All Chapters of Hearts and Ashes: Chapter 31 - Chapter 40

ARWYNSora's eyes widened in surprise, and I felt Thrystan's gaze on me, boring holes through the side of my face. It was intense, almost palpable.The room fell into a brief, awkward silence, broken only by the soft clinking of cutlery and the distant murmur of servants as well as Jagger stifling a laugh in Sora's direction. Thrystan finally spoke, his voice calm but carrying an undercurrent of tension. "Mingling with the people is part of our duty, Sora. We are here to serve, not to isolate ourselves."Sora's face flushed, but she held her ground, her expression a mixture of defiance and embarrassment. "Of course, Thrystan," she replied, her voice tight. "I merely meant that it can be...unpleasant.""Unpleasant or not," Thrystan continued, his eyes never leaving mine, "it is necessary. We cannot turn our backs on our people, especially in times of need."Ahvi, trying to lighten the mood, raised her goblet. "To mingling, then! And to doing our duty with grace and courage." She smiled

ARWYNThe best thing to do was to skip breakfast, knowing it would be just me and Thrystan at the First Ember table since everyone else was at practice.My hands had been clammy all morning, despite the weather cooling off for winter. Occasionally, I found myself glancing over my shoulder, unable to shake the feeling that I was being watched. The anxiety gnawed at me, making it hard to concentrate on anything else.For the next three days, I patrolled the lower grounds of the palace, exploring every corner and room, learning their uses and histories. Breakfast was always skipped, and I had Ingrid gather an array of sweets and pastries to keep me confined to my quarters until dinner. Dinner was safer; the dining hall was full, allowing me to blend into the crowd and avoid any unwanted attention from Thrystan.On the last day before the Sun Festival, I finally stepped out into the warmth of the day. The sunlight felt like a gentle embrace, momentarily easing my worries. I noticed a loos

ARWYNThe first Embers stood at the grand entrance of the palace. Massive oak doors, intricately carved with scenes of ancient battles and mythical creatures, stood open to welcome the guests. As they stepped inside, they were greeted by a sweeping staircase that led to the upper levels of the castle. The hallways were lined with towering columns, each adorned with gilded vines and blooming with enchanted flowers that glowed softly in the dim light. Rich red silk depicting the kingdom’s color, hung on the walls, and the air was filled with the subtle fragrance of exotic spices and fresh roses.At the top of the staircase, Thrystan stood, embodying the essence of princely grace and nobility. A deep blue velvet doublet, embroidered with silver thread that shimmered in the torchlight, and a cloak of the finest ermine draped elegantly over his shoulders. A circlet of gold, set with a single sapphire, rested on his brow, highlighting his regal bearing. His boots, polished to a mirror-lik

THRYSTAN"Shouldn't you be in something red or green to attract your future lord husband?"Elaria swiveled to glare at me, her expression mirroring the same mix of boredom and frustration I felt. This wasn't the first time we had to feign enjoyment in this life of constant attention. She glanced down at her black dress, edged with dark red lace."Oh, please. I'd sooner be eaten mercifully by dragons than feed Father's ego any more than it already is," she said, her gaze drifting to the King, who stood in the far corner with a guest, accompanied by Mother. "I won't give him that satisfaction.""And you do not worry about the consequences of this action?"She shook her head defiantly. "Not exactly."Ever since Elaria faced Pete at the Wreath, she'd grown increasingly confident, stretching her wings little by little. It was as if confronting that danger had assured her she could withstand even our father's wrath. She was a Diremage, after all."You still look pretty in your mourning dres

ARWYNThe drumbeats thrummed through the air, the jeers and cheers of the crowd gradually fading into a reverent hush as the King rose to his feet. With a commanding presence, he raised his hand, a gesture that seemed to quiet the very winds. Slowly, he turned from side to side, his gaze sweeping across the assembled throng like a savior acknowledging his subjects."Welcome, noble lords and ladies, esteemed guests, and valiant knights," the King began, his voice resonating with authority. "Today, we gather to witness the prowess and bravery of our finest warriors in this grand joust. Let the spirit of chivalry and honor guide their lances and hearts."The crowd erupted into applause, the anticipation palpable. The King continued, "May this tournament be a testament to our kingdom's strength and unity. Let the games commence, and may the best knight prevail!"As he resumed his seat, the trumpets blared, signaling the start of the joust. Knights in gleaming armor rode out onto the field