Lumina gave a weak smile, though it did not reach her eyes as her aunt revealed the news.
"So they really want me dead in two years… but why wait that long?" she asked softly, her voice carrying both fear and bitterness.
Seraphina's gaze was steady, "Because that is the time I have given them, Lumina. Nothing will happen before then."
Lumina tilted her head slightly, as if listening more closely. Every word her aunt spoke seemed to sink deep inside her chest, weighing heavily on her heart.
"That is why, within those two years, you must be ready to rise to the throne," Seraphina continued, her voice sharper now, carrying authority.
"Aunt…" Lumina whispered, frustration slipping into her voice. She wanted to protest, but the words caught in her throat.
