Everlasting B.L.O.O.D

"Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations."

Psalm 145:13

Sophia's POV:

The air was cool, crisp to the touch. It beckoned me... but I can't stay for long. No matter how much I wish it, it's forbidden. I almost pity myself. Is this, perhaps, how the past Queen felt? I can hardly remember her to this day... I've never called her mother. It makes me wonder—did she ever love me? Randolph constantly reminds me how much I resemble his late older sister. I can't say I find it flattering... if anything, I hate it.

"Your Highness— I mean, Your Royal Majesty. Please, we must turn back while we still have time!"

Deep in thought, my eyes were glued to the full moon hovering over me in the night sky—that was, until Amber's worried voice called out to me. Grabbing my hand, I looked in her direction and saw the fear in her eyes. Her frantic gaze kept darting around as the thick forest surrounded us. Yet all I could do was roll my eyes and ignore her.

"Amber, as my Lady-in-Waiting, I understand you must address me formally. But while we are out of the Castle, I urge you... call me by my name—"

"With all due respect, I cannot. It would disrespect the royal monarch and my obedience. I live to serve, but I beg you... if His Royal Majesty finds out you've snuck out—"

"Randolph has no right to get away with what he's done. And I'm not about to be disrespected by his concubine. Some laws must be followed. However, I will break any rule that gets in the way of my benefit. I couldn't care less about those who are insignificant in my life. But if you must use a proper title for me, use something less obvious. We can't afford to let anyone know about my presence within the Kingdom. Now come—we must hurry before the sun rises."

I ordered Amber while placing my hood over my head. Concealing my face, I continued through the forest. But not before I looked back and saw my home. The castle was already miles behind me. It hadn't been easy getting past the Royal Guard that protects it, but since Amber has served the Vladimirovich family for several decades, she’s memorized the entire estate. It made sneaking us out much easier.

"I understand, My Lady. I'm just worried about your safety. You haven’t stepped out of the Castle walls in so long. But surely there must be an explanation as to why the King has done this. Perhaps there was a misunderstanding—"

"There is no misunderstanding. My uncle... is a selfish man. Even when it comes to my life and my happiness, he won’t allow it—not unless he’s the one who controls it. Regardless of his reasoning, I won’t forgive him."

I explained with a tired sigh, and Amber remained quiet, her head down as she followed behind. However, I grew more annoyed as several branches snagged at my dress. Fortunately, the struggle came to a stop once we finally reached the inner city. I was in complete amazement at the many candles lighting the city streets, and the civilians wandering about the roads and shops. Some rode in carriages, while others sat near a fountain, laughing among themselves.

"Seeing how calm everyone is, it almost seems like... we weren’t at war a while back."

I commented as Amber quickly hooked her arm with mine, leading me through a dark alley. Before I could question her actions, she hid us behind a lamppost. I followed her gaze to a group of Royal Guards patrolling the area. Realizing this, I sighed heavily, reminded once again of how much security this Kingdom has. But it's to be expected—we can’t have another tragic attack happen again.

"Forgive me, my Lady, I didn’t mean to touch you so recklessly—"

"It’s quite alright. If anything, I should be the one apologizing. I wasn’t paying attention. It's been so long since I last left the castle... I think I was still a child when I was first taken out. But that was almost a century ago, so everything seems so... surreal."

I tried my best to explain, though I wasn’t sure if I was making any sense. I've spent most of my life within the Castle, so being in this new environment is all very strange to me. Part of me wishes I wasn’t involved with the Monarch... but saying that would be blasphemy against my husband’s name... and mine.

"Please don’t ever apologize, my Lady. It’s understandable. I still remember it like it was almost yesterday when you were but a child. It’s been a few bittersweet years, watching the late Queen and King pass. Many within the Kingdom still mourn to this day. However, I believe that things happen for a reason. Now... we should hurry. I know of a place where we could get more information—this way."

Amber explained in a monotone voice, and I immediately followed her footsteps. But her earlier words made me realize just how many lives were affected because of my mother and father. It makes me question if I could ever be just as good... or even better than them. Even I can see how loved they were by everyone—especially my late mother. I'm not sure if I envy her... or if it’s just jealousy.

Trying to distract myself from my inner thoughts, I stayed close to Amber as she led us through a small, narrow street. It wasn’t until she asked me to stay by the entrance of a building that I realized why she had brought us here. It makes sense that this is the only place likely to have any information about what’s happening in the Kingdom. I’m certain someone would have spotted several elite Royal Guards escorting someone. I just hope we’re not too late...

"A pub, of course."

I said with a sarcastic pout as I leaned against the brick wall behind me. Crossing my arms against my chest, I rested my head back.

"My Lady, please don’t stand like that. It’s not proper for someone of the Royal House. I promise you, it won’t take long. I will only need a moment."

She explained, all the while lecturing me. I waved my hand for her to leave. I was already agitated by the situation. After watching Amber walk inside, she immediately disappeared once the door closed behind her. Strange... I'm curious about how Amber knows this area. I can’t even recall how she came to work for the Royal Family.

"Mommy, will I be able to go this time!?"

Hearing the voice of a young girl, I looked across the street, staying hidden within my cloak. She was getting off a carriage along with an older woman, who wore a fine, laced dress. Based on how she carried herself, I could tell right away she was of high stature

"Of course. Your father and I do not doubt that you will be chosen this year. You’ve trained for almost a decade and devoted your entire time to studying—"

"I still think I’m too young... what if... the Royal family don’t like me—"

"Nonsense. Why wouldn’t they? You are perfect, and you will make our family so very proud. Now wait here. I need to pick up your floral dress. You need to look impeccable for the festival coming up in a couple of weeks. And I need to make sure it’s Her Royal Majesty’s favorite color. That way, you could gain her favor. I won’t be long, so wait here..."

As I listened to their conversation, I realized what they were talking about. It sounds like the little girl will be a candidate to be a servant, perhaps? How odd—usually they are much older. Seeing this child as a competitor to the rest of the adults is quite fascinating. The mother also mentioned the dress being my favorite color. Curious... I wonder if they even know what it is.

"Huh, where is it!? I had it right here!"

I suddenly heard the young girl panic as I watched her step off the carriage and begin searching around. Confused, I paid close attention to what she might be looking for. My eyes then locked on a peculiar object a few feet away from the carriage. As I approached it, I realized what it was.

"A doll..."

I whispered to myself as I began wiping the dirt off its little red dress. It must have fallen off the carriage earlier. Her pale white skin almost matched her long platinum hair, and those light silver eyes glimmered brightly when the moonlight reflected their marble gaze. Seeing it made me feel empty... because it wasn’t only a reflection of my mother that I saw... it was almost like staring into a mirror.

"My doll... that’s mine."

I overheard the little girl speak behind me. Gripping the doll in my grasp, I turned around and saw her standing there with a nervous posture. Her dark red eyes were glued to the doll. I made sure to keep my face concealed beneath my cloak as I slowly began to approach her. And to my surprise—she didn’t seem afraid...

So I quietly extended my arm and handed back her doll. At first, she was hesitant, but she carefully grabbed it with both hands and brought it back to her embrace. She looked a lot calmer as she released a sigh of relief. But her eyes began to wander in my direction, and I quickly tried to walk away so she wouldn’t be able to notice who I was. I was caught off guard by her sudden hand grabbing onto my sleeve!

"Thank you. I would've been sad if I lost it. My father gave it to me as a birthday gift… he told me to take care of it. Especially because it looks like Her Royal Majesty, the Queen. I've never seen her before, but my parents told me that she's just as beautiful as a goddess. But what about you? Have you ever seen the Royal Family?"

Before I could even respond, we both suddenly heard her mother calling out in a state of worry. Seeing that her daughter was no longer by the carriage, I knew I had to get away before the mother noticed me! So without thinking, I immediately faced the little girl and placed my index finger against my lips. Giving her a vague smile, I witnessed her exaggerated expression.

Her once dark red eyes sparkled in awe the second she saw my face more clearly. I'm certain my silver eyes stood out to her, as she instantly bowed while nodding her head in agreement with my gesture. She quickly ran back to her mother in silence—but not before looking back at me one last time. Her wide smile, along with her watery eyes, showed me how impactful my appearance can be to someone. I'm not sure if I like it, but either way… this is the curse I will forever live with

"There you are! I told you to wait by the carriage. You had me scared for a moment! Where did you run off to?" The mother scolded her as I watched her pull the child into the carriage.

Quickly heading back to the pub, I hoped the girl wouldn't say anything about seeing me. However, I'm not sure if I should put my trust in a child. But as I approached the building, I saw that Amber was already stepping out. Watching her place her hood back on, she masked her face and quickly ran toward me. Her heavy breathing caught me by surprise—something must be very wrong if Amber is acting this anxious. Just what happened—

"My Lady! Quick, we must hurry!"

"What are you talking about? Hurry where?"

Confused by Amber’s sudden actions, she urged me to follow her. Grabbing my hand, she picked up the pace, and we both ran. It wasn’t until we crossed several roads and made our way through a deep tunnel that I realized we were heading close to one of the outer gates of the Kingdom. There were hardly any buildings around us, and before I knew it, we came upon what seemed to be an abandoned cottage once we cleared the tunnel that led to a vast landscape. It was almost easy to miss the tiny house, hidden as it was by several trees surrounding it.

"What is this place?"

I asked curiously, but Amber remained quiet, her tense gaze fixed on the main entrance of the cottage. Looking back, I finally noticed a dim light by the window. It seemed that someone was inside. Shutting my eyes, I focused all my senses as I smelled the air. A strong musk… bitter blood… and a light hint of iron.

"She's in there, isn't she?"

I commented. Looking back at Amber, she slightly nodded, and I wasted no time approaching the small house. This place looked perfect for keeping someone hidden, which made me question how she found it—

"My Lady, watch out!"

Amber shouted as I suddenly felt a sharp tug on my cloak! Being pulled back, all I saw was a flash of something shiny flung right past me! Its sharp edge slashed through the air—I could even hear the sound it made. Just what the hell was that?!

"You are trespassing."

They growled in a threatening tone as I kept my distance. I was only a few feet away from the cottage door, but I had failed to realize someone might be guarding the place. Sure enough, I heard a deep voice speaking to me. If it hadn’t been for Amber interfering, I would’ve surely been hurt.

But the second I recognized their uniform, I knew right away—it was a Royal Guard. He held a sword, pointing it directly at me and Amber. I wanted so badly not to be right, but it seems my instincts proved just how corrupted my relationship was with the King...

"How dare you?! If you were wise, you would put that sword down! Do you have any idea what you’ve almost done? If His Royal Majesty were here, he would have killed you himself..."

As Amber yelled at the guard, all I could do was take a deep breath and calm my nerves. But no matter how much I tried, it was no use. I’d lost all composure and patience. I won’t wait anymore...

"Who ordered you?"

I coldly asked the guard as I slowly began to approach him. Yet he refused to answer and kept his weapon up. I couldn’t help but smirk at the situation I was in...

"My Lady, no… it's too dangerous—"

"I won’t ask again. Who ordered you to help her escape?"

Ignoring Amber’s warning, I began to take off my hood as I spoke to the guard one last time. I understood how terrified Amber was for me—she didn’t want anyone to see me exposed in the city. She feared for my safety. But the moment the guard saw my eyes, it only took him a second to immediately bend the knee and drop his weapon.

"Your Royal Majesty! Please forgive me. I didn’t mean any disrespect, I swear it. I didn’t realize it was you! Please… spare me. It… was the King. He paid me in gold to take her away from here and to keep it secret from everyone in the Kingdom—"

"That's enough. I don't care about the reasoning anymore. It won't make a difference in the end. Amber… kill him."

I strictly directed her as I walked past the guard. His breathing was heavy as he began to tremble in fear. However, he never wavered from his fate. Amber followed through with my orders. The instant I grabbed the handle of the door, I heard a discomforting grunt from behind me. Looking back, I watched as Amber pulled out the guard's beating heart. As his body hit the ground, a small bag fell from his side pocket.

The moment Amber crushed his heart within her grasp, she picked up the pouch and confirmed it contained the gold coins Randolph had given him. Rolling my eyes, I entered the home and was welcomed by a now pitch-dark room. It looked like she knew I was here and was trying to hide like some frightened child. Pathetic...

"Your Majesty, what would you like me to do with the body?"

Amber asked, her voice sounding defeated. I knew she never wanted this night to end in bloodshed. But there's no avoiding it—not when I’ve been betrayed.

"Bring it inside and wipe the blood off your hands."

I said as I grabbed a lantern sitting on a dusty table. Turning it on, a very dim flame lit the room. Shadows were cast across the walls from the scattered furniture. It wasn’t until Amber left the room in silence that I finally picked up on a shallow cry. The sound of my heels echoed with every step as I approached the noise. The cries grew louder until I reached the closet. Grabbing the handles, I swung both doors open.

Immediately, I wanted to kill the woman I saw in front of me—but what good would that do? Her bright red eyes were drowned in tears as she clutched something close to her bosom. Clenching my jaw, I felt my fangs almost pierce my lips as I quickly grabbed the small blanket she held. Her desperate grip was almost surprising. Unfortunately for her, my strength was something she could never surpass.

But the instant I took the bulk of the sheets from her, something fell from within them. A small vial—it was empty. However, that familiar scent… I knew it all too well. It made sense now why she was crying. I should be crying too… but why can’t I? Unveiling the sheets, I finally saw the dead newborn. A small trail of blood ran down its mouth…

"You killed my child. Why—"

"She is my child! She was... my baby. He... told me he would protect us... that he loved us. But... he never came..."

Her words interrupted mine as she crawled out of the closet. Her cries grew more broken as she lay across the floor, looking defeated. I soon heard a loud thump from behind me. Amber had dropped the body near the fireplace. I was certain she heard the woman speak, as her eyes widened in total dismay. Her anger was clear as she began to approach the King's concubine. Quickly raising my arm, I stopped her from getting any closer and handed Amber the dead infant.

"You foolish girl. You dare kill the Queen’s child?! What nonsense are you speaking? You and every other concubine who lives within the Castle are to submit not only to the Royal King but to the Queen as well. That includes the children you give birth to. Once you have given birth, you are to leave the castle after a year has passed. You are never to meet the child, for it is to be raised by the Queen—"

"She is not the mother! I am... I... I was supposed to be the one to raise her. My baby, I'm so sorry... My King... forgive me—"

"He gave you a vial of his blood so you could kill the child. I've never cared for any of you concubines, let alone learned your names. However, it seems you aren't the only concubine the King has gotten rid of."

I began to explain as I made my way back to Amber, who was waiting by the doorway, holding the baby in her hands. She did her best to suppress her emotions as I gripped the lantern. Upon closer inspection, I opened one of the child's eyes and noticed the color red. A half-breed...

"Huh? Get rid of? What are you talking about—"

"You are just one of many. The King impregnated several concubines in his past life. Though he would kill them afterward, it just so happens you were one of his favorites. But eventually, he grew tired of you... Stupid girl. It was never love; you were just simple entertainment for him. Getting pregnant was just an obstacle he had to get rid of. He ordered the Royal Guard to kill you once you left the kingdom. Ten gold pieces is what you were worth—"

"No... That's a lie... He would never—"

"Feel free to count them. This isn't the first time he's sent concubines to their deaths unknowingly. Why else would he send you away with the child? Was it because he told you it would be a last resort? If so, just know that the King would never—and will never—care that you killed a child that was once his. The reason is that he doesn't want a half-breed as an heir. However, I couldn't care less what your child was. If anything, I wanted to protect your child from him... but I failed."

I finished explaining as I tossed the pouch of coins toward the concubine. She immediately went through it, and her entire face grew pale. It was at that moment she knew I spoke the truth. For several decades, I've known about the King killing several concubines, but it was only recently that I discovered—through Amber's observation—that he's been killing his offspring as well. I'm still in denial, even now... I want to believe it's a lie.

"Your Highness, please... none of this is your fault. Come, we must head back before anyone discovers you're missing—"

"I sacrificed my child for nothing... Everything... All of it was a lie... My Queen... I'm sorry... But I can't believe you! It's not true! I... I loved him... I love him..."

Amber's words were soon interrupted by the concubine's tantrum as she began to groan in despair. It was only then that I couldn't help but laugh out loud at her reaction. The King has completely broken this girl—to be obedient, to be naive... to be completely dependent on him. What a ruthless King I've married... yet I can't help but admire those attributes.

"My uncle has lived a hundred lifetimes... You are only nineteen. Believe me, half-breeds like you are easily replaceable. Unlike me, purebloods are the rarest breed to come across. We've practically become extinct, so trust me... You are nothing but a speck of dust on this earth. So do us all a favor... kill yourself. If you truly love my husband... drink your blood until you've consumed its last drop."

I last said to her in a snarl before throwing the lantern toward the corpse of the guard. In an instant, his entire body burst into flames the moment the lantern shattered over him. Amber soon stepped out while carrying the deceased infant, as I too was about to exit the cottage. I averted my gaze back at the young girl and saw the dead look in her eyes.

The absolute satisfaction brought my lips to a curl the second I saw her bite down on her arm. A trace of blood began to run down her mouth as she slowly began to close her eyes. But her tears showed so strongly, along with the bright flames consuming this place. How poetic... but for the most part, what a waste of time.

"Amber, bury the child by the tree over there. Quickly..."

I ordered her as I stepped away from the cottage. She immediately bowed in agreement. It only took a few seconds, but the entire house was engulfed in a ball of fire. The sound of the wood crackling brought me ease. I didn't realize how tense I was. I guess it's been a long night, and I'm ready to head home—not that it feels like home. It hasn't for a while...

"Your Majesty, it is done."

Amber spoke in grief as she began to help place my hoodie back on, concealing my face. We immediately hurried back. It didn’t take long to hear several civilians from a distance pointing out a thick black smoke rising into the sky. Ignoring the crowd, I stayed close to Amber as we made our way back into the woods. Daylight was almost upon us, though the walk back to the castle was quiet, aside from the branches snapping beneath us.

The river was the only thing keeping my composure. I wanted to scream... but looking at the cool waters kept me calm. As angry as I am, it won't fix what I lost. How many times did I become a mother, only to have the King take it away? Maybe this is a sign... Perhaps someone like me was never meant to have a child—

"Huh, do you hear that?"

Amber suddenly asked as she began to walk toward the river. Unsure of what she was doing, I tried to listen to what she was saying. And sure enough, I heard something as well.

"Is something crying?"

I asked Amber while following the sound. Getting closer to the river, Amber and I immediately spotted a small basket trapped between a few branches. It was across the river, and although it wasn't far, I wasn't sure how deep the water was. As embarrassing as it is to admit for someone my age, I don't know how to swim...

"Amber, do you think you can grab the basket before the river drifts it away? I would go myself, but..."

"Of course, Your Majesty. I wouldn't let you risk your life for something like this. Please wait here."

She quickly answered as she entered the water. Luckily, the river wasn't deep. Watching her make her way toward the basket, the sunrise was beginning to approach us. This night wasn't how I expected things to turn out, but as the morning dew followed, a new surprise came into my life. The moment Amber brought the basket to me, I opened it without hesitation, and this feeling in my chest—I haven't felt it in so long. My face instantly became warm, and what I saw made me smile for the first time in a century, for I finally felt blessed...

Ezekiel 36:26

"And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh."