Getting up from her bed, she decided to clear her raging thoughts. "Lady Liora," a maid called out. Liora's eyes lit with hope maybe Kealen was here, but it was soon shattered.
"Matron Maerina needs you at the lustral pools." Liora's eyes saddened a little, but duty called, pushing her thoughts asise she headed to the lustral pools.
She walked with elegance, her flowing white gown shimmering with every step, and the jeweled ornaments on her head catching the light.
The maids passing by either bowed or stopped what they were doing in respect as she passed.
Arriving at a door with ancient carvings written on it, she stepped in front of the door, which opened with a blue gem, that symbolizes healing.
Entering the large halls with a valley of waters by the side with a shimmering effect with beautiful plants and herbs growing beside it.
Stepping into the room someone laid on the bed; Liora tried getting a closer look at his face.
Noticing the anxious look on her mother, which was rare to see, Liora wondered who it could be.
Walking closer, her eyes widened in shock
"Arius," his name left her mouth in a gentle tone
"What happened to him, Mother? How did he get hurt? When did he get hurt? She sat beside him, holding his hands, which felt cold.
He groaned when he felt the warmth of her hands.
Matron Maerina held a firm expression.
"Liora, how many times do I have to tell you healers don't show signs of panic or fear? What if it clouds your mind and you aren't able to heal him?"
"I apologize mother, but why did you invite me here? Couldn't you cure him?" Trying to mask her anxiousness, she fidgeted with her clothes.
"My healing skills are only limited compared to yours. I am blessed with the knowledge due to my age and experience, but you were blessed with the gift, so it naturally comes to you. Why don't you try saving your best friend, Liora?"
"I found out he got bitten by a poisonous creature, the venom spreads fast."
Realizing the life of her best friend depends on her made her heart ache. What if she messes up? Removing her thoughts from it.
Liora moved closer , closed her eyes as she focused on her healing abilities , suddenly her eyes snapped open. She moved swiftly to the pool , picked a few herbs, crushed them, made a paste with the rare herbs, and placed it on the site of the bite.
Nothing happened for a few minutes, her heart began to pound . Soon, Arius groaned louder in pain.
"Hold him", Liora ordered and two female healers rushed forward restraining him gently.
The herb drew the venom towards it, causing pain to Arius, but soon he got instant relief as the leaf turned pitch black.
Liora put up a wide smile as she turned to her mother for approval, which was returned with a smile. The black leaf was disposed of, Liora checked his body, seeing everything was fine, she covered him with a blanket to protect him from the cold.
"Wake up soon, Arius," she whispered. "If you don't tell me what happened, I'm not speaking to you again."
She hoped, silently, that he could hear her.
Matron Maerina and Lady Liora walked hand in hand.
"I am so proud of you, Liora. I am sure you will be a great healer someday."
"I thought I was already a great healer mother ", liora replied playfully with a smirk They both chuckled.
Elder Bastian walked in haste beside his wife, Lady Elara. Maetron Maerina gave them a reassuring smile once they got closer.
Welcome, Lady Elara and Elder Bastian, Matron Maerina greeted.
Lady Elara, in worry, held onto Maerina's hands. How is my son? Is he alright? Her face was filled with worry.
Lady Maerina smiled back. He is fine; Liora here treated him. Hearing that, Lady Elara heaved a sigh of relief. She walked towards Liora, holding her by her hands.
"Thank you. I am sure Arius will be pleased he got treated by you."
Lady Maerina, Elder Bastian I and Arius are childhood friends. I don't think you need to thank me; I would have done anything to save my friend.
Elder Bastian, though quiet, felt relieved his son was fine.
Liora bowed, taking her leave as they had something to talk about.
Returning to her chambers, laying on her bed she felt drained.
"Milady!" Celestial called out, running in like a child called to take a candy.
What! Liora groaned in tiredness; the healing process took a toll on her, one she didn't seem fit to tell her mom to avoid her worrying.
Guess what? Celestial twirled happily.
"Are you pulling me a warm bath with a revitalizing herb",she replied sarcastically face buried in the sheet's.
Celestial giggled. I apologize about that, milady. I will get your bath ready, but before that… she made a drumroll sign with her hands
Prince Kealan is on his way to ardentor with his entourage he will be staying for a few days maximum three days I guess.
Really! Liora jumped up in happiness forgetting about her tired body ,she cleared her throat steadying herself properly before speaking in a calm voice.
Use the sunrise flower to prepare a bath for me.
Celestial giggled happily as she ran to get the job done. The sunrise flower in Ardentor is used for newlywed or about-to-wed brides; it brightens their skin, giving them a fairer glow and smoother skin.
I thought you said my son will be betrothed to Liora. What is this I am hearing about her being married off to a prince? Does he even love her? Elder Bastian banged his fist on the table, showing his annoyance .
Watch your words, Bastian. Master Thalen's stiff voice echoed, My daughter is not being married off like a piece of goods; they are both in love, and I gave consent to the marriage.
You and I both know Liora isn't in love with Arius, and I am not giving my daughter to a one-sided love.
They will get to know each other in a romantic way, Bastian interjected.
If anyone should talk, it should be Arius, not you or anyone. Master Thalen tried controlling his anger.
How do you know the prince isn't getting married to her out of pity? Wasn't she rejected by the older brother? What if the younger one just wants to have his way with her and leave her or use her as his concubine?
BASTIAN! Master Thalen voice thundered, which made the hall go silent.
Liora stood by the door, eagerly waiting to ask her mother a question, but with what she overheard, her heart shattered. Is that what the maids had been gossiping about? Is that what they think of this marriage?
What if it is true? I don't know him that well to defend him.
Noticing a tiny figure standing by the large doorway, Thalen's face softened; he felt terrible his daughter had to hear that.
Liora gave a light bow as a greeting to her father before turning away, trying to hold back her tears.