ch: 12
The seasons had shifted, and the once-bright skies of spring had given way to the golden hues of autumn. In the few months since her arrival, Lyra had grown accustomed to the castle’s grand halls and bustling life, though she still felt like an outsider among the royal family
She had spent much of her time with Olivia, who had taken on the role of her protector and confidante, and Alaric, who continued to reassure her with his steady presence. Elian’s flirtatious antics and lighthearted jokes had become a source of comfort, though his teasing often made her blush
But life at the castle wasn’t without its challenges. Fiona had taken a particular interest in Lyra, though whether it was out of genuine curiosity or a desire to test her limits remained unclear. Their encounters were often sharp, with Fiona’s biting remarks leaving Lyra unsure of how to respond
Alan, on the other hand, had grown more brazen in his behavior. Though he had been reprimanded by Iris during that fateful dinner, his lingering gazes and sly comments toward Lyra hadn’t ceased. It was clear he enjoyed toying with her unease
One crisp afternoon, Lyra sat in the castle gardens, her thoughts drifting as she gazed at the falling leaves. The air was cool, carrying the scent of earth and the last remnants of summer blooms.
elian
“You’ve been quiet lately.”
She turned to find Elian leaning against a nearby tree, his easy smile in place.
elian
“Something on your mind?”
Nia solis/lyra
“It’s nothing. I just… I still don’t remember much about my past. Being here is… strange.”
Elian stepped closer, his expression softening.
elian
“You’ve adapted well, considering. Not many could survive Fiona’s sharp tongue or Alan’s… well, Alan-ness.”
He smirked, earning a small chuckle from her.
Nia solis/lyra
“Iris has been kind,”
Lyra admitted, her thoughts drifting to the calm and composed first princess
Nia solis/lyra
“And the Queen… she’s like a mother I don’t remember having.”
Elian nodded, sitting beside her.
elian
“The Queen has a way of making everyone feel at home. But,”
he added, lowering his voice conspiratorially,
elian
“don’t let that fool you. This castle has its secrets, and so does its royal family.”
Nia solis/lyra
Lyra frowned. “Secrets?”
Elian grinned but didn’t elaborate, instead leaning back on his hands and looking up at the sky.
Nia solis/lyra
“Let’s just say, if walls could talk, they’d have plenty to gossip about.”
Before Lyra could press him further, the sound of approaching footsteps caught their attention. Fiona appeared, her confident stride and sharp gaze unmistakable.
she said, her tone as crisp as the autumn air.
fiona
. “The King has summoned you. It seems he has questions about your… origin
Lyra’s heart skipped a beat. Though she had been under the protection of the royal family, the King’s attention had rarely been directed toward her. What could he possibly want now?
Elian, sensing her unease, stood and gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
elian
. “Don’t worry. You’ll be fine.”
Fiona smirked, crossing her arms.
fiona
“I wouldn’t be so sure. The King isn’t known for his patience, especially when it comes to mysteries.”
Lyra swallowed hard, her mind racing as she followed Fiona toward the castle. Whatever lay ahead, she knew this moment could change everything.
Comments
Anonymous
i am sorry i had to write 5 months
2024-11-30
0