Bloodright

Chapter 3

The predawn silence hung thick and heavy as Raiah made her way through the castle's corridors, her boots making soft, echoing sounds against the cold stone floors. The castle was still fast asleep, its occupants enjoying the final moments of rest before the chaos of the day began. Her breath came out in little puffs in the chilly air as she ventured out into the courtyard, her muscles already eager for the routine they were accustomed to.

With practiced ease, she started her regimen, her body falling into the familiar rhythm of her morning exercises. The world was still hushed, the only sound being the steady clink of her metal practice sword hitting the dummy.

As the sky began to lighten, Raiah found herself pausing. She was breathing heavily, sweat trickling down her forehead, her eyes glued to the changing hues of the sky. It was a moment of serenity she rarely allowed herself to enjoy. But Catalina's words from the previous night echoed in her head. "Remember to live a little."

Taking a deep breath, she lowered her weapon, looking around at the courtyard bathed in the soft, early light. It was peaceful, the usual bustle of soldiers and servants absent. A sudden movement from the corner of her eye caught her attention. A bird, perhaps. Or maybe... something else.

Shaking off her momentary distraction, Raiah decided to investigate. After all, part of living might just include embracing the unexpected.

The elusive figure slipped through the castle grounds like a ghost, darting into shadows and around corners. The cloak concealed the person's identity well, and Raiah felt a thrill of curiosity as she trailed after them, her horse's breath puffing out rhythmically into the cold morning air. They led her past the stables, where they deftly saddled a horse and rode off, leaving her to hastily grab a halter and clamber onto her own horse bareback, spurring the animal into a quick pursuit.

She kept her distance, managing to blend into the backdrop of the Phoenix Forest. The forest was alive with vibrant hues of red and orange, the trees like towering flames against the morning sky. The figure's pace didn't slow, their horse taking a path that led them to a seemingly insignificant cave nestled among the trees.

Raiah cautiously followed, her eyes never leaving the figure as they ventured deep into the cave. She was met with a breathtaking sight when she finally stepped inside, her breath hitching in her chest.

A grand cavern, larger than any ballroom she'd seen, lay before her. A serene, crystal blue pool was at its center, its tranquil surface mirroring the sparkling bioluminescent crystals scattered across the cavern walls. The ceiling had a small opening through which daylight spilled, illuminating the surreal landscape with a soft, ethereal glow.

The hooded figure had stopped by the pool and was now removing their cloak. Raiah's heart skipped a beat when she recognized the revealed face - Prince Valerian. His focus was on his clothes, which he was now shedding. She turned away, her cheeks warming at the sight.

Just as she was about to leave, a sharp sound echoed through the cavern - the snap of a twig beneath her boot. The serene silence was shattered and she froze, knowing her presence was no longer a secret. She could feel Valerian's eyes on her now, the peaceful morning taking a swift turn into the unexpected.

Valerian's voice cut through the silence, sharp and accusing, "What are you doing here, Raiah?"

She straightened her stance, holding his piercing gaze. "I was... investigating. I didn't know it was you," she admitted. His eyes still bore into hers, but he didn't say anything, giving her a chance to elaborate further. "I saw a hooded figure moving about suspiciously. I had to follow," she finished.

A heavy silence blanketed the cavern, only disturbed by the gentle lapping of water against the pool's edge. Valerian's expression remained impassive, his icy blue eyes unwavering. A small frown tugged at the corners of his lips, mulling over her words.