whispers of the moonlit vale

Chapter 1: The Prophecy’s Whisper The moon hung heavy in the sky, its silver light casting an ethereal glow upon the towering spires of Valtheria. Princess Evelyne stood at the edge of the castle’s balcony, the cool night air kissing her skin. Tonight, the stars felt different—like they were whispering secrets only she could hear. "Princess, you shouldn't be out here alone." Evelyne turned to see her lady-in-waiting, Lyria, standing at the doorway, concern in her emerald eyes. "I'm not afraid of the night, Lyria. It calls to me." Lyria sighed. "The High Oracle has requested your presence. She speaks of an urgent prophecy." Evelyne’s pulse quickened. The Oracle’s words had shaped the kingdom for centuries, and now she was speaking of Evelyne? She followed Lyria through the candlelit halls until they reached the grand chamber where the Oracle sat, her silver hair falling in waves over her violet robes. Her aged eyes gleamed with an eerie knowing. "You have felt it, child. The winds of fate are shifting." Evelyne swallowed hard. "What do you mean?" The Oracle exhaled slowly. "A darkness approaches, one that seeks to swallow Valtheria whole. But the fates have chosen a warrior—one bound by a curse, and tied to you by destiny." The chamber grew colder. "Who is he?" Before the Oracle could answer, a gust of wind blew through the room, snuffing out the candles. A deep voice echoed from the shadows. "I am the one you seek." ---