(SHEILA’S POV)As I looked into Orion's eyes, a whirlwind of emotions engulfed me. There was something profound in the way our gazes met, something that seemed to solidify the unspoken connection we shared. With each exchanged glance, it felt like the threads binding our hearts grew stronger, weaving a tapestry of emotions between us.The warmth that flooded my soul in his presence was undeniable, comforting yet unsettling all at once. Doubts clawed at the edges of my mind, casting shadows on the burgeoning affection I held for him. Was this feeling real, or just a figment of my imagination, conjured by fleeting moments of connection?"Sheila," Orion's voice broke through my thoughts, his expression a mix of concern and vulnerability. His words hung in the air, heavy with uncertainty. "A-are you sure?"As I looked at him, every contour of his face seemed to reveal a story of vulnerability, etched deeply into his features. His voice trembled, his jaw quivered, and it was as if he had l
(WILLOWHART’S POV)As I returned from my meeting with the elders and the chief of our haven, their words echoed in my mind, each one heavy with significance. The weight of responsibility pressed down on my shoulders, reminding me of the delicate balance we maintained within our community.Upon passing by my herb garden on the way home, I spotted Sheila, my diligent protege, tending to the plants with care. A gentle smile graced my lips as I approached her, finding comfort in the familiar sight of her dedication. Despite the pressing matters discussed in the meeting, here in this tranquil corner of my haven, amidst the fragrant herbs, I felt a sense of peace wash over me."It would truly sadden me to part with the garden so soon," I commented softly, my voice carrying a wistful tone as I drew nearer to Sheila. The thought of leaving this haven of serenity behind filled me with a pang of longing, a reminder of the connection I shared with each plant—my kind helpers in healing ailments.
(ORION’S POV)"Oh, I almost forgot, dear Orion!" Willowhart began, her voice filled with wonderment, drawing my attention away from the task at hand. My gaze snapped to hers, a spark of newfound hope kindling within me. "What is it, Old Lady?" I asked, curiosity evident in my voice.Willowhart chuckled softly at the nickname, then gently offered, "Maybe the healers from the royal city could assist you in reclaiming your memories."Her words hit me like a bolt of lightning, and confusion knitted my brows. "Wow, sometimes I forget I lost my memory," I admitted, feeling a pang of discomfort at the reminder. "Honestly, I wouldn't mind if it never came back, as long as I can stay by Sheila's side and keep her safe."As I spoke those words, I couldn't help but wonder about the life I had before this memory loss. But Sheila, with her warm smile and unwavering support, was my anchor in this sea of uncertainty.Noticing his reaction, Willowhart arched her eyebrows with a playful glint in her e
(SHEILA'S POV)Willowhart along with most of Silverthornians, embarked on our journey towards Luminous Edge earlier this morning, my heart weighed heavy with the knowledge that we were leaving behind the only home we had ever known. The threat of the Land Enclosure Program loomed over us like a dark cloud, driving us from our cherished haven.Now, as the sun climbed higher in the sky, I stood amidst the dwindling remnants of our once vibrant community. Silverthorn had always been small, even by the standards of the Harvestia Monarchy's villages. But its modest size was fitting for a group of exiles like us, living on the outskirts of society, away from the watchful eyes of the monarchy.As I gazed into the distance, my heart sank at the sight of the deserted streets of Silverthorn. The buildings that had once echoed with the sounds of bustling life were now eerily silent, their empty windows casting long shadows in the morning light. It was a painful reminder of the exodus that had sw
(SHEILA'S POV)As Emberlyn led me to one of our father's private estates, my mind swirled with apprehension. We were a few kilometers east of the pine woods, not too far from the former Silverthorn Haven, a place I once called home, safely distant from the borders of Harvestia's monarchy. Usually, Emberlyn’s presence was accompanied by a storm of hostility, but today, she remained eerily silent. Her uncharacteristic quietness set off alarm bells in my mind.As we walked, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of confusion. Why was Emberlyn suddenly showing concern for me? It was a stark contrast to the years of abuse I had endured at her hands. From hair pulling to leg stomps, Emberlyn had made it clear that she despised me. The only flicker of kindness I could recall was a distant memory from our childhood when she offered me a few berries while I was locked in the basement. But that was just a fleeting moment among a lifetime of torment.What puzzled me even more was the protective glare
(SHEILA'S POV)As dusk settled over the woods, I found myself amidst the gathering darkness, my steps muffled by the forest floor. With Emberlyn leading the way, accompanied by her loyal mercenaries, we pressed on in search of Orion. My heart yearned to bridge the gap between myself and my step-sister, seeking an opportunity for conversation amid the tense atmosphere. Yet, Emberlyn's demeanor atop her steed appeared forbidding, her fiery hair matching the intensity of her resolve."Keep your eyes peeled, everyone. Our mission today is to capture this man, father’s order," Emberlyn commanded, her voice cut in the dimming light.The leader of the mercenaries acknowledged her orders with a casual tone, though retaining a respectful demeanor. "Of course, princess," he replied, his confidence evident. "Tonight's the night, boys. Let's ensure we secure our prize," he rallied his comrades, their responses tinged with assurance."The just paid us so good! We won't let him slip away," they af
(SHEILA'S POV)I woke up with a sharp sting at the back of my head. I shifted onto my side, my auburn hair falling over my face as I reached up to touch the spot, fearing the worst. Thank the goddess, there was no sign of injury, but the nausea lingered. My heart raced, and I struggled to steady my breathing, teetering on the edge of consciousness once more.Then it hit me—the situation I was in. 'You won't be seeing anyone, dear sister,' Emberlyn's words echoed in my mind. 'Mother's already arranged a buyer for you, a slave trader eager to take you.'I took a deep breath, forcing myself to focus despite the panic rising within me. Slowly, I surveyed my surroundings. The room was dimly lit, shadows dancing across the walls. I was enclosed in a cage, the fabric covering most of it obscuring my view, but I could sense the presence of others nearby. They, too, were likely slaves like me."Slave market," I murmured to myself, the words tasting bitter on my tongue as my mind swirled with t
(EMBERLYN'S POV)As I stood outside my mother's chamber, the events of the day replayed in my mind like a relentless loop. It had become clear that Orion was oblivious about that incident. He stood before me many times, his resolve unyielding as ever. His fierce loyalty to Sheila perplexed and frustrated me in equal measure.Taking a deep breath, I rapped lightly on the door, hoping for some solace in my mother's presence. Vespera's warm voice greeted me from within, inviting me to enter. "Emberlyn? Come on in!" she exclaimed, her cheerful tone a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within me.As I pushed open the heavy door to my mother's private chamber, I was immediately greeted by the familiar sight of two maids fussing around her. The room was a sanctuary of peace and sophistication, a reflection of my mother's refined taste and esteemed position. Soft light filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a gentle glow over the lavish décor.Sensing my melancholy, my mother, Vesper