Crescent Vow

c.v.i the road to you

─── ⋅ ∙ ∘ ☽ ༓ ☾ ∘ ⋅ ⋅ ───

Lyra followed Prince Kael's lead the way to the castle's stables, her heart fluttering with a mix of excitement and nerves. The early morning air was crisp and fresh, and the sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden glow over the stables. Birds chirped merrily in the distance, adding to the serene atmosphere.

As they approached the stables, Lyra noticed a huge black horse saddled and ready. It was a magnificent creature, powerful and graceful, with a sleek coat that shone in the morning light.

"Is that your horse?" Lyra asked, her eyes wide with admiration.

Prince Kael nodded while stroking his horse. "Yes, his name is Onyx."

The Prince swung himself effortlessly onto Onyx, then he reached out his hand to Lyra, signaling her to climb onto his tall and huge horse. Instead of grabbing his hand, Lyra was stunned. She didn't prepare for this. She didn't realize that she would ride the same horse with him. Suddenly, her face felt like it was burning again.

"Lyra?" called Prince Kael, brought back her consciousness.

"Huh–" Lyra looked like a lost sheep while staring blankly both at The Prince's hand and face. Trying to compose herself, she quickly grabbed Prince Kael's hand and he helped her climb onto the horse.

"Hold tight," said The Prince. His deep voice that was so close to her ear made her flutter. As if her soul left her body, she couldn't process anything after being seated on the same saddle as The Prince of Arvandor. Can you imagine that?

Surprisingly, Prince Kael handled it way calmer as if nothing serious happened. With a gentle nudge on his horse, he led the way out of the stables and into the forest. The path wound through ancient trees, their leaves rustling softly in the breeze. The air was fresh and filled with the scent of pine and earth. The beautiful scenery successfully shifted her focus and calmed her. Her eyes wandered, following the greenery scenery decorated with some flowers of color.

As they rode, Prince Kael glanced at Lyra who seemed enjoying herself, his expression was the same serene as her. He never relished a short trip as much as he did now.

After a short ride, they arrived at a secluded clearing surrounded by towering trees. The area was peaceful and serene, with a small stream running through it, its water sparkling in the sunlight.

"This is my private training ground," he said, while gesturing to the clearing of that training ground. "It's a place where I come to practice and think. I thought it would be a good spot for your lesson."

Lyra looked around, taking in the beauty of the place, then laid her gaze to the man behind her. "It's perfect. Thank you for bringing me here."

The Prince stared back, his eyes softening as his gaze met that warm smile of hers. "Now, let's get started."

He led Onyx to the center of the clearing and began adjusting Lyra's grip on the reins, his hands brushing against hers. The brief contact sent a shiver down her spine, but she tried to focus on his instructions.

"Keep your hands steady, like this," Prince Kael instructed, his voice low and reassuring. "You want to be firm but gentle."

Lyra nodded, feeling the difference immediately. Onyx responded to her touch, moving forward with a steady gait. Everything was okay, until the horse started to speed up. Lyra's body was pulled forward, following the movement of Onyx. Thankfully, before she lost her balance, Prince Kael placed his hand on her core while the other hand was resting on her shoulder.