The weather was warm and pleasant, sunlight spilling gently across the courtyards. Deciding it was too nice to stay indoors, Ayesha took Lyra outside to explore the East Palace.
Nira and Leila walked close, their watchful eyes scanning the surroundings without intruding on the peaceful mood.
"It's so elegant," she murmured, her tone soft with wonder. The palace was nothing like the cold, towering grandeur of the main one. Here, the air was lighter, the scent of blooming flowers drifting in from the gardens. Water trickled softly from carved fountains, and the open-air halls invited the breeze to dance through.
Lyra skipped a few steps ahead, her laughter echoing faintly. She tilted her head back to watch a pair of white doves take flight, her small hands clasped behind her back in childish curiosity.
Ayesha smiled, her heart warming at the sight of Lyra's joy. She couldn't wait to see her niece grow, to see her soar higher than anyone expected.
