Chapter 7
The next morning, I awoke to Yara’s chipper voice.
“Good morning, Princess Aurora! We have to get you ready for your big day,” she said brightly.
I turned toward the window, surprised to see the sun already high in the sky. Yara usually woke me much earlier than this, and she must have noticed the confusion on my face.
“The Queen asked me to let you sleep in a bit. It’s a big day, and you have until noon before you need to be ready. There’s a feast tonight, and since you still tire easily, she thought it best,” she explained.
I was grateful for the extra rest. Nerves had kept me awake through the night, and I had woken several times. But after a warm bath and those extra hours of sleep, I felt refreshed.
I walked over to the vanity when Yara approached, carrying a dress that took my breath away. Every time she brought me a new gown, I thought none could be more beautiful than the last. Yet each time, they somehow managed to surpass the one before.
This dress was made of layers of flowing, soft fabric. The bodice, a deep teal, exuded elegance, fit for a queen. Delicate silver crystals lined the edges, catching the light with every movement. The bodice melted into a skirt where the turquoise fabric parted, revealing layers of white beneath. The long, flowing sleeves nearly reached the floor. They shared the same teal hue but opened at the elbow to reveal tighter white sleeves that peeked through the skirt.
Once I had donned the dress, Yara carefully added accessories. A stunning, Y-shaped silver belt sat perfectly on my hips, its delicate metal chain complementing the silver crystals along the trim.
At her request, I sat at the vanity as she styled my hair and applied my makeup. The teal fabric contrasted beautifully against my bright red hair. My eyes caught a beautifully crafted wooden box sitting on the vanity, and curiosity got the better of me. Lifting the lid, I found the jewelry Loki had made for me, nestled on dark blue velvet. The gems were still a deep purple.
“Yara, what gem color would be best with this dress?” I asked, eager for her opinion. I was unfamiliar with Asgardian customs—should the gems match or contrast with the dress? It was a relief to have someone to guide me.
She paused in thought. “Ideally, a mix of clear diamonds and a stone that matches the deep teal of the dress.”
I placed my hands over the jewelry, envisioning an alternating pattern in the colors she suggested. Closing my eyes, I concentrated. When I opened them, the gems had transformed. The smaller stones in the tiara and necklace were now clear as diamonds, while the larger ones matched the deep teal of my dress, making them stand out even more. The diamond-like stones added just the right amount of sparkle.
Yara gasped, her hand instinctively reaching out to touch them, but she pulled back abruptly, blushing.
“Yara, I don’t mind if you touch them. I’ll need your help putting them on, and I trust you to tell me when and how they should be worn.”
She looked at me, then offered a small smile. “Thank you, Princess Aurora. It would be my honor to assist and advise you.” Carefully, she lifted the tiara from the box and placed it on my head, weaving strands of hair around it to secure it in place.
“Are they real?” she asked while continuing to work on my hair. I knew she meant the stones.
“Yes, they’re real—and very precious to me. A wonderful friend gave them to me. I can change the color of the stones as needed, so if they ever need to match another outfit, just let me know.”
I saw another question flicker in her eyes, but she held back. She had an inquisitive nature, but her position as a servant restrained her from speaking freely. My heart went out to her. I, too, was eager to ask questions, but the station Frigga had given me granted me that right. It was disheartening to see how she had to suppress her curiosity simply because of her status. It felt unfair. But it was not something I could change.
Shaking off my thoughts, I focused on Yara’s gentle hands as she continued styling my hair. I decided to practice my story, gauging her reaction.
“Yara, I think you know I’m not a typical princess. While I must learn to navigate this court, I hope you will help me. I was raised on Midgard and only recently discovered my seiðr . When my father learned of my abilities, he thought it best that I learn to control them. He and King Odin have been longtime friends, and when my father told him about my magic, Odin allowed me to study here in Asgard.”
I saw that my words made sense to her.
“So while I’m well-versed in Midgardian customs and palace intrigues, I know nothing of Asgardian traditions or politics. I never expected to have the honor of visiting Asgard. That’s why I arrived early—to meet the royal family and learn about this world. Queen Frigga also provided me with proper clothing, as my Midgardian attire wouldn’t have been suitable. But more than anything, I need your guidance—if you’re willing.”
I turned in my chair to face her, taking her hands in mine. Her eyes widened at the gesture, but she didn’t pull away. I took it as a good sign.
“Yara, please be my guide and confidant. I might ask questions that seem foolish, but I need you to be honest with me. Tell me if I break an Asgardian rule or custom. And if you ever have questions for me, please ask. I promise I won’t be offended. If I cannot answer, I’ll simply say so. But I need someone who will challenge me when necessary—not someone who will follow blindly, even if I’m wrong. The only thing I ask is that you keep our conversations private. Can I trust you with this?”
She held my gaze, emotions flickering through her—shock, surprise—before a calm warmth settled over her. Finally, she gave my hands a gentle squeeze and spoke.
“Princess Aurora, it would be an honor to assist and help you.”
I couldn’t stop the genuine smile that spread across my face. I stood and pulled her into a hug. She hesitated at first but then returned the embrace. “Thank you, Yara,” I whispered.
“You’re welcome, Princess Aurora. But we must finish your jewelry, for the prince will be here shortly,” she said with a soft giggle.
I sensed she was testing the waters, unsure if I truly meant what I had said about speaking freely. A flicker of nerves crossed her face, but I only smiled and did as she asked. She fastened the earrings in my ears, draped the necklace around my neck, and adjusted my sleeves. Lastly, she secured the bracelets, one on each arm, completing my transformation.
Both bracelets?" I asked, feeling it might be a bit much.
"Yes," she said with clear determination. "Today is a day to impress the court, so it needs to be a bit over the top. This is the best time to make an impression on the nobles, and we must make the most of it. You only get one first impression."
I decided to let her do her thing. As a finishing touch, she took one of the decorative comb pins and secured the curls she had pulled back to fix my tiara in place. I loved the way she styled my hair, how she managed to tame the curls while still letting them flow freely over my shoulders. She had only pulled it back slightly from my face, giving it an effortless elegance. With a few tiny adjustments and a spray of my chosen fragrance, I was finally ready to look in the full-length mirror.
I was struck by my own reflection. For the first time, I truly looked like royalty. I had to admit, the ensemble was a bit extravagant—but not in a bad way. A newfound confidence surged through me, something I sorely needed. As I examined myself, a small knock sounded at my bedroom door. I saw Yara's head snap up. She went to answer it, and as soon as she saw who was on the other side, she dropped into a low curtsy. I knew instantly that it must be Loki. He must have used magic to arrive undetected; hence, the knock on my bedroom door rather than the main entrance.
"It's alright, Yara," I said, walking over and placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "He's here to escort me to the Bifrost. Is there anything else I need, or am I ready?"
"You are ready, Princess Aurora," she said simply, offering a warm smile. With another curtsy to Loki, she excused herself and left the room.
I stepped into the living area, but when I saw Loki, I had to fight to keep my mouth from falling open. I had seen him in his normal attire, but I wasn’t prepared to see him in full royal regalia. His outfit was just as extravagant as mine, draped in his signature black and green, but there was far more to it—golden chains and ornate plating adorned the leather. Yet what truly captured my attention was the helmet with its massive, curved horns.
I tried to suppress my laughter. I really did. But I couldn’t help myself and let out an amused chuckle. Loki’s lips twitched into a grin.
"So, from the way you're looking at me, I take it the outfit is acceptable, but the helmet is not?" he asked, clearly amused.
It took me a few tries to compose myself. The last thing I wanted was to offend him. "Loki, I’m sorry, but the helmet… it’s just not something I’m used to, I think," I added with my sweetest, most apologetic smile.
"It’s fine, Aurora. Like most things in Asgard, it’s more ceremonial than functional. It’s meant more for intimidation than aesthetics." With that, he removed the helmet.
"Well, I suppose it does look intimidating," I admitted. "It’s just… I know the man wearing it, so the effect is kind of lost on me."
That earned me a smile. He stepped forward and took my hand, lifting my arm slightly before motioning for me to spin. I twirled with a laugh.
"What are you doing?" I asked as I faced him again.
"You look very royal and beautiful today, Aurora. I just wanted to see the full effect before I drag you off to the Bifrost." His expression softened, his smile faltering just a little. "After today, you won’t be my secret anymore. You’ll be free to go wherever you please. I just wanted one last moment… You know me, I enjoy mischief. Sneaking around and keeping you as my secret was something I quite enjoyed. But beyond that, you’ll have to dedicate yourself to learning control over your seiðr . That means even more restrictions on your time, and on whom you spend it with. Your teacher will likely insist on daily lessons."
That thought had never occurred to me before. Of course, I knew I had to study seiðr , but I hadn’t considered how intense the training could be. Suddenly, an idea sparked in my mind. A mischievous one. I couldn't resist seeing if Loki would go for it.
"Loki, who is going to teach me seiðr ?" I asked, trying to gauge his reaction.
A curious look flashed in his eyes as he answered. "I do not know. But I suspect my mother will assign one of my former instructors to you. I have no need for them anymore—I’ve outgrown their teachings."
I smiled, keeping my expression as innocent as possible. "Don’t you think, given my level of seiðr —and how I acquired it in the first place—that I should be especially careful when practicing? We don’t know what might happen when I try to use it. You told me yourself that my seiðr level is quite high, especially with the dark magic from Fenrir’s blood."
A frown creased his brow as he considered my words. "You think your seiðr might be dangerous?"
Inwardly, I grinned. This was exactly where I wanted the conversation to go.
"Well, I don’t know. But I’d rather be safe than sorry. If I must learn to control this, wouldn’t it make sense for me to learn from the person with the most experience and the highest level of seiðr ? If something does go wrong, at least the most capable person would be there to handle it. It would ensure the safety of the palace, wouldn’t it?"
I looked up at him with wide, innocent eyes. He was quiet for a moment, clearly turning my words over in his mind. Then, slowly, a familiar spark of mischief appeared in his gaze, and a small smile played at his lips.
"I think I agree with your reasoning," he said smoothly, though I could sense the amusement behind it. "It would be best if your instructor were powerful enough to intervene should anything go wrong."
"Do you think this powerful person would want to teach me?" I asked, mirroring his mischievous smile.
"I think he could be persuaded. I’ll have to speak with my mother, but I doubt she’d object. The safety of Asgard might depend on it, after all—or so I’ve been told." He grinned.
That was the moment I lost it. I couldn’t hold my expression any longer and burst into laughter. Loki followed suit, laughing loudly with me.
"Aurora, I don’t think my parents knew what they were getting themselves into with you," he managed between chuckles. "You had me fooled at first, thinking you were actually scared or concerned."
I snickered. "Well, at hopefully we’ll get to spend more time together. And with the unknown origins of my magic, not to mention the fact that I’m not from Asgard, I do think the safest course is for you to be my instructor."
Loki nodded. "I’ll discuss it with my mother, but I don’t anticipate any issues. This arrangement will also keep your level of seiðr —and its origins—a secret. It’s hard to keep things hidden in the palace."
With that settled, Loki led me to the balcony and pointed to the golden dome at the end of the Rainbow Bridge. A large procession was making its way toward it.
"Lord Heimdall will activate the Bifrost shortly, creating the illusion of transporting you to Asgard," he explained.
As the dome began to move, Loki stepped behind me, wrapping his arms around my waist and pressing me against his chest. Goosebumps rose on my skin at his proximity.
"When it stops moving, I will teleport us there so it appears as though you have just arrived."
With a motion of his hand, Loki's helmet was back on his head, and as soon as the dome's spinning slowed, we teleported. When I opened my eyes, I found myself standing inside a golden dome. Loki carefully withdrew his arms from around my waist, took a few steps forward, and adopted a more formal stance.
"Lord Heimdall, I present to you Princess Aurora Wiliamsdóttir. Princess, allow me to introduce Lord Heimdall."
Lord Heimdall inclined his head in a bow, and I responded with a nod.
"It is a pleasure to meet you in person, Princess," he said in a deep, resonant voice.
Something about his tone suggested a deeper meaning. He was an imposing figure—dark-skinned, clad in gleaming golden armor, with a massive sword at his side. But his eyes were what truly stood out. They burned like a golden supernova, and I had the distinct feeling he could see straight through this entire charade.
"Thank you, my Lord. The pleasure is mine."
I sensed Loki shift closer, his breath warm as he whispered in my ear.
"Lord Heimdall sees all that transpires across the Nine Realms. Aside from Frigga, Odin, and Lady Eir, he has been informed about you. However, now is not the time to discuss it. My brother approaches with your escort, and he has been kept in the dark about your circumstances. Mother believed it best, as he lacks the skill to feign ignorance. Whether or not you wish to tell him later is entirely your choice." With that, he stepped back.
"Princess, if you would allow me?" Loki extended his hand.
I placed mine atop his and took a deep breath. Focus, Aurora. Channel your inner princess. Let’s put on a show.
Loki led me from the golden dome, where a large assembly awaited us. Soldiers or guards stood in formation, and at their head stood a towering man. His attire was just as extravagant as Loki’s, but his was silver and blue, accented with a flowing red cape. Long blond hair framed his face, and his beard was just as golden. He had piercing blue eyes and a massive hammer hanging from his belt.
"Brother," Loki greeted, walking us toward the man. "May I introduce Princess Aurora Wiliamsdóttir?" He presented my hand to his brother.
The blond man studied me openly as he took my hand, bowed slightly, and pressed a kiss to my fingers. I thought I heard Loki let out a soft grunt.
"The honor is mine, Princess Aurora Wiliamsdóttir," he declared in a booming yet pleasant voice. "I am Prince Thor Odinson, Prince of Asgard, though I hope you will do me the courtesy of calling me Thor." A charming smile crept onto his face.
I felt Loki’s irritation, confirmed by the quiet grunt he directed at his brother. "Really, brother? She has been here less than a minute, and you already wish to dispense with formalities?"
Thor and I exchanged amused glances, both of us clearly hearing Loki’s remark. I bit back a laugh at the brothers’ interaction, sensing this was routine between them.
"Thank you, Thor, for the honor. I hope I can persuade you to call me Aurora in return?" I said with a smile.
"I would be honored, Aurora." He shifted my hand in his grasp, smoothly pulling me to his side, just as Loki had before. "Would you allow me the privilege of escorting you into the palace, where I may introduce you to the King and Queen of Asgard?"
Formality had returned, a well-practiced ritual evident in his tone. It seemed Thor and Loki had performed this ceremony countless times. I nodded, and the formation of guards parted as Thor led me down the Rainbow Bridge. Moments later, Loki moved to my other side, and together we walked in measured steps, the guards marching in formation behind us.
The bridge itself was breathtaking, shimmering beneath our feet, and the view it provided of Asgard was even more spectacular. I let my gaze drift across the dazzling cityscape as we approached the palace. The walk was brief, and before I knew it, we stood before massive, ornate doors.
"This is the entrance to the throne room," Thor explained. "Prince Loki and I will escort you in and present you to the King and Queen. My father will say a few words, after which you will take your place on the steps below Loki and myself. Once the introductions are complete, someone will escort you to your chambers so you may rest."
I nodded again, unwilling to delay when I knew an audience awaited us beyond the doors. Taking a steadying breath, I centered myself. Loki's hand brushed the small of my back in reassurance, and I glanced at him with a grateful smile before the doors swung open.
The throne room was grand and resplendent, bathed in gold. Towering columns stretched toward the ceiling, and at the far end of the hall, two sets of stairs ascended—first black, then gold—leading to an imposing throne. Nobles lined either side of the room, their opulent attire marking their status. Their gazes locked onto me and the princes as we entered, Thor holding my hand, Loki at my other side. It felt like a slow procession down the aisle at a grand, if not somewhat reluctant, wedding.
I avoided meeting too many scrutinizing eyes, keeping my chin lifted and my focus fixed on Odin, seated at the throne’s peak. I shut out the emotions radiating from the gathered nobles, but one sentiment stood out above all—boredom. They must have been informed of my arrival, and though protocol demanded their presence, it was clear they found this ceremony tedious.
I was relieved that, as an empath, the collective emotions weren’t overwhelming me. They buzzed in the background, but perhaps Thor’s presence anchored me. His emotions were far easier to read, and he, too, was unmistakably bored. This was routine for him.
As we approached the base of the steps, I spotted Frigga standing at the highest point of the first staircase. As we reached the bottom, Thor and Loki inclined their heads, and I mirrored their gesture. A few moments later, Loki stepped toward his mother while Thor’s voice resonated through the chamber.
"Allfather, allow me to present Princess Aurora Wiliamsdóttir of Midgard."
A murmur rippled through the assembled nobles. With a subtle nod, Thor released my hand and joined Loki, standing a step below Frigga at the stairs' side.
Odin’s voice carried through the hall as he descended the golden steps of his throne. "The King of Asgard welcomes Princess Aurora Wiliamsdóttir and bids her welcome to this realm. A Wiliamsdóttir will always find a place in Asgard." He gestured for me to ascend and join Frigga, Thor, and Loki.
I bowed once more before making my way toward them. I meant to take a step below the princes, but Frigga extended her arms in greeting. Accepting the silent invitation, I stepped up, took her hands, and she pressed a kiss to my cheek. Linking her arm with mine, she turned me to face the gathered crowd.
I could see a smile on Loki's lips and a confused look on Thor's, and I understood that this must have been a deeply intimate gesture from Frigga. But there was no time to dwell on it, as Odin spoke again.
"Princess Aurora Williamsdóttir is the beloved daughter of King William of Midgard. Now that she has come of age, her father, a true friend of the throne of Asgard, has requested that she come here to be taught in the ways of Seiðr ."
A wave of soft murmurs rippled through the crowd, intrigue and suspicion thick in the air. I gasped slightly and focused on Frigga’s arm, trying to suppress the emotions pressing against my mind. These stronger emotions, were a lot harder to ignore.
"Seeing as her father is a loyal and trusted ally, I have gladly welcomed his daughter into my court. She will remain here for as long as she wishes and will be under the full protection of Asgard."
With that, Odin turned and made his way back to his throne. Frigga gently squeezed my arm and motioned for me to follow. As we stepped out of the throne room, another wave of emotions crashed over me. Luckily the further we walked, the more the intensity of suspicion and curiosity ebbed away, leaving only a faint hum of uncertainty.
"I'm glad that's over," I confided in Frigga as we continued down the hall, still arm in arm. "It’s strange, feeling the emotions of such a large gathering. At first, they were indifferent, but after Odin’s announcement, I feared they would overwhelm me."
Frigga nodded knowingly. "I told you before, my dear, your gift—while extraordinary—can also be a burden, especially in a crowd. But do not forget, it is still a gift. It will serve you well here, allowing you to sense the intentions of those around you."
"I can see how that might be useful," I admitted.
Frigga stopped and turned to face me, her gaze warm yet firm. "Aurora, I like you. You’re in a strange land with no memories, yet you have been a breath of fresh air. Your honesty and spirit are rare qualities here in Asgard. After seeing you in the healing wards for nearly two years, I have grown attached to you. I made a promise to myself that when you awoke, I would protect you. So please, do not hesitate to tell me if something troubles you. I meant it when I asked you to call me by my name, and I sincerely hope we can be friends." With that, she pulled me into a hug.
I felt the sincerity in her words, the warmth of her embrace, and I returned the hug.
"Thank you, Frigga," I whispered. Then, in a softer voice, I added, "I don’t remember my own mother, but I can only hope she was like you."
When we pulled apart, both of us had tears in our eyes. We exchanged small, understanding smiles, but before either of us could speak, footsteps echoed behind me. Frigga looked over my shoulder.
"Mother, there you are." Loki’s familiar voice filled the corridor as he approached. He took one look at us and immediately frowned. "Is something wrong?"
I wiped my eyes and let out a small laugh. "Nothing is wrong, Loki. Your mother is a wonderful woman, and we simply got a bit emotional. I assure you, all is well."
Frigga nodded, slipping her arm back through mine. "Will you walk with us to Aurora’s chambers? I assume you had a reason for seeking me out?"
Loki inclined his head, falling into step beside us. "Aurora and I spoke this morning, Mother. Have you considered who will instruct her in Seiðr ? Given the uncertainty surrounding how she acquired it, the level of her abilities, and the potential consequences, her tutor should be well-informed. I do not believe there is anyone here I would trust enough with that knowledge." He paused, allowing his words to settle before continuing. "That is why I would like to teach her myself. I am the most skilled Seiðr user in the palace, and I already know her history. It only makes sense."
Frigga studied him for a moment, then glanced at me. "I had not yet decided on her instructor, but your reasoning is sound. This way, we will not need to confide in someone outside our family." She seemed deep in thought, then nodded slowly. "Very well. It would be wise for you to oversee her training. However, I must stress this—if at any point you believe this arrangement is not working, or if there are any concerns, you must come to me immediately. As I told Aurora, I have her best interests at heart. And should the need arise, I am more than capable of instructing her myself, just as I did with you."
Loki’s face brightened with a satisfied smile. "You have my word, Mother. If any issues arise, you will be the first to know."
With that settled, we walked in silence. I was led to a part of the palace I had never seen before. As we entered a heavily guarded wing, I found myself in a grand, opulent hallway lined with polished doors.
Frigga stopped in front of one and gestured toward it. "This wing is reserved for royalty, which is why the security is so strict," she explained. "The rooms on your left belong to Thor and Loki. At the very end of the hall, you will find Odin’s and my chambers. The other wings we passed are reserved for visiting royalty, though at present, you are our only guest. With all the intrigue surrounding you at court, I felt it best to keep you close." She pushed open the door and motioned for me to enter.
My breath caught as I stepped inside. My previous room had been grand, but this was something else entirely. The sitting area alone was vast, with an ornate dining table, a grand fireplace with plush seating arranged before it, and a desk tucked into a cozy corner. Another corner, near the balcony, held an inviting arrangement of luxurious sofas. The room’s size nearly doubled my former quarters, including the adjoining bedroom and bath.
Frigga pointed to various doors. "This first door leads to a small bathroom for guests. The second opens into a separate chamber, which you may use however you wish. The last door leads to your bedchamber, which includes a private bathroom. The balcony overlooks the castle, and since we are on the top floor, there is no risk of prying eyes. The staircase on the side of the balcony leads down to a private garden, accessible only to the royal family. You are welcome to enjoy it whenever you please."
The grandeur of it all was overwhelming, and Frigga must have sensed it, for she wrapped her arms around me in a reassuring embrace. "We will leave you to change now. Loki will return shortly to escort you to the hall so you may socialize before dinner. Call for your maid if you need assistance. Tomorrow, we will discuss selecting a handmaiden to attend to you."
That caught me off guard. "Is there a difference between Yara’s role as a maid and that of a handmaiden?"
Loki answered, "Yes. A maid cleans your chambers and serves your meals. A handmaiden, however, is more of a companion. She will assist you in dressing, dine with you if you wish, and accompany you on walks through the palace or gardens. Her duty is to ensure your life here runs smoothly. If you had truly been a Midgardian princess, your handmaiden would likely have been a close friend—perhaps a noble’s daughter who traveled with you and acted as your trusted companion."
I paused for a moment, considering his words. The thought of selecting a stranger to fill such an important role in my life unsettled me. Yara had been so kind to me, and I was finally breaking through the tension that my princess title had created between us. Each time she assisted me, she seemed more at ease in my presence.
I turned to Frigga. “Is it possible for Yara to take that role? I truly like her, and she has been wonderful these past few days.”
Frigga considered my request. “It is uncommon for a girl her age to advance her station so significantly. She is young and not nearly as highborn as a handmaiden to a princess should be. But if you are certain, we can give her the opportunity. I would advise a trial period, however. You have little experience with servants, and your preferences might change. If you wish, she can fill the role until you find someone more suitable. And if that never happens, you may always keep her on.”
I smiled, nodding. “Thank you, Frigga. That would be perfect.”
“You may inform Yara yourself if you like. I cannot imagine she would refuse such a rise in station. I will make the necessary arrangements for her transition to handmaiden.” With that, Frigga smiled and left the room.
I looked up to find Loki standing near the fireplace, watching me with amusement.
“What?” I asked, puzzled.
Loki shook his head, still smiling. “It’s just amusing to see how you take the lives of those around you and make them better.”
His words confused me, and I was sure it showed.
“Aurora, at court, people act out of self-interest, always seeking ways to improve their own standing. You have been an official princess for less than a day, and already you’re trying to improve the lives of those around you. I have seen people choose their handmaidens based on noble lineage, seeking the highest-ranking daughters to serve them—not because they liked them, but because of the prestige it would bring. And yet, you have chosen a girl who isn’t of noble birth, someone whose position barely allows her to work at the palace. I doubt she would have ever reached the level of handmaiden on her own.”
His words radiated warmth, and I knew he was sincere. But he made it sound as though I were being charitable—almost saintly.
“I think I’m a bit more selfish than that, Loki.” I met his gaze. “I like Yara, and I would rather have someone I enjoy being around than a stranger of higher birth or station. Yes, the thought of improving Yara’s life is a pleasant one, but I chose her because I appreciate her company. It’s quite selfish, actually.” I grinned.
Loki shook his head, taking my hand. “The fact that you would rather have a friend beside you than someone of higher birth or importance is what makes all the difference. Please, don’t change, Aurora. Always put your friends before titles. It’s a rare quality, and I hope you never lose it.”
He bowed and kissed my hand, making me blush. Before I could respond, he gave me a small wink.
“I will leave you now. When you are ready, just let Yara know to send me a message, and I will return so we can finally move beyond your room.” He spoke dramatically before disappearing.
“Yara, could you come and help me change?” I called into the empty room, feeling rather foolish as I did. Magic was something I still needed to get used to. There was no way I could remove this dress on my own. Within moments, she entered, as though it were the most natural thing in the world. I could certainly get used to the benefits of magic.
She quickly helped me change into another gown, similar to the one I had been wearing, though this one was a deep purple instead of teal. I swiftly changed my jewelry to match.
“Is there anything else I can do for you, Princess Aurora?” Yara asked with a curtsy.
“Yara, there is something I want to ask you. The queen informed me that I must choose a handmaiden—someone who will take over the duties you’ve been performing for me these past few days.”
She nodded, though I sensed her nervousness. “Yes, Princess Aurora,” she said, fidgeting with her skirt. “I am aware that I have been overstepping my place as a maid, but I must say, I have enjoyed serving you. I will look forward to meeting your new handmaiden and taking my orders from her.”
After a brief hesitation, she softly added, “But it will be a shame that I will no longer have the pleasure of speaking with you directly. My place will be to take orders from your handmaiden, not to trouble you.”
A blush rose to her cheeks, and I could tell she meant every word. She only spoke so freely because I had given her permission to do so. I was grateful for her honesty.
I took Yara’s hand and motioned for her to sit in the chair near the fireplace while I took the one across from her.
“Yara, I asked the queen if you could be my handmaiden. Is that something you would be willing to do?”
Her eyes widened, and her mouth opened as if to respond, but no words came.
“I like you, and I value your thoughts. But I would never ask you to do something you are uncomfortable with. The queen has no objections to you becoming my handmaiden. However, she did say it would be on a trial basis, so we can get to know each other better.”
Yara was still staring, her emotions swirling in a way I could feel through our joined hands. I held them gently, waiting as the shock in her heart slowly settled into something warmer. It was hard to name—friendship, gratitude, or perhaps a mix of both—but whatever it was, it felt good.
Finally, she exhaled, her expression softening. Then, with a bright, almost blinding smile, she said, "Princess Aurora, I would be honored to be your handmaiden. I will do my best to serve you and advise you to the best of my abilities."
"Thank you, Yara," I said, returning her smile. "The Queen is making all the necessary arrangements for you. I’m not sure what that involves, but if you need anything, just let me know. Is there anything I should do before I leave?"
She hesitated, thoughtful. "Would you like to interview replacement maids? I could select a few for you to meet." A brief pause, then she quickly added, "Or, if you prefer, I could choose one for you."
There was something cautious in her eyes, as if she wasn’t sure whether she was overstepping by offering. It only made me smile.
"Yes, Yara, please. I wouldn’t even know where to begin choosing one, and since you’ll be the one working with her the most, it makes sense for you to decide. Just… make sure it’s someone we can trust. You know how much I value my privacy."
She nodded, small but firm, and in that moment, I felt completely sure—I had made the right choice in appointing her.
"If that’s all, Yara, could you send word to Prince Loki that I’m ready?"
"It would be my pleasure," she said, rising from her chair. With a graceful curtsy, she slipped from the room.
A few minutes later, a knock sounded at my door. When I opened it, Loki stood there, a familiar mischievous smile playing at his lips.
"Are you ready to explore the castle?" he asked, extending his hand in invitation.
"Just show me the way," I replied, slipping my hand into his.