Eternally Yours

Elements

Torans- the element of technology. Torans have a reputation for their innovative complexity. They can craft technology from their hands, such as weapons or phones, or anything they can think of. Every Toran has unique encryptions embedded in their frontal lobes, and it acts almost like their DNA. Even on the inside, they are different. 

Torans can also craft vehicles, empower energy weapons, and evolve anything already created by a former generation. They are the only power source in a nation and without them, nothing would have electricity. 

A significant component of a Toran is electricity. It courses through their body and affects their daily lives. When Torans are furious or anxious, they generate bolts of electricity throughout their body, known as sparking. Torans also have the gift of shooting electricity and emitting light from their hands. 

Trinel- The element of time. Grants the individual the ability to control time throughout the relic and the rotations of the sun and moon. The amount of pressure inflicted on a Trinel makes it the most stressful element. There are different levels of a Trinel. Primary members can geoleap within a ten-foot radius. Elders can teleport more than the primary radius and can control all aspects of time. Elders can control the days, weeks, and hours. Without the elders, every relic would be stuck in an endless time void.  

Only the highest royals can achieve the final level, which is mastery. Masters can geo-leap objects from one location to another even if said object is not in their vicinity, and they can reverse time on any item. Just like Scora, Trinel’s need to be placed throughout the relic to ensure that time is equal throughout the kingdom. If not, the time zones will be different. 

Scora- The element of space. Scora’s maintain and create atmospheres within any relic. They ensure that nothing in the kingdom is floating. The basic level of a Scora is telekinesis. 

For more advanced members, such as elders and masters, they provide oxygen and gravitation within a kingdom. The element requires a gentle nature. Like Toran, a Scora’s emotions link with their element. If a Scora becomes aggravated, their emotions thin the air around them, and anything within a two-foot radius floats several inches above the ground. 

Noral- The element of nature. Norals are the most humble and free-spirited humans. They control everything regarding nature, such as creation, food, plants, water, fire, biomes, and anything a part of the earth. They also provide the clothing and everyday necessities for the kingdom. 

The primary powers of a Noral are growing plants. Elders can control the wind, fire, water and can heal. Masters can manipulate and create substances on the earth, such as biomes, wind, water, and fire. When a Noral becomes infuriated, their blood boils and reaches nearly 200 degrees. They are scorching at the touch, and the surrounding air becomes humid. If they are upset, their skin is cold as ice, and so is the atmosphere.

Ornelix- A derivation of all four elements and only exists within royal blood. Just like the others, there are different levels to being an Ornelix. An Ornelix can wield all the elements, granting them the most power. Queens and kings hold exponential strength and can do anything. To them, nothing is impossible.

Spira- A contorted version of a Toran- well, that’s what everyone believes. Their element is purple and shows through them. A full-blooded Spira has purple veins and is visible on their face and in their eyes. They bleed purple blood; their organs are purple, and their DNA is the most drastically changed than any other. Their powers are just like a Toran, except that when they wield their ability, it’s transferred into purple energy. 

Year 0400

Part One Eternally Yours

The Kingdom of Chilam expects so much from me—to be a perfect Princess and receive my Regalias. But that’s not me. No matter how hard I try, I can’t succumb to this perfect role, especially when I fall in love with a palace guard. Now, what will they say?

Saraphina

It’s risky to be in love with someone of great nobility, even when our love is strictly forbidden by the elders. But neither of us can help it—not when we are both so madly in love.

Elian

Prologue

It was more terrifying than I could ever fathom. A cavernous shade of purple, darker than wine, was engraved in a forbidden symbol on her back. But the regalia was beautiful. A blossomed rose was imprinted onto her skin, with thorns encompassing it, wrapping around the delicate petals with its bloodlust spikes, waiting to harm those who go near it. I couldn't help myself but reach out to touch it, but the fear of being pricked by the imprinted ink stopped me from doing so. It was captivating, like a Siren's melodic song that was luring me to my death.

It was alluring, yet deceitful.

Chapter One

ATHENA

The halls were quiet, and for once, they reminded me of my blissful childhood. Not like my life wasn’t blissful… I liked to reminisce about what was from time to time. Think about how simple life was. I wished I could say the same about now. 

Athena, good morning. How was your rest? I heard you were feeling ill. I spun around at the sound of a deep voice. My father was approaching me with arms wide open. I smiled and wrapped my arms around him. He smelled of warm vanilla, and memories from childhood filled my mind once again. I would hide in his closet and wear his clothes, hoping that his magical scent would rub off on me. His scent made me feel safe. 

I was throwing up all night. It must have been what I ate. I shook my head and held my stomach. The thought of the dish, Rigatoni with lentils, made me want to gag. I squinted my nose at the thought of it.

I recalled little from last night. It could have been the meal or the wine. All I remembered was staying up late with Anden, then throwing up at three in the morning. 

You know what? Now that you’ve mentioned it, I was feeling sick myself. My father’s voice trailed off a bit. He held a bit of sadness in his eyes, and I could tell something was bothering him. 

Father, what is it? You’ve been looking stressed lately. Is there a problem? Can I assist with anything? The last time he had that expression was when Granddad passed away a few years ago. Don’t forget that I’m nineteen and also the future queen. I can handle the affairs of the kingdom. Whatever it is, I want to help. I crossed my arms and gazed at him. If only I could help him and learn as much as possible. The crown would be mine soon and I would be queen. All I needed was more experience. 

I know, my angel, you’ve proven yourself well enough to be a strong, brave young woman and not a little girl anymore. However, right now, I want you to help prepare for your sister’s ceremony, and after that, we can discuss your next task. Your mother and I will take care of things. 

He kissed me on the forehead and continued to walk down the golden hallway towards his study. Leaving me unable to state my worth. I hated it when my parents pushed me away. They treated me like I wasn’t capable enough to do anything. 

An important summit was approaching with the ambassadors. I was willing to host meetings, but I desired more than just inside tasks. The kingdom was vast, with four sectors. It was a lot for two people. If they would just let me help… I sighed and rubbed my forehead. There was no use in overthinking it. 

Once I found a man to crown my king, I would be the one making orders. Hopefully, that day would come soon. There weren’t any suitable and single men my age. All the princes from the other relics were older, taken, or evil.

My thoughts wandered as I thought of what my life once was and, for a moment, I forgot where I was going as I continued to stroll through the palace.

I hadn’t had a proper task in months. All my parents had me do was plan events, which was the governess’ job. I pushed away the frustration. It was pointless fighting with them, especially my mother. I could never get through to her.

I continued walking down one of the many wide hallways on the second level, listening to my slippers shuffling against the tile. The light from outside reflected off the cream-colored marble and created a reflection that resembled a golden ocean. 

Fresh golden-yellow paint covered the walls and complimented the family portraits disseminated throughout the hallway. The windows held deep wine-red curtains that gave the space an opulent look. At any time of day, the palace was always breathtaking. The halls were extensive, and lots of light seeped through the windows. I felt like I was outside. I didn’t feel confined by the walls surrounding me, but quite the opposite. 

I stopped by my brother’s room at the end of the hallway. Clothes, blankets, and anything within reach were on the floor. The drawers were open, and books and miscellaneous objects littered his bed. Anden was nowhere in sight. His maids were frantically rushing around the room, trying to clean up his mess.

"Excuse me, ladies. Has anyone seen my notorious brother?" I cleared my throat and peered at the maids who were racing about. The maids stopped in unison and gave me a quick curtsy.

Y-Your M-Majesty, a maid stammered. Her hands were trembling, and her gaze didn’t leave the ground. I crossed my arms. I knew my brother was hiding something. He wouldn’t go to such lengths if he wasn’t. 

The prince ordered us not to say a thing if you asked. The second maid boldly pronounced. She puffed out her chest and clutched a pair of Anden’s socks. I could tell the nervous sweats were beading on her forehead. She would deny my authority to honor Anden. I’ve seen my parents fire maids for acts like that. But I wasn’t my parents. I stepped further into the room. The five-hundred-year-old floorboards creaked under my foot. You would think this palace would crumble because of how old it was.

He said that. Of course, he did. I didn’t have time for this. I would have left it. But there was a slight chance that my brother was doing something he shouldn’t, and the blame for my twin’s actions would fall on me. Yet again, I was picking up after my younger siblings as if I were their maid.  

Let me ask again. Where is my brother? I forced a smile. The maids looked at each other nervously, contemplating whether they should expose his secret. I had had enough of their idiocy. 

He went to your room, Your Majesty, searching for something. He seemed hostile when he couldn’t find what he was looking for here. That is why his room is a mess. The eldest maid looked apologetic. She had to manage a temperamental teenager with no sense of limits.

Inhaling deeply, I spun on my heels. I didn’t acknowledge the maids. I turned down the hall and rushed to my room. The thought of the terror Anden was reigning over my pillows scared me. 

Chapter Two

ATHENA

Inearly ran down the hallway, grasping my silk nightgown to avoid tripping. I tried to reach my room as quickly as possible without sparking concern. What would the palace think about their soon-to-be queen racing down the hall? If my mother ever discovered, she would have something to say. It was annoying having every small thing I did monitored. If I so much as sneezed the wrong way, my mother would hound me about it. 

The moment I approached my two large wooden doors on the third floor, I swung them open, only to find my brother tossing pillows around my room. He was geo-leaping throughout the room, leaving little wind turbines behind him. 

Anden! What are you doing?! My brother’s discourtesy drove me insane. He didn’t care about my space or my things. I clenched my hands into fists and tried to get a hold of him. But all I could see were streaks of my brother as he darted around. 

"Why, hello, Athena? I was too busy searching for something you took from me." His voice floated with the streaks until he stopped before me. My hair blew around me, and I faced the same green eyes I saw on myself every day. He frowned, and we both crossed our arms. 

Even though our eyes were similar, his were a deep emerald green, a little darker than mine. His golden curly hair was messy, and he had dark bags under his eyes. He looked stressed. He was possibly worrying too much about whatever he was so keen to find. Did he have to destroy my room? 

I surveyed the damage, and my heart sank. The state of it all was terrifying. My dresses littered my chambers, the lamp was on the ground, my bed was a disaster, and even dirt from my plants dotted my rug. My maids were nowhere in sight. He must have scared them. 

I looked back at him, and we had a telepathic moment, even though no one was telepathic. But with Anden, one look could tell me everything he wanted to say, and he was furious. 

You’re accusing me of taking something of yours? How dare you? I would never take your things. I leaned in closer to him and almost slapped him.

Then where is my fencing gear? I saw you admiring it yesterday, and I knew you took it. He barked and pointed an accusing finger at me. Was this what the commotion was about? His absurd gear? I started laughing.

Truly, this was ridiculous.

I pushed past him and scooped up some dresses off the floor. Again, cleaning up after my twin. Literally, this time. But I didn’t have time or the desire to argue with him. Knowing Anden, he would forget this ever happened in 24 hours. I bet my life on it. He followed me around and hovered like a tree.  

Why are you amused? I shook my head, not able to take him seriously. I walked into my closet and hung up the dresses. He leaned against the door frame. But I couldn’t help but smile again. It annoyed me that he always blamed me for his problems, but I always took pleasure in watching him struggle. 

It’s simple. Get new fencing gear. I met his gaze, and he reacted as if I told him to get a liver replacement. He shook his head. 

"I can’t just get a new one, Athena. Grandad gave that set to me. I think you’re the one who took it. You’ve always wanted his set." His tone was soft, but he was still annoyed. I rolled my eyes, thinking that we were past this. Grandad left him a nice set, but it was nothing I wanted, and he knew that. I walked back into my room and gathered the remaining dresses off the floor. 

Anden, I didn’t take your gear. One of your maids must have misplaced it. I wanted him to leave. He was getting on my nerves. Leave it to Anden to ruin my morning. I hung up the dresses, but Anden still cornered me in the closet. I crossed my arms and glared back at him. We stood eye to eye; we were both tall. 

It was you, Athena. I spoke to all the maids and staff in the palace, but no one took it. Besides, Saraphina is too preoccupied to bother with my things.

So that led you to accuse me of taking your gear? Do you understand how ridiculous that sounds? Listen to yourself, Anden. Accusing me of stealing? I laughed. He didn’t understand. When did Anden ever consider others?  

Athena, you’ve always been jealous of me. My eyes widened. I jerked my head towards him. Anden’s voice grew louder as he stepped closer. But his words were muffled by the anger now seeping through my pores. I clenched my fist tightly, feeling bolts of electricity form in my hand. I calculated exactly how hard I had to hit this man to knock him out for only a few moments. 

Oooooh, you guys are fighting again. I’m telling Mom. A soft voice came from the entrance of my room. We both turned to see our youngest sister, Nova, sticking her purple tongue out teasingly at us. 

Her bright blue eyes were peering up at us with a childish smirk. In one hand, she was holding a gigantic rainbow lollipop that our mother told her she couldn’t have. In her other hand, she was squeezing her favorite stuffed dinosaur. She was gone as fast as she came, with her long blonde curly pigtails bobbing up and down as she ran. 

See what you did? We don’t need Mother interfering — she’s already stressed enough. I threw my hands. My face was heating with elemental rage. I walked towards my bed and quickly tidied the space. She would be here, and I didn’t need to hear her complaints. 

Well… there wouldn’t be a problem if you hadn’t taken my gear! Anden yelled from behind. I turned around and jabbed my finger in his chest, poking him continuously. 

How many times do I have to explain to you, Anden? I do not have your fencing gear. You probably left it at the training arena yesterday. I grabbed a pillow and smacked it on the side of his head.

That’s it. He tackled me onto the bed, shoving a pillow onto my face. I pushed him off and threw whatever my hand could reach.

That’s enough! My mother roared. She threw her arms out, fingers outstretched and palms towards the floor. Pillows, blankets, and the remaining mess on my floor floated, reaching the level of my mother’s outstretched hands. I became weightless as I drifted away from my brother as he struggled to move. The atmosphere shifted, and the oxygen felt almost like a thin sheet. I floated aimlessly, along with my brother and the inanimate things in my room. My mother turned off the gravity. 

A Scora could only lift one or two things at a time, but as a queen, my mother was far more advanced. I was not as skilled as her with my Scora element, and it was one of my best. 

She rarely used that amount of power unless she thought it was necessary. Onlookers, or any other sector that wasn’t Noral, wouldn’t see the problem of two siblings fighting. But when a fire elemental was involved, it would always lead to much more. We strictly prohibited fighting for that reason. Norals couldn’t control themselves if they did.  

Despite the frightening expression on my mother’s face, she was still the most beautiful woman in Chilam. Her long, naturally wavy hair fell to the middle of her back, framing her exotic features. Her big, light brown eyes glanced frantically around the room, taking in the clutter. She relaxed her arms, and everything fell back onto the floor. I landed with a loud thump on the floor, and pain rippled through my body. She took a deep breath and exhaled, controlling her anger. 

I am sick and tired of you two fighting like children. Even Nova behaves better than you. You are both royals, so start acting like it. You have thirty minutes to clean up this mess and come down for breakfast. Electricity flowed through her hands as she produced sparks of energy. Do I make myself clear?

Yes, ma’am. Anden and I chimed. He rubbed his forehead after hitting it against my nightstand. We were too ashamed to look at her while she spoke. I’d never been more embarrassed in my life.

Perfect. Nova, do you have something you’d like to give to Anden? My mother called over her shoulder. Shortly after, our five-year-old sister ran in, clutching Anden’s gear. 

Here you go, Andy. I’m sorry I took it. I just wanted to play dress-up. She pleaded. Nova batted her eyes innocently at Anden. The five-year-old handed him the gear. Bits of shame flashed through his eyes. 

Do you forgive me, Andy? She asked in such a tone that melted my heart.

Of course, I do. He bent down, gave Nova a hug, and patted her head.

So he would forgive Nova in a heartbeat, but if I took his gear… I diminished that thought in a second. Who am I kidding? No one could be upset with Nova. 

Nova’s soft eyes and quiet nature made her so easy to love and forgive. No matter what she did, this family could still forgive her. I wished I had that same luck. But I couldn’t help but smile at Nova. She was the purity that we all needed. Sometimes, life between the Vidales family wasn’t all that pleasant. 

Now, if you’ll excuse us, Nova and I must wash up for breakfast. My mother grabbed Nova by the hand and left the room. The queen’s elegant blue robe shimmered as the light danced off it as she walked. I huffed and resumed my cleaning. Frankly, I didn’t expect Anden to stay. I couldn’t care less what he did as long as he left me alone. But he lingered, as Anden always did. 

Look, Athena. I’m sorry I accused you of stealing my gear. I forgot that there was one other spoiled child in the palace. His green eyes were apologetic, and one couldn’t say no to those eyes. No wonder Anden had girls lining up at his feet. I sighed and nodded. He was a pain, but he was still my twin. 

Okay, I forgive you. Now, let’s please clean this room. I do not want to see a single speck of dust. 

We cleaned silently as the time slowly passed by. Eventually, my room was back to how it was before.

I plopped down on my bed, and that victorious feeling of a clean room washed over me. I admired its cleanliness. The walls were white, with floral embroidery and gold detailing. My bed was in the center of the room, with a giant crystal chandelier hanging above it. A dresser stood on the far side of my room, with a full-body mirror beside it that I used every morning. I adored my room — it was the one place I could escape to; that was all to myself.

Breakfast was quiet, which was unusual for a family of six. My parents sat in their usual places next to each other at the head of the table. They sat on special thrones that were designed for dining needs. 

My mother and father looked nothing alike, opposites, in fact. My mother’s fair skin complemented my father’s rich, brown complexion, creating our caramel tones. 

Everyone silently ate their homemade eggplant and walnut frittata, keeping to themselves. I couldn’t stand the silence.  

So, Sara, what time is you’re fitting? My sister lit up at the mention of her name. She turned her entire body towards me. Saraphina was always extra like that. She talked with her entire being.  

Oh, it’s at noon today. Saraphina beamed. I remembered my excitement at my ceremony — I couldn’t sleep for days. 

This day has been so long. I’m bored out of my mind. Saraphina complained, and her voice rippled through the quiet dining hall. 

Be patient and stop complaining, Saraphina Grace. Eat your food before it gets cold. My mother interjected. She casually looked up from stirring her cup of tea. My mother always poked her head into everything. She had a reputation for knowing everything about everyone. 

I didn’t know how I could live up to that stature. But my mother didn’t even give me the chance to learn from her. If only I could experience her life as a queen. Then, I could be like her and learn from the prominent leaders of Chilam. I sat back and took a sip of my mimosa. The more I thought about it, the more my head ached. 

It will happen soon enough, Thena, I’m sure of it. I breathed deeply and ignored my lack of purpose.

Yes, Mother, Saraphina’s job was to act as the ideal angel. She was the one who was always preppy and excited, dreaming of her prince. But as I looked at my sister, I knew that wasn’t always the case with her. I didn’t know what Saraphina was up to these days? 

Breakfast was over, and everyone retired into one of our many family areas. It was Sunday, the only day the royal family could devote quality time to each other. The king had postponed his meetings just to spend the day with us. He looked better and more relaxed, like he didn’t have a kingdom to govern. I enjoyed seeing him like this- it made my day, and his optimism brightened everyone’s mood.  

It was game day, and we played the game we liked to call Kingdom Wars. It was a classic game in Chilam that I grew up playing. My mother was always the champion at this sort of entertainment, but recently, I had been improving. I hoped to replace my mother and become the new champion.

Basically, we would choose up to five evil or good relics, and the goal was to protect our kingdoms from the other players. If one of us won a battle against another opponent, we could take their territory, but if someone had no countries left, that person lost. It was simple enough. Even Nova could take part. But sometimes… it could be competitive. 

I walked over to the cupboard to retrieve the game, brushing off my yellow day dress. We played for hours, and my mother demolished everyone’s kingdom. I didn’t know how she did it, but she won effortlessly every time. 

We all were having a great time, enjoying each other’s company. We hadn’t done this in a while, so we made this moment count because we all knew that this day wouldn’t last forever. 

Chapter Three

ATHENA

Saraphina’s fitting was in the women’s lounge. The room was precisely what it sounded like — a room dedicated specifically for women’s purposes. This lounge was one of the largest chambers in the castle. Queen Erista, a noble ruler from centuries ago, designed it, and my mother wanted to keep most of her displays intact. It felt like a time relic. Especially when the candles were lit and soft music played. I never met my ancestor Queen Erista, but I could only imagine what it would’ve been like if she were here. She seemed like a force of nature, especially in the stories told about her.

Upon entering the lounge, a large diamond chandelier hung in the center. Below it, the room had an ample open space accompanied by an aerial rug. Gold and white covered the entire space, representing our family colors of power and purity. Scattered throughout the room were paintings and photographs of Chilam and the different sectors. 

Cream-colored chairs were arranged in a small sitting area beside massive windows. The only pop of color was the red on the throw blankets, pillows, and lampshades. Red was my mother’s favorite color. She wanted to incorporate the color with correlative accents. 

In one corner of the room was an ancient grand piano, my sister’s most treasured piece. Saraphina was skilled at every instrument, and she would often brag about how she could do that better than me. She could, but that didn’t mean I enjoyed hearing it. I wasn’t prideful or anything… but still. 

This woman’s lounge was often a haven in my childhood. I would visit and snuggle up by the fire and read. It brought me comfort during difficulties of being Crowned Princess, especially during my Regalia Ceremony. 

The queen and female rulers barred men from entering the room. It was the only place where female chatter remained a secret. I loved it. My heart was giddy just thinking about spending time in the parlor. 

I rounded a corner and headed towards the women’s lounge. A loud screech ruptured through the tranquil hall. My heart dropped, but I knew it was only my sister panicking over. 

"How many times do I have to tell you I HATE this color!" Saraphina’s voice bellowed. I poked my head in the doorway. My sister yelled at the maids, who were holding up a dress. She was right. It was a hideous shade of green. She looked furious. 

Saraphina stood on a small podium in the center of the room. Her hair was a mess; loose strands and tangled knots were all thrown into a disastrous braid. I walked in and made myself visible. 

Please, Miss. This color would look exquisite with your skin tone. One maid pleaded. The gown was seaweed green but still shimmered in the daylight. 

"Saraphina, there’s no need to yell. Calm down. They are only suggesting what they think will look best on you. Tears stained her eyes, and I was certain she argued with the maids all morning.

Your Majesty, do you like this dress? The head maid held up the dress in front of me. I tried my best to hide my dislike. It burned my eyes just looking at it. 

"Well… it is a very unique color… I lied. But I don’t think this color is appropriate for the occasion. What do