I no longer remember my parents' voices.
Sometimes I used to look out from my balcony, towards the entrance to Bellesea, my prison for these two years, and hope that my parents would step down from their carriage and greet me as if none of that had ever happened.
Of course, that was not going to happen. I had to adapt to reality, I had to forget and move on, like everyone else, but how to do it? They were my driving force, my daily motivation.
A tear rested on my cheek, and I wasn't one to cry. I quickly wiped it away, making sure no one at the breakfast table had seen it. I decided to have a hearty breakfast. I was tired of seeing my flabby reflection in the mirror, so I needed to nourish myself better. Besides, we had a contact combat class today, and I needed to be strong. I served scrambled eggs and two slices of toast with jam, along with coffee. I hoped I wouldn't feel sick after that feast.
I loved contact combat. It made me feel powerful, and I used to be one of the best in my class. Of course, I hadn't faced any warlocks yet, most of whom surpassed me in size and strength. I would have to learn to be quick and find their weaknesses.
Upon arriving at school, I was surprised by the new reality. Witches and warlocks had integrated seamlessly, and the school's atmosphere felt fresh and energized. The hallways were filled with students, all engaging in lively conversations.
The elemental magic classroom exuded an aura of ancient knowledge and mystery. Its walls were adorned with scrolls containing runic inscriptions and ancient spells, lending an air of reverence to the history of magic. The polished wooden floor creaked under the students' steps, carrying the imprint of time and accumulated wisdom over the years.
The classroom was arranged in an amphitheater style, with tiered seating that provided a clear view of the professor and the magical chalkboard in the center. Magical candles hung from the ceiling, casting a soft, cozy, and mystical ambiance.
On each desk, students had access to a variety of magical tools related to the elements, such as water and earth in ancient vases. The atmosphere was infused with the unmistakable scent of incense and herbs, awakening the senses.
The magical chalkboard was located at the front of the classroom, ready to reveal symbols and spells as the professor explained.
I took my seat at the back; it was where I always sat. To my surprise, Aren was sitting beside me. After an annoyed glance, I sat down without paying him much attention. Honestly, ignoring him seemed like my best move.
The professor began to review the basics of safety and the protocols to follow. Although the subject was fundamental for magical practice, I couldn't help but feel a certain impatience. I had grown up in a more active environment and had gained knowledge about magical safety from an early age. This review felt more like a formality, and my mind wandered between anticipation for the upcoming classes and a desire to learn more advanced magic.
To say I was bored would be an understatement. Until someone tapped me on the shoulder with a pencil.
-How are you today, princess? - Aren looked at me playfully, with a smile on his perfect lips. I couldn't believe his audacity. He had knocked me down, then laughed at my powers and nearly killed me in an attempt to prove a point. And he expected us to be something like friends? Was he crazy? When I didn't respond, he added, - Oh, come on, what happened yesterday was just training; I didn't mean to harm you. I glanced him up and down.
-You couldn't hurt me even if you wanted to-. Alright, perhaps he could do me some harm; he was stronger and more powerful, with a level of control over his powers that I had never seen before, and that frightened me. But I wasn't going to let him intimidate me or see how truly scared I was. He let out a small laugh and moved closer to me.
-Maybe with a little help from me, that could become a reality-. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Him, training me...? Why would he want to do something like that?
-What makes you think I need your help? I'm doing just fine on my own, - I said, unable to resist asking, - Besides, why would you want to help me?
He looked at me with an expression I couldn't decipher. He suddenly became serious, and I could tell he was debating whether to tell me something or keep it to himself.
After a pause that seemed to last for minutes, Aren settled into his seat.
-I thought you might be feeling quite lonely, and I just wanted to help.
Something stirred inside me. He had touched a sensitive chord, undoubtedly. He had seen me wandering the halls alone, not speaking to anyone, as I often did. I wasn't about to delve into my deepest feelings about it, so I decided to counterattack.
-Well, you aren't exactly surrounded by companions either - I retorted, expecting some negative reaction, but he surprised me with a rather... sexy chuckle.
-True, fair point. Besides, I need a partner for practice, and I've heard you're the most competent one around. I only train with the best.
-Well, train with a warlock; the ones in your class are stronger.
-I don't like them - he justified and came closer to me - On the other hand, I think you're great.
I don't know why that sent a shiver down my spine. Or, it was more like a tingling sensation in the pit of my stomach.
I considered the possibility of training with him. On one hand, I was afraid because I had always excelled, and he had put me in an uncomfortable position. On the other hand, he seemed to possess deeper knowledge in all areas, and his assistance could be beneficial for me.
Besides, I missed training, especially outside of class hours. I used to do it with my dad. He always managed to bring a smile to my face when I returned sad because things hadn't gone well at school. He gave me a lot of encouragement and strength to carry on.
I remembered we used to go to a somewhat hidden part of the royal garden, an area surrounded by lush vegetation and adorned with ancient marble statues that told forgotten stories. It was a quiet, secret corner of the garden, away from curious gazes and the palace's hustle and bustle. There, amidst the magic of the mermaid statue and the basement beneath it, we used to practice our magical abilities. It was like a sanctuary of hidden knowledge and learning.
-Alright - I heard myself say, the words came out faster than I expected - We'll train together. I have the perfect place for it.
-In the palace? Bellesea doesn't seem like the perfect place to train.
-Trust me, it's the perfect place.
-Alright, how about today at 6?
Had I just invited my new friend, who just yesterday tried to kill me, to my house? The answer was yes.
-Agreed.
…
Advanced combat class took a back seat when I was paired with a skinny and scrawny wizard who didn't seem to know what he was doing. I neutralized him with two simple moves, and he was already on the ground. That's how the class went, monotonous and tedious. I realized that maybe I had made the right choice by accepting training with Aren, as he was much more competent.
During the training, I couldn't help but look at Aren and notice his physique. His muscles stood out beneath the thin fabric of the white t-shirt he was wearing, and sweat clung to his body in a provocative way. Inadvertently, I let out a sigh. There was certainly no doubt that the wizard looked incredibly attractive.
I thought he wouldn't notice me looking until his green eyes landed on me, and he gave me a mischievous smile. I blushed immediately. What was I doing? I instinctively averted my gaze and focused on defeating my opponent about twenty times more.
…
Bellesea has been my home for as long as I can remember. It's an architectural marvel that stands majestically in the heart of a vast and lush forest. It's located near the beach and the harbor, and from some rooms, those facing south, you can see the horizon. To me, this imposing palace of white marble is much more than just a symbol of royalty; it's the place where I grew up, where I learned about the history of our dynasty, and about the weight of the crown that now rests on my shoulders.
The tall towers of the palace have always seemed like eternal guardians watching over our family and our kingdom. Walking through the halls adorned with hand-embroidered tapestries is like strolling through my family's history. The audience chambers bear witness to the endless debates and state decisions I must face, and the splendor of this place never ceases to amaze me.
Bellesea's gardens are my personal sanctuary, with secret and enchanted corners where I find moments of peace and reflection. Amid the busy life of royalty, these gardens allow me to connect with nature and with myself.
Truly, the palace was a place I had come to deeply love, a witness to my growth and my preparation for the role I am destined to play on the Continent, but now, under the new reign, it was my prison. I couldn't come and go as I pleased, as I used to, and the figures that brought that place to life were no longer there.
When the carriage parked in front of the majestic entrance gates of Bellesea, I admired its grandeur for a moment. The gates were a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design. Impressive in their size and detail, these gates are a symbol of the grandeur and importance of the palace.
Constructed from hand-carved oak wood, the gates were so tall that they disappeared from view once fully raised. Every inch of their surface was adorned with intricate designs and reliefs that narrated the history of the royal dynasty and the legacy of those who have ruled in Bellesea throughout the generations.
The carvings on the gates are true works of art, displaying scenes of heroic deeds, the coronation of past monarchs, and symbols of power and wisdom. Gold and bronze intertwined in the details, casting gleams of light in moments of bright sun, adding a sense of majesty to the palace's entrance.
The gates were so heavy that they required several guards to open them, and the creaking of the hinges resonated like an announcement of the arrival of someone of great importance. Once you pass through these gates, you step into a world of opulence and splendor that characterizes the interior of my home.
The palace is not just a residence for the king and his family, but several nobles stay in the northeastern part of the place. It's always filled with life, with children dancing around the water fountains that grace the entrance garden. The sound of water bubbling and falling with its gentle murmur provides the perfect backdrop. The little ones laugh and play, their innocent giggles filling the air.
Observing this scene is like witnessing the very essence of childhood. Childhood to which I long to return.
With a sigh, I made my way to my room. I always loved my room. My mother and I had been decorating it over the years, and now everything reminded me of her. Every detail reflected my royal status and the heritage of royalty that I proudly carry.
The walls were draped in soft silk that radiated warmth and created a cozy atmosphere. Walking on the floor, the exquisitely woven carpet offered a sense of luxury beneath my feet.
In the center of the room, there stood a majestic canopy bed, covered with white lace curtains. The bedding was richly embroidered with golden and silver threads, and a set of soft-toned cushions were casually piled.
In front of the bed, an elegant mahogany desk was positioned next to a window that overlooked the tranquil palace gardens. This is my workspace, where I spend hours engrossed in schoolwork. A marble fireplace adorned one of the corners, providing warmth and comfort on the coldest nights.
Through a double door, I accessed my dressing room, an exquisitely decorated space where royal dresses and suits lined up like a fashion runway. Jewel cases with precious stones and accessories gleamed in glass display cabinets.
Tired, I lay down on the bed on my back. I gradually closed my eyes, and as I was about to enter the world of dreams, I jolted awake. The training session! I had almost forgotten.
I hurriedly entered the bathroom and took a refreshing shower. Upon exiting, I carefully chose my attire. I didn't want to appear too eager to look good, nor did I want to look disheveled. Why did I care so much, anyway? I pushed aside my thoughts and settled for a simple black outfit of snug-fitting pants and a short-sleeved shirt, made of lightweight and breathable fabrics that allowed me to move with ease. My training boots were sturdy and comfortable, providing the necessary support for my feet. Sometimes, I also opted for protective gloves that shielded my hands from minor injuries during practice. Something whispered to me that I might need them, so I put them on and gave myself a quick look in the mirror.
I looked normal, neither too dressed up nor too disheveled. Just normal.
It became 6, and I went downstairs to find Aren at the royal gate, arguing with a guard.
-What's going on here?- I asked as I approached them.
The guard's name was Nick, and I had known him since I was a child, so it would be easy to tell him not to spread the word that I was having small training sessions with a wizard as the queen.
-He's not authorized, my lady.
-Well, I authorize it. He's here for a school group project,-I commented, speaking with a certain confidence in my voice.
Aren looked a bit nervous, but he concealed it well.
Nick gave me a cautious look, then turned his gaze back to Aren. He scrutinized him from head to toe. After a while, he nodded.
-Thank you, Nick, - I said, with the biggest smile I could muster.
-Your little friend isn't very friendly,-Aren remarked after we had walked a few steps away from the entrance.
-I've known him for years; he's just protecting the castle and its future queen."
-Sometimes I forget that you're the future heir, -he said with a chuckle.
-You're not the only one; sometimes I can't believe it myself, - I replied as I led him along the side of the castle, passing through the extensive gardens until we reached a small area with a beautiful mermaid statue rising above the lush lawn.
-I don't think there's enough space here for us to practice.
I rolled my eyes at him. He really had no idea what was coming.
I bent down slightly to touch the mermaid's hand. With my touch, the mermaid shifted, revealing a staircase leading down to a kind of basement.
-No one will see us down there, -Aren looked at me, astonished. -It will close after we enter.
-So, this is your secret hideout?
-I used to practice with my father here.
A look of compassion passed through his eyes. I hurried to enter the basement, not wanting his pity.
-Are you coming? - I asked when I saw that he wasn't moving.
He shifted in his place. I could sense he didn't like the darkness.
-Of course, - he added, and we both descended into the basement that had witnessed so many things.