Chapter CLIV: Talia
Talia’s memories of that day were clear and painful: the day her mother closed her eyes for the last time, leaving her and Maya in a world suddenly too big, too cold, and terrifyingly empty. Her mother’s smile, worn and frail in those final days, haunted her still. At just sixteen, Talia felt the crushing weight of her new reality—the burden of raising Maya, who was only four, and the uncertainty of their survival.
But then came Lady Alicent, with her soft voice and warm eyes, bringing hope where there had been none. Lady Alicent had been a frequent visitor to their modest home when her mother had been well, entrusting her with the delicate and expensive gowns befitting a noblewoman. The news of her passing touched Lady Alicent deeply, and without hesitation, she took Talia and Maya into her care.
“Your mother was a talented woman who always made me my favorite dresses,” Lady Alicent had told Talia. “It would be an honor to help her daughters.”
Days passed swiftly as Talia and Maya settled into Lady Alicent’s grand home, a place so unlike their own simple abode. Yet the real shock came when Lady Alicent spoke of her plan. The Dragon Queen herself was seeking a new handmaiden, and Lady Alicent had recommended Talia for the role. Talia’s breath had caught in her throat. The idea of serving Queen Isabella, living in the Great Palace—the most opulent court in existence—was beyond anything she could have dreamed.
The day Talia first entered the Great Palace was a day she would never forget. The marble halls gleamed, the light catching the intricate carvings of dragons and celestial symbols that adorned the ceilings. Every step she took echoed with history and power. Her heart hammered in her chest as she was led into the queen’s chambers.
Isabella stood by a window, sunlight streaming in and wrapping her in a golden glow. Talia was struck not just by her beauty—the auburn hair, sharp eyes, and regal bearing—but by the gentleness that seemed to radiate from her. She turned and smiled at Talia, a smile that seemed to ease the tension in the room instantly.
“You must be Talia,” Isabella said, her voice warm and welcoming. “Lady Alicent has spoken highly of you.”
Talia dropped into a deep curtsy, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on her. “Your Majesty,” she managed, her voice trembling slightly.
“Rise, child,” Isabella said, stepping forward. She reached out and took Talia’s hand, guiding her up. The queen’s touch was warm, and her gaze held kindness, not the distant, cold authority Talia had feared and expected from the powerful Dragon Queen. “Be most welcome.”
Talia blinked back sudden tears of relief. She hadn’t expected such warmth. “Thank you, Your Majesty. I will serve you with all my heart.”
“Good,” Isabella said with a smile. She turned and beckoned. “Come, there are some little ones eager to meet you.”
Mahir, twelve years old and with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes, stepped forward first. He studied her with a boyish curiosity. “Are you going to help Mother with everything?” he asked.
“Yes,” Talia said, smiling at his earnestness. “And I’ll help look after all of you if you need.”
Dayan, nine, shy but with an unmistakable spark of adventure, peeked out from behind Mahir and gave her a hesitant wave. Little Kira, only seven, giggled as she approached, her curls bouncing with each step. She reached for Talia’s hand as if they had always known each other.
“I like your dress,” Kira said, her wide eyes full of innocence.
Talia chuckled, the last of her nerves melting away. “Thank you, Princess. My mother made it for me. I like yours too.”
Isabella watched the exchange with a soft expression. “I think you’re going to do very well here, Talia.”
The days that followed were filled with endless activity. Talia learned the rhythm of palace life, from helping the queen dress in her elaborate gowns to assisting with her correspondence and keeping an eye on the younger children. Each day brought new lessons and challenges, but Talia met them with determination. The palace was vast, a maze of corridors that bustled with nobles, servants, and knights. Among them were the older princes and princesses. Talia would sometimes spot Zayr or Rya dashing through the halls, their laughter trailing behind them like echoes of freedom. Kai, on the other hand, moved with a composed grace that belied his young age. But the one face she had not seen up close was the crown prince, Ikkar.
She heard whispers about him, tales of his sharp mind and bold spirit, how he walked the line between princely duty and mischief. The anticipation of finally seeing him face-to-face left a curious knot in her chest, though she buried it beneath her duties.
***
The night of Prince Ikkar’s seventeenth birthday ball arrived with the entire palace alight with excitement. The great hall was transformed into a scene of splendor, shimmering with silks and jewels, and the air buzzed with the sounds of laughter and music. Talia stood at the edge of the hall, assisting the other handmaidens as they ensured that the queen’s guests were well attended.
When the fireworks began, their crackling bursts of color illuminated the night sky. Talia stepped out onto the terrace, the display reflected in her wide eyes. She had seen fireworks before, but never this close. It felt almost magical, as if the stars had descended just for the night.
The moment held her so completely that she almost didn’t feel the subtle weight of a gaze resting on her. But then the sensation prickled at the back of her neck, and she turned her head slightly, catching sight of a young man standing at the far side of the terrace. His dark hair fell in waves around his face, and his blue eyes, so intense and bright, were locked on her. Talia’s breath caught in her throat. He had a commanding presence that set him apart from the other nobles.
Before she could process the moment or even contemplate why he was looking at her, a familiar voice called out, breaking the spell.
“Talia,” Queen Isabella said from behind her. “Kira isn’t feeling well. Would you see to her bed?”
Talia turned, curtsied quickly. “Of course, Your Majesty.” She glanced back just once before hurrying away.
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