Shanea Forbidden Forest Village, 1509
Rynlyf smiled and replied, "I've served in her court for several years, helping with various matters." He continued, "She values loyalty and wisdom, and I believe you possess both."
Rhaenys looked intrigued and asked, "You really think so, Rynlyf?"
Rynlyf nodded, feeling confident in his assessment of her character.
Rhaenys smiled gratefully at Rynlyf. "Thank you for your kind words; they mean a lot to me," she said softly.
Rynlyf's expression brightened as he nodded in acknowledgment. "It's the truth, Rhaenys; you have so much potential."
Rhaenys then asked Rynlyf, "How old were you when you met Queen Seraphina?"
Rynlyf paused for a moment, recalling the day vividly. "I was just fifteen," he replied, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. "It was a pivotal moment in my life, one that shaped my path significantly."
Rhaenys listened intently, her interest piqued by his story. "What was she like back then?" she inquired eagerly.
Rynlyf smiled, reminiscing about the queen's grace and strength. "She was inspiring, even at a young age."
"Wow," Rhaenys said, her eyes wide with admiration. "Meeting her must have been an incredible experience!"
Rynlyf nodded, his smile growing as he continued. "It truly was. Queen Seraphina had this presence that made you feel like anything was possible."
Rhaenys leaned closer, captivated by his words. "I can only imagine how inspiring she must have been."
Rynlyf chuckled softly, his memories flooding back. "She had a way of making everyone believe in themselves."
"How old was she when she married Lord Aelric?" Rhaenys inquired, curiosity sparkling in her eyes.
Rynlyf paused for a moment, recalling the details. "She was just eighteen, full of dreams and ambition," he replied.
Rhaenys gasped, impressed by her youthful spirit. "That's so young! It must have shaped her into the queen she became."
Rynlyf nodded in agreement, a fond smile on his face. "Absolutely. Her early marriage fueled her determination to lead with grace."
Rhaenys then asked Rynlyf how old Queen Seraphina was when she had Princess Elara.
"Queen Seraphina was only twenty-two when she had Elara," Rynlyf said, his eyes lighting up with pride. "It was a challenging time for her, but she embraced motherhood while navigating the complexities of the crown."
"Wow, that's incredible and brave," Rhaenys said, her admiration evident.
Rynlyf smiled, appreciating her enthusiasm, and then said, "Agree."
Rhaenys then inquired about the age of Queen Seraphina when she had her second child, Joran.
"She was twenty-five when she had him," Rynlyf replied, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.
"That's just three years after Elara," Rhaenys remarked, impressed by the queen's resilience.
"Indeed, each child brought new challenges and joys," Rynlyf said, nodding thoughtfully.
Rhaenys felt inspired by Queen Seraphina's journey through motherhood and leadership. The conversation deepened her appreciation for the sacrifices royal families often make.
Rhaenys then asked about the names of Seraphina's parents.
"Her mother was Queen Isolde and her father was Lord Aelfric," Rynlyf answered, a fond smile crossing his face. "They were known for their wisdom and kindness," he continued.
Rhaenys listened intently, fascinated by the legacy that shaped Queen Seraphina.
"It's interesting how family backgrounds influence leadership styles," she mused. Rynlyf nodded in agreement, recognizing the importance of heritage in guiding one's path.
"Did Seraphina have any siblings?" Rhaenys inquired, her curiosity growing.
Rynlyf considered the question for a moment before responding, "Yes, she had a brother named Cedric." "Cedric was known for his bravery and loyalty," Rynlyf added, his pride evident.
Rhaenys leaned in closer, captivated by the dynamics of their family. "It's remarkable how each sibling can embody different traits," she remarked thoughtfully.
Rynlyf smiled, appreciating her insight, and replied, "Indeed, their unique qualities contributed to the family's legacy." The discussion deepened their understanding of the royal lineage and its impact on leadership.
Rhaenys pondered if her biological father had any other children.
She then reflected on her half-brother Connor, who is from their mother's side, and how much she missed him.
"Shall we continue our walk around the village?" Rynlyf asked, breaking the reflective mood.
Rhaenys nodded, eager to explore and perhaps find new connections within the community.
**************************************************************
Shanea Royal Palace Throne Room, 1509
The fairy knight stepped lightly into the grand throne room, the sound of his boots echoing off the marble floors. Each step resonated with purpose, drawing the attention of the royal family seated upon their ornate thrones. The vibrant tapestries depicting their lineage fluttered gently in the draft, as if whispering secrets of the past.
The fairy knight approached Queen Seraphina, bowing respectfully as he spoke, "Your Majesty." His voice was steady, filled with determination to serve and protect the realm.
"What is it you seek, noble knight?" Queen Seraphina inquired, her gaze penetrating yet kind.
The knight straightened, his eyes reflecting the weight of his message. "Your Majesty, I bring news of Rynlyf's return," he declared, his voice unwavering.
The air in the chamber grew tense at the mention of the ancient foe. "Rynlyf has returned?" she echoed, with a joyful tone in her voice.
"Yes, my Queen," he confirmed, his expression strong.
"But there is more," he added, pausing for a moment to gather his thoughts. "Rynlyf brought someone with him."
The queen's fascination mounted, and she leaned forward. "Who has he brought?" she asked, her voice filled with intrigue.
"He has brought a young woman with him, my queen," he revealed, with a neutral expression.
The queen's curiosity deepened as she pondered the significance of this newcomer. "What do we know about her?" she inquired, her eyes narrowing with interest.
"I do not know, my queen," he continued, his tone now slightly more animated.
Seraphina then instructed the knight to summon Rynlyf and the girl. "We must learn more about her," she said, her voice steady and commanding.
The knight stood at attention, addressing the queen. "Yes, my queen, right away," he replied, his demeanor respectful.
Seraphina watched him go, her thoughts swirling around the mysterious girl. The air in the room felt charged with anticipation as her mind raced with possibilities.
"This newcomer could change everything," she mused, her determination growing stronger.
The queen's resolve was clear; she was determined to uncover the truth behind the girl's presence. With each passing moment, Seraphina felt that her curiosity was transforming into a fierce need for answers.