I woke up early today. It was understandable. It was my16th birthday and I was excited about it, to say the least. As I took a final look at my dull room that I always cooped in, the door flung open.
"Young master, wake up. It is your birthday. You can't spend it sleepi-"
"Hey, surprise, I woke up earlier", stating the fact I smiled at the maid, who got surprised. Just as she was about to tear up, she composed herself to smile back at me. She is the only one who would acknowledge the existence of me in this palace. She has been my caretaker throughout my lifetime.
Quickly getting ready to go out for a stroll in the Royal Garden was the real reason I was excited today. I had heard how beautiful and well-maintained the Royal Garden from my maid. To even get to see it once, I used the one and only wish provided by my Father, His Majesty. As I was about to leave the manor I was confined at all times to move to the Main Palace, it started raining. Heavily.
Before Eleanor could see my face, I composed myself and shrugged smiling at my bad luck. All she could do was stifle the tears falling from her eyes. I sat down for some tea, it wasn't like this was anything new for me. It was something that I was destined for. It would be a lie if I said I wasn't a bit sad but if this was in exchange for the happiness of my family and the kingdom's people, I was more than glad to do it.
As noon approached and the clouds had given way for sunlight, I was summoned to the Court. After few royal customs, I was led to the dungeon that housed our Guardian. After walking for a few minutes through the chilly path, I reached to the inner lair where the Guardian was. Just as I entered the place, all I could think and feel was fear.