Chapter 23: Mother and daughter

The aftermath of Alexa's betrayal sent shockwaves throughout the kingdom, tarnishing the reputation of the once-respected Evergreen family. While it seemed harsh to implicate the entire family in Alexa's downfall, there was a unanimous sentiment among Aurelius, Marcella, Theodore, Magnus, and Maximus: to ensure the complete annihilation of the Evergreen family. It was a harsh lesson in the politics of power—leaving even a remnant of an enemy alive could invite future reprisals and threats to stability. 

Marcella lay in bed, her strength sapped by Alexa's attack. Though the poison had been purged from her body, the toll it took lingered in her weakened state. She had expended her power shielding Eternia, a sacrifice she made willingly despite the danger it posed to her own life. Even in her weakened state, her beauty remained undeniable, though the vibrant glow that usually adorned her features had dimmed. Still, her resilience and inner strength shone through, a testament to her unwavering determination. 

In the quiet of the chamber, Eternia's voice trembled with worry as she clasped her mother's hand. "How do you feel?" she asked, her eyes reflecting the turmoil within. The weight of guilt pressed heavily upon her, despite her mother's reassuring smile. 

Marcella's hand weakened but still comforting, gently enveloped Eternia's. "My dear, I'm alright," she replied, her voice a soothing melody in the room. "Your safety was my priority, and I would do it all over again to shield you from harm." Her smile, though weary, held a depth of maternal love that eased the ache in Eternia's heart.

Tears welled in Eternia's eyes as she struggled with her emotions. "But you were hurt because of me," she whispered, the weight of her words heavy in the air. 

Marcella's gentle smile softened as she squeezed Eternia's hand reassuringly. "My dear, don't blame yourself," she said softly. "I would do anything to protect you, no matter the cost. It was my choice to shield you, and I would make that choice again without hesitation. You are my daughter, and your safety is my utmost priority." She brushed a stray tear from Eternia's cheek, her gaze filled with love and understanding. "You are not to blame for what happened, my sweet Eternia. We faced a trial together, and we emerged stronger for it."

Eternia's voice was solemn as she delivered the news, her eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation. "Father has successfully divorced Lady Alexa," she reported. "There wasn't a trial, and everything went smoothly due to her attack." Pausing to gather her thoughts, she continued, "The trial for their treason will commence once you're well and out of bed. I heard that... The entire House will meet their end."

Marcella regarded her daughter with a firm and unwavering expression. "A vital lesson for you to grasp early, my princess, is the necessity of cutting weeds before they can take root," she imparted, her tone carrying the weight of experience. "As a ruler, we are tasked with making difficult decisions. They may not be pleasant, but they are imperative. Our people depend on us to ensure the stability and safety of our realm. If a threat arises and we fail to act, we risk being perceived as weak and vulnerable." With a gentle touch, Marcella cupped Eternia's cheek, imparting a mother's wisdom. "They must face the consequences," she affirmed. "This won't be the first challenge you encounter. People will attempt to undermine you, and it will fall upon you to wield your power and authority to confront them."

A solemn hush enveloped the room, accentuating the weightiness of Marcella's words. Eternia, though young, absorbed her mother's wisdom with a mature understanding that belied her age. 

Marcella continued, "I heard Gareth Sapphirepeak put your life at risk with the ogre attack. He's another weed that needs to be cut down; however, he may be of use to me." Marcella smiled. "His loyalty has always been to me and not your father. He is an ambitious man who has the potential to overthrow your father and your throne. But it seems that my arrival and him realizing you have my favor changes things. He won't harm you again, but he might insist on taking your hand for his son." Marcella paused, continuing, "I offered him the hand of one of your sisters, so I wanted to ask your thoughts on marriage. More specifically, if you are to be betrothed to one of Sapphirepeak's sons." Marcella brushed her fingers through Eternia's hair. "I know that you're seven, but marriage is inevitable. I want to hear your voice in the matter before we plan the match. I'm certain your father would be as considerate as I am, though I see that he favors Max's child."

Eternia paused, considering her response carefully. "My thoughts on marriage... It's true that I'm young, but I've given it some thought. I understand the importance of forging alliances for the stability of our realm, so I trust your judgment and Father's."

Marcella's hand alighted on Eternia's shoulder, her smile a soft beacon in the dimly lit chamber. "You possess wisdom," she said, her voice a melody threaded with intrigue. "But if fate granted you the choice... Sapphirepeak or Solaris?"

Choose between the great houses? I believe Zachary is the one they intend me to wed and Alexander is the other… "Politically?" Eternia asked. 

Marcella's hand moved to rest on Eternia's shoulder, her touch gentle yet filled with significance. "It's not just about politics," she explained, her voice carrying a weight of understanding. "I want to know your true feelings. As a girl, as a person—not just as the princess." 

Eternia nodded, absorbing Marcella's words. "You see, Eternia, you're the future of two realms," Marcella continued, her tone gentle yet firm. "But even so, I'd like you to have a love match. If not a love match, then at least to have a person you could have a good, meaningful friendship with." 

Marcella's thoughts wandered briefly to her own past, her voice tinged with reminiscence. "A friend is better than a stranger. And honestly, love often blooms from friendship."

Eternia's grin was mischievous as she probed further. "Is that how it happened with you and father?" she inquired, her curiosity shining bright in her eyes. 

Marcella gently pinched Eternia's cheek, a playful gesture to ease the tension. "Let's not make this about me and your father, Eternia," she chided lightly, a faint blush gracing her cheeks at the mention of his name. "But yes, it's true. Well, honestly, the first time I laid eyes on Aurelius, my heart skipped a beat. I had never seen a boy as captivating as he was. Yet, at that moment, all I desired was to be his friend." She paused, a wistful smile gracing her lips. "Now, tell me, who do you choose?"

Eternia's grin widened, delighted to glean insight into her parents' romance. She mulled over her options, her mind swirling with thoughts. Who do I choose? Alexander, the one with whom I've shared countless moments, or Zachary, whose intentions remain veiled in mystery?

"Eternia?" Marcella's voice broke through Eternia's reverie, pulling her back to the present moment. 

"Oh," Eternia replied, blinking as she refocused. "I don't know Zachary that well, to be honest, but he's kind. He welcomed me graciously, and he handled me with care." Pausing, she considered her words carefully before continuing. "And Alexander…"

"Alexander?" Marcella prompted, her eyes attentive, waiting for Eternia's revelation. 

Eternia met Marcella's gaze with a weighty sigh, her heart heavy with the burden of her confession. "I really liked him, Mother," she admitted, her voice tinged with vulnerability, "But... when he saw my scars, everything shifted. I became nothing more than Lady Alexa's weapon, distant and detached. And his reaction... it hurt. He made it seem like my scars defined me like they were the only reason he saw me as worth knowing. It felt like pity."

Marcella's expression softened with understanding as she reached out to her daughter, a silent gesture of comfort and solidarity. "Eternia," she murmured, her voice gentle yet firm. Gathering the fabric of her dress, she revealed the scar on her own leg, tracing its faded lines with tender reverence. "Your father and I faced a similar trial," she confessed, her touch light against the mark of her past. "This scar, given to me by my own mother, once sparked a similar change in Aurelius's demeanor. I, too, feared it was merely pity. But in time, I learned it was genuine care."

Grandmother gave that to her? Her own flesh and blood? Eternia's disbelief hung heavy in the air as she traced the scar on Marcella's leg, her heart heavy with sadness. "How could your own mother do such a thing to you?" she whispered, her voice filled with incredulity and compassion.

Marcella's gaze softened, a somber shadow crossing her features as she recalled her past. "She sought the perfect daughter," she explained, her voice tinged with sorrow. Yet, despite the pain of her memories, a gentle smile graced her lips as she tucked a stray lock of Eternia's hair behind her ear. "But I seek something far greater," she continued, her tone filled with warmth and affection. "I seek your happiness, my dear daughter." Tears welled in Eternia's eyes at her mother's words, overwhelmed by the depth of her love and gratitude. "I'm grateful for the chance to rebuild our relationship," Marcella expressed, her voice soft yet resolute. "Thank you, my miracle child." Leaning in, she pressed a tender kiss to Eternia's forehead, sealing their bond with a promise of love and healing. 

"So," Eternia began, her voice hesitant yet earnest, "what do you advise? I can't shake this feeling of guilt for how I've treated Alexander…"

Marcella's grin widened, a glimmer of mischief dancing in her eyes. "So, you've made your choice then?" she teased, her tone light yet knowing. 

Eternia's grin widened mischievously as she spoke. "Ah, no, no," she chuckled lightly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "If I were to be completely honest, my choice would be Adrian."

Marcella's reaction was immediate, her breath catching in her throat as she struggled to comprehend Eternia's words. "What?" she gasped, her surprise evident in the tone of her voice.

With a casual shrug, Eternia continued, her expression earnest yet playful. "You did say friendship was paramount," she reminded her mother. "And Adrian fits the bill perfectly. He's been by my side for as long as I can remember, a steadfast companion who truly cares for me. While it's not the kind of affection father holds for you," she added, a hint of warmth in her tone, "I value him deeply as a friend."

Marcella's brows furrowed with concern as she sought clarification. "The mage?" she clarified, her voice laced with apprehension. "Your sworn protector?"

Eternia's nod was solemn, confirming Marcella's fears. 

A shadow crossed Marcella's features, her worry etched in the lines of her expression. "My dear," she began, her voice tinged with urgency, "He is no ordinary magic wielder. He is an ancient warlock, with powers that have spanned generations. People like him live an immortal life, if not met with destruction." 

Pausing to gather her thoughts, Marcella continued with a note of caution. "I do not discount the value of your friendship with him," she admitted, her tone softening. "But I urge you to consider the implications. I do not foresee a future with him. Instead, I see the possibility of heartache and disparity. I envision you, tears staining your cheeks... or perhaps, I see you, years from now, weathered by time, while he remains forever unchanged."

Eternia's curiosity sparked as she posed her question. "Is there truly no way to live forever?" she inquired, her tone tinged with fascination. 

Marcella's nod was solemn as she confirmed Eternia's inquiry. "Indeed, there is a way," she revealed, her voice carrying a hint of mystery. "Hidden somewhere in the world lies a garden known as Nede. Within its sacred grounds, ancient trees and plants bear fruit imbued with extraordinary gifts. Among them, one offers the coveted gift of eternal youth—the very gift that Adrian possesses." 

Eternia's question hung in the air, laden with uncertainty. "Do you think Adrian would consider my hand?" she ventured, her voice tinged with hope. 

Marcella's response was immediate, her worry palpable. "Why?" she countered, her tone fraught with concern. "Please tell me this is a joke."

Eternia's grin widened mischievously as she reassured her mother. "It is," she admitted with a playful twinkle in her eye." Still, she couldn't help but wonder about the possibilities. Would he consider it though? Would Adrian accept my proposal if I asked? I don't wish to have a shattered heart as my parents did… Adrian is a friend and brother-like person to me. He would be a great choice to avoid such heartache.

Aurelius's presence brought a sense of calm to the room as he greeted them with a polite nod. "Good day," he began, his voice carrying a warmth that belied his concern. "I just came to check if you're alright."

Marcella acknowledged his gesture with a gracious smile. "I am," she assured him, her gratitude evident in her words. "Thank you for your hospitality, Aurelius. It's much appreciated."

Eternia interjected with a sense of assurance. "I've already reported the plans to Mother," she informed him, her tone confident. "You don't have to worry about anything else."

Aurelius's smile remained gentle as he delivered his unexpected news. "Once everything is done, you're to go to Crystalia," he announced calmly, his tone carrying a sense of finality. "Adrian will join you, and I'll come to visit you often."

Eternia's gasp of disbelief hung heavy in the air. "What?" she exclaimed, her voice filled with confusion and apprehension. "What do you mean?"

Aurelius's expression softened as he explained his decision. "I've decided to let you return to Crystalia," he stated simply, his gaze steady. "Your mother will take care of you from now on…"

"Eternia struggled to process her father's words, her heart torn between love for her mother and a reluctance to leave her father's side. "Father…"

Aurelius's reassurance brought a glimmer of comfort to Eternia's troubled heart. "I'll visit often," he promised, his voice tender as he leaned in to kiss her cheek. 

"But why do I have to leave?" Eternia persisted, her confusion evident in her tone. "I like it here... Sapphiria is my home. I want to be with Mother, but..."

Aurelius's kiss conveyed his love and determination to see her well again. "You'll return once you're completely healed," he swore solemnly, his words a vow of commitment. "But for now, you must stay in Crystalia. You must do your best to heal."

I want to stay here with you, Father…