Golden-trimmed porcelain plates. Silver spoons encrusted with sapphires. Crystal goblets of wine that didn't spill, even with trembling maids nearby.
Alexa sat at the far end of the long dining table of House Zevarelis, to the right of Duke Altair—Alexamysa's father. Across from her sat Lucian, Ares, and Leonhart, aligned in a row with an undeniable noble presence.
> All eyes were on her. Including her father's, sharp and golden with authority.
> "Stay calm, Alexa. You're the Duke's daughter now. Even sitting must be graceful."
She took a slow breath, maintaining her posture and gaze. In this world, even the slightest slip in decorum could lead to disgrace.
> "How do you feel this morning?" asked Duke Altair, his voice calm yet deep, like ice cracking slowly.
> "Much better, Father," she replied with a small smile.
Lucian stared at her without blinking.
Ares looked suspicious, as always.
Leonhart—oh, Leonhart offered her her favorite jam, mumbling, "If you're still weak, start with something sweet."
Alexa couldn't hold back a small smile.
Her brothers… truly like her own trio of castle guards. And now, she was right in their center.
But the peaceful morning was quickly interrupted when a servant bowed deeply and announced:
> "His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince, has arrived."
Firm footsteps approached. And as Thalionric Arelthia entered the dining hall of House Zevarelis, the atmosphere shifted instantly.
His golden hair shimmered, noble attire in ivory and deep blue adorned with the royal light sigil on his chest. His face remained cold. Elegant. But his golden eyes immediately locked onto Alexa.
> "Pardon the intrusion," he said plainly. "But I must speak with Princess Alexa."
> Lucian stood. "In our home, anyone who wishes to speak with our sister must go through the three of us first."
Thalionric raised an eyebrow. "Interesting. But I believe… Princess Alexa is old enough to speak for herself."
Alexa rose slowly, cutting through the thickening tension.
> "I'll speak with him, brothers."
Her three brothers protested in unison.
> "Alexa—" "You've just recovered—" "Are you sure—"
She turned and smiled. Calm. Certain.
> "It's only a conversation. And I'm not the fragile girl you think I am."
Thalionric offered his hand—a gesture noble and respectful, but in this world, also... intimate.
Alexa touched his hand, and for a moment, the two of them stood locked in a silence only understood by those who knew this world... was not what it seemed.
---
🌙 To Be Continued...