❝𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐚 𝐧𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝,
𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝.
𝐀 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐫’𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠,
𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥, 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠❞

☾── · · ♰ · · ──☽

╰┈➤Aurelia Beatrice Valora

╰┈➤King Baldwin IV

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

-April 3, 1180-

Sibylla alighted from the carriage with grace, her silken gown trailing the ground, brushing against the dirt beneath her boots. Behind her, two of her ladies-in-waiting followed, their expressions a delicate blend of unease and intrigue.

Before her stood a modest, weathered building, its walls scarred by time and neglect. It was a far cry from the grandeur of the palace she called home, its faded walls and crumbling exterior a stark contrast to the opulence she was accustomed to. Yet, there was no turning back now.

She hesitated for a moment, her eyes flickering between the house and the carriage. This was not where she had intended to be. Yet, the weight of her brother's suffering pressed too heavily on her heart, and she knew she had no other choice.

She couldn't let Baldwin slip away without at least trying, no matter how ridiculous the solution might seem.

With a quiet breath, Sibylla straightened and stepped forward. The two ladies followed, keeping a respectful distance. As she reached the door of the hut, it creaked open, and the soft, raspy voice of the old fortune teller floated out to greet her.

"Ah, Your Highness, you've come," Mirah said, her tone calm, as though she had been waiting for this moment far longer than Sibylla cared to acknowledge. The old woman, wrapped in layers of faded grey and brown shawls, stepped into the doorway. "I knew you would yield in the end. Come in, princess, there's no time to squander."

"I'm here out of necessity," Sibylla replied, her voice cold, as though she resented herself for resorting to such madness. But she was determined. "For over a year, you've claimed to know the cure for the king. Tell me, what is it? What must I do to save him?"

The old woman's lips curled into a slow, knowing smile. She gestured for Sibylla to enter, and as the princess stepped into the dimly lit room, the overwhelming scent of incense and herbs engulfed her. It was like a storm of fragrances, a chaotic blend of smells drifting from every corner.

Mirah sat cross-legged on the floor, her long, silver-streaked hair falling in waves down her back. Her pale eyes fixed on Sibylla's, as if she could peer straight into the depths of her soul. She had known the princess would seek help sooner or later, and now that the moment had arrived, Mirah was ready to speak the truth.

The prophecy she had seen, the one about King Baldwin IV, the Leper King, as they called him.

"The cure," Mirah began slowly, her voice oddly calm, "is not what you imagine, Princess." Her gaze softened, as if she could feel the walls of doubt and fear closing in on Sibylla's heart. "It will not come from the hands of the king's physicians, nor from a noble healer, or even from your kingdom's finest."

Sibylla's impatience flared, but she bit her tongue, waiting for the prophecy to unfold as it was meant to. Prophecies were nothing more than nonsense, weren't they? Yet, for the sake of her dear brother Baldwin, she was ready to believe in anything.

"The cure will come not from a noble hand,

But from one whose blood ties to the common land.

A healer's touch will save the king,

And her love will be the final, fated spring."

Sibylla's brow furrowed, her mind racing to grasp the old woman's words.

A commoner?

She could hardly make sense of it.

"So, it's a girl, from somewhere?" Sibylla muttered, more to herself than to Mirah. "Who is she? How can she heal the king? A commoner, it's madness!"

"You seek answers, Your Highness," Mirah replied, her voice soft. "But answers often come in ways we cannot understand. She will be out there, hidden, waiting. You must find her before the king's time runs out." Her smile lingered, though it was tinged with a sorrowful pity.

Sibylla's heart pounded in her chest. She opened her mouth to argue, to demand more answers, but the old woman's next words silenced her.

"Look to the desert's edge," Mirah murmured cryptically, her voice softening. "Where the earth meets the sky. Follow where the wind will carry the sands this week. She's there, a black-haired girl with ocean-blue eyes. And only then, when her heart has been given, will the king's fate be sealed."

Sibylla stood in stunned silence, the words of the prophecy echoing in her mind. She had come seeking hope, but now it felt as though she had been handed nothing but riddles. Still, there was no other choice. No other hope.

"I will find her," she said firmly, though her voice trembled. With a resolute nod, Sibylla turned toward the door.

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

-April 9, 1180-

Aurelia hummed a cheerful tune as she stirred the simmering stew over the hearth, the savory aroma of herbs and vegetables filling the small cottage. The sun had barely risen, yet already she was brimming with energy, as she was every morning.

At eighteen, Aurelia had already witnessed the unforgiving nature of the world. Life, she understood, was far from a fairy tale. It was what you made of it, and for her, it meant tending to her ailing father, a once-renowned physician now weakened by his own fragility, and supporting her two older brothers, who bore their burdens quietly, without complaint.

Five years ago, her mother had vanished, eloping with another man and leaving her family to pick up the scattered remnants of the life she had abandoned. Aurelia's father had never been the same. The bitterness of abandonment lingered in his words and in the deep lines of his face.

But Aurelia had never let it break her.

She took care of her family. She tended to the small, weathered cottage on the outskirts of the village. And, most of all, she took care of the healing arts her father had taught her, using her hands to mend bones, tend wounds, and ease pain.

"Papa," she called with a playful grin as she set the bread on the table. "It's time to wake up. You have had ample rest for the day."

Her father, who had been bedridden for months due to his declining health, shifted under his blanket and groaned. His eyes fluttered open, and he chuckled weakly at his daughter's persistent noise, knowing full well that she believed he could sleep through the chaos of her early-morning singing. But the laugh was quickly followed by a harsh cough.

Aurelia quickly poured him a cup of water, her smile never fading.

"Drink this, Papa," she urged softly.

As she placed the cup on the table, her two older brothers, Jareth and Cedric, entered the room, still heavy with the remnants of sleep. They offered her weary but grateful nods, silently acknowledging the meal she had lovingly prepared.

"I'm starving," Cedric mumbled, the older of the two, as he sank into his chair at the table. His brown eyes blinked drowsily, still adjusting to the bright morning light.

Aurelia chuckled softly as she set the plate of eggs down in front of them. Her brothers had their own work to tend to, often staying out late into the night, which was why they were always waking up so late in the morning. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt, seeing them so perpetually tired, as if sleep were a luxury they could never quite afford.

"What's all this talk about royal guards in the village?" Jareth asked, his voice still heavy with sleep. He rubbed his eyes and stifled a yawn.

"The royal guards? Here?" Aurelia raised an eyebrow, pausing as she took her seat at the table. She often felt as though she spent so much time in solitude that she was always the last to hear of what was happening around the village.

"Yes, they've been here for two days now," Cedric replied, tearing off a piece of bread as he casually began eating his eggs. "They're searching for someone, a girl, it seems, but no one knows who she is." His tone was uninterested, as though the matter held little importance to him.

Once both her brothers finished their meal, each of them gathered his belongings and departed for his work. Aurelia rose from her seat and made her way to the small bed in the corner of the room, where her father lay.

"Papa," she whispered gently, her fingers brushing a strand of graying hair from his forehead. "How are you feeling today?"

"Better," her father murmured, his eyes fluttering open, though clouded with weariness. "Better than yesterday, at least."

"I'll head to the market and return soon," she said with a gentle smile, helping him sip from the soup she had carefully prepared. "I need to gather some herbs for a remedy I'm concocting for Avigail; she's still terribly unwell."

Her gaze softened as she thought of her dear neighbor, who had been suffering for months. The thought of her lingering pain weighed heavily on Aurelia's heart, despite all her attempts to ease it.

"Don't stray too far, Aurelia," her father, who had been quietly listening, met her eyes with a knowing look.

"I will, Papa," she reassured him, gently rising from his side after ensuring he was comfortable in bed, a book resting between his hands. "And don't worry. One day, we'll have enough to send you to the healing temples in Sicily. They'll know how to help. They have the finest physicians there."

"I know, Aurelia. You always have a plan," her father's smile faltered for a moment, but he nodded, his eyes softening with quiet gratitude.

"I always will," she murmured, her voice filled with the kind of trust that only youth could hold. "I'll be back soon."

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

The market was bustling as usual, merchants loudly peddling their wares, children chasing one another through the crowd, and a medley of scents wafting from every corner. Meanwhile, others lingered, using the market as a meeting place, their voices filling the surroundings with a constant hum of gossip and chatter.

Aurelia made her way to the herb vendor's stall, a humble booth draped with woven mats and surrounded by pots brimming with dried flowers, roots, and leaves. The elderly woman who tended the stall offered a warm smile as Aurelia approached, her weathered face creasing with age but her eyes still bright with life.

"Aurelia, my dear, how is your father today?" the vendor inquired softly, her voice gentle.

"He's doing better," Aurelia replied softly, with a gentle smile. "Still a bit weak, but he has his good days. I just need to gather a few things." She leaned over the counter, scanning the dried herbs, her fingers brushing over the familiar textures.

"I'll need some thyme for a poultice," Aurelia murmured, gently pointing to the small bundles of dried thyme hanging in neat rows. "And some marigold for the inflammation. I also need yarrow, there have been a lot of coughs in the village lately, so I'm sure we'll need it at home. And... rosemary, for headaches."

The herb vendor nodded in understanding, carefully gathering the requested items into a small burlap sack.

"Please, convey my warmest regards to your father," the woman murmured with a sincere smile, lightly brushing Aurelia's arm. Aurelia nodded in appreciation, offering the woman a grateful smile before handing over the payment for the herbs.

As she turned to leave, she continued to meander through the market, though her thoughts lingered on the stack of books she wished to buy. Yet, given their current circumstances and her father's worsening health, she knew that every coin must be saved for his treatment.

Once she felt she'd had enough of chatting with various people and admiring the many beautiful items, she snapped her fingers on her basket and began making her way back to the cottage. As she walked, she mentally ran through her tasks for the day. Though they were simple, she cherished every part of them, finding comfort in the routine of her life.

A slight frown furrowed her brow as she neared the cottage. Her gaze lingered on the group of men standing in front of it, and she noticed the door was ajar. Through the open doorway, she could see her father, barely able to stand, his weary eyes locked onto one of the tall, imposing figures. And then, it hit her.

They were the royal guards.

"Here she is, Aurelia," her father said, his gnarled hand gesturing toward the girl standing just behind the royal guards. "My daughter, the only girl in our home."

The guards turned toward her, the head guard studying her closely, his gaze sharp. He exchanged a glance with the others, a silent conversation passing between them, before turning back to her.

"Excellent," the guard stated, his tone courteous yet commanding. "Princess Sibylla has issued orders, you are to come with us."

"What do you mean?" Aurelia froze, her heart pounding as her mind raced to comprehend the words. "I... I don't understand."

"It's not a request, young lady," the head guard remarked, his voice resolute. "Her Highness, Princess Sibylla, has specifically asked for you. She believes a significant opportunity awaits you at the palace."

Aurelia's mind raced, her brow knitting in confusion.

What?

The princess?

"What opportunity?" she asked, stepping closer to her father, clutching the bundle of herbs tightly in her hands as if they could anchor her.

The head guard shared a fleeting glance with one of the other guards before directing his focus back to Aurelia.

"You should meet Her Highness first," he replied, his tone gentler now, as if sensing her uncertainty. "The princess believes you have a future there. There's a chance you could become a physician at the palace."

"A physician?" Aurelia's heart skipped a beat. "But... I can't leave," she said, her words tumbling out in a rush. "Papa's not well. I can't just abandon him. And I don't understand any of this."

"Aurelia," Her father stepped forward, leaning heavily on his cane, his frail frame steady despite his weakness "You've always dreamed of becoming a great healer, of learning and helping others. This is your chance. You can't stay here waiting for it to happen. These are royal guards, this is a rare opportunity."

Aurelia swallowed hard, her eyes shifting between her father and the guards. The chance to learn, to heal, was everything she'd ever wanted. But she felt so confused, this was happening so fast, it seemed like a dream or some cruel joke.

"I'm not ready," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I've never been trained. I don't know how to be a physician... I'm just starting out."

The guards exchanged a glance, perplexed. According to Princess Sibylla's orders, they had expected to find a skilled healer, someone with expertise.

It was confusing that this girl claimed to be a beginner, how could she possibly heal the king? But they were simply following orders. She met all the criteria given to them, and her abilities were now the castle's concern, not theirs.

"You've got the touch, young lady," the head guard said. "We've heard about your skills with herbs, everyone's talking about you and your father." His expression softened slightly as he stepped closer, his voice calm and reassuring. "And the castle... well, it's a place where you'll have every opportunity to learn even more."

"But how could Princess Sibylla have known about me?" she asked, the words slipping out before she could stop them. Her hands trembled slightly as she gripped the bundle of herbs tighter.

"The princess keeps her ear to the ground," the head guard replied, pausing as if carefully choosing his words, crafting a story to ease her doubt. "She's aware of many things, including those with potential. She believes in giving people like you a chance."

Aurelia's mind whirled with the enormity of it all. The princess herself had taken an interest in her. Could she really take such a step? Was she truly skilled and renowned enough to warrant this attention?

She stole another glance at her father, his quiet support steadfast. He had always believed in her, always urged her to aim higher.

Aurelia closed her eyes briefly, her heart racing. Her father needed help, and the money she could earn at the castle, it might be the very thing that could save him.

"I'll go with you," she answered, taking a deep breath to steady herself. "But I need to understand more. I need to know what this truly entails. What am I stepping into?"

"All in good time, young lady," the head guard remarked, offering a small nod. "You'll be taught everything you need to know."

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

-April 10, 1180-

Aurelia had never beheld anything as magnificent as the palace. The grand gates stood wide, unveiling a courtyard so vast it left her breathless. Intricate carvings embellished the buildings, while vibrant flags danced in the breeze, their colors striking against the endless blue sky. The air was rich with the scent of luxury, making her eyes shimmer with wonder.

She hurried after the guards, yet moved slowly enough to drink in every detail with her keen blue eyes. The guards led her through winding corridors, their footsteps echoing softly, until they arrived at a grand chamber.

"Stay here for a moment." the guard commanded, prompting Aurelia to glance at him anxiously before giving a silent nod.

He stepped inside the room, disappearing for what felt like an eternity, so much so that Aurelia began to wonder if he had forgotten her presence outside. Yet, she remained rooted to her spot, unwilling to move.

At last, after what felt like a lifetime, the door creaked open, and he motioned for her to enter. Aurelia stepped inside, her heart racing with anxiety.

At the far end of the room sat Princess Sibylla, a young woman of around twenty, her striking blonde hair cascading in soft waves around her face. Her blue eyes were clear and piercing, exuding a quiet authority that made her seem far wiser than her years. Seated at a long table, her posture was graceful and regal, radiating a power that only royalty could possess, or perhaps that was simply how Aurelia perceived her.

Beside her, a small boy no older than three played with a wooden toy, his blonde hair a perfect mirror of Princess Sibylla's fair features.

"Come in," the princess uttered, her voice calm, her tone laced with warmth.

Aurelia took a cautious step forward, her legs feeling unsteady beneath her. She had never envisioned herself standing before royalty, never imagined being summoned here. What troubled her even more was the looming fear of being rejected for some unknown reason.

"Baldwin, my love, go play outside," Sibylla murmured, her voice soft as she gave a subtle nod to her son. He looked up from his toy, his face lighting up with excitement, before dashing toward the door, three maids trailing behind him.

Once the door closed, Sibylla's expression subtly changed, her eyes drifting to a door on the far side of the room. Aurelia followed her gaze, but beyond the door, there was nothing to be seen.

The woman behind the door met Sibylla's gaze and nodded, a silent understanding passing between them about the girl who had just entered the room, unaware of the presence standing there. The princess then shifted her attention back to Aurelia, her eyes softening.

"What is your name?" she asked, tilting her head slightly as she studied Aurelia with a quiet intensity.

"Aurelia, Your Highness," the girl replied, her voice steady but laced with a hint of nervousness.

"Aurelia," Sibylla began, her voice calm and measured as she leaned forward slightly. "You are here because I believe in your potential. After much contemplation, I have come to believe that your place is here, to learn, and to serve the palace with your remarkable talent in healing."

Aurelia's mind spun. She wasn't a skilled healer, her knowledge was limited to what her father had taught her. She was nowhere near capable of treating the sick and injured with the expertise she imagined the palace physicians possessed.

"Your Highness... I am no great healer," the girl murmured, her voice tinged with hesitation as her fingers fidgeted with the edge of her sleeve, twisting the fabric between them. "I have received no formal training. All I know comes from what my father taught me... and a handful of things I've gleaned from books."

Sibylla offered a gentle smile, though uncertainty lingered beneath it. She was just as puzzled as Aurelia, especially after what the guard had said moments ago, that the girl he brought was far from skilled and lacked the ability to tend to the king's condition. The words had left her quietly unsettled.

However, Mirah had urged her to meet the girl before passing judgment. She had made it clear that the girl was never meant to know everything from the start, only that, in time, she would learn. All she asked was that the princess place her trust in the path set before them.

"You possess great potential, Aurelia. I have heard much of you," Sibylla replied, her gaze gentle as she straightened in her seat, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her cup before setting it down with deliberate care. "Within these palace walls, you shall have every resource at your disposal to grow, to learn, and to become all you are meant to be. Nothing shall be withheld from you." A warm smile touched her lips. "Remain with us for a few months. And if, in time, you find no comfort here or gain nothing of what you seek, you may go freely."

Aurelia remained silent for a moment, her thoughts swirling, her mind fixated on one person, her father.

She had always fretted over how to afford his treatment, how to pay for the medicine he so desperately needed. If she stayed here, if she accepted this opportunity, just as he had advised, perhaps those worries would finally fade. That had, from the very beginning, been the sole reason she had agreed to come.

"Of course, I could not refuse such an honour, Your Highness," Aurelia said, swallowing softly, her voice low but resolute. "I shall learn, give all that I can, and pray I prove worthy of your trust and expectations."

I hope so too, the princess thought to herself, offering Aurelia a gentle nod and a warm, reassuring smile.

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

-April 17, 1180-

Aurelia could not sleep.

It was her final night, for now, beneath the humble roof of their cottage. The princess had granted her a week: to make ready, to gather her belongings, and bid farewell to her father and brothers. And yet, though all was set in motion, none of it felt real.

Not yet.

She sat by the window for a long while, gazing at the moon with quiet curiosity, her fingers trailing absentmindedly along the spine of the book she had left unfinished.

She longed for more, for purpose, for greatness, and though the thought of chasing it within the palace walls stirred her with excitement, a shadow of doubt lingered. The thought of leaving her father behind, and the quiet fear of failure, weighed heavy on her heart.

When morning came, all was in readiness around her. Her brothers had risen early, spending quiet moments at her side, their words light with laughter. Yet they held back their farewells, saving them for the hour of parting.

"Aurelia, you know there's still time to say no, if your heart isn't set on this," Cedric said, stepping in front of her as the guards waited just beyond the door. "She may be a princess, but that does not mean you have no right to choose your own path."

"Worry not," she replied swiftly, startled by his words and glancing around in fear that another might have overheard. "My mind is set." She offered him a small smile, embracing him before turning to do the same with her younger brother, and at last, her father, who, with the aid of his cane, insisted on standing to escort her to the door.

"Come on, my lady, the hour is upon us," came the guard's voice from beyond the door, steady and clear. Aurelia drew a breath, steadied herself, and let a faint smile touch her lips.

Her brothers gathered her belongings and accompanied her outside, where they placed everything in the carriage. She gave them a final glance before climbing in, prompting the guards to mount their steeds and set off swiftly on their way.

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

-April 18, 1180-

"The princess wishes to see you first, before all else," the guard explained to the girl as she hurried beside him, her steps quick to match his pace.

"Sir, what is your name?" she asked with a bright smile, her curiosity growing for the man she had known for days yet never learned his name. "If you don't mind me asking, of course."

"I am Garin," he replied calmly, and as they reached one of the corridors, Princess Sibylla was already standing there, beside her husband, Guy of Lusignan.

They were exchanging a few words, and just from the princess's gestures, it was evident that she was not at ease. But as soon as her gaze fell upon Garin and Aurelia, she gently nudged her husband aside and made an attempt to force a smile onto her face.

"Good morning, Aurelia," Sibylla greeted, her smile strained, failing to reach her eyes. She gave a slight nod toward Guy, her hand sweeping toward him in a deliberate motion. "This is my husband." She then turned to Guy, her movements sharp yet controlled, as if trying to mask an unspoken tension. "And this is Aurelia; she shall join our physicians."

"Your Highness," Aurelia smiled, bowing her head respectfully to the princess. She then mirrored the gesture, turning to Guy, who looked furious. "My lord," she added, her tone steady despite the tension between them.

Guy shot his wife one last glance, full of barely contained anger, before he turned and strode away, leaving the place.

Aurelia followed him with her eyes, curiosity piqued. She had heard many rumors and whispers about Guy of Lusignan, the second husband of Princess Sibylla, after she had been widowed by William of Montferrat. The rumors surrounding Guy were far from kind, and just seeing him now gave Aurelia a strange, unsettling feeling.

"Come, I'll show you to your place," the princess suggested, making an effort to shake off the worry her husband had caused her. Aurelia followed, a wide smile of excitement spreading across her face, leaving her earlier nervousness behind.

Sibylla moved swiftly through the corridors, her silky dress trailing behind her as she made sure to explain nearly everything they passed, each hall, every corridor, and its purpose, to Aurelia. They continued until they reached the far side of the castle, where they stopped before a wooden door.

Aurelia stepped into the room behind Sibylla, where soft sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over the modest space. A bed stood against one wall, a wooden chest for her belongings at its foot, and a small desk cluttered with books.

"This shall be your chamber," She stepped further inside, her hand sweeping in a graceful arc as she gestured toward the room. "You are free to adorn it as you wish. Should you have need of anything, do not hesitate to ask." She moved toward the bed, pausing beside the large wooden chest at its foot. Resting a hand upon it, she added, "Your belongings from home have already been brought hither."

"Thank you, I truly appreciate it," Aurelia murmured with a warm smile, her eyes wandering across the chamber. There was a quiet charm to it, and as she took it all in, a gentle sense of comfort began to settle in her chest.

"Come now," the princess beckoned, turning toward the door with a graceful motion of her hand. "I shall show you where you will be tending to your duties."

The two departed the chamber and made their way through winding corridors, passing soldiers, servants, and courtiers, each absorbed in their tasks. At length, they reached a quieter, more secluded wing of the palace, one that seemed almost out of place amidst the grandeur. It was situated on the upper floor, far from the usual stir of courtly life.

"This shall be your place of work," Sibylla announced as they stepped into a chamber lined with shelves bearing jars, glass vials, and bundles of dried herbs.

Aurelia's eyes widened with awe, this was the very heart of the palace's healing arts. On the far side of the chamber, she caught sight of three figures already immersed in their tasks, their movements swift and focused, clearly absorbed in their work.

"These are thy colleagues," Sibylla spoke, her tone calm. "You will labour beside them, and in time, learn from their craft."

The first was a man with a long, graying beard and a stern expression, appearing to be in his sixties. He didn't seem to notice their arrival at first, too engrossed in a pile of herbs before him. But once the princess's voice echoed through the room, they all set aside what they were holding.

"This is Elias," Sibylla introduced, her tone filled with respect. "His knowledge of traditional remedies is unmatched. There is much you can learn from him."

Elias glanced up briefly, offering a short nod in Aurelia's direction. His gaze was measured, yet there was a warmth in his features that eased her tension, making her feel a little more at ease amidst these unfamiliar faces.

Next to Elias stood a man, likely in his early thirties. His features were sharp, his dark eyes keen, and an aura of quiet intelligence seemed to surround him.

"This is Rami," Sibylla continued, her hand gesturing toward the man with a practiced grace. "He is a scholar from the East. His methods..." She paused, her brow furrowing slightly as she chose her words carefully, "...are unconventional by our ways, yet he has saved lives that many others deemed beyond saving."

"Welcome," Rami greeted with a slight smile, nodding at Aurelia, his gaze thoughtful yet welcoming.

The third physician was a woman with short, curly brown hair, her back straight and posture exuding confidence, likely in her forties or fifties. There was an unmistakable hardness to her features, as though she was not easily impressed by those around her.

"And this is Alina," the princess remarked, her hand gesturing towards the woman with a slight nod of acknowledgment. "She has served us for many years. A highly skilled physician, with a sharp mind and quick hands. I trust she shall guide you through all that you need to learn."

"Welcome," Alina glanced up briefly, her eyes cool and assessing, lacking warmth. "It will be... interesting to see what this young lady is capable of here." Her tone was sharp, as if already doubting Aurelia's abilities.

Aurelia nodded, feeling a wave of unease wash over her as she stood among the woman and men, their piercing gazes upon her. She sought to push the feeling aside, steeling herself. She could learn from them, she thought. They would teach her. And perhaps, in time, she might prove herself worthy to stand among them.

"Take your time to settle in," Sibylla remarked with gentle kindness. "You must be weary. Go and rest for the day; tomorrow, you may begin your work." She offered a soft smile, her presence fleeting as she turned and departed.

Aurelia remained silent, watching as the physicians swiftly returned to their duties. Elias, with the calm precision of experience, resumed sorting and grinding his herbs, each movement deliberate and practiced. Rami, offering her a brief yet thoughtful smile, turned back to his books, his quill dancing across the pages as he scribbled with deep focus. Alina, casting a sharp glance in Aurelia's direction, soon turned her attention back to her task, her indifference as clear as the steady pace of her hands.

Just as she began to turn toward the door to make her exit, Alina's voice rang out sharply, her tone cool, devoid of warmth.

"You," Alina spoke without lifting her gaze from her task, her voice sharp, "be here before the first light of dawn. We shall prepare His Majesty's morning medicine. Be ready, for the work here is not for those who falter or fail to keep pace."

Aurelia felt the sharp sting of Alina's words, yet she nodded, attempting to mask the unease rising within her with a faint smile. As she stepped into the hallway, a surge of nervous excitement washed over her. Tomorrow, she would begin her true work, and despite the overwhelming sense of being out of place, there was a quiet thrill in knowing that she would learn things she had never imagined.

She walked through the labyrinthine corridors, but with every turn she took, her sense of direction faltered. The passageways, vast and unfamiliar, seemed to stretch on endlessly in every direction. With each step, she grew more disoriented, realizing she had no knowledge of how to return to her room.

As she paused, trying to make sense of the maze of corridors, she accidentally collided with someone.

"Forgive me, I meant no harm. I am utterly lost and..."

"Oh, do not fret, my dear! You must be the new physician I saw earlier with the princess, yes?" The girl spoke with warmth and curiosity, her voice light and friendly. Her bright brown eyes sparkled with mischief, and her dark hair was braided neatly, resting gracefully over her shoulder. "I am Selene," she added with a smile.

"Yes, I am... I suppose I am lost," Aurelia admitted, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I was trying to find my way back to my room, but everything looks the same in these halls." She smiled sheepishly, a little caught off guard by the girl's cheerful nature.

"I'll say! This place is like a maze, isn't it?" Selene chuckled, her laughter warm and infectious. She motioned for Aurelia to follow, stepping lightly down the corridor. "Come, I'll take you to your room. I'm always wandering these halls, so I know every corner of the palace."

"Thank you," Aurelia sighed in relief, grateful for Selene's kind demeanor. "I would have surely wandered in circles for hours, had you not come to my aid."

Selene winked, her playful demeanor a welcome contrast to the formality and tension Aurelia had faced earlier. As they walked, she made sure to guide Aurelia carefully, teaching her how to memorize the maze-like corridors. All the while, she asked Aurelia numerous questions about how she had come to be at the palace. Aurelia didn't mind in the least; the girl's friendly curiosity made her feel truly welcomed.

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

-April 19, 1180-

Aurelia awoke to the soft, pale light of dawn filtering through the narrow window. The bed, though humble, had offered a surprising comfort, and for a fleeting moment, she was lost in the stillness, forgetting where she lay.

She rose swiftly, her hands steady as she donned the modest yet well-kept gown gifted to her the day before, a pale blue garment of soft fabric, cinched at the waist with a simple belt. With practiced haste, she braided her hair from the sides, leaving the rest to cascade freely down her back.

With a soft sigh, she rose and made her way toward the door. The palace corridors stretched endlessly before her, their grandeur disorienting. As she walked, her nerves tightened, for once again she found herself lost, having passed the same intricately woven tapestries and towering stone pillars more times than she cared to recall.

The distant clatter of guards reached her ears, but she hesitated to seek their aid, she was already an outsider in this place. She would learn the palace on her own, she resolved, even if it meant losing herself within its labyrinthine halls.

Her footsteps grew louder with each turn, and before long, she found herself in an unfamiliar wing of the palace. Just as she was about to retrace her steps and admit defeat, a voice broke the silence, startling her.

"Is there something amiss, young lady?"

Aurelia turned, startled, to find a man standing before her, a gentle smile playing on his lips. He was tall, his hair touched with gray and neatly combed back, and his face wore an expression of warmth and kindness. His attire, simple yet refined, signaled that he held some measure of importance.

"I’m lost," she confessed, her cheeks warming with a touch of embarrassment. "I was meant to report to the physicians' chambers, but... I can't seem to find my way there."

The man’s smile softened further, devoid of any mockery, only an understanding that seemed to recognize her significance. With a quick glance, he deduced that, as one chosen to join the physicians, she must be of importance, after all, only the finest from across the world were selected to serve in the palace.

"I see." He paused, regarding her with a thoughtful gaze. "You must be new, I surmise?"

"Yes," Aurelia nodded, relieved that he seemed unbothered by her confusion. "My name is Aurelia." She hesitated, but the man's kind expression gave her courage. "I was uncertain if I should trouble the guards... I did not wish to be a burden."

"No trouble at all," he said with a reassuring smile. "It’s quite all right. There’s no shame in getting lost in a place like this."

Aurelia felt a wave of relief wash over her, and for a fleeting moment, she nearly forgot the discomfort that came with being so far from home.

"I am William, an old friend of the king. And you, Aurelia, how did you come to be here?"

"I..." Aurelia faltered for a moment, then found her voice, reassured by his calm demeanor. "I am here by the command of Princess Sibylla. She believes I possess potential and that I might learn from the esteemed physicians here."

"A noble cause," William nodded thoughtfully, "I have no doubt you shall do much good here." His gaze softened as he regarded her. "Now, as for your current plight..."

Aurelia offered a faint smile, though a trace of embarrassment still clung to her. William turned then, his attention shifting to a nearby guard who had been silently observing them from a distance.

"Edgar," he called, his voice firm yet composed. The guard stepped forward at once, his stance upright and respectful. "See Lady Aurelia to the physicians’ chambers at once."

The guard gave a respectful nod, his expression solemn and composed.

"Thank you, my lord," Aurelia murm, casting a grateful glance at William. "Forgive me for the trouble."

"There is no need for apologies, young lady,"

Aurelia followed the guard down the narrow corridor, striving to steady her breath, her heart heavy with the fear that she might be late on her first day.

Upon reaching their destination, she stepped inside, offering her thanks to the guard. Her gaze swept the room, where Alina, Elias, and Rami were already engrossed in their duties, as though they had been at their work for some time.

"You’re late," Alina snapped, her gaze icy as it met Aurelia's the moment she drew near. "This is no time for tardiness. We have work to do, and you can't afford such a lapse on your first day."

"I beg your pardon," Aurelia murmured respectfully. "I lost my way. It was not my intention to be late."

"Enough with the excuses." Alina’s eyes narrowed sharply as she reached for a jar of dried lavender. "I need you to prepare a poultice for a maid suffering from a high fever and chills. Use a mixture of willow bark, chamomile, and yarrow. And do it swiftly."

Aurelia’s gaze flickered for a moment as she surveyed the herbs upon the table. She had read of their properties in books and had a general understanding of their uses, yet she had never been asked to prepare them in the precise manner Alina now required.

Alina turned her back, already tending to another batch of medicine, leaving Aurelia to fend for herself.

Her hands hovered uncertainly over the dried plants, her mind momentarily empty. She reached for the pestle and mortar, the grinding stone cold and heavy in her grasp, as though it weighed a thousand pounds.

From the corner of her eye, Aurelia saw a figure step forward, Rami. Noticing her hesitation, he quietly approached and placed a hand on her shoulder, his voice soft.

"You’re doing well," he said, offering a faint smile. "But if ever you find yourself uncertain, it is better to ask. We are here to aid one another."

"I’ve never prepared a poultice in this manner before," she murmured, lifting her gaze to him, her nerves evident in the wide blue of her eyes. "I am unsure of how much to grind or the proper fineness."

"Do not worry," he replied, his smile softening as his gaze met hers. "Begin with the willow bark. It is a natural pain reliever, and we must grind it finely for proper absorption. Then, add the chamomile and yarrow in equal measure."

Aurelia nodded slowly, her breath steady as she mirrored Rami’s movements, her sharp eyes never wavering, as if determined not to miss a single detail.

"And how shall I know when it is ready?"

"You’ll know by the feel of it," his gaze briefly sweeping over the herbs before returning to her. "When the plants are ground into a fine powder, it will be ready to mix with the hot water. That is when it becomes the poultice."

As she worked, Rami remained by her side, offering quiet guidance. Aurelia’s hands moved with increasing precision. The willow bark ground finely beneath her touch, followed by the chamomile and yarrow, as the poultice slowly took shape.

Alina, who had been watching from afar, finally turned her gaze toward them. She studied the mixture Aurelia had prepared, her expression inscrutable. After a long pause, she gave a slight, almost imperceptible nod.

"Not flawless, but it will suffice,"

"It is time," said Elias, his voice calm as he turned from the window where he had stood in quiet reflection.

"Here, young lady, hold this and make yourself of use," Alina commanded curtly, handing Aurelia a wooden bowl filled with warm water and draping a few cloths over her arm.

"Am I to go with...?" Aurelia did not have the chance to finish her question, her eyes wide with surprise, as Alina gave a curt nod in reply.

Alina herself could not comprehend why this young, inexperienced girl was to accompany them for the king’s morning tending, yet such were Princess Sibylla’s commands. The princess had been behaving oddly where Aurelia was concerned, as though she placed a rare and personal faith in the girl’s abilities—abilities that Alina had yet to see in this girl.

"You will keep your distance and know your place," Alina instructed "When we enter, you will bow low. Speak not unless spoken to, and above all, do not approach His Majesty." She fixed Aurelia with a sharp gaze. "Understand?"

"Yes,"

Aurelia followed the others out of the chamber, her heart still pounding from the anxiety that had seized her earlier. She was about to meet the King of Jerusalem, a man of great renown, revered by many. Though her curiosity burned, a feeling of overwhelming weight settled upon her.

Rami, who had been following behind them quietly, placed a hand on Aurelia’s arm gently. His voice calm.

"Alina and Elias are those entrusted with the king’s care," Rami said quietly, leaning closer so that only Aurelia might hear. "They have served as his personal physicians for many years, long before I arrived. I’ve been studying his condition for over a year, but in limited capacity. I am not permitted to gaze upon his face, so do not take it personally. His Majesty is simply more at ease with them."

"Truly?" Aurelia turned to him, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"I have only been permitted to examine his hand, never his face," Rami’s expression grew more serious as he continued, lowering his voice. "I’ve tried many remedies for his ailment, but none have brought a cure."

"The king’s condition demands a great deal of care and privacy, which is why I am not allowed to be present when the mask is removed." He took a moment, his eyes reflecting quiet understanding. "When the time comes for His Majesty to remove his mask, I always leave the chamber. Today, you shall do the same."

Just as Rami finished, the door to the king’s chamber opened with a soft creak, and Alina gestured for them to enter.

"Remember what I’ve told you," Alina snapped, giving Aurelia a sharp, final look. "Bow when you see the king, and keep your tongue still."

Aurelia stepped inside, her heart pounding with a tangle of anticipation and wonder at what awaited her. The chamber was awash in the flickering glow of lantern light, casting long shadows across the stone walls, which were adorned with tapestries of white and gold, scenes of crusades and sacred art woven into their fabric. At the heart of the room, behind a grand desk burdened with scrolls and parchments, sat the young King of Jerusalem.

She, still lingering near the threshold, felt a sudden and unbidden wave of vulnerability wash over her. She had been instructed to bow, to hold her tongue, to remain as unseen as possible. Yet her eyes, drawn by a force she could neither name nor resist, found the king with quiet insistence. Curiosity, bold, unyielding, anchored her gaze, and though her sense of decorum whispered for her to look away, she could not.

"Your Majesty," Alina spoke with a respectful tone, placing the items she carried upon the wooden table and offering the king a courteous, measured smile.

The king, who had been absorbed in his writings with a quill, at last lifted his gaze. His blue eyes, visible through the slits of his silver mask, were arresting, an intense hue that seemed to pierce through all, yet held a quiet benevolence as he regarded Alina with a measured nod of acknowledgment.

"I see there is a new face amongst us today," he said, his gaze shifting to Aurelia, a hint of surprise in his eyes as he took note of the young girl before him.

"Your Majesty," Aurelia stammered, the words faltering on her lips as his gaze fixed upon her. "I am Aurelia, a newly appointed healer, brought to..."

"She is a new addition, Your Majesty," Alina's sharp voice interjected before Aurelia could finish, cutting her off. "Brought to assist with various tasks around the palace. She is still learning her place, of course."

Aurelia’s heart raced, yet the king’s eyes remained fixed upon her, soft and contemplative. His gaze did not falter, and a faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips, a gesture warm and welcoming, though hidden beneath the veil of his mask.

"I see," he remarked, his voice steady and calm. "And you are here to assist Alina, then?"

Aurelia could only nod, her throat dry as dust. Her thoughts scattered, and she found herself unable to look away from him, nor could she summon the words to speak.

"Alina possesses great knowledge," The king continued, his tone gentle as he rose from his seat and moved to a nearby table, where he took his place in a chair. "I am certain she will guide you well."

"It is my honor, Your Majesty," the girl replied, a sense of comfort stirring within her at the calmness of the king’s voice. His tone, gentle, made her understand the deep reverence all held for him, for he appeared both kind and respectful in his manner.

Aurelia kept her distance, her hands clasped before her as she observed intently. The king’s hands, resting carefully upon the desk, trembled ever so slightly. Elias and Rami worked with practiced hands, carefully unwinding the gloves and bandages that encased them. The skin on his fingers was discolored, the joints swollen and stiff, and the sight stirred a deep curiosity within Aurelia, her gaze fixed on the king's condition with a mixture of intrigue and concern.

She watched intently as Alina moved with steady hands, selecting a small earthen jar from the table. Dipping two gloved fingers into the thick salve within, Alina began to apply the ointment to the king’s afflicted skin. Her touch was careful, working the salve into each swollen joint with slow, deliberate circular motions, ensuring it reached deep beneath the surface. She paused only to dip her fingers once more into the jar, then continued her task, her expression unreadable, wholly focused on her task. 

Aurelia remained utterly absorbed, her gaze fixed on Alina’s every movement, curiosity flickering in her eyes. So intent was she on observing the treatment that she failed to notice the occasional glances cast her way. From behind the silver mask, Baldwin’s gaze shifted to her from time to time, curious, perhaps, about this unfamiliar face quietly standing in his chamber.

As Alina finished the final strokes of salve, she withdrew in silence, wiping her fingers clean upon a cloth. Without utterance, Rami stepped forth, taking up the linen strips with practiced hands. Gently he wound the bandages around the king’s hands, mindful not to press too tightly upon the swollen joints. Layer upon layer, he secured them with swift precision, the ease of long familiarity guiding his every motion. Once the task was done, he stepped back and quietly took his place beside Aurelia.

"Come, Aurelia," he murmured gently. "The time has come for us to take our leave." 

She cast one final glance toward the king, his eyes once again meeting hers, calm and unreadable beneath his silver mask. With a respectful, low, and graceful bow, she turned and followed Rami out of the chamber, leaving Alina and Elias to complete their sacred duty in solemn privacy.

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

Aurelia grasped the wooden bowl, filled with the poultice she had wrought, its warmth seeping into her hands as she made her way to the maid, who lay suffering from fever and chills, at Alina’s bidding.

The guard who accompanied her led her through the narrow, shadowed corridors until they reached a small chamber, hidden within the eastern wing of the palace. The door groaned on its hinges as they pushed it open, unveiling a modest room dimly lit by the faint glow of a single candle.

A maid, pale as death and curled beneath heavy blankets, lay in bed, her brow flushed with fever. She shifted weakly, a soft groan escaping her lips, as a wave of discomfort washed over her.

"Excuse me," she murmured softly, stepping into the room and carefully setting the bowl upon the small table beside the bed.

The maid’s eyes fluttered open, her gaze hazy and weary, as she blinked up at Aurelia through the feverish fog that clouded her vision.

"Who... who are you?"

"I’m Aurelia," she replied softly, offering the maid a warm smile, though she could see how the girl’s strength seemed to wane with each breath. "I’m here to help with your fever."

The maid offered a faint smile, her lips parched as she shifted slightly in her bed.

"I fear I know not what to make of all these new remedies. Naught seems to ease it," she murmured quietly, her voice heavy with weariness.

"I know," Aurelia murmured, her expression softening with understanding. "It is never easy when the body battles such afflictions. But I am here to aid you. I have brought a poultice that should ease your pain and help bring down the fever."

"Will it work?" Her gaze drifted to the bowl, and she gave a faint nod.

"It will," Aurelia assured her. "The herbs will soothe your body, calm the fever, and ease the aches. It may not be an instant cure, but it shall offer you some relief." Aurelia seated herself beside the bed, her hands gentle as she placed the bowl upon her lap.

The girl swallowed, clearly struggling to summon the strength to sit up. Aurelia assisted her, propping pillows behind her back, and then carefully took the poultice in hand.

"Hold still, but a moment," Aurelia said softly, smoothing a warm, damp cloth across the girl’s forehead to wipe away the sweat that had gathered there.

"Thank you," The girl relaxed further into the bed, her body beginning to yield to the soothing warmth of the herbs.

"Rest now," Aurelia whispered, placing the final cloth over her chest and stepping back, allowing the poultice to take effect. "The herbs will work their magic in time."

The girl nodded, her breathing growing steadier as she sank deeper into the comfort of the bed, her body at last releasing some of its tension. Aurelia remained at her side for a time, watching as the fevered flush slowly retreated from the girl's cheeks, replaced by the pale yet more peaceful countenance of one who had at last found some measure of rest.

"Sleep now," Aurelia whispered once more, her voice scarcely above a breath. "I shall check on you later, when you awaken."

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

Aurelia made her way down the corridor, arms folded loosely before her, her thoughts pleasantly tangled in the quiet satisfaction of the day’s labour. The scent of herbs still clung faintly to her sleeves, and the image of the resting maid lingered in her mind, peaceful, warm, and no longer trembling from the fever that had once gripped her.

She rounded the corner toward her quarters, until—

"Aurelia!"

She blinked, startled, as a voice called her name. Turning, she found Selene hurrying toward her, a tray balanced upon her hands, upon which sat a covered dish and a flask of something that bore the faint scent of cinnamon and cloves.

"Selene," Aurelia smiled, caught off guard. "I did not expect to see you so soon again."

"And I did not expect to spend my evening dining alone," Selene declared, her tone light and playful as she raised the tray higher. "I have but just escaped the kitchens with something somewhat worthy and thought to extend a most gracious offer."

"Do you bid me to dine with you?" Aurelia asked, one brow raised.

"Indeed I am, though only if you promise we shall talk so much," Selene grinned.

"In that case, I accept, on one condition," Aurelia laughed, a true, sudden sound that startled even her.

"Name it." Selene raised a brow.

"That we dine in my quarters," Aurelia said with a small grin. "I have yet to make it feel like mine. Perhaps your company will aid in that."

"I’m in. Lead the way,"

· ·𓆩 ꫂ ၴႅၴ 𓆪· ·

Aurelia’s chamber was modest, a humble contrast to the opulence of the palace, yet it was tidy and bathed in the soft glow of flickering candlelight. The window had been left ajar just enough to invite the cool night air within. The two women settled by the hearth, the tray placed between them, its contents soon unveiled: a loaf of warm bread, creamy cheese, dried figs, honey, and a roasted chicken leg for each.

"Very well," Selene said, tucking her legs beneath her as she tore into a piece of bread. "You must tell me everything. You vanished this morning and returned looking as though you'd wrestled with a ghost."

"What?" Aurelia nearly choked on a fig.

"Don’t hide anything from me!" Selene leaned in, her eyes wide with curiosity. "Word spreads faster than wildfire. I heard from a maid, who heard from a lady-in-waiting, who heard from a kitchen boy that you were in the king’s chambers this morning, alongside the other physicians."

"I wasn’t supposed to speak of it…" Aurelia flushed, her gaze falling as she broke off a piece of bread.

"And yet you will, because we are now dear friends and I’ve brought you dinner." Selene leaned back dramatically, hand to her chest.

"Very well. But you must promise not to speak of it to anyone." Aurelia stifled a laugh.

"My lips are sealed," Selene whispered, then took a very noisy sip from her cup.

"I only observed," Aurelia began, her eyes growing thoughtful. "Alina and Elias are the ones permitted to tend his Majesty. Rami wrapped the bandages. I merely stood by."

"And did his Majesty speak to you?" Selene asked, eyes glittering.

"He did,"

"Well, go on then!" Selene exclaimed, throwing up her hands. "You can’t leave it at that, you wicked thing."

Aurelia hesitated for a long moment, then said, "Two things have not left my thoughts since: his gaze… and his hands."

"That’s quite the leap." Selene blinked.

"I know!" Aurelia groaned, covering her face with her hands. "It’s foolish, truly. But his eyes, they were… I don’t know, clear and kind, yet sharp. As though he sees right through you. And his hands, Selene, I’ve never seen hands like his. The illness has taken so much from him, and yet… the way he moved, the dignity he held…" She trailed off.

"You’re enchanted." Selene cast a sly grin her way. She knew well that Aurelia was as taken aback by the king as all others, and she could not resist teasing her a little.

"I am not!"

"You are!" she teased, nudging her with a laugh.

"It’s not like that," Aurelia insisted, but her cheeks were pink, and Selene’s knowing look didn’t help.

"Mm-hmm. Tell me more of these eyes that plague your thoughts, you tragic poet."

"I will throw this fig at you."

"I dare you."

The two girls dissolved into giggles then.

"And you? What is it that you do here, exactly?" Aurelia tilted her head and asked.

"Well," Selene sat up a bit straighter, her grin giving way to something more proud. "I tend to the chambers of Lady Agnes."

"Lady Agnes…" Aurelia blinked. "The king’s mother?"

"The very same," Selene said, reaching for the cheese. "She does not reside in the palace full-time, she remarried years ago after her union with King Amalric was annulled. But she visits often. And when she does, we all tremble like mice in a chapel."

"She’s that fearsome?"

"Fearsome?" Selene snorted. "She could silence a room with a single glance. Strict as iron, but brilliant. A true woman of power. She served as regent when his Majesty took the throne so young, though she has since withdrawn from court matters. Still, when she visits, naught is out of place."

"Does anyone offer you aid?"

"No, I alone am permitted within her chambers. For unlike the others, I know better than to lay a hand upon her combs, misplace her rosary, or open the wrong drawer," Selene nodded with mock seriousness.

"What’s in the wrong drawer?" Aurelia gasped.

"No one knows." Selene gave a dramatic shudder. "And I’ve no wish to be the one who finds out."

They both burst into laughter once more, Aurelia clutching her side as she sank back against the pillows.

"I’m glad you came" she said between breaths. "I needed this."

"Of course," Selene replied, her voice warm. "This palace can be much to bear at times. One must seek joy where they may, in friendship, in bread, and on occasion, in the mysterious eyes of our masked king."

Aurelia groaned, snatched a pillow, and flung it at her.

"Admit it!" Selene ducked and cackled.

"I will admit only that the bread is excellent."

"Liar."

They ate, laughed, and conversed until the candles flickered low and the palace outside fell silent into the stillness of night. As Selene bade her goodnight and slipped into the corridor, Aurelia lingered a while longer, her thoughts once more adrift, back to the morning light, the gleam of silver, the tremble of a hand beneath linen, and the gaze that had, impossibly, felt like a question.

She then, seeking to occupy her mind, took up a book and sat beneath the window, her fingers wandering through its pages and words, seeking knowledge in each letter inscribed upon them.