The Gateway of Time

That night, back at Alexander's apartment, Selena couldn't sleep. Her mind kept returning to the cryptic line in the book: "Only those who remember their past can rewrite their future." The weight of those words lingered in her thoughts, stirring something deep within her.

Curiosity got the better of her. Then Selena wore the ring given by her grandmother to confirm what was happening.

Suddenly, a blinding light enveloped her, and when it faded, Selena found herself standing in a vast hall made of marble and gold. The air was warm, scented with fresh roses and burning torches. She looked down at herself and gasped she was no longer wearing her modern clothes. Instead, she was dressed in an elegant gown of deep crimson, embroidered with golden threads. Her hands trembled as she touched the fabric, and her fingers brushed against the ring, which was now glowing more brightly than before.

"Where am I?" Selena whispered, her voice echoing in the grand hall.

Before she could process what was happening, a voice called out from behind her. "Princess Helena, the council awaits your presence."

Selena turned to see a man dressed in royal attire bowing slightly before her. His expression was respectful yet expectant, as if he had known her his entire life. Confusion swept over her, but she managed a nod. Without fully understanding why, she followed the man down the long corridor, her heart pounding with each step.

As they walked, fragments of memories surfaced in Selena's mind memories that weren't hers, yet felt strangely familiar. She remembered this palace, this corridor, and even the scent of the roses. It was as if she had lived this life before, as Princess Helena of a distant kingdom.

They arrived at a grand chamber, where a group of men and women in fine robes were gathered around a large table. The man who had escorted her gestured for her to enter. "They await your guidance, Your Highness."

Selena took a deep breath and stepped forward, her mind racing. How was she supposed to guide anyone when she didn't even know where she was or what was happening? Yet, as soon as she approached the table, words flowed from her mouth as if by instinct. She spoke of alliances, trade routes, and matters of state all things she had no knowledge of moments ago.

When she finished, the council members nodded in approval, and Selena felt a wave of relief. But before she could leave the chamber, another voice rang out a familiar voice that sent shivers down her spine.

"Well spoken, Princess," the voice said smoothly. Selena turned to see a man stepping out of the shadows. His presence was commanding, and his dark eyes held a hint of something she couldn't quite place. He looked eerily similar to Alexander, yet different.

Selena's breath caught in her throat. "Who are you?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

The man smiled faintly. "Surely, Your Highness, you haven't forgotten me. I am Lord Alaric, your betrothed."

***

Meanwhile, back in the present day, Alexander woke suddenly, his heart pounding. He didn't know why, but he felt as if something had happened to Selena. He looked around the room, but she was nowhere to be seen. The book lay open on the table, and beside it, the empty box that had once held the ring.

"Selena…" Alexander whispered, fear creeping into his voice. He had to find her, but how?

Just then, he noticed faint blue sparks flickering in the air, leading toward the open window. It was as if the ring had left a trail a trail he could follow. Determined, Alexander grabbed the book and headed out, hoping it would lead him to the answers he sought and, more importantly, to Selena.