Chapter I : Before the storm
579 Words
The sun gently brushed the ivory towers of Auroria Castle, casting a golden glow over the royal gardens. The flowers were just beginning to open, still heavy with dew, and the morning air carried the sweet scent of blooming lilacs.
Auroria was a kingdom of contrasts. Its fertile valleys bordered towering mountains whose peaks seemed to graze the clouds. Crystal-clear rivers wound through the meadows, bringing life to the picturesque villages scattered across the countryside. Each season was celebrated with festivals, dances, and vibrant markets where artisans proudly displayed their creations.
Elara stood on the balcony of her chamber, her delicate fingers gripping the cold stone railing. Her gaze drifted over the slate rooftops of the village nestled at the foot of the hill, where the market was already in full swing. The distant echoes of laughter and merchants' calls brought a soft smile to her lips.
"Princess?"
The gentle voice of Mara, her servant and childhood friend, pulled her from her reverie. Elara turned, her long dark hair floating in the morning breeze.
"Yes, Mara?"
"The queen is waiting for you in the rose garden. She said she has a surprise for you."
A spark of curiosity lit up the young princess's eyes. Her mother, Queen Isolde, was known for her delicate surprises. The previous year, she had gifted Elara an ancient book recounting the forgotten legends of Auroria. This time, Elara secretly hoped for another story to devour.
She adjusted her light, pastel-hued dress and followed Mara through the palace corridors. The white stone walls were adorned with colorful tapestries depicting the kingdom's past victories, vanquished dragons, and crowned heroes.
As she crossed the great hall, she caught sight of her father, King Armand, deep in a serious discussion with several advisors. Their low voices and somber expressions stood in stark contrast to the soft light of the morning. Elara looked away, preferring to hold onto the tranquility of her mind for a few moments longer.
When she reached the rose garden, an enchanting sight greeted her. Arches of white and red roses intertwined, forming a floral tunnel bathed in light. At the center, seated on a marble bench, Queen Liora awaited her. Her graceful figure was draped in blue silk, and an ancient book rested on her lap.
"Mother!" Elara exclaimed, running toward her.
Liora opened her arms, welcoming her daughter into a tender embrace. The scent of lavender and old paper surrounded the queen, instantly soothing the princess.
"You came quickly, my sweet. I have something for you."
Elara stepped back slightly, her eyes shining with curiosity. Liora opened the book, revealing yellowed pages covered in strange symbols and delicate drawings.
"This grimoire belonged to your grandmother. It contains stories, but also secrets... of magic."
The young princess brushed the pages with her fingertips, almost feeling the energy emanating from the ancient ink.
"Magic is real?" she murmured, torn between wonder and doubt.
"Yes, but it does not reside only in spells or enchantments," Liora replied with a mysterious smile. "It lives in our choices, in our hearts. One day, you will understand."
A slight shiver ran through Elara. At that precise moment, she had no idea that these words would soon take on a much darker meaning.
For beyond the blooming walls of the rose garden, Malrik's shadow was already spreading over the kingdom. And this calm morning would soon be nothing more than a sweet memory, swept away by the storm to come.
- Writer
