Descendants of the Dragons

Darkstone Castle

As Mei Lin followed the chief maid through the winding halls of Darkstone Castle, she couldn't help but marvel at the sheer size and imposing presence of the fortress. Standing proudly amidst the endless stretch of snow-covered land, the castle seemed to be carved from the very darkness that surrounded it. Its black stone walls were thick, impenetrable, and whispered of ancient secrets long buried within. The air was cold, the kind that nipped at the skin and sent shivers through the bones, but Mei Lin felt a strange warmth blossoming inside her—perhaps from the lingering memory of Kael's embrace or the simple fact that this grand, intimidating place was now her home.

The chief maid, a woman of few words but with a kind, weathered face, began to speak as they walked. "Darkstone Castle has stood for over a thousand years," she began, her voice echoing slightly in the vast corridor. "Built by the first King of Arendelle as a fortress during the War of the Winter's Reign. It has never fallen, and it has protected the royal family for generations."

Mei Lin listened intently, imagining the battles that had raged outside these walls, the warriors who had walked these halls before her. She could feel the weight of history in every step she took, the past echoing through the stone.

"His Highness, Prince Kael, has lived here since he won the Winter War," the maid continued. "He warriors at the nearby camp. This castle has seen him grow over the years into the man you now know."

Mei Lin nodded, her mind racing with thoughts of Kael. The man she now belonged to. She realized she knew little of his preferences, likes, and dislikes beyond what she had experienced herself. As they continued, she turned to the maid and asked, "What does Prince Kael prefer in his meals? I would like to prepare something special for him myself."

The chief maid seemed taken aback by the question, her eyes widening slightly in surprise before softening into a smile. "His Highness prefers simple but hearty meals. He enjoys game meats, especially venison, prepared with a variety of herbs. He's also fond of roasted vegetables and dark bread. A warm stew on cold days is always appreciated."

Mei Lin smiled, grateful for the insight. She wanted to please him, to show her gratitude in the only way she knew—through her care. "Thank you," she said softly.

As they continued their walk, a second maid, younger and dressed in a more elaborate outfit, overheard their conversation and quickly turned to observe them. Jannel, as Mei Lin soon learned, had been serving Prince Kael for years. She was a gift from King Aldric, chosen specifically because she fell within the right age range to bear the prince an heir. Her dress, more ornate than the other servants', was designed to catch the prince's eye, accentuating her features and highlighting her potential to rise in status. Yet, despite her efforts and years of service, Kael had never once paid her any attention. And this year marked her last chance.

Jealousy flared in Jannel's chest as she observed Mei Lin walking beside the chief maid, asking questions about the prince's preferences as if she were already his consort. How could this new girl, a mere servant like herself, have captured the prince's attention so quickly? Why had she been chosen, while Jannel had been overlooked time and again? Her heart twisted with envy as she watched Mei Lin, and a frown creased her brow.

As they approached Prince Kael's chambers, the chief maid stopped in front of the grand wooden door. "This is His Highness's room," she said, opening the door and gesturing for Mei Lin to enter.

The room was large but surprisingly simple for a prince of Kael's stature. The furniture was of the finest quality—dark, polished wood and soft, luxurious fabrics—but there was no ostentation, no unnecessary decoration. Everything was functional, yet beautiful in its simplicity. A large, comfortable bed dominated the room, covered in rich furs and soft linens. The room was warm, with a fire crackling in the hearth, casting a soft glow over the stone walls.

Mei Lin stepped inside, feeling the warmth envelop her. She looked around, taking in every detail. The bed was inviting, a place she could easily imagine herself sinking into after a long day. The chairs and tables, though simple, were expensive, and crafted with skill and care. Yet, despite the luxury, the room felt personal, and intimate, as though it was a true reflection of the man who lived within it.

As she admired the room, the door opened, and Prince Kael entered. His presence filled the space immediately, his gaze softening as it landed on Mei Lin. Without a word, he crossed the room and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. "I need to attend to some matters," he said quietly. "This is now your home, our home."

His words echoed in Mei Lin's mind, sending a wave of warmth through her. She nodded, a shy smile on her lips as he left the room.

The servants standing outside had overheard his words, and they exchanged glances, their surprise evident. For Kael to refer to this place as *their* home was a clear indication of his feelings for Mei Lin, a statement that was not lost on those who served him. Jannel, standing among them, felt her heart sink further. Why her? Why had the prince chosen this girl over her? She was lost in her thoughts when Mei Lin spoke again.

"This room... it's so simple, yet so... perfect," Mei Lin remarked, her voice filled with admiration.

The chief maid nodded. "His Highness values function and comfort over excess. Everything here is chosen with care."

Mei Lin took a deep breath, her resolve strengthening. "I want to prepare a meal for him. Something that shows him how grateful I am."

The chief maid hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Very well. I'll take you to the kitchen."

As they made their way through the castle, Mei Lin's thoughts were on Kael. She wanted to show him how much she appreciated everything he had done for her, how much she cared. The kitchen was warm, filled with the scent of spices and roasting meats. The cooks were busy with their tasks, but when the chief maid explained Mei Lin's request, they quickly made space for her.

Mei Lin rolled up her sleeves and got to work, her focus entirely on the meal she was preparing. She chose a simple, hearty stew, just as the chief maid had suggested, with rich cuts of venison and fresh vegetables. She added herbs she hoped Kael would enjoy and prepared a loaf of dark bread to accompany the dish.

As she worked, her mind wandered to the prince. She thought of his touch, his voice, and the way he had looked at her. The thought made her heart flutter, but she pushed it aside, focusing on the task at hand.

Jannel watched from a distance, her jealousy growing with every passing moment. She had spent years trying to earn Kael's favour, only to see this newcomer achieve in days what she had been unable to do in years. It was almost too much to bear, but she kept her composure, determined not to let her emotions show.