Chase [Fenrys Moonbeam x OC]

Home sweet home

The horses are fast. Which is a good thing, really, since I'm not used to the biting cold of Terrasen anymore. Yup, Antica is warmer in winter, and I already miss my mornings wandering through the busy streets without having to be smothered by furry clothes. Nonetheless, it's always heart-warming to finally go back to your own, true home. Terrasen being mine.

- You're doing fantastic, Asfaloth, I whisper to my silver Asterion horse, a gift I received from my mother Aelin when I turned fourteen.

The wind is slamming in my face and tugging at my blond braid, but the adrenalin makes it secondary. It's almost like flying, especially since Asfaloth is as wild as me. Already, the proud shape of the castle appears, glamorously cut against the dark blue sky of the night. It is still lit everywhere, a powerful, welcoming beacon in the winter cold. I can almost see some Fae going by and hurrying along the building. Someone shouts behind me.

- Viviane, slow down !

I slow down the pace, turning to see a panting Jelan, as warmly dressed as me since he has never known this kind of winter. He made it clear, through the journey, that he hates it very much.

- You look like you had a night of fun, Jelan, I gently mock.

He glares at me half-heartedly.

- Yeah, and you're the reason.

- As if, Jelan Shadan.

- It's this castle ? he asks suddenly, eyes fixed on my dear home.

- Do you see another one ?

- Tss.

- The first one there wins ! I suddenly claim, nudging Asfaloth to race to the final destination.

Jelan shouts something, but the sound is swallowed by the raging wind. The few last kilometres seem like mere metres with the speed. The silver Asterion jumps up the steep road leading to the main gates, and I lift my fist up in victory as Jelan and his brown mare reach my level seconds after.

- I won, I boast with a wicked smile.

Before my companion can argue, a guard sees us and comes our way, smiling warmly as he recognises me.

- Princess Viviane, you're finally back.

- Evening Kalwin, I see you were all expecting us already.

Indeed, it looked as if a party was thrown. The castle was entirely decorated, garlands of winter flowers and sparkling silver ribbons were hanging everywhere, and the entire building seemed to shine thanks to the thousands of candles lit up all over. I jump of Asfaloth, patting his soft snout and handing Kalwin the reins.

- I'm guessing I'll have to wear a dress then.

- Your mother would probably be offended if you didn't, confirms the guard as he leads the horses to the stables.

I turn to Jelan.

- Let's go.

As soon as we're inside, a kind Fae with long, amber hair comes our way.

- Princess Viviane, welcome back.

- Good evening Neya. How are you ? I ask, referring to the small bump of her stomach.

- I am doing great, I couldn't be more happy.

- Good.

- I am to lead you to your room and help you change.

- Right. Would you have anything for Jelan here ?

- I'll find something, she nods.

She walks me to my room, letting another female take care of my companion.