{Zane's POV}

I woke up in my bed, questioning everything I experienced the previous night. But despite everything that happened, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. I didn't know what exactly, but it felt like it was something important. I got up out of bed and got dressed just like I would any other day. Nobody stopped by my room to make sure I was up and ready, however. Something was terrifyingly off.

I walked out of my room: No maids going room to room for daily cleaning.

I walked down the hall: No servants bustling about.

I walked into the kitchen: No aromas of fresh food in the air.

I walked into the garden: No landscapers trimming the hedges.

I walked to the front gates: Two measly guards protecting the castle.

I approach the two guards and they quickly straightened up, attempting to look presentable in front of the lord's son.

Zane: You two. Where has everyone in the palace gone?

The guard on my left stepped forward. He was a younger looking man, a bit younger than me I assumed. His brown eyes met mine with a serious expression.

Guard: Master Zane, everyone has left to greet your brother for his return.

???: That's what I had been trying to tell you yesterday.

I heard the voice of a young man come from behind me. I turn around and see Jeffery with a worried expression.

Zane: My... Garroth has returned already?

Jeffery: Yes. Now, would you like me to-

Zane: Wait. Where's Y/N?

Jeffery: What?

Zane: Y/N. I couldn't find her this morning. Where is she?

Jeffery: Y/N? Who is Y/N?

Zane: The girl I had living here for the past few weeks. You know, (b/h), (s/t), long brunette hair, hazel eyes?

Jeffery: I don't recall a(n) Y/N that matches those descriptions, sir.

Zane: But-

Jeffery: Master Zane, I'm only joking. She had gone with the rest to greet your elder brother. She had left quite early, might I add. I offered to personally escort her to the docks but she refused my assistance.

Zane: ... Thank you, Jeffery.

Jeffery: Shall I escort you to the docks then?

Zane: No, thank you. I'm sure I can manage a brief walk.

Jeffery: Why do I feel so useless today?

Zane: Jeffery, think of it as having the entire castle to yourself. I'm sure you can find something to occupy your time.

Jeffery: The entire castle...

Zane: Yes, just please don't make a mess.

As I turned to walk towards the town, I thought back to the previous night. By then, the dream had nearly faded entirely from my memory. The only thing I could remember was that it had something to do with Y/N. What was that about...?

I had finally reached the town square and found it to be nearly deserted aside from the occasional peddler wandering about. I paid no mind to them and continued my journey. When I reached the docks, I saw a large O'Khasis ship towering over a surrounding crowd. There were roars of laughter and cheers from the servants as a large wooden ramp was pushed off the ship and my brother appeared. He was very popular amongst them, but I could never quite figure out why. I always imagined that the ladies adored him for his good looks and the men only appreciated him because the women did. Garroth began to make his way down the ramp quickly and pushed his way through the crowd. Palace guards cleared a path for my brother as young women screamed for his gaze, however he seemed to have something on his mind. He neither waved nor smiled at the people as he passed through. He didn't even acknowledge their presence in the slightest. I hurried over to him when I noticed him taking a turn that led not to the castle, but in the complete opposite direction.

Zane: Garroth! What are yo- ack!

Just as I was trying to call out to my brother, Garroth's entourage of fangirls had broken through the barrier of O'Khasis guards and pushed me to the ground. There were skirts and dirt everywhere and I couldn't see a thing. The next thing I knew, a girl had kicked me in the head and I was out like a light.

Hey lovelies! Like I said earlier, thank you so much for your patience. I'll be adding another chapter Saturday because tomorrow I have to go to work with my dad. I will be working on it a bit tonight tho so who knows? Maybe it will be up tomorrow night...

...

...

...

... or maybe over a year...

Again, I am so sorry! Although, I do regret to inform you all that I am starting to plan the end of the story. I can't say when it will be but I do have plans for far more chapters.

And... I guess I owe you all an explanation for why I've been gone so long...

I've been working on a new book. It's not a fanfic, it's a story plot that I came up with (mostly) on my own. I'll be releasing some info on that if you want in a future update. With that being said, I'd better stop procrastinating and work on chapter 22. I love you all so much! Stay amazing!

~ Riley