Chapter 28: Moments of Serenity

The soft glow of the morning sun bathed the dining hall of Elena's mansion, its rays dancing on the polished wooden table laden with an assortment of warm pastries, fruits, and freshly brewed tea. The atmosphere was calm, filled with the gentle hum of life and the occasional tinkling of porcelain as the family enjoyed a rare, peaceful breakfast together.

Aiden sat beside his mother, swinging his legs slightly as he nibbled on a flaky croissant. His wide eyes scanned the table, occasionally landing on the delicious food before him.

"Slow down, Aiden," Lyria said, her tone gentle but amused as she handed him a napkin. "The food isn't going anywhere."

Aiden grinned sheepishly, wiping a crumb from the corner of his mouth. "It's just so good, Mother. Everything tastes better here!"

Elena smiled warmly from across the table, her hands cradling a cup of tea. "That's because it's made with care, little one. You've been working so hard lately. It's good to see you enjoying yourself."

"I like learning," Aiden replied earnestly, his expression brightening. "But spending time with both of you is my favorite."

Lyria's heart swelled at his words, and she reached out to ruffle his hair. "You're a sweet boy, Aiden."

At that moment, Aline entered the room, carrying a tray of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. She set them carefully on the table, her movements graceful and precise. "My Lady, I thought these might be a nice addition to the morning," she said with a polite bow to Lyria.

"They smell heavenly," Lyria remarked with a smile. "Thank you, Aline."

Aria followed shortly after, bringing a pitcher of fresh orange juice. "Would anyone like a refill?" she asked cheerfully, her gaze sweeping over the table.

"Yes, please," Elena said, holding out her glass. "Thank you, Aria."

The maids worked seamlessly, their presence adding to the comforting rhythm of the morning.

As the family continued their meal, Lyria glanced at her mother. "Do you remember the time Aiden tried to climb the bookshelf in the library?" she asked, a teasing smile on her lips.

Elena chuckled softly. "How could I forget? He insisted he was going to reach the stars."

"I almost made it," Aiden chimed in, his tone defensive but playful.

"You almost toppled the entire shelf," Lyria countered, her laughter spilling out. "We had to catch you before the books caught us!"

The memory brought laughter to the room, and even Sera, standing quietly nearby, allowed a small smile to grace her usually composed expression.

Aiden beamed at the sound of their laughter, his heart warm. "Maybe next time, I'll use a ladder," he said confidently.

Elena raised an eyebrow, her smile teasing. "Or perhaps you'll simply wait until you're taller."

The conversation meandered from one memory to another, the family basking in the joy of shared stories and lighthearted teasing.

"I heard from Aria that the garden is in full bloom," Lyria said after a while, glancing out the window. "Perhaps we can spend the afternoon outside, Aiden. You've been working so hard; it would be nice to relax."

Aiden's eyes lit up. "Can we go? I want to see the flowers!"

"We can," Lyria replied, her voice soft with affection. "But only if you finish your breakfast first."

With renewed determination, Aiden dug into his food, eliciting chuckles from both women.

As he finished his last bite, Aiden glanced between his mother and grandmother, his small face lighting up with an idea. "Mother, Grandmother, I was thinking... Can we visit the capital someday?"

Lyria blinked, slightly surprised. "The capital? Why the sudden interest?"

"Well," Aiden said, his voice gaining excitement, "Uncle Keiran is there, right? I've never met his family before, and I want to see what the capital looks like. Oh, and Lady Grace told me about the academy! It sounds so amazing! I want to go there someday and learn everything!"

Elena exchanged a glance with Lyria, her smile softening. "The academy, hmm? That's quite an ambition, Aiden. It's not an easy place to get into."

"I know," Aiden replied, his tone resolute. "But I want to try! I want to learn more about the world and how I can help protect everyone."

Lyria's expression was tender, though her heart was heavy with unspoken thoughts. "You have a big heart, Aiden," she said softly. "We'll see about visiting the capital when the time is right."

"Really?" Aiden's eyes shone with excitement.

"Really," Lyria affirmed, her lips curving into a gentle smile.

The rest of the morning passed in the warmth of familial love, the promise of future adventures lingering in the air.