Morning arrived far too swiftly for Selene's liking. Her restless night, plagued by troubling thoughts and unanswered questions, seemed to stretch into an endless twilight. As dawn's first light filtered through the sheer curtains of her chamber, it did little to comfort her, only casting long shadows that mirrored her uneasy state.
Almost immediately, her three maidens entered the room with their customary quiet reverence, heads bowed in respect. Selene, barely awake, waved them on with a tired gesture, her mind still tangled in thoughts of the previous night. The soft rustling of their garments and the subtle scent of lavender perfumed oils from the bath they prepared filled the air, momentarily grounding her in the present.
As the maidens worked, Selene stood before her large, ornate mirror. The reflection that met her eyes was one of meticulous preparation: a white flared skirt made from luxurious thick cotton that brushed softly against her legs, complemented by a brown leather armless bodice hugging her torso with the tight embrace of a corset, cinched at the back with a slim rope. Soft, brown leather sandals adorned her legs, offering both comfort and grace.
More scented oils were applied to her skin, their warm fragrance mingling with the morning air, creating a soothing, almost hypnotic effect. Her golden hair was pulled back into a high ponytail, the hairpins tugging at her scalp with a familiar but unwelcome discomfort. Lost in her reflection, Selene admired how the outfit flattered her form. Just as she was about to turn away, Iris burst into the room, her presence a whirlwind of energy and excitement.
"Selene, Selene! We're going to be late for practice!" Iris's voice was a bright, urgent call that cut through the quiet of the morning.
"Goodness! Girl, where do you get this energy from? It's too early for this," Selene replied, stifling a yawn and shaking her head with a playful scowl.
"Oh, never mind that. Come on, you won't be here for long," Iris said, practically bouncing on her toes. "I was hoping we'd spend some more time together."
Selene wordlessly adjusted her belt and followed Iris, who had already started toward the door. As they made their way to the training grounds, Selene noticed that Iris had chosen to wear an identical outfit. Her surprise was tinged with exasperation and slight annoyance.
"You have got to be joking! Iris, why are you dressed like me? No, scratch that, how did you know this is what I would wear?" Selene asked, her tone a mix of incredulity and disbelief.
Iris met her gaze with a look that seemed to say the answer was obvious. "Because I know you, Selene." She flashed a bright smile, her large, striking blue eyes twinkling with mischief. "I knew you'd wear this, so I had my maids dress me the same way."
Selene stopped abruptly, her heart skipping a beat. Iris's words struck a chord. The ease with which Iris had anticipated her choice highlighted just how deep their bond was. Despite the four-year age difference between them, their connection felt seamless and unbreakable.
"Selene! What are you waiting for? Come on!" Iris called out, her voice filled with eager impatience.
A genuine smile spread across Selene's face as she resumed her pace, quickening her steps to catch up with Iris. The open field of the reserved training ground lay ahead.
Selene and Iris laughed together as they shared gossip about the events from yesterday, their cheerful voices echoing across the open training field. The morning sun cast a warm glow over the expanse of green, and the gentle breeze carried the faint scent of blooming flowers nearby. The spacious training grounds were surrounded by towering oak trees, separating them from the forest reserved for their hunting games, their leaves rustling softly, adding a soothing backdrop to their lively practice.
Their instructor, a seasoned warrior who had trained them since childhood, stood at a distance, observing with a quiet, approving gaze. His presence was only necessary as he rarely intervened, trusting in the skills he had imparted. His silence was a testament to their proficiency—Selene and Iris had long mastered the art of archery and swordsmanship, and their skill was evident in every practiced movement.
Iris, though enthusiastic, missed a few of her shots, the arrows veering off the bullseye. Selene, ever the patient teacher, demonstrated the correct technique with ease. Her graceful stance and precise aim made it clear why she was the most skilled archer among King Lycaon's children. As she was about to release another arrow, Iris's voice broke through her focus.
"Remember when I told you about Prince Kang Dae's companion?" Iris's tone was light, but her eyes sparkled with mischief.
Selene rolled her eyes but didn't lower her bow. "Mm-hmm, I remember. So, what about him?"
"I invited him to meet me during training," Iris said, her excitement palpable.
Selene, without missing a beat, shot her arrow with a smooth flick of her wrist. It struck the bullseye, even as the wind swirled around them strongly, tugging at their heavy skirts. Her concentration remained unshaken, though her curiosity was piqued.
"Yeah, good for you. But how is this my business?" Selene asked, her voice tinged with indifference.
"Well," Iris hesitated, "I told him to bring Prince Kang Dae along."
Selene's head snapped around, her eyes widening with disbelief. "You did what?" Her voice rose, filled with frustration but mostly shock. The arrow in her hand flew from her grip, finding its mark on the bullseye despite her distraction.
"Why would you do that?" Selene's tone was a mixture of exasperation and concern. She had hoped she'd be able to sneak off to pay Andreas a visit.
Iris looked sheepish, her cheeks flushing slightly. "I thought it would be nice for you to meet him so you guys could get along before you leave with him. I didn't think you'd mind."
"For the love of Hera! Iris, I swear on the gods, of course I mind. You should have asked me first." Selene's fingers massaged her temple as she began to formulate a way to get away, just for a moment. She had to see Andreas.
"You don't look happy about this arrangement," came a deep voice that startled both princesses.
Selene's heart skipped a beat as she turned towards the source of the voice. Standing at the edge of the training field, partially obscured by the shadows of the trees, was Prince Kang Dae. His imposing figure was draped in a flowing hanbok, its earthy brown fabric adorned with intricate golden threads that glinted in the sunlight. The fabric swayed slightly with his every movement, adding to his air of enigmatic elegance.
Selene's breath caught in her throat. The prince's presence was as commanding as it was unexpected. His eyes, dark and penetrating, locked onto hers with an intensity that made her pulse quicken. She felt a mix of irritation and intrigue as she tried to steady herself, quickly wearing her facade, lifting her walls high.
Iris's face lit up with a nervous but hopeful smile. "Oh, Prince Kang Dae! We were just discussing you and your companion."
Kang Dae's gaze shifted from Selene to Iris, a subtle smile playing on his lips. "Indeed. I couldn't help but overhear your plans, though Kim Namjoon hasn't told me anything yet."
"Oh my! He was supposed to. We discussed yesterday night after your welcome party." Iris's voice feigned an apologetic tone, while Selene's face remained blank.
"I hope my unexpected arrival hasn't disrupted your practice." The prince took a step closer, his attention entirely on Selene as his eyes took in every inch of her. He would be a fool to deny that she truly was breathtaking.
Selene internally struggled to maintain her composure. She found herself drawn to the prince despite her best efforts. His demeanor was relaxed, almost casual, even though he wore his royal regalia, but there was an undercurrent of something more, something that unsettled her. She met his gaze with a mixture of defiance and curiosity, her mind racing with questions.
"Not at all," Selene replied, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside. "I suppose we have you to thank for this distraction." She turned her scolding gaze to Iris, who sheepishly stared at everywhere but Selene.
Kang Dae's eyes softened slightly, though his smile remained enigmatic and somewhat playful. "It seems I've arrived at a fortuitous moment. Perhaps we can continue our discussion elsewhere. You clearly don't need the practice."
Selene felt a pang of annoyance at his nonchalance, but she couldn't deny the intrigue his presence stirred within her. Of course she knew she didn't need this kind of practice; she only came to spend time with her sister. Iris, ever the perceptive one, noticed the tension and stepped in to diffuse it.
"Why don't we all head to the pavilion?" Iris suggested brightly. "We can discuss everything in a more comfortable setting."
Selene's face tightened. "I'd prefer to have breakfast," she said coldly, her gaze unwavering as she turned on her heel.
"Oh, I'll come along then," Iris said brightly, but Selene cut her off with a sharp edge to her voice.
"Alone," Selene replied firmly, her tone brooking no argument. Without another word, she walked briskly back towards the palace, her skirts swishing around her.
As she distanced herself, she caught snippets of the conversation behind her. Prince Kang Dae's voice was curious. "Is your sister always this uptight?"
Iris's laughter floated through the air. "Oh, don't be ridiculous. She just doesn't know you yet. I'm sure she'll warm up to you."
"You think so?" The curiosity was evident in his tone.
Selene continued her walk, the sound of Iris's laughter fading as they continued talking until it was lost to the distant echoes of the palace.
Once inside, she felt the cool, familiar white stone walls of the palace envelop her and soft, lush red carpets beneath her feet welcomed her. The serene corridors were a stark contrast to the turmoil she felt. Her footsteps were brisk as she made her way to the dining hall, her mind racing with thoughts of the prince and the unexpected disturbance.
It didn't matter. She was going to see Andreas today. She'd be getting married in a few days, and Selene knew she didn't have much time left. She had to say her goodbyes and make peace with the choices she was making.
As she entered the dining hall, the warm aroma of freshly baked bread and brewed tea greeted her. The long table was set with an array of fruits, pastries, and other breakfast delights. But Selene's appetite was overshadowed by her anxious thoughts.
Sitting down, she poured herself a cup of tea, hoping the calming ritual would bring some clarity. As she sipped the warm liquid, she resolved to find a way to sneak out and see Andreas before her duties and the looming marriage consumed all her time.
The door creaked open, and Selene's heart leapt to her throat, fearing it might be Iris or, worse, Prince Kang Dae. Instead, it was one of her loyal maidens.
"Princess Selene," the maiden said softly, "is there anything you require?"
Selene hesitated, then nodded. "Yes, actually. I need you to prepare my horse and inform no one. I plan to go for a ride after breakfast."
The maiden bowed and left without a word. Selene's mind was set. She would see Andreas today, no matter the consequences. She just hoped the gods would grant her this one last moment of freedom before her life changed forever.