Marina woke Ariadna early, her voice gentle but firm. "From now on, there will be no skipping morning prayers. Your mother wishes to see you before that."
Ariadna dressed in simple black robes, her hair neatly braided. "Lord Vayan is waiting to escort you, my lady," Marina added. Ariadna nodded, a frown creeping onto her face. Despite his friendly attitude, she hated her brother.
As she opened the door, she found Vayan standing in his light leather armor. He was undeniably handsome, but there was a commanding presence about him that made her uneasy. He looked at her with a smile and bowed slightly. "Good morning, my beautiful sister."
Ariadna responded with a passive expression. "Let us go to our mother first. We'll walk to prayer afterward," he instructed.
Together, they made their way through the dark yet bustling castle. Servants hurried about, preparing for prayers, guests, and breakfast. When they reached the ornately carved wooden door of the queen's study, Vayan paused, falling back a step. "I'll wait for you here."
Ariadna nodded and knocked softly on the door. It creaked open at her touch. Inside, her mother was seated in a tall wooden chair behind a sturdy desk. This was Ariadna's first time entering the study, and she took in the grand space—dark wooden shelves lined with books, thick red carpets, and a magnificent fireplace shaped like a phoenix.
"Welcome to the family," her mother began, her voice steady and commanding. "As an official member now, you must follow a strict routine. You are blessed by the God, and you shall represent Him with dignity. Every morning, you will attend prayers, and afterward, Vayan will train you in combat and religious teachings. It's vital that you understand the ways of the God. Following lunch, your afternoon will be spent studying history and social skills with the heir of the God of Night. After dinner, you'll attend evening prayers. When Vayan deems you ready, you will begin lessons from me on how to wield the divine flame."
Her mother paused, casting a brief glance at Ariadna before returning her gaze to the fire. "That will be all for now. I will be watching you closely, so we shall see each other more often. Go now."
Ariadna stood and bowed her head respectfully. As she left the study, a wave of unhappiness washed over her. "Here we go, let the brainwashing begin." she thought to herself.
Vayan stepped up beside her, and together they made their way toward the temple, the weight of her new responsibilities settling on her shoulders.