CHAPTER 1; Why must I take the responsibility?
In a hidden dimension that eludes the awareness of ordinary humanity, there exists a realm brimming with extraordinary beings, each endowed with supernatural abilities that defy the natural laws of the world. This enigmatic land, known as Thellitophia, is a majestic kingdom ruled by the most powerful vampires ever known. However, amidst their grandeur and formidable lineage, the kingdom finds itself in a state of longing and yearning. The ruling class, despite their formidable presence and unmatched prowess, faces an unsettling void—the absence of an heir to continue their legacy. Thellitophia’s ancient traditions and customs heavily depend on the continuity of bloodlines, and the desire for an heir has become a pressing concern. The kingdom's nobility, while reveling in their supernatural gifts and the splendor of their surroundings, cannot shake the weight of this unfulfilled dream, which hangs over them like a dark cloud, prompting a quest for a successor who can uphold their lineage and reign over Thellitophia with strength and dignity.
After years of anticipation and longing for a child, the moment finally arrived when a baby took her first breath and first cry. Allura Thellitophia, born as the cherished firstborn of King Alex and Queen Isabelle of Thellitophia.
The crown upon her head was not just a symbol of her royal lineage but a testament to the love and devotion showered upon her by her beloved parents and her people, celebrating her birth.
Growing up in the castle, Allura was enveloped in a world where every corner echoed with affection, admiration, and the whispers of the vampire courtiers who revered her.
From an early age, she understood the weight of her title as the heiress of the kingdom. Knowing her responsibilities, she set a formidable standard for herself, vowing to become the strongest amongst the knights who served the royal family.
By the age of three, she dove headfirst into the realm of historical literature, absorbing the intricacies of governance and the responsibilities that accompanied ruling a kingdom.
As Allura turned ten, an age where many children were engrossed in playing, she distinctly chose to embark on fencing training, driven by the desire to hone her skills for the challenges that lay ahead.
One day, the queen called out to her child with a cheerful tone, “Alli, come over! I have someone to introduce to you; he could be your friend.”
Against Allura’s will, she trudged over to where her mother stood, and an innocent boy beside her.
David Ruther, was the oldest son of Duke Arnold Ruther. As Allura approached the guests, she met David’s gaze with an icy stare, determined to convey little Allura’s disinterest.
“This is David Ruther, the son of Duke Arnold,” Queen Isabelle said, her voice soft and inviting.
“He will be your training buddy in the future; he’ll be learning with you.” The prospect of sharing Allura’s training space with another person did not sit well with her, yet as a royalty, despite the urge to curse, she felt the pressure of politeness and respond to them politely.
“It’s an honor to have you here, Duke Arnold, and it’s nice knowing that your son will accompany me,” little Allura said, bowing slightly to both David and Duke Arnold, a gesture of respect.
Alone time for studying was far more appealing for Allura than mingling with an unwanted companion.
“He will be staying at the palace with you so that you will have a playmate,” the queen added, making Allura’s eyes widen.
An internal groan echoed within the child. She wanted to shout at her mother right now, but voicing it in front of their guest seems disrespectful, so she braces herself.
She glanced at David and noticed his innocent smile. Despite his friendly demeanor, Allura remained steadfast in her belief that studying alone was far superior to having company.
Finally, Duke Arnold took his leave, entrusting his son to the Thellitophia household. Seeing Duke Arnold leave the palace, Allura saw her chance and confronted her mother, who was having a short chat with young David.
“Mom! You didn’t tell me this; I didn’t sign up for this!” Her frustration bubbled to the surface.
“Come on, Alli,” her mother replied, her tone still light and playful, “you are just ten! Why are you stressing yourself over something that doesn’t benefit you? You study too hard; you should play sometimes. That’s why I asked Duke Arnold to let his child accompany you.” Allura shook her head vehemently.
“I didn’t ask you to do this for me, mom! I already told you that I prefer to study alone!”
Little Allura’s voice wavered with a mix of anger and desperation, hoping her words would resonate. To her surprise, the queen merely smiled at her, a reaction that puzzled her. She thought that her protests would leave David feeling awkward, yet he seemed utterly unfazed by the exchange.
Years have passed.
No matter how many times Allura hurt or offended David, it seems he isn’t going anywhere. He keeps approaching her trying to make conversation, but Allura keeps ignoring him and telling him to get lost.
After years of pursuing and David didn’t stop, Allura came to the realization that maybe she should give David. She began to share laughter with David. They shared a lifetime memory, growing up together and constantly challenging each other. Whether it was a duel or a friendly debate over who’s superior in swordsmanship, horseback riding, archery, martial arts, or any other skill, our competitive spirits kept us close.
Despite the bickering and occasional clashes, over the years, Allura finally grew fond of David. Their bond deepened and became inseparable friends.
Who would have guessed that this guy could manage Allura’s fiery temper and sharp tongue?
Allura was relentless in her training regimen, pushing herself harder than anyone else, ultimately managing to defeat one of the kingdom's best knights in the kingdom—a feat that earned her a mountain of accolades.
Professor Kris declared that when Allura reaches 18, she has the potential to lead the entire army.
That praise was motivating, making Allura become ignorant and full of herself.
After our grueling practice sessions, the two of them, Allura and David often retreated to the serene lake behind the palace. Those moments were golden.
In one of their hangouts by the water, David turned to her with that familiar serious expression of his.
“Allura, Father mentioned that you’re slated to take over the kingdom in the future. Is that true?”
“Duh, isn’t it obvious? I’m the only heir to the throne. What did you expect—mom and dad picking some random civilian to rule over Thellitophia?”
“Of course not, it’s just… it’ll be tough for us to hang out later with all the responsibilities you’ll have to juggle.” Said David, with a gloomy expression.
“So what? As if a little royal duty is going to push you out of my life. Besides, my mom is planning to make you my right-hand knight!”
Even after the assurance Allura gave him, you could tell that he was a bit disappointed, but honestly, it was nothing for Allura.
As the teenagers were still enjoying the day at the lake when the bell rang—an ominous sound signaling that trouble was brewing.
Both of them rushed towards the hall where everyone was present. The queen and king, together with the ministers, were deep in discussion about the impending danger.
An impending war is coming as the Lithusia kingdom are planning to attack Thellitophia. Allura’s eyes widened as she heard this terrible news.
“I volunteer to lead the army!” She suggested.
“I know the general can handle it, but it’s crucial for me to be on the battlefield. I want everyone to see that Thellitophia isn’t going anywhere.”
“Your Highness,” the minister chimed in, “it’s incredibly dangerous to have you in the thick of battle, especially when it is Lithusia that’s attacking. You are the only heir of this kingdom; the enemy will be gunning for you. The strength of this kingdom pales in comparison to the one we faced thirty years ago.”
“I agree with the general, Alli. You’re too young to be fighting on the front lines,” the king spoke, concern etched in his face.
“Professor, you said that at eighteen I’d be ready to lead an army. Well, guess what—I’ve passed that age, and I faced the enemy 5 years ago and emerged victorious. Now that I’m twenty-three, it’s frankly insulting that you still doubt my ability to lead!”
With that, Allura stormed out of the hall, followed by David.
Lithusia kingdom has defeated more than 3 kingdoms over the past 5 years, which made them the most feared kingdom. But despite this, Allura isn’t going to let his men face danger without the support of its ruler.
At dinner, the royal family had dinner with an awkward silence filling the grand room. Seeing Allura so quiet, the kid decided to speak.
“The minister and I have come to a decision. You will lead the front line in this battle, but only if you have David at your side for protection. We can’t risk our only heir being killed. You must return without a scratch; otherwise, you won’t lead the army again in the future.”
Allura’s face lightened as she heard the news. Meanwhile, David’s expression opposes the decision that the king made.
“It’s an honor to showcase my skills against what you describe as the strongest enemy we’ve faced in years. It’s been years since my last battle, and I promise you, Father, victory will be ours!” Allura declared, her pride radiating through her words.
You could see the worry etched on the people inside the room, but Allura couldn’t care less, she couldn’t let her people fight without their future ruler at their side.
She might look like someone who doesn’t care about her people, but deep down, she is determined to protect them at all costs.
As the day of the battle arrived, Allura felt a mix of anticipation and apprehension. They are on the brink of leaving the kingdom, ready to face a new and daunting challenge that lies ahead.
On the other hand, David was expressing his concerns, trying to convince Allura to reconsider her choice. In that moment, she thought to herself, who is he to dictate my actions?
We stood together in a war zone, preparing for an imminent assault from the Lithuanians, the tension thick in the air as we readied ourselves for combat.
As the enemy's forces began to materialize in the distance, Allura took a deep breath and signaled the attack, her heart pounding with adrenaline. She positioned herself at the forefront of our army, a determined look on my face. She instructed David to rally the troops, promising him that she would take on the formidable Alexie Lithusia, the eldest princess of Lithusia, herself. The battlefield was chaotic, filled with the clamor of clashing swords and the shouts of warriors.
The moment she set her eyes on Alexie, she knew she had to be quick.
In an intense confrontation, Alexie caught her off guard and attempted to s***h her neck with her sword. In a split second, Allura activated her unique ability—an extraordinary power that allowed me to cloak myself in invisibility. This skill, a gift that no one in the land possess.
She pushed her away with a surge of strength, watching her tumble from her horse and hit the ground with a thud.
The fight escalated as the two princesses exchanged blows, a fierce dance of steel between the two. In the midst of dodging Alexie’s strikes, Allura managed to send her sword flying out of her grasp.
Seizing the opportunity, she teleported to her blind spot, catching her off guard. With a swift and decisive move, she then broke her neck, a finality that echoed in the midst of the raging battle. To emphasize her victory, she beheaded her and raised her severed head high into the air, a powerful symbol of triumph. Despite the fierce rivalry, she couldn't help but acknowledge her skill—she had been a worthy opponent.
The moment the enemy forces beheld their leader’s lifeless head, a wave of despair washed over them. They dropped their weapons and surrendered without a fight, the resolve draining from their ranks. It was a surreal moment, but her focus quickly shifted to the ground where she spotted David, lying weak and severely injured, a sight that sent a pang of concern through her.
“David, how did you end up lying there? That’s not your bed,” she quipped, sarcasm dripping from her words, and a chuckle escaped her lips. Despite his labored breathing, he managed to laugh along with her, finding humor even in his pain.
Without thinking twice, Allura rushed to assist him, helping him stand to his feet.
After days of arduous travel and battles, the army, together with Allura and David, finally reached the palace.
The servants sprang into action, hurriedly helping the wounded David towards his chamber, while Allura strode confidently into the hall, a sense of accomplishment swelling within her.
Upon entering, the sight of the king and queen along with the minister, all gathered in celebration of the victory.
The hall was alive with praise, drinking and dancing. Allura basked in the admiration of those around her. Their words of commendation echoed in her ears, filling her with a sense of pride and fulfillment that resonated deeply. It had been a tough journey, but they had emerged victorious, and the kingdom was safe once again.
Worried, she hurriedly went to David’s chamber, checking if he is healing fast. To her surprise, the sword that penetrated to David’s stomach was silver.
It will take a long time for David to fully heal, even though vampires' healing ability is fast, but when they’re stabbed with silver, it’ll take a long time to heal.
Months passed, and after countless trials and tribulations, Allura and David finally earned the prestigious title of the youngest vampire to lead the knights and bring victory to the kingdom.
It had been a long and arduous journey that stretched across years, and never in Allura’s wildest dreams did she imagine that she had to endure so much before settling into a position of significant power like sitting on a throne.
The weight of leadership was heavy, but it was a reward for all the sacrifices and battles fought along the way.
As she reveled in her newfound responsibilities, she was interrupted by the familiar figure of David approaching her. “Congrats, Alli! Sorry it took me so long to heal, so I couldn’t congratulate you earlier,” said David, his voice full of genuine warmth as he walked toward her, a smile spreading across his face.
Allura returned his enthusiasm, grinning back at him. “Congrats, David!”
“Congrats for what?” he asked, his brow raised in confusion.
“For healing, of course! You’ve spent so much time practicing death over the past few days; it’s no fun at all!” Allura laughed, teasing him as she often did when they were together.
David rolled his eyes, pretending to be annoyed. “Quit the joke. Have you heard?”
“About what? I never thought that you’d turn into a living owl!” Allura shot back, still chuckling.
“I just have a knack for news, you know? So, here’s the scoop: the kingdom is planning to expand its territory. And since you’ve successfully defeated Lithusia, their kingdom has now become ours. The minister has decided that it’s time to take over the human world, and guess who’s the lucky one getting this mission?”
“Will you die if you continue your words without taking a breath?” She interrupted, half-amused, half-concerned.
“They’ve tasked you and me to investigate the human world. They’re already preparing everything for our departure.”
“What?! That is absolutely ridiculous! What do you expect me to do in that world? I have responsibilities here, David!”
Her mind raced with the implications of the news. How could they expect her to leave Thellitophia? The kingdom she has to protect. She wasn’t ready to abandon my people.
Overwhelmed by what she’d just learned, she rushed to the hall to confront the minister and her parents about this outrageous plan. “Are you being serious? How can I go there and leave my people behind?” She demanded; her voice edged with disbelief.
“Darling,” her mother said, her tone soothing yet firm, “the people have us here. We haven’t officially passed the crown to you yet. This is your final task before you take the throne.”
Wait, what? If that was the case, it seemed like there was no escaping this. She could already feel the sense of adventure bubbling up inside her. Seeing this opportunity, she agreed to the mission so that she can prove to everyone in the kingdom that she is ready to rule.
“Fine. We will leave before dawn,” Determination settled in. She knew she had to do this, for the kingdom, for her future, and maybe even for her own understanding of what lay beyond the familiar borders of Thellitophia.