Chapter 1: A Lonely Beginning

Elliana stood by the window, staring at the flickering candles atop her eighth birthday cake. The warmth of her father’s hand on her shoulder was a comfort she had grown to cherish, but this birthday would be the last time she felt it. A week later, her father was gone, taken from her by illness. At eight years old, she was left utterly alone in the world.

Years passed, but the ache of loneliness never quite faded. Elliana poured herself into books and the chores of daily life, building a quiet strength that she didn’t yet realize she possessed. She had grown into a young woman who, though quiet and reserved, held a fire within her-one that would ignite when the time was right.

...-The Birthday Ball-...

Elliana’s nineteenth birthday arrived with an air of excitement she hadn’t felt in years. For once, the halls of the grand estate she now called home were filled with laughter and music. It was a rare celebration, a party arranged by her guardians to mark her coming of age.

As she descended the spiral staircase, her pale blue gown shimmering like the evening sky, her eyes met his. He was tall, with jet-black hair and eyes that seemed to hold the secrets of the stars. The prince—Yohan.

Their gazes locked, and for a moment, the world around them melted away. Gathering her courage, Elliana approached him.

"Happy birthday," he said with a small bow. His voice was deep and calm, carrying an air of command. "Thank you," she replied softly, her cheeks flushing. "My name is Elliana."

"And I am Yohan," he said, offering his hand. They spent the evening talking, their words flowing like a river. For the first time in years, Elliana felt truly seen.

...-A new Dream-...

The next morning, Elliana awoke with a sense of anticipation. She had dreamt of Yohan’s laughter and the way he had spoken of his training as a swordsman. Her heart raced at the thought of watching him practice.

Later that day, she spotted him in the courtyard, his movements precise and fluid as he sparred with another knight. She watched in awe, captivated by his strength and grace.

“I want to learn,” she whispered to herself.

When she voiced her desire to train, however, she was met with resistance. “It’s not proper for a lady,” her governess scolded.

But Elliana was determined. For too long, her life had been dictated by rules meant to contain her. She wouldn’t let her dreams slip away so easily.

Each day, Elliana returned to the courtyard, watching Yohan train. She studied his movements, memorizing the steps and stances. Late at night, she practiced in secret, wielding a broomstick as her sword.

One evening, Yohan caught her watching. Instead of scolding, he smirked. “You’ve been observing for days. Do you wish to try?”

Elliana’s eyes widened. “You’d teach me?”

“Only if you’re ready to fight for it.”

...-To be continue...

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