My Last Command

As I carefully seal the letter inside a wooden box, a familiar knock resonates on the door of my chamber.

"My lord, I have arrived," a voice I hold dear announces, its warm timbre echoing through the room. I invite him in, acknowledging his presence.

"I believe I've urged you to address me by the name bestowed upon me, have I not?" I remark, concealing the box beneath my bed with a calculated gesture.

"You know of the immense respect I hold for you, my lord," he replies, stepping across the threshold, his gaze filled with unwavering loyalty. He places his sword upon the table where I had penned my words.

In the presence of his familiar countenance and round voice, a bittersweet smile graces my lips. Theodore, once my staunch adversary, has become my closest confidant. "Some things never change, do they, Theodore?" I remark, settling upon my modest wooden bed.

"I have found you worthy of my respect, my lord. That will forever remain," he responds, his tone laced with genuine kindness.

"It was indeed fate that led me to save you on that fateful day. I am eternally grateful for your unwavering service, Theodore."

"It has been my solemn duty to serve you since that moment."

"Then, this shall be my final command," I declare, rising from my seat and advancing towards him. As I draw near, I place my hand upon his armored shoulder, forging a bond between us. "Let us fight together until our last breath," I continue, locking eyes with him, the weight of our shared destiny palpable in the air.

In that moment, I can sense the flicker of excitement in his gaze. The day I once promised him has arrived, where we shall battle as if there is no tomorrow, ready to meet our fates head-on.

"Yes, my lord!" he responds with unwavering determination, his arm snapping across his chest in a final salute. It is a resolute affirmation of his commitment to my final command.

His unwavering response brings a sense of peace to my heart, prompting a final smile to grace my lips. We hold each other's gaze for a moment, the unspoken understanding between us bridging the gap.

With a gentle tap on his shoulder, I break the connection, my voice soft yet resolute. "Now, wait for me outside," I instruct him, conveying my trust in his loyalty and unwavering commitment.

He nods, his eyes reflecting a mix of determination and concern. As he turns to leave the chamber, a pang of realization strikes me. How did I become so blind to the darkness lurking within those who surrounded me? Was it the overwhelming love and kindness you showered upon me, my dear Reigne, that led me to overlook the shadows that clouded their hearts?

A wave of introspection washes over me, stirring the depths of my soul. The price I paid for my naivety becomes painfully clear, and I vow to tread the path ahead with newfound wisdom and discernment.