Shadow Bands

XXXVIII. Reflectance

Lyra awoke in a familiar room, or rather, house. The familiar dark wood and gold accented accessories filled her with ease. Lightrays beaming through the windows revealed the falling dust particles. Her arms curled underneath the pillow, as her leg curled beside her. A fleeting chill brushed against her skin. A deep breath filled her lungs.

Finally, a peaceful moment.

But of course, that peace wouldn't last. She shot up from the bed, looking around. There was nobody. Could this be another dream? Lyra tossed her legs over the edge of the bed, nearly stumbling as she stood. The bottoms of her feet met the cold floors.

A reflection of herself in a mirror caught her eye. She was messy and seemed leaner than she remembered. Then her lips. The tips of her fingers rubbed against her lips, remembering how Draven kissed her.

The door clicked, disturbing her reminiscence. Her head tilted to the door, and Higgs entered the room.

"Ah!" she said with glee. "Ms. Lyra. You're awake!"

The door burst open, and Kaelen stood there, staring at her. She was only wearing a silky nightgown, making her feel exposed.

"Can I help you, Kaelen?" Lyra said, twisting her body.

"I was just making sure you were alright."

"I'm doing fine. Now please leave."

"Of course!"

She saw him take one last glance before leaving the room. A sigh left her. Higgs closed the door and approached her.

"How long have I been asleep?" she asked, staring out the window.

"Two days now, Ms. Lyra."

Though the sun shone brightly, it was clear that a lot had happened during the time she was asleep. Lyra gathered herself. There has been enough time resting. At her first taste of victory, she wanted more.

After equipping her mother's armor, she made her way to meet with Joanne. The citizens smiled at her, hooraying her victory in Windermere. She received gifts and offers, all which she had to decline.

Lyra hurried to the barracks. Once she arrived, Helen stood there waiting by the guards. As she approached, Helen turned herself to follow her in.

"It's good to see you again," said Helen. "The people were getting worried for the Hero of Windermere

She had her usual halberd back, and she had repaired or replaced her armor. Lyra nodded at her with a slight smile.

She kept her gaze on Helen, who focused on her destination, and said, "I'm sure a lot has happened since I was away."

"Yes. The council decided to strengthen the borders, halting Windermere's restoration due to uncertainty about the future."

"But the people. . ."

Lyra couldn't help but worry about its citizens. The war ripped their homes, culture, and way of life from them.

"The people understand. Kogeer will be a temporary home until peace comes."

She stopped at a closed door. Helen caught Lyra's arm before it reached for the door.

"When you asked me to be part of your team-"

"I understand," Lyra said solemnly. "You have greater ambitions to achieve."

"No, it's not that." Helen paused. Confliction showed all over her face. Her grip tightened on her arm. "I believe that you can do greater. You have a reason to. And I want to be a part of that."