Lyra's POV
A news had come, one that would either be greeted with great joy or serve as the worst nightmare for others. I think that's what news bring though.
For me, it was a complex brew of both.
The royal King's mating ceremony had been cancelled.
A part of me, the part that dreaded the relentless scrutiny, the whispers behind raised hands, and the weight of a thousand eyes, was relieved. Yet, there was another part, one that had secretly yearned for the pomp and splendor, the chance to be seen, truly seen, by someone who might look past the titles and the gowns.
I stood by the window, the cool breeze of the evening whispering through the leaves, carrying with it the scent of jasmine and a tinge of the coming rain. It was as if nature itself was in a state of contemplation, mir
