Aresia's Winged Kingdom

Chapter 1: Wildflower Honey

The early light filtered through the massive branches of the ancient tree, casting soft shadows over the palace grounds. The air was cool and crisp, still carrying the remnants of the night, while a gentle breeze stirred the leaves. Prince Mallow walked along the stone path, his quiet steps making hardly a sound against the moss-covered ground. Around him, the garden stretched wide, simple and familiar—a sanctuary within the kingdom of Aresia.

The palace itself was nestled within the roots and branches of the tree, woven seamlessly into its structure. Walls of smooth bark and wooden beams held up the towering ceilings, and the scent of damp wood lingered in the air. The sprawling gardens, cultivated over generations, grew naturally into the architecture. Flowers and vines twined with the railings, leaves rustling softly in the wind. Mallow had always liked it here, away from the noise of court.

He wore his usual attire—robes made from finely woven leaves, layered carefully, their edges trimmed with tiny gold accents. It was simple, practical for the morning air, but still carried the mark of royalty. Aresia didn't indulge in lavish displays, but there was a quiet elegance in the natural materials the kingdom's artisans used, especially in the higher ranks.

Mallow's eyes drifted across the garden, watching the flowers as they swayed gently. The familiar hum of insects filled the space, but otherwise, it was quiet. Peaceful. He liked these moments best, where the palace felt still and alive at the same time.

He reached a small stone bench, worn smooth by age and weather, and sat down. His long, feathered ears draped over his shoulders, catching the breeze like soft wings. The sunlight caught in his fur, casting a faint pink glow over him. There was always a lightness to the mornings, the world feeling a little softer, a little kinder before the day fully began.

The flowers at his feet were beginning to bloom—a cluster of blue petals, delicate and bright. Mallow reached down to brush a fingertip along one of the petals, feeling its smooth surface. There was nothing particularly grand about the garden, but it was beautiful in its simplicity. The way the vines curled up the tree bark, the way the light dappled the stones—it was enough.

His thoughts wandered, though not far. Work was on his mind, as it always was. Things were not as peaceful as they seemed, even if the garden suggested otherwise. Tensions had been rising lately. Some thought him too soft, too unwilling to act.

A faint rustling in the distance caught his attention. A figure emerged from the far side of the garden, one of the palace courtiers, moving quickly but with respect. Mallow straightened, his expression remained calm.

"Your Highness," the courtier said, bowing as they approached. "Lady Relin is here... There are matters to discuss."

Mallow gave a small nod, rising to his feet. His mind shifted back to the present, the weight of the day's responsibilities settling into place. The quiet of the garden lingered around him as he followed the courtier, but he knew it wouldn't last.

The figure approached slowly, careful not to disturb the serenity of the garden. Their footsteps were measured, their robes swaying slightly with each movement. Mallow observed the courtier's approach with quiet attention, letting the last few moments of solitude linger. The light shifting through the branches above gave the garden an almost dreamlike quality, as if the rest of the world existed just beyond this calm, untouched for now.

The courtier stopped a respectful distance away, their hands clasped in front of them. They wore a robe of woven leaves and flower petals, crafted with intricate care, though nothing about the attire seemed boastful. The small golden clasp on the shoulder marked their position within the palace—a mid-level aide, someone frequently tasked with carrying messages back and forth. Mallow didn't immediately acknowledge them, allowing a breath to pass before he turned his attention fully.