Garden of Fireflies

In truth, Rast felt a twinge of pity for Lea, knowing she was trapped within the confines of the palace. She had dedicated her life to serving Sophia, taking on this role after her older sister, Lavatri—Arnulp's beloved fiancée—had tragically died in an attempt to save the queen.

The weight of her sister's legacy rested heavily on Lea's young shoulders, and Rast could see how it had shaped her into a dutiful and loyal servant.

Lea had grown up too fast, her childhood cut short by the responsibilities she had taken on.

While other girls her age were experiencing the joys and freedoms of youth, Lea was bound by duty and obligation, her every action guided by the memory of her sister's sacrifice.

It was a heavy burden for anyone to bear, let alone someone so young.