Kiss
The echoes of my boots resonated against the cold stone floors of Leora's castle, a rhythm that matched the racing beat of my heart. I clutched the intricately designed box in my hand, my fingers brushing against its cool surface.
Every step closer to the throne room felt heavy with anticipation. The adrenaline of the mission had numbed my earlier frustration, but the thought of Aeliana pulsed in the background an ember of warmth in this vast castle's chill.
I approached the grand door of the throne room, taking a moment to steady myself. I could hear the muffled voices of the king and Leora inside, their conversations mingled with the faint sounds of the castle staff bustling about.
Taking a deep breath, I pushed the door open, revealing the austere interior bathed in warm, flickering candlelight.
"Ciara!" Leora exclaimed, her face brightening as she spotted me. "You're back! Did you catch him?"