Chapter 67

AYRA'S POV

Sunlight speared through the gap in the curtains, painting a mocking stripe across my eyelids. I jolted awake, heart hammering a frantic rhythm against my ribs. A quick glance at the ornate clock confirmed my worst fears – I was late.

Leaping out of bed, fur bristling with panic, I scrambled into my designated training attire – a simple white tunic and breeches that felt far too restricting compared to my usual hunting attire. The bathroom was a blur of frantic splashing and hurried combing.

Reaching the main hall, I skidded to a halt, lungs burning. Nana, the ever-present head advisor, stood by the grand staircase, her crimson robes stark against the pale marble floor. Her face, usually creased in a genial smile, was now a thundercloud.

"Princess Ayra," she began, voice laced with icy disapproval, "punctuality is a cornerstone of leadership. A Luna Queen arrives early, not fashionably late."

Shame burned through me. "I apologize, Nana. I overslept. It won't happen aga