Princess Nymeria's Arc

Chapter 28 of 32

The music faded as the last guests left the great hall. Nymeria stood under the white stone arches, Valor's hand still in hers. She had won her chance, but nothing more. Queen Celeste had promised only to talk. A demon princess with no title and hunters at her back was not a bride any queen would bless. Nymeria needed to give the queen a reason to say yes. Lyra dropped onto a bench beside Elara, the blonde elf who had refused Valor for her. Nymeria walked over and nudged Lyra with her elbow. "Looks like you didn't find a lord but a nice lady." Lyra laughed loud enough to echo off the arches. She grabbed Elara's hand and started asking about the northern woods, about her family, about everything at once. Elara's cheeks went pink. She spoke softly. "I'm real hungry. Can we discuss it over food?" Nymeria laughed. Valor laughed too, then punched his sister's shoulder, gentle. "She is definitely perfect for you." For a moment the fear left Nymeria completely. These people teased each other because they cared. She wanted to belong here. The kitchen sat quiet at this late hour. An older elf with brown hair worked the ovens, a blue apron tied over her pale dress. She set out cold meat and bread without a word of complaint. Nymeria helped her carry plates to the table. She poured cups. She cleared the bones after. The kitchen woman watched her work and gave a small nod of approval. Valor pulled Nymeria close. Lyra winked at Nymeria. Elara smiled mouth full of food. Nymeria's chest went tight with joy. She was starting to fall for Valor and she did not even know him.