Author's Note:
Hi everyone,
I am thrilled to finally share with you the story that has been in the making since 2015. Originally, our plan was to bring this story to life through a manga format. However, due to time constraints, we have decided to present it to you as a novel for now. Rest assured, our passion for this story remains unwavering, and we are committed to bringing it to you in manga form in the near future.
I sincerely hope that you will fall in love with the characters and immerse yourselves in the world we have created. It has been a labor of love, and I am excited to embark on this journey with all of you. Your support and enjoyment of the story mean the world to me.
Stay tuned for updates on the manga adaptation, as we are eager to bring the visuals to life and enhance your experience even further. Once again, thank you for joining me on this adventure, and I can't wait to hear your thoughts and feedback.
With gratitude,
colinnennz (Paula Colinne Nuñez)
Rommer Baculinao
Dianne Dalisay
~~~~~~~~~
Part 1.
I remember humming a tune under the shade of a tree, the gentle spring breeze caressing my face. I was just a child of seven years, sitting alone in the solemn serenity of the Garden of the Grave. This place held the remnants of both my mother's people and my father's people, where fallen soldiers were laid to rest during the war. Only one towering tree stood in the midst of the beautiful flowers, providing solace and shelter to those who sought it.
On that day, I sat there, patiently waiting for my father. He had ventured off to war, leading our forces against the northern cities. I had heard the stories of his bravery and strength, and my heart swelled with pride. To me, he was more than a king or ruler; he was my hero, my only hero.
As the sun began its descent, casting an orange glow across the horizon, I saw him in the distance. His face covered in dirt, his body weary, but his smile radiated warmth and love. My heart leaped with joy, and I ran toward him, my tiny feet carrying me as fast as they could.
I threw myself into his arms, feeling the strength of his embrace. He smelled of sweat and battle, a scent that mingled with the sweet fragrance of the flowers he had brought from the war-torn lands. I accepted the bouquet, each bloom a symbol of his triumph and the sacrifices made by his soldiers.
Behind him, I noticed a woman. Her beauty was undeniable, but I knew that she would soon become my father's wife. The news had been whispered to me by my aunt Larrisa, who had taken on the role of a mother figure in my life ever since my own mother's passing. She had prepared me for this moment, explaining the necessity of securing alliances and maintaining peace in our kingdom.
I watched as my father introduced me to the woman, a future queen in the making. Her eyes held a kindness, but a pang of jealousy struck my heart. I knew that my claims to the throne were now in danger. The thought of anyone, even my beloved father, attempting to take that from me filled me with determination.
Now, as a sixteen-year-old teenager, I grappled with the weight of my heritage and the future that awaited me. I couldn't let anyone seize my birthright, not even my father. I vowed to myself that I would fight for what was rightfully mine, to protect the legacy of my mother and father, and to ensure the prosperity of our kingdom.
With each passing day, the weight of responsibility grew heavier on my shoulders. I would need to prove myself, to showcase my capabilities and strength, for the eyes of the court and the people were upon me. The journey ahead was uncertain, but I was determined to rise above any challenge that came my way.
As the sun set, casting long shadows across the Garden of the Grave, I made a silent promise to myself. I would carve my own path, navigate the treacherous waters of politics, and secure my rightful place on the throne. No one would take it from me, for I was Havrena, the daughter of a king and queen, and my destiny awaited me.

*Knock knock*
I opened my eyes and stare at window for a second, "Please, come in." I said.
As the maid entered the room, I maintained my composed posture, masking the turmoil within me. Her name was Anne, a young girl with a gentle disposition and a seemingly perpetual smile on her face. I despised that smile; it reminded me of the weight of my responsibilities and the constant scrutiny of my every move.
"What brings you here, Anne?" I asked, my voice laced with a hint of indifference.
"I've come to help you get ready for the day, Your Highness," she replied, her smile never faltering.
I sighed inwardly, resenting the fact that my position demanded I rely on the assistance of others for mundane tasks. I rose from my seat, allowing Anne to brush my hair and prepare my attire. She hummed softly as she worked, seemingly unperturbed by my lack of engagement.
"I heard there will be an important meeting today, Your Highness," Anne mentioned, breaking the silence.
"Yes, another tiresome gathering of nobles and advisors," I replied with a touch of disdain, "But I suppose it is necessary."
Anne's hands momentarily paused before continuing their task. It was clear she had sensed the bitterness in my tone, yet she remained steadfast in her duties. I found it both irritating and intriguing.
Once she finished arranging my hair and dressing me in regal attire, I turned to her, meeting her gaze for the first time since she entered the room.
"Anne, you are a remarkable maid," I said, my words surprising even myself.
Her smile widened, a genuine spark in her eyes. "Thank you, Your Highness. It is my honor to serve you."
I observed her, curious about the source of her unwavering dedication. "Tell me, Anne, why do you always smile?"
Anne's expression softened, and for a brief moment, her cheerful facade wavered. "Your Highness, it is not just a rule for me. Smiling is my way of spreading warmth and kindness, even when I may not feel it inside. I believe that in doing so, I can make someone's day a little brighter."
Her words struck a chord within me, resonating with a part of me I had long suppressed. The weight of my title and the constant pressure to conform had hardened my heart, turning me into someone unrecognizable.
"I envy your ability to find solace in such a simple gesture," I confessed, my voice barely above a whisper.
Anne approached me, her eyes filled with compassion. "Your Highness, you have the power to be more than just a princess. You can be a beacon of change, even in the smallest of ways. Your smile may not come easily now, but perhaps one day, it will."
Her words touched me deeply, and for the first time in a long while, a glimmer of hope ignited within me. Perhaps there was a path forward, one where I could be true to myself while fulfilling my duties.
As I left the room, heading towards the imposing meeting hall, I made a silent vow to find my own way of bringing warmth and compassion to those around me. The journey wouldn't be easy, but with Anne's unwavering smile as a reminder, I knew I had taken the first step towards reclaiming my true self.
And so, as I walked into the meeting, a slight smile tugged at the corners of my lips-a small rebellion against the rules and expectations that had bound me for so long.
While I was talking to Anne, the maid who had been with our family for years, my aunt Larissa unexpectedly entered the room. Her presence was always a cause for concern, as she had a way of meddling in affairs that were none of her business. Anne and I exchanged a knowing glance, aware that trouble was brewing.
With an air of authority, Aunt Larissa addressed Anne directly. "Anne, I've decided that I will be the one to help our dear princess prepare for today's events. I have some important news to share with her as well."
Curiosity piqued, I turned my attention fully to Aunt Larissa, my heart pounding with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. "What news do you have, Aunt Larissa? Is it about my father, the king, and the queen?"
Aunt Larissa nodded, a sly smile playing on her lips. "Indeed, my dear princess. It pertains to your brother's grand introduction to the court."
My brother's grand introduction. The words hung in the air, causing my heart to sink. I had always felt a deep resentment toward my stepmother, the queen, and my stepbrother, knowing that my claim to the throne was in danger. It seemed that Aunt Larissa had stumbled upon information that could further complicate matters.
As Aunt Larissa continued, her voice dripped with an undeniable satisfaction. "You see, my dear, the king and queen are planning an extravagant ceremony for your brother. It will be a spectacle that will solidify his position as the heir to the throne. They want to ensure that the people accept him fully, leaving no room for doubt or contestation."
I clenched my fists, struggling to maintain my composure. The news only confirmed my fears, and the weight of the impending threat settled heavily on my shoulders. My claim to the throne was slipping away, and the notion of my stepbrother ascending while I was left in the shadows was unbearable.
But as Aunt Larissa reveled in her revelation, a determined fire ignited within me. I realized that if I wanted to secure my rightful place on the throne, I needed to act swiftly and shrewdly. This was not a battle to be fought with open hostility but with cunning strategy and alliances formed in the shadows.
With a calm but resolute voice, I turned to Anne. "Thank you, Aunt Larissa, for sharing this information. It has given me much to consider. Anne, please continue to assist me, but let us keep this between ourselves for now. We must gather more information and plan our next move carefully."
Anne nodded, her loyalty evident in her eyes. "Of course, my princess. Together, we will navigate these treacherous waters and ensure that your rightful place on the throne is secured."
In that moment, I made a silent vow to reclaim what was rightfully mine. The hate I harbored for my stepmother and stepbrother fueled my determination, and I knew that the path ahead would be treacherous. But with Anne by my side and a plan taking shape, I was prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead and fight for my destiny as the true ruler of the kingdom.
Part 2.
With the introduction ceremony of my stepbrother looming just ten days away, my heart simmered with a potent mixture of anger and concern. The event only served to further solidify his position as the heir to the throne, leaving my claim to power hanging by a thread. To make matters worse, I hadn't spoken to my father, the king, in almost two months. The thought gnawed at my soul. Was he forgetting about me?
Seeking solace and respite from the turmoil, I found myself drawn to a peculiar place-the Lonely Tree. It stood tall and majestic amidst a vibrant sea of flowers, nestled in the heart of the Garden of the Grave. Here, fallen soldiers from opposing factions found their eternal rest, their lives cut short in the throes of war. This place, drenched in anger, cries, and death, inexplicably offered me a semblance of peace.
Leaning against the tree's ancient trunk, I closed my eyes, allowing the gentle breeze to caress my face. The whispers of the fallen seemed to echo in my ears, reminding me of the fleeting nature of power and the sacrifices made in its pursuit. Here, even the most valiant warriors had succumbed to the inexorable passage of time, their ambitions fading away like echoes in the wind.
As I absorbed the somber atmosphere, a profound realization washed over me. The Lonely Tree represented more than a battleground of conflicting forces; it embodied the impermanence of power and the importance of choosing a path different from that of violence and destruction. It reminded me that my journey to claim the throne needed to be guided by wisdom and compassion, not blind rage.
Gazing at the scattered petals, vibrant yet ephemeral, I resolved to confront my father and plead my case. It was time to reestablish the bond we once shared, to remind him of the love he held for his daughter, and the rightful place I deserved in his heart. The approaching introduction ceremony served as a catalyst for action, propelling me to muster the courage to confront the uncertainties head-on.
Leaving the Lonely Tree and the Garden of the Grave behind, I embarked on a new path-a path that would require me to navigate treacherous waters with grace and diplomacy. With each step, I embraced the weight of my responsibilities and the tumultuous journey that lay ahead. The ceremony may mark a pivotal moment for my stepbrother, but it would also serve as the turning point for my determination to secure my rightful place on the throne.
As the sun cast its warm glow upon my face, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. The Garden of the Grave had bestowed upon me not only a moment of tranquility amidst chaos but also the wisdom to approach my future with a tempered heart. The winds of change blew around me, and with newfound determination, I set forth on the path that would shape my destiny and determine the fate of the kingdom.
As I sought solace under the branches of the Lonely Tree, a voice broke through my contemplation saying "My lady, are you the King's daughter?". Startled, I turned to see a young man, roughly my age, standing before me. His presence irritated me, and my initial reaction was one of guarded defensiveness.
With a dismissive tone, I replied, "And if I am? What business is it of yours?"
The young man seemed undeterred by my coldness. Instead, he smiled politely and bowed his head. "My apologies, my lady. I mean no disrespect. I merely wished to confirm if you are indeed the King's daughter."
My irritation began to wane as his respectful demeanor caught my attention. There was something about his composure that hinted at nobility and upbringing. Perhaps it was time to adjust my approach.
"Yes, I am the King's daughter," I replied, my tone softer now, infused with a touch of curiosity. "Why do you ask?"
The young man straightened himself and met my gaze with unwavering confidence. "Allow me to introduce myself properly. I am Prince Aiden, one of the twelve sons of your father's trusted alliance. I have come here seeking an audience with you, Princess."
The revelation struck a chord within me. My father's alliance consisted of twelve powerful families, and their sons were potential allies in my claim to the throne. I had paid little attention to them before, consumed by my own concerns. However, this encounter presented an opportunity to forge new alliances and gather support.
Suppressing my initial apathy, I extended my hand toward Prince Aiden. "Apologies for my earlier rudeness, Prince Aiden. I am Princess Havrena, pleased to make your acquaintance. How may I assist you?"
Prince Aiden took my hand gently, his eyes gleaming with a mix of curiosity and determination. "Princess Havrena, word of your rightful claim to the throne has reached my ears. I have come to offer my support, and that of my family, in your pursuit of justice and your rightful place as the kingdom's ruler."
Surprise washed over me, melting away any lingering skepticism. It was clear that Prince Aiden saw beyond my initial dismissive attitude, recognizing the potential for a powerful alliance. This was an unexpected turn of events, but one I couldn't afford to ignore.
Grateful for his offer, I nodded appreciatively. "Prince Aiden, your support means a great deal to me. The path to reclaiming my rightful place on the throne is fraught with challenges, but with allies like you and your family, we stand a better chance."
And so, beneath the solemn embrace of the Lonely Tree, a bond between Princess Havrena and Prince Aiden was forged. Together, they would navigate the treacherous political landscape, utilizing their combined strength and determination to challenge the forces that threatened her claim to the throne. The encounter served as a reminder that allies could be found in the most unexpected places, and that the outcome of their united efforts had the potential to change the destiny of the kingdom.
As Prince Aiden and I stood beneath the solemn branches of the Lonely Tree, he cast an inquisitive glance around the Garden of the Grave. His brows furrowed slightly, and he turned his attention back to me, a mix of concern and curiosity in his eyes.
"Princess Havrena, may I ask why you find yourself in this place alone? The Garden of the Grave is not a common destination for someone of your stature," he queried, his voice gentle but filled with genuine curiosity.
His question caught me off guard. I had assumed that everyone knew of this place and its significance, especially those involved in the kingdom's affairs. But Prince Aiden's lack of awareness presented an opportunity for me to shed light on the emotions that drew me to this somber sanctuary.
Taking a deep breath, I began to explain, my voice laced with a tinge of vulnerability. "Prince Aiden, the Garden of the Grave holds a deeper meaning for me. It may appear an unusual place for someone of my status, but it has become a refuge of sorts. Here, amidst the fallen soldiers, I find solace, contemplating the fragility of life and the weight of responsibility that accompanies power."
Prince Aiden listened intently, his expression softening as he absorbed my words. "I see. It is a place of reflection and humility," he mused, his voice carrying an understanding tone.
Nodding, I continued, my voice tinged with sadness. "Indeed. This garden witnessed the anguish, sacrifices, and tragedy brought upon by power struggles and wars. It serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences that unchecked ambitions can inflict upon a kingdom and its people."
A somber silence enveloped us, punctuated only by the whispering breeze rustling the leaves overhead. Prince Aiden's presence, his willingness to listen and understand, eased the weight that burdened my heart.
He finally broke the silence, his voice filled with a newfound depth. "Princess Evangeline, your choice to seek solace in this place is a testament to your wisdom and compassion. It shows a depth of character that is often overlooked in the pursuit of power. I am honored to have witnessed this side of you."
A hint of gratitude flickered within me, appreciating his genuine acknowledgment. "Thank you, Prince Aiden. It means a great deal to me that you understand."
As we stood together beneath the Lonely Tree, I realized that Prince Aiden's lack of knowledge about the Garden of the Grave was inconsequential. What mattered was his willingness to listen and accept me, acknowledging the facets of my character that extended beyond the political landscape.
In that moment, our connection deepened, forged not only by shared ambitions but also by a mutual understanding and respect. The Garden of the Grave, with its solemn beauty, had become a catalyst for our growing alliance-one grounded in empathy, compassion, and a shared desire to build a kingdom that thrived on more than mere power.
As the sun began its descent, casting a warm golden hue over the horizon, Prince Aiden turned to me, his eyes filled with concern. "Princess Havrena, it is getting late. We should make our way back to the castle. Your safety is of utmost importance."
I nodded in agreement, appreciating his thoughtfulness. Together, we started our journey back, our steps accompanied by the gentle rustling of leaves beneath our feet.
As we approached the castle gates, I was taken aback by the sight that greeted me. Eleven more young men, each bearing a regal presence, stood in a semi-circle, waiting patiently. The realization struck me-they were the twelve sons of King Hathorn, my father's trusted alliance.
Prince Aiden stepped forward, his voice filled with warmth as he introduced his brothers. "Princess Havrena, allow me to introduce my brothers, the twelve sons of King Hathorn. They have joined us here today to pledge their support to your cause and to ensure your safe return to the castle."
I regarded each of them in turn, noting the diverse array of personalities and the unwavering determination reflected in their eyes. It was clear that their allegiance extended beyond familial duty; it was rooted in a genuine belief in justice and the desire to see the kingdom flourish under my rightful rule.
As I took in their presence, my heart swelled with gratitude. These young men, each with their unique strengths and perspectives, were offering their support without hesitation or expectation of reward. Their loyalty was a testament to the bonds forged through shared values and a common vision.
Expressing my gratitude, I addressed them with sincerity. "I am deeply honored by your presence and the pledge of your support. Together, we shall navigate the challenges that lie ahead, forging a path towards a kingdom that values justice, unity, and the well-being of its people."
As the twelve brothers stood before me, their presence commanded attention. Each introduced himself with a name befitting their noble lineage, revealing a tapestry of cool Western names that resonated with the authority of kings.
Prince Aiden, the one with whom I had formed an initial bond, spoke first, his voice carrying a soothing cadence. "I am Prince Aiden, as you already know. I stand as a steadfast ally and a friend to you, Princess Havrena."
Next in line was Prince Caleb, his voice resonating with a sense of wisdom beyond his years. "I am Prince Caleb, ready to lend my guidance and knowledge to support your cause."
Prince Dominic, with his piercing gaze, stepped forward confidently. "I am Prince Dominic, committed to upholding the values of honor and integrity in service of the kingdom."
Prince Everett, his voice calm yet resolute, declared, "I am Prince Everett, prepared to defend your rightful claim and ensure the prosperity of our land."
Prince Gabriel, exuding an air of charm, smiled warmly as he introduced himself. "I am Prince Gabriel, offering my diplomatic skills and forging alliances to strengthen our cause."
Prince Harrison, with his commanding presence, stated firmly, "I am Prince Harrison, ready to lead our forces and protect the kingdom with unwavering loyalty."
Prince Jasper, his eyes reflecting a mischievous spark, offered his support. "I am Prince Jasper, bringing a touch of agility and resourcefulness to our endeavors."
Prince Landon, with a quiet strength, spoke with conviction. "I am Prince Landon, standing firm to ensure justice prevails and the voice of the people is heard."
Prince Maximus, his voice resonating with authority, declared, "I am Prince Maximus, pledging my strength and courage to defend our shared goals."
Prince Nathaniel, with an aura of intellect, stepped forward. "I am Prince Nathaniel, offering my strategic mind and keen insight to help shape our path forward."
Prince Oliver, with a warm and gentle demeanor, stated his commitment. "I am Prince Oliver, dedicated to fostering unity and harmony among the people of our kingdom."
Lastly, Prince Sebastian, exuding an air of regality, spoke with unwavering confidence. "I am Prince Sebastian, ready to wield my leadership skills to guide us toward a prosperous future."
The introductions completed, I stood in awe of the strength and diversity represented by the twelve sons of King Hathorn. Each prince possessed unique qualities and abilities that, when combined, formed a formidable force united under a common purpose.
With their unwavering support, my heart swelled with renewed determination. In their names, I found strength, and in their presence, a reminder of the collective power we possessed to shape the destiny of our kingdom.
Together, Princess Havrena and the twelve princes stood poised to challenge the forces that threatened the rightful order, knowing that their alliance was forged not only by shared goals but by the trust and camaraderie they had established. As the sun set on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the castle walls, they took a collective step forward, ready to embark on a journey that would test their mettle and shape the future of the realm they held dear.
Prince Aiden stepped forward once more, a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "Princess Havrena, as we stand united, we shall be a formidable force, guided by our collective dedication to a better future. May our combined efforts bring about the change this kingdom so desperately needs."
The brothers nodded in agreement, their conviction shining through. It was clear that our alliance extended beyond mere politics; it was built on mutual respect and a shared determination to create a brighter tomorrow.
As we entered the castle together, the weight of my responsibilities felt lighter, knowing that I had the unwavering support of these twelve noble hearts. Love may not have been the driving force between Prince Aiden and me, but friendship and camaraderie were forged in the crucible of shared goals and a mutual desire to bring about a just and prosperous reign.
With the sun setting, casting its final rays upon the castle walls, I stepped forward, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead. Supported by Prince Aiden and his eleven brothers, I embraced the path before me, knowing that together, we would shape a future that would restore balance and justice to the kingdom I held dear.
As the twelve princes and I stood in a semi-circle, engaged in conversation and getting to know one another, a sudden heavy footstep interrupted our exchange. All heads turned as my stepbrother, the one I had grown to resent, approached us with an air of authority.
In an act of respect, the princes immediately bowed their heads in homage to my stepbrother, acknowledging his position as the favored son of the king. I, too, mustered a smile, masking the bitterness that resided within me. It was crucial to maintain composure, even if it felt disingenuous at times.
Soon after, the grand entrance continued as my father, King Cytus, and King Hathorn, his trusted ally, joined our gathering. Their regal presence commanded attention, and I watched as the princes extended their respects, bowing in deference to the kings. It was a display of reverence and loyalty that filled the room.
Amidst the formalities, my thoughts drifted to my absent aunt, Larrisa. Where could she be in this crucial moment? It struck me as odd that she was not present for such an important gathering. Questions swirled in my mind, curiosity gnawing at me. What was she doing? What role did she play in the unfolding events?
As my father's voice resonated through the room, inviting us to join him for a grand dinner, I couldn't help but wonder about the absence of my aunt. My gaze flickered towards my father, hoping to find answers in his eyes, but he remained impassive, his attention focused on the larger proceedings.
Suppressing my curiosity for the time being, I plastered a polite smile on my face and followed the princes and kings towards the banquet hall. It was not the time nor the place to dwell on the mystery of my aunt's whereabouts. The weight of my ambitions and the importance of securing my claim to the throne demanded my full attention.
With each step, I resolved to uncover the truth about my aunt's actions and motives, aware that her presence or absence could have significant implications for my journey. The dinner would provide an opportunity to gather information, observe those around me, and perhaps unravel the secrets that lay hidden beneath the surface.
As we entered the grand hall, adorned with opulence and filled with the aroma of sumptuous delicacies, I steeled myself for the challenges ahead. The dinner would not only satisfy our hunger but also serve as a stage for political maneuvering, alliances, and the delicate dance of power.
Little did I know that the answers to my questions about my aunt Larrisa would unfold in unexpected ways, revealing a web of intrigue, alliances, and secrets that would test not only my claim to the throne but also the bonds forged with the twelve princes and the true nature of those I held dear.
...
As the dinner progressed, I couldn't help but feel a nagging sense of concern for the whereabouts of my aunt, Larrisa. The unanswered questions continued to swirl in my mind, but I made a conscious effort to set them aside and focus on the present moment.
Engaging in polite conversation, I socialized with my family and the visiting princes, attempting to create an atmosphere of camaraderie and unity. Prince Aiden, ever the gracious companion, shared the story of our chance encounter in the Garden of the Grave, emphasizing the solace and wisdom he witnessed me seeking in that solemn place.
The other eleven princes, in turn, spoke of their awe at the majesty of the castle and recounted their experiences on the battlefield. Their tales were filled with valor and triumph, but as their words continued, my heart sank at the dark turn the conversation took.
They recounted the battles they had fought, the lives they had taken, and the grim consequences that befell the defeated. They spoke of massacres, where kings, generals, and their noble men met their end in the face of their adversaries. The fate of the women and children, torn from their homes, sold into slavery, or worse, met with a cruel and untimely demise.
My mind reeled with the horror of their words. How could such atrocities be committed in the name of power and conquest? The weight of their stories sat heavily on my shoulders, a stark reminder of the darkness that lurked within the world beyond the castle walls.
Silence fell over the table as the gravity of their words hung in the air. The once lively and congenial atmosphere turned somber, overshadowed by the atrocities that had been shared. It was a stark reminder of the challenges I faced in securing my claim to the throne, the treacherous path that lay before me.
In that moment, I resolved to rise above the horrors that had been revealed, to use my position and influence to steer the kingdom toward a more compassionate and just future. The stories of the princes' battles became fuel for my determination, serving as a constant reminder of the responsibility I carried as a leader.
As the dinner continued, the conversation shifted, and I found solace in discussing lighter topics. Yet, the words of the princes lingered in the recesses of my mind, fueling a renewed sense of purpose and the unyielding desire to protect the kingdom from the savagery that had been described.
Unbeknownst to me, the unfolding evening held further revelations and challenges that would test my resolve and shape the course of my journey. And in the midst of it all, I remained resolute in my determination to uncover the truth about my aunt's absence and safeguard the throne that was rightfully mine.