The Reckoning

Six days. Six days since they left, and the only thing you feel is anger. Anger at being left behind, anger at feeling useless, anger at the gnawing uncertainty of their fate. This consuming rage is a stark contrast to the hope you desperately cling to, the only anchor in a world of lonely darkness and stifling routine. Trapped within gilded walls, you grapple with a burgeoning, fiery power and the heavy weight of your betrothal to two absent princes. When news finally arrives, it ignites a confrontation that reveals the King's cold indifference and leaves you questioning everything. Is he a monster, or does he simply have no heart? And will the men you're promised to even recognize the person you're becoming?

It's been six days.

Six days since they left and you haven't heard a word. The expected sadness and fear are absent, replaced by a consuming, burning anger. Every moment in the palace, from the endless corridors to the indifferent faces of the other 'chosen,' seems to fuel this internal fire. You pace your rooms, the gilded cage feeling more suffocating than ever.

Your daily routine offers little solace, only a stark reminder of your helplessness. The only constant is Quirin's morning visit, a quiet assessment of your condition that yields the same frustrating result: no discernible change. He speaks of patience and time, words that grate against your frayed nerves.

Then, news arrives, not from the King, but through the palace gossip relayed by your servant, Lyari. The princes are safe. They have made camp. The King knew two days ago and told you nothing.

The rage explodes. You run from your room, half-dressed, driven by an unstoppable need for confrontation.

The Reckoning

Fantasy Betrayal Royalty Magic Anger