The Duke's Bastard

Chapter 1: The Journey to Bellacrest

Is it alright to let memories fade?

Is it alright to embrace the act of forgiveness?

Is it alright to love once more?

As I search for answers, sometimes I can't help but fear falling and drowning in your gaze.

-

"Are we there yet?" A boy of 13 years of age inquired, his voice tinged with a mixture of impatience and trepidation. He sat in a small, weathered carriage, the wood creaking softly as it journeyed onward, drawn by a snow-white horse.

The carriage was on a trip, on a journey to a certain place in the Cryilld Kingdom. A place the boy's blue eyes have never seen before.

A place he didn't want to go too. A place that stirred a silent dread within his heart.

"Don't worry, Master Lucas. We'll be there soon." Reassured an older man named Walter, his voice gentle and composed. He was a servant with kind demeanor.

Lucas sighed, a weariness settling over him like a shroud. The boy was exhausted. It has been another long day in this long journey.

If there was any glimmer of solace, it was that today will surely be the last one on this journey. Lucas wasn't a fan of sitting in one place for too long, he couldn't wait to get off this carriage.

The old man's voice broke the silence, tinged with a touch of sorrow. "I fear your father, Duke Aldridge, won't be there to greet you. He is a very busy man. But don't worry, other family members will be there to welcome you."

Lucas mused silently, a bitter smile ghosting his lips.

My father and other family members, huh? How funny. In my mind, the only family member I ever had was my dear mother.

-

And then, it came into view: the magnificent estate of Duke Aldridge Lucian von Devereaux, located in the town of Bellacrest. The mansion stood like a grand sentinel amidst sprawling, manicured gardens and towering ancient oaks. It looked as imposing as it looked grand.

Lucas's mouth fell open in awe. He had never beheld anything so grand, so opulent, especially not in the humble village he came from.

Is this place really...real? I can't believe it.

The mansion was a sprawling marvel of architectural grandeur, its tall, ornate windows glinting in the late afternoon sun, and its stone walls adorned with ivy that climbed like nature's embroidery.

As the carriage passed through the grand wrought-iron gates, the servant Walter turned to Lucas, his voice filled with a mixture of pride and reverence.

"This, Master Lucas, is Devereaux Hall," he said, gesturing with a sweep of his hand. "Built over three centuries ago, it has stood as a beacon of your family's legacy. Every stone, every archway tells a story. The gardens you see have been cultivated by generations, and the great hall inside has hosted countless gatherings of nobles and dignitaries from around the Kingdom."

Lucas gazed in wonder as they approached the entrance, where intricate carvings adorned the massive oak doors, each panel a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The servant continued, his voice softening.

"I know this must be very overwhelming, but try your best to accept that this place will be your home from now on."

Home? This place is going to be my home? The Devereaux Hall?

As they drew closer, Lucas couldn't help but feel a pang of both anticipation and apprehension. The mansion was a world apart from everything he had known.