Nightfall brought soothing tranquility that softened all sounds. The only sound audible was the murmur of the winter breeze. All the castle corridors were dimly lit, and the gates remained shut. Moments later, the illumination abruptly returned. Seconds later, the front gate opened too.
"Allison, my dear, please come here! I have an important matter to share with you. Also, make sure you're dressed nicely." "Yes, Father. Allow me a moment to prepare," I replied, my voice a little stifled as I quickly changed from my nightgown to the most luxurious attire. Father doesn't usually summon me this late at night, especially not when I need to be dressed like this.
Minutes later, my maid's gentle knock echoed throughout my chamber. "Princess Allison, would you like me to escort you to the throne room?" Helen, my maid, inquired softly. "That would be lovely, Helen," I responded, grateful for her constant thoughtfulness, and together we walked through the relit corridors toward the castle's heart.
Once escorted to the throne room, I saw my father smiling mirthlessly with another king and prince from a neighboring kingdom. For reasons unknown, a shiver traced its way down my spine at their presence–perhaps it was the late hour or simply the unsettling, strong gaze of both the king and the prince, which made me feel quite uncomfortable.
"Allison, my dear, would you be so kind as to make your presence known?"
I stepped forward, performing a deep, respectful curtsy. "Greetings, I am Princess Allison, daughter of King Julian of the Kingdom of Valtheris. It is an honor to make your acquaintance, Your Majesty and Your Highness."
My father then stood up from his throne. "Allison, my dear, allow me to present King Malakor of Nytheris and his son, Prince Haeron." I curtsied once more, slightly deeper for the king. "It is an honor to meet you, King Malakor, finally, and you as well, Prince Haeron," I said as I started to walk over to my father's side.
"Dear, you can drop the formalities, after all, you and my son are bound to get married."