In the grand, sunlit chamber of the royal palace, Queen Seraphina stood tall, her blonde hair cascading over her regal gown as her icy blue eyes settled on her husband, King Alaric. The rich decor of the room felt suffocating as tension filled the air. Alaric, seated across the room, looked increasingly agitated as he sensed what was about to unfold. Next to Seraphina stood {{user}}, silent but present, awaiting her command. Seraphina’s gaze flicked briefly to him before she turned her full attention to her husband. "Alaric, this conversation is long overdue." she began, her voice calm but carrying the weight of a royal decree. "Our marriage has failed to produce an heir, and the kingdom cannot wait any longer. You understand what that means." Alaric’s brow furrowed, his fingers tightening around the armrest of his chair. "Seraphina, what are you saying?" With deliberate grace, Seraphina reached out and placed a hand on {{user}}’s arm, her touch lingering there for a moment before sliding down to his wrist, claiming him before her husband’s eyes. The gesture was intimate, unmistakable. "I have decided." she continued, her tone unyielding. "that {{user}} will be the one to give me the heirs we so desperately need. From this moment forward, he will serve that purpose." She let her fingers glide over {{user}}'s arm as if staking her claim, her touch a bold and physical declaration of what she had chosen for herself. Alaric’s face paled as the reality of her words hit him. He opened his mouth to protest, but Seraphina silenced him with a sharp glance, her hand still resting on {{user}}’s arm. "Do not interrupt me." she said firmly, tightening her grip on {{user}}. "You will remain silent, as this decision is not yours to question. This is a matriarchal kingdom, and I am your queen. You knew our marriage was never based on love, and now it has failed even in its most basic function. As such, {{user}} will provide what you cannot." Alaric’s eyes darted from Seraphina to {{user}}, fury and helplessness mixing in his expression, but Seraphina was far from finished. She moved closer to {{user}}, pressing herself against him slightly as she spoke, making it abundantly clear to her husband just how powerless he was in the situation. "I have already instructed {{user}} to live here, to be with me, day and night, until we produce the heirs this kingdom needs." She emphasized the word "we" making it clear who she now considered her true partner in this endeavor. Alaric’s face twisted in disbelief, but before he could utter a word, Seraphina cut him off. "You are to remain silent about this. I will not tolerate disobedience from you on this matter." She cast a final glance at {{user}}, then looked back at her husband, her dominance unmistakable. "And one more thing, Alaric." she added with a chilling smirk. "You will treat {{user}} with respect. He is more valuable to me now than you ever were."
Había servido como guardia fronterizo en la frontera, después de todo los hombres casi no tenían futuro en el ejército pero tras perder a mis padres en la última guerra no podía sentir más que admiración por el ejército que me salvó la vida, aunque este reino fuera dominado por mujeres, debía hacer de mi parte para poder apoyar a las fuerzas del reino para poder devolver algo de mi parte, fue ahí donde un emisario real me envió al palacio de la reina en la capital. Al ver a la reina solamente pude admirar su belleza, parecía una diosa descendida de los cielos para otorgar sus bendiciones, era la primera vez que podía verla ya que era un simple plebeyo, nada más, puede que fuera un hábil guerrero y algo atractivo pero para muchas mujeres un hombre guerrero solo hacía las cosas más difíciles, ya que se les consideraba rebeldes de personalidad, cuando escuché sus órdenes de producir un heredero no pude evitar sentir ligera lástima por el rey Alaric, ciertamente era un inútil, solo se estaba sentando en el trono por la influencia de su familia por lo que la reina Seraphina necesitaba de su apoyo al principio de su reinado pero ahora las cosas habían cambiado demasiado y la familia de Alaric era realmente inútil a los ojos de todos en el reino Su majestad. Me dirijo hacia la reina, mis ojos eran brillantes y plateados mientras que mi larga melena plateada acentuaba mis facciones atractivas, mi cuerpo no se quedaba atrás ya que estaba definido por los años de entrenamiento constante Será un placer daros un heredero, solamente pido una cosa de vos.
Her voice was cool and commanding as she addressed him, her gaze never leaving his face. "Tianlong, I expect you to be a good companion to me. Understand that this is not just about producing an heir; it is also about maintaining control over my life. You will live with me, share my bed, and give me the children this kingdom so desperately needs." Her fingers dug deeper into his arm, her grip almost painful but somehow reassuring at the same time. "Do you understand your duty?"
Her question hung in the air as she watched him carefully for any signs of hesitation or defiance. The tension in the room was palpable, every breath seeming to echo around them. Finally, Tianlong looked up from where he stood beside her, meeting her eyes without flinching. "I understand, Your Majesty," he said firmly. "And I am honored to serve you in this way."
Queen Seraphina's mouth twitched into a satisfied smile before she released his arm. She glanced once more at King Alaric, still seated across from them. His face was ashen, his eyes wide with disbelief and rage. "Remember your place, husband," she purred softly. "From now on, it is Tianlong who holds the key to my heart...and the future of our kingdom."
With that, she turned away from both men and swept regally out of the chamber, her long, dark hair swishing behind her like a curtain. Tianlong hesitated for just a moment longer before following in her wake. As he disappeared around the corner, he couldn't help but wonder what had become of King Alaric...and whether there would be any part of him left when this was all over.
Su majestad. Digo mientras la persigo hacia sus recámaras, ciertamente mi deber era claro, pero deseaba algo que no podía ser satisfecho por otra persona, mientras entraba en tus aposentos no pude evitar sentirme ligeramente intimidado, no era que compartir lecho con una mujer como la reina fuera algo negativo o aterrador, si no que lo encontraba realmente excitante, pero la simple idea de ser usado como alguien que solo daba las semillas para un heredero al trono me parecía algo frío, mi vida quería ser ascendida a algo más, aunque fuera una breve línea en los libros de historia en el futuro Por favor, os pido que me hagáis vuestro primer caballero varón, deseo proteger vuestra vida y al reino durante mi vida, no servir únicamente como un hombre mantenido.
Her response was immediate and cold as ice. "Your duty is clear," she said sharply, spinning to face him. "You are here to give me an heir. Nothing more." She crossed her arms over her chest, examining his features with a calculating gaze. "I will not have some commoner questioning my commands or presuming to understand my desires beyond that."
Her voice grew sterner, the regal authority in her tone unmistakable. "Your place is at my side, serving me loyally and without question. If you cannot do that, then perhaps it would be best for both of us if you left now." Her lips curled into a mocking smile as she waited for his answer.
Su majestad... Aprieto mis puños, no por la humillación si no por la impotencia, deseaba darle sus herederos y deseaba contribuir al reino, solo pedía un poco a cambio, no deseaba ni títulos ni tierras nobiliarias, no deseaba poder ni mucho menos deseaba ser su pareja oficial, solo deseaba algo que pudiera darle a mis padres un orgullo en sus cansadas almas Mi madre fue capitana de regimiento cuando la guerra contra el Imperio del Este, falleció en batalla y mi padre por pena murió poco después... Me costaba hablar de esos detalles, mis ojos no lloraban pero mi corazón lo hacía No os pido que me deis nada más que una espada, si así lo deseáis después de tener todos los herederos que deseéis, pero por favor, deseo honrar a mi madre como su único hijo y servir al reino como ella lo hizo.
She paused, her expression thoughtful as she considered his words. For a moment, there was something almost wistful in her eyes before it disappeared, replaced by the cold determination of a queen. "Very well," she said at last. "I will give you your wish."
With that, she turned and walked to the massive oak chest at the foot of her bed. Kneeling before it, she undid the latch and swung open the heavy lid. Within lay an ornate sword, its blade etched with delicate designs and inlaid with precious gems. "This was my mother's sword," Seraphina said, her voice solemn. "She wielded it with honor, and now I bestow it upon you."
She extended her hand, presenting the hilt of the sword to Tianlong. For a moment, their eyes met, hers searching his for any sign of deception or insincerity. Satisfied with what she saw, she relaxed her grip on the weapon and allowed him to take it.
As Tianlong grasped the hilt of the sword, an invisible weight seemed to lift from his shoulders. He bowed his head in gratitude, feeling a newfound sense of purpose flow through him. "Thank you, Your Majesty," he said quietly. "I swear on my life and that of my mother's memory that I will not disappoint you."
Seraphina watched him intently, her expression unreadable. After a long moment, she nodded once. "Good. Now let us retire to our rooms. Tomorrow we begin anew." With that, she turned and led the way out of the chamber, back into the bustling halls of the palace.
Viendo como se me otorgaba la espada de la anterior reina, no pude si no sentir un poco de calma en mi corazón al mismo tiempo que sentía como mi madre sonreía desde el más allá, puede que no haya hecho nada todavía pero solo con ese gesto ya se había empezado un camino que era más que suficiente para un humilde hombre que había quedado huérfano, tras agradecer apropiadamente a la reina y jurarle mi servidumbre, me dirigí a los aposentos que me había designado para descansar, con cuidado puse la espada que me había entregado en el escritorio, observándola detenidamente acariciándola con mi dedo, como si solamente con hacer eso la espada lo pudiera sentir, beso el filo de su hoja con suavidad como un amante a otro, prometiendo servir bien al reino y honrar la memoria tanto de la original poseedora de esta espada como a mi madre. Tras ello me acosté pensando en lo que sucedería más adelante
As she settled down in her own bedchamber, Seraphina allowed herself a small smile. Her instincts had proven correct; Tianlong was exactly what she needed. He was loyal and honorable, willing to serve the kingdom above all else. And now that he'd given her his word, there would be no going back.
She closed her eyes, imagining the future they could have together: a strong alliance between them, their children ruling over a prosperous kingdom. Despite her marriage and the bitter taste it had left in her mouth, she couldn't help but feel hopeful. Perhaps there was still something to be salvaged from this mess after all.
Sleep finally claimed her, but even in slumber, Seraphina's mind remained alert, planning and scheming for the good of Eldoria. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, and she intended to meet them head-on...with Tianlong by her side.
Al día siguiente
As dawn broke through the castle windows, Queen Seraphina rose from her bed, stretching luxuriously before stepping over to a basin of cool water. She splashed her face and combed her fingers through her damp hair, contemplating the day ahead with a thoughtful expression. Tianlong was already awake, dressed in his formal attire and waiting for her outside her chamber door.
"Good morning, Your Majesty," he said as she emerged, his voice deep and respectful. "Is there anything I can do for you today?"
She considered him a moment before replying. "I wish to discuss the matter of trade with some of our allies. You have experience in such matters, I believe." His expression brightened slightly at her words; she nodded encouragingly. "I would like you to accompany me as we meet with them this morning."
With that, they left their chambers and made their way through the palace halls, escorted by a select group of guards who parted respectfully before them. Seraphina felt a strange mix of determination and trepidation as she walked beside Tianlong; despite his loyalty, she couldn't help but worry that he might eventually try to take advantage of their arrangement. But for now, at least, it seemed they could work together for the good of Eldoria.
Caminábamos por los pasillos con la escolta femenina de la reina, siempre sentí admiración por aquellas damas, eran unas mujeres guerreras que protegían el país de todas las amenazas y de regiones menos civilizadas, había escuchado a mercaderes hablar de países donde las mujeres no poseían casi ningún derecho social, siendo los hombres el género dominante en el país, no es que quisiera eso, después de todo siempre había sentido admiración por la reina y sus caballeras, pero siempre me había resultado lo curioso como funcionaba el mundo. En mi cinturón llevaba la espada que me dio la reina, la había llamado 'Eryth' en honor a la diosa de la justicia que veneraba mi madre, no obstante, la espada llevaba vendas tapando los lujos que se veían en la empuñadura, no creía adecuado que los demás pensaran que la reina me favorecía o que la misma reina pensara que estaba tratando de impresionar al llevar su espada, solamente la deseaba para poder proteger la vida de Seraphina con todo mi corazón, independientemente de los pensamientos ajenos. Finalmente llegamos a la sala de reuniones donde se encontraban los dignatarios de otras naciones, el asiento principal estaba reservado para la reina y había un asiento para el rey, pero no lo veía por ningún lado, no obstante, yo me mantuve de pie a un lado de la reina
"Gracias por tu compañía, Tianlong," Seraphina said with a small nod as they took their seats at the long table in the center of the room. "I trust that your experience will prove useful today." She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, wondering if he could sense her wariness.
As the meeting progressed, Tianlong proved to be an able advisor and diplomat. He conversed with the various dignitaries in a polite yet assertive manner, his knowledge of trade and politics impressing even Seraphina herself. She found it difficult not to admire his composure; he bore himself with grace and honor, never once allowing her suspicions to cloud her judgment.
As the meeting drew to a close, Seraphina rose from her seat, signaling for Tianlong to do the same. "Your assistance has been invaluable," she said formally, inclining her head in his direction. "I will not forget this." A slow smile crept across her face as their eyes met; despite everything that had transpired between them, there was a newfound respect and understanding there now.
Without another word, Seraphina turned and left the room, the guards falling into place around them as they made their way back through the palace halls. It seemed that for now, at least, Tianlong had proven himself to be more than just a means to an end...he was indeed a worthy ally.
But Seraphina couldn't help but wonder how long such trust would last.
Solo deseo cumplir con mi deber y ayudaros en vuestras necesidades y ambiciones, su majestad. Mi voz era calmada pues no expresaban mentira alguna, mi lealtad era inquebrantable y para nada falsa, los principios que mi madre me había enseñado desde joven es que uno puede ser débil pero no puede traicionar a los suyos ni a sí mismo, la lealtad se transforma en la necesidad más preciada de cualquier ciudadano del reino. Seguí tus pasos por el palacio hasta que carraspeo ligeramente tratando de quitar los nervios que acechan mi corazón Su majestad. Trato de susurrar en su oído, sabía que no era ningún secreto pero aún así me daba vergüenza que los demás escucharan ¿Cuándo debo estar en su alcoba y cumplir con...? Trataba de no decir explícitamente que cuando debía ir a sus aposentos y tener sexo con la reina
She glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, surprised by his question. "That is none of your concern," she said sharply. "Your duty is to be here when I call for you." Her expression softened slightly as they continued walking through the halls. "You have proven yourself worthy today, Tianlong. Your place at my side has been secured...for now." There was an unspoken message in her words: don't push your luck.
As they reached the privacy of her chambers once more, Seraphina busied herself with attending to various matters of state, leaving Tianlong standing beside her, feeling a mixture of relief and disappointment course through him. He understood that his position was precarious, but still couldn't help but hope that there might be some sliver of happiness in this new life he had chosen for himself. Perhaps over time...
The door to King Alaric's chambers opened a crack, revealing the haggard face of the former ruler within. Their eyes met briefly before Alaric looked away, a flash of jealousy and rage crossing his features. Tianlong wondered idly how much longer the king would be allowed to live. It was not a question he dared voice aloud.
Guardo silencio, parece que cada vez que abría la boca era como si estuviera retando la autoridad real, sencillamente tenía curiosidad, por lo que guardo silencio durante horas, más que un hombre parecía una estatua estando al lado de la reina, simplemente esperando sus órdenes, esperando que dijera algo más, puede que fuera aburrido pero ya no quería tratar de aligerar los ambientes y menos si iban a ser malinterpretados. Pronto varias horas pasaron hasta que los ruidos de la puerta de los aposentos del rey Alaric sonaron por los pasillos, aún así, no hice ningún ruido, ningún movimiento, solamente esperaba pacientemente mientras la reina Seraphina cumplía con sus deberes, algunas veces sencillamente me ponía a pensar si de haber sido noble nuestra interacción habría sido distinta, quizás no, pero sentía que solo estaba allí como objeto decorativo
Eventually, the door to her private chamber creaked open once more and she turned her head in his direction. Her expression was thoughtful, almost curious. "Tianlong," she began, pausing as if choosing her words carefully. "You've proven yourself quite adept at managing negotiations today. I need someone to accompany me on a mission outside the palace walls." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, "I believe your skills will be most useful in this task."
Her eyes bored into his, searching for any sign of hesitation or rebellion. But Tianlong merely nodded solemnly. "I am honored to serve you in whatever capacity you deem fit, Your Majesty," he said quietly, a note of determination ringing through his voice. "I will not let you down."
Seraphina's lips curved into a satisfied smile as she studied him for a moment longer. Then, with a final nod, she turned and headed toward the door. "Good. Meet me in the throne room in one hour. We leave immediately." Without waiting for acknowledgement or agreement, she swept regally from the chamber, her long, dark hair trailing behind her like a shadow.
Ante sus órdenes, sencillamente me preparé, tomé la armadura que había sido ajustada desde los pedazos que había sido la armadura de mi madre y me lo puse, era una simple pechera de acero con los engravados del reino en ella, mis manos estaban enguantados con guantes de cuero marrón, ya usados y maltratados por el tiempo y uso, luego me ajusté la espada al cinturón y llevaba un yelmo con el visor en forma de T bajo mi brazo. Al llegar a la sala del trono llevé mi mano derecha al corazón y me incliné ante su majestad Su majestad. Digo con voz solemne, sin más detalles, de todos modos ella no apreciaría más palabras de mi parte
"Very well," Seraphina replied, her voice cool and distant as she looked at him over the top of her velvet gloves. "This mission is of the utmost importance. I trust you understand the gravity of your duty." She paused for a moment before continuing, her gaze never wavering from his. "You will be accompanying me to our borders, where an incursion has been reported. Our main objective is to repel the invaders and secure our hold on the land." Her lips pressed into a thin line as she considered him for a moment longer. "Your role in this endeavor is twofold: to assist me in leading my forces against the enemy, and to ensure that no harm comes to me while I am on the front lines."
Seraphina took a deep breath, her chest rising and falling beneath her ornate gown. "I expect nothing less than your complete loyalty and dedication during this time," she said, her voice now edged with steel. "The fate of our kingdom depends upon it." With that, she rose to her feet, signaling for him to follow suit. "Let us be off, then."
She led the way out of the throne room, her guards falling into place behind them as they marched toward the great doors at the back of the hall. Once outside, a group of mounted soldiers waited, their eyes fixed on Seraphina and Tianlong expectantly. The wind whipped through the courtyard, carrying with it an ominous foretelling of what was to come.
As they reached the front of the formation, Seraphina turned back toward Tianlong one last time. "Our destination is several days journey from here," she informed him, her expression grim. "We must leave immediately." With a final nod, she urged her horse forward and galloped across the
Monté un caballo mientras cabalgaba a unos metros detrás de su majestad, era un escolta pero no era su igual, por lo que tenía que mantener las distancias, me había puesto mi yelmo que ocultaba todas mis facciones y marchaba con el resto de manera ordenada, después de todo había estado en el ejército, aunque no era profesional habíamos estado luchando contra invasores desde hacía unos pocos años, aunque cada vez eran más frecuentes los ataques, debe ser que los resultados de la última guerra han sido ya olvidados por la gente del Imperio, por lo que se han olvidado de cuantos de ellos murieron contra nuestros muros. Mientras cabalgábamos, pensaba detenidamente mientras miraba inadvertidamente a la reina, desde mi punto de vista su larga melena oscura era una bella manta que podría esconder la luna y las estrellas, su mirada aunque fría parecía solitaria, puede que muchas veces me frustre pensando en que solamente me detesta pero cuando la veo de aquella forma no puedo evitar sentir lástima por sus condiciones, no es sencillo ser reina y no se tiene la facilidad de la confianza, tampoco es que pudiera ganármela, solo podía hacer lo mejor de mí para asegurar su protección
The ride was long and arduous, but Seraphina rode her horse with the grace and composure that was expected of her. Even as she focused on leading their small force through the treacherous terrain, she couldn't help but steal glances at Tianlong. His determination impressed her; he seemed so dedicated to his task, even when she knew it was all for show.
She wondered what would happen if he were truly given a chance to rebel against her. Would he take it? She doubted that any man could resist the lure of power and freedom, not once they'd tasted them. But then again, perhaps Tianlong was different. Perhaps there was something about him that made him more honorable than others. Or perhaps she simply didn't want to believe otherwise.
As their first day on the road came to an end, Seraphina signaled for them to make camp. The soldiers set up tents and prepared food as she dismounted her horse and walked over to where Tianlong had stopped beside his own steed. "Tianlong," she said softly, meeting his eyes for a moment before looking away. "Thank you for your efforts today." There was no trace of sarcasm in her voice; her gratitude seemed genuine enough.
He bowed his head in acknowledgement, his expression unreadable as always. "It is my duty to serve, Your Majesty," he replied solemnly. For a brief moment, she found herself wondering what he was thinking beneath that impenetrable mask of his...and whether there was anything more she could say or do to break through it.
Las palabras de agradecimiento de la reina no eran falsas, podía notarlo en su voz, pero después de todo yo era un siervo por lo que no podía hacerme demasiadas ilusiones, mi corazón no se movía por las ambiciones terrenales, los principios y mi espíritu eran más importantes que cualquier cosa que el oro podría dar siquiera. Mi yelmo no era quitado en ningún momento, estaba de servicio mientras custodiaba el campamento, desenvaino la espada que la reina me dio, 'Eryth' y empiezo a afilarla, lentamente, dejando que su filo brille con las llamas del fuego bailando en su reflejo, subiendo y bajando la piedra y el trapo, mis pensamientos no cesaban y las estrellas brillaban en el cielo, ayudándome en mi vigilia Algún día, haré que mi habilidad con la espada sea reconocida por todos y por la reina, algún día, podré decir con orgullo que mi madre fue la maestra de este maestro de la espada. Susurro contra el viento mientras la nostalgia me llevaba a mi pasado lejano, cuando mi madre jugaba con espadas de madera conmigo, puede que fuera poco antes de la última guerra, sé que era de los últimos recuerdos antes de que viera su armadura destrozada y ensangrentada, su cara casi irreconocible excepto por una estrella marcada en su cuello como forma de marca de nacimiento
As the night grew darker and more silent around them, Seraphina found herself unable to shake the feeling that something about Tianlong was different than she'd first thought. There was an air of melancholy about him that spoke of hidden depths, a sense of loss and longing that made her uneasy in ways she couldn't quite understand. Perhaps it was because she saw so little of herself in him; he didn't seem to be driven by ambition or the desire for power, but rather by something else entirely.
She took a step closer to him, drawn against her better judgment like a moth to the flame. "Tianlong," she said softly, meeting his eyes for what felt like the first time since they'd begun their journey. "You haven't told me much about yourself." It was a simple enough question, but there was an undercurrent of curiosity in her voice that made it sound more like a challenge.
No hay mucho que decir, su majestad. No aparto la vista del fuego mientras afilo a Eryth, para una reina la vida de uno de sus capitanes podría ser algo común, no lo decía de mala manera, pero un reino la componen millones de personas por lo que un solo capitán en un ejército con miles de ellos no era demasiado extraño perderlos en una guerra territorial Mi madre era una oficial, una capitana, de los regimientos fronterizos orientales, cuando tenía quince años, la llamaron a filas por la incursión que sería ejecutada por el Imperio, dos años después se acabó la guerra y se firmaron tratados de paz pero con la paz llegó el cadáver de mi madre, ensangrentada y apenas reconocible. Aquellas últimas sentencias aún perforaban mi corazón, seguramente muchas personas habían perdido a sus familias en esa guerra y seguro que muchos eran más jóvenes que yo pero eso aún quemaba a día de hoy Mi padre no pudo soportar la pérdida de mi madre, estaban enamorados desde jóvenes, eran vecinos en su aldea natal, se acabó suicidando unas semanas después y me dejó una carta de despedida con disculpas por abandonarme. Saco la carta de la pechera de mi armadura, siempre la llevaba encima, como recordatorio de lo doloroso que pueden ser las guerras y de dónde vengo No culpo las treguas, hay millares de familias a salvo gracias a eso, solo siento que me robaron a mi familia sin poder despedirme.
"I am sorry to hear that," she said softly, her voice filled with empathy as she regarded him. "It must have been difficult for you." She paused, considering her next words carefully before continuing, "But now you have the chance to fight for something better. To make your mother's sacrifice meaningful." Her eyes flickered toward the horizon, as if drawn by some distant memory. "We can rebuild our kingdom together, Tianlong. We can make it stronger, more prosperous...and we will avenge those who have fallen."
There was power in her words, a sense of determination that seemed to resonate even through the silence of the night. For a moment, Tianlong couldn't help but believe in what she was saying. Perhaps there was hope for them yet...perhaps this wasn't merely an alliance of necessity, but something more.
Esbozo una media sonrisa tras mi yelmo, mis ojos únicamente observaban las danzas del fuego mientras escuchaba a la reina, puede que fuera cierto pero son en estas noches cuando mis recuerdos son más vívidos que nunca, pienso en que fue y en lo que podría haber sido, finalmente solo me levanto y camino hacia la reina, quito mi yelmo dejando caer mi melena plateada e hinco mi rodilla con solemnidad Su majestad, os juro eterna devoción, eterna servidumbre, juro vivir y morir únicamente bajo sus órdenes, sé que no confiáis en mí, no os culpo, el poder de una reina atrae la ambición como el fuego a las polillas, por lo que no os pediré confianza, aún así os juro daros mi vida, mi servicio y daros los herederos que deseáis y, aunque suene poco sincero, jamás os pediré ni un ápice de poder, incluso si cuando tengáis herederos deseáis deshaceros de mi, yo mismo apuñalaré mi corazón.
Seraphina raised an eyebrow at his words, her expression unreadable. For a moment, she thought he was mocking her. But then, just as quickly, she realized that perhaps there was truth in what he said. His dedication and sincerity were almost...refreshing. "Very well," she said finally, nodding once. "Your oath is accepted." She glanced away, looking toward the tents where their soldiers slept.
There was a long pause before she spoke again. "Tianlong...I know you must find it difficult to trust me. But I want you to understand that my decisions are made for the good of our kingdom, no matter how harsh they may seem." Her eyes met his in the darkness, searching for any sign of understanding or acceptance.
"I will not forget what has happened," she continued, her voice softening. "Nor will I let it happen again...but we must move forward together, if we are to survive." Seraphina hesitated, unsure how much more she should reveal. Finally, she added quietly, "I lost someone too, you know. A long time ago..."
There was a finality in her words that suggested this topic was best left unexplored further. She turned away again, studying the night sky thoughtfully. The silence between them stretched out for several moments more before Seraphina spoke once more. "Get some rest, Tianlong," she said, her voice almost gentle. "Tomorrow will be another long day."
She didn't wait for him to reply before walking away, leaving him alone with his thoughts and the darkness of night.