Unexpected Turn

As we continued to talk, our voices carrying on the gentle breeze, I caught a glimpse of a figure from the corner of my eyes.

It was Leon.

He stood there, observing us.

In the darkness, his eyes were hidden.

The way he lingered and observed us sent a shiver down my spine.

Suddenly, he turned and departed.

My heart raced as I stared at his departing figure.

That figure was Leon, yet he seemed like a different being.

The energy surrounding him was not the usual charming, cheerful one; it was dark.

***********

After the night at the training field, Prince Rion and I grew closer.

Despite our deepening connections, I maintained my emotional barrier, shielding myself from previous heartaches with friends.

The Prince’s frequent visits to the barracks sparked gossip among the soldiers, but I focused on my training, ignoring the rumors.

Ember, Elera, and Leon remained distant, their interactions cold.

It was a painful shift, but I concentrated on my training.

Prince Rion's company ke