As we stepped into the palace foyer, an even larger and more ornate door greeted us. One of the guards led us down a long corridor, then opened another door, revealing the throne room in all its splendor. Apart from the king, a few guards, and his advisor, the room was empty. The throne itself was enormous, its arms adorned with branches reminiscent of an oak tree, as if nature itself were seated upon it. The room was alive with vibrant, colorful plants that shimmered in the light.
The previous king, Lord Hagwin, had been succeeded by his son, who was three years older than me, barely twenty-two. His golden blonde hair fell over his shoulders and down to his waist. His cheekbones were sharp, his shoulders broad, and his hazel eyes were a stark contrast to Ash's sparkling blue ones.
Once again, he was in my thoughts.
A young king… just like my brother would have been if he had been crowned that night.
As we approached the king, Lia and I curtsied. He looked at us with a curious, slightly puzzled expression. That's when I realized we weren't dressed like princesses, but rather like ordinary commoners.
"Lord Thalion, this is my sister, Lia, and I—" I began.
"And you are Aeryn, from Valeithor. Fairies are rarely seen around here, especially not from the royal family. I have heard the news," he replied firmly.
"I seek your help," I said.
"The crown binds me, so it is my duty to provide refuge as long as I can. This is Eliondar, my advisor. He has extensive experience with dark creatures. Perhaps he can help you reclaim the crown as well," the king continued.
Eliondar reminded me of Lavern: older, with long, pointed ears and silver hair, carrying an air of wisdom and authority.
"From ancient times, many books have survived, detailing the old kings and the crown. Perhaps, with the help of the other rulers, we could forge a new one—or locate the original," he explained.
"I thought it was impossible to create a new one," I said, my voice heavy with hopelessness.
"There was once a precedent. When the realm of the nymphs had not yet been established, they joined as the sixth kingdom alongside the other five."
"I hope it won't be necessary to create a new one, for that requires all six kings to be present…" Eliondar added, his concern evident.
The merfolk kingdom had not been seen for decades. They were inactive in the council and had chosen to remain neutral.
"Even locating it will be challenging, considering the ritual itself takes time to complete," the advisor said gravely.
"Of course, you will have accommodations in the castle, as will your companions. Tomorrow morning we will begin the ritual. Until then, we will gather what is needed. One of my guards will lead you to your rooms," the king assured us.
"We are very grateful, Your Majesty," I said, relieved. Luckily, I could trust in Thalion's kindness; the elves were a loyal and honorable people. The guard appeared, and with a final curtsy, we left the throne room.
Igni, Lavern, and Lia were given a room at the far end of the right wing, while I had a room at the corridor's end, directly across from Ash's.
Stepping into my own room, I was struck by its beauty. A massive oak bed dominated the center, beside it a wide, open window that spanned almost the entire wall. The fireplace was intricately carved, and a chandelier of crystals sparkled above.
I barely had time to admire it, though. I collapsed onto the bed and immediately fell into a deep sleep.