"What was that?" I asked, my heart racing.
Prince Kael's eyes narrowed "I think our combined magic just revealed a clue to unlocking your true potential. The black tome... I've seen it in my dreams. It's said to hold the secrets of the ancient witches"
He pulled me closer, his voice taking on a sense of urgency "Lyra we need to find that book before the shadow does. Our gate and Luminaria's depends on it."
"Yes" I said then I heard my mom call me "Excuse me" I said politely and went over to my mom who was speaking to the king of dragons.
"Yes mother?"
"Lyra dear, the king of dragons and I were just discussing the recent strange occurrences in the land" my mother said, her eyes gleaming with a hint of concern. "With the shadow looming over us, we need to ensure our alliances are strong. King Tharros has offered to send his son Prince Ryder to our kingdom as a symbol of unity."
She paused, her gaze piercing mine "I want you to show him around Avarian-the kingdom of witches. Lyra make him feel welcomed."
I nodded "Of course, mother. I'll make sure Prince Ryder feels at home."
As I turned to leave, I caught Prince Kael's gaze, our eyes locking in a silent understanding. Our mission to uncover the secrets of my magic and defeat the shadow would have to be put on hold for now. I have a prince to host.
I had spoken to the other elders with my mom and left for our home.
********
As we arrived at our mansion, the night air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the chirping of nocturnal creatures. My mind wandered back to Prince Kael and our conversation. I was a bit confused about all these.
As I entered our mansion, I found my best friend, Aria, waiting for me in the sitting room. Her eyes sparkled with excitement "Lyra I heard about the meeting. What happened?"
I smiled "Let's go to my room, I'll tell you everything."
As we settled into my room, I recounted my encounter with Prince Kael, leaving out no detail. Aria listened with rapt attention, her eyes growing wider with each passing moment.
"Wow Lyra! This is huge!" She exclaimed. "You and Prince Kael working together to defeat the shadow? If someone told me this was gonna happen in the past few days I would have laughed my ass out"
I chuckled feeling a sense of relief "I know right. But it's not all fun and games. We have a lot work ahead of us."
Aria's expression turned serious "I'm here for you Lyra. We'll face whatever comes together."
"We will" I smiled at her. "Oh yeah my mom has asked me to show Prince Ryder around the mansion and make him feel welcome." I said to Aria and she was shocked.
"Like the prince of the dragon kingdom!? Heir to the throne!? That prince?" She asked excitedly. "Yes" I replied
Aria's eyes widened in awe "Lyra you're literally surrounded by princes! Prince Kael, the mysterious and brooding vampire prince and now Prince Ryder, the charming and powerful dragon prince. And not to forget they're both really hot" she winks at me "You're living a real-life fairy tale!"
I laughed, feeling a bit overwhelmed "I know. I can't believe it myself. And my mom wants me to play nice with Prince Ryder but I'm still thinking about my conversation with Prince Kael." I said honestly and Aria's expression turned mischievous.
"Well you know what they say...two princes are better than one!"
I playfully rolled my eyes. "Aria focus! This is about alliances not a love triangle."
But Aria's grin only grew wider "Oh c'mon Lyra. You can't deny the chemistry between you and Prince Kael and now Prince Ryder is entering the picture. This is getting interesting!"
My laughter echoed through the room. Aria's teasing had lifted my spirits, reminding me that even in the midst of uncertainty and danger, there was still room to joke around.
As we chatted and giggled, I realized Aria was right. My life had become a whirlwind of magic, mystery and princes but with my best friend by my side. I felt ready to face whatever lay ahead.