*Luna POV*
My parents are the esteemed King and Queen. While our numbers may not be vast, merely comprising a couple hundred souls, this close-knit community affords us the privilege of residing together within the grand confines of a magnificent castle. Set apart from the conventions of typical tribes, who might establish towns, villages, or kingdoms, our exceptional strength and power have enabled us to construct our very own fortress, a testament to our formidable presence in the world.
My dream is about to come True! I’m so excited!
Anticipation tingled through my veins as I reveled in the knowledge that my long-cherished dream was on the precipice of realization. The night enveloped my surroundings, yet my heart brimmed with restless excitement, for tomorrow marked the advent of my very own birthday.
I nestled upon the lavish expanse of my queen-sized bed within the expanse of my spacious room, I found myself unable to succumb to slumber's embrace, so fervent was my anticipation. The air crackled with a sense of impending joy, and sleep eluded me as my thoughts danced with gleeful anticipation, each passing moment propelling me closer to the wondrous day that awaited.
Tomorrow I'll turn 16! Which means that I will finally be crowned and become a princess!
My father's words echoed in my mind, reminding me of the immense responsibility that accompanies the title of princess. A myriad of tasks and duties awaited me within the castle's walls—tending to the needs of our subjects, grappling with weighty decisions, meticulously overseeing the kingdom's finances to ensure its prosperity, and embodying elegance and grace as a beacon of inspiration for all. The weight of these expectations might seem daunting to some, but to me, it was an exhilarating prospect. The anticipation swelled within me, and despite the inherent challenges, I eagerly awaited the opportunity to embrace my role as a princess, ready to embark on this extraordinary journey of leadership and self-discovery.
The allure of becoming a princess was deeply rooted in the enchanting tales my mother would share with me. Her stories painted a vivid picture of a life filled with grand adventures, noble pursuits, and an eternal sense of wonder. I was captivated by her accounts of princesses who defied conventions, embarked on daring quests, and left their mark on history. These narratives ignited a spark within me, fueling my longing for a life where monotony was replaced by excitement and every day held the promise of something extraordinary.
My mother, ever the romantic, would regale me with the tale of how my father proposed to her when she ascended to the esteemed title of princess. It was a testament to the transformative power of love and the significance of this revered role. As I listened to her recount the story, a kaleidoscope of emotions enveloped me—hope, anticipation, and the belief that my own journey as a princess would be imbued with a similar sense of magic and romance.
Thus, armed with the dreams woven by my mother's stories and the legacy of love that my parents shared, I eagerly embraced the prospect of becoming a princess. It was not merely the crown upon my head that beckoned me, but the promise of a life infused with adventure, purpose, and the everlasting power of love's enchantment.
As thoughts of becoming a princess filled my mind, a whimsical notion fluttered through my thoughts—perhaps, just maybe, someone would one day propose to me as well. In that fleeting moment, a vivid image of Reid, a dear friend who held a special place in my heart, materialized before me. A warm blush painted my cheeks in shades of crimson as my imagination ran wild with possibilities.
Seeking solace and privacy, I nestled myself into the soft embrace of my pillow, burying my face in its comforting fabric. Hidden from the world, I allowed my mind to wander, indulging in the daydreams of tender affection and heartfelt promises. In the sanctuary of my own thoughts, the possibility of a future intertwined with love and companionship filled me with a mixture of excitement and trepidation.
As I lay there, the rhythmic beat of my heart echoed in my ears, resonating with the hopes and dreams that danced within my soul. Though the path to fulfilling my aspirations as a princess may be rife with challenges and responsibilities, the prospect of a love story unfolding alongside my royal journey added a layer of anticipation and tenderness to my aspirations.
With my cheeks still flushed and a hint of a smile gracing my lips, I buried my face into my pillow as my imaginations went wild, I started fantasizing of what the future may hold for me. Where love's gentle touch intertwined with the enchantment of royalty, painting a picture of a future filled with love, purpose, and the promise of a happily ever after.
Overflowing with excitement and unable to contain my joy, a euphoric cry of anticipation escaped my lips and was swiftly muffled by the plushness of my pillow. However, in that exhilarating moment, a sudden realization dawned upon me like a gentle awakening. A hush fell upon my exuberant outburst as I understood the importance of maintaining decorum within the castle walls.
Aware of the diligent guards who tirelessly patrolled the hallways outside my chambers, I swiftly corrected my error, stifling any further exclamation. It was imperative not to disturb their vigilant watch with unnecessary commotion or a false alarm. Resolute in my desire to uphold the tranquility of the castle, I retreated into a composed silence, allowing the pulsating thrill of my impending destiny to reverberate within the confines of my own thoughts.
Though my heart still fluttered with anticipation and my spirit danced with unrestrained glee, I chose to express my fervor in more subdued ways, appreciating the sanctity of the castle's tranquil ambiance. With a composed demeanor, I lay nestled in the cocoon of my pillow, savoring the anticipation that swelled within me, mindful of the harmony that enveloped the castle's corridors.
In this moment of newfound awareness, I understood that my journey as a princess would demand not only grand dreams and aspirations but also a profound respect for the serenity of those around me. And so, with a quiet resolve, I allowed myself to bask in the delicious suspense of what lay ahead, eager to embrace the transformative role that awaited me, while gracefully acknowledging the importance of maintaining a peaceful equilibrium within the castle's protective walls.
And then, suddenly.
The sound of a gentle knock reverberated through the wooden door, instantly capturing my attention. Familiarity tinged the air as a voice, unmistakably belonging to Reid, called out my name with a tender concern. "Luna? Are you awake?"
It's Reid! What's he doing here right Now!? Was I too loud!?
My face was still beet red so I tried to calm myself down and straighten my sleeping pyjamas. “Y-Yes I'm awake please come in” I said as calmly as I could yet still sounded a bit excited.
"Sorry for the intrusion," Reid uttered with a gentle tone, his voice reverberating through the quietude of my dimly lit room. Gradually, he stepped inside, navigating the shadows with a graceful ease. As my eyes adjusted to the darkness, the contours of his figure became discernible.
He wore simple yet elegant white attire, a testament to his understated charm. A silver sword adorned his belt buckle, a symbol of his strength and valor. Even in the subdued lighting, his lustrous white hair cascaded with a captivating allure, framing his face in an ethereal glow. His eyes, a striking shade of blue, gleamed with a radiance that defied the darkness. In every aspect, he exuded a captivating magnetism, a combination of his outer appearance and the allure of his inner self.
Despite the concealment of the night, Reid's captivating presence could not be dampened. His dashing countenance, enhanced by the contrast of light and shadow, left an indelible impression that stirred a flutter within my heart.
"W-What is it, Reid?" I managed to utter, my voice betraying a subtle tremor as I sought to regain composure. Reid, a constant presence in my life since childhood, had been my steadfast companion even during times when my parents were absent.
“I was doing patrol duty when I heard a strange noise so I wanted to investigate it. Is everything alright?”
Really bad timing Reid!
“Oh, it was nothing, probably some birds outside making noises.” I tried to dodge the conversation as much as I could, I was not in a good image right now and did not want to be seen by anyone. Especially not Reid.
“Ah, then sorry for the intrusion” He said as he faced the door again but then he looked like he realized something and looked back towards me and instead of going outside he walked up to me and sat down on my bed right beside me.
"Ah, then sorry for the intrusion," he murmured, his gaze momentarily fixed on the door. However, a flicker of realization crossed his features, prompting him to redirect his attention towards me. Instead of departing, he approached and took a seat on my bed, positioning himself right beside me.
His presence, so close and intimate, caused a flutter of anticipation to ripple through me. I glanced at him, searching for a clue as to his intentions. There was a subtle shift in his demeanor, a hint of vulnerability masked by a composed exterior. As he settled beside me, I couldn't help but feel a comforting warmth emanating from his presence, an unspoken reassurance that he was there to listen and offer support.
Curiosity mingled with a tinge of apprehension in the air, like a delicate dance between two hearts on the brink of revelation. I held my breath, awaiting the words that lingered on the tip of his tongue, wondering what secrets he was about to unveil in the solace of this private moment.
"W-What are you doing?" I managed to utter, my voice laced with a mix of surprise and anticipation. My thoughts raced, spiraling in a whirlwind of possibilities and uncertainties.
A sudden realization struck me like a lightning bolt. Could this be it? Could he be about to propose right here, in this very moment? Panic swirled within me as I mentally pleaded for my heart to steady its frantic rhythm. I wasn't prepared for such a profound declaration, not yet.
My heart pounded in my chest, threatening to burst free from its confines. Heat flushed my cheeks, betraying the intensity of my emotions. The room seemed to shrink, its air thick with anticipation and unspoken words. Each passing second felt like an eternity, as if time had paused to witness this delicate juncture.
I awaited his response, my eyes locked on his face, searching for the truth hidden within his gaze. In that suspended moment, everything was heightened—the flutter of my heartbeat, the warmth in my cheeks, and the unspoken bond that connected us.
"Luna," his voice caressed my name, causing a shiver to run down my spine. I couldn't help but flinch at the sound, my entire face surely flushed crimson. Though the darkness offered some solace, I couldn't be certain he hadn't sensed the burning heat that had consumed my cheeks. His proximity added to my unease, our faces only inches apart.
My thoughts raced, echoing in the depths of my mind. Please, just say it already! I can't bear this suspense any longer! The anticipation threatened to overwhelm me, each passing second intensifying the weight of unspoken words between us.
"Can't sleep?" he inquired, his voice laced with concern and genuine curiosity. His question pierced through the silence, disrupting the tumultuous whirlwind of emotions that had consumed me.
Eh?
"W-What?" I stammered in response, needing to confirm his words.
"Is it because of tomorrow that you can't sleep?" he deduced, his voice tinged with understanding. I couldn't bring myself to meet his gaze, my embarrassment overwhelming me. I wanted to vanish into thin air, to escape the foolish thoughts that had taken hold of me. How could I have entertained the idea that Reid would propose to me in this moment? It was a foolish notion, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of frustration directed at myself.
“Nervous?” He asked me again.
“… A little bit.”
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“Well, whatever happens, remember that I will be with you every step of the way. It's because I really care about you.”
What? What did he say?
"It's because I really care about you."
"I really care about you."
"Really care about you."
"I care about you."
"I care you."
"I Love you."
"KYAAAAAAAAAAA!" I shrieked, my mind racing with the sudden realization of a hidden meaning behind Reid's words.
"Whoa!? Luna, what happened?" Reid's concerned voice filled the room as he stood up, confusion etched across his face.
"PLEASE LEAVE IMMEDIATELY!" I exclaimed, scrambling to my feet and urgently guiding him towards the door.
"Huh!? But what did I do?" Reid's bewildered expression mirrored my own inner turmoil. I knew I had to remove him from my room before I did anything out of a misunderstanding.
"PLEASE, JUST LEAVE!" I pleaded, pushing him out and swiftly closing the door behind him, my heart pounding with a mix of embarrassment, anxiety, and the need to gather myself in solitude.
“If I have done anything to upset you then I'm very sorry. I was just worried” I heard Reid from behind the door.
Even though I was finally alone in my room, I couldn’t help but hide my face with my hands.
JEEZ! WHY DID I THREW HIM OUT!? IDIOT!
I flung myself onto my bed, but sleep eluded me completely, my heart racing in my chest. Reid's words echoed in my mind, "I love you."
I closed my eyes tightly, attempting to find solace in slumber, but his declaration resounded in my ears, refusing to fade away. Every time I thought I could finally drift into dreams, his words reverberated once again, filling my thoughts and intensifying the whirlwind of emotions within me.
Again, and again, “I love you.” Kept repeating in my head.
{Author note: he clearly didn't say that.}
I buried my face into the softness of my pillow, muffling my scream of frustration. "KYAAAAAAAAAAA!" The sound escaped in a hushed and subdued manner. Tossing and turning in bed, my body restless with adrenaline, sleep continued to elude me.
Every fiber of my being was consumed by swirling thoughts and racing emotions, rendering my attempts at finding rest futile. The sheer intensity of the moment had awakened a surge of energy within me, making the prospect of sleep seem distant and unattainable. The bed became a battlefield of restless movements as I yearned for tranquility, yet found myself entangled in a web of unease.
And then, a sudden realization struck me like a bolt of lightning. Could it be that Reid intends to propose to me tomorrow? The mere thought sent my mind spinning, conjuring vivid scenarios of how he might express his love, envisioning a future filled with shared joys and the patter of little feet. The sheer weight of these possibilities overwhelmed me, and I buried my face once more into the comforting embrace of my pillow, unable to contain my excitement.
"KYAAAAAA!" A muffled cry escaped my lips, the sound absorbed by the soft fabric. The intensity of my emotions, a mix of anticipation and elation, echoed through the room. With each replayed scene in my mind's eye, the anticipation surged, filling my being with a delightful sense of wonder and trepidation.
*Next day*
"I couldn't sleep a wink," I confessed wearily to Mia, my devoted maid and cherished childhood friend who was making me presentable for the crowning. Her gentle touch guided the brush through my unruly locks, transforming them into a semblance of presentability. With her curly silvery-white hair and captivating light blue eyes, Mia radiated a comforting presence. Among all the people in my life, she alone knew about my heart's secret desire for Reid.
Mia's knowing gaze met mine in the reflection of the mirror. We had shared countless secrets and dreams since our earliest days, and she understood the depth of my feelings. Her unwavering support had been a constant source of solace, a safe haven in which I could confide my hopes and fears. As the brush glided through my hair, the familiar rhythm served as a soothing balm to my restless mind.
Together, we prepared for the day that promised both excitement and uncertainty. I clung to Mia's friendship, finding comfort in her presence amidst the whirlwind of emotions that threatened to consume me. With each stroke of the brush, she helped me armor myself in the strength and confidence needed to face whatever awaited me at the crowning.
Mia's concerned gaze met mine as she noticed the fatigue etched beneath my eyes. Her voice carried a gentle reproach, laced with genuine worry. "Jeez, Luna, you have dark circles under your eyes. What kept you up all night?"
I exhaled, a mix of exhaustion and anticipation tugging at my voice. "I couldn't resist, Mia. Reid paid me a visit." The words spilled out, tinged with a blend of excitement and trepidation. Mia sighed, understanding the effect Reid had on my restless heart, and proceeded to assist me with the delicate task of slipping into the exquisite gown.
The dress, a vision in white, adorned with intricate frills, held an ethereal beauty that accentuated my every movement. Its flowing fabric cascaded gracefully, barely grazing the floor, while subtle glimmers danced upon its surface, casting a soft glow. As Mia adjusted the gown, her fingers deftly arranging each detail, I couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation mingled with a twinge of nervousness.
Mia's eyes sparkled with pride as I twirled around, the dress billowing with grace and elegance. Her smile was infectious, mirroring the joy that radiated from within me.
"Thank you, Mia. You truly are the best," I expressed, my voice brimming with gratitude and admiration for my faithful friend.
She waved off the compliment with a dismissive gesture, her attention already focused on the task at hand. "It was my pleasure, Luna. Now, time is of the essence. The ceremony for your crowning has already begun. You must make your way there within five minutes."
My eyes widened in disbelief at Mia's words. "So soon?" I repeated, my voice filled with a mixture of surprise and apprehension.
Mia's determined expression remained unchanged as she responded briskly, "Yes, Luna. Someone wouldn't wake up, no matter how hard I tried. We have no time to waste. Let's go!"
Before I could protest or fully grasp the situation, Mia firmly took hold of my hand, her grip reassuring and filled with purpose. With resolute determination, she pulled me along, guiding me through the corridors of the castle. The urgent pace matched the racing of my heart, each step amplifying the significance of the moment.
As we emerged from my room, my eyes fell upon Reid, waiting patiently just outside. His presence sent a jolt of electricity through me, momentarily distracting me from the gravity of the situation. Despite the flurry of emotions within me, there was a reassuring calmness in his eyes.
"Reid!?" I exclaimed, unable to contain my surprise as my eyes locked onto his figure. Dressed in a sleek black butler's suit, his hair immaculately styled, he exuded an air of sophistication that made my heart skip a beat.
A small smile tugged at the corners of Reid's lips as he responded, "You took your time. Thanks for your help, Mia."
I noticed a faint blush coloring Mia's cheeks beside me, and a possessive thought flickered in my mind. Hey, even if you're my best friend, I'm not giving him to you. I playfully mused inwardly.
Reid extended his hand towards me, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "Let's go, my Princess," he said, his voice laced with warmth and affection.
My heart fluttered at his words, and a delicate blush colored my cheeks. I hesitated for a moment, feeling a rush of emotions swirling within me. With a shy smile, I reached out and placed my hand in his, feeling a comforting sense of belonging as our fingers intertwined.
With Reid's hand in mine, we hurriedly made our way to the entrance of the grand hall where the crowning ceremony was about to take place. The massive doors loomed before us, standing tall and imposing, their intricate carvings telling stories of generations past. The muffled sound of the priest's voice reached my ears, but my nerves overshadowed any clear comprehension of his words.
As we approached the closed doors, a mix of anticipation and anxiety surged through me. I glanced up at Reid, finding solace in his presence. His unwavering support and steady gaze gave me a newfound sense of courage. With a deep breath, I readied myself to step into the realm of responsibility and leadership that awaited me.
“Nervous?” Reid asked me.
“…Yes.” I said as I was looking down at the marble floor.
“Don't worry. Like I said before, I will be beside you every step of the way.”
I blushed and he went towards the doors.
“Let's go?”
It was then that I noticed that the priest had called my name. I was flustered but Reid didn't give me a chance and opened the door to the hallway.
The hall stretched before me, a grand expanse of beauty and splendor. Its length spanned about twenty meters, creating a sense of grandeur and majesty. Majestic marble pillars rose to support the high ceiling, their intricate designs reminiscent of a rich and storied history. Soft light filtered through stained glass windows, casting a gentle glow upon the assembled crowd.
To either side of the hall, my people stood, their faces filled with anticipation and pride. It seemed as though our entire tribe had gathered, a testament to the unity and strength that bound us together. The air was filled with an undercurrent of excitement and joy, the collective energy of our tribe palpable.
A vibrant red carpet stretched from the entrance to the far end of the hall, guiding the way to the three ornate thrones at the edge. Two of the thrones were occupied by my esteemed parents, the King and Queen of our tribe, radiating regal elegance and wisdom. The third throne, positioned between them, stood empty, patiently awaiting my arrival.
The priest stood tall and dignified, his presence commanding the attention of all those gathered. He stood beside my father, who exuded an air of regality and wisdom befitting his role as the King. Though time had etched a few wrinkles upon his face, they only served to accentuate the depth of his experience and the weight of his responsibilities. A golden crown adorned his short, silver-grayish hair, symbolizing his position of power and authority.
Beside him, my mother emanated a radiant smile that lit up the room. Her hair, a lustrous cascade of silver and white, flowed gracefully down her back, reminiscent of a cascading waterfall. Each strand seemed to gleam with its own ethereal glow, as if touched by moonlight. Her beauty and grace were unmatched, embodying the elegance and grace befitting a queen.
As I stood there, engulfed by the gaze of countless eyes, a wave of nervousness and uncertainty washed over me. The weight of my impending responsibilities seemed to press upon my shoulders, threatening to overwhelm me. It was in that moment of vulnerability that Reid, ever perceptive, reached out his hand to offer me comfort and reassurance.
I blushed at his gesture, feeling a surge of warmth spread through me. With a nod, I accepted his outstretched hand, grateful for his presence beside me. His touch conveyed a sense of calm and strength, grounding me amidst the sea of anticipation that filled the hall.
Together, we walked towards my father, who awaited my arrival with pride and anticipation in his eyes. The journey seemed shorter with Reid's support, his presence serving as a steady anchor amidst the whirlwind of emotions swirling within me.
As we approached the priest, Reid respectfully stepped back, allowing me to stand before him. The space he created provided me with the opportunity to gather my thoughts and summon the courage needed for this pivotal moment in my life. I could feel his unwavering support, even from a slight distance, as he stood there behind me, like a pillar of strength and encouragement.
The priest then suddenly announces. “Do you, Luna. take the job of a princess. And swear to always think of your tribe first before anything and lead them to salvation?”
As the priest's voice echoed through the grand hall, his words carried the weight of tradition and solemnity. The gravity of his question settled upon me, urging me to reflect on the immense responsibility that lay ahead.
With unwavering determination and a deep sense of purpose, I met the priest's gaze and spoke with clarity and conviction, my voice resonating through the hall. "I do."
“Then by the power invested in me I declare you, OUR PRINCESS!!!” The preist announces and raises his hands in celebration.
Huh?
Wasn't that too short?
As the weight of my response settled upon the hall, emotions began to surge among those gathered. I looked towards my father, whose eyes shimmered with tears of pride and joy. His voice quivered with a mixture of emotions as he murmured, "My daughter is so big now." My mother, by his side, reached out to comfort him, reminding him gently, "Ara, dear, we're still in the midst of the ceremony."
Ehhhh? Was that really it!?
Reid walked up to me, “You're a real princess now Luna. How do you feel?”
“I Uhh, I feel great.” I said with a mix of confusion and relief.
Mainly because it was so short and easy.
“Well, you're everyone's princess now… and also mine”
Eh?
I looked at Reid and he got down on one knee.
No Way!? This is a Lie Right!?
“Luna, I never got the courage before to say this. But…”
ITS REALLY HERE!!!!!!! HE'S PROPOSING TO ME!!!!!!
My heart was beating too fast and I think my whole face was beet red.
“Will you marry me?”
As the words escaped Reid's lips, time seemed to freeze for a brief moment. The question hung in the air, charged with anticipation. And then, without hesitation, my voice erupted with a resounding, "I WILLLLL!!!"
Overwhelmed with joy and excitement, I leaped forward, driven by an irresistible urge to embrace Reid. But, in an unexpected twist of fate, reality intervened, reminding me of the limitations of the physical world. Instead of finding myself wrapped in his arms, I discovered that I had somehow miscalculated my leap, causing me to crash face-first onto the cold, unforgiving marble floor.
The abrupt impact jolted me out of my elation, and a mix of surprise, embarrassment, and a tinge of pain flooded through me. Groaning softly, I propped myself up, my cheeks flushing with a combination of emotions—my heart still soaring with the happiness of Reid's proposal, yet also feeling a twinge of foolishness for my less-than-graceful landing.
Huh?
I then realized something… I wasn’t in the auditorium with Reid, the priest and my people. I was actually in my room. I looked behind me and saw my tousled bed, the displaced pillow, and the soft blanket abandoned on the floor
Turning my gaze toward the window, I witnessed the gentle transformation of the night sky as the first rays of dawn painted it in a palette of soft oranges and pinks. The realization settled upon me that it was merely the beginning of a new day, devoid of the grandeur and spectacle I was experiencing moments ago.
“It was all a dream…”
Ha…
Hahaha…
HahahahahahaHAHAHAHAH!!!
I was furious. Frustration surged through me as the remnants of the dream slipped further away, leaving me with a bitter aftertaste. The disappointment mingled with fatigue, weighing down my limbs and clouding my thoughts. Pouting, I resorted to seeking solace in the soft embrace of my pillow.
With a mixture of annoyance and exhaustion, I surrendered to sleep once again. The events of the dream still echoed faintly in my mind, a haunting reminder of what could have been. As I drifted off, my emotions swirled in a whirlwind of frustration and anger, unable to fully comprehend the enigmatic nature of dreams and the unpredictable path they tread.
Wrapped in the oblivion of slumber, my body succumbed to the weariness that enveloped me. Like a dormant log, I lay motionless, oblivious to the passing of time and the outer world. The vexation that had gripped me gradually dissolved into the realm of dreams, mingling with other emotions and scenarios that played out in the depths of my subconscious.
Though my anger simmered beneath the surface, my body found solace in the blissful realm of uninterrupted rest. Oblivious to the turmoil within, I sank deeper into sleep, allowing the weariness to lull me into a peaceful oblivion.