Of Ashes and Dreams

Chapter 1

Chapter One - Irida ( since this was in my dream, his name was different but I picked a new name so it's like that for the first two chapters)

9 Months Ago

As I twirl with my partner, I take in the sight of the other ladies dancing, their decorated skirts swishing gracefully. The gold trim lining the walls catches my eye, while the men's coattails flutter like the tails of fish in the current.

I study the gentleman I'm dancing with. His hair shines with a golden hue reminiscent of daffodils, and his watery blue eyes seem to hold a thousand thoughts. I wonder what he is thinking—perhaps something about his fortune. He glances at me, offering a small smile, and I can't help but imagine how nice it would be to settle down with someone kind and gentle.

No. That's ridiculous. I shouldn't entertain such nonsensical thoughts. A wave of unease washes over me, making me feel nauseous. I haven't used my healing powers in so long, fearing discovery. It's as if I'm being watched, and I know it must be due to my status and the elaborate dress my family has chosen for me.

It truly is beautiful—a green silk that enhances the gold in my hair, flaring at the sleeves with a second layer beneath. The fashion in my kingdom favors subtlety, so there are few ribbons or bows. The skirt isn't voluminous, but it has a delicate train, and the bodice mimics a corset, which I already wear beneath it. I struggle to breathe, the fabric tighter than I'm accustomed to.

As the music nears its end, I sigh, reminding myself that I should be grateful for my life as a princess. That thought is suddenly eclipsed as I glance behind me and find the general watching me. Feeling shy, I turn back to my partner and curtsy.

"I hope that after you dance with one more gentleman, you will graciously accept another from me," he says, bowing as he releases my waist and hand.

"Of course I will," I reply, offering a smile. I only hope I remember; I would not want to hear the rumors that might arise. He has already asked for three dances, and I accepted them all, albeit nervously. The music stops momentarily as couples disperse to retrieve refreshments. I pick up a glass and swirl the golden liquid—mead—reflecting for a moment on my surroundings.

I am at the first prince's birthday ball in the esteemed kingdom of Arlaia. The king has two sons and one daughter. The general, the king's firstborn and illegitimate son, is twenty-four years old. It's quite remarkable that he has become a general, given the king's determination to keep him at a distance and his refusal to acknowledge him. The general commands both admiration and fear; his distinctive use of sunlight magic captivates many. Yet, he admits few into his inner circle, trusting them with his life.

I've seen him a few times—his black hair and severe expression set him apart from the other royal children. I sigh, wondering what draws his interest to me. The second prince, officially known as the first, is spoiled yet kind; he has brown hair and a perpetual smile. Then there's the adored princess Kassandra, the queen's youngest child, just eighteen. Always seen as innocent, suitors from distant lands come seeking her hand.

I'm jolted from my thoughts as I realize the general has been speaking to me. I stare at him, examining his relatively plain navy jacket adorned with medals and intricate embroidery on the cuffs and collar. He shakes his head, then locks eyes with me. "Would my lady do me the honor of taking this next dance?"

I hesitate for a moment. Why would he want to dance with me? He must not know who I am, or perhaps he vaguely recognizes me. "Of course, my lord. I'm just waiting for the music to start," I reply, trying to smile despite my fatigue. What could he want from me? Perhaps he simply desires to dance or finds me beautiful. Still, I can't help but doubt it—beauty, after all, is in the eye of the beholder.