Aurelia as though the ceremony had become an elaborate joke played at his expense, his composure finally breaking. The girl from the cave, the stubborn stranger who had wand

s the heavens had not been entirely cruel to her after all. "I thought I would never see you again," she whispered, veil trembling. "I went back to the cave and you were gone." Evander'

ssion hardened instantly, the flicker of recognition buried under duty. He extended his hand toward her, his movement stiff and formal. Aurelia placed hers i

e from me." Her smile faltered, warmth cooling at his cold tone. "I was not expecting love, Your Highness," she replied quietly, lifting her chin. "I only thought you might at least look at me when yo

d secretly dreamed about. The ceremony continued, the elder's voice echoing as he spoke of unity and peace. Before the assembled royals of Earth and Heaven, Evander and Aurelia exchanged their v

, blood running down his forehead, armor dented. "Your Majesties! The Underworld has attacked! They have breached the outer walls!" he shouted. Panic sp

this spot," he commanded. "But my people-" she began. "I said stay behind me," he repeated, eyes scanning the entrance. Before she could answer, armed soldiers f

sitions as the Underworld army advanced. Smoke rose above palace walls, sounds of clashing weapons filling the air. Aurelia searched frantically through confusion, her white

uted. That moment of distraction was enough, a fatal mistake. A dark blade struck him from behind. Aurelia watched in horror a

help him!" she begged, but no one came. His fingers tightened weakly around hers. "Remember... your strength is not a curse, child. It is a gift. Do not be afraid of

ell across the ground. "Move aside, girl. You are in my way," a cold voice said. Aurelia lifted her head, tears drying as fury took their place. A young man in dark armor stood nearby, holding a bloodied sword, the

?" she asked, voice low with rage. Darian lifted his chin arrogantly. "He stood in my way. He was weak, as all Earth mages are." Aurelia looked at the sword

eyes never leaving his. "You took everything from me. You took my teacher, my family. You think I will let you walk away?" The air around her began to tremble, dust rising as wind circled he

ng faintly with light she did not understand. "Now," she whispered, voice carrying