The bright midday sun streamed through the large windows of King Aurelius’ office, illuminating the room with a natural, warm glow. 

Zephyr settled into one of the twin sofas near the king's desk as a maid served tea to both men before quietly exiting, leaving them alone in the stately office. The room was lined with shelves of books and scrolls, a testament to Aurelius' extensive rule and knowledge.

Zephyr watched as the king shuffled through a stack of papers, each requiring his signature or royal seal. After reaching the halfway point, Aurelius leaned back in his chair and exhaled a weary sigh, taking a moment to sip his tea.

"Now," Aurelius began, setting his cup down, "we may continue our conversation."

Zephyr cleared his throat, slightly nervous. Normally a dragon of few words, he found it challenging to express his true feelings. "Your Majesty," he started, "I need to talk about Mira."

Aurelius nodded his head slightly but remained silent, encouraging Zephyr to continue.

"Mira... she makes me feel things I don't understand," Zephyr admitted, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "These feelings are confusing, and I don’t know how to handle them."

Aurelius cupped his face in thought, considering Zephyr’s words carefully. After a few moments of contemplation, he spoke. 

"Zephyr, the best advice I can give you presently is to have a deep, honest discussion with Mira herself. She might help you understand these feelings better than anyone else ever could."

Zephyr chuckled softly, almost bitterly. "I didn't want to burden her with this, but I know you're right. Only she can truly help me find the answers I seek."

Aurelius nodded, the wisdom of his years in love evident in his gentle smile. "Sometimes, admitting that we need help is the hardest part. I'm glad you recognize it now."

Suddenly, Zephyr stood up, finishing his tea in one swift motion. He bowed deeply before Aurelius. "Thank you, Your Majesty, for the advice. I needed to hear this."

Aurelius walked over, clapping a hand on Zephyr's shoulder. "Anything for a future family member," he said with a cheeky wink.

The men chuckled heartily at this remark before Aurelius returned to his desk. "Now, you should go to her. I'll have someone guide you."

With a grateful nod, Zephyr left the office, accompanied by the same maid who had served the tea. His heart felt lighter, yet filled with resolve as he made his way to Mirella.

************************************************

Elsewhere in the castle, the meeting was just beginning. 

The construction crew, Mira, and Queen Evelina gathered in a spacious room. Tea and an assortment of snacks were served, and the youngest brothers, Jasper and Teddy, immediately began scarfing down the many different cookies and cakes, much to the chagrin of Yvette and Creed.

"Excuse us," Jasper mumbled through a mouthful of crumbs, dragging Teddy out to freshen themselves up.

Evelina and Mira chuckled at their antics, while Creed apologized for his younger brothers' behavior. 

"Don’t worry about it," Evelina reassured him. "They’re free to be themselves here."

Those words made Mira think of her own brother, Alastair, and the fact that he freely displayed his wings for all to see. Perhaps that was secretly the kingdom's motto, she mused to herself, smiling softly.

Clearing her throat, Mira brought the conversation back to the business at hand. 

"I'd like to request your skills for a large project that needs to be done rather quickly," she said to the crew.

Sylas' ears perked up at the prospect of a fast-paced job. "What’s the job?"

"My village is in shambles," Mira explained. "I need residences built to house new fairies who will be moving there in the coming future."

The crew was intrigued by this revelation. Isaac, the second eldest, chuckled. "I see why we were requested. No one builds as fast nor as well as we do. How soon can we start?"

Just then, Teddy and Jasper returned, settling back down. "What did we miss?" Jasper asked.

Ignoring them, Yvette looked to Creed, who nodded. "We’ll do it," she said, extending her hand to Mira.

Mira smiled broadly, shaking Yvette’s hand in gratitude. "Thank you so much. I can provide anything you need, just ask."

Evelina chimed in, "The royal family will happily fund this job and provide a generous salary for your help."

Mira nearly teared up at the queen's generosity but quickly composed herself. "Shall we head to Verhmina now so you can see what you’ll be working with?"

"Let’s!" The crew agreed enthusiastically.

As they prepared to leave, Zephyr appeared on the other side of the door as Mira opened it, looking both surprised and relieved to see her there.

"Can I talk to you in private?" he asked.

Mira glanced back at the expectant crew. "Can you come with us instead? We can talk once they get settled into their work."

Zephyr nodded. "Very well."

Following Mira's lead, the group, minus Evelina, made their way through the castle to its exit. Despite the challenges ahead, there was a sense of hope and determination among them, ready to rebuild and face whatever came next.