꧁Prelude꧂

꧁𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓵𝓾𝓭𝓮꧂

As my eyes began to face this horrible reality, my one and only desire is to become blind. It was a horrendous war that finished off my people. This empire is one of my dreams that I yearned for. This empire taught me how to live my life. This empire is full of love, happiness and peace. I never knew that it would be myself who's destined to bring depravity that will extinct our people. My cursed existence were one of the reasons that brought chaos upon this empire.

If only I didn't dream for love and care, then, these people could have been alive today...

Apologies, sincerities and vows are not enough to pay respect to their death. Their death was caused by me. In order for me to stay alive, I must witness thousands of people dying in front of me.

My tears fell while holding my sword with a strong grip. "I shall kill you!"

The king of Harmonia flew in the war, he approached me with his blazing armor that is already soaked with different blood. It was a bloodshed. He raised his pointed sword towards me; it was sharp yet still shining in agony. Thousands of lives in peace or not, have already been slain by it.

I shivered in anger, "Admit your defeat!" he exalted as he is pointing his sword towards my chest.

I am nothing but a futile warrior. I pledged to my beloved empire that I will sacrifice my own life to save everyone. But why did things get mess up and turn all the tables around? Why are these people risking their lives for me? I should be the one doing that!

"Are you going to kill me because the prophecy said so?" my voice trembled in anger and in fear.

The tip of his sharp sword slowly pierced my armor and I felt instantly the blood dripping from my skin. It was so sharp, and its' pain can be easily felt. I have no plans of dying in front of him right now, but I have plans of giving up my useless life.

"Any last words?"

His eyes met mine. It was cold and an icy stare just like his icy ruby eyes. His gaze is not showing any mercy. As if he had forgotten everything we had back then. I won't forget this face of yours, I will surely not forget you. For a king, I judge you as a dumb person! You believe in those prophecies that I cannot even do.

Am I not supposed to defend my innocent people when they're being killed by a ruthless man? Should I be just a decorative Queen, doing nothing for the sake of my empire?!

I can't do that. I should defend these people who loved me; however, things are getting parallel. I need to defend them but that means I also need to face you.

But I can't do that, I can't kill you. Even I'm burning in rage, I cannot kill you.

Why does my feet keeps shaking right now?

If you are dumb, then I am dumber.

Thousands of lives did my people risked for me, but here am I, hesitating to kill you for their justice.

My chest began bleeding as he slowly pierced the sword. I immediately spoke. This is my last words, no, this will not be my last, this is not how my fate will end. I will not accept this ill-fate. The oracle despises my existence because I hold something that's valuable to them. They are slandering me!

This war, these ruthless killings and even the death of my people are the result of their false accusations that lead us in despair and agony. This is a set up! Someone controls us!

But it was too late...

we were being controlled like a puppet by our fate.

What kind of consequences is this... All I wished was to be loved not to be neglected. However, when I fell in love and was loved by many, they began to die.

If loving me is a sin, do I not deserve to seek for love anymore?

What sins have I done before to be neglected, to cause so much troubles?

"King James of Harmonia, we shall meet again in our next lives. I wished you to be my ally---" I wasn't able to finish my words because he pierced my chest. I felt the flesh coming off from my mouth. It was a blood.

Then, am I really going to die just like this?

I endured the pain. My tears fell from my eyes. It was pure sadness and desperation. When I saw him crying in pain too, I smiled happily. His icy blood ruby eyes were not cold anymore, it was like a fire touching the water. His eyes are beautiful, especially when they cry. However, right now... It is filled with nothing but mere sadness.

It wasn't his desire either, we feel the same.

Because we were controlled by this fate, we can never be happy.

"I observed you many times... and wished that your death must not be made by my own hands," he cried.

I'm starting to lose control of my body. I already fell but suddenly, he dropped the sword of his and reached my head to catch me.

I was injured yet I can still raise my right hands. I touched his chin and wiped his tears of regression. It was no one's intention neither I nor him.

We are not the one to be blamed by this cruel fate of ours.

"It was not your fault..." I uttered.

"Let's lead our own fate in our next lives, shall we?" he said in his trembling voice.

I closed my eyes and gave my last energy to form a bond with my cursed magic. It was cursed. I used it to form a weapon against him. I felt his blood dripping above me. I stabbed the man I loved.

My sins... were... finally... atoned...

For the sake of the thousand lives that had died, I wish you nothing but peace...

"P-Please..." I muttered.

I tried to open my eyes to see his figure, my hands fell down and things were starting to get blurry. His eyes were still filled with tears.

If I'm going to die, then I think, my regrets are now gone. He feels the same thing with me. I could blame myself for these, but it was not our fault. We were manipulated by the thing they called fate.

My people were have been wiped out already, and it was so unfair that we are the one that had lost the battle. We just fought for our innocence. A mere lady couldn't do such things like murdering. It was not my intention! How can they frame me up? Just because of their greed? Very unreasonable!

And the King---James believed in such stuffs. He began to lose his trust for me. His love was not enough.

Is the love I was expecting wasn't enough? Wasn't enough that he slayed me in his own hands because of that damned prophecy. He was afraid of being corrupted but never did he know that those people whom he trust were have been corrupted already.

I am a victim. He was a victim. I was killed because of everyone's greed and selfishness. He was killed because he was too kind and responsible as a king.

We wanted to be together that's why we successfully ended each other's life.

I felt his body fell over me and he was still embracing me. In the 2 decades of my existence, the only thing I regretted, is to meet him and be destined to kill him. No matter how many times I prove the world that I loved him, I am still the person who will kill him.

This life were full of torments and sufferings. I am not allowed to be loved, and all I do is to hurt others without my intention.

In my next life, I wish to be with your side no matter what. Even if I don't receive love and care anymore, I will be alright. If this yearning will be the reason of my agony, then I will not yearn anymore.

"Coronia... It's a good empire, right?"

I smiled with my own heart as I am walking with Alice. She was a beautiful noble woman who bought me. She was kind and nice, she fed me some delicious food I've never tasted in my whole life.

Just like me, her hair shade is the same too. We both have gold hairs. However, mine is just a result of a curse, this wasn't the shade of my hair originally.

"In this empire, you don't need to hide your true self because you have to be true to yourself. Your golden hair is beautiful, so please don't hide it for me."

Her smile brought me light on my gloomy world. She gave me hope to live. She gave me reasons to have dreams in life. She treated me like her real little sister.

She gave me a beautiful name. I was nameless before. I am no one but a slave. My fate is becoming a slave and when I was about to be sold off, this Alice saved me from slavery. But how I wished, she didn't buy me. Indeed, I had a happy life. However, if she did not save me, then I will be the person whom I meant to be. My life will be longer, and I will not meet the man I'm destined to kill. Then maybe, the empire is having peace and order right now. There would not be any death nor sorrow or even pain.

There's nothing special about me. I have no title or even a family. I live in the woods and I was cursed by the white cat. I had magic and if ever slaves had magic, that would be purely evil.

Witches were once slaves before, but they began learning sorcery. Because of this injustice world, even if their intentions are kind, they are meant to be killed because they are known for evil deeds. They were judged by people who were being eaten by greed and power. The same thing goes for me. The eyes of the people in my town are always hatred and bashful.

It wasn't even my choice to be given a divine power from a white cat. If only I could reject the white cat, then probably, I'm not treated badly.

The society never accepted me. I am nothing but a bad luck----a mishap, a misfortune. If I would be a slave, I could do more, I could do better.

"Yana, Alyanna. That would be your name." She said gently as she holds my hair. The name that she gave me, I lived for it, because it is the value of my life. Alyanna was known for her long-lost sister, and people thought that she was truly found, but the fact is, I'm not Alyanna. I am living with an identity that doesn't even belong to me. The warmth of the people greeted me, smiled at me and even accepts me with no condemnations. Their eyes are filled with pure innocence and kindness. Probably, I've met serenity here already.

Since I carried the name that Alice had given me, I felt loved and care that I never had before.

If I was truly Alyanna, then how happy would I be? How lucky Alyanna's life was. However, I am not Alyanna. Just like what the crowd says, I will only bring mishap, then, Alyanna's life will be tainted with misfortune.

In this place, I am no longer invisible. People can see me, treat me with compassion... but there are things that I can't show. It's my curse. The divine power I had. The frozen soul. The curse of the white cat.

I told Alice about it. She just smiled at me and held my hands.

"It will be alright. Here's a way. This is a magic concealing gloves, you can use them anytime." She hugged me.

"If I'm not really Alyanna, will you still accept me?" I asked unconsciously.

"Of course. What could be the other reason for you to be not accepted? I free you from slavery, because you deserve it. I named you Alyanna not to live her life, but to give your life a meaning because you remind me of my younger sister who got lost." She replied.

"Then I'll be alright!" I excitedly said.

We broke the hug and I turned my back. But she suddenly speaks some words with delicate and warning.

"But Yana! Don't tell anyone about this. Can you?" she asked.

"I promise!" I smiled with all my heart. I nodded my head and immediately left the hall

Telling a secret? That's not new to me. I believe everyone has their own secrets. If they knew about my real and true existence, then, they would be in pain. I would only cause them a boundary or a wall from me. I might even forget how to interact with other people.

If this is the meaning of my life, then I shall be Alyanna.

Since that day happened, I became a swordsman. I was fourteen years old when I trained as a warrior. Nothing but a futile warrior. I was a gem---not the adorable one, but a gem that's being hidden by someone who cannot use it for good. I thought that being a swordsman could give me any worth and be useful, but it did not happen. I lived my life living like a decoration.

I am not the only lady warrior in the army; however, they chose to not let me join them. I was Alice' sister, I should protect the inner walls of the empire. But it was one of my pledge, I shall risk my life for the sake of Coronia. To guard the outer walls and prevent the intruders came into the inner wall! But it seems like they are risking their life for my own sake!

Alice died after two years, and I was surprised. Alice was the Crowned Princess and passed the throne to me with her will. Alice saved me! I think that's enough. Coronia needs her more than me. Then why me? There are a lot of aristocrat who trains to become a queen, then why did my fate suddenly turn to this?

Is Alyanna truly lucky compare to me?

I was treated like a gem, yet I don't deserve it. I'm not even Alyanna! If I tell them right now, no one will probably believe me. Even if they believe me and hated me again, that would be better. I don't want this obligation that doesn't even belong to me. In the first place, Alyanna's life doesn't belong to me either, then now, things are getting bigger within my hands and I cannot handle such things anymore. Coronia wants me to take the throne as it was Alice' last words.

But no. I will not accept it!

Alice, I'm sorry.

But this is not my fate. I know nothing from ruling an empire.

"Alyanna of Coronia, what is your plan?" I asked myself and removed the gloves from my hands. I bit my lower lip. I can't decide things anymore. Alice is not with me.

So, I summoned my Frozen soul; the divine power that turns out to be a curse and turned it into a dagger. I cried as I cut my golden long wavy hair. I'm sorry. I used my curse for the first time just to cut out my hair. But since this was a tradition, a person who cuts their hair cuts of their ties with other people, I did it.

I was a coward, but it's my decision.

And I knew, this decision goes wrong.

It was an impulsive decision.

As I stepped away from Alyanna's life, things were getting wrong and mishaps are awaiting for me.

Seeing my reflection from the mirror in front of me made my eyes to shed tears. I felt how my chest hurt. Coronia is filled with grief and all the people here gave their trust for me to take over the throne.

But I don't deserve their trust anymore.

Everyone wants the throne except me. I don't deserve the throne. Even if they see me in that way, they might change their mind if they see the true me, that this Alyanna will only give them misfortune.

I'm a witch.

And just like what everyone thinks, witches are bringing misfortune to everyone.

If they let me lead, then, they will be in trouble. I can't, I won't do it!

No one believes me that I'm not Alyanna. Everyone seems to be kind and trust me a lot. No matter how many times I tell them, I am not Alyanna, I cannot do it, their replies would be the same, "You are Alyanna, the Alyanna we have always loved. We trust you."

And I don't deserve it. I yearned for love, but as I slowly have it, it seems like I have no place for it. I don't deserve it.

I can't use my curse upon them, maybe if they see them. They might condemn me to death by treason.

My hair's length was on the waist, but right now, it's on my neck. If they won't use me anyway, then I'll better find my self's worth. I wore my gloves again without thinking. Is this really my plan?

Everyone stayed asleep as I sang what Alice used to sing to make me asleep. I ran away. Using my own horse, I ran away. I ran away from these problems and responsibilities that I should be facing with.

These responsibilities... are not mine...

I am no longer Alyanna...

An implusive thought of mine.

I decided to go to the woods where I used to live as a child. It was the forest of Ampento. Tons of mischievous and wild animals are awaiting me, but that doesn't even bother me. I used to live here as an isolation. A curse within me is enough to make them stay away. A sword within my hips can shield me anytime they harm me.

My horse was so afraid that made it lose its balance. I tried to calm the horse, when I raise my head, it was a guy standing in front of me.

"A lady like you should not wear a warrior's uniform..." my fate brought me here. My fate made me someone I didn't know.

Lady? Should I wear gowns or dresses instead?

"It's my duty!" I lower the tone of my voice. He suddenly laughed and pointed his sword into my chest. A murderer? Is he testing me?

I was wrong... He isn't testing how tough I am. It was his destiny to put a sword in front of me and kill me.

I used my sword to snap his sword but his grip is tighter than mine that eventually snapped my sword and fell.

"A young lady like you shouldn't use sharp swords like that. You should not go alone in this cursed forest!" he drew his sword back.

Even I don't want to listen, his words already slapped me. He was right, my plan certainly failed. It is not for me; everything is not meant for me!

My impulsive decisions would only lead me out of nowhere.

"Do you believe that this forest is really cursed? Or a person was born in this forest and she was cursed?" I asked.

He was silent and didn't answered me. So, I used my right foot to kick the sword of mine that he had snapped, and it flew just right into my hand. I withdrew my sword also.

"I can protect myself; it is not your task to meddle with my life." I began using my horse to turn my back against him. The horse continued walking slowly. When I heard his deep and serious tone of his voice, the horse was scared again and began to stop walking.

"I am King James of Harmonia, I command you to---" Before finishing his words, I faced him, even a king like him can't make a path where my heart should follow.

"I shall only follow the queen or king of Coronia. I apologize for being rude, your majesty." I replied.

I turned my back on him again and started to leave him. Meeting him is risky but also the happiest moment of my life. Aside from Alice, there would a person who will show concern and care. The people of Coronia are compassion, but I wanted someone who's brave enough to scold me because he cares for me. I was so happy that without Coronia, there will be someone who will worry for my own sake.

Somehow, I wish that I hadn't cut my hair and went to that forest. I regret that it would be him who shall take off my life. I never knew he will be the one who will put my life to death.

Meeting him, is not something I would regret, but dying because of me, that should be my one and only regret.

So, I decided to go back as Alyanna and decided to become a Queen. I thought, my decision would not be reckless anymore. Yet, this is also another impulsive decision.

I thought, that man was the sign for me to take my responsibilities as a future queen.

"The Future Queen, Her Majesty, has returned!" the soldiers said in chorus.

As I enter the gates, I was sure, I am still Alyanna again.

The ritual had happened, I was crowned as a Queen, and my pledge is...

"To protect the people of Coronia, serve my empire with virtues and righteous, I shall punish the evil, do what is right, help the common people and shall only bring peace and order." After saying pledge, I drank the drink they had given me, also a part of the ritual.

The people clapped their hands joyously. Their eyes sparked as if their trust were have been fulfilled by me.

"Your Majesty, I know it is difficult for you, but trust us, Coronians, we want the best for us and for you." General Samuel said.

"Then, what do you think is best for me to do?" I asked.

"This is the scroll that Alice had written. It says for you to marry someone in Harmonia. Harmonia is a great ally." After hearing what General Samuel had said, I began practicing throughout the whole year and some preparations of becoming a Queen.

I practiced, not just a Queen, but to become a gracious and wise Queen.

Alice knows the real me. She knows, I cannot rule a land or even an empire. Marrying someone would strengthen our forces and bring order to the empire. When she ruled this empire, she did not marry anyone because she has enough strength and strategies within her.

There were not deaths and casualties because the peace had been living throughout the empire, which few years later, I had destroyed.

After that year, I was invited in a Masquerade celebration. For me to be known as the present Queen of Coronia, and, to meet the other royalties throughout the world called Mystica.

It was an elegant event. It feels like I'm out of space. Like, I don't belong here.

and it wasn't my place to belong with in the first place.

A guy bowed to me and asked for my hand to dance. His black jade hair seems familiar, it was neat and somehow styled. His mask is shining in gold. His suit defines his character as a manly yet elegant person. He is someone you can adore from a far. Behind his mask, I can see his eyes' color. It was beautiful like a gem called ruby.

I immediately accepted his hands and danced together. I went here for a social circle. Having him, danced with me, is already an opportunity.

"Oh dear, we have met again. You had a longer hair this time, probably you've learned your mistakes already." the guy who wears a golden mask said as he was dancing me in the banquet.

"Pardon?"

"You haven't remembered anything at all, what a heartache."

"Do you know me?"

"Seeing you from a far, yes, I still remember you. You had a remarkable golden hair," the tips of his fingers went into my hair.

His voice is deep and pleasant, that whenever you hear this voice, you will always listen to it. But this is not right. Though his voice is familiar, I should not be entangling with him.

I am not myself. I am Alyanna.

"I'm getting married already." I said coldly and snapped his fingers.

It took me a year to finally decide how my life will begin. It was difficult to train as a Queen. I dropped my soul and decided to be elegant but becomes a warrior whenever I need to protect the empire. An empire won't be stable without a king, so I must marry. It was an oath. An alliance.

I agreed. Without hesitation, I signed the oath. If it would be better, then why not? Without my will, I must do it. It's for the empire. It's an obligation.

I should be lucky because instead of becoming a slave, I became a worthy person. Thanks to Alice but everything seems not right. This is not where should I stand. These are not my feet and my path to walk through. But I have no choice anymore.

Alice told me that I should live my life but right now, I can't promise that. I must live for her, I have to live for Coronia. I must live for her death will.

I'm undecided, I don't know how to decide for myself, what for the other people?

"And whom are you getting married to?" he asked.

"Janeur Chriseux of Thalonia." I replied.

The duke, Jake for shorter, is flirting with other nobles. Instead of dancing me, he insisted to join the girls who wear indecently. He knows no discipline because we were just going to marry politically. No feelings attached. It's an oath only to get married to him. He doesn't want someone like me that even from a far, you won't find attractive. I'm not interested in him either, so I think, that would be fine.

"You meant my half-brother? The handsome duke of Thalonia?" he chuckled.

Is he insulting the duke? If the duke hears this, he might kill him with his outstanding pride.

But suddenly, my eyes widened. Half-brother? Did I just hear things right? Just who is this guy I'm dancing for?

"It's such a pity though. I am a king yet you're marrying a duke for nothing. A duke who has a lot of concubine and won't ever pay attention to you." He spoke.

"I know," I replied.

He doesn't need to remind these things.

"but won't you regret marrying him?" he asked.

This guy has a point. But what? did he just say that he is a King?

"Who on Mystica are you?"

"Why would you dance with someone you don't know? I've heard, you never gave an impression to men. Why did you let yourself dance with a stranger?" He whispered.

Even I did not know why I received his hands from the moment I saw him. I can't tell it's for fascination but maybe because of the social circle. But he is good at ballroom dances. His gentle hands that hold my waist—made a memorable dance.

I even forgot that we're dancing. His dance is too great that my feet followed his turns.

"It is my first time attending a banquet. I used to hide in a library before and somehow, from the men who asked me to dance, I felt like I trusted you." I replied.

"And since you trust me, why not come with me?" he smirked.

I raised him an eyebrow. What is he thinking? If I do something wrong tonight, I will ruin Alice' reputation.

He suddenly chuckled after seeing my reaction as if he had known what thoughts are coming inside my mind.

"I know some place where we can continue dancing ang get to know each other."

I was about to reject him, but he suddenly whispered where the place is. I can't reject him now. The place he had said was my most favorite place in this world. My cheeks started to heat. What on Mystica is happening to me?

I loved the place he just said! all these times, I was afraid of going into that place because no one would allow me. That place is a sacred garden. Only those who wear noble title and the noble's blood flow into them can enter the garden. Since I was chosen by the white cat, the cat did concealed me and changed my aura. So I have a permission that made me travel in that garden for the first time.

It was the Harmonia de Amore Garden. The garden is very near to the banquet since the duke of Harmonia hosted it.

The duke is busy by the accompany of his women so probably he won't notice me sneaking out. He doesn't care about me either.

As this person grabbed my hands, I felt the real castle within him. He is indeed true to be a King. A kind that everyone's desiring. He is a great king.

The green and pink lights from the above are dancing. I bet they are called Aurora Borealis. The constellations and the stars are seen. It was the most beautiful thing that ever happened to me.

The reason why this garden is unique because this garden is floating. We are surrounded by clouds, but we are neither high nor too low from the real ground.

The different shades of flowers, leaves and everything gave me peace. Their petals are glowing since it is nighttime.

"So, let's continue our dance, shall we?" he smiled again and offered me his warm hands.

I nodded as an answer.

We began to dance, slowly. I followed his movements and so the dance began comfortable. We started to get to know each other.

"Back then, when I wanted to read, I always want to go somewhere. I want a place that is silent and filled with serenity." He told me what he likes, his comfortable places and his interests. I let out a soft laugh after hearing it. We have some things in common.

"Everyone wants to read in peace!" I exclaimed.

"Well, the noise irritates me every time I read the 'Fairy's Lost Wings'. I was so interested to the book back then that I would escape from the palace every time. My life is kind off different."

"Huh? Fairy's Lost Wings? You're reading that too?" I asked in glee.

I know slaves are not meant to read a book, but there's somewhere in my younger memory, I can't tell where or when, but I have read a book. It's a book with illustrations so it won't be hard for me to read it.

The dance immediately changed into a different time signature. He is still elegant, and the beats became faster and happier than it used to be. The plants near the waterfalls played a music as he snapped, He's giving me an aura that gives me comfort. A different aura from everyone.

It won't be difficult for him to use magic and to dance at the same time because he seems too expert in this area.

"You're truly interesting. The ladies I used to dance like to talk about different shades of gown, the flowers and most importantly about love. Yet I see no sign of you introducing that topic." he chuckled.

"Then probably, I'm not a lady." I replied.

"A maiden, perhaps?"

What a joke. He made my heartbeat fast and I'm starting to become comfortable around him. It's like I liked his presence around him If I have the power to stop the time, then I'll surely stop it. Unfortunately, it seems like we are bounded by fate.

"The thing I liked about that book is that the Fairy had been useful even though she doesn't have wings. She became a hero and saved many people though those people never believed in her ability." I smiled.

Fairy's Lost Wings inspires me that much and that was a remarkable book for me. I can tell that the fairy and I had the same situation. I didn't have wings so I won't lose one but I don't see my purpose and still seeking through if I ever I have one.

"And probably you're her?" he began to make a joke.

I laughed softly. "No way!" he began to chuckle too.

"Do you think we have met again by fate?" he asked.

"Unfortunate fate, I presume?" I replied.

The flowers stopped swaying to produce music. The bell rang, and it is now 12 am. We began to stop moving our body.

"Let's seal our lips with a kiss to bid farewell." He leaned his face towards mine, he grabbed my waist. I can feel his breath near me, so I decided to grab his mask and so did he. When we saw each other's faces, I couldn't do anything. I was stunned and frozen from where I'm standing.

Then, he let out a smile into his lips. It was a smile I couldn't forget. It was so alluring.

He pressed his lips against mine. I was still stunned. Frozen into where I'm standing.

It was him!

"Then let's meet again, Your Majesty." he whispered into my ears.

The scenario instantly changed; we were back in the hall room, in the same spot and same movement before we went in the garden. It was like we are in an illusion. He indeed has a strong magic within him. The masks were immediately put in our faces unnoticeable. We both bowed together and bid a farewell.

Days had past and we met frequently. Surely, our meeting left an impression with each other so we yearned seeking each other. My marriage is about to happen in 30 days. I know what I'm doing is ruining someone's reputation but am I not being fair enough? Jake is doing the same. He is leaving me forlorn, then why can't do the same thing with him?

"Why can't I be Jake and be the one to marry you?" he asked.

"The law says so. I can't abandon my land for you." I replied.

I am laying my head on his lap. He was sitting on the near the blooming plum tree. I am staring at his delicate face as if someone who's talented in sculpture had made him. His features are really alluring. That whenever I'm stressed in finding ways to handle the empire, he calms me.

Staring at him fills my day.

He taught me magic each day, like teleportation and the communication ball where we can see each other.

Surely, He's better than Jake!

But what do I expect? I married Jake politically.

"I'll abandon my land then."

I wanted to hit him on the head. He is someone who's dignified and destined truly to become a king. How can he say such things?!

"How on Mystica can you say that? Your land is more important than me!" I hissed.

He suddenly cupped my face and wore a smile again.

"I love you more than anything else."

My tears fell. It was the first time that I ever felt love after Alice passed away. It was the first time that there's someone who believed in me, who will choose me and will ever be there.

"But you are a great king. I'm no one!"

"You are my world. A king can't be a king without ruling his world." he replied.

"And it aches my heart seeing you, marrying someone else. I can't be just your affair or perhaps, your lover. I can't do that! I don't want that." He said in a serious tone.

Our impulsive choices made us a troublesome. I can't do this anymore... Surely, love can make a person fool. Right now, we are both fools.

"Then we should stop this." I cleared my voice. I'm distracting him and I couldn't just do that. I don't want to destroy him just because of his tender love for me.

"Why don't we just become an ally and not marry my brother anymore?" he suggested.

"Though my land will be stronger if we became an ally, I would certainly do that but I had taken an oath to someone that I should marry someone than having an ally."

He held my hands a sealed my lips with a kiss. This king is great but doesn't know his place. If someone sees us, we'll be doomed.

"Then, why not live for yourself rather an oath?" he said.

I bowed my head, "My gratitude is so huge for that person and I cannot do that. If I would be given another life, then I'll live my life freely." I replied.

"I can sacrifice more things than you do. I want to fight for us,"

"I want too..." I replied in a low tone voice.

"If I had not gone into that forest, I wouldn't know you."

"Why did you go there?" I asked in a curious tone.

"To kill someone. I am destined to kill someone that who will bring depravity to my empire."

And indeed, he is such a great king. Courage and Brave king.

He thinks of his people with all his heart. He is willing to kill a person that will surely ruin his empire. Not knowingly, that person is me. I was so blind that I fell in love with such a man and so he is. He didn't know anything about me. What an innocent love.

We didn't bother knowing each other's darker side because we believe we are bonded by love.

So, we went to the lake in the midnight before my engagement. I was so blind that I have not known that people were becoming suspicious on us. We swam together and made a promise that we'll be together even if I marry someone else.

There were tons of dancing fireflies. It was a beautiful view.

The lake is destined to fulfill promises. So we decided to go there, to fulfill our promises with each other.

"In this world, I promise to only love one person, and that person shall be you. Only you." we said in chorus.

I hugged him and sang a song. A song that's meant for him--for us.

Let us be always together forever

Holding each other's hand

Let us not be parted from each other

Rather we'll be together in our journey

When he's about to seal his lips to my lips, I heard a man, ran angrily into the water and hit me.

I was so shocked from the scenario that I couldn't defend myself.

"How could you?!" He yelled. He was about to hit me again by James shielded me from his attack.

"And you, aren't you a king that everyone desires? I can't believe you're a shit." Jake said in a furious tone.

"Hahaha!" his laugh frightens me.

"That lady I suppose to marry is a monster. Didn't you know why I'm the one chosen to marry her?" Jake asked.

"I don't care! You don't love her, so it doesn't matter to you right?" James replied in a furious tone.

"I'm chosen to marry her so you could be a great king. You were supposed to marry her but I saved you. I saved a shit like you. Didn't you go to the forest and suppose to kill someone? That someone is her. She uses a magic that will destroy you!" after hearing what Jake had said, I was astounded by the revelation.

Hearing these words made me stunned from where I'm standing. I don't know what to do. All I know is, my tears are falling in fear and pain after knowing the truth.

We were meant to be together but that can't happen because we will both die.

We couldn't escape or anything.

Duke Jake ordered the guards to give him a sage. He tried to wipe the sage into my face but James stopped him. "Don't touch her!" he hugged me as he was covering me.

"Destiny could be really playful, isn't it? Look, I'm the one who should you be marrying but you are in his arms! It can't be helped. In the end, I should be the King. James will make the Harmonia worse! But my damned father won't even believe in me!" he shouted.

Jake was so smart, so he threw the sage instead. The sage is my weakness and it triggers the magic I had in me. When the sage reaches me, I tried to swim far but the sage went straightly to my stomach. I groaned in pain.

The sage was something painful to me. The magic releases whenever I'm in pain. The sage could trigger my magic and Jake did really made a research about me. If only I have been wiser, I could escape this thing. If Alice were here, will she forgive me?

The magic I had never used with all my life had released.

My hands were releasing a several streaks of light in any direction. It was harmful. I couldn't take it.

"I'm sorry!" I tried to say these words, but it was too late.

A magic that I can't even control. It harmed everyone in the scenario. I have no choice but to turn in myself.

I have sinned and was casted away. Several alchemists went to visit me, to examine my body and experimented me. The did a lot of experimentations and I need to be awake for the whole time they do that. They give me nothing to eat or to drink, trying to prove that I could be an immortal with divine magic.

Days passed and James went to visit me, but I never gave any response to him because I was so exhausted. Until I have heard a news the some of my people die in the hands of Harmonia. Jake must have been doing this on purpose. I can't let him.

I am so afraid. I love my people, but I loved James more. Alice would be disappointed in me. I should have died. This foolish love is becoming more serious.

This time, James visited me again. This time, I started to respond to him. Without any emotions, trying my best to fight dizziness.

"I'm sorry..." my voice trembled after not being able to take for a long time.

He went inside to the dungeon. Yes, I was imprisoned. I used the magic like a criminal. People here are able to use magic then why can I not? Why is the world's being unfair to me? Just because I loved him, just because I was loved!

It was already my one and only sin.

Everything feels cold but James is a warm person... I'm alright beside him. I wanted to cry, I don't want to become comfortable with him again, I don't want to suffer again.

I rested in his lap. Tears are falling in my eyes. I couldn't face him. It's a shame. My skin is full of wounds, and I can't face him. My face is full of bruises. I am becoming thinner and weaker each day. Every time I became weak, I won't be able to use the divine powers, so they decided to punish me every day aside from banning me from food and water. My dress was been torn already. I am starving in hunger. I'm shivering in cold.

It was my fault. Alice' people are suffering because of me. Coronia suffers for my one and only mistake.

That mistake is to love and be loved...

Whenever James is around, that's the time I could only eat and have a short rest. He was also grounded for his mistakes. He was banned to meet me. Luckily, he knows several magic where he can make a clone of himself working at the kingdom but, he's here visiting me.

He can't visit me for a long time, that's because when the people knew how much he risked for me, I will get killed and he will be severely punished.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I can't be a good king. I couldn't do anything for you!"

"No, you are a good king. I deserve to be punished. I'm wicked right?" My voice trembled every time I speak.

"I'm really sorry."

"You always apologize whenever you see me, it's alright. But please, don't abandon your land for me." I requested.

"It hurts, seeing you like this hurts me more." he always cries whenever he goes here. I can't take it. It's too much to bear. It's too much to handle. Seeing him caring for me, wishing for my good health and to be released from this dungeon, it aches my heart.

I was cursed, but that wasn't even my choice.

I only wanted to be cherished by someone, but why everything seems wrong?

Why does the world punish me for just yearning for love?

"Why would a king go and meet a criminal? a prisoner?" I asked.

"You are not a criminal!" he declared.

"I was a criminal because I have loved you."

I tilted my head, "If you have nothing to say, you may now leave." I tried my best to make my voice not to stutter in pain.

His warm hands touched my face. He was about to cry, but he suddenly spoke, "Please sing a song for me."

We'll keep walking together

taking our love along

In our journey, facing difficulties

I will still believe, you're by my side

Even if I am being separated with you,

You'll come and see me,

The sun will rise with us again

I can't finish the song. My voice is about to break. I couldn't cry in front of him. I shouldn't!

"I am declaring a war."

If only this way could stop him from visiting me. If only this could stop him from crying. If only this could end Coronia's suffering. I will do it; I must do it.

"Can you really do that?"

"And you think, I'm not the person in the prophecy? You will kill me, you will. In behalf of your reputation--"

"That's not me, Alyanna. I'm not in that damned prophecy!" he insisted.

"I'm wicked, James. I'm not meant for you." I stopped letting him hold my hands.

"The prophecy can't tell me what to do, Alyanna."

"Please..." he begged.

"Your time has come to limit, go away now." I said firmly and cold.

Deep in my heart, my heart is suffering in agony. It is so painful to bear letting him casted away from him. I have to push him away. If that what makes us better—him better, then I must. I loved him; I will be happy if I can see him in a better state even if that means I must suffer.

He hugged me tightly. The guards dragged him away but he's still fighting against them. "I love you; I will always love you." he said, trying to reach my hands as the guards trying to push him away.

"GET OYOUR HANDS OFF FROM ME!" he shouted.

"In my next life, I will be your lady..." I cried as I whispered.

That was his last words. In the night where I suppose to sleep, Jake took me somewhere far and tried to punish me in his many ways. The alchemists said my divine power can be passed by someone, so he begged me to have it then he'll set me free. But that's not something I could let him take away. If he had these powers and his intentions are evil, to conquer the world, I won't let him. I'll rather die with it than to give it to someone who's impure. I would rather myself handle the sufferings while hand it to someone who'll cause the world to suffer more. Since that was my decision, he tried to whip me several times. My chakra was been broken already, and I began vomiting several blood.

I couldn't scream or yell. I couldn't do anything. I was tied in the tree so tight. I can barely see anything. The blood is covering my sight. I let him do whatever he wanted to do to me. If enduring this suffering can give the world peace, then I should.

If James would not be involved again, then I must.

My existence is surely a hindrance.

He was trying to experiment my blood; he was eager to transfer my magic to his. His greed led him here. When he tasted the blood that's falling in my face, he laughed.

Is that why he was so curious about me and offered a marriage for alliance?

for my deity powers?

I couldn't scream or yell. Even if I pray hard for King James to save me, he wouldn't. I am inside a spell. What a terrible situation I am in. I cannot do anything. Fighting back? I can't. No one believes me, they despised me.

"Surely, my dear beloved fiancé, you are strong. But how much stronger can you put into act if I tell you that thousands of people had been slain by my hands because of your foolish love between my brother?" he let out his evil laugh.

I closed my eyes, praying for my patience and for the souls of the people he had killed.

I apologize...

My apology won't do anything.

"Do you know how your lovely General Flores begged for his life? His newborn baby was been slain by me too. His adorable wife? My soldiers too care of her, I wonder how she is now. Your empire is doomed without you." After hearing his words, I couldn't take it anymore.

My eyes widened after hearing those words. Anger start growing inside my heart.

Not General Flores! No... This can't be true! General Flores was the one who taught me how to do swordplay correctly. If he died, just because of me, then, I will never forgive myself!

Innocent lives were being punished by reckless wish.

I screamed and let out a strong streak of light in me.

If I was really born a witch, a wicked one, then I should act one.

My anger killed him through my magic. I couldn't do anything. I cried after seeing him lose his consciousness in front of me. I can't let my people die. Torturing me is fine but to kill my beloved people—he deserves his death. My magic reacted for karma, not because I wished to killed him! He went too far already!

Death is bestowed upon him.

My merciful people... they died because of me. They died horribly because of me!

After James heard that I killed his brother, he agreed to the war. Not knowing the reasons why.

He judged me easily.

Coronia, the empire of kindness and peace was shifted into a rebellious empire because of me.

He saw the evil in me, not asking why I did kill his brother. He didn't listen to the words I am supposed to say. When he said he believes in me, it suddenly changed. The emotions drove him to a cold and merciless king.

He was so eager to punish me.

My heart shattered. I can't let my people die again, I just can't.

If he truly loves me, he will believe in me. He will know what I've got through, what I've been through. How I felt the death slowly eating me through Jake's hand.

I changed in his eyes instantly.

That was the most painful thing. He stopped loving and believing in me. My people died and I was tortured in many ways. I couldn't remember how Jake tortured me. It was so painful to remember.

If James knew, he'll probably kill Jake, but he didn't. His love completely vanished. It aches my heart, because even though he became an enemy, I still love him.

I can't kill, I can't destroy his empire but if I didn't kill Jake, I won't be able to see him again. His brother is plotting too many evil things. He even wanted to dethrone his own brother and I couldn't just let him.

If James wanted to believe on what he must believe on, that should be good. I should be slayed. I couldn't live longer seeing him despising me.

In this war, I want to end these things. I want to end these all. My people's suffering, I should end it now. Because of my wrong rules, because of me being a Queen, I destroyed Alice' peaceful empire. I broke my promise, my oath and pledge.

Alice, forgive me.

I ran immediately and tried to avoid James' soldier. I ran towards him. A lot of soldiers prevent me and tries to kill me because there'll be a reward. I hate to kill within my own hands, but I have no choice. The guards beside him, were terrified as I killed them. Right now, I can't believe myself.

I am slowly turning into a monster...

The witch I'm destined to... I became that person...

I can't remember how many people I have killed. Am I really wicked?

If things turned around, your love fades

I will be left forlorn, I will shed a tear,

But mine isn't the same, difficulties I'll bear

I will still love you overflowingly

So, please before you leave me here

let me see your alluring smile again

When I reached him, I raised my sword and gritted my teeth. I love you; I really do. Unlike you, I still love you. My heart still belongs to you since I have given it to you.

When I reached him, he pointed his sword with his blazing eyes in anger. "You're not Alyanna anymore." He spoke.

That sword, he vowed to use it to protect me. Now, it's being pointed against me.

"And you're not the same as the James I know." I replied.

We swing each other's sword. The fast of his hands and mine are both competent.

"The James I know will believe in me, but he didn't."

"How could I believe in a wicked lady like you?"

The tears in my eyes couldn't help to fell. I'm still swinging my sword. I couldn't just kill him. I want him to kill me. Please, stop swinging your sword. Please, let's return to the old times.

I can't waste any people's life anymore.

"My only regrets was to fall in love with you, you wicked wench!" he cussed.

My heart stopped from beating.

I know now what to do.

I'm sorry. I am really sorry.

"Please promise me, If I lose, you will protect my people. You must become a good king." I throw my sword in the battlefield.

He was astonished by my act. He began to move his feet slowly, and walked in front of me and slowly hugged me. I closed my eyes. Is this a dream? Will he kill me behind my back? I will be waiting.

If I will be killed on his embrace, I won't regret it.

"I'm giving you an opportunity to explain."

"You still love me, don't you?" I tried to laugh.

"Speak out!" he yelled.

"There's nothing to explain, James. If you have regretted meeting me, well, I don't. I loved you with all my heart. You loved me too and it was the happiest moment in my life. I know, I will be punished too after you kill me. But if my sin was only to be loved and to love, then I'll rather be a sinner, James." His hug became tighter.

I cried in both pain and happiness.

"You will always become my light. But that doesn't the case anymore. Tons of my people are dying because of my one only sin, and I can't risk them for you. Same thing goes for you, right?"

"Alyanna!"

"End me here, James. Kill me."

He slowly dropped his sword and surely, he shed a tear. "I-I'm s----" I didn't let him finish his sentences.

"Believe what you want to believe. Believe in the prophecy itself, we're already here. Kill me now!" I begged.

"N-No!"

Becoming one with love

Even if we've been separated

My heart will only beat for you.

If we will cause' each other's pain

No matter what you'll say

I will endure it with all my best

If that's what it takes,

I'll be with you

Always, together and forever

"And you know what tortured me more? When you stopped loving me, believing in me and wanted to kill me." I closed my eyes and shed a tear.

"No... I always love you... It's just, I thought you changed. You killed my people--"

"Yes, I did, because none of your people were sincere enough. Your brother wants to steal your throne and some of your people betray you. That's why live, James. Live! You must be a good king!"

"Alyanna---"

"It's too late James. But loving you is not something I would regret. In fact, my death wish would be to be your lady in my next life. If the prophecy will repeat again, then, we shall not meet again." I replied, grabbing his sword.

I put the sword in his hands, but he keeps rejecting it.

"King James, why don't you kill her right now? Shall I do it for you, your majesty?" and the so-called prophet, Yuan, laughed.

"James, right now, kill me!" I begged.

"I can't trust you, your majesty. You had a past with this wench, didn't you? Wouldn't it be hard for you to kill her?"

"Should I kill you instead? You're nothing but a damned prophet. Don't dictate me!"

The prophet smiled and pointed his sword confidently to the King. And many of his people pointed their sword to the king.

"I can't and will never be a good king, Alyanna." he whispered.

"Kill me and throw my body to the river, in that way, I'll bring back to life, and for you, you have to live." I tried to lie, just to gave him reasons to kill me.

But unfortunately, he didn't buy it.

"I thought of a good plan, Alyanna."

He pushed me and grabbed both of our swords. He smiled, but it was a sad one. So, do I. We have no choice but to bring this end together. Now, we both have the answers, we still love each other, then we can finally end these things. Yes, we followed the prophecy, he'll kill me. I'll do the same.

"Let's die together." He declared.

I nodded.

He's about to stab me and there I saw his tears falling down to his cheeks.

"I shall kill you!" he shouted.

꧁𝓔𝓷𝓭 𝓸𝓯 𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓵𝓾𝓭𝓮꧂

Words and Terms:

Mystica - the name of this fantasy world

Coronia - An empire, it was led by Princess Alice (formerly). Princess Alice didn't wanted to become a Queen, so her leadership is quite handy but she was able to manage the empire well due to the former King and Queen.

Harmonia - A neighboring kingdom, it is filled with different aristocrats and royalties.

Thalonia - A coast island in Harmonia that was being led by Duke Jake.

Harmonia de Amore Garden - A garden in Harmonia, known for being one of the most beautiful gardens of all. It is floating in the sky, neither high nor low from the original ground. The plants in the evening glows and becomes translucent, in the morning, its colors are pleasant in the eyes. The waterfalls are said to grant wishes. Which goes down through the lake.

Lake of Promises - when you were rinsed by the water of these lake, your promise will eventually happen.

𝓐𝓾𝓽𝓱𝓸𝓻❜𝓼 𝓝𝓸𝓽𝓮: I bet some of you are having confusion as you read this "Prelude". This begins with a scenario, two persons fighting each other which turns out to be lovers but destined to kill each other. As they successfully killed each other, Alyanna wanders around her past memories with James that will tell the readers what kind of relationship does James and Alyanna have and how did they turn into a mess. The next chapter will be messier, but I hope you will understand it. Of course, I will explain just in case. Let's wait for more mysteries to come in the next chapter. That would be the most shocking revelation ever. Prepare your mind as you read and don't forget to relax!