3 years later

The sound of heavy and rapid heels echoed throughout the hall as the feet that wore them rushed their way to their awaiting destination. Her gown, a color of dusty pink had merriment in its hues and generous folds; one could as effortlessly climb trees as a waltz in such a gown.

Her lips were as good as her eyes in a painting of her emotions. She didn't hide it, how could she? She'd waited for this moment her entire life. The news she carried was one many dare to want to witness. She couldn't help but receive disapproving glances from the staff.

"Unlady-like", she would hear them say often if not repeatedly since the day she could walk.

And now, the teen girl, breathless stood in front of the double doors. Her smile reached ear to ear and she couldn't help but linger for a single second to catch her breath before bursting the doors open. Too much exciting news to not tell right away.

"Sera!", Emmeline shrieked.

Sera immediately looked up from the book her eyes were fixated on. She knew well what her friend was about to speak of. Their eager smiles lingered far too long before one was able to let a word out.

"It's time?"

"It's time!"

Both girls ran into each other's arms, embracing and bouncing up and down as they repeated, "We are going to Salix!"

Sera breathed in the morning fresh air as she welcomed the sunrise. With the rising of her chest came a sense of calmness that she yearned for to suppress the excitement she felt. She felt a little of those golden rays soak into her skin.

Her head tilted towards Emmeline who stood right beside her, conveying her with a smile before they descended the steps. At the bottom of those steps was her father. Demanding, pointing, and checking that everything was for the journey they had ahead of them. Shortly after he saw his daughter, he halted, and with a proud grin, he waited till she descended the final steps.

The staff couldn't help but be mesmerized by her beauty every time she came into their presence. She resembled her mother in every way. Her long chocolate-colored hair to her fair skin and even to her small barely visible freckles. Her smile was with her eyes even when her lips were still. Her same gentle touch and fiery passion. Two dew drops, alike in every way possible, with just one small difference. Sera's eyes resonated with her father's.
If anyone has ever seen blue fire perhaps they have an idea how much eyes were ocean-strong and of midwinter sky.
Her mother's beauty was proclaimed far and wide and even so now at the age of thirteen Sera would had many begging for her hand if only she wasn't already betrothed to the Dellz future king. How could anyone go against them? Foolishness you might call.

A stable-hand boy couldn't help but gawk at her. He was making sure the horses's halters were properly secured before they rode off. Even so, he had stopped just to have a glimpse at her. A minute did not pass before his father slapped his head and grabbed him by the back of his shirt. "your wondering eyes can get you imprisoned! Keep them focused on the task at hand".

"Yes, Father" The boy nodded before looking down and giving the horses one final adjustment.

Even the maids couldn't avoid feeling a tad bit jealous of the beauty of such a young child. They could never be as equally beautiful or more if they made an effort.

"Father!" Sera called as she finally reached the bottom. She quickly wrapped her arms around his waist, hugging him tight. He planted a kiss on top of her head before she pulled away.

Emmeline curtsey, "Your Majesty."

"Is mother not coming?" Sera asked.

"She's been to Salix quite too many times and decided it would be best that you and I go together. Call it a father-daughter bonding experience" King Rainer leaned in, " besides the wild lifestyle of the Salix people is not her cup of tea." he smiled.

Sera nodded and chuckled.

Rainer opened the carriage door and let both girls climb in. Their last bags were uploaded into the carriage. As seeing everything was ready for their departure, Rainer placed a foot on the step. But as he took a final look towards his castle, he caught sight of his wife. Holding onto the bottom of her skirt she descended the steps with such ease and swiftness. She ran into her husband's opened arms, slamming her lips against his. A million loving thoughts were reduced into a single moment. A promise of realness, a desire of wishing either one of them would come home safe into one another loving embrace once again. In that moment of the kiss, they were in each other's protective cocoon. Sera couldn't help but look on in adoration. Her longing was to someday be loved and love someone as much as her parents loved each other.

"Please come back to me and bring our baby home safe and sound" Queen Clera whispered towards her husband.

He chuckled lightly as he held on to her. "I'm not going to war you know."

She sighed with a half-filled smile. "I know, but can you ever be too sure?"

King Rainer planted a long kiss on his wife's forehead. "Don't worry we will be home before the third day sunset."

Clara nodded. "And please don't let Sera pick a child that she only sees as a playmate. She needs someone strong, trustworthy, and willing to die for her if the day comes."

"Sera is beyond her years. Too knowledgeable for her good. She has a good sense of judgment. She will make the right choice.", King Rainer responded.

Clara agreed with her husband by smiling. "Okay, go on now. I don't want to keep you waiting any longer than you should."

"I love you," he told her.

"I love you both more," she said, peeking inside the carriage at her daughter.

Rainer climbed inside the carriage and soon after they were quickly off.

The two girls, popped their heads out of the carriage, waving goodbye to the queen and staff.

"Bye, mama!" Sera yelled multiple times before they were out of sight.

For half of the ride, everyone was quiet. The girls kept themselves busy with books while the king contemplated everything that would occur once they arrived. It was a full day's ride to Salix and the king agreed to make the most of it with his daughter. He's quite occupied most of the time if not always and having any time with his daughter was honestly nonexistent. The only moment he would have time to converse with her was during dinner time. Even then it was merely but ten minutes before he's called on important matters. Though his love and affection for her was well known. He would shower her with hugs and kisses if she ever was in his presence even if that was just but a minute. He would even cater to her every desire. Sera knew as King, her father would have to be away more often than not. She understood how much he loved her and how much of an effort he made and that was all sufficient for her.

"Father, what's it like?" Sera asked, pulling Rainer from his thoughts.

Rainer's gaze shifted towards his daughter, "what's what like my blue fire?"

"Salix! Is it like the books say?" she pointed at the book and flipped it to face her father as she pointed at scriptures and paintings. Emmeline waited in anticipation of the king's answer.

The King slightly leaned in, smirking as his gaze shifted from both girls. "It is more than you can imagine!"

Their eyes widened as the girls looked at each other and squealed.

"Are the woods truly magical?!" Sera asked.

"Indeed they are."

"I've heard that they get their source of power from the trees and flowers" Emmeline added.

Rainer shook his head. "Not only that but from every insignificant to the most well-known living thing in those woods are Salix's source of energy."

"Even a mere tiny ant?!" Sera yelled as the excitement grew.

The King nodded, "Even an ant."

Sera gasped and Emmeline giggled. "She's been killing the ants back home in the garden!" Emmeline confessed.

"I have not!"

"Did too!"

"They crawled on me ages ago and bit me! I had sores all over my body and I was itchy for days! I promised myself that I would kill all if I see any- but I won't anymore."

Emmeline couldn't help but burst out laughing while Sera sulked her frustration. The King found it all amusing and couldn't help but chuckle.

"Did you have your own Salix protector?" Emmeline asked.

Sera couldn't help but look at her father on hearing Emmeline's question.

The king's expression changed. It was significant and woeful. "I did- a long time ago," he answered, staring out the carriage window.

"What was he like?" Sera asked softly.

"Was he a fierce fighting tiger or a ferocious bear with mighty claws?!" Emmeline asked as she clawed and roared.

The King slightly grinned. "Neither. He was an eagle and he was my best friend."

Emmeline's face crinkled as if she had just heard the most horrendous thing. "An eagle? What can an eagle do other than fly high in the sky? How can that protect you down below."

"What happened to him?" Sera asked gently, hoping her father would open up and tell the story.

" Years back when I was just a little older than you, sea raiders kept targeting our ships that were patrolling our nearby waters. Aldrin-" Rainer stopped for a moment as this was the first time since the death of his guardian that he had mentioned his name. "Aldrin and I decided to embark and take it upon ourselves and other seamen to eradicate our adversary. We won, yes, but at the cost of losing one of our own."

"How did he die?" Emmeline asked.

"He was surveilling the sky for any more of them. It only took a second of distraction before a canon was launched at him- died on impact."

There was a stillness after the King had apprised those horrific events. The girls were too saddened to express any condolences or to even speak up on any other matter. However, the king wasn't going to let his past wreck the special moment and so he broke the tension.

"Are you thrilled Sera? I know this will be one of the biggest decisions you will ever have to make in your life."

Sera provided her father with a sheepish grin. "Yeah."

"Choosing the right guardian is very important. As they will be your partner for life. They are your armor, your conscious, and your reasoning when times are tough. They will go into battle on your behalf and triumph in your name," Rainer took his small daughter's hand in his, looking her directly in the eyes, hoping she understood what he was explaining. "He or she will be the shoulder you cry on when you're feeling sad or alone- the only person who would stand with you through it all."

Sera nodded with every word her father spoke. Her eyes widened as she hadn't realized how important this decision was. This one person would change her life completely and she needed someone who she could trust until her last breath.

Emmeline leaned close, staring at the king and Sera with a smile that reached her pink cheekbones. "Do you have anyone in mind?"

Sera leaned back against her seat as she eyed Emmeline quizzically. Aware of how over the top her best friend can be.

"Are you maybe thinking of a guardian boy? Or a girl?"

Before Sera could answer, Emmeline cut her off. "I dare not dream for it to be a girl. I'm your only best friend and I can be..." She paused looking at the king and trying to recall all he said. She waved her hand in the air. "All his majesty had said. Gosh, I already do all that! Why does she even need a guardian? When her lady", Emmeline pointed at herself and with her hands in grace and elegance imitated a curtsey, "thus far provide that service."

"Oh, stop it you," Sera said while tittering. "You shall be wed someday and your obligation will then be to your husband and children, not me!" Sera reminded.

Emmeline frowned at the truth. "I'll dismiss any suitors who seek my heart for I am forever loyal to the Queen of Astorah," she declared.

Sera took her friend's hand in hers, "My dearest friend your loyalty shall never go unnoticed."

With one glance at each other, the girls couldn't help but burst out in laughter.

The cloudy morning brought a gentle diffuse light that soothed Rainer's sleepy eyes. He forced his head out of the carriage window to survey what the day might have carried. It revealed the blue amidst the whitish dove-grey, an assortment of silvers that ripple outwards to embellish the sky. The clouds moved north toward the ocean, darkening as they reached within spitting distance of Rainer's vessels. He prayed his men were well-equipped to withstand the storm that was heading their way.

Suddenly the carriage started to shift from side to side. Rainer held to the carriage's rim, "Woah." Amidst the chorus of the trees that sang notes of brightest green, was a pebbled mountain road. It was clear that they were reaching Salix's domain. The bumpy ride awoken the girls and they looked at the king excitingly. "Are we there yet?"

"Almost" he replied with a smile.

The girls scrambled towards the window, waiting to take in the view.

The forest was a three-dimensional wonderland for the eyes. It was a place of ancient souls, of the creatures who dwell within. The sun sank beneath the tops of the pines, lighting streaks through the branches in both brilliant and shadowy beams. In here, sheltered by the mighty trees, was every kind of life, from the sweet bee to enchanting birds of every color. Sera held her hands up to feel the cascading light, a brilliant white beam illuminating the road that took them onward toward the settlement. The fields of flowers portrayed a dancing rainbow. A garland of the most vibrant blooms. Sera and Emmeline couldn't help but inhale the sweet fragrance that poured from them as the carriage passed by. Vines with stunning enchanted buds hung in folds on the trees. Gently wavering in the breeze. This place was magical, so much so that they were able to feel it from their core to their fingertips.

Soon after, horns resonated throughout the forest, and they realized they had arrived. People and animals of all ages came to welcome them as the carriage slowly pulled in. The Salix people waved, giggled, and chanted as curiosity awakened them. Sera and Emmeline eagerly waved.

Surprisingly it wasn't as big as Sera had thought. The clan may have held a couple thousand Children and adults. The women and girls adorned their long hair with many flowers and braids. Compared to the women in Sera's kingdom their dresses left little to no imagination. They were made of lace and linen fabric with leather belts and flower vines to hold them in place. They also decorated their ankles and hands with handmade jewelry. A variety of forged gold, leather, and pearls. Nonetheless, They were stunning and resembled the beauty of fairies and elves.

On witnessing how unrestricted the women were in their chosen style, Sera expected the men to be using a small fabric to cover their intimate parts but to her surprise, they were fully clothed. Well most of them. A significant amount only wore trousers and boots, allowing their exposed upper abdomen to be viewed by all. Time, effort, and noble struggle gave the fruit to their strong physic. Hardcore muscles and chiseled jawlines were beyond anything Sera had ever seen. Sera's cheeks flushed bright red and she couldn't help but duck back inside the carriage until it had come to a stop.

The footman hopped off his seat and quickly came to open the door for the family. King Rainer was first to step out, followed by Sera and then Emmeline. The people surrounded the carriage but respectfully left enough room to not crowd his majesty and the future queen. Astorah's guards stood on watch in case of any uproar or sudden incursion.

From the crowd stepped Salix's chief. With a great smile and opened arms he welcomed the king in an embrace.

"My old-time friend! Is good to see you!" The chief said.

"My brother, it's been so long" Rainer replied as they patted, hugged, and examined how time changed their looks. They chuckled in admiration.

"Well welcome back!", the chief finally said.

He looked at the girls who stood next to the king with enthusiastic grins.

"Hmm let me guess", he looked at the girls carefully. One small hint gave it away as he pointed to Sera. "You are our future queen."

Sera nodded and curtseyed. "Yes, I am. An honor to meet you, sir."

"The honor is all mine Your Highness", the chief bowed.

"How did you know it was me?" she asked.

"You have your father's eyes," he answered before turning his gaze to Rainer again. "Come, we have plenty to discuss."

Rainer nodded.

"I'll have one of my guards escort the girls and show them around if that's alright with you."

"Yeah, that's no problem."

The chief signaled for one of his men who quickly came, they exchanged a few words and then Sera's father and the chief were on their way.

The guard bowed towards the two girls. "Your Highness- my lady."

The girls looked at each other and smiled.

"This way", he motioned.

Sera nodded and followed, Emmeline was close behind.

The many cottages nest in their mirth of grass. From all different widths and heights. The biggest possibly being the Cheif's family home.

Their cottage bears a pebbled path up to the door. Lightly lit lanterns adorned the path up to the porch. It had large arched windows. Through them, light poured gracing the air without favor, illuminating the browns of the wooden floor. Upon the roof sat the birds as if it were truly fashioned as their divine perch, their place to sing and play.

The garden had all sorts of fruit trees and flowers. Amid each green leaf and delicate petal, there are the dancing birds and squirrels that darted. The splash of red berries was so vibrant in between the green bushes that Sera couldn't help but lick her lips, Imagining how sweet and juicy they must taste.

Inside she could see the silhouette of a woman, cradling an infant in her arms as she paced back and forth. Sera was intrigued wondering who she might be. But her curious thought was swept away as the guard stepped in front of her and spoke up.

"Everything here provides sanctuary, and so we made sure to plant the same for Mother Nature. If insects, birds, and all sorts of animals aren't thriving then it is futile for us all. In this forest we guard the den of nature, for here we bare our souls in this land."

"What would happen if the magic of this forest is taken away?" Emmeline asked.

"Well, our people will suffer dire consequences."

"Will your people die?" she asked with a horrified look.

At noticing how unhappy Emmeline became, the guard did not dare tell the truth. A simple explanation of the truth shall be sufficient he thought.

"Well, my lady I don't believe it will cause our annihilation but it will be difficult for us to overcome."

He noticed how Sera kept trying to look over his shoulder and side. He raised an eyebrow and grinned. "anywho, I think it's time you girls met some of our youngest guardians."

That instantly caught Sera's attention. With one head gesture, the guard walked away and Emmeline was right on his feet. Sera pursued them but not with one last look at the window. However, the woman was nowhere to be seen.

There was a whole section where children from the ages of five until sixteen were practicing shapeshifting. They were categorized by their spirit animal. The biggest shapeshifting creature was a bear and the smallest was a mouse. Each division hung a banner with its beast's symbol. The divisions had at least one instructor, guiding them and encouraging the children. Sera and Emmeline noticed how the skills that were taught by each instructor depended on the child's animal. The bear was taught strength and power while the smallest, the mouse, was taught agility and cunningness. Some acquired the skill effortlessly while others struggled miserably.

The guard guided them throughout the camp. They carefully watched everything unfold. Staggered by how magical everything appeared. The older ones seemed more dedicated and serious about their training while the youngest were seen shapeshifting and running away from their instructor, giggles echoed throughout. The weary instructors ran after them, excusing themselves as they made their way between crowds of people.

The girls couldn't help but softly chuckle. Immediately a flock of birds swept down towards them.

"WATCH OUT!" The guard called as he hovered over the girls. The girls instantly dropped to their knees as they covered their heads. "Ah!"

The claws of theirs scarcely touched the guard's back. He growled in anger once they were further high, "You stupid children! You will not get away with this," he shouted with a fist in the air.

Once they were gone he turned towards the girls, "Your Highness are you okay?"

Sera nodded as she stood up and brushed the dirt off her dress.

"Princess!" Emmeline said as she assisted Sera with her dress. "You didn't get hurt did you?"

"No I'm fine Emmeline don't worry."

"My lady, you are hurt." the guard declared.

Both the guard and sera gazed at Emmeline's hands and elbows. Not realizing it, she finally looked down. "Oh!"

"Rather than swerving, I just threw myself on the floor," She said followed by a short giggle and then by a sniffling cry.

"I'll have one of my guards escort you to the medicinal tent-"

"Oh there's no need-"

The guard cued one of his mates and he quickly jogged over.

"She fell and scraped her hands and elbows, she needs to get those clean."

The guard nodded, "let's go."

Emmeline looked at Sera, hoping she would refuse and have her stay but knowing her well she did not. "Don't worry I'll be fine, go take care of those wounds. We will catch up later."

"You sure?" Emmeline asked.

"Yes go on," Sera said as she patted her shoulder in reassuring.

Emmeline nodded and followed the guard, taking one glance at her friend and waving goodbye.

"Your Highness, I promise their punishment will not be overlooked. Forgive me for not being more careful."

Sera waved it away. "Don't be concerned. They are just small children after all"

"But lady Emmeline got hurt-"

"I know and she wouldn't want them to get punished for a simple scrape."

The guard was quiet, contemplating what else to say.

"Now you promised to show me the upcoming guardians. Now shall we go?" Sera asked.

"Of course princess!" the guard walked on. Sera smiled as she followed him.

There was an area with very few children. No specific division. Sera assumed that all had different animals.

The guard leaned in and softly spoke, "These children were chosen from each division. They have the potential to be guardians of the royal family. Their training is quite different. More intense and more sacrificial to say the least."

"Sacrificial? Because of us- because of me right?" She asked.

"You're quite right princess. They need to learn how to put your needs first before their own. Your life before theirs."

Sera gulped as she found this truth to be unsettling. The thought of it seemed appealing at first but being here in front of all these hard-working people-children made it very clear that having someone live to just die for her was awful.

"Nonetheless, my very existence is their duty for every hour of the day. Their very thought is of me."

"Here they are", the guard said.

The ten children, ranging from all ages, rapidly lined up as instructed by their trainer. Compared to the younger children of the factions, these were very well-behaved. They silently stood side by side, straight back, arms to side, looking directly ahead.

"Attention! This is the crown princess Sera Zetian, the future queen of Astorah."

Small eager smiles lingered on the kids' faces before they disappeared and the heavy frowns appeared. The smallest children couldn't help with the excitement and their little feet tapped on the ground as they held the urge to sway back and forth.

" Today one of you will be chosen to be the guardian of our future queen. Please introduce yourself once she comes to you. Your name, skill, and spirit animal."

Sera pondered which child should she introduce herself to first. Should I start with age? Oldest to youngest or vice versa. Gender? Maybe girls first then boys? Or should I just go to the friendliest-looking one first?"

The instructor looked at the princess. "Your Highness", he gestured to the kids as he took a step back.

"Yes of course", she said acknowledging his meaning. She decided to go to the ones closest to her, which were the oldest.

"Hello nice to meet you, I'm Sera", she said.

The oldest boy, bowed, "Your Highness my name is Lucas it is my greatest honor to be in thy presence. My spirit animal is an eagle, specializing in stealth and velocity."

"An eagle you say?", Sera's lips curbed up into a half smile, remembering her father's guardian.

Sera's eyes lingered on the boy for just a moment before going up to the child who stood next to him. It was a girl, a little taller than she was. Sera was quite convinced she was older than her too.

"Hello, nice to meet you."

"Princess!", the girl exclaimed as she curtsies, remaining in that position a little longer than she should have. As not to be rude, Sera waited for her to rise. When she finally did, she introduced herself as requested by her instructor.

"My name is Arien. I am a fox and my skills are in nurturing and cunningness. Please don't let a fox's cunningness determine our worthiness to be guardians. I promise we are trained to use our sharp-witted minds for the good of the people and the safety of the crown."

"Thank you Arien, I'll keep that in mind," Sera replied.

Sera went on to the next child who waited to talk to her. Introducing herself once again and learning who they were. In the corner of her eye, she could see a slim, short blond-headed child get in between two kids. He wore a white top and trousers with no shoes. Covered in mud that reached his knees. He breathed heavily as he tried to straighten his posture. She was intrigued.

"Where did this child come from?"

Finishing her conversation she skipped the kids that came after and walked up to the blond boy. The instructor and guard were confused at first. They looked at each other questioning why she had skipped between children, until she came face to face with the muddy child, and their eyes widened.

She studied him carefully. At first glance, she noticed how skinny he was and quietly suspected an eating disorder. In truth, he had nothing of the sort and was just naturally slim. His shoulder-length hair brought memories of golden wheat fields. His eyes were the very green hue of the forest. He reminded her of sunshine and floral blooms.

"What is your name boy?", she asked.

"My name is Acer Your Highness", he replied with a stumbling bow.

Sera smiled, following with another question. "What is your age?"

"I am fourteen years old."

"Fourteen? You're older by a year yet I thought you were at least ten."

Acer awkwardly smiled.

He was several inches to a foot shorter than everyone else his age, including Sera. However, his height and slim figure didn't bother her. Somehow with little to no information, she was sure he was the right one for her.

Before anything else could be said, the instructor gripped him by the collar of his shirt and pulled him out of the line. "How many times have I told you, you aren't allowed to attend the guardian enlistment? Where are your guards?"

The boy snickered in the man's grasp. Letting his body go limp as he mocked the instructor. The instructor was furious as he stared down the boy waiting for an answer.

Sera was surprised. At first, she feared for the boy but realized this was a frequent occurrence and wasn't afraid at all.

"What is the meaning of this?!"

Everyone turned around to face the source of the thunderous voice. The chief and king of Astorah were marching over, with guards at their feet.

The instructor quickly let go of Acer, who fell on his knees, "Sir- I - he-"

The chief raised his hand in a gesture for him to shut up. "Acer come here now!"

The boy rapidly stood on his two feet, wiping away more mud that accumulated on his legs. He hesitatingly dragged his feet towards the chief. Acer stood in front of him with slumped shoulders while he stared down at his feet.

"Did you disobey the instructor's rules?"

"Yes," Acer confessed.

"You ran away from the guards why is that?"

Acer lifted his head and looked at Sera. "I wanted to see the princess."

The chief sighed in annoyance. "Your mother was worried. You sneaked passed the guards and ran barefoot into the forest."

"Yes, it was the easiest way to lose the guards."

Rolling his eyes the chief gripped Acer's shoulder and shoved him towards the guards. "Take him back to his mother."

Sera took a step forward. She needed to intervene. Acer was meant to be her guardian and if she just let them take him away, there would be a chance she would never see him again.

"Wait!" she shouted.

Everyone turned to look at her.

"I chose him as my guardian!"

Whispers and gasps were heard from everyone. Sera was confused as she glanced at everyone.

"Maybe that wasn't the right way to say it?"

The chief slightly frowned as he lowered his voice. "He cannot be your guardian."

"Why not?" Sera sternly asked.

"Because I said so."

Sera took further steps toward the chief. "That's not a valid reason."

The chief ignored her as he tried to walk away.

"he is part of this guardian division is he not?"

"Yes but-"

"So Why doesn't he qualify to be my guardian if I choose to? Did he fail his training? Is he incompetent or do you not think he is worthy to serve me?", Sera asked, stepping in front of the chief.

"Sera stop it right now!", King Rainer said, intervening in the conversation. "You cannot speak on what you don't understand."

Sera's fists clutched tightly to her side. "Then make me understand!", she said her eyes darting from her father to the chief of Salix.

"He is my son", the chief finally said.

Sera took a step back. "He's- he's what?", she looked from Acer towards the chief. They had a lot of similarities and she was blind for not seeing it before.

"He cannot be a guardian as he is the future chief of this clan. I cannot risk his life for the sake of you. Your people need an heir to carry them into the future, my clan needs one too."

Sera felt ashamed and remorseful. "I'm sorry- I didn't know."

"You can choose from any of these very skillful children but my son is off the table," with those final words the chief walked away, while his son was lightly dragged on behind him.

Sera peeked at her father, who only looked down at her in disappointment. She then looked at the instructor and the children who were still lined up. She faced them, looking at each one of them. With an apologetic glance, she said, "I'm sorry but I won't be choosing a guardian today." Taking up the bottom of her skirt she stormed off.

"Sera!" her father called out. "Come back!"

Sera pushed the door open to her cottage and stormed in.

"Sera!", Emmeline called as she saw her friend walk in. She happily brought herself to her feet. "You're back!"

Sera threw herself on the loveseat, frowning as she crossed her arms.

"Oh no, what's wrong?" Emmeline asked.

Before she could answer, the king walked in. "Sera we need to talk."

Sera rolled her eyes, avoiding his gaze.

Emmeline's gaze shifted from Sera to the king and back again. "Um, I'll let you guys chat then- if you need me I'll be outside." She awkwardly made her way out of the cottage.

Rainer sat beside his daughter. "What was that out there? Your mother and I taught you better."

"Good riddance neither of you taught me much of anything! All of my understanding came from all the professors you had hired. You and my mother were only there to make sure they succeeded. You only made sure your money was worth the spend."

The King was taken aback, surprised by the tone in Sera's voice. "That's not true- that's not true at all."

Sera shook her head. She was hurt and Rainer knew he needed to make it better. "What's all this about? Truly."

Sera's bottom lip trembled as she tried to suppress her tears. She finally glanced at her father. "I was completely embarrassed out there. You didn't even come to my defense."

"What-", the king was in disbelief, "What was I supposed to do?"

"You're the king! You have the power to say and demand what you want!"

The King rolled his eyes as he laid back against the loveseat, sighing deeply. "My guess is you wanted me to demand them to release Acer as your guardian?"

"Precisely!", Sera blurted out.

Rainer looked at his daughter quizzically. Unsure what prompted her to be so persistent for this boy. "Why are you so keen to have him as your guardian?"

"I-", Sera thought for a moment, " I don't know."

"Well, you sure do if not you wouldn't be so upset about it."

"Dad," Sera called softly.

Rainer couldn't help but feel his heart melt when his daughter called him. "Yes, my sky angel?"

"I just know he's meant to be my guardian. I don't know how to explain it but I just feel it from deep inside my core. I'm sure you felt the same for Aldrin, did you not?"

"I did."

"Then is there any possible way to convince the chief to let Acer come join us at the castle?"

The King thought for a moment. Considering all the possible ways this could either be a good or bad idea. Finally, he gave in, "I can't guarantee the chief will agree but I promise you I'll do my very best to persuade him."

Sera jumped up to her feet and shrieked in excitement as she threw herself in her Father's arms. "Thank you, thank you!"

Outside, Emmeline had an ear against the door, listening in on the conversation. "A guardian?! She had chosen one already?"

Suddenly she was able to hear footsteps get closer to the door. She instantly stepped back and feigned to admire her surroundings. The door flew open and out stepped Sera. "Emmeline!"

"Huh? Yes, your Highness?" Emmeline replied, turning around to face Sera.

"Come on!", She took Emmeline's hand, "I'm getting a guardian and we need to get ready for tonight's banquet."

"Is that so?", Emmeline mumbled.

Sera yanked her back into the house.

"Oh! hey!", she cried out.

Upon the evening sky, the sunset came in its boldest blaze. Hues of flame to mulberry purple told in soft rolling verse. The cottage homes and paths were adorned with many lanterns, leading to the center of a massive bonfire.

Every Salix citizen was following the paths that led there. They were all dressed in their most colorful attires. Their bodies were adorned with additional embellishments, more than usual. Emmeline and Sera were clinging to each other's arms as they followed the crowd. They couldn't help but giggle and point at everything they encountered. They'd never attended such festivity, it was all new to them and very exhilarating.

They had allowed some of the girls to help adorn their hair for the gathering. A handmade crown of flowers was crafted for the princess. In addition, small braids were created throughout her long hair. Emmeline's short bob left no room for much creativity but the girls were clever enough to create a cascade of small blooms on strands of her hair.

Sera wore a fern green gown. A love letter to nature herself. Representing her appreciation and commitment to the forest and the Salix people. It sat upon her skin as soft petals. Its touch was both light and soothing, perfect for the humid summer heat. Her corset had an intricate of swirls, and leaf-like patterns that held the flowy gown together. It accentuated her perfect hourglass figure, allowing her whole attire to be worth staring at.

Her best friend's gown was nothing less than stunning. With the gentle wind, Emmeline's gown fluttered like angel wings. Her dress was the yellow of a thousand warm suns, the promise of light that gives energy to nature. She was beautiful indeed. Her downturned eyes gave a reminder of an old barn door, flecks of profound brown married with lighter hues, similar to caramel and cocoa. And then There was a warmth her brunette hair brought to her features. The brown was of aged coffee, rich and deep. She had soft baby lips upon a soft baby face. Often than not her beauty was dimmed at the side of Sera's beauty but today it triumphed and all eyes were on her as much as they were on Sera's.

The girls reached the huge bonfire. People were dancing around it, drinking and conversing. Multiple Long tables, decorated with pine cones, wildflowers, and moss were set aside. Four candles were lined up on each table, lighting its center. Food was being placed on each table by the servants. It varied from all kinds of meat to vegetables and fruity desserts.

There was a momentary exchange of glances between Sera and Emmeline as they took in the view that lay in front of them. Music filled the air without effort, like the waves filling holes in beach sand; the sound rushing in and around every person. The notes were relaxing to Sera. It enabled the gentle melody of flutes and drums to call her entire being. There was something about the sound that felt so heavenly and magical. Her body swayed side to side like a tidal flow, as she closed her eyes and caved to every note being played.

"Hey, it's the king", Emmeline whispered in Sera's ear.

Sera opened her eyes, to see her father walk toward her. She smiled at him and he returned it with an even wider grin.
Standing in front of her, he bowed "Care to dance with an old king like me?".

Sera raised an eyebrow looking at him sheepishly. "Dad!", she giggled. "I would love to", she replied, followed by a curtsey.

Taking a Hold of Rainer's hand the princess guided them both to the center where everyone was dancing. There, she began to spin as she lifted her hands, swiftly moving them to the rhythm of the music. Her gown flowed with every turn. The King clapped and tapped his foot on the ground as he went in circles around his daughter. The dance routine was followed for the next few minutes, proceeding forward and then counterclockwise.

The laugh was in her eyes, in the way her face transformed into that vision of relaxed bliss and unrestrained delight. Rainer watched his daughter, she was happy. "Just the sound of her gales, her chortles, her giggles, is sufficient to haul me far far away from my worries and the tension of being king," Rainer thought.

That laughter and smile soon faded as she stopped dancing. She stared behind her father, confused the king glanced over his shoulder before turning his full body towards them. The chief and his son were making their way to the festivity. Rainer looked down at his daughter, whose light had dwindled from her eyes, tension burying in.

"Don't worry my sky angel. I'll speak to him right away."

Sera nodded as she fidgeted with her fingers.

"Hey!", Rainer called out as he took steps towards the chief. They again embraced each other in a hug "Come let us have a drink, We need to talk."

"Oh you sound serious", the chief replied, "Nothing a good wine can't unwind", he said with a burst of good laughter and a pat on Rainer's back. They proceeded to sit at one of the tables, servants instantly arrived to serve them.

And then there she was cradling the baby in her arms once again. The woman Sera had seen inside the chief's cottage home. She stepped out into the light. She was blond from root to tip
all married into long flowing locks. She had soulful blue eyes as bright as any glacier yet so very warm. Her pale skin was the silk of white rose petals. Her lace gown was long, trailing behind her and she was adorned with gold jewelry.
Acer who stood beside her, looked up at her. Her warmth radiated from her smile as she glanced down at him. She then gently placed her hand against his cheek, caressing it with the most loving care.

"Oh! That's his mom."

The chief's wife gracefully walked away holding her newborn, leaving Acer to stand alone. She proceeded to sit by her husband with a little distance between them, letting the men settle their dispute in privacy.

Sera's eyes kept darting towards the boy who stood alone. Other children only waved at him as they passed by but no one truly dared to or wanted to invite him to play and dance.

"If no one dared to then I will", Sera marched up to the boy.

"Hey."

Acer's eyes widened as he looked from Sera to the table his parents were sitting at.

"He-hello," he uttered.

She leaned in close to his face. Admiring every feature of him. She beamed, "You are to be my guardian, you know", she admitted.

"I am? But my father said I wasn't allowed to," Acer reminded, unsure how wise her confession was.

She stepped to the side and leaned into his ear, whispering, "My father is king and he is convincing your papa how great of an idea it will be."

"Really?", Acer asked as little excitement built inside him.

She stepped back and looked at him, nodding.

"Now Acer, what are you?", she asked as she placed one foot in front of the other, circling him. She clasped her hand behind her back as curiosity played in her eyes. She scoured for every little marking her new guardian had. From bruises to scars, from freckles to moles. From how clean he appeared now to when she first met him. From his height and slim body to his blonde hair and green eyes. She was trying to imagine him older and how much that would play in how well he could protect her. "He won't be tall as far as I can tell. Quite slim but nothing food can't fix- unless he has a fast metabolism then that will have no fixing. He isn't ideal physically but I'm sure he will do just fine-"

"I am a lion and a wolf."

Her thoughts were cut off as she heard him mention two animals. "I'm sorry did you just say a lion and a wolf?"

Sera stuttered as if that was impossible. " It can't be. None of the books I've read have ever mentioned a shapeshifter with more than one animal."

Acer smiled. "Well, there's only been three people in all of history to carry more than one spirit animal."

"Who?!" Sera asked practically shouting in disbelief.

"If I recall correctly, the son of the first shapeshifter, my great great grandfather and now me," Acer responded.

Sera's jaw fell wide open as she sniggered. "That's Incredible! I have to see this."

Acer took a step back as slight fear crept on him. He crossed his arms and avoided eye contact. "No sorry, I don't think that's a good idea. At least not yet and definitely not here."

Sera noticed how uncomfortable her guardian soon became and she didn't want to push it any further and lose his trust. "Oh, that's alright!", she shook it off playfully, "You don't have to now or ever, honestly."

Silence lingered. Acer was shutting down and she had to think fast.

"Would you like to dance with me!" she asked.

Acer slowly peeked at her and smiled. "Yes."

Sera began to dance around him, making eye contact as she twirled and skipped. Acer was too shy at first, looking away every time he met her gaze. However, it didn't last long, her giggle and playfulness warmed Acer's soul and he couldn't help but begin to delight in it as well. He wasn't much of a dancer and so his movement was bare down to just the clapping of his hands while his head moved in fondness to Sera's choreography.

At the table where the king and chief sat, was a brief silence. The chief pondered the favor that was asked of him. He wasn't quite convinced. "As my king and most trusted friend, I have entrusted you with who and what my son is since the moment we have come to discover it. It's considered an abomination to our people to have more than one spirit animal. How can your mind, soul, and heart be divided into two creatures? How can you decide between the pride and strength of a lion and the devotion and playfulness of a wolf? His mind will always be divided, and when it comes to making harsh decisions, he will suffer direly."

"That's something we can surely work on-"

"Even now at his young age, he has conflicted emotions when it comes to the pupils in his faction. One day he despises them and is convinced he's all-powerful and superior to them, and the following day he yearns for play and to feel included. That's his lion and wolf internal battle."

King Rainer realized how difficult the situation truly was. As much as he wanted to let this go it had become something crucial to the kingdom. They were talking about the future chief of the Salix people. "Someone with conflicted minds is not fit to rule as chief of this clan." For the future of the kingdom, Rainer must forbid his succession.

"You're wife gave birth to a child. A girl did she not?", Rainer asked.

The chief nodded, "Yes she did."

"As far as I have been informed by you, your son's mindset is complete chaos, and so forth isn't able to succeed as a chief."

The chief eyes widened as the king's words struck him deeply.

"Has your daughter shown any signs of this-", King Rainer wiggled his fingers as he furrowed his eyebrows, trying to find the proper words to Acer's predicament. "infirmity?"

The chief shook his head, "No, not at all your majesty."

Rainer rested his chin on his palm, glaring at the chief. He was a very kind king but when it came to the well-being of his kingdom, a distinct side of him was displayed. "What's her animal?"

"At this age is very difficult to tell what it could be but she's showing the characteristics of her maternal side, the wolf. But time will inform us."

Rainer's head slowly nodded. He picked up a glass of his liquor and gulped it down. "Her animal brings no difference to me. She has one and that's all that matters. She's still very young and has a long way to go withal she shall be your successor."

"Sir! We've never had a woman lead the clan," the Salix's chief nails dug into the wooden table as shock and rage suffocated him.

Rainer grinned as he eyed side the chief. "The world is changing my old friend. So shall the patriarchy rule."

The chief laid back on his chair in disbelief. Aware of how such change can throw off the tradition and balance of his people. "There has to be a way", he whispered to himself.

Rainer on hearing his words, spoke up, "There is a way," he said while pouring himself another glass.

"How?", the chief asked. Completely hopeless.

"Give me your son. Let him train with my men. They will teach him how to focus his mind and strength on the true target. He will learn discipline and routine. He will find a purpose."

"And what's that purpose?"

"My daughter, the future queen of Astorah. He will become her guardian."

"How can you be so sure this will work?", the chief asked as he rubbed his temples in frustration.

"Your son is longing for an objective, a goal, for a meaning. He needs his mind to focus on something- on someone and I believe my daughter can be the solution he most desires."

"I don't think your daughter is up for that task", the chief stated.

"Are you sure?", Rainer questioned as he gestured towards Sera and Acer, who were dancing and chuckling.

The chief was awestruck at witnessing how happy his son had become.

Rainer's eyes darted at the chief. His intense stare was so profound it even made the chief feel unsteady in his seat.

"Let me turn your son into the man you wish him to be, Now, will you let your son travel back with me to Easbai?"