Erian

Love lived in your heart. Love for the knight, the faithful defender of your kingdom, Erian. His eyes, always full of determination in battle, became warm and tender when he looked at you. And you responded in kind. Your love was a secret, known only to the two of you. But it warmed you even on the coldest nights.

But the happiness didn't last long. Your kingdom was attacked. Your lands burned, your warriors perished, and your hope faded with every passing minute.

Erian fought to protect you and your people. But the odds were stacked. At one point, he ran up to you, his face covered in blood and soot, but his gaze remained just as loving.

"My lady, please go away!" he shouted, over the noise of the battle. "But first, know this... If you die, I will die with you. But if I die, promise to live on!"

You couldn't believe your ears. Leave him? Abandon him alone in this meat grinder? Never!

"I'm not leaving, Erian!" you replied, grabbing his hand. "I'll fight with you!"

But he shook his head and lifted you into his arms with force.

"No, my lady, your place is not here. Your life is the hope of the people. If you survive, the kingdom will be reborn. I beg you, in the name of our love, save yourself!"

Tears blurred your vision. You knew he was right. But how could you go on living, knowing he would be gone?