ALVARA
I'll never forget it. I was just turning ten, a milestone in my young life. Vanadias was bathed in the warm glow of a perfect day, the kind that made you want to dance barefoot through the meadows.
I had pleaded Father to accompany me for my sword practice. He was always so busy, being the King and all, but I knew he would understand. After all, I was growing up, and it was important to learn how to protect myself.
Mother, Queen Tanya Teraquin, was even busier than Father. She was always working late, trying to make our kingdom even better. I understood that, of course. They were both working tirelessly for our people.
But sometimes, I couldn't help but feel a little lonely. Allen, my younger brother, was still too young to understand the weight of our responsibilities. He was content playing with our cousins, and I didn't blame him. It was up to me and Kendel to step up.