Chapter 233_1
~Flashback
A month ago…
Reneira sat on her balcony, watching the fiery leaves of autumn drift from the trees like glowing embers.
Suddenly, a strange bird appeared in the garden, circling once above the old apple tree before settling gracefully on a branch. Its color matches the leaves.
Ren jumped to her feet and spun around, only to crash straight into Arkilla's chest.
"Whoa, my Luna! Where are you rushing off to? Did you think of something that might help His Highness?"
Ren shook her head briskly, already storming toward the door.
"Arkilla, don't follow me. I need some time alone in the garden. Don't let anyone into the apple grove."
The startled guard opened her mouth to protest, but her words caught in her throat as Ren closed the door firmly behind her.
