Elara’s POV
Kylan offered me his arm as we continued along the garden path. “The roses bloom late here, but when they do, the entire path smells like moonlight.”
I took his arm lightly, careful not to put too much weight on my injured leg. “It’s beautiful,” I said, glancing at the heavy crimson blooms that lined the stone path. “I’ve never seen flowers this color before.”
Kylan smiled. “They were planted by Lucian’s mother centuries ago. She believed red roses kept the beast at bay on full moon nights. Old superstition, but the garden has stayed.”
We walked slowly. The morning air was cool and sweet. Birds called from the high hedges. For the first time since waking in this palace, I felt something close to calm.
Kylan pointed ahead. “That building with the open arches is the training
