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.

of Absalom, I declare and confirm you, Princess Adessa, as the youngest Royal of our Kingdom. You are given an irrevocable absolution for all the crimes you committed as

He knew.

didn't want this life, and he was using my

"You may stand now."

I mumbled as I opened my eyes and

could see his eyes shining, but his expression remained stoic. "This Kingdom is also yours,

respond to that, so I simply nodded my head

you have a good sleep?" He diverted to a

was in last night was more than enough. But this bedroom might be over the

remained poker. "This was already 20 years late. So

you're giving me away..." I didn't hide the pain

Royal Games with you." He

gaze, but she remained looking straight ahead, a few feet away from us. I should ask her to teach me how not to get rattled by the King or any of the royalties. "She

can pass the test, you will

let me know what kind

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

I uttered those

you." The words were spoken softly, and as much as I didn't want to entertain the emotions, I couldn't deny they did caress a part of my soul. "Of course. I would love that, too." I

doesn't run and is never in a hurry."

I slowed down, but I kept my

So, never run unless you're running for your life. Never run

within the suite, revealing a massive walk-in closet. Many clothes and shoes

they prepare this overnight while

the regular

the Royals

become the