The door to my chamber opened with a low, resonant hum, as if the mansion itself held its breath for me. I stepped forward hesitantly, Mira shadowing me, while the others stayed in the corridor. My hand trembled against the silver handle, and the moment I crossed the threshold, my heart froze.
It wasn't just a room. It was a mirror. A cruel, vivid echo of a place I swore I'd left behind.
The chamber spread out into a hall of gleaming crystal, high windows spilling with soft aurora light, walls etched with delicate engravings of the sun and moon. It was the throne room of the Aurora Kingdom. My throne room.
And with one glance, the memories came rushing back.
