Ambrosial Promise

Chapter 1: Starless Night

“I promise. I will protect her."

"Thank you..."

Sheira's POV

My parents left me when I was just a child, embarking on a distant journey. It's been years since they departed, with no word or sign from them. I miss you... Mom... Dad.

The children around me revel in the presence of their parents, figures who constantly engage with them, sharing laughter and love. But for me, the whereabouts of my own parents remain a mystery.

I long to experience the simple joys of a shared moment with a parent, to taste a meal lovingly prepared by their hands, to feel the warmth of their embrace, and to bask in the unconditional love only a parent can give.

"Big brother Yuri!"

Yuri turns to me, a gentle smile on his face. "Hey there, Sheira. What's on your mind?"

"Where have my parents gone?" I ask, my voice filled with longing.

Yuri's smile softens, and he reaches out to ruffle my hair. "They embarked on a journey to a far-off place."

My heart sinks. "But why didn't they take me along? Other children do everything with their parents."

Yuri's gaze is filled with warmth and understanding. "You are still young and precious, Sheira. They wanted to keep you from the hardships they may face."

A spark of hope ignites within me. "Then, you came and found me!"

Yuri's voice is filled with genuine affection. "I'm truly glad to have you in my life, Sheira."

Fate brought Yuri and me together, forging a bond that transcends bloodlines. Despite knowing I'm not his biological child, Yuri treats me with unwavering kindness, spreading joy in my life.

We share laughter, create cherished memories, and support each other like a genuine family. As a child, I knew little of the world, but with Yuri by my side, I felt protected and loved, as if I were his own.

***

Fifteen years passed and the memories of my parents' departure still haunt me. It's been years, and yet, there's been no word or sign from them. The ache of their absence lingers, a constant reminder of their love I yearn for.

"Two targets, to your left!"

I draw my sword, determination coursing through my veins. "I'm on it! Deal with the rest!"

The creatures before us are the Heians, our adversaries on this expedition beyond our kingdom's borders. For years, our kingdom has conducted these expeditions, seeking to investigate and understand the threat they pose to humanity.

I strike at the Heians with all my might, only to be met with disappointment. "What?!" my sword barely makes a scratch despite its sharpness.

How are we supposed to overcome this? The Heians are swift and elusive, their weak spots yet to be discovered. We're at a disadvantage, and the fight ahead promises to be arduous and challenging.

I need to regroup and assist my comrades. I fear their situation may be even direr than mine.

"Is everything alright?" I ask a fellow soldier.

The soldier's face is filled with concern. "Far from it! The situation is escalating!"

Our attempts to claim victory against the Heians seem futile. Our attacks only inflict minor wounds, and our sharp blades feel like toys against their resilient bodies.

"No! Please, no more!!"

The cries of fallen comrades echo in my ears, fueling my determination. Fear, brutality, tears, and screams surround me, the battlefield a haunting reminder of the horrors of war.