𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐍𝐄
In the quiet town of Rizlotxia, Rahiena Zhequin Blexen was just a college student trying to piece together her life amid a broken family. She was the fourth of six siblings, living in a modest home that had known both love and loss. Her eldest sibling of them all, Weina Blexen, always carried a sense of responsibility, watching over the family since their parents separation. Then there was Diero-the second eldest, Rigden~the third, and Xixon~the fifth, each of whom had moved on, gotten married, and created their own lives. Only Rahiena and her younger sister, Vitrin, remained, each wrestling with their own paths. Rahiena do part time jobs after school and during week ends, for her to have money for herself and for her younger Vitrin's needs too. Their parents left them, living on their own hand to do their best for them to continue living. Vitrin was still in school, the same with her. Rahiena is passionate in writing and reading books, her favorite subject is English.
Her love for reading mysteries and exploring new ideas found an ideal retreat in her college library. This was where she would spend her break times, often jotting down stories inspired by the tales she read and the fantasies she imagined. On this particular day, Rahiena had rushed to the library, determined to complete her new story, "Luxacia Neckixi, the Queen of Alephorea Kingdom."
Time was tight—she had barely three to four hours before her next class started. Her mind raced, assembling details for her story. But as she scribbled, the world around her grew hazy, her focus slipping.
She tried to steady herself, muttering, "Damn this dizziness," clutching her head as she sank deeper into the fog clouding her senses. Then, everything went black.
ENTERED PAST WORLD.
When Rahiena opened her eyes, she was met not by the familiar sight of the library, but by panicked faces, guards in armor, and the unmistakable scent of blood in the air. She gasped, confusion swelling within her as the people around her fell to their knees, murmuring in awe. Someone in the back exclaimed, "It’s a miracle! The Queen lives!"
Rahiena glanced down at herself, noticing luxurious royal robes she’d never seen before. Her heart pounded, realization dawning on her in fragments. Her modern mind clashed with the ancient elegance surrounding her; somehow, she wasn’t herself—she was in another body, another world.
The words of the guards drifted to her: Queen Luxacia Neckixi. They believed her to be Queen Luxacia of Alephorea Kingdom, a powerful and revered ruler, one whose life had just been snuffed out by a poisoned arrow. The arrow wound throbbed as Rahiena shifted slightly, still disoriented but acutely aware that this body had been close to death.
Yet, here she was, alive, bewildered but breathing, Rahiena Zhequin Blexen from Rizlotxia, somehow inhabiting the life of a Queen who had just been assassinated.
The chamber was bustling with alarmed whispers and gasps as Rahiena struggled to get a sense of her surroundings. The royal physician, Aridoxian, a solemn yet gentle man with years of wisdom etched into his face, approached with reverence, his voice trembling. "Your Majesty, we thought we’d lost you," he murmured, examining her closely, disbelief in his eyes.
A young handmaiden, Vynlira, knelt by her side, tears in her eyes as she clutched Rahiena's hand, gazing at her with reverence and hope. The guard captain, Velrim, stood nearby, his gaze a mix of shock and guarded determination. He ordered the surrounding soldiers to stay vigilant, evidently wary of another attack.
Rahiena’s mind raced. She was no queen, no Luxacia Neckixi. But before she could question further, her vision swam with images—flashes of memories, events from Luxacia's life blending with her own. Battles, alliances, the love for her people, and the weight of the crown—all began to piece together in her mind, a puzzle of memories she hadn’t lived.
Yet something lingered beyond Luxacia’s memories—a part of her own that kept whispering, anchoring her to the truth. She was Rahiena Zhequin, a student who’d lost her way, and perhaps… perhaps she was also the lost Crown Princess of Rizlotxia, though she’d never known this part of herself.
As she looked at the faces surrounding her, she felt an unexplainable pull to fulfill this role, to carry on as Luxacia, the Queen they needed. But she also knew that the journey ahead held secrets and mysteries about her own past, her true origins, that she would uncover only in time.
As Rahiena settled into the throne of the Queen she was now believed to be, she silently vowed to herself: she would find the answers, both to who she was in this world—and to her own lost lineage in the world she had come from.
The room fell silent as Rahiena—inhabiting Queen Luxacia's body—spoke with the poise and confidence that felt both foreign and familiar. She had adjusted to her new surroundings as best as she could, determined to embrace the role and the responsibilities thrust upon her. Her long, flowing white hair cascaded down her shoulders, gleaming against the golden hue of her royal attire. Her bright green eyes, glossy lips, and poised demeanor commanded the attention and reverence of all around her, her beauty a mirror image of the late queen's.
But beneath the regal appearance, Rahiena remained herself—gentle, kind, and quietly determined. She was slowly coming to understand Luxacia’s memories, like faint whispers guiding her choices, though a part of her still clung to her identity as Rahiena Zhequin Blexen, a young woman from a simple family in Rizlotxia. This merging of lives was puzzling, yet she resolved to fulfill her new role as queen with integrity and purpose.
With a steady voice, she turned to the guard captain, Velrim Hythyn, who had stayed vigilant by her side since her "miraculous recovery." He was a trusted advisor, his loyalty to Queen Luxacia unshakable.
"Captain Velrim," Rahiena began, her tone resolute, "I need you to strengthen the Kingdom’s walls. Upgrade our defenses and be cautious of anyone attempting to enter. Whoever was responsible for the attack may try again. Our people must be protected."
Velrim nodded, his gaze fierce with determination. "As you command, Your Majesty. I will see to it personally that no one untrustworthy crosses our borders." He bowed deeply before stepping back, already forming plans in his mind to bolster the kingdom's security.
Despite the gravity of her duties, Rahiena couldn’t help but feel a sense of compassion for those around her. She had always been gentle and helpful by nature, and now she could sense how deeply Luxacia’s people relied on her strength and kindness.
☆☆☆☆☆
As the days went on, Rahiena adjusted to palace life, shouldering Luxacia's responsibilities while struggling to fit into a role she had never trained for. She listened attentively during council meetings, learning about the realm’s challenges. Her genuine interest in the people's welfare, combined with Luxacia’s wisdom echoing in her mind, allowed her to make decisions that slowly gained the trust and admiration of the kingdom.
However, Rahiena’s thoughts often drifted back to Rizlotxia and her family. Her memories of Weina, Diero, Rigden, Xixon, and her younger sister, Vitrin, stayed close to her heart. She wondered if they felt her absence, if they missed her, and if she would ever find a way to reconnect with them.
Late one evening, as she looked out from her chamber window across the kingdom of Alephorea, a quiet resolve settled over her. Her life had shifted into a reality beyond her control, but she had found a purpose here. She would protect her people, honor the memory of Queen Luxacia, and, perhaps, one day uncover the mystery of why she had been brought here—and whether it meant she was, indeed, the lost Crown Princess of Rizlotxia.
☆☆☆☆☆
The Kingdom of Jewdexi was peaceful yet shadowed by the concern surrounding its prince, Frixetro Gruix Weiquin. Since birth, his health had been delicate, a mystery to even the kingdom’s most skilled healers. His half-paralyzed body troubled not only the King and Queen, Nethro Weiquin and Haxena Fruaght, but also his twin sister, Princess Niveria Weyve Weiquin, whose bond with him was unlike any other.
Niveria, a strong and determined, had grown up under the weight of her brother's suffering. She had always watched over him, feeling helpless each time a healer tried and failed to bring any improvement. After more than a year of unsuccessful treatments, her heart ached with the knowledge that if she didn’t take matters into her own hands, her brother’s health would continue to decline. Frixetro was her twin, the one person who had always been by her side, and she could no longer bear to see him struggle.
As the princess, Niveria had been trained not only in the arts of diplomacy and governance but also in combat, tactics, and survival. Her strength was well-known among her people, her skills carefully honed in secret, away from the royal court’s eyes. Only her parents and a few trusted advisors knew how capable she was in combat. This secrecy would aid her now in her new plan.
After securing the approval of her parents, though with much reluctance, Niveria devised a plan to travel incognito, disguised as an ordinary traveler seeking wisdom from the lands beyond Jewdexi. She would leave her royal robes behind and wear the simple, unassuming clothing of a commoner. Carrying only a small pouch of coins, basic supplies, and a dagger hidden under her cloak, she ventured out into the unknown, hoping to find someone who possessed the knowledge to heal her brother.
Her journey would take her through neighboring kingdoms, forests, and mountains, places rumored to hold magic beyond what the Jewdexian healers had ever known. She had heard tales of powerful healers and enchanted elixirs from distant lands, and she hoped that one of these legends might lead her to the person who could finally cure her brother.
As she set out from Jewdexi's borders, Niveria found herself both excited and apprehensive. She knew the risks—her royal upbringing had not shielded her from the harsh realities outside the palace walls. Her travels would be filled with uncertainty and danger, but her resolve was unwavering. She would go to the ends of the earth to find a cure for Frixetro.
Unbeknownst to her, this journey would also intertwine with the fate of another soul from a distant kingdom—the recently resurrected Queen Luxacia, who now held the spirit of Rahiena Zhequin Blexen within her.
☆☆☆☆☆
On a cool morning in the training grounds, Rahiena, still adjusting to her role as Queen Luxacia, stood amidst a circle of sparring dummies and practice weapons. She had delved deep into Luxacia’s memories, uncovering the late queen’s knowledge of medicines and combat, skills Rahiena was eager to sharpen herself. Dressed in simple training attire, she practiced swift, controlled movements with a wooden staff, feeling the memories of Luxacia's combat technique come alive in her muscles.
But then, her concentration was broken by a faint sound—a child’s cry. Turning, she saw a little girl stumbling toward her, her clothes splattered with blood. The girl’s face was streaked with tears, and her small hands and knees were smeared with fresh cuts.
“Help!” the little girl cried, her voice trembling. “Please… help me…”
Rahiena’s heart tightened, and she quickly set aside the staff. She ran to the girl, crouching to her level and placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. “What happened, little one? How did you get here?”
The girl sniffed, wincing as she held out her scraped hands. “I… I was playing by the gates… and I tripped on a rock. I didn’t mean to… come in here…”
Rahiena looked around, surprised that no one had noticed her entrance. She called out to the nearest soldier in a firm but calm tone, “Fetch the first aid kit—quickly!”
One of the soldiers, Velrim Hythyn, rushed over with the kit, his brow furrowed. “Your Majesty, I… I don’t know how she got past us. The gates were secured.”
Rahiena shook her head, glancing back at the little girl. “No time for that now. This young lady needs care.”
Opening the first aid kit, she pulled out a small cloth and a bottle of antiseptic. She dabbed the cloth with the liquid and began cleaning the dirt from the girl’s knees. “This may sting a little,” she said softly, meeting the child’s gaze with a reassuring smile.
The girl whimpered but nodded, clutching her dress tightly. As Rahiena worked, the little girl stared at her, wide-eyed. “Are… are you really the queen?” she asked, her voice barely a whisper.
Rahiena chuckled, glancing at Velrim, who stood nearby, still looking troubled. “I suppose I am,” Rahiena said gently, “though sometimes I still can’t believe it myself.”
The girl’s eyes sparkled with awe. “But… queens don’t usually help with cuts.”
Rahiena wrapped a bandage around the girl’s knee, fastening it carefully. “Maybe not all queens. But I think everyone needs kindness, don’t you?”
The girl nodded, her tears drying as a small smile spread across her face. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Velrim cleared his throat. “Your Majesty, shall I escort the young lady back outside?”
Rahiena nodded. “Yes, but keep a close watch on the gates. And maybe... perhaps we can ensure this little one has a safer place to play nearby?”
Velrim saluted. “As you wish, Your Majesty. We’ll strengthen the patrols around the gates.”
Turning back to the girl, Rahiena placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. “You’ll be alright now. But remember—play somewhere safe, alright?”
The girl nodded eagerly. “I promise. Thank you, Queen Luxacia.” With one last smile, she let Velrim escort her toward the gates, her spirits visibly lifted.
As Rahiena watched them go, she felt a renewed sense of purpose. Luxacia’s skills and knowledge were within her, but it was her own heart that guided her. And as long as she wore the crown, she’d protect her people with compassion, just as she would have done for her own family back in Rizlotxia.
☆☆☆☆☆
In the dim light of the forest, Niveria moved swiftly, her senses sharp as she navigated unfamiliar territory. She was so focused on her surroundings that she didn’t notice when she crossed an unmarked border, the edge of the Alephorea Kingdom’s forbidden lands.
The forest suddenly grew still, an unsettling quiet settling over her.
A low growl broke the silence. Emerging from the shadows, a wild beast with snarling fangs and gleaming eyes lunged at her. Without hesitation, Niveria drew her blade, sidestepping the creature’s attack and striking it with swift precision. The beast fell to the ground, and Niveria, though a little breathless, emerged unscathed.
But before she could move on, a group of armored soldiers appeared, their expressions stern as they surrounded her. "Halt, outsider! You’ve crossed into forbidden territory," one of them announced, his voice firm.
Niveria said nothing and followed the soldiers because she herself knew the that she did entered a forbidden territory wrongly, she give only a slight nod, and allowed them to escort her toward the kingdom, maintaining her quiet composure. She kept her identity hidden, staying in the guise of a humble traveler, careful not to betray her true purpose or origin.
☆☆☆☆☆
In the royal courtyard of Alephorea Kingdom, Velrim approached Queen Luxacia—now inhabited by Rahiena Zhequin Blexen—with urgency. "Your Majesty," he announced with a respectful bow, "we have detained an outsider who crossed the forbidden border. She appears skilled in combat; she fought and defeated a wild beast within the boundary."
Queen Luxacia’s green eyes sparked with curiosity. "An outsider who ventured into the forbidden border and survived an encounter with a wild beast?" she repeated, a faint smile of intrigue touching her lips. "Very well. Bring her to me."
The guards soon entered the royal courtyard, escorting the stranger who had dared to step into forbidden territory. Niveria walked forward, head held high yet respectful, her face calm and unreadable. Queen Luxacia observed her carefully, noting her silent confidence and the air of mystery around her.
"And who might you be?" Luxacia asked, her voice gentle but commanding.
Niveria lowered her gaze slightly, playing her role as a mere traveler. "I am… just a wanderer, Your Majesty," she replied softly, her tone carefully measured. "I was unaware of the borders here and did not intend to trespass."
Luxacia’s gaze sharpened as she studied the young woman, sensing a strength beneath her humble demeanor. "A wanderer skilled enough to slay one of the beasts that guard our forbidden borders?" she questioned, a note of amusement in her voice. "You seem more than an ordinary traveler."
Niveria met Luxacia’s gaze, choosing her words carefully. "Sometimes, the road requires us to learn how to defend ourselves," she replied simply, keeping her tone humble.
Queen Luxacia’s curiosity grew, but she didn’t press further. Instead, she offered a thoughtful smile. "For now, we’ll respect your wish to remain anonymous," she said, her tone softening. "However, you must understand that crossing our borders without permission is a serious offense. We will provide you shelter for the night, but tomorrow, you must be ready to answer a few more questions."
Niveria nodded, silently grateful. "Thank you, Your Majesty."
As the guards led her away, Queen Luxacia sat back in her seat, her mind already spinning with questions. This stranger was no ordinary traveler—her strength, her composure, and the careful way she responded hinted at a greater story yet to be uncovered.
In the quiet shelter provided by the Alephorea guards, Niveria sat on the edge of a small cot, gathering her thoughts. She recalled what she knew of the mysterious Queen Luxacia, renowned not only for her wisdom and kindness but also for her impressive knowledge of medicine. Rumor had it the queen was skilled in treating even the rarest of ailments—a hope that Niveria clung to for her brother.
Perhaps, Niveria thought, if I present myself as a general, she might listen to my plea without suspicion. She had chosen her words carefully, rehearsing them in her mind. She would tell Queen Luxacia the story of her "friend," the young prince suffering from a rare illness, though she would withhold the fact that the prince was her twin.
As dawn broke, Niveria was escorted to the queen’s chamber. She kept her stance firm and respectful, standing tall as the doors opened before her. Queen Luxacia, draped in royal attire, sat poised on her throne, her striking green eyes watching Niveria with a curious glint.
Niveria stepped forward, bowing gracefully. "Your Majesty, I thank you for allowing me to stay the night and for granting me an audience. My name is General Niveria of the Jewdexi Kingdom," she introduced herself, omitting her true title.
Queen Luxacia’s gaze remained steady. "A general from Jewdexi," she repeated, a slight hint of amusement in her tone. "And what brings you, General Niveria, to cross into the forbidden borders of Alephorea?”
Niveria raised her head, meeting Luxacia’s eyes respectfully. "It was not my intention to trespass, Your Majesty. I am here on a journey to find a healer who can aid a close friend of mine—a young prince of my homeland."
Luxacia’s expression softened, though she retained her authority. "A prince, you say? And what sort of ailment troubles this young prince?"
Niveria took a steady breath. "His condition is rare. Since birth, half of his body has been paralyzed. His family has tried every remedy, every healer, but to no avail. This journey is my last hope." She hesitated, allowing her genuine concern to show through her words. "I have heard whispers of your skill in medicine, Your Majesty, and I believe you may be his only chance."
Queen Luxacia listened, her gaze thoughtful. "It seems you care deeply for this prince," she remarked softly. "Yet, if he is a prince, why has his kingdom not formally requested my aid?"
Niveria’s heart skipped a beat at the question, but she quickly steadied herself. "The royal family has kept his illness private, Your Majesty. They do not wish to show weakness to neighboring kingdoms," she explained. "It was a difficult decision, but I took it upon myself to seek help, even if it meant breaking protocols."
Queen Luxacia nodded slowly, a glimmer of understanding in her eyes. "It is a noble risk you've taken, General Niveria, for someone you care about so deeply. And as luck would have it, I may indeed have the knowledge to help you." She rose from her throne and stepped closer, her green eyes studying Niveria with a piercing curiosity.
"But first," Luxacia continued, "I must ask—how can I be certain that your intentions are sincere? I have encountered many who sought favors under false pretenses."
Niveria met Luxacia’s gaze without flinching. "Your Majesty, I swear on my honor as a general, my request is sincere. I am here only to seek a cure, nothing more."
The queen’s face softened, though her expression remained cautious. "Then, if I agree to aid you, I must ask that you stay here in Alephorea while I prepare the necessary medicines and consult my records. I do not often offer such remedies to outsiders, but… your resolve moves me."
Niveria bowed deeply, a surge of hope rising in her chest. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I will remain as long as needed."
Queen Luxacia offered a faint smile. "Then rest, General Niveria. You will be informed when I am ready to proceed."
As the guards led Niveria from the chamber, she allowed herself a quiet sigh of relief. Though she still carried the secret of her true identity, she felt as if she had crossed a crucial threshold. Now, she only hoped that Queen Luxacia’s skill would be enough to finally bring healing to her twin brother, Frixetro.