed low as I entered the room, the echo of my footsteps fading into the vast silence. The grand chamber seemed to shrink in her presence, as if the very air bent to her will. My mother, Runevale-named after the kingdom she ruled with an iron will-was the embodiment of beauty, power, and something far more terrifying.


    Despite the years that should have touched her, she remained untouched by time, her beauty so flawless it defied reason. If perfection had a face, it would be hers. She wasn''t just beautiful; she was otherworldly, as if nature itself had sculpted her with the finest precision. Her long, raven-black hair cascaded in waves down her back, thick and silken, as if woven from shadows themselves.


    Then there were her eyes-Infernal Garnet. A shade so deep, so impossibly rich, they seemed to burn like embers in the dim light. They were hypnotic, unsettling, and yet, they held no warmth. No love. Just an abyss of restrained fury.


    She sat draped in dark robes of purple and black, woven with intricate silver embroidery that shimmered with every movement. The contrast between her pale, almost porcelain skin and the darkness of her attire made her seem even more ethereal, a specter of elegance and danger. Even in stillness, she radiated power.


    She smiled, and it was beautiful. Terrifyingly so. A smile that had led kings to ruin and made the bravest men bow.


    "I want you to leave, be gone by tomorrow morning," she stated bluntly, her voice sharp and as cold as ever. Sometimes I wondered how one so beautiful could be so cruel and cold. The simplicity of her words cut through the air, leaving a lingering silence in their wake.


    "Where to, mothe.... I mean, Your Highness?" I asked, trying to mask the hurt in my voice with a semblance of composure. Deep down, I knew her answer would be just as devoid of empathy as her previous words.


    "Who knows," she sneered dismissively, her gaze drifting past me as if I were nothing more than a mere inconvenience. "I''m fed up with seeing your repulsive face every single day. You have nothing more to offer me, and I don''t want anything from you so I suggest that we part ways."


    Her words pierced my heart like a thousand daggers, the weight of her disappointment crashing down on me. As the reality of her decision settled in, I felt a mix of emotions rise within me. She was the queen and her word was the law, if she decides to exile me then that''ll be all, no one could change that.


    "It''s because you''re my daughter, that''s why I''m giving you up to tomorrow morni..."


    "What kind of mother exiles her own child and calls it generosity or kindness?" I didn''t make her finish her sentence before I exploded. If she was going to exile me then I might as well release all the pent-up feelings I''ve been suppressing all these years. After all, she was never the type of woman to joke around, if she said it, she meant it.


    "Throughout my entire life, you''ve acted as though you''re been forced to raise me, all that time, I never question you, nor did I stand against you. You never allowed me to go out, I don''t know any other place besides this palace, and now you want me to go away? WHERE TO? have I ever told that I hate you? If I haven''t, then here it comes.. I took a deep breath before shouting."I HATE YOU MOTHER. I wish you were dea...""Shut up or you''ll die were you stand" she interrupted me with a soft tone before I could finish. And like I said, if she said it, she meant it. If she was going to exile me, what else couldn''t she do?


    "I''ll repeat myself, you have until tomorrow morning, if you''re still here by then, I''ll kill you. You are now dismissed." She said with a smile, her face was void of any emotions.


    "Before I go, I need to ask you a question your Majesty. Am I really your daughter, Even with all the cruelty you''ve shown me , I thought the worst you could do was marry me off for political gain, but to threaten my life?" My voice trembled as I spoke and she scoffed."Fine, I guess it wouldn''t hurt to let you know the truth." I swallowed hard, saying in my head, ''finally, she''ll tell me the truth about my birth'' or so I thought.


    "Yes, you are my daughter -though I feel ashamed to even acknowledge it."I flinched, but she continued, her voice growing sharper."You call me cruel? Tell me, What do you know of cruelty?" Just then, I saw my mother frown, it was my first time seeing her angry. It''s different from those times she looked at me with disgust."When did I starve you? When did I throw you onto the streets? Do you think cruelty is merely the absence of bedtime stories and motherly embraces?" She scoffed, her expression filled with contempt. "Mind you, the Queen does not have the luxury of sentiment. And just when I taught I couldn''t get more disappointed in you, you proved me wrong." My fists clenched, but I forced myself to stay composed. "Then Why not just marry me off? If I meant so little to you, why not use me as bargaining chip like I always assumed you would?"Her lips curled into something between disdain and amusement. I had planned to. But not for power. I already have all the power I need. You were an eyesore, Just marrying you off would''ve been enough."

 CHAPTER 5; MEMORIES UNTOLD: Exiled By Blood III?

    Just know that if you are still in Runevale by sun rise tomorrow, I will kill you myself.¡± She concluded. "So, what did you do?" Irene asked, her curiosity evident.


    "I didn¡¯t go anywhere," I admitted. "I didn¡¯t know what to do or where to go, so I just stayed. If she wanted to kill me, she was free to do it. She was the one who brought me into this world in the first place." My voice was steady, but the weight of those words lingered between us. The truth was, I had already accepted that my own mother could get rid of me so easily. She had even threatened it.


    Irene''s brows furrowed. "Then how did you survive?"


    I took a slow breath. "The next morning, when my mother saw I was still there, she decided to end it. She meant it¡ªthere was no hesitation. But Michael got in the way." The memory of it flickered in my mind, sharp and unrelenting. "I was ready to die. But then I saw him fighting the guards for me, risking his life like it meant nothing, and suddenly, I couldn''t just stand there and let it happen. If I had stayed, he would have been punished. Maybe even killed. So I ran."


    Irene listened intently, her expression unreadable in the dim light. The silence stretched before she finally spoke.


    She exhaled, almost as if she had been holding her breath. "It must have been terrifying."


    "It was," I admitted.


    "And after you ran?"


    "I thought I''d escaped, but the soldiers came after me. It wasn¡¯t surprising¡ªmy mother never makes empty threats. They chased me all day until I found this forest. I thought I could lose them here, so I hid between the roots of a large tree. I must¡¯ve fallen asleep because the next thing I knew, you were waking me up."


    Irene absorbed my words, her gaze softening. "How old are you now?"


    "Eighteen. I turned eighteen two days ago¡ªthe day my mother."


    A shadow crossed Irene¡¯s face. "But if she already cast you out, why were the soldiers still after you?"


    I let out a hollow laugh. "Because exile wasn¡¯t enough. The moment I fled, I went from being banished to being a target. She said if I was still in Runevale by morning, she¡¯d kill me. And my mother never goes back on her word."


    For a moment, neither of us spoke. Then, without warning, Irene pulled me into a tight embrace. I stiffened, caught off guard, but she only held me closer. "And here I was, thinking no one could have it worse than me." She said, her eyes teary.


    I swallowed the lump in my throat. "It''s alright, Irene. I''m alright now."


    The words felt like a lie. But for tonight, in this moment, I needed them to be true.


    She then bent towards me and gave me a peck on my cheek. "Happy birthday sweetie." She said and I smiled. Breaking the silence that hung in the air, Irene asked with a quiver in her voice, "Do you think the soldiers are still pursuing you?" Her worry was palpable, breaking through the calmness we had tried to create.


    "I cannot say for certain if they had returned to the kingdom yet," I replied, my voice filled with uncertainty. "But given the relentless pursuit they demonstrated throughout the day, it wouldn''t be surprising if they still had their sights on me. That''s why I''ve made the decision to leave tomorrow at noon."


    "Majesty, you remember I said there was something I wanted to show you?" I nodded, wondering what it could be. "There is something you must know first." She continued.


    "Don¡¯t you find it strange that there are fewer than twenty old people in the entire kingdom of Runevale?"


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    I hesitated, unsure how to respond. I had barely stepped foot outside the palace, so I couldn''t say I had noticed. But now that I thought about it, even within the palace walls, there were no elderly people. And my mother¡ªshe looked more like my older sister than my parent.


    Something wasn¡¯t right.


    My brows knitted together. "Now that you mention it¡­ you don¡¯t look that old at all. What¡¯s going on?"


    I hadn''t truly looked at Irene until now. There was something almost timeless about her. Her deep scarlet eyes held a quiet warmth, their rich hue shifting subtly in the light. Her chestnut hair cascaded past her shoulders in soft waves. Her sun-kissed bronze skin bore only the faintest traces of age, yet there was a youthful elegance about her¡ªan ageless beauty that felt almost unnatural.


    She sighed, glancing up at the night sky as if searching for the right words. "Everyone in Runevale is born with the ability to manipulate nature in some way. How much they can control depends on their strength and their lineage."


    I blinked. "Wait¡ªmanipulate nature? Like magic?"


    "In a way, yes," she replied.


    I tilted my head, curiosity stirring within me. "Then why haven''t I seen anyone use it before?"


    Irene hesitated for a moment before giving me a small smile. "Perhaps it would be easier to show you."


    She lifted her hand, fingers curling slightly as she murmured something under her breath.


    "V???th v?r¨­ ?a?r ?a?n, M?l? ??l?, v¨¥lh ?r??n¡ªM?r?th ??lv?n: Zh?t¨¦th ?¨¹v?l¨©!" (Pronounced: "Vah-reth veh-roh shair rah-en, My-lo shel-ah, velh o-ray-en¡ªMohr-ath Shel-ven: Zhah-teth Shu-veh-lee!" | Meaning: "Wilted roots shall rise once more, Mend the flesh, heal the core¡ªPrimal Genesis: Everlasting Bloom!")


    A soft, golden light shimmered around her fingertips before washing over me like a gentle breeze. The moment it touched my skin, a refreshing sensation spread through me, like cool water on a scorching day. My exhaustion vanished in an instant¡ªmy aching muscles relaxed, and my mind, clouded with fatigue, became as clear as a summer sky.


    I gasped, sitting up straighter. "What was that?"


    Irene chuckled at my reaction. "It¡¯s a simple rejuvenation incantation. You looked like you needed it."


    "But¡­ I¡¯ve never heard those words before." I frowned. "What language was that?"


    "??r¨¥???h," she answered smoothly. (Sheh-REH-leeth). "It¡¯s an ancient language, known only to Runevale¡¯s people, though, not everyone in Runevale knows of it. We use it to connect with nature and channel our abilities."


    My fingers curled into the fabric of my dress as I processed this revelation. Runevale had its own secret language? One tied to magic?


    But if their powers were so useful, why had no one been using them?


    I met Irene¡¯s gaze. "Then why did my mother forbid you from using your abilities?" If no one was using ??r¨¥???h, then there could only be one person who made it so.


    Her expression darkened slightly, the warmth in her eyes dimming. "That¡¯s the thing¡ªwe don¡¯t know. It happened the day you were born. One morning, everything was normal, and by nightfall, a royal decree was issued. No one was to use ??r¨¥???h."


    I frowned. "That doesn¡¯t make sense. If people have powers, why would she stop them from using them?"


    Irene let out a slow breath, her eyes flickering with something unreadable. "Most people were displeased, but no one was foolish enough to defy the queen, knowing how powerful she was. Rumors say she once defeated a first shadow (right-hand man of one of the Seven Archdemons¡­)"


    I stiffened. "There are demons? Actual demons?"


    Irene arched a brow. "There are many kinds of beings in this world. I¡¯m surprised the queen kept you in the dark."


    My mind reeled at her words. All my life, my mother had never once spoken of demons or anything remotely supernatural. But now, Irene spoke of them as if they were common knowledge.


    She met my gaze, her expression unwavering. "Let me tell you what I know about demons. Demons are one of the strongest beings I know of. They have structure, power, and a hierarchy that governs their world. At the top are the Seven Archdemons, each ruling over a vast domain of the underworld. They are ancient beings, older than human civilization itself, and their strength is beyond comprehension."


    She paused before continuing, her voice steady. "Directly beneath them are the First Shadows. They are like the right hand of the Archdemons¡ªtheir enforcers, generals, and most trusted subordinates. These demons are nearly as powerful as the Archdemons themselves, carrying out their orders and crushing anything that stands in their way. Below them are the Abyssal Lords, demons of great strength and influence, ruling over lesser demons and commanding their own forces. And then, at the bottom, are the common demons¡ªthe Doomclads, the scavengers, the ones who roam the lands seeking power, destruction, or servitude under stronger beings."


    I listened, absorbing her words, the weight of this revelation settling over me. I had spent my entire life in ignorance, shielded from the truths of the world. But now, the pieces were starting to come together. If my mother had the strength to defeat a First Shadow, then just how powerful was she?

 CHAPTER 6; Ashes of Sanctuary

    Irene¡¯s voice softened. "If you stay here, I can protect you."


    But I refused. If everything she said was true, then I couldn¡¯t stay. If my mother found out Irene was helping me, she would be in danger.


    "I can protect you if you stay," Irene repeated, her voice firm with quiet determination. "You don¡¯t have to do this alone."


    I shook my head. "If my mother finds out, she''ll come after you too. I won¡¯t put you and Enoch in danger."


    I could see the conflict in her eyes, the way her lips parted as if to protest, but the silent determination in my gaze left no room for argument. I had already made my choice.


    Without another word, she pulled me into a tight embrace, her arms trembling slightly as she held me close. The fabric of her nightgown was soft against my skin.


    "I wish things were different," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.


    "If you must really go, then all I can do is give you a guide." Irene¡¯s offer to guide me filled me with a gratitude I couldn¡¯t express. I nodded as she began to explain her plan for my escape, my focus sharpening with every word. Every detail mattered.


    I stole glances at her now and then, showing her I understood, committing each step to memory.


    "You have to head northeast from here, there, you''ll find a kingdom named Persia. You''ll be safe once you blend in with the civilians. Not even your mother''s soldiers can enter another kingdom without a permit. It''s a three-day journey by foot." She explained.


    "Persia," I murmured to myself, the name lingering on my lips. It sounded like a faraway land, but at this point, anywhere beyond the reach of my mother was a safe haven. The thought of embarking on a three-day journey on foot sounded daunting, but Irene''s words had filled me with a renewed sense of hope.


    With those thoughts swirling in my mind, I turned to face Irene, "Thank you, Irene. You''ve been so kind and understanding despite not knowing me before. I don''t know how I can ever repay you."


    Irene gave me a reassuring smile as she said, "I''ll teach you the basics of ??r¨¥???h tomorrow after breakfast, so you can at least protect yourself on your journey."


    As the night gave way to the quietness of the early morning, Irene suggested that we retire for the night. "It''s pretty late, we should get some sleep, it''s a long day tomorrow." She said "She entered the room and I followed. She had only one bed but luckily for us, it was extremely big, big enough for all of us to share. Enoch was already sleeping comfortably on one edge of the bed. Irene joined him and I followed, and soon we were cozied up, with Irene sleeping behind Enoch and me behind her.


    Irene''s words echoed in my head as I watched the ceiling.


    "If someone had to leave, it should have been him. Most men would have."


    I wondered¡ªwould I ever find someone who could love me like that? Someone who would fight for me, stay by my side no matter the cost?


    Just then, my mother¡¯s voice slithered into my thoughts, cold and unrelenting:


    "¡­Honestly, if there were anyone foolish enough to love you, I¡¯d thank them for the favor of taking you off my hands."


    A bitter laugh bubbled up in my throat, but it never left my lips. My fingers curled into fists as a familiar ache settled in my chest.


    I didn''t tell Irene everything. Some things were hard to even say out loud¡ªlike the argument I had with my mother.


    My fists clenched at the memory, but I forced myself to stay composed.


    "Then why not just marry me off?" I had asked her, my voice steady despite the rage boiling inside me. "If I meant so little to you, why not use me as a bargaining chip like I always assumed you would?"


    Her lips curled into something between disdain and amusement.


    "I had planned to. But not for power. I already have all the power I need."


    "Then what stopped you?" I pressed, my voice barely above a whisper, trying to suppress the fury rising within me. "Why didn''t you go through with it?"


    Her eyes darkened as she regained her usual cold composure.


    "Who would want to marry a harlot?"


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    I froze. My breath caught in my throat.


    "Excuse me?"


    She rose from her throne, each step deliberate, her gaze piercing into mine.


    "Did you think I wouldn''t know?"


    My stomach twisted.


    "Michael has been sneaking into your chambers every night. He is twenty. You are eighteen. Tell me, Majesty, do you expect me to believe that nothing happened between the  two of you?"


    My hands trembled at the accusation.


    "You think¡ª?"


    "I know." She cut me off sharply. "You have committed an unchaste act before marriage. A crime punishable by death. If you were anyone else, you would already be executed. But because you are a princess, I am granting you exile."


    Her words rang in my ears, but I barely registered them. My vision blurred, not from tears but from sheer disbelief.


    "If you are still in Runevale by sunrise tomorrow, I will kill you myself."


    She was now standing so close that I could feel her breath against my skin, suffocating me. It was like standing beneath a crushing waterfall, drowning under her sheer presence.


    Her voice echoed in my head.


    "If you are still in Runevale by sunrise tomorrow, I will kill you myself."


    I struggled to breathe as she loomed over me, her presence pressing down like an unrelenting force.


    Finally, I found my voice, my frustration boiling over.


    "How can you even say such a thing?!" My voice cracked, raw with emotion. ¡°Michael only came to share stories of the world beyond these walls¡ªthe world you locked me away from! He spoke of things I have never seen, things I have never heard, because you kept me imprisoned! And now you twist that into something vile?"


    I took a step back, shaking my head.


    "You truly hate me, don''t you?"


    For the first time, my mother didn''t immediately respond.


    And that silence¡ªmore than anything¡ªwas my answer.


    All these thoughts churned in my mind, dragging me into the past, into the pain, until I didn''t even realize when sleep finally took me.


    The morning sun streamed through the window, filling the room with soft light. The warmth gently nudged me awake, pulling me from sleep. I yawned and stretched, blinking away the last bits of drowsiness.


    As my eyes adjusted, I noticed the bed was empty. Irene and Enoch were nowhere in sight. Curious, I swung my legs over the edge and stood up, drawn by the faint sounds coming from outside.


    I followed the noise to the kitchen, where the rich scent of freshly chopped vegetables filled the air. My stomach growled in response. Irene stood at the counter, focused on her task. I watched as she skillfully sliced through the colorful vegetables, moving with ease and precision.


    She glanced up and smiled warmly. "Good morning, Majesty. How are you?"


    "Good morning, Irene," I replied, smiling back. "I''m fine. How about you?"


    Before she could answer, a small voice chimed in.


    "Good morning, big sis!"


    I looked down to see Enoch beaming up at me, his eyes filled with excitement.


    "Big sis?" I repeated, surprised. "I don¡¯t remember when that happened."


    Enoch grinned. "Well, calling you ¡®Sis Majesty¡¯ sounds weird, and just ¡®Majesty¡¯ doesn¡¯t feel right either. So I decided on ¡®big sis.¡¯ But if you don¡¯t like it, I can stop."


    His words made me pause. The title was unexpected, but it felt¡­ nice. A warmth spread through me as I knelt to meet his gaze.


    "I love it," I said softly. "No one¡¯s ever called me that before, and I think it¡¯s perfect."


    I hugged him, holding onto the moment. I had always been my mother¡¯s only child, never knowing what it felt like to have a sibling. But now, being called ''big sis'' felt like something special¡ªlike I belonged to a family, even if it wasn¡¯t by blood.


    I pulled away and turned to Irene. "So, what¡¯s for breakfast?"


    She chuckled. "Our usual soup porridge. But some mushrooms would make it even better."


    I nodded, my mouth watering at the thought. "I haven''t had soup porridge in a while."


    Irene looked at Enoch. "Enoch, can you get me some wild mushrooms?"


    "Yes, Mom!" he answered eagerly, his politeness making me smile.


    Before he could move, I stepped in. "Why don¡¯t I go? I saw some mushrooms on the way here yesterday."


    Irene hesitated, studying me for a moment. She must have understood that I wanted to be useful, to contribute in some way.


    "Alright," she said finally. "But don¡¯t go too deep into the forest."


    "I won¡¯t," I assured her. "I¡¯ll be quick."


    Excitement bubbled in me as I stepped outside. The fresh morning air filled my lungs, and the warmth of the rising sun spread across my skin. For the first time in a while, I felt light.


    As I walked along the path, I scanned the ground for mushrooms. It didn¡¯t take long to find a small cluster nestled under some trees. I carefully plucked them one by one, their earthy scent filling the air.


    With my basket full, I decided to take a moment to look around. That¡¯s when I saw it¡ªthe large tree from yesterday. Standing beneath its towering branches, memories rushed back. Irene¡¯s kindness. Her willingness to help me, a stranger. She had no reason to, yet she did without hesitation.


    I owed her my life.


    With that thought, I turned back toward the house, feeling a sense of gratitude.


    The journey back was easier. The sunlight peeked through the leaves, birds chirped in the distance, and the gentle rustling of the wind created a soothing melody. It was peaceful.


    But as I got closer to the house, something changed.


    A strange smell lingered in the air, faint but unsettling. My steps slowed. The closer I got, the stronger it became. My stomach twisted with unease. Something wasn¡¯t right.


    Finally, I reached the entrance. A heavy feeling settled in my chest as I placed my hand on the door handle. The wood creaked under my touch.


    I pushed the door open.


    My heart pounded in my ears.


    The room was in shambles. Broken furniture lay scattered across the floor. The windows were shattered.


    "This can''t be real," I whispered.


    But the sight before me told me otherwise.