Chapter 10: Whispers in the Moonlight

It was the brightest full moon, and Princess Marina looked more stunning than its silver glow. She was dressed in a magnificent gown that sparkled like liquid gold under the candle-lit chandeliers. The bodice was embroidered with intricate floral patterns in fine silver thread and embellished with delicate pearls and gemstones. The long, flowing skirt cascaded gracefully behind her like a dream woven of silk. Her ethereal look was completed by a sheer ivory lace veil embellished with subtle gold embroidery.

Aria beamed with pride, knowing that she, Kendalina, Rosy, and Peter had played a crucial role in designing the dress. Kendalina was the palace's chief seamstress, known for her exquisite needlework. Rosy, a gentle and artistic soul, was responsible for embroidery and intricate detailing, while Peter, the young and meticulous assistant, ensured that every piece of fabric and embellishment was of the highest quality.

The wedding was unlike anything Aria had ever seen. The palace was a grand spectacle, its towering walls adorned with golden tapestries, and lanterns hung above, casting a magical glow over the marble courtyard. The main hall was decorated with fresh roses and lily garlands, which filled the air with a sweet fragrance. Music played by skilled harpists and flautists echoed throughout the halls, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.

She sighed, whispering to herself, "Why couldn't I bring Mum and Dad?" The thought of her parents tugged at her heart. She missed them dearly, but at least she had Rogers. Kendalina and Liesha had also become her family in this unfamiliar era. Even Rogers had grown close to everyone. Kendalina, despite resembling his sister, carried the same warmth and fierce loyalty. And Liesha—though a goat—spoke with such wisdom and wit that one often forgot her true form.

As Aria mused, she overheard a playful exchange between Rogers and Liesha.

"You know, if I weren't a goat, I think you'd be quite smitten with me," Liesha teased, flicking her tail.

Rogers smirked. "If you weren't a goat, Liesha, I'd be running for my life. You're way too sharp for me!"

Liesha let out a snort, "Ah, you men, always scared of a woman's intelligence."

Before Aria could laugh at their banter, the Queen arrived with her maids and attendants. She instructed Aria and Kendalina to prepare Marina for the final touches before the royal ceremony began.

The wedding rituals commenced with grandeur. The couple exchanged garlands woven with rare flowers, symbolizing unity and prosperity. A ceremonial wine, blended with herbs for longevity and wisdom, was shared between the bride and groom. Then, as per tradition, the royal priest recited an ancient blessing, sealing the union under the full moon's gaze.

Aria was walking back to her cottage from the celebrations, carrying a small basket of fresh blooms, when she noticed something. A shadow moved quickly and cautiously near the palace's eastern wall. A thief? Her heart pounded, but curiosity got the best of her. She left the basket on a nearby ledge and decided to follow the silhouette.

The shadow moved through the palace gardens and into the dark woods beyond. Aria hesitated on the forest's edge. Except for the occasional rustle of leaves, it was unusually quiet. As she moved cautiously forward, a low, menacing growl echoed through the trees.

Her breath hitched. A wolf.

Fear gripped her, and she was about to turn around when she realised she was completely alone. The guards were not in sight. The wolf's gleaming eyes locked on hers, and its muscles tensed as it prepared to pounce.

Suddenly, a man appeared from the shadows. He moved quickly to position himself between Aria and the beast. A sharp glare from him was all it took to send the wolf into the darkness.

Aria, frozen in shock, felt her pulse race as she noticed the stranger's presence. His face was obscured by the night, but his piercing eyes—those eyes—were unmistakable

They were the same as King Valemont's.

The man stepped closer, his voice a deep whisper, "What were you thinking, following a stranger like that? Anything could have happened to you. Go back to the palace."

Aria was breathless, unable to respond immediately. His presence was powerful yet comforting. The way he had protected her—it felt strangely familiar.

As he turned to leave, instinct took over. "Thanks, Adrian," she whispered.

He halted mid-step.

The silence between them was deafening. He slowly turned to face her, his gaze fixed on hers. There was one moment—a heartbeat—when their eyes spoke volumes. Then, as suddenly as he appeared, he vanished into the night.

Aria stood there, her mind spinning.

She had found him.

Adrian was alive.

Racing back to the cottage, she burst inside and found Kendalina waiting. "You won't believe what just happened!" she gasped.

Kendalina raised an eyebrow. "Try me."

Aria recounted everything, her words tumbling over one another in excitement. "Never imagined this meeting could be so cinematic!" she finally exclaimed.

Kendalina frowned. "What's cinematic?"

Aria chuckled, shaking her head. "Nothing. Just... something from my world."

But she knew. She knew Adrian would not be able to sleep that night, either.