The preparations moved faster than Lyra expected.
What had once felt distant
ceremony, union, standing beside him
was now unfolding in real time.
Voices filled the halls.
Footsteps echoed.
Servants, guards, attendants, everyone moved with purpose.
And at the center of it
was her.
Lyra stood just outside the grand hall, watching as arrangements were finalized.
Spaces assigned.
Rooms prepared.
“For the visiting packs,” someone said.
“They must be received properly.”
Her pack.
The thought alone made her chest tighten.
“They’ll need separate quarters closer to the east wing,” Lyra said suddenly.
The attendants paused.
Turning to her.
Waiting.
Lyra blinked slightly.
Then steadied herself.
“They’re not familiar with this place,” she continued, more firmly now.
“Make sure s
