Eira's POV
Today marks an unforgettable day. Uncle Alexander's passing is still hard to fathom. Rumor has it that his son is stepping into his shoes.
Oddly enough, I'm feeling rather on edge, despite this not being directly related to me. Nonetheless, I must attend the event alongside my father. There's an unexplainable tension in the air, as if something ominous awaits. The upcoming gathering requires my attention, and Father will be here to collect me soon.
Swiftly, I prepare myself, knowing my father will be arriving shortly. Our carriage arrives, and I engage in conversation with my dad.
He's the only person before whom I let my guard down and reveal my true emotions. He's my refuge, my hero.
In no time, we reach the grand castle. I adopt my customary impassive expression as we step inside together.
A Time Skip of an Hour
After the exchange of pleasantries, I find myself seated on a sofa, alone. The reality is, I don't have any friends. Being branded as the destined sacrifice and carrying my emotionless facade seem to repel others. Solitude suits me just fine.
Suddenly, the advisor's voice echoes through the hall, capturing everyone's attention.
"Ladies and gentlemen, may I present our new leader, Alastair Regalbrook, son of our esteemed warrior, Alexander Regalbrook."
The introduction is followed by the entrance of a man in his late twenties, exuding an air of both serenity and grandeur.
There's something captivating about him, a strange sensation washing over me. A sense of familiarity and connection tugs at my subconscious.
I dismiss these feelings, chalking them up to his undeniable handsomeness.
With his presence commanding the room, Alastair steps forward and addresses the assembly.
"I'm grateful for your presence today. While I can't replicate my father's legacy, I promise fairness and a determined fight for victory in the impending war." His words resonate with sincerity, and I can't help but be impressed.
The banquet ensues, and Alastair mingles effortlessly with the guests, catching my father's attention before they both disappear into the crowd.
A Few Hours Later
Boredom sets in as the hours tick by. My impatience grows.
When will Father return? I yearn to be home. The tranquility is abruptly shattered by a commotion, something I've always disliked.
Suddenly,
"Sir Eugene, what's happened?" a voice cries out, causing my heart to race.
Eugene? That's my father's name. What's going on?
Without a second thought, I rush towards the source of the turmoil.
Among the crowd lies my father, his body stained with blood. Panic surges through me as I approach him, struggling to suppress my rising emotions.
"What happened to him?" My voice cracked
"He was ambushed by the Azurs. We were caught off guard. They attacked from behind," one of the warriors reports, his voice heavy with anger and distress.
"F-Father, what's happened?" I manage to ask, my voice quivering as I kneel by his side.
With immense effort, Father grasps my hand, his weakened gaze locking onto mine.
"My Eira, my precious princess," he whispers, a bittersweet smile gracing his lips.
"I apologize for everything. I won't be there to shield you from your destiny. Please, my love, remain steadfast. Remember what I've taught you. I cherish you, my princess. You're the most precious treasure of my life... I... love... you."
Frozen in shock, I stand there, numb. Emotions swirl within me, begging to be released, but I maintain my composure.
Someone guides me back home, and I find myself lying in bed, recalling the beautiful memories my father left behind. I want to sob, to grieve, but my mask remains firmly in place.
As I lay there, the past words of my father replay in my mind. I find a strange solace in knowing he'll be waiting for me. The next chapter of my life, shrouded in mystery, beckons. I will join my father soon.