The Reverie of a Mother

After Michael and Liora returned to the manor, the echoes of their footsteps faded into the stately halls. The court was already alive with murmurs, voices weaving rumors and secrets like threads through the heavy tapestry of Veldenz politics.

In a corner of the great hall, two noblewomen in emerald and ruby gowns whispered over a silver tray of spiced wine.

"Did you see the girl Lady Amalia brought? Common blood, they say," one whispered, her voice thick with distaste. "A reckless move. Amalia's grief has clouded her judgment."

Her companion smirked, swirling the wine. "Yes, but perhaps the girl holds more power than they realize. The emperor watches closely these days. He may not trust Amalia, but even less the ambitions stirring in House Eisenwald."

Nearby, a cluster of noblemen exchanged sharp glances.

"Eisenwald's puppet, the eldest son," one muttered darkly. "But the lady's choice might upset the balance. That girl… she's an unknown variable.

Their words trailed off as Empress Giselle entered the hall like a breeze through frost, her soft gown shimmering like moonlight. She moved directly toward Lady Amalia, who bowed deeply.

"Rise, my friend," Giselle said, her voice warm beneath the usual court polish. "It comforts me to see a familiar face among so much posturing."

Amalia stood with a faint smile. "Your Majesty. You look well. The court hasn't dulled your fire."

Giselle's eyes drifted toward Liora, who, sensing the attention, lowered her gaze politely. "So… this is the girl," she said quietly, her words just between them. "She carries herself with unusual stillness."

"She's learning quickly," Amalia replied. "She listens more than she speaks."

"That alone sets her apart," Giselle said. "Most children in these halls try to dazzle with their tongues."

Amalia's smile faded just a little. "She's not trying to dazzle. She's surviving."

A pause passed between them like a shared understanding.

Giselle turned her gaze back to Liora, watching the way she clasped her hands and stood just behind Amalia's left shoulder. "She reminds me of someone," she murmured. "Or perhaps it's just the eyes—steady, but far away."

"She's endured more than most courtiers here," Amalia said softly. "But I hope this place won't break what little childhood she has left."

Giselle's voice gentled. "Then surround her with those who will protect what's left. Not all of us in this palace are wolves."

They turned, and Giselle led Amalia toward the window alcove where a soft breeze stirred the curtains. "You received my summons about the banquet?" she asked.

Amalia nodded. "We'll be there."

"Good," Giselle said. "It's not just a feast this time. There are tensions beneath the surface—House Eisenwald grows bold. And the nobles… they hunger for stories. Liora's presence will stir talk. Are you ready for that?"

"I have been preparing her," Amalia answered. "But she is already watched more than she deserves."

"She'll need allies, then," Giselle said, her gaze sharp. "Perhaps someone should start introducing her to a few."

Just then, a cluster of nobles approached, men and women in rich velvet and brocade, their faces lacquered with politeness. Among them were Lord Maren von Holtz, a wiry man with bright hawk eyes, and Lady Dorette of the Southern Isles, her fan fluttering like a bird's wing.

"Your Majesty," Maren bowed, "I must say, this hall shines brighter with House Edelhardt's return."

"Chancellor von Holtz," Giselle acknowledged smoothly. "You've heard of Lady Amalia's adopted daughter, I believe."

"But of course," Lady Dorette chimed in with syrupy sweetness. "A charming girl. Tell me, does she sing as prettily as she stands?"

Amalia offered only the faintest smile. "She's many things. We've only begun to discover which ones."

The nobles chuckled politely.

The Empress's eyes flicked to Liora. "Let them look," she whispered under her breath. "Let them wonder."

And Liora, still quiet behind her Lady, stood with her spine straightened and her chin a little higher—aware now that eyes were not only watching… but weighing.

The evening sun dipped low behind the tall spires of Lysfeld as the Edelhardt children gathered in their chambers. The heavy scent of lavender and beeswax filled the air, mingling with the faint rustle of silk and velvet.

Mathilde, perched on a small stool, fussed over her curls with nervous fingers. "Do you think Prince Renard will notice me?" she whispered conspiratorially to Elias, who was busy stuffing a piece of stale bread into his mouth, crumbs tumbling down his chin.

Elias shrugged, his wide eyes bright despite the crumbs. "If he likes bread, maybe."

Leopold practiced his bow in front of the cracked mirror, his wooden sword leaning against the wall like a loyal soldier. "You have to be graceful and strong," he said seriously. "That's how you win hearts at court."

Annalise, already draped in a shimmering blue gown that sparkled faintly in the candlelight, rolled her eyes dramatically. "Or you can always throw a book if it doesn't work."

Liora sat quietly on the edge of the window seat, tightening the laces of her modest dress. She wasn't used to this kind of silk or the whisper of courtly fashion, but she caught herself smiling at the children's antics.

Michael entered the room, dressed in a dark coat embroidered with the Edelhardt crest. His sharp eyes scanned the room before settling on Liora. "Ready?" he asked quietly.

Liora nodded, meeting his gaze. "As ready as I'll ever be."

Michael gave a small, encouraging smile. "Don't worry. I'll be right there if anything happens."

Mathilde jumped up suddenly, tugging at Michael's sleeve. "Promise you'll save me if a prince asks for a dance?"

Michael chuckled, ruffling her hair. "I promise."

Annalise smirked. "And what if a prince throws a book at you?"

"Then I'll catch it," Michael said smoothly.

Leopold grinned, crossing his arms. "I think we're all counting on you, Michael."

Liora laughed softly, then glanced at Michael again. "Thank you for everything."

Michael's expression softened. "We look out for each other. That's what family does."

As they prepared to leave, Liora took a deep breath and glanced once more in the mirror, steadier now. The night ahead was daunting, but she would face it, surrounded by those she trusted.