Lyra's POV
I turned to Elena, my curiosity sparked about Genevieve, the healer living in the palace. I wanted to learn more about her plant expertise and how it might help.
"Ah, my queen, are you familiar with the Crimson-crest Scale leaves?" Elena asked, her earlier hesitation melting away, replaced by genuine excitement that made me smile.
"I am," I nodded, thinking it through. "Mix it right with Green Leaves, and it brings down fevers. Shifters don't get sick much, but it's perfect for kids whose healing powers haven't kicked in yet."
"Yes, yes," Elena burst out eagerly, but Clara elbowed her softly—a gentle reminder to watch her manners. Elena ducked her head, grinning sheepishly. "Sorry, my queen."
I laughed, charmed by their interaction. "What's there to apologize for?" I started wandering through the greenhouse, drinking in the green life around me. The space wasn't huge, but one plant caught my eye—vibrant and obviously loved. "You've been taking care of this one?"
