The cave was cold, but Seraphina couldn't focus on the chill. Her mind was racing. The sound of the soldiers searching outside grew fainter, but she couldn't shake the feeling that danger was still close.
Lyra sat across from them, her face serious. She had said they would be safe for now, but Seraphina couldn't stop thinking about the prophecy.
"The King is afraid of me," Seraphina said softly. "But why? What does the prophecy really mean?"
Lyra took a deep breath and looked at them both. "It's time I tell you everything."
Eryan moved closer, his curiosity obvious. "Tell us about the prophecy. What does it have to do with Seraphina and me?"
Lyra hesitated for a moment before speaking. "The prophecy speaks of two people who are meant to change the kingdom. One is the royal bloodline, and the other is a commoner—someone with a pure heart and loyalty. Together, they will break the chains of power the King holds over Eldria."
Seraphina blinked, her heart racing. "But how does it fit us? I'm the princess. And Eryan…" She looked at Eryan, who was just a commoner.
Lyra nodded. "Exactly. You two are the ones the prophecy speaks of. The bond you share is more than just friendship. It's the key to freeing this kingdom."
Seraphina felt a strange mix of fear and hope. "But why would the King want to stop us? Why would he be afraid of us being together?"
Lyra's face grew darker. "Because if you join forces, the King's rule will fall. The prophecy says that the princess and the loyal commoner will bring true peace to the land, something the King cannot control. He wants to keep his power, so he will stop at nothing to keep you apart."
Eryan's eyes widened. "So that's why he separated us when we were kids. He knew what we could become."
Lyra nodded. "Yes. He knew the prophecy and feared you both. That's why he told Seraphina to stay away from you, Eryan. He was trying to stop fate."
Seraphina felt a heavy weight in her chest. "So, it's true. Our bond is more important than we realized."
Lyra stood up. "It's not just about your bond. It's about the future of Eldria. The King cannot rule forever. But you two—together—can bring change."
Seraphina felt a spark of hope, but also fear. Could they really change everything? Could she really trust this prophecy and her bond with Eryan?
"Do you believe in the prophecy?" Lyra asked, looking at them both.
Seraphina looked at Eryan, then back at Lyra. "I don't know if I fully believe in it, but I know one thing for sure—we can't let the King control us anymore."
Eryan nodded. "We're in this together. We'll stop him."
Lyra smiled. "Then it's time to make a plan."