Chapter 9: Moment Of Reflection
Adonis sat alone in her chamber; a locket clutched tightly in her hand. She had just returned from a stroll with, Yorian in the palace gardens, her mind still reeling from the recent events.
The locket, a cherished heirloom from her family, was filled with memories. She could almost hear her sister Elara's voice, asking about the ingredients for portions and antidotes. Elara had always been curious, always eager to learn.
A smile tugged at Adonis's lips as she recalled the countless hours they had spent together, mixing herbs and concocting remedies. She hoped her grandmother was using the ointment she had given her and that the old woman would follow the prescription.
Adonis's thought turned to her future. She wanted to do more, to contribute to the kingdom in a meaningful way. She had studied healing for years and she longed to put her skills to use.
She knew she would have to talk to Yorian about her plans. She was determined to convince him to let her start her own pharmacy. Being a healer was her passion, and she was ready to pursue it with all her heart.
Adonis was pulled from her reverie by the guard's announcement. "Her Majesty, the Queen Mother, is arriving."
The Queen Mother entered the room, her gazed landing on Adonis. She sat beside the girl, her voice warm and comforting. "How are you adjusting to life away from your family, dear?" she asked. "You are a Queen now, remember."
Adonis smiled gratefully. "I'm doing well, thank you, Your Majesty. It's just… I miss my family very much."
The Queen Mother placed a comforting hand on Adonis's shoulder. "You are always welcome here, my dear. Consider this palace your home. Come to me whenever you need anything."
Adonis felt a surge of gratitude. The Queen Mother's kindness and warmth made her feel less alone. She was a bit relieve.
"There will be a family dinner in the palace tonight," the Queen Mother announced. "Be sure to dress appropriately."
With that, the Queen Mother rose to leave, leaving Adonis feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. The dinner would be her first social event in the kingdom, and she was eager to meet the royal family and the other guests. However, she was also nervous about fitting in and making a good impression.
The Queen Mother returned to her chambers; her mind filled with thoughts of her daughter in law. As she sat down, a guard announced the arrival of her sister, Sara, from Northern Domara.
The two sisters embraced warmly, catching up on each other's lives. Sara expressed her surprise upon hearing that Yorian is married. "Are you hiding something from me?' she asked with a knowing smile.
The Queen Mother chuckled. "There's a lot to tell you, but we can discuss it after the banquet." She said to her sister.
As they were chatting, Lady Sara's daughter, Amber, burst into the room. The Queen Mother was taken aback by how much the girl had grown. "Come here, dear," she said, beckoning Amber to sit beside her.
"You've grown into such a beautiful young woman," the Queen Mother remarked. "We should start planning your wedding."
Amber blushed.
The Queen Mother nodded. "I'm sure there will be many suitors vying for your hand."
"Whatever you decide sister." Sara said to the Queen Mother.
Amber giggled, her heart filled with Joy, she couldn't wait to see what the future held.
After they left the Queen Mother, Sara and Amber retired to the guest chamber. Amber was fuming. "Can you believe it, Mother? She is talking about finding suitors for me. Instead of talking about my marriage with Yorian." She grumbled, sitting down angrily.
Amber was deeply in love with her cousin, Yorian, the King of Domara. The thought of him being married to someone else filled her with dread.
Sara placed a comforting hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Don't worry, dear. I will make sure you become the Queen of Domara."
Amber looked at her mother skeptically. "How?"
Sara smiled mysteriously. "I know your aunt well. I'm sure she is hiding something from me."
Amber's eyes lit up with hope. Perhaps her mother had a plan after all.
After their discussion, Amber sighed. "I'm exhausted from the journey. I could really use a relaxing bath."
Her mother smiled. "Of course, you deserve a pampering after all you have been through. You will be the Queen of Domara soon."
Amber blushed, her heart filled with hope and excitement. She couldn't wait for the day she would be standing beside Yorian, her beloved cousin, as Queen of Domara.
After her relaxing bath, Amber summoned the servants to bring her snacks to the garden. The servants grumbled and gossiped among themselves, commenting on how she was already bossing them around, something even the new Queen, Adonis, hadn't done.
Amber, oblivious to the servants' grumbling, enjoyed her snacks in the peaceful garden. The afternoon sun warmed her skin, and the gentle breeze carried the sweet scent of flowers, the young vampire was lost in her thoughts when a familiar voice interrupted her reverie.
"Enjoying your snacks, cousin?" Yorian asked, his voice filled with amusement.
Amber looked up, her heart pounding. She had been hoping to see him. "Yes, thank you," she replied, a blush creeping across her cheeks.
Yorian sat down beside her, and they spent the afternoon chatting and laughing. As the sun began to set, Amber felt a sense of peace and contentment. She knew that her future with Yorian was uncertain, but for now, she was simply enjoying his company.
Amber congratulated Yorian on his wedding, her voice filled with a mix of joy and surprise. "I was so shocked to hear that you married a human," she admitted. "I always thought you would marry a vampire."
Yorian chuckled, "Well, sometimes life takes unexpected turns."
Amber nodded, her gaze fixed on Yorian, she couldn't help but feel jealous, but she quickly pushed it aside. She knew that she and Yorian were destined to be together.