19 Let’s Begin (chapter 18)

I was following her. Sprinting as fast as our legs could take us. The constant crunch of the fallen leaves and branches underneath our feet echoed throughout the forest. We were running. Karina was leading the way. Her black hair unable to keep up flowing behind her in the wind. Like a black banner waving ther arrival. She was fast not stumbling once. She knew the terrain, she came here almost daily, She was able to adapt to it, her technique,Flawless. Me on the other hand. Well I am a foreigner, the random placement of branches and uneven terrain caught me off guard allowing me to falter and slow down. She could hear my grunts of fear of falling and her giggles were reflected In The trees. The tournament was starting and we were to participate. Out of the roots of Darkness, a pack of wolves charged straight for Karina. My heart almost exploded and my powers were on it's highest alert. But instead of attacking her they ran by her side. Escorting her, protecting her. I was in awe. The alpha overtook her and lead her in the direction we were heading. It was like she was part of the pack. She was in need of help and they sensed it and came to her rescue. I have never seen such a bond between Man and Nature. The Drums beat echoed through the forest. That was the second calling, we wouldn't have been late but We got caught up in talking. Minutes turned into hours, but I felt that time stood still wherever she was just to admire her. We didn't realise where the time had gone.

After a few minutes of relentless sprinting I caught up to her. She looked over at me, her expression content as it was her free with nature, free of all stress, free of all judgement. Just me and her, in her favourite place, Which was soon becoming mine. The wolves embraced me and ran also by my side. She looked and had the biggest smile on her face. The pack had accepted me, because Karina had accepted me. We ran side by side In full strokes like animals do, neither of us wanting a destination. This was enough for us. Being together was enough for us. The Castle was in view. Yet sadly, it was primitive that We make it back undetected.

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We stop at the back gate. the wolves disperse back into the trees. Karina bows to the alpha, I follow in her lead and bow as well to thank him. And to my amazement he bows back, to BOTH ME and KARINA! What the actual fuck!? I stand there amazed at what I had just witnessed and she brushed it off like it's a natural occurrence. I'm really starting to fall in love with this place. Catching our breath as the sprint was riveting. We laughed as we couldn't believe we made it back in time. We caught our breath and I was no longer able to restrain myself. I pulled her in for a long kiss, her on her tip toes to reach my lips and I bent down caressing her waist engulfing her body with my own. I didn't want to pull away, but for both our sakes it was the wisest desicion. With great difficulty we parted ways to get suited up for this tournament. She was gone in the blink of an eye. I was Slightly annoyed we didn't get more time. But I was sure, that it wouldn't be the last time.

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My armour was white. I laughed in my head because they had to get it specially made as they despised this color. I was the last tent, they didn't expect me to want to fight in this tournament. Father made the king add me In at the last minute. Typical egotistical move. Karina's tent was the all black on with their flag featuring a black wolf blew right on top. I knew she would be there with Drake most likely. After Ryan, Karina and Drake were the best fighters in Valtor. Part of the CREE and all. I shouldn't feel jealous but I did. I felt angered that a piece of shit was allowed to be in there with her and I wasn't. Even though she told me that she didn't feel anything for him, that didn't mean that Drake didn't feel anything for her, and wouldn't try anything brave with her.

"Damien" I see my father entering the tent.

"Father" I say turning my attention back to fixing my armour. He comes to face me. I am forced to look up meeting his pained eyes. "Yes father." I say slightly annoyed. He catches my tone.

"I saw you with that girl..Karina." he says. My breath got caught in my throat restricting air coming in and out. I steadied my voice realising my mouth was suddenly dry and there was cold sweat dripping off my brow. If he knew about us, he'd kill me and more importantly her. That I wouldn't allow to happen.

"Yes Father I was with her, I was doing what you asked." I say lying through my teeth hoping I my lie wouldn't be detected.

"DONT LIE TO ME BOY!" He shouted sending a wave through my bones. I was on alert, but it wasn't fear but an intense anger. I would kill him, if he threatened her. When it came to her don't cross me Or you can pay for it with your life.

"I understand a man's urges and they have to be satisfied. But.. not with her. Is that understood. Now win this and send fear into these vulgar Nightslayers. They should bend the knee to House Lucent!" He turned on his heel and left instilling these foul words to me. I take a few breaths but I think i'd rather use this anger to dominate in the tournament. Enraged I make my way to the field.

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The Moon shines brighter than usual, it must be due to the arrival of the new king, or the excitement of a moon born princess. The brightest black flame lit up the field, with a green patch of grass high in the air in the middle of the ground. The fighting ground.

I looked around for her. People were hustling and bustling in excitement of the up and coming events. This tournament is an annual event. Karina told me anyone can fight no matter your station, and the prizes were to die for. But this year's tournament was especially anticipated because there was an arrival of a new king. Meaning, this year People will be more motivated to impress and get in favours with the king. People could also become knights and part of the CREE from this tournament. It was for fun, but more an opportunity for the people to prove themselves in the king's guard. Karina loved it because she was usually the only woman who wanted to participate. And never won because of her brother. But this year she said she would win. Hopefully inspiring other young witches to participate. I could feel the energy and the Atmosphere within the warriors was electric. Me on the other hand, could feel the daggers being shot at me from their eyes all drenched in hate and disgust. All I needed was one glimpse of her smile and I would have the universe bow at my feet. She gave me strength. I see her emerge from the tent, her hair tied into a long pony showing off her large eyes and high cheek bones. I see her dimples as she looks in my direction. Her pink lips miming 'good luck my love' filled me with content as she walked to her spot.

"Prince Lucent please take your spot Infront of your house's flag." A young squire said to me ushering me to the play. I take my place Infront of my flag, mirroring the other warriors and take out my sword and get on both knees using my sword as a staff . Ryan gets up on the podium, Edward Darvos on his right slightly sober now.

"Warrior of Dark, and Light" he says looking at me. I smile as he acknowledged my house.

"Tomorrow I will be coronated OFFICIALLY as King of Valtor. I hope to be a great king, that puts my people first." Everyone mumbles in agreement. "I apologize for the late notice, I had no idea that this was going to come (cough) so soon. Warriors, this year's prize will be the exact location of the Tree of Iqra" everyone gasps with their eyes so wide to this prize. I had no fuckijg idea what this bloody tree was. I was fighting to see a tree!?

"Now Let the tournament COMMENCE!"

Yes, let's begin.