Bridging Worlds: Book 1 Celestoria's Time
Majestic Crossroad

In the Eastern Palace, within Prince Draven’s chamber, the room exuded opulence with its bright lighting, ornate chandeliers, and candles casting a warm glow. Despite the lavish surroundings filled with sumptuous furnishings and intricate decorations, the solemnity of the situation persisted as guards brought Kiryo before the prince.

As Kiryo was presented to Prince Draven, one of the guards spoke in a deferential tone, “Your Highness, he is the prisoner you asked for.”

Turning away from the distractions in his chamber, Prince Draven fixed his gaze upon Kiryo. The man, on the verge of collapse, bore welts and bruises from the guards’ ruthless handling. Yet, despite the pain, Kiryo met the prince’s gaze with unwavering determination.

Sneering at Kiryo, Prince Draven mocked, “Ah, the stubborn peasant who refuses to bend to authority. What is your name, peasant?”

Defiantly, Kiryo replied, “I don’t need to tell my name to some tyrant like you.”

Though angered, Prince Draven paused, contemplating Kiryo’s determination. After a brief silence, he grudgingly admitted, “Your determination is praiseworthy, young man. But your stubbornness may yet get you killed.”

Kiryo’s gaze bore into the prince with fiery resentment.

In a fit of anger, Prince Draven ordered, “Take him to the dungeon, and make sure his punishment continues until he learns his lesson.”

As guards began to drag Kiryo away, a palace attendant entered, whispering something into the prince’s ear. The news seemed to concern him greatly, prompting him to abruptly leave the company of his courtesans.

Reacting to the whispered information, Prince Draven said, “Take me to that person,” swiftly exiting the room.

At this moment, Kiryo’s fate hung in the balance as the prince was forced to address a matter diverting his attention from the intended punishment.

In the Western Palace, within Queen Melisandre’s elegant chamber, Rosche stood patiently outside, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and trepidation.

The guard entered, his footsteps echoing on the polished marble floor, and announced Rosche’s presence to the queen. “Your Majesty, this is the person who insists on meeting you.”

Known for her grace and courtesy, Queen Melisandre regarded the guard with a thoughtful expression before nodding. “Very well, allow her in.”

The guard ushered Rosche into the queen’s presence. With a deep curtsey and a respectful bow, Rosche greeted Queen Melisandre. “Your Majesty, I am Rosche Daramar from Ebonvale Village. I apologize for any disturbance I may have caused by coming unannounced.”

Queen Melisandre, regal and composed, acknowledged Rosche with a warm smile. “Welcome, Rosche Daramar. You’ve traveled from far away, and I can see that you have something important to discuss. Please, take your time. What brings you to my palace today?”

Rosche began with solemnity, “First of all, Your Majesty, I wish to offer my deepest condolences to your kingdom for the recent hardships you’ve endured.”

Grateful, the queen nodded, her eyes reflecting the weight of her responsibilities. “Thank you, Rosche. Our kingdom has faced many trials, but we persevere. Please, continue.”

“Your Majesty, I humbly seek your assistance,” Rosche began after a deep breath. “My dear friend has been missing, and I’ve heard that he was taken into custody by your son, Prince Draven. It appears to have been a mistake, and I believe he’s being held in your palace.”

Concerned, Queen Melisandre’s expression shifted. “I’m truly sorry to hear that this has happened. It was never my intention for innocent people to suffer, and I apologize for my son’s actions. Rest assured, I will investigate this matter personally to rectify any mistakes made.”

Touched by the queen’s understanding and willingness to take action, Rosche felt a sense of relief. “Thank you, Your Majesty. Your kindness and willingness to address this issue give me hope.”

The queen remained regal yet compassionate. “You are most welcome, Rosche. My primary concern is the well-being of our people. Please trust that I will do all within my power to ensure your friend’s safety and release. I will keep you informed of any developments.”

Rosche offered another respectful curtsey before taking her leave. As Rosche exited the queen’s chamber, her heart still heavy with concern for her missing friend, she stepped into the grand palace corridor. The polished marble floor and intricate tapestries seemed to envelop her in the grandeur of the royal palace. She had not gone far when, to her surprise and trepidation, she encountered a man standing directly in front of her.

It was Prince Draven, the very figure who had been at the center of her distress. They locked eyes, and in that intense gaze, emotions clashed and danced.

Rosche’s eyes held a mixture of apprehension and determination, her gaze unyielding as she assessed the man before her. She had just pleaded for assistance from his mother, the queen, in regard to her friend’s unjust capture, and now, here he was, Prince Draven himself.

In contrast, Prince Draven’s expression revealed not just curiosity but a simmering lust as he took in Rosche’s striking beauty. His reputation may have been less than stellar, but her presence seemed to momentarily captivate him in a way that was far from virtuous.

The corridor hummed with unspoken tension as their eyes remained locked. Each had their reasons for being there, each with their own motivations and emotions. It was a moment of silent confrontation and unspoken words, where their paths had crossed, and the outcome was yet uncertain.

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