The torches in the underground corridor flickered as Lysara moved swiftly through the dim passage. She had long since memorized these secret tunnels—routes forgotten by all but a few, carved beneath the castle in ages past. Here, she was free from her father's watchful eye, free from the rigid expectations that bound her.
Her destination lay beyond the hidden doorear the old armory. She pushed the stone panel open, slipping inside the abandoned training chamber. Weapons lined the walls, their edges dulled from disuse. Here, in secret, she had trained for years.
A rustling near the entrance made her pause. She spun, hand instinctively reaching for the dagger at her waist.
"It's only me," a voice said softly.
Evelyne stepped into the chamber, her silk gown utterly out of place among the rusted swords and battered shields. Her expression was unreadable as she studied Lysara.
"You're too predictable," Evelyne murmured. "I knew I'd find you here."
Lysara relaxed but did not lower her guard. "What do you want?"
Evelyne sighed. "I wanted to warn you."
"About Dain?" Lysara scoffed. "I can handle him."
"No," Evelyne said, stepping closer. "About Father. He suspects you've been sneaking out."
Lysara's stomach tightened. "What! how, why?"
"I don't know, but he's sent Cassian to keep watch on you." Evelyne hesitated. "Lysara, you have to be careful. If he finds out everything…"
Lysara knew what that meant. If the king discovered not just her swordsmanship but her magic, there would be consequences. Deadly ones. Although even her sister new nothing of her magic she was always careful not because she did not trust her, but she felt it her burden alone to carry.
She exhaled, forcing a smirk. "Then I'll just have to be better at hiding.
Evelyne didn't smile. "Please, Lysara. Don't make yourself a target."
Lysara looked at her sister, seeing the genuine concern in her eyes. For all Evelyne's obedience, she still cared. And that was enough.
"I'll be careful," she promised, though they both knew it was a lie.
Because the fire inside her was growing, and soon, it would be impossible to contain.