Chapter 28

TWENTY-EIGHT

T he Tharvisian royal palace hummed with anticipation as the final preparations for the interplanetary celebration unfolded. Dravek stood at the window of his private chambers, his gaze fixed on the bustling courtyard below. Dignitaries from Earth, Xuevis, and various Tharvisian provinces arrived in ornate transports, their colorful attire a stark contrast to the sleek, silvery architecture of the palace.

His fingers absently traced the intricate patterns etched into his formal uniform—a blend of traditional Tharvisian design and modern innovations. The weight of the moment pressed upon him, far heavier than any armor he’d worn in battle.

A soft chime drew his attention. “Enter,” he called, his deep voice betraying a hint of nervousness unfamiliar to those who knew him best.

The door slid open with a whisper, revealing Vexor. His elder brother’s presence filled the room, regal and composed as always. “You summoned me, brother?”

Dravek turned, meeting Vexor’s piercing gaze. “I need your counsel,” he admitted, the words feeling foreign on his tongue.

Vexor’s eyebrow arched slightly—the closest thing to surprise he ever displayed. He crossed the room, his movements fluid and purposeful. “Speak your mind, Dravek. It’s unlike you to seek advice.”

Taking a deep breath, Dravek steeled himself. “It’s about Zora,” he began, his voice low. “I... I intend to declare my feelings for her. Publicly. At the celebration.”

Silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken thoughts. Vexor’s expression remained impassive, but his eyes held a glimmer of interest. “I see,” he said finally. “And you seek my opinion on this matter?”

Dravek nodded, uncharacteristically hesitant. “Our traditions, our position—they demand restraint. Yet I find myself compelled to act against everything we’ve been taught.” His fist clenched at his side. “Tell me, brother. Am I a fool for considering this?”

To Dravek’s surprise, a small smile tugged on the corner of Vexor’s mouth. “A fool? Perhaps. But not for the reasons you might think.” He stepped closer, placing a hand on Dravek’s shoulder. “We are taught that emotions are a weakness, that vulnerability has no place in leadership. Yet in my experience, true strength often lies in having the courage to be vulnerable.”

Dravek blinked, taken aback by his brother’s words. “You... support this decision?”

Vexor’s smile widened fractionally. “I support you, brother. And I’ve seen the changes in you since Zora Arison entered your life. You’ve grown, not just as a leader, but as a person.” He squeezed Dravek’s shoulder. “Do what feels right, not what tradition dictates. The future of Tharvis may depend on our ability to adapt and embrace new ways of thinking.”

A weight lifted from Dravek’s chest, replaced by a surge of determination. “Thank you, Vexor. Your words mean more than you know.”

As Vexor turned to leave, he paused at the door. “One piece of advice, brother. When you speak, do so from your heart. It’s there that your true strength lies.”

With those parting words, Vexor departed, leaving Dravek to contemplate the path ahead. The grand hall awaited, and with it, a moment that would change everything.

The grand hall in the palace buzzed with activity as Dravek made his way through the crowd. Delegates from three worlds mingled, their conversations a symphony of different languages and cultures coming together. He caught sight of Zora across the room, her auburn hair catching the light from the floating orbs above. She moved with grace and purpose, her presence commanding yet warm as she greeted various dignitaries.

His heart quickened at the sight of her, a reaction he once would have dismissed as weakness. Now, he embraced the feeling, drawing strength from it.

King Brakus Tharvis stood at the center of the stage, his powerful voice filling the hall as he welcomed the assembled attendees. “Today marks a new chapter in the history of our worlds,” he proclaimed. “A chapter of unity, understanding, and shared purpose.”

As his father’s speech concluded, Dravek felt a flutter of nervousness in his stomach. He pushed it aside, focusing instead on the warmth that filled him whenever he thought of Zora. This was right. This was necessary.

He ascended the steps to the podium, the eyes of three worlds upon him. Taking a deep breath, he began to speak.

“Honored and esteemed guests, people of Earth, Xuevis, and Tharvis. We stand here today on the cusp of a new era—one of unprecedented cooperation and mutual understanding between our worlds.” His voice, strong and clear, carried to every corner of the hall. “The alliances we forge today are built on the foundation of shared hopes, common goals, and the belief that together, we are stronger than we could ever be apart.”

He paused, his gaze sweeping across the audience before settling on Zora. Her blue eyes met his, curiosity and warmth radiating from them.

“Yet as we celebrate these grand alliances, I am compelled to speak of a more personal connection—one that has profoundly shaped my understanding of what true unity means.” Murmurs rippled through the crowd, but Dravek pressed on, his voice gaining strength with each word.

“Zora Arison,” he said, his tone softening as he addressed her directly. “Your courage, wisdom, and unwavering spirit have not only transformed worlds but also touched my heart in ways I never thought possible.”

Gasps and whispers erupted from the assembled dignitaries. Zora’s eyes widened, a mix of surprise and something deeper—something that gave Dravek the courage to continue.

“You have shown me the beauty of vulnerability and the strength that comes from embracing one’s true self. Through our shared trials and triumphs, you have opened my eyes to a universe far richer and more complex than I ever imagined.” He took a step forward, his gaze never leaving hers. “Today, before the representatives of three worlds, I wish to honor you not just as a leader and ally, but as the person who has given me hope for a future filled with love and possibility.”

The hall fell silent, the tension palpable as all eyes darted between Dravek and Zora.

“Zora Arison,” Dravek said, his voice resonating with emotion, “with humility and sincerity, I declare my love for you. You have become not just my partner in our shared mission, but the other half of my heart. Whatever challenges the future may hold, I wish to face them by your side—not just as allies or friends, but as two souls joined in love and purpose.”

For a moment, the silence in the hall was absolute. Then, like a wave crashing against the shore, a mixture of gasps, applause, and excited chatter erupted. Dravek stood tall, his heart pounding but his resolve unwavering.

Zora rose from her seat, her cheeks flushed but her eyes shining. She made her way to the podium, the crowd parting before her. When she reached Dravek, she took his hands in hers, a smile brighter than any star illuminating her face.

“Prince Dravek Tharvis,” she began, her voice clear and strong despite the emotion evident in her eyes. “Your words honor me deeply. Our journey has indeed been one of shared challenges and triumphs, and through it all, I’ve found in you a kindred spirit—someone who understands the call of duty but also the importance of following one’s heart.”

She squeezed his hands gently, her touch sending a warmth through him that rivaled the heat of Tharvis’s twin suns. “I, too, have come to cherish you beyond measure. Your strength, your compassion, and your willingness to grow have inspired me in ways I never expected. The love I feel for you has become as much a part of me as my love for the worlds we serve.”

A cheer went up from the audience, the joy in the room palpable. Dravek felt as though his heart might burst from happiness. He pulled Zora close, their foreheads touching in a gesture of intimacy that spoke volumes.

“What happens now?” Zora asked, a hint of uncertainty in her voice. “We’ve upended quite a few traditions today.”

Dravek turned to face her, cupping her cheek gently. “Now, we forge our own path.”