(Astrid’s POV)
My name is Astrid—bodyguard to Duchess Selena Everthrone, and captain of the Everthrone Marksman Unit.
I have a younger sister named Vine. We were once sves, living a life so cruel, we forgot what hope felt like.
Everything changed the day we met her.
“You two will serve me from now on. Alright?”
So beautiful…
That was the first time we id eyes on Lady Selena—our savior. She bought us from a sve trader, but she didn’t look at us with pity or superiority. Instead, she smiled at us with warmth.
Though she was only four years older than me, she carried herself with the calm strength of someone far beyond her years.
I remember that smile—gentle, radiant, and kind. Not the smirk of a noble looking down on her property, but a light in the darkness. A smile that gave us hope.
Lady Selena fed us, sheltered us, and taught us how to fight. She showed us how to live with dignity.
Since then, she became our light. Our goddess. And her words became divine w.
We trained tirelessly to be useful in her eyes—hoping to stand closer to the one we adored. I showed promise with firearms. Vine had a natural gift for the sword.
Eventually, we earned our positions. We stood at her side—not just as servants, but as her bdes and shields.
But it wasn’t just duty that bound us to her.
We loved her.
Not only us—almost everyone in House Everthrone was hopelessly enamored with the Duchess. Her personal secretary, Serephina, was one of our fiercest rivals.
Every night...
Every night...
Every single night...
I find myself thinking of her. Fantasizing. My mind wanders where it shouldn't.
“ nghhmm~ L-Lady, I’m c--c-ummm~”
Still not enough. I want more. I want to feel her—completely.
And I know Vine feels the same. Why else would her sheets always be damp in the morning? That isn’t from heat or sweat.
Lady Selena is everything to us.
We would burn the world for her if she asked.
---
(Third-Person POV)
“Hmph… then let me get straight to the point. Selena—no, Duchess Selena Everthrone—join my faction and help me cim the throne.”
“…”
The Everthrone family was one of the most powerful noble houses in the Kingdom of Velmoria, alongside Houses Alistair Draven, Endmud Bckwood, and Caden Hawke—each ruling over a major region of the kingdom.
But unlike the others, House Everthrone had always chosen neutrality in the war of succession.
The reason?
Their founder, Duchess Eiradis Everthrone, detested internal conflict between nobles and believed it would only tear the kingdom apart. She swore her bloodline would never take sides.
Selena still upheld that belief.
“Princess Eveline, you know that House Everthrone has remained neutral in every succession war, don’t you?”
“I do. But I hoped… maybe you’d make an exception. For me.”
Because we’re childhood friends? Selena thought.
As much as she longed to help her old friend, she couldn’t abandon the principles she had sworn to uphold. Doing so would stain the Everthrone name forever.
“I’m sorry, Princess Eveline. I cannot accept your request. I must protect the legacy of my house,” Selena said, rising from the bed.
“…”
Eveline stayed quiet. She had expected this answer—but it still hurt.
“…I see. That’s alright. I figured as much,” she said with a forced ugh.
Selena said nothing. She didn’t want to make things worse. But deep down, her heart ached.
No matter how close they were, duty came first.
Since the day she was chosen to succeed her predecessor, Selena had vowed to protect the honor of House Everthrone until her st breath.
“…Very well then. Stay at the pace tonight. You can return to your territory tomorrow.”
“Thank you. I accept, Your Highness.”
“Hmhm.” Eveline gave a small nod.
---
The Next Morning
“I’ll be leaving now, Eveline.”
“Safe travels, my sweet Selena~”
As Selena approached her carriage, Eveline called out.
“Wait—just a second…”
She walked up to Selena, gently took her face in both hands—and then, without warning—
“Muah~”
Princess Eveline Velmoria kissed Selena. Right on the lips.
Everyone froze.
Selena’s eyes widened. Her hand flew to her lips, her face blushing furiously.
“W-What was that, Eveline?!”
Even if it was just Selena, her guards, and Eveline’s two personal maids—it was still shocking.
“Ehe~ See you soon, my darling Selena~”
And with that, Eveline turned, walking back into the pace—leaving a flustered Selena behind.
Behind her, Selena’s loyal followers radiated a dark aura—thick, ominous, and suffocating—as if the world itself was about to be devoured by their jealousy.
---
[This is my first time writing an intimate scene, so it may come off as awkward or clumsy. I’d be really happy to hear your feedback or suggestions!]
