THE SHADOW BOUND CROWN

Lysara led Aurelia through the winding paths of the Safael Garden, the largest and most breathtaking of the castle's many gardens. Under the moonlight, the leaves shimmered with a soft glow, and the cascading water of the great fountain hummed a soothing melody. The fragrance of jasmine and lavender mingled in the air, adding an intoxicating charm to the moment.

Aurelia trailed her fingers over the petals of a white rose, her lips curling in an appreciative smile. "It's beautiful," she murmured, her voice tinged with awe. "Back in Icevire, it's all ice and snow. Cold winds, frozen lakes, and endless storms. This…" She paused, inhaling deeply as if trying to capture the essence of Safael and take it back with her. "This is warmth."

Lysara, standing a few paces away, watched as Aurelia moved gracefully through the garden, her hands brushing along the hedge of lilacs as though savoring every sensation. Her appreciation was genuine, and for a brief moment, Lysara found herself watching the princess more than the scenery.

Aurelia suddenly turned with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "I think I've finally found something prettier than me." She gestured toward the shimmering water of the fountain before flicking her gaze back to Lysara, her lips quirking into a smirk. "Are you jealous of that fact?"

Lysara scoffed, folding her arms. "Hardly. If anything, I'm surprised you can admit something is more beautiful than yourself."

Aurelia laughed, the sound light and teasing. "I'm full of surprises." She moved to the edge of the fountain and dipped her fingers into the cool water, swirling it absentmindedly. "Come sit," she said, patting the stone ledge beside her.

Lysara hesitated before stepping forward and taking a seat, keeping a careful distance between them.

Aurelia observed her closely before speaking. "I have questions."

Lysara sighed. "You always do."

"Tell me about your childhood," Aurelia pressed, resting her chin on her palm as she studied her.

Lysara glanced up at the night sky, her fingers grazing the hilt of the dagger strapped to her thigh beneath her gown. "It was filled with training," she answered simply.

Aurelia arched a brow. "That's it?"

Lysara exhaled slowly. "My teacher, Sakael, trained me in the way of the sword. He taught me discipline, how to fight, how to strategize. It was rigorous, but I had no choice. It was necessary."

"Necessary for what?"

Lysara turned her gaze to Aurelia, her expression unreadable. "To survive."

Aurelia frowned slightly but did not push further on that subject. Instead, she asked, "And your powers?"

Lysara hesitated before answering. "I have telekinesis and healing abilities."

Aurelia blinked in surprise. "Healing? That's unexpected. You don't seem like the nurturing type."

Lysara smirked. "I'm not."

"And that's all?" Aurelia pressed, tilting her head as if she sensed something was left unsaid.

Lysara looked away. "That's all I care to share."

Aurelia hummed thoughtfully, watching her with sharp eyes before shifting the topic. "And what about your family?"

Lysara stiffened slightly, and Aurelia noticed.

"My sister is the only one I truly care for," Lysara admitted, her voice softer than before. "She is kind, intelligent, and everything a queen should be. I support her, always. And my younger brother well you've met him."

"And the rest?"

Lysara scoffed. "My half-siblings are nuisances, grasping for power that isn't theirs to take. My father…" she trailed off, shaking her head. "I despise politics, but I must take part in them to ensure the safety of those I love."

Aurelia nodded, watching the way Lysara's hands clenched into fists before she deliberately relaxed them. "It sounds like a lonely existence."

Lysara gave her a sharp look. "It's what it is."

Aurelia sighed, standing up. "Come, you need to escort me back before your dear father suspects I've been kidnapped."

Lysara rolled her eyes but stood as well, leading Aurelia through the winding paths of the garden and toward the visitors' quarters. The walk was quiet, yet not uncomfortable. The moonlight cast their shadows long against the castle walls, and the distant hoot of an owl filled the silence.

As they reached Aurelia's door, the princess turned with an amused glint in her eyes. "So, we tour the kingdom tomorrow?"

Lysara sighed but nodded. "If you get permission from my royal father."

Aurelia smirked. "Oh, he won't deny me."

Lysara rolled her eyes. "Goodnight, Aurelia."

Before she could turn, Aurelia leaned forward and placed a soft, fleeting kiss on her cheek.

Lysara froze, her breath catching in her throat.

"Goodnight, Lysara," Aurelia said with a smirk, stepping into her quarters and closing the door behind her.

Lysara remained still for a moment before shaking her head, touching her cheek absentmindedly. "Infuriating woman," she muttered before turning and walking away into the shadows of the castle.