Leaves rustled peacefully. The grass beneath us moved gently with the wind, as if taunting us for what was to come so soon. We were a big group of Goldcaps, each lashing their tail in anticipation. I sharpened my sword, occasionally hearing a hiss of impatience or a mutter of worry. Would this ever end? Or would the battles continue for generations? Generations. That word sounded weird in my head. Especially after Leam rejected my confession to him. It was the second time I was rejected, yet it hurt no less. "Herael, be ready. General Rivok said he heard a Spotcap near the stream." Someone warned me, as I stood up from the grass, my heart beating in worry like before every battle. I picked up my shield from the ground, thinking: /The war has been going for ages... I wasn't there to see its beginning, but I probably won't be there to see its end.../ I sighed. /Why?/ "Get ready, Goldcaps! They're coming." Rivok announced from across the field, everyone becoming tense. Rivok was so amazing. He leaded us through every battle, despite the danger. He saved me from a Spotcap knight once. It was hard to hide that he was my crush. /But sadly, if two common knights rejected me... Then what would the general say?/ I glanced across the meadow, trying to find him. I wanted to tell him, but my legs declined moving. Was I too shy to do this? Or was it my previous experience influencing me? /No. I have to./ "General Rivok? May we speak for a moment?" I called, yet my words came out shaky and trembling. He came closer, nodding, before signaling me to follow him. "So? What is your worry?" He asked, his voice a little too calm for this situation. "I-" I started, yet my voice cut off, unable to find words. Rivok's eyes glanced at me with anticipation. "Are you scared of the battle?" He tried to guess, his voice showing disbelief. I sighed. "No! I- I just wanted to say..." I tried speaking. "You're a strong fighter. You've seen my agility in battle. I just wanted to say...I want you to be my mate." I finally said, his eyes widening slightly. After a long moment of silence, he answered: "What? Why would you want that? Focus on winning the battle, Herael! Besides, you wouldn't be my best choice. We have warriors with more skill than you." He said, lashing his tail as he walked away. I was left on the shaded meadow alone. My hands shaking, I walked back to the main field. No one wanted me. I just wanted to be loved in this cruel world and the truth also is, I've always wanted a child.
WARNING: Themes of fighting and characters losing their lives. Character on thumbnail: Rivok Characters: Herael - A golden and white Goldcap, main character, female. Leam - Mentioned, Herael's previous crush, male. Rivok - A sand-colored Goldcap, general and Herael's crush, male.
