The Forgotten Luna by Cassandra M

LADESSA.

"This is your room from now on, Adessa." The King's voice came from behind me.

I slowly turned around to curtsy before him.

"Good morning, Father." I almost said, "My King," and I was glad I was able to catch myself as I wanted to make a good impression.

He nodded but remained in his spot while I continued to smile warmly at him.

"This room is for me?" I asked.

"Yes." He replied before he motioned with one hand. "Come here."

One man approached him and handed him a beautiful crown encrusted with clusters of small gemstones. It was sparkling, and just looking at it made my heart thud loudly.

"This is a ceremony that should be witnessed by our people, but allow me to be selfish and have this moment alone with you. I will give you a grand coronation the moment you settle with a mate."

I bit my bottom lip. I almost got teary-eyed with his words, but the last part made me worry again.

"Kneel down, Princess Adessa. Remember that the only time you will kneel before me is whenever I put a crown on your head or bless you for whatever reason that may arise."

My heart kept thudding loudly.

I have two options: either refuse the crown and run away or accept my royal fate.

I chose the latter.

I lowered onto my knees, but I kept my head straight, not blinking as the King placed the crown onto my head. I thought it was heavy, but I didn't feel any pressure at all. Instead, it clung to my hair and head as if it belonged there.

Kingdom. You are given an irrevocable absolution for all the crimes you committed as long as you remain part of the Royal family."

He knew.

knew I didn't want this life, and he was using my crimes to bond me to his

"You may stand now."

I mumbled as I opened my eyes

and I could see his eyes shining, but his expression remained stoic. "This

how to respond to that, so I simply

have a good sleep?" He

room I was in last night was more than enough. But

head, and his expression remained poker. "This was already 20 years late. So maybe this is not enough for all the things

missed a lot, and yet you're giving me away..." I

the Royal Games

straight ahead, a few feet away from us. I should ask her to teach me how not to

have nothing to be afraid of. If no one can pass the test, you will remain unmated. But we will not

me know

cut me off right away. He placed his hands on his back and began walking. "Follow me. I will show

can do that, Father. You don't have to." I uttered

only thing I can do for you." The words were spoken softly, and as much as I didn't want to entertain the emotions, I couldn't deny

in

eyes widened as I slowed down, but I kept my

will always wait for you, no matter what. So, never run unless you're running for your life. Never run after

Many clothes and shoes were already lined up

overnight

the regular packs, where

the territory, the

could become