*Luna POV*

Startled from my slumber, I blinked rapidly to adjust my vision, only to be met with the sight of Mia's frantic face hovering above me. She shook me with urgency, her hands grasping my shoulders tightly, as if desperately trying to rouse me from a deep slumber.

My mind, still clouded by the remnants of sleep, struggled to comprehend her words. "Luna, wake up already!" Her voice pierced through the fog of drowsiness, injecting a sense of urgency into my groggy consciousness.

Confusion and panic mingled within me as her words sank in. "Huh? I'm up! I'm up! Don't tell me we're late!?" I replied, my voice laced with a hint of alarm. The weight of responsibility and the fear of missing the crowning ceremony tugged at my consciousness.

But Mia's next words shattered my preconceived notion. "No! We're being attacked! I have to get you to safety!" Her voice trembled with a mixture of determination and fear, fueling my own apprehension.

A surge of adrenaline shot through my veins, banishing the remnants of sleep and replacing it with a heightened sense of awareness. The gravity of the situation weighed upon me, pushing aside any lingering traces of drowsiness. Thoughts raced through my mind as I grappled to understand the sudden shift in circumstances.

Mia's perspiring brow and labored breath caught my attention next, breaking through the fog of confusion. It was then that the gravity of the situation fully hit me, dispelling any remnants of drowsiness. Something terrible had unfolded, and the urgency in Mia's demeanor painted a vivid picture of the danger that loomed outside the confines of my room.

“Where's mom and dad-” Fear gripped my heart as I attempted to voice my concerns, but my words were abruptly silenced by the cacophony that erupted beyond the sanctuary of my chambers. Piercing screams pierced the air, blending with the distinct sound of clashing swords, a symphony of chaos that sent shivers down my spine.

A sense of gravity hung in the air, enveloping the room in an eerie silence. Fear and determination mingled within me, my body trembling with a mix of apprehension and readiness. The weight of my training pressed upon me, the countless hours spent honing my magical abilities, preparing me for moments like this. My hand instinctively rose, fingers poised to channel the power within me.

Before I could unleash my magic, the door swung open, revealing a sight that both startled and relieved me. Reid, clad in blood-stained attire, burst into the room, his energy pulsating with a fierce vitality. Though his appearance was marred by the crimson stains, he stood tall and seemingly unharmed, a beacon of strength amidst the chaos.

"Luna! Mia! Are you two okay!?" Reid's voice rang out, laced with genuine concern. His presence brought a surge of reassurance, momentarily dispelling the fear that had gripped my heart.

“R-Reid!? Forgot about me, what about you?! What's going on!?” I screamed, worried about his wellbeing.

“No time to explain! I'm getting you to safety!”

“Wait! Where's mom and dad?”

“Don't worry, we made sure that they're safe. You’re the last one! Come now, we don't have time to lose!”

Reid's words pierced through the tension that hung in the air, offering a glimmer of solace in the midst of chaos. His voice carried a mix of urgency and reassurance, a testament to his unwavering determination to safeguard those we held dear.

"Don't worry, we made sure that the King and Queen are safe. You're the last one!" Reid's words resonated, both comforting and perplexing me. My relief at knowing my parents were out of harm's way mingled with a growing sense of confusion. The weight of his statement settled upon me, stirring a whirlwind of questions within my mind. What did he mean by the last one?

As I mulled over these thoughts, Reid's attention shifted, his gaze fixated on something beyond the confines of the room. He peeked cautiously outside the door, his commitment to our safety unwavering even in the face of imminent danger.

"Okay, we don't have time to lose. We have to leave now," he declared, his voice tinged with urgency. His directive snapped me back to the present, reminding me of the imminent peril that surrounded us. I let out a sigh, a mix of relief and anticipation, knowing that swift action was our only recourse.

Turning to Mia, Reid's words painted a clear path to safety. His voice carried a note of authority as he entrusted her with a critical task. "Mia, your parents are evacuating through the Kitchen's secret door. They should be waiting for you over there right now, so go quickly. I'll take care of Luna."

My heart raced as I turned to Reid, desperately seeking answers in the midst of the chaos. “Wait, Reid! What’s our situation?”

Reid's voice carried a mix of urgency and determination as he delivered the grim reality. "We're being attacked," he explained, his tone tinged with concern. "I don't know who they are, but they've outnumbered us 5 to 1. We have no chance of resistance. your father already gave us the order for evacuation so our only option now is to escape."

The weight of his words settled upon my shoulders, threatening to crush me with their implications. Panic welled up inside me, but before I could succumb to it, I felt Mia's warm hand in mine, grounding me in that moment. Her presence offered a glimmer of reassurance amidst the fear and uncertainty.

I turned to Mia, our eyes locking in a silent exchange of shared apprehension. We both understood the severity of the situation and the imminent danger we faced. But in that moment, our connection provided a much-needed source of strength. I squeezed her hand, finding solace in the solidarity we shared.

“Luna, you have to take care of yourself okay?” Mia's words struck a chord deep within me, and I could hear the vulnerability in her voice. Her hoarseness revealed the strain she had endured, and tears welled up in her eyes. The weight of the situation was overwhelming, and the fear of what lay ahead washed over us both.

With a resolute nod, I assured Mia that I would take care of myself. It was a promise I intended to keep, no matter the challenges that awaited me. We embraced tightly, seeking solace in each other's presence, knowing that it might be our last encounter for a while. She then gave a final nod to Reid and left. Tears started streamed down my face as the reality sank in—I had no idea when or if I would see her again.

A surge of anxiety threatened to consume me as dark thoughts crept into my mind. The possibility of Mia being harmed or worse loomed heavily, casting a shadow over my thoughts. But I quickly shook my head, banishing those bleak scenarios from my mind. I had to remain focused and think positively. Dwelling on the worst-case scenarios would only hinder my ability to navigate the obstacles ahead.

Taking a deep breath, I gathered my resolve and reminded myself that I had strength within me. I repeated the mantra of hope, affirming that everything would be alright. It was a reminder to stay positive, to hold onto the belief that we would overcome this trial and be reunited in a brighter future.

My gaze shifted towards Reid, and a wave of concern washed over me as I noticed the peculiar sight before me. His body was adorned with streaks of blood, but upon closer inspection, it became evident that it was not his own. As I observed him further, I realized that he was clutching his sides tightly, his hands serving as a makeshift barrier to prevent his own blood from seeping through.

The worry in my voice was unmistakable as I approached him, closing the distance between us. I couldn't ignore the fact that he was injured, and the sight of his blood-stained form only heightened my concern.

"You're hurt!" I exclaimed, my voice laced with genuine worry.

“Don't worry about it, I’ll live, we have to get you out of here first.” He said but my immediate instinct was to tend to his injuries, to alleviate his pain and ensure his well-being. Disregarding his words urging me to prioritize my own safety, I focused my attention solely on him.

Reid's attempt to downplay his injuries only fueled my determination to help him. Ignoring his protests, I summoned my healing magic, a warm glow emanating from my hands. The radiance enveloped the area where he was wounded, and I watched with relief as the gash began to slowly mend itself.

The healing magic worked its restorative powers, knitting together the torn flesh and easing Reid's pain. The once-bleeding wound transformed into a visibly mending patch of skin, a testament to the healing abilities at my disposal.

In that moment, my focus shifted solely to Reid's well-being. The urgency of our situation momentarily took a backseat as I prioritized his immediate healing.

Since childhood, I had honed my skills in the art of magic. Whether it was for self-defense or aiding others, I never anticipated that my abilities would one day be instrumental in saving a life. Reflecting on the situation at hand, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having acquired these magical talents.

As I cast my gaze upon Reid, I noticed a hint of helplessness in his eyes, his expression mirroring the urgency of our circumstances. His words, laden with concern, resonated with the gravity of the situation.

"Please," he implored, his voice carrying a sense of urgency. "Don't waste your energy. We must prioritize your escape."

His plea struck a chord within me, emphasizing the importance of our own safety and survival. Reid's selflessness and concern for my well-being were evident, reminding me of the need to focus on our imminent escape.

Though part of me wished to heal his injuries completely, I understood the wisdom behind his words. By conserving my energy, I would be better equipped to face the challenges that awaited us. There was no time to dwell on our current predicament, as every moment counted.

I nodded in agreement, understanding the urgency of our situation, and tightly clasped Reid's hand as we ventured out of the relative safety of my room. With cautious steps, he guided me through the dimly lit hallway, his gaze darting from one corner to another, ever watchful for any sign of lurking danger.

As we moved forward, the somber reality of the situation unfolded before us. The once familiar passageways were now stained with blood, and lifeless bodies, both those of our supposed adversaries and our own people, lay strewn in disarray. The sight sent a shiver down my spine, and a mix of grief, anger, and determination welled up within me.

I couldn't bear to look too closely at the fallen, knowing that some of them were once my comrades, friends, and allies. Their lives had been abruptly snuffed out, their hopes and dreams extinguished in the chaos that had engulfed us. The weight of their sacrifice and the immense loss echoed through the air, reminding me of the gravity of the situation we faced.

A wave of anguish washed over me as I caught sight of familiar faces among the fallen. My heart felt as though it would burst from the sheer weight of sorrow and grief. Every fiber of my being urged me to stay, to pay my respects, and to mourn the lives lost. It was a struggle to keep moving, to push aside the overwhelming sadness threatening to immobilize me.

But deep within, a voice reminded me that now was not the time for mourning. It was a time for survival, for escape. With immense effort, I willed my body to keep moving forward, to follow Reid's lead as he guided me away from the haunting scene.

Tears blurred my vision, making it difficult to see the path ahead clearly. Yet, I pressed on, relying on Reid's steadfast presence and the resolve that burned within me. I refused to let grief consume me entirely, knowing that I had a responsibility to the living, to those who still had a chance to make it out of this nightmare.

As we traversed the dimly lit corridors, Reid skillfully led me to an unexpected destination: my father's secret wine cellar. It was a place my mother was unaware of, a hidden sanctuary known only to a select few. The irony of seeking refuge in such a clandestine location amidst the chaos was not lost on me.

I took a moment to steady myself, my hands trembling as I wiped away the tears that streaked my face. The cellar, usually associated with leisure and indulgence, now held a different purpose. It became a temporary sanctuary, a hiding place from the horrors that lurked beyond its doors.

We both entered the desolate room, Reid's determined gaze scanned the surroundings, his eyes settling on a seemingly inconspicuous spot. With a swift motion, he lifted the carpet, unveiling a concealed trapdoor hidden beneath. The air grew heavy with anticipation as the secrets of the room were revealed before us.

With a creaking sound, the trapdoor swung open, revealing a hidden passage that descended into the depths of darkness. A sturdy ladder awaited, its rungs disappearing into the unknown abyss below. There was no time for hesitation. I met Reid's gaze, understanding the urgency of our situation, and nodded in silent agreement.

Cautiously, I began my descent, each step echoing through the narrow stone walls that enveloped me. The darkness grew thicker with each rung I descended, enveloping me like a suffocating cloak. It was difficult to see anything beyond the reach of my outstretched hand. I looked up and Reid carefully placed back the carpet before closing the trapdoor and enveloping us in darkness.

Realizing the need for illumination, I summoned the magic within me, casting a soft glow that emanated from my fingertips. The ethereal light cast long shadows against the rough-hewn walls, revealing the ancient cobblestones that lined the underground passage. It was a stark contrast to the vibrant world I had known just moments before.

The flickering light danced across the stone, creating a dimly lit path that led me forward. I continued my descent, the echoes of my footsteps mingling with the hushed whispers of uncertainty that echoed within my mind.

As I reached the bottom of the ladder, my eyes adjusted to the dim light of the secret wine cellar. Wooden barrels, weathered with age, stood as sentinels amidst the musty air. The scent of oak and wine permeated the space, creating a comforting familiarity in the midst of chaos. As I looked around the dimly lit room, the rows of wine bottles lining the shelfs on the walls seemed to watch over us, silent witnesses to our struggle for survival.

I began to explore the cellar, my steps cautious, searching for any sign of solace or familiarity. The dim glow of my magical light cast eerie shadows against the damp walls, adding an ethereal ambiance to the scene.

In the midst of my search, a soft voice called out my name, drawing my attention to a cluster of barrels. My heart skipped a beat as I recognized the figures concealed behind the wooden casks. It was my parents, seeking refuge in the depths of this hidden sanctuary.

I watched as my parents emerged from their hiding place behind the barrels, their faces a mixture of relief and worry. The emotions that surged within me were overwhelming, and without a second thought, I threw myself into their waiting arms. The familiar embrace enveloped me in a sense of security that I had sorely missed.

"Mama! Papa!" I choked out, my voice laced with equal parts relief and joy. Tears welled in my mother's eyes as she held me close, her touch a soothing balm to my battered spirit. My father's arms encircled us both, his voice filled with gratitude and a hint of trepidation.

"Thank goodness you're okay," my mother whispered, her voice quivering with the weight of the events that had unfolded.

As the three of us stood there, clinging to one another, I turned my gaze to Reid, who had played such a crucial role in ensuring our safety. His presence was unwavering, a silent guardian who had guided me through the darkest of times. My father's gratitude mirrored my own, and he stepped forward, extending his hand to Reid.

"Thank you, Reid," my father began, his voice filled with sincerity. "Your bravery and selflessness have not gone unnoticed. We owe you a debt of gratitude."

Reid, ever humble, nodded in acknowledgment and placed his closed hand over his heart, a sign of respect and humility. "Don't be, your highness," he replied with a quiet determination. "I am merely doing what I believe is right. My mission is not yet complete, and I must see it through. Please take care of yourselves and stay safe."

I was wondering why he didn’t stand close to us when I looked at him to notice that he was heading back to the ladder. I realized what he was doing and my voice trembled with desperation as I called out to him, my heart pounding in my chest. Reid's figure paused on the ladder, his face partially illuminated by the dim light coming out of my finger tips.

"Wait, Reid!" I pleaded, the urgency evident in my tone. He had already ascended a step, but he halted, turning his gaze back towards me. The mixture of determination and fear in his eyes mirrored my own conflicted emotions.

"Stay with us," I implored, my voice laden with genuine concern. I couldn't bear the thought of losing him too, of adding his name to the ever-growing list of fallen comrades. The weight of the losses we had suffered pressed upon me, fueling my fear and desperation.

Reid's expression softened, and a bittersweet smile graced his lips. His response carried both innocence and a sense of resignation, a testament to the gravity of the situation we found ourselves in.

"You know I can't do that, right?" he replied, his voice carrying a hint of regret. The simple truth in his words struck me like a dagger, cutting through my hopes and aspirations. His duty called him, and he couldn't turn away.

Eh?

“A lot of my good friends died today. I have to save the rest who aren't dead right now.” I watched in anguish as Reid continued his ascent, his resolve unyielding despite my desperate pleas. The weight of his words settled heavily upon me, each syllable driving home the gravity of the situation. The losses we had suffered this day had shaken us to our core, leaving scars that would forever mark our memories.

Please don’t go!

"WHAT IF YOU GET KILLED!" I cried out, my voice trembling with raw emotion. It was a selfish outburst, born out of fear and frustration. “You came in my room with that giant wound on yourself! What makes you so sure you'll survive again!”

Reid scratched his head, his expression one of helplessness and understanding. His response offered no reassurance, no promise of survival, but a determination to face whatever lay ahead.

"Maybe not... but that won't stop me from trying," he murmured, his voice tinged with resignation. The words pierced my heart, a reminder of the harsh realities we faced. It was a testament to his unwavering commitment, even in the face of uncertainty and danger.

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No please don’t leave me!

Desperation overwhelmed me, my thoughts swirling in a maelstrom of conflicting emotions. I reached out, my hand stretched towards him, my voice trembling as I called out his name, pleading for him to reconsider. But my cries fell on deaf ears as he emerged from the cellar, sealing the trapdoor behind him, leaving us in an eerie silence.

Time stood still, the weight of his absence settling upon us like a heavy fog. My heart ached, torn between the need to protect those I loved and the understanding that sometimes sacrifices must be made for a greater cause. The empty space he left behind felt like a void, a reminder of the uncertain path that lay before us.

YOU IDIOT! WHY ARE YOU TRYING TO BE A HERO!

As the desperation to chase after Reid consumed me, my instincts for self-preservation crumbled under the weight of my determination. My entire being focused solely on reaching him, on preventing him from venturing into the unknown alone. I turned towards my mother, my voice trembling with urgency and desperation.

"Mama! I'm going after him!" I practically screamed, my plea echoing through the cellar. The sense of urgency that pulsed within me drowned out any rational thought, leaving only a single-minded determination to join Reid in his mission.

But my father, as if anticipating my intentions, positioned himself firmly between me and the ladder that led to the outside world. His voice was filled with stern resolve as he addressed me, trying to shield me from the dangers that lay ahead.

"No, you aren't," he declared, his tone leaving no room for negotiation. My heart sank as his words sank in, and I felt the weight of his authority pressing down upon me.

"Papa, please! I beg you! Just this once, move out of the way!" I pleaded, my voice quivering with a mix of desperation and frustration. I couldn't understand why he was holding me back, why he couldn't see the urgency of the situation.

But my father's response shattered my already fragile resolve. He spoke with a mixture of concern and firmness, reminding me of the overwhelming odds we faced, the unknown enemy that had decimated our ranks.

"No! You have no idea who we're up against!" his voice rang out, punctuating the gravity of the situation. His words pierced through my determination, injecting a dose of reality into my fervor.

"All the more reason to go, right?!" I retorted, my voice filled with a mix of anguish and determination. The sight of the fallen, the loss we had endured, burned brightly within me, fueling my need to rescue those who still had a chance.

But my pleas fell on deaf ears as my father stood his ground, his resolve unyielding. In that moment, he dropped a bombshell that shook me to my core, threatening to shatter the fragile hope that clung to my heart.

"No! Everyone is already dead! What makes you think you can help? You'll just drag everyone down as they try to save you!" The words sliced through the air, piercing my heart with a searing pain. The weight of those words hung heavy in the silence that followed.

What?

My voice caught in my throat, my emotions strangling any words that tried to escape. A lump formed, blocking the passage of sound as I struggled to comprehend the devastating truth that my father was revealing.

"Wait... What do you mean... that everyone is dead?" My voice finally broke free, though it trembled with disbelief and anguish. My eyes searched my father's face, desperate for an answer, for some semblance of hope to cling to.

Papa's expression darkened, his gaze turning away from mine as if unable to bear the weight of my questioning eyes. I could feel the gravity of his words before they even left his lips, a heavy silence hanging between us.

"Hours ago, they attacked us suddenly, for no reason," he began, his voice laced with sorrow and bitterness. The weight of the tragedy unfolded before me as he recounted the horrors that had unfolded. "We tried to stop them, to negotiate, but they kept killing my people. We fought back, but they were too many... Right now, the only ones alive that I know of are only us, Mia, her parents, and Reid."

The room seemed to close in around me as the magnitude of the loss settled heavily upon my shoulders. The reality of the situation enveloped me, leaving me paralyzed with grief and disbelief. The faces of the fallen flashed through my mind, their laughter, their kindness, their dreams now extinguished forever.

No way… Right?

As I crumpled to the ground, my legs giving way beneath the weight of the devastating news, a flood of memories engulfed my mind. The images of once vibrant and joyous faces filled my thoughts, each one etched with warmth and love, now forever frozen in time.

I recalled the laughter that echoed through the halls of the castle, the playful moments shared with those who had become like family to me. They had been more than servants or subjects; they had been the heart and soul of our small castle, devoted to their duties and caring for one another with unwavering loyalty.

Mrs. Marie, our beloved cook, her radiant smile brightening the kitchen as she prepared delicious feasts for all to enjoy. I remembered the excitement that filled the air when she announced her pregnancy, and the joy that overflowed when her child was born. The little one had just celebrated their fourth birthday a few days ago too, a precious life full of promise.

And Mr. Robert, the wise and patient chess opponent who would challenge my father and me, always pushing us to improve our strategic skills. Though my father would sometimes grow frustrated at his inability to claim victory, the bond they shared was undeniable, a testament to the camaraderie that existed within our community.

The Triplets, Rose, Daisy, and Jasmine, their infectious giggles and mischievous adventures filling the castle with an air of youthful exuberance. I could almost feel the delicate touch of their hands as they wove a flower crown for me, a testament to the innocence and beauty that resided within their hearts.

My mother, her arms enveloping me in a tender embrace, shared in my sorrow. Tears streamed down her face, mirroring the anguish that gripped my own heart. Even my father, his eyes glistening with unshed tears, could not escape the overwhelming grief that now engulfed us all.

As the weight of the devastating news settled upon my shoulders, I sank deeper into the abyss of despair. The once vibrant world around me seemed muted, devoid of color and life. Waves of sorrow crashed over me, threatening to drown me in their relentless grip.

It felt as though time itself had come to a standstill, my mind trapped in a haze of disbelief and anguish.

How could I have been oblivious to the horrors unfolding while I slumbered peacefully?

A profound emptiness consumed me, rendering me numb and detached from my surroundings. The very essence of hope had been snuffed out, replaced by a desolate void that echoed with the cries of lost souls. Depression, an inadequate word to describe the depths of my despair, settled upon me like a suffocating shroud.

In that moment, all sense of perception abandoned me. Sight, sound, touch—all faded into insignificance as the enormity of the tragedy engulfed my being. I was suspended in a realm of nothingness, where even the most basic sensations eluded me.

Time became an elusive concept, slipping through my grasp as I floated adrift in a sea of sorrow. How long had I remained trapped within the confines of my despair? It was impossible to say. Minutes, hours, days—they all melded together in a relentless stream of anguish.

But then, like a flickering flame in the darkness, a spark of awareness ignited within me. I became aware of my mother's unwavering embrace, her presence a lifeline tethering me to reality. Tears streamed down my face, mingling with the remnants of my sorrow, as I reacquainted myself with the sensation of feeling.

Yet, even in the midst of my resurfacing consciousness, a haunting question lingered. The realization struck me like a bolt of lightning—Reid, the valiant soul who had risked everything to protect us, was nowhere to be found. Where had he gone in our darkest hour?

He was just with us, wasn’t he? he was going to bring me up to the priest before he proposed to me?

Even Mia was here? She was just dressing me up for the crowning?

Why are my mother and father crying? did the crowning already happened?

No…

Something’s wrong…

In an attempt to rouse myself from the bewildering haze, I resorted to physical measures. My palms collided with my cheeks, each resounding slap a jolt of awakening. The sting of the impact snapped me back to the grim truth that unfolded before me.

I shook my head vigorously, as if by sheer force of will I could shake off the disorienting fog that had descended upon my mind. Reality took hold once more, and the weight of the situation settled upon my shoulders.

My mother, sensing my distress, encircled me in a tender embrace, her arms wrapping around my arms in a protective gesture so I wouldn’t hurt myself. Her touch offered solace, grounding me in the present moment.

Though my mind still whirled with unanswered questions, I clung to the certainty that something was amiss. The pieces of the puzzle began to slowly align.

“If… we are the only ones alive then where did Reid went?” I asked in a heavy tone.

Silence hung heavy in the air as my question lingered, pressing against the hearts of my parents. Their reluctance to meet my gaze spoke volumes, intensifying the gnawing unease that had settled within me. Something was dreadfully amiss, and the answer to my query lay hidden in their evasive expressions.

With a heavy heart, I implored my father once more, my voice trembling with a mix of desperation and fear. "Papa... Where did Reid go?" The words hung in the stillness, their weight accentuated by the growing tension in the room.

My father’s eyes turned distant as he averted his gaze. The avoidance was palpable, an unspoken indication that what awaited me was a truth I may not be prepared to bear. Mama, her grip on me unyielding, mirrored his actions, her eyes fixed on a distant point as she clung to me for solace.

A shiver traced its way down my spine, a foreboding chill that hinted at the gravity of the situation. The silence persisted, stretching the seconds into an eternity, as I anxiously awaited an answer that I feared would shatter the fragile semblance of hope that remained.

Dread swirled within me, intertwining with the tendrils of fear that gripped my heart. I could sense that the truth, once revealed, would irrevocably alter the course of our lives. It was a moment teetering on the precipice, where ignorance still offered solace, yet the urgency to uncover the unknown propelled me forward.

My voice quivered with each passing second, beseeching for clarity in the face of mounting trepidation. "Please... Papa... Tell me... Where did Reid go?" The plea hung suspended as I braced myself for the truth that would soon be laid bare before me.

I could see the struggle in my Father’s eyes, the inner conflict of a father torn between shielding his child from the harsh truth and imparting the weighty knowledge that lay before us.

"He... volunteered to go on a suicide mission," my father's voice trembled with a mix of admiration and sorrow. The words hung in the air, heavy with the gravity of the sacrifice Reid had willingly chosen. A surge of emotions surged within me, a potent mixture of fear, admiration, and disbelief. “After everyone who’re alive are found, they will all escape from the secret tunnels made in various rooms. But we could still be found, so he will try to make the enemies chase him into the forest which would give everyone else a chance to escape.”

I swallowed hard, struggling to process the enormity of his decision. My breath caught in my throat, and a chill ran down my spine as I grappled with the realization that his life now teetered on the edge of uncertainty.

"He wanted to get you and us to safety, no matter what," my mother's voice quivered with a mix of sadness and admiration. Her words echoed through my being, further underscoring the profound depth of Reid's commitment and the lengths he was willing to go to safeguard our lives.

My father's gaze shifted towards the distance, a blend of admiration and a tinge of regret etched across his face. "I have known that boy for a long time, and now, he stands as a towering testament to bravery," he said, his voice laced with a blend of reverence and humility. The weight of his words settled upon me, highlighting the stark contrast between Reid's valor and our own shortcomings.

In that moment, a surge of desperation overcame me, drowning out the words of my parents. Their voices became distant echoes as my singular focus took hold, fueled by an indomitable determination to halt Reid's self-destructive path.

"Flashbang!" I cried out, channeling all the energy within me into a blinding burst of magic. The intense light enveloped the room, momentarily disorienting my parents. They were caught off guard by my sudden action, their eyes filled with momentary pain as they instinctively shielded themselves.

Seizing this fleeting opportunity, I sprinted towards the ladder, my heart pounding in my chest. The urgency of my mission propelled me forward, driving my every movement. My parents, still recovering from the flashbang's effects, called out to me, their voices laced with concern and a hint of confusion. Yet, I remained resolute, my mind set on a singular objective.

Ignoring their pleas, I ascended the ladder with a mix of determination and trepidation. Each rung brought me closer to the unknown, to the possibility of intercepting Reid before he carried out his selfless yet perilous mission. Every step resonated with a fierce determination to save the one who had risked everything for our sake.

Though my parents' voices followed me, their words were muffled and distant. The weight of their worry echoed faintly in my ears as I pressed on, my pulse racing in my veins. There was no time for doubt or hesitation—only the urgent need to reach Reid, to persuade him to reconsider his sacrifice.

As I emerged from the darkness of the secret cellar, the cool air of the outside world embraced me. There was no one nearby and a sense of urgency gripped me, driving me forward into the unknown. The path ahead was uncertain, fraught with danger and uncertainty, but I was undeterred.

I sprinted, my legs carrying me with an unyielding determination, the thought of Reid's selfless act propelling me forward. With each stride, my resolve solidified, fortified by the bonds of friendship and the understanding that I could not let him face this danger alone.

I burst out of the castle, my feet carrying me swiftly across the familiar grounds of the castle yard. The expansive castle gate stood before me, its grandeur reaching towards the sky. It was the sole entrance and exit that I had always known, and now it held the weight of my desperate pursuit.

As I approached the gate, my eyes widened at the sight that unfolded before me. Reid stood resolute, his back turned to me, positioned at the forefront. Hooded figures, numerous in their presence, assembled just beyond a small hill, their bows poised and ready. The tension in the air was palpable, a silent standoff between life and death.

A grim tableau greeted my gaze, strewn with the fallen bodies of both allies and enemies. The ground bore witness to the carnage that had unfolded, while Reid's once gleaming silver sword now bore the macabre stains of crimson, a testament to the battles fought and lives lost.

My heart sank at the realization of the enormity of the situation. This was the battlefield where hope collided with despair, where bravery clashed with the forces of darkness. And in the midst of it all stood Reid, a lone figure braving the storm, his determination etched onto every line of his blood-stained visage.

"Reid!" I called out his name, my voice filled with urgency and determination. His eyes widened with surprise as he turned to face me, the weight of his mission etched onto his weary expression.

"Luna! Why haven't you run away with the king yet!?" His words were laced with concern, his voice tinged with a hint of desperation. But in that moment, as I beheld the impending danger raining down upon us, I understood his intentions all too clearly.

The enemy archers unleashed a relentless volley of arrows, a deadly storm hurtling towards us. It dawned on me, in that heart-wrenching instant, that Reid intended to shield us with his own body while we made our escape. The selflessness of his sacrifice ignited a fierce anger within me, a flame that consumed my vision and clouded my thoughts in a crimson haze.

Clutching my fists tightly, I felt a surge of power coursing through my veins. It was a rage I had never known before, an intensity that transformed my surroundings. The world turned crimson, my focus narrowing to a singular point—Reid, and the imminent threat that loomed overhead.

Drawing upon the depths of my magical abilities, I summoned the essence of ice and protection. I channeled my energy into a spell known as Ice Shield, and before us, a colossal shield materialized. Crafted from solid ice, it hovered defiantly, a formidable barrier between us and the oncoming storm of arrows.

The cacophony of arrows colliding with the icy shield resonated in my ears, assuring me of our temporary safety. As the threat subsided, my vision gradually returned to its usual clarity, revealing the aftermath of our desperate defense.

Fatigue washed over me, a consequence of the immense mana expended to conjure and sustain the shield. My legs trembled beneath me, unable to bear the weight of exhaustion any longer. I sank to my knees, the cold ground embracing me with a chilling touch.

Amidst the haze of weariness, Reid's urgent cry pierced through the air, jolting me back to the present. His voice echoed with a mix of urgency and concern, urging me to be vigilant. I turned my gaze in the direction he indicated, my eyes widening as I caught sight of an unseen adversary hurtling towards me, brandishing a lethal blade.

A flicker of resignation and self-reproach swept over me. Was this to be my final moment? Would I be remembered as the helpless princess who slumbered while her people perished within the walls of her own castle? In that fleeting moment, as despair threatened to consume me, I closed my eyes, surrendering myself to the whims of fate.

But destiny had other plans.

With a sudden jolt, an unseen force propelled me forward, hurtling me into Reid's outstretched arms.

A surge of panic coursed through me as I heard Reid's urgent cry and my mother's desperate plea. I turned my gaze towards the source of their distress and my heart constricted with anguish.

There, standing in the very spot I had occupied mere moments ago, was my father, his face etched with pain. A sword protruded from his shoulder, a cruel testament to the brutality of our adversaries. The sight of his injured form shattered the haze of uncertainty that had clouded my mind, replacing it with a singular focus: to protect and aid my beloved father.

"Papa!" I cried out, my voice laced with a mix of fear and determination. Every fiber of my being yearned to rush to his side, to alleviate his suffering and shield him from further harm. But before I could take a step, Reid swiftly guided me to the ground, his eyes transforming from their usual tranquil blue to an intense, fiery crimson.

With a ferocity and speed that defied limits, Reid charged towards the enemy, his scream reverberating through the air. He moved with an otherworldly swiftness, his every motion a testament to his supernatural abilities. The enemy left his sword stuck inside my father and quickly pulled out another sword before lunging forward in an attempt to strike Reid, their attack was met with an unparalleled display of agility and strength.

Reid, moving with a fluid grace that belied his incredible power. With a forceful strike, he retaliated, his bloody blade colliding with the enemy's sword. The impact was so powerful that the enemy's grip faltered, their sword sent flying through the air as blood spurted from their torn hand. Without granting the enemy a moment's respite, Reid swiftly followed through, his blade slicing through their waist, severing them in two.

Meanwhile, my legs betrayed me, refusing to obey my commands, so I resorted to crawling towards where my father had fallen. Panic coursed through me as I took in the sight of his profuse bleeding. With a careful precision, Reid extracted the embedded sword from my father's shoulder, eliciting a pained groan from him. My mother, her face etched with worry, channelled her healing magic towards my father's wound, yet the injury stubbornly refused to close.

The air hung heavy with frustration and worry as my mother's anguished scream pierced through the chaos. She couldn't comprehend why my father's wound persisted, the pain etched on his face as he struggled to explain.

"He struck me near the heart," my father managed to utter, his voice laced with agony. "The severity of the injury requires time for proper healing."

Helplessness engulfed me as I watched my parents' anguish, longing to do something, anything, to alleviate my father's suffering. Yet, my own well of mana had been depleted, leaving me unable to cast any healing spells. The resounding thud of arrows striking the sturdy ice shield above us served as a grim reminder of the imminent danger that surrounded us.

Reacting swiftly, Reid sprang into action, retrieving clothing from his belongings with practiced efficiency. He skilfully fashioned makeshift bandages to staunch the bleeding, his hands moving with precision despite the urgency of the situation. The sight of his resourcefulness brought a glimmer of hope amidst the bleakness of our circumstances.

As the makeshift bandages were secured, my father winced, his pain unabated. We clung to the fragile thread of optimism, hoping that the pressure applied would stem the flow of blood, granting my father the respite he so desperately needed.

“What do we do now?” A heavy silence settled upon us as my mother voiced the question that weighed upon all our minds. Anxiety and worry etched lines of concern on her face as she sought guidance from Reid, desperately searching for a solution to our dire predicament. Even in my own helplessness, I longed for a way to contribute, but my body remained immobile, seemingly disconnected from my will.

Reid's eyes reflected the weight of his contemplation, his expression torn between caution and determination. He hesitated, aware of the risks involved, yet unable to deny the urgency of our situation. The weight of his decision loomed before him as he spoke, his voice heavy with the gravity of his words.

"There's only one option left," Reid began, his voice tinged with uncertainty. His gaze shifted to my mother, her eyes burning with fierce determination. It was evident that she would do whatever it took to safeguard our family, consequences be damned.

"We can set the castle ablaze," Reid suggested, his voice laced with both trepidation and resignation. He explained further that this plan held the promise of creating a diversion, tricking our enemies into believing they had achieved victory, thereby allowing us a chance to escape. However, the cost was steep, the odds stacked against us.

Unwavering in her resolve, my mother met Reid's gaze, her determination unwavering. Without a moment's hesitation, she spoke with unwavering conviction, her words echoing through the stillness that enveloped us.

"Do it," she declared resolutely, her voice carrying a steely resolve. In that moment, there was no room for doubt or second-guessing. She was willing to face the consequences head-on, shouldering the burden for the sake of her family's safety.

In the face of my mother's unwavering determination, Reid reluctantly accepted her decision, his features marked with a mix of concern and admiration. The path before us was treacherous, with no guarantees of success.

With a determined nod, Reid carefully lifted my father onto his back, his strength evident as he shouldered the burden. Likewise, my mother swiftly took hold of me, securing me onto her back as we prepared for our daring escape. Remarkably, the ice shield that had protected us from the volley of arrows showed no signs of cracking or weakening. It had proven to be even sturdier than before, a testament to the intensity of my rage when I had conjured it.

As we made our way through the castle, my mother utilized her magic, casting flames upon anything combustible in our path. The flickering fire illuminated the dark corridors, creating an eerie dance of light and shadow. Each step was fraught with tension, the weight of our lives hanging in the balance.

Eventually, we arrived at the heart of the castle—the kitchen. Behind an unassuming bookshelf, concealed from prying eyes, lay a hidden entrance to our salvation. With practiced ease, my mother guided me towards the secret passage, and Reid deftly replaced the bookshelf to preserve our clandestine path.

The descent into the tunnel was a plunge into darkness, enveloping us in an oppressive shroud. But my mother, ever resourceful, summoned the power of light magic, illuminating our surroundings and banishing the shadows. Step by cautious step, we navigated the winding staircase, with Reid steadfastly carrying my father's weight upon his back. The air grew colder, and the echoes of our footfalls resonated through the silent abyss.

In this perilous journey, there was no room for uncertainty or hesitation. Bound by the love and determination that united us, we pressed forward, clinging to the hope that lay beyond the darkness. With each descent, we moved closer to our uncertain future, united in our resolve to protect one another and emerge from the depths of despair.