Seraphina stood in front of the mirror, dressed in a simple, elegant gown with a modest hood that concealed her distinct features. Today, she wasn't Lady Vale or the Crown Prince's aide — she was simply Seraphina. With a determined breath, she walked out of her chambers.
Waiting outside the palace gates were Prince Aven and Prince Kael — both in casual, civilian clothes, the simplicity of their appearance concealing their high birth. Kael stood near the carriage, his eyes scanning for her.
The moment Seraphina appeared, Kael's heart skipped. But then, from behind her, Aven stepped forward and gently took her hand, leading her toward the carriage. Kael's eyes twitched at the sight. He forced a smile, but the crackling jealousy beneath was visible to anyone looking close.
As they reached the carriage, Kael extended his hand toward Seraphina, "Allow me—"
But she walked past it, choosing instead to help young Prince Aven into the carriage, her focus entirely on the child.
Kael's hand froze mid-air, a bitter mix of disbelief and regret washing over him.
From the shadows, Lord Thorne leaned against a pillar, arms crossed, a smirk curling his lips. He stepped closer and whispered into Kael's ear, just low enough for only him to hear:
"The war begins… and young Aven scores one more point."
Kael clenched his jaw.
---
In the Market
The bustling marketplace was alive with color, scents, and chatter. Prince Aven and Seraphina walked hand in hand, her hood slightly back now, revealing soft glimpses of her features. They paused before a quaint herb shop, and Kael followed a few steps behind, sulking silently.
Aven glanced over his shoulder at Kael and, with a devilish grin, stuck out his tongue before turning his attention back to Seraphina. Kael's fists tightened. That brat…
But then, the light mood shattered.
The shopkeeper — a middle-aged man arranging herbs — suddenly collapsed to the ground. His body lay still, pale, and trembling. Panic erupted around them.
Seraphina immediately knelt beside him, checking his pulse. Her expression darkened.
"He's… dead," she whispered.
She looked up at Kael, silently shaking her head.
Kael stepped forward, eyes narrowing. "Thorne," he called sharply. "Get the royal physician. Now."
Thorne nodded and vanished into the crowd.
Kael then turned to his guard. "Escort Prince Aven back to the palace. Now."
Though the little prince was reluctant, Seraphina's firm nod assured him. Aven let go of her hand, watching her with worried eyes as he was led away.
Kael stood by her side, silent for a moment.
Then he whispered, "He is not the first person who die like this, isn't it?"
Seraphina didn't respond. But her silence said enough.