Lysander watched Nerina's peaceful yet unsettling slumber with a heavy heart. He turned to the others in the room and spoke sharply, "Everyone, leave. I need privacy."
Eliana and the healers exchanged glances but quickly filed out, understanding the gravity of the situation. Augustus stayed, as Lysander made no move to dismiss him.
Once alone, Lysander knelt beside Nerina, gently placing his hand on her forehead. His fingers glowed faintly with magic as he examined her. "Her energy is fluctuating," he muttered, concern deepening. Without hesitation, he reached into his pocket space, pulling out a shimmering blue potion.
"This should stabilize her," Lys said, more to himself than Augustus. Carefully, he tilted the vial to Nerina's lips, allowing the liquid to flow into her mouth. She swallowed instinctively, her body slightly tensing before relaxing again.
Augustus stood by silently, his eyes never leaving Nerina. Lys glanced at him, his voice softening slightly. "She's always been resistant to external magic, but internal magic is a different story. When I got your letter, I knew this would happen. That's why I created this potion."
Augustus let out a breath of relief, the tension in his shoulders easing. "Thank you, Prince Lysander," he said quietly, his gratitude sincere despite the earlier punch.
Lys nodded curtly, his expression still hard. "You should have told me sooner. But for now... I would like to talk to you for a bit concerning Nerina."
Augustus met Lysander's gaze, feeling the weight of his presence. Lysander wasn't like the other nobles or even Nerina's other brothers. His aura was sharp, intense, and carried a sense of authority despite his decision to step away from the throne.
"Of course," Augustus replied, his voice steady though the tension between them was palpable.
After ensuring that Nerina was in the capable hands of the medics, Lysander and I quietly left her chamber, the heavy door closing behind us with a soft thud. The tension between us still lingered, though it had lessened after our earlier conversation.
"Your Majesty, I'm aware that this may come as a surprise, but I'm here to confess the truth about Nerina's hair color. The black hair she currently has is actually her natural color. I understand that this may seem like deception and I take full responsibility for my role in it but please, don't blame Nerina for this mistake. Instead, me and my brothers asked for her help. I'm sorry to say this but I won't be giving her anymore potions to change her hair color and if I might suggest, we present it as a necessary treatment for her condition, rather than a sudden change to prevent from shocking the people here."
"There's no need to apologize but I'm thankful because you did that and brought her to me."
"Nerina isn't related to us by blood. However, we really got along as any other siblings should... although she's a lot more closer to me than my two brothers."
Augustus remained silent, absorbing Lysander's words. It wasn't entirely surprising, yet hearing it confirmed out loud gave him pause. He had always sensed something different about Nerina, but he had never pressed the issue—choosing instead to accept her as she was.
"I see," Augustus finally replied, his voice calm but thoughtful. "I had my suspicions, yes. But it never mattered to me. Nerina has always been her own person, and she's earned her place here through her strength and wisdom, regardless of her origins."
Lysander nodded, looking relieved but still somber. "I appreciate that, Your Majesty."
They arrived at his office and ordered Javier to serve them tea. While waiting, Lysander continued, "One day, Nerina appeared at my doorstep, completely unaware of where she was or even what country she had wandered into. She seemed equally shocked by the presence of magic. I chose not to press her for details, opting to wait until she was ready to share her story with me. But before that moment came, she was chosen to become Your Majesty's bride. I tried to oppose my brother's decision but Nerina accepted his request without contempt," Lysander paused, a thoughtful look on his face.
"The first few days she went to this country, I was tempted to go here and bring her back to Aethorador even if it meant waging war with you," He stopped when Javier appeared and poured them before leaving them. "You see, Nerina's a little bit naive, so I was worried that you may have corrupted her 'innocence'."
He gave a small, reflective smile before continuing. "But it seems my worries were unfounded. Even in Aethorador, we heard about the deep bond you share with Nerina, and how she had grown into a remarkable Empress."
Augustus looked out the window, thinking of all the times Nerina had proven herself—her unwavering resolve, her kindness, and her fierce loyalty to the kingdom. "You're right, she's truly remarkable. She's one of the most extraordinary people I've ever known."
"I've been talking for a while now, and I think it's time for me to leave. Since Nerina seems to be doing well, I'll be off. When she wakes up, please tell her that everything is fine in Aethorador. Also, remind her to prioritize her own well-being and not be a shield for others. She has a tendency to put others' needs before her own, so it's essential that she takes care of herself first."
Augustus nodded, though a faint smile crossed his face at Lysander's final comment. "That sounds like her. Always putting others first. I'll make sure to remind her of your words when she wakes up."
Lysander gave a brief nod of appreciation. "Thank you, Your Majesty. And thank you for protecting her all this time. I have no doubt she's in good hands."
As Augustus moved to call for a servant, Lysander raised a hand to stop him. "There's no need for a carriage. I can teleport back to Aethorador." His tone was calm, but beneath it, there was a faint hint of urgency, as if he couldn't waste another second being away from home.
Augustus chuckled lightly. "Very well, Prince Lysander. Safe travels, and I hope Aethorador continues to thrive under your care."
With a final respectful nod, Lysander stepped back, muttering an incantation under his breath. In a flash of light, he was gone, leaving Augustus alone with his thoughts.
Staring at the now-empty space where Lysander had stood, Augustus turned back toward the window, his gaze softening as memories of Nerina surfaced once more.
Five days later, Nerina finally opened her eyes.