Crown of Shadows

Chapter 3- Aelin

As I lay in my makeshift bed, the events of the evening replayed in my mind like a relentless loop.

The encounter with those men, their menacing words, the sudden appearance of the mysterious stranger who intervened – it all felt like a surreal blur. But amidst the chaos, one figure stood out starkly in my memory: the masked man who drove them away. His presence was etched in my mind, his words echoing in the recesses of my thoughts.

Who even was he? Why did he save me? And why did he vanish as swiftly as he appeared, leaving behind only unanswered questions? With each passing moment, my desire to figure out who is grew stronger, fueling a restless energy within me.

Yet amidst the turmoil of my thoughts, exhaustion eventually claimed me, and I drifted into a deep sleep.

Three hours later, I packed my stuff, put my hair in a ponytail, and continued my journey through the bustling streets of Northpass

Yet as I walked through the sidewalk, I couldn't shake the faint strains of music that seemed to drift through the night air. Intrigued, I followed the melody until I stumbled upon a scene straight out of a fairy tale: a woman, with a fancy dress and a large white hat with a light blue feather attached to it, strolled leisurely with a white poodle at her side.

Approaching the woman, I greeted her politely and asked about the source of the enchanting music. "Excuse me, ma'am," I began, "but could you tell me where that music is coming from?"

The woman smiled warmly at my question. "Oh, that's strange. You must have really good hearing," she remarked, her tone filled with genuine surprise. "The music is coming from a grand ball being held at the royal palace tonight. It's hosted by our esteemed queen, Queen Mirabelle."

"Queen Mirabelle?" I asked.

The woman knitted a brow in confusion.

"Yes? Northpass is under her rule. Are you new here for something?" She asked.

I nodded, "Yes, I'm new to the city," I admitted. "I've never experienced anything quite like this before."

The woman nodded sympathetically. "Well, my dear, Northpass is a city full of wonders," she replied, gesturing to the bustling streets around them. "If you're interested in experiencing the finer things in life, why not join me at the palace? The ball promises to be a night to remember. I'm Isadora by the way."

"I'm Aelin." She replied. "But what about Queen Mirabelle? What is she like?"

Isadora's expression softened, "Queen Mirabelle is a gracious and benevolent ruler, loved by all who know her," she explained, her voice tinged with reverence. "She possesses a kind heart and a sharp mind, and she works tirelessly to ensure the prosperity and happiness of her people and will do anything to protect her city."

After Isadora gave me some information, I accepted her invitation. "I would love to attend the ball with you," I replied. "I'm looking for someone anyway."

"Oh? Well parties like these are held regularly. Their a great place of gathering information or just to have fun." Isadora said.

"Anyway," Isadora said. "you should wear a more fancy dress. Don't you worry dear, I have the perfect fits for you."

She pointed to a fancy house beside us.

"You can try these on at my home. I'll show you all kinds of dresses to choose from."

I nodded. "Sure." I said.

As we walked inside, the interior was bright and regal. We then walked into a closet and Isadora browsed through a variety of clothes with her poodle sitting there watching.