Serena's POV
I walked down the halls and straight into the west wing, my steps carrying me toward the illusion room as if pulled by something unseen.
"Your Majesty," the guards stationed there greeted.
I offered them a small smile and a nod, then pushed the door open and stepped inside.
The door closed behind me.
And there it was.
Home.
My breath caught as I moved closer, my knees giving way as I sank to the floor before it. I watched the illusion in silence, a soft smile tugging at my lips.
I reached out, weaving my magic gently into it.
Warmth bloomed beneath my touch—calm, familiar, welcoming. It felt like open arms, like a voice calling my name.
Slowly, the illusion shifted.
The world unfolded again before my eyes: the people, the laughter, the moments I had lived and loved. Every memory shimmered with life—every emotion vivid and real.
It was beautiful.
And for the first time in what felt like forever, my heart felt still.
