Chapter 4: A Crack in the Ice
Morning light entered Lilly's chamber softly, pale and cold like the kingdom itself. She had barely slept. Every sound, every shadow reminded her that she was far from home.
A knock echoed at the door.
Before she could answer, it opened.
Prince Kael stood there.
Lilly stiffened. Her hands clenched at her sides. "Your Highness," she said quietly.
"You don't need to bow," Kael replied. His voice was calm, but distant. "Not here."
She looked up, surprised.
He gestured toward the window. "Come. You should see the palace grounds."
They walked in silence through frost-covered gardens. The trees were bare, yet strong, standing against the cold winds. Lilly hugged her arms around herself.
"You hate this place," Kael said suddenly.
She looked at him. "No… I'm just not used to freedom."
That made him stop.
"Freedom?" he repeated.
"I was locked in a tower," Lilly said softly. "This palace feels cold, but at least the sky is open.
Kael's eyes darkened. "Then you understand," he said. "This crown may shine, but it is heavier than chains."
For the first time, Lilly saw it clearly. The weight he carried. The loneliness behind his cold expression.
"I don't hate you," she said carefully. "I'm just afraid."
Kael looked at her for a long moment. Then, quietly, "Fear keeps people alive."
As they walked on, the distance between them felt… smaller.
For the first time since the curse was placed upon her, Lilly felt something unfamiliar stir in her heart.
Hope.