I slowly opened my eyes. The thick purple curtains blocked out most of the sunlight, with only a small ray entering the room from the side. My room was as dull as ever – off-white walls, with only a few cabinets to hold my belongings. A huge bed placed in the centre of the room, made it appear as if the room wasn't completely empty.
The only thing that gave some life to my room was a single medal, hung right above my bed. As much as I hated the existence of this medal, it was my only possession that was earned. It feels like just yesterday that I had a life-changing experience, and it was already time for another one.
Thirteen years had passed since that fateful day. I never forgot that day, the pain I felt as I spoke to Father. I quickly get those thoughts out of my head before I ruin my day. I slid out of my bed and scanned through my closet to pick out an attire that would be appropriate for this dreadful day.
I had just about gotten my clothes on when the doors swung open and in ran my brother. Aron, despite being four years younger than me, was much more athletic and good-looking than me. He was quite intelligent and was the face of our family for the newer generations. Fortunately, despite him being this popular, the fame never got to his head. However, sometimes I wish that it did.
"Brother! Happy Birthday to you!" he yelled at the top of his voice and then proceeded to tackle me. I landed on my bed with Aron holding on to me like I was his pet trying to escape. "Thanks a lot, Aron," I replied, trying to fake my enthusiasm.
That's right. Today was my birthday; my eighteenth birthday to be precise. I used to be fond of my birthdays until I realised what they were really for. This was one day when my family would use me as a marketing tool. Every year they would host a huge event for my birthday while inviting all the important figures of our nation. This was one day where they could increase their political influence without it being blatantly obvious.
I tried to push Aron off me, but to no avail. So, I just got up and continued with my day, with Aron hanging onto me.
I arrived at the dining hall, to see Father already waiting for me. Aron detached from me, as I leapt at my parent. "Good morning, Father!" I yelled, now replicating what Aron did to me. "Good morning to you too, Valerio, and a very happy birthday!" he replied.
We all took our respective places at the table, with Father at the head of the table, and Aron and I on either side. Over the next few minutes, the rest of the family also flooded into the room, wishing me, and taking their seats.
Once the entire family had settled down, the servants were ordered to serve food. Within a few seconds, an extravagant meal, consisting of my favourites, was placed in front of us.
The meal was over almost as quickly as it started. The food was exceptional, something that I had to praise the chef for.
I was about to leave the room, when Father stopped me "Valerio, please stay here for some time. I have something to give you." This wasn't anything new. Every year on my birthday, Father would give me a letter written by my late mother.
Mother could best have been described by the word 'Angel'. She was the kindest person in all of Kartenia, actively going out of her way to help those who needed it. She spent extraordinary amounts to provide care to those who couldn't afford it and would also go to the shelters and slums to provide aid. She was undoubtedly the main reason why the Herz territory was the most developed, while also being very peaceful.
Once the rest of the family had vacated the room, Father turned to me. Reaching into the inner pocket of his coat, he pulled out a pink envelope and held it out to me. I took it from him and thanked him.
"Before you leave, there is something you should know." I tilted my head in curiosity. "This is one of the last letters that Raven was able to write. This, unfortunately, means that this is the last birthday letter that you will get." The pain in his voice was noticeable. Although I was upset, I said nothing. There were no words that could express my feelings. I silently took my leave and walked to the door.
I knew that Father was putting on a brave face in front of me, not wanting to let his children see him in his weak state. The moment I closed the door, I heard Father cry. I did my best to fight my urge to go back in and console him. He has been hiding his tears for my entire life, and the most I can do for him is to hide the fact that I know that.
I walked back to my room, looking at Mother's letter. The envelope was sealed shut by a small ruby that was glued to the flap. All of the letters that Mother wrote me, had a ruby on them, with a small image etched on their base, each representing our memories together. I closed my eyes and reminisced about Mother's last few days. Although she knew that her end was nearing, she was still the happiest person around.
I opened my eyes and wiped the tears that had started forming in my eyes. Before I realised it, I had already reached my room. I sat at my desk and opened the envelope. I pulled out the letter from within and started reading. My eyes widened as I read through the letter. I pinched myself, just to find out that this wasn't a dream.
What in god's name was happening?