Aine led the way, her graceful movements guiding the group to the dining area. Her little one, full of energy, dashed ahead to her designated spot at the dining table. Mira followed, her eyes wide with wonder at the sight that greeted her.

The dining room was a sight to behold. The long table, crafted from the finest wood,  nearly stretched the entire length of the hall. 

Intricate, colorful carvings of dragons adorned the table's surface, each one a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The chairs were large and majestic, fit for dragons of noble lineage.

As everyone settled into their seats, the meal was served, a hearty and filling spread. Mira turned to Aine, her heart heavy with questions. "Queen Aine, can you tell me about the state of the fairy world after my imprisonment? What has become of the clans?"

Aine's expression darkened for a moment before she replied, her voice tinged with sadness. "The clans are unharmed, but they were deeply troubled by the near annihilation of the forest clan. They cut off all contact with each other for a time, fearing an attack that never came."

She continued, "At the clans' meeting, held every 100 years and coinciding with the 100-year anniversary of your imprisonment, they discussed the forest clan's absence and its effects on the world. The forest fairy clan, as you know, are responsible for rich soil and bountiful harvests in the world, which began to suffer almost immediately after you were all gone."

Mira felt a pang of guilt at the thought of causing so much worry while being unable to help. 

Aine continued, "Each of the three remaining leaders tried to break your prison to set you free, but all were unsuccessful. They returned home with sorrow in their hearts."

Tears welled up in Mira's eyes as she looked down at her plate. Aine and Cedric both moved to console her, and even Scylla tried to offer comfort by climbing onto her lap.

Wiping away her tears, Mira thanked them and smiled softly, trying her best to appear strong. 

However, before Zephyr could offer his own words of comfort, the grand door to the dining hall swung open, revealing a red lizard man in a state of urgency.

He reported that the Fire Fairy clan urgently needed aid, as a horde of demonic beasts had broken through the barrier to their village.

Aine immediately ordered Zephyr to lead a force to assist the fire fairies. 

Mira jumped up to help, but then remembered her ward, Cedric. Noticing her hesitation, Cedric reassured her, insisting he would be safe with Queen Aine and the young princess.

With her heart at ease over the Prince's safety within Cirreck, Mira joined Zephyr as they gathered the troops and took to the skies. 

They began making their way towards the Fire Fairy clan, with Mira determined to aid her fellow fairies in need as redemption for the time she couldn't save her own people.