Chapter one : The Promise
As the first golden rays of the sun filtered softly through the tall, ornate window of the princess's chamber, the quiet morning suddenly stirred into lively activity. One maid hurried in, carefully holding a delicate dress, another entered carrying a tray laden with breakfast and a third approached with a pair of finely crafted shoes. After all, Princess Serain was not just any royal, she was the only daughter of the Avirath Kingdom, cherished and spoiled beyond measure, especially by her elder brother, the future king, and their beloved parents, the King and Queen of Avirath.
Princess Serain is known simply as Sera to those closest to her. Her long, silken hair, pure as freshly fallen snow, cascaded down her back like a shimmering waterfall. Her skin was milky and flawless, glowing softly in the morning light. Her eyes, the deep blue of a clear summer sky, were framed by long, dark lashes that fluttered gently as she stirred awake. There was an ethereal softness to her, a delicate fluffiness that made her seem almost otherworldly. Yet, beneath this tender appearance lay a figure sculpted to perfection. At that moment, she wore nothing but a night-blue lingerie set, its rich hue contrasting beautifully against her pale skin.
Serain smiled warmly at Aira, her favorite maid and childhood companion, as the young woman helped her slip into the morning dress. Unlike the others, Aira was more than a maid in Serain's eyes. she was a true friend. Though they were the same age, both twenty but Aira's short blonde hair and striking light brown eyes set her apart, a lively contrast to Sera's own ethereal appearance.
"Prince Kaelith is waiting for you in the garden" Aira said, her smile bright with excitement.
Sera's face lit up with a radiant smile in return.
Prince Kaelith, the future ruler of Daslane Kingdom, was renowned throughout the realms. Tall and commanding, with golden blonde hair and piercing purple eyes, his sharp jawline bespoke nobility and fierce determination. Though his temper was infamous, Sera admired the strength behind his often stern gaze.
Their families had arranged their engagement, a bond sealed by alliance and growing affection alike. Their wedding was set for two week from now a union both anticipated with eager hearts.
"Oh, you should have told me sooner!" Sera exclaimed, quickly donning her magnificent royal green gown. The fabric shimmered with intricate floral embroidery, each petal and vine painstakingly crafted to perfection. With a graceful twirl, she made her way toward the garden, her heart pounding with joy to see her future husband.
The garden was bathed in soft sunlight, vibrant with the fragrance of blooming roses and the gentle hum of bees. Princess Serain stepped lightly onto the gravel path, her emerald gown sweeping gracefully behind her. Waiting by the marble fountain stood Prince Kaelith, his usual stern expression softened by a faint, almost unreadable smile.
"Good morning, Sera my love" Kaelith greeted, his purple eyes locking onto hers with unusual intensity.
"Good morning, Kaelith," she replied warmly, stepping closer. "The garden looks beautiful today, just like you"
Kaelith chuckled lowly, a sound unfamiliar yet oddly comforting. "You always know what to say." making Serain giggle.
As they began to stroll together, their conversation drifted to the upcoming wedding.
"only two weeks away now" Serain said, her voice was light but sincere. "Are you ready for this new chapter?"
Kaelith's eyes darkened momentarily, a shadow passing across his face. "As ready as I'll ever be."
Serain noticed the subtle change but chose to ignore it. She believed their bond was strong enough to weather any doubts.
Before more could be said, the heavy footsteps of a third presence interrupted them.
"Sera" came in a deep, commanding voice.
Her older brother, Raiden, approached swiftly, his presence as imposing as ever. Towering even above Kaelith, Raiden's broad shoulders and powerful build radiated strength and authority. His short, snow-white hair was neatly kept, contrasting sharply with his piercing blue eyes that scanned Kaelith with quiet intensity, revealing a mind always alert and protective.
Without hesitation, Raiden pulled Serain into a protective embrace.
"Your Majesty" Kaelith bowed respectfully, recognizing the seniority and strength of the future king.
Raiden nodded curtly, eyes flickering toward Kaelith with measured appraisal.
The three exchanged brief words, polite, cautious and loaded with unspoken meaning.
"mother called you, sera" Raiden said, his gaze softening slightly as he addressed Serain. "It's time to prepare for the market visit. You should go."
Serain smiled at Kaelith and Raiden before turning to leave, her footsteps light but her heart heavy with the subtle tension hanging in the air.
As she disappeared behind the garden's tall hedges, Raiden's gaze hardened. His eyes bore into Kaelith's with a fierce intensity.
"I hope you are fully aware of who you are marrying, Prince Kaelith Kailyn," Raiden said lowly, his voice laced with warning then left the garden.
Kaelith's jaw clenched in anger. Without a word, he stormed off, violently throwing a nearby teacup to the ground, where it shattered into countless pieces.
Serain entered the grand hall of the palace, where Queen Sandra awaited her with a warm smile. The queen's blonde hair with beautiful pink shining pink eyes framed a face of serene beauty and gentle wisdom. Serain lowered herself into a graceful bow, a gesture filled with respect and love.
"Did you meet Kaelith? How is he doing?" Queen Sandra asked softly, her eyes twinkling with genuine curiosity.
Sera smiled shyly, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "He's doing great and very excited for the wedding."
The queen's smile deepened, radiating happiness for her daughter. "Good. I'm glad to hear that."
"We're going to the market to invite our people to your wedding" the queen said, gently patting Serain's head.
Serain's eyes widened slightly in surprise. "But, Mother, can't we send the royal guards to invite them? It seems more fitting."
Queen Sandra shook her head with a kind smile. "This is your wedding, Sera. You'll be leaving soon, and it's better that you go and invite them personally. Your kindness will be their lasting memory of you. After all, they are your people."
Her voice was like a melody,pure, soothing, and full of warmth. Serain felt as if she were hearing the words of a goddess herself and nodded solemnly.
Together, they left the royal chambers and boarded a grand carriage, rolling toward the bustling city market.
As they arrived, the crowd quickly gathered, bowing deeply and showering the princess and queen with flowers, love, and heartfelt affection. The people adored their royal family, for the king and queen had always treated them like family with kindness, fairness and generous rulers.
Standing at the center of the square, Serain cleared her throat, her voice ringing clear and heartfelt.
"Dear beloved people of Avirath, It fills my heart with joy to stand before you today. In just two weeks, I will join my life with Prince Kaelith Kailyn of Daslane, forging a bond that unites our kingdoms and our futures. This wedding is not just a celebration of love between two hearts, but a promise to serve you better and protect the peace we all cherish. I invite you all to join us in the festivities, to share in our happiness and hopes for the days to come.
Thank you for your endless support and love, it means everything to me."
As she finished, a quiet murmur of approval rose from the crowd.
Just as she turned to leave, her eyes caught sight of a pair of green eyes locking with hers across the square. The gaze was intense, unflinching. For a moment, Serain's breath caught, the first thought that crossed her mind was simply 'beautiful like my flowers'
His face was smudged with coal dust, and beads of sweat glistened on his brow from the heat and hard labor. Yet, despite this, there was something captivating about him, a raw and honest presence that drew her in.
Serain's gaze lingered on the crowd for a moment before her eyes returned to the striking green-eyed man. Without hesitation, she lifted her hand and pointed at him.
"You....come here" she commanded.
Every head in the square turned toward the man. Slowly, almost hesitantly, he stepped forward until he stood before the princess. Dropping to his knees, he bowed deeply, his forehead almost touching the ground. His eyes, though full of curiosity, never dared to meet hers.
Sera leaned down slightly, tilting her head as she studied his face. "Hmm… I'm taking you with me" she announced.
Gasps rippled through the crowd. Even the man froze in shock, unsure if he had heard her correctly.
"Serain?" the queen's voice cut in, laced with confusion.
Sera turned toward her mother with an innocent smile. "I've always wanted someone pretty like him to take care of my garden."
The green-eyed man's face flushed crimson, his eyes lighting up with honor at her words.
Queen Sandra sighed, shaking her head slightly, but there was fondness in her expression. "Very well" she said, allowing her daughter's whims to stand.
The young man followed them back to the royal mansion in quiet disbelief. Upon arrival, Serain ordered the royal guards to prepare a room for him, ensure he was well-fed, and see that he rested warmly.
Later, Aira entered his new quarters carrying a tray of steaming food. He had just finished bathing, his skin scrubbed clean of soot, his hair brushed smooth. His room was modest but warm, complete with a comfortable bed, clean clothes, and all the necessities of a decent life. For someone who had slept on the streets, it felt like a palace within the palace.
"I'm Aira" she said warmly, setting the tray on the bed. "If you need anything else, let me know. I'm the princess's best friend and personal maid." She gave a respectful bow.
"Thank you, miss Aira" he replied quietly.
"What's your name?" Aira asked, curious.
"I… don't have one. People call me whatever they want." His voice was awkward, tinged with embarrassment.
He explained that he had never known his parents because they abandoned him at birth. An old grandmother had raised him, though she rarely called him by any name, using only "hey," "oi," "useless," or "burden." She passed away when he was eight, and since then he has lived on the streets. He survived on scraps of bread and potatoes, managing somehow to stay healthy and strong despite the hardships.
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( The Next Day )
Sera summoned him to the royal gardens. a vast paradise of life and color. The air was fragrant with roses, lilies, and jasmine. Marble fountains sparkled in the sunlight, their waters catching rainbows. Neatly trimmed hedges framed pathways lined with tulips and peonies, while rare orchids bloomed in sheltered corners. Butterflies flitted among blossoms, and the gentle hum of bees blended with the soothing trickle of water.
The man knelt before Serain, his head bowed.
"Look up" she commanded.
He obeyed, meeting her gaze for the first time.
"Aira told me you don't have a name," she said thoughtfully. "So, I'll give you one." Her eyes scanned him as she thought aloud. "hmmm.... Azar"
Finally, she smiled. "From now on, your name will be Azar"
The young man's heart swelled. The name felt warm, like a gift he had been waiting for all his life.
"Your Highness" he said, emotion thick in his voice, "thank you for everything. Till my last breath, I will do whatever you wish. I promise." He took her hand gently and pressed his lips to it.
Serain's smile widened, her tone light but with a royal edge. "Don't worry, I won't make you die for me. All you have to do is protect my garden… and die for my garden if ever needed."
"I will, Princess."
"Promise?" she asked playfully, extending her pinky finger.
His eyes widened at the unfamiliar gesture, but then softened. He hooked his pinky with hers, a faint smile curving his lips.
"Promise"