Music Recommendation: "Flashlight" by Jesse J.
"Not even Calista herself will be able to touch a hair on your head once you carry his heir," Lucen said, his voice hard as glacier stone, though his weathered hand lingered on her shoulder with a rare, quiet warmth.
"So sharpen your resolve for our march to Caelmont next week. By high decree, every house of royal blood across the five realms must take their seats beneath the hall of balance in Caelmont. Do not drown yourself in foolish grief, child. Stand tall as the noble lady you were born to be."
Rhea let out a slow, trembling breath, her fingers clutching the small vial of dark glass until her knuckles turned ivory. She bowed her head, her dark eyes reflecting the flickering flame of the solitary candle.
"I will, father," she whispered, her tone steadying against the cold gloom of her chambers. "Thank you."
