LOGIN“I do hope your reputation isn’t exaggerated. Oh, how quaint too. I really do hope you’re able to keep up with his highness.” She said, and just like that, she leaned back, clearly finished with the greetings."Melira." Aramisius warned from in between his teeth. The rest of the table remained silent. Santos, seated beside Aeryl, leaned sideways with a grin. “Well, at least she didn’t throw her fork at you.” He whispered in a playful tone. “Small victories, yes?”Aeryl gave a small, nervous smile."I must take my leave." Princess Melira suddenly said.And just like that, she left, leaving a faint scent of expensive perfume.The rest of the dinner unfolded in awkward silence. Aramisius only sat opposite Aeryl, quietly. Often, his eyes met hers across the table.When the meal finally ended, Aeryl sighed, fingers trembling slightly. She was glad that it was finally over.********Aeryl lay in bed. Nena's whispers never stopped as she straightening Aeryl's nightgown, smoothing her hai
Food was thrown at everyone. Children held out their palms. The eating arena was a dirty and dilapidated area where very meagre amount of food was served. The servers were bald, hefty men in black robes with no place for a smile on their stony faces.Foods were served to children in their hands so food was rationed according to the size of their palms.Adults were served foods on round leaves as a chanceful grace for them not to die at work even though some ended up not surviving. Vinn, Rhea and Nizelda successfully took their shares and went to squat at a corner.Then, Vinn began to whisper loudly with so much verve in his eyes – which was a great contrast in this situation. "Mother, I have plans for us. For everyone."Rhea smiled wanely, the sides of her tired grey eyes crinkling but her voice shook when she replied."My child, I believe you but...."Vinn quickly gripped her shoulders, gently. "Trust me, mother. I have been marked by the Queen-witch's flight. It circled me last
Aramisius’ eyes flickered but he stepped back. Without another word, he left, the door clicking softly behind him.Aeryl sank down back, heart hammering. She was angry, scared, and restless all at once. And she knew this whole thing had only just started.********Faraway, in the land of the Tibetian Gnomes, Pitshu and Markin, the uncountable battalion of armoured soldiers gathered before the Most High Cave of Valor.On the high, layered stones stood Ser Finis, flanked by three comrades. He was the grandcommander. Aged and burly but still speaking with a spark in his funny voice. He yelled out."Listen! The Vessel has been hidden behind the walls of Theartera. Heh!" He paused for a moment like he wanted the news to sink in. "Do you know what it means?"The thousands of soldiers said nothing but stare up at him, curiously. Ser Finis frowned and increased his voice one more octave."Well, if anyone of you blockheads do not know what it means, then I'll tell you."He paused again. "K
Aeryl stiffened, staring at the ceiling. Her pulse rose and yet, her jaw tightened in irritation. Of course he had to come in, didn't he?“I’ve received reports....” He said, voice low and dangerous, as he stopped at the foot of her bed. “....that you enjoy skipping meals.”"And what if I do?” She shot back, trying to keep her voice steady even as heat crept up her neck. “Does it concern you.... or are you just here to watch me suffer?”He didn’t move away. Instead, he walked closer, filling the space between them. “Do not mistake observation for concern, Aeryl.” He said, voice dropping. “You are mine to command. You will not waste what is required of you.”“What is required of me?”"Too much you'd be overwhelmed when you find out."“You’re crazy.” She muttered through gritted teeth, pressing her back into the pillows.Aramisius’ gaze flicked down her body and back up, slow and deliberately that it was impossible not to feel exposed under that stare. “Good.” He said softly, almost to
“To hell and back.” Aramisius cursed under his breath.The men bowed deeper.“Sit.” Aramisius ordered at last.They obeyed.A commander cleared his throat, his armor clinking as he leaned forward.“My lord… the princess is a golden force. She will be sought after very soon. I hope… her purchase remains a secret.”Aramisius laughed dryly. “Anyone who tries to come for what is mine will be ripped into shreds. The world knows.”There was silence again. Then the head of soldiers, Ser Dekanthros, rose slowly. His voice was steady, but edged with warning.“Prince Aramisius, my lord of the Outboards and Theartera. I still believe we should keep our lights burning, our ears open, our shields ready, and our eyes wide. War will come. Like never before.”Aramisius leaned forward, eyes burning. “We are the head of warforces in the world, Dekanthros. We are in alliance with the timetravelling scientists’ clan. When it comes to war, we do what is needed. Do not forget that.”The court bowed low ag
At the far end of the corridor stood a princess, taller, older, dressed in flowing silks that shined even in the dim light. She moved forward slowly, her expression one of concern.Aeryl wiped her eyes with shaking hands. "I-I just needed... I can't-"The princess knelt before her, smoothing the gown gently over Aeryl's bare shoulders as though she were an older sister."Hush now. Don't fight the tears. I know he is... overwhelming. More than most can endure." Her voice was calm, deliberate, full of understanding.Aeryl choked back another sob. "I didn't want him to. I didn't stop him....""I know." The princess murmured, dabbing softly at her cheeks with her folded kerchief. "I know what he is capable of. You're not the first he's unsettled. And you won't be the last." She sighed deeply.She gently helped Aeryl to her feet.For a moment, Aeryl felt a flicker of relief that someone believed her, someone understood. She leaned into the princess' hand, desperate for the comfort."You mu







