Long ago, in the ancient realm of Valtoria, four great kingdoms ruled the lands—each with its own power, pride, and secrets.
At the top stood Tenebria, the Vampire Kingdom, where cold elegance met dark supremacy. Led by the last generation of second-blooded pure vampires, Tenebria's wealth, strength, and massive army made it the most feared and respected kingdom. Even a whisper of their war banners sent shivers through lesser lands.
Next came Kyrogha, the human kingdom known for its military precision, weapon craftsmanship, and iron-willed warriors. Fierce and unyielding, Kyrogha thrived on discipline and martial dominance.
Third was Aethoria, once a sacred land of the fey. Now, its bloodlines are mixed—humans and hidden half-vampires walk its halls, though whispers say the fey still live in secret, masked by fear and legacy.
Last stood Elyria, the smallest of the four, once ruled by witches. Centuries ago, its covens were purged in a brutal war. Now, mermaids disguised as humans and a few surviving witches live among Elyria's people, hiding from a world that believes them extinct.
And yet, some magic refuses to die.
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The Kingdom of Elyria – Royal Court
The golden court doors opened with a groan as the royal envoy stepped forward, bowing low before King Baltimore.
"Your Majesty," the envoy said, unrolling a parchment sealed in crimson wax. "A message from the Kingdom of Tenebria."
The court fell silent.
"Speak," the king commanded, his voice echoing off marble pillars.
"The King of Tenebria declares intent to wage war against Elyria."
A ripple of shock swept through the royal advisors. Murmurs rose like storm winds. The constable stood, face pale.
"This is madness," he protested. "Tenebria has not so much as lifted a blade against us for over a century. What could we have done to provoke this?"
The chancellor chimed in, disbelief etched into his features. "We've honored every treaty. Maintained our trade routes. There's no justification for war."
The king raised a hand, silencing them. His sharp gaze scanned the room, then returned to the envoy. "Did they give a reason?"
"No, Your Majesty. Only a demand to prepare our defenses—or surrender."
Baltimore's jaw tensed. "If this is not vengeance, then it's a demand. Tenebria wants something. And if they didn't ask for it outright... they plan to take it by force."
"But what could we possibly have that they don't?" the military chief questioned. "They have the strongest army, richest lands, and the blood of ancient vampires. We can't match them in numbers or strength."
"Exactly," the king replied grimly. "Which is why we won't fight—yet. There may still be room to negotiate."
He turned to two men standing in the shadows—Herald Darion, the kingdom's chief messenger, and General Maxwell, his most trusted warrior.
"You will travel to Tenebria," the king commanded. "Find out what they truly want. If a bargain can be made to protect Elyria, then I will make it."
The two bowed low.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
---
Later That Evening – In the Royal Garden
"Father!" a voice called out brightly.
King Baltimore turned to see his youngest daughter, Princess Eira, striding across the flower-laced stone path. Her long black hair shimmered in the moonlight, her presence as fierce and untamed as the sword she often practiced with.
"My princess," the king smiled, opening his arms. Eira walked into his embrace, resting her head against his chest.
"I heard rumors," she said, looking up. "Is it true? War with Tenebria?"
The king sighed. "Not yet. I've sent a delegation to find out what they want."
"Too bad," she said playfully. "I was hoping for a chance to spar on the battlefield."
"Eira," he said, lifting an eyebrow.
"Kidding!" she grinned. "But if it does come to war, I'm ready."
He chuckled despite himself. "ruffling her hair, looking quite bold. You remind me of your mother."
She smiled softly. "when last did they both send you a later?"
"king Baltimore sighed. Looking perplexed-- been ages, and even when I send she doesn't read them-- she has forgotten about me and is now enjoying her time traveling,The king said sulking ."
"I'm also your daughter," she added with a smirk. "jelous at how her father was acting childish over his wives being away– what about her. " Eria thought with a dissatisfied snort."
"seeing this king Baltimore felt like he had shot himself in the foot, leaving him troubled because of his daughter fiery temper when it's came to her and his wives always arguing on whom he loved more," with a helpless sigh, the king pulled her close offering words to her, filling her ears with sweet nothings.
"by now Eira already had a face glowing like the shade of a ripe tomatoes". Feeling helpless she snuggle into his embrace feeling the protection and comfort it's gave off as a father – at that moment all Eira felt was a sense of calm wishing it's never ends".
"But indeed just like the saying good things never last forever, if she had knew that this could be the last time she truly feel at peace and with her father. She would never want an end to this moment".
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Seven Days Later – The Royal Court Reconvenes
The royal court was tense as Herald Darion returned, dust on his cloak and exhaustion in his eyes.
"Well?" the king asked.
Darion stepped forward and unfolded the response.
"The King of Tenebria offers a truce—but at a cost. They demand the hand of Princess Eira in marriage to their crown prince."
The words dropped like thunder.
A wave of murmurs surged across the hall. Some advisors whispered in excitement. Others frowned in concern.
"Their reasoning?" the king asked, voice hard.
"They claim it is a gesture of alliance... but also a message. They seek something precious, and they believe nothing is more precious to you than her."
"And if we refuse?" Baltimore pressed.
"War. In three days, they expect our answer."
---
Thus began the bargain with Tenebria—one that would change the fate of the realm.
And the destiny of Princess Eira.