Chapter 287 The Unwritten Rose The Curse of Silent Gold
East Gardens, Celesthall Castle
Dawn.
A thin mist envelops the royal garden, cloaking the area in a dreamlike haze. The black and white roses glisten with dew, their petals shimmering with an ethereal glow. The birds have yet to fully sing, their morning chorus lingering just beyond the horizon. Dawn hangs on the horizon like a thread of unspun gold, heralding the promise of a new day.
Fitran stands waiting among the rows of ancient stone pillars, their surfaces worn by time and tales of old. The morning breeze carries the rich scents of damp earth and cinnamon from the gnarled old trees, creating a comforting, nostalgic atmosphere.
In the distance, soft footsteps can be heard.
Sheena approaches without a guard, her dress simpler than yesterday's: a pale white adorned with black lace at the hem. Her golden hair is loosely tied back. Today, she appears more human than doll.
Yet her eyes remain unchanged. Violet, burdened with an unseen weight.
"I... I am grateful you came," Sheena whispered, her voice trembling with anticipation as she stood hopefully beneath the rose tree, its leaves pale with the season's chill.
"I will always come," Fitran replied firmly, his voice steady and full of conviction.
Sheena lowered her gaze, her breath catching in her throat. "Then... you must know. About me. About why they have arranged me to marry you. It's not just for peace..." Her voice began to strengthen, though doubt still lingered.
Fitran remained silent, allowing Sheena to find her own words, but his gaze never left her face.