Chapter 12

Days had gone by, and the general had been keeping a close eye on Rhaine, making it nearly impossible for her to move about unnoticed. Even during the night, as she stepped out onto her balcony, she couldn't shake the feeling that someone was watching her every move.

At least for now she was aware of the runes' location, but with the arrival of the blood moon, it would be nearly impossible to remain inconspicuous. The elders had warned her about its effects: the runes, hidden in plain sight, would ignite in shimmering white light, forming a ruinic map that led to the military realignment map. A map coveted by many but legible only to those of her lineage.

A bittersweet privilege.

The chamber was dimly lit by flickering lanterns casting golden hues against the stone walls. The air was thick with the fragrant aroma of rare herbs, petals strewn across the wooden worktable. In the center, a mortar shimmered with a deep purplish liquid that glowed faintly with each swirl. Rhaine's delicate hands moved with practiced precision, grinding dried leaves into a fine.

The liquid hissed upon contact, tiny tendrils of steam curling into the air. Her brow furrowed in concentration, every movement deliberate. The elixir was temperamental—one mistake, and its potency would be compromised. Rhaine knew better than to rush.

Her gaze flicked to the final ingredient resting in a velvet-lined box: Lunaris Bloom. The petals shimmered like starlight, their silvery hue almost ethereal. A rare and sacred flower that only blossomed under the light of the full moon, its properties were unmatched in enhancing the elixir's effects. She had nurtured them painstakingly in her homeland.

Taking a deep breath, she plucked a single petal and putting it into the mortar. After taking the elixir, rhaine took a moment for the effect to take place momentary before Salira entered the room saying, "Let's go down for supper, the king said he has a special announcement to make."

A little while later...

 The warm glow of the dining hall candles flickered ominously as the clinking of goblets and soft murmur of conversation filled the room. Plates gleamed with delicacies, but all eyes were drawn toward the king, seated at the head of the long, ornate table. His voice, commanding even in jest, echoed through the space.

"I would like to thank the Saintess. I've heard many praising you," the king said, his tone laced with a subtle edge of sarcasm. "They said you were able to help them more than our physicians had. So, a toast to the Saintess." He raised his golden goblet, eyes gleaming as they locked onto Rhaine.

"I do not drink as per our customs," Rhaine replied smoothly, pouring herself juice into an empty goblet. Her voice remained calm, composed. "But thank you, Your Majesty. It is my pleasure." She lifted her goblet politely, her composure unwavering even as she caught the princess's subtle eye-roll.

Only for the princess to roll her eyes her speech.

The tension was palpable.

As the meal continued, Rhaine finally broke the silence. "Your Majesty," she spoke softly but firmly, directing all attention back to her. "In gratitude for your hospitality, we have prepared a special longevity soup for you."

 Selara motioned gracefully, and servants entered carrying a large, intricately carved bowl, steam rising in delicate tendrils from the rich broth. The aroma wafted through the hall, warm and inviting. "Long live Your Majesty," Rhaine declared, standing briefly before bowing respectfully.

The king inclined his head, curiosity flickering in his eyes. "Thank you, Saintess. Being a healer yourself, I trust this will benefit my health," he remarked with a hint of amusement. He lifted a spoon, dipping it into the soup before taking a measured sip.

For a moment, silence reigned.

"Hmm," the king mused, savoring the taste. "Very good—"

His voice faltered.

A sudden cough tore from his throat.

Once.

Twice.

Then a continuous series of violent cough —until silence fell, sharp and unnatural.