(Aria's point of view)

I always wished this world that I lived in was just another bad nightmare. Everything here spoke of power including my spector who called themselves Angels. Even the very source, the crystals, that helps us live speak of it. Crystals grow from various plants at random moments are only owned by the royal families of each spector as they rare and difficult to acquire now days after the seperation. They provided the holder of it with immense power. Some say they could bring a person back to live.

In my childhood, I had heard of stories about there being just one kingdom, Celestia, governed by the wizards with one goal, to help each other. Now were a total of eight categorized spectors and each acquired their own unique ability including us, the Angels. As time passed, there was re-settlement and different colonies were flame of desire for power had nearly caused our destruction reignited.

Mom had told me during our "history lessons" once about the wars that broke out and the allies which were made causing Celestia to be divided into two major community systems, Black and White. Due to the fear of another era of destruction, the wizards stepped in to help solve the matters. The elder wizards came up with a plan. They organized a competition, named the Crystal Calling, every ten years to decide the ruling spector of Celestia for the coming 10 years. Every spector was to send at least one and a maximum of three teams for the Callings. Each team would consist of four members. As the Crystals were mostly owned by the royal blood, only they joined the competitions. Their task would be to protect the strongest Crystals their families owned. Mom said that it worked like a combat between the kings, preventing any further bloodshed due to war. At the end of six months after the start of the Crystal Callings, if more than one team were to survive while protecting their Crystals, the wizards would select the winner according to how powerful their Crystals were.

One other thing that my Mom used to mention about the conflict. White represents those spectors who have power which consists mostly of spiritual manifestation. Compared to spectors from Black which have the most elements of having less spiritual ability even though our strength comes out magnified, White spectors are really dangerous. They can pull off all kinds of tricks like the wizards and they never think emotionally. They have almost no link to emotions and just act based on their instinct for survival.

However, they have a really bad weak spot. As they are made mostly of spiritual abilities they need something to ground themselves. They get this by stealing some from others. Like Death, they need frsh blood to survive and Shifters, they survive by feeding off of emotions.

Now imagine if a child was to be born of the blood Black and White. Of course the first generation won't be as effective against the thirst for their needs due to the strong force of White. But imagine if they were to prefect it somehow and get the perfect balance, the power that would be in their hands would even frighten the wizards which govern us away.

Mom used to tell me all about these Callings, about how she had to participate but she kept telling me one thing at the end of our lessons. She said, "It won't help. It only suppressed what is going to happen. In time, you will know but for now be strong Aria."

I never knew why Mom used to mention about this to be constantly. Back then, I never knew how important it was to know about this.

Side note : Summary of Spectors

Angels (Black)

Kingdom - Angelina

This species only takes on their names based on their ability to grow angel-like wings. As their wings can be hidden, the best way to identify them would be by reflecting light into their eyes which would cause their eyes to glow red in colour. They are known to have a lot of spiritual energy in them which cannot be used as they do not have the ability to access this source of energy due to some genetic complications.

Devils (White)

Kingdom - Esteria

At first impression, you might be convinced they belong to the demon species or vice-versa due to their similar eye color, however, their behavior is very dark at nature. Their desire to hurt others sometimes drives them insane. They are well-known for their abundant spiritual energy which allows them to cast spells like the wizards. However, the spells they can cast are very limited in terms of efficiency and power.

Demons (Black)

Kingdom - Luna

This species takes on the name due to their demon-like razor claws and their immense and deathly strength. However, this ability comes with a price. Unlike devils, demons do not have an abundant spiritual source and hence their ability ends up tapping into their supply of life source which results in them having shorter life spans. It is known that they are able to live longer if they are able to find a source of spiritual energy which they can use. Their eyes are of an unusual shade of blue like the devils which make them look innocent.

Death (White)

Kingdom - Destine

As their title says it, this species is known for their ability to call death upon others. They are a type of mythical creatures we used to know as Vampires. They have almost the same ability as Demons ,and just like them, they have almost the same weakness as they need fresh blood to survive. Due to the ability they gain from the blood, they are known as one of the deadliest creatures.

Fairies (Black)

Kingdom - Rith

Merfolk (Black)

Kingdom - Melody

Shifters (White)

Kingdom - Lesta

Synths (White)

Kingdom - Sier

Wizards (None)

Kingdom - Zeath

2: First Ball

I ran. As fast as I could, away from the dark forest. I knew what I had seen. It was one of the Death that had set his eyes on me. I was sure of it, the way I had seen his fangs reflect the moonlight clearly. His blue eyes increased the intensity of fear.

Their actions were too obvious. They knew of my existence and I knew what that meant. I ran, not in any particular direction. Just following my instincts and hopefully I would run into him. Into his sheltered embrace which kept me warm and safe all the time.

But I knew my actions were of no use as they were gaining on me.

 

 

Music began to fill in the background, eliminating the silence that was there just a while ago. I stood at the balcony of my room as I tried to grasp the fact that I was finally allowed to participate in social events.

After all this time being stuck in a palace with these barbaric guardians, I was finally allowed some freedom. Somehow, this just made me feel odd. I was not used to this liberty and I considered there being a trap. But having a little fun wouldn’t hurt. A sudden tap on my door distracted my thoughts for a while.

“May I come in Princess?” said a playful voice.

Eric. Well he might have been the only exception in the palace, though our friendship started only a year ago when he finally decided to give me a chance.

“Come on Eric, you do not need to surprise me like that, the door’s always open for you.” I laughed at his unusual chirpiness.

As he walked into my room my heart thudded and stuttered. He looked dazzling. I smiled at him trying to fight back the blush that crept up my cheeks.

“See, told you that I looked too good.” Eric said with a smirk. He knew. I almost gave up the fight with my heart.

“And its that attitude of yours that will cause you to loose your only good aspect.” I pointed out with a smile.

“Alright, Alright. Now, lets go. People are getting restless to see my beautiful cousin at her first ballroom event.”

“Do you have to escort me? I mean its just the new year ball. I would be fine by myself and many other girls were looking forward to see the crown prince of Angelina escort them. This will just attract a lot of unwanted attention. This is not really what I want. What if-”

“Calm down Aria. I just want you to enjoy your first ball. It will be okay, you don’t have to worry about anything. Just trust me, okay.” Eric said gazing into my eyes. The light in his eyes looked so genuine, how could I not give in.

“Alright. Lets go.”

I took his hand and let him lead the way to the ballroom. As the music got louder, I wished I had never requested Aunt Rosalie for a chance like this. I mean, I was okay with social outings but what I dreaded the most was a gathering where I had to face all my relatives.

I felt so sick that it made me think of my family. Nine years ago, I was the sister of the Crown Prince Rick, and the youngest child of the Queen and King of Angelina. However, my entire direct family was killed in an accident while coming home from a ball event. What made me made was that they presumed it was just the bad weather that had caused their death. An unspoken feeling had told me that it was not all there was to the story.

From then, Eric’s family took control of the royal bloodline and sheltered me just because they pitied me. After that, life just became miserable. Being surrounded by most of the people who disregarded my existence.

I could hear my erratic heartbeat as they neared the entrance of the ball. It had been a whole nine years since I had seen any other relatives expect for Eric’s family and by how Eric’s parents had treated me, I was sure things would not go well.

As I steps towards the entrance, the lights and the festive music overwhelmed me. I had only heard about these balls from Ress, Eric’s sister, but never imagined it to be so grand. Just by the sight of youngsters and the elders from every corner of Angelina enjoying themselves made me feel alive for a while. Even if just for a moment, it felt like I was free, from everything.

“Well, that didn’t take much to bring a smile for my beloved princess.” Eric commented with a smile.

As expected, we had grabbed the attention of almost every guest that had arrived that evening from the moment we took the first steps into the hall.

“You have no idea how long they had to wait to see the daughter of the former King and Queen of Angelina.” Eric whispered as if trying to calm me.

After a few stares and smiles towards our direction, the atmosphere was back to normal. Eric then took my hand and led me towards a group of people who stood apart from the normal crowd. They wore the royal seals on their hands and were mostly made up of elders. I sighed. Oh great! The very first people he wants to introduce to me is them!

“This is Aria, the daughter of the most beloved Queen and King of Angelina.” Eric said introducing me as I curtsied.

“Well, here is our little Aria. It has been a really long time, hasn't it?” One of elders asked in the most intimidating manner.

“Y-Yes it has.” I responded as I picked up my courage to look straight into his eyes. The lights made his eyes glow in the most dangerous colour of red that I had ever seen. I had to be careful.

“Your eyes are really like your mother’s. They show an unusual hint of purple while they glow, don’t they.” The elder asked in more of an accusing manner rather than a question.

I had no reply for this. I had heard those comments before. Yes, it was true that my eyes were too unusual for an Angel’s but they did not mean anything like an act of betrayal. As if sensing my anger, Eric’s hand tighten around mine.

“Can I have your attention please. I have an important announcement to make” It was King Aaron. I had to admit his timing was pretty good. I was already getting sick of the conversation.

King Aaron stood in the centre of the room waiting for everyone to get his signal. After everyone had gathered around, King Aaron continued his speech.

“As all of you know, it has been ten years since the last Crystal Callings, and now it is time to choose a new winner and ruler of Celestia. This time we will not lose to those Merfolks. This coming decade will be ours to rule!”

The crowd cheered as King Aaron made the announcement, as if he had already declared their victory.

 It was time for the Callings again. They would make me participate even if I didn’t want to. I had anticipated that much. Why waste a precious life of theirs if they had a back up for one.

As Uncle Aaron proudly showcased the Crystals, I leaned back against the wall, sighing. When will this ever end? My thoughts were interrupted by a strange gaze as I had turned to look at the crowd. A pair of blue eyes just completely froze me as I kept on looking into them.

He looked at me as though he was studying me. My heart drummed faster as I felt the whole world just disappear except for us. A blush crept up my cheeks as seconds passed, being entrapped in this trance.

Even though his raven-black hair slightly covered his eyes, they seemed like they were looking right into my soul. I averted my eyes and focused my attention on Uncle Aaron as I tried to steady my breaths.

A Demon. What was he doing here? How did I miss his presence? He was standing right beside Aunt Rosalie. He must be her guest. But he did not look any older than I did.

I waited for a few seconds and chanced another look at him. Now with his ocean-blue eyes on King Aaron, I studied him intently.There was no word that could describe him. I could even feel his radiance despite being meters away. He was just perfect. Even Eric failed in comparison.

Fortunately, my dreadful fantasies did not last much longer as King Aaron announced the continuation of the ball. I looked away just for a second and he disappeared. No sight of him after that. It was as if he was just another unrealistic, self-deluding fantasy that my brain seemed to come up with to escape this wretched reality.

The traditional ball dance had started in front of me as I stood leaning against the wall, waiting for Eric to finish his talk with his father. Knowing the dance would not help me distract myself form creating more fantasies, I looked down and started to trace circles with with the tip of my toes.

“Aria, are you okay?” Eric asked with concern showing in his eyes as he appeared in front of me.

“Yeah. How did it go?” I asked with a weak smile.

“Father said he wanted us to join the Callings. He said we can use the remaining time before the Callings to prepare and it shouldn't be a problem for us to be able to fight well.” Eric stated with a hint of irritation.

“Yeah right. It shouldn’t be a problem.”I snorted. Was Uncle Arron that desperate to win this Callings that he had to include his own own children who were untrained and had a chance of being killed?

“Well, you better be ready to dance cause I think there’s someone headed in this direction.” Eric whispered in my ears before walking away towards a group of girls who were trying to catch his attention. Yeah right. As if anyone would want to dance with me who did not even know a single person besides the royal family. I’m pretty sure he just wanted to-

“Excuse me, Princess Aria. May I have a dance with with you.” A melodious brought me into a daze for a while before I could turn to face its owner.

It was him. My heart sprang into a frenzied rhythm as I found myself being captivated by those same eyes again. I felt a blush take its place as I forced myself to nod. Maybe I wasn’t so delusional after all.

He gently held my hand in his and led me towards the middle of the ballroom. My cheeks flushed as I his fingers soft around mine. Once we reached, he slid his arm around my waist. My eyes found his when we began to move, one step after another. Slowly easing into the steady beat of the music. I felt his breathing turn uneven as we got closer. The proximity between us made every action impossible to go unnoticed. It felt like it was impossible for us to stop dancing or look away from each other.

“May I know your name?” I spoke in a whisper.

“Derrick. Derrick Delany.” He answered.

His blue eyes were full secrets as if provoking me to get answers right now. I knew this night had to end and I would have to go back to the old gloomy life in the end. But it wouldn’t hurt to let myself go right now.

3: The Beginning of the End

Right after the song was over, he bowed and disappeared into the crowd even before I was able to start up a conversation with him. Still dazzled, I stood frozen in the middle of the room until the next song started.

As I made my way towards a quiet corner, my eyes wondered around the room, searching for my Demon boy. I tried to conceal my silly grin as the thought passed through my mind. When did I start calling him mine? Interrupting my thoughts was the usual quirky tap from Eric.

“So, how did sir charming please you?” His confident smirk made it even more difficult for me to look into his eyes.

“I wasn’t- He just-” Oh gods, I was stammering to much.

“He was okay...”My answer just seemed to amplify the mischief in his eyes.

“Please! Anyone who saw you two dance would have agreed that you were completely flattered by him.”

A sigh escaped my lips. There was no use in arguing with him when he had that look. Plus, it wasn’t an incorrect assumption. But what upset me the most was the fact that Eric mentioned me being dazzled by him and nothing about his reaction. The last thing I wanted was to get involved in a one-sided relationship.

“Come on pretty princess, let’s go to the balcony.” Eric’s eyes seemed to darken as he spoke. As soon as I nodded he grabbed my wrist and led me towards the balcony hidden behind the curtains.
I could not help but think that there was something off about him today. Not only today but the last few days. He had never visited me and he had asked to escort me even though he knew how much I hated attention. What was strange was the fact that he had spent most of the time with me today when usually he would rather spend his time getting to know every single girl.

The almost pitch-black balcony revealed the starry sky tonight. This would have been my number one romantic spot if it weren’t for the erie silence that lingered in the atmosphere despite the fact that we were just meters away from the heart of the festival.

“Eric? What’s wrong?” I asked as we came to a stop at the edge of the balcony.

“I want you to trust me. You’ll be alright.” He whispered as if he was aware of another presence there. I didn’t know how to respond to this. What was wrong with him? I did trust him with all my heart. He had always know.

“Why are you asking-”

He shoved a knife hilt-first into my hands and with his hand over mine, he forced the knife into his lower abdominal. Before a scream found its way out, he silenced me with his hand over my mouth.

Was he a crazed suicidal prince! What was he trying to do! Kill himself? Questions after questions hammered my mind. My hand shivered violently against the cold metal hilt. I finally decided to make eye contact with him, hoping to find an answer for his bizarre behavior. Instead, I found his eye filled with guilt, sorrow and pain.

“I’m sorry” The pain was sharply evident in his voice before he let out an scream for help.
Right after his agonizing scream, the curtains of the balcony opened up as people rushed in. Gasps and sharp whispers filled my surroundings. Queen Rosalie’s scream pierced through the noise as he made her way towards Eric with King Aaron right behind her.

Cold beads layer my skin as I begin to get a grasp of the situation. I finally let go of the hit and tremors shake through my body. I force myself to look at the crowd in front of me. Out of all the shock-filled gazes, King Aaron’s hate-filled one makes me shudder.

Then it hits me- they all think I tried to kill Eric.

4: A New Hope