Chapter 7: First word
When Elysia returned from the Council meeting later that evening, her mind heavy with political concerns from the Thornvale negotiations, she paused at the nursery door. The room was quiet, lit only by the soft glow of enchanted crystals that mimicked the gentle light of dusk. Naia had fallen asleep on the plush carpet, her azure hair spread out like a fan around her peaceful face.
And there, sitting perfectly upright beside her, was Eren.
Not reclining. Not crawling. Sitting with his back straight, legs folded, watching the door as if he had been waiting for her. His eyes tracked her movement with that unnerving focus that sometimes made her breath catch.
'Welcome back, Mother,' Eren thought, observing the surprise in her eyes. 'Long day at the office?'
"Where is Lyra?" Elysia asked softly, moving into the room with the silent grace characteristic of the royal line.
Eren simply tilted his head, unable to answer verbally but thinking, 'Probably off panicking about my little fire trick. I'm guessing she hasn't found you yet.'
As if summoned by the thought, hurried footsteps approached the nursery. Lyra appeared in the doorway, her normally composed features flushed with agitation. When she saw Elysia, relief washed over her face.
"My lady," she began, then noticed sleeping Naia and lowered her voice to a whisper. "I've been searching for you. Something has happened—something impossible."
Elysia's gaze darted to Eren, who met her eyes with what could only be described as a look of smug satisfaction.
"What has happened?" Elysia asked, though a part of her already knew.
"Eren," Lyra said, her voice trembling slightly. "She... she conjured fire."