Chapter 4

Shadows in the Court

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The morning sun barely touched the highest towers of Salastian Palace when Aurelia made her way through the grand halls, her small hands clutching a stack of scrolls she had been studying the night before. Today was different — the air carried a tension she could feel in the shuffle of servants’ feet and the muted whispers that passed along the corridors.

Kairos, waiting near the training yard, grinned as she approached. “Late again, princess?” he teased, a glint of mischief in his stormy eyes.

“I was studying,” Aurelia replied, her voice steady, though her cheeks flushed slightly. “Knowledge, Kairos, is as sharp as any sword.”

He raised an eyebrow, smirking. “And yet, you still run circles around me in the yard.”

“I only let you win sometimes,” Aurelia said with a playful tilt of her head. “Otherwise, what would you learn?”

Kairos laughed, shaking his head. “I suppose even rivals need lessons. Very well, I accept your mercy… this time.”

By midday, Aurelia found herself summoned to the council chambers — a rare honor for someone her age. Courtiers murmured as she entered, their gazes curious, skeptical, and sometimes envious.

“Your Highness,” one elderly councilor said, bowing deeply, “it is… unusual to have the heir present for such discussions.”

Elisana, standing at the edge of the room, gave Aurelia an encouraging nod. “Listen, observe, and learn, Aurelia,” she whispered. “Even when you are young, your voice matters — but know when to speak, and when to wait.”

Marcus, seated at the head of the chamber, met her gaze. “Remember, child,” he said softly, “power is not just in words or magic. True strength lies in knowing when to act — and when to show restraint.”

Aurelia nodded solemnly, rolling the scrolls into her arms. She listened as nobles discussed matters of trade, borders, and alliances. It was complicated, and she felt the weight of the court’s expectations pressing down on her small shoulders.

It was during the discussion of border disputes with the neighboring kingdom of Valerian that trouble first appeared.

“Your Majesty,” a sharp-voiced Viscountess interjected, her eyes narrowing at Aurelia, “surely the child cannot comprehend the complexities of diplomacy at such a tender age.”

Aurelia felt the flush of anger rise in her chest, but she remembered her father’s lessons. Restraint. Observation. Understanding.

She raised her hand calmly. “Respectfully, Viscountess,” she began, her voice quiet but firm, “the matters of trade and borders affect all of Salastian. While I may be young, I have studied these issues with my tutors and my parents. If I may, I would like to propose a solution that considers both the security of the kingdom and the prosperity of the people.”

The room fell silent, and the councilors turned their eyes toward the young princess. Aurelia presented her ideas clearly, drawing diagrams and explaining trade routes and alliances. By the end, murmurs of approval had replaced the whispers of doubt.

Even Kairos, standing by her side as an observer, looked impressed. “Well done,” he whispered. “I didn’t expect such sharp thinking from anyone — let alone a princess.”

Aurelia’s lips curved into a small smile. “Thank you, Kairos. But I think you underestimate yourself too.”

As the council dispersed, Aurelia noticed a group of nobles exchanging secretive glances. Something was amiss.

“That Viscountess,” she murmured to Kairos, “I don’t think she truly supports our family. Her words were… pointed.”

Kairos narrowed his eyes. “Court politics are tricky. Envy and ambition can be as dangerous as swords.”

Over the next week, Aurelia observed subtle attempts to undermine her influence — gifts of misinformation, whispered lies, and attempts to sway advisors. She realized this was more than simple jealousy; it was a calculated effort to test her.

One evening, after returning from her lessons in magic, she confronted Kairos in the garden. “Do you think someone is trying to harm me?” she asked, her voice low.

Kairos studied her, the wind ruffling his dark hair. “I think you’ve just stepped into the first real game of the court. And games… are never fair.”

Aurelia’s hands clenched. “Then I will play by my own rules. I will protect the kingdom… and myself.”

Kairos smiled faintly. “I was hoping you’d say that. Because you are more than just a princess, Aurelia. You’re a force to be reckoned with.”

That night, Aurelia stood at her window, looking over the palace gardens lit by lanterns. The moon reflected on the fountain, silver and calm, and she whispered to herself:

I am the child of two suns. I will shine, even if shadows gather around me. I will be worthy of this kingdom, and I will not falter.

Outside, unseen in the darkness, eyes watched her every move. Duke Valerian’s agents had begun to maneuver, seeking leverage, and already, Aurelia’s first test had begun — one that would challenge her intelligence, her courage, and her heart.