Lilithe and Rogue moved swiftly through the dimly lit corridors of the castle, their footsteps echoing off the stone walls. The chaos of the explosions still reverberated through the castle, but they had managed to find a moment of calm in the aftermath. As they approached the Queen's private office, the door swung open to reveal Bastien, Lucy, and Sting already waiting inside.

Bastien's face was a mask of concern as he stood by the window, his eyes scanning the darkened courtyard below. Lucy sat on a velvet-upholstered chair, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, while Sting stood behind her, his expression serious and focused as he held Lucy's hand.

"Your Majesty," Bastien said, bowing slightly as Lilithe and Rogue entered. "We've been waiting for you."

Lilithe nodded, her regal demeanor back in place despite the turmoil of the evening. "Thank you all for gathering here. We have much to discuss."

Rogue guided Lilithe to her chair behind the desk, and then took a position by her side, his presence a reassuring strength. "We encountered an assassin posing as a guard," he began, his voice steady. "There are two bodies in the dungeons that need to be investigated. They may hold further clues to who else is involved."

"We need to act quickly," Lucy said, her voice firm despite the worry etched on her face.

Sting stepped forward, his demeanor protective. "I'll head to the dungeons and check the bodies myself. We were able to capture one assassin. I'll report back anything I find."

Bastien nodded in agreement. "Do it. And investigate him thoroughly."

As Sting left the room, Bastien turned his attention to Lilithe. "We need to tighten security. Double the guards and keep a close watch on everyone within these walls."

Rogue nodded. "Agreed."

Lilithe's gaze turned to Rogue, gratitude and resolve shining in her eyes. "Rogue, you've proven yourself invaluable tonight. Please accept my gratitude. I trust that you will help oversee the investigation."

Rogue bowed slightly. "As you command, Your Majesty."

Lucy stood and approached Lilithe, her concern evident. "Lilithe, you need to be careful. I recommend that you conserve some of your magic each night."

Lilithe reached out and took Lucy's hand, squeezing it gently. "It is not possible. I uphold this tradition as my predecessors have before me and will continue to do so."

Bastien placed a reassuring hand on Lucy's shoulder. "We'll protect her. Don't worry."

Rogue's eyes met Lilithe's, a silent promise of loyalty and protection passing between them. "I promise that nothing will happen to you, Your Majesty."

"I have faith in you."

Lucy found sleep elusive that night. Her thoughts drifted back to the events of the past six months, the upheavals and the changes, leaving her feeling adrift and alone in the large room she had been brought to. It was difficult not to think about how her life had shifted so dramatically, especially as she lay in the bed, feeling the emptiness beside her.

She wouldn't admit it, but she had grown used to Natsu sleeping in the same bed, to the warmth of his body and the comforting way he would hold her through the night. Especially after the Eclipse Gate incident, Natsu had taken to always being near her, ensuring her safety and well-being. When he left her, his hugs were tighter and lasted longer, something Gajeel had once explained as a scent marking behavior—a dragon slayer thing to ward off others.

In her new place with Sabertooth, sleeping alone was a struggle. She missed the warmth and the sense of security Natsu provided. Sometimes, she summoned Plue for company, but it wasn't the same. Yukino would occasionally stay with her, but most nights, it was just her and the oppressive silence of her room.

A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. "Lucy?"

Standing from her seat by the window, she moved to open the door and found Sting and Lector standing there. Sting had changed out of his formal suit and into more comfortable loungewear, looking as tired as she felt.

"Hi, Sting," she smiled, trying to mask her fatigue. "What can I do for you?"

"I just finished my interrogation with the assassin we captured alive," he said, his face grim. "He ended up killing himself."

"What happened?" Lucy opened the door wider to let him inside.

Sting strode in as Lector flew to her bed, curling into a ball and falling asleep almost instantly. "He refused to answer any questions. Just kept repeating that more assassins would come for the Queen until the job was finished. That they were getting closer and she would be dead by the end of the Starlight Festival."

"Nothing else?" Lucy asked, closing the door behind him.

Sting shook his head, collapsing onto her couch with a tired sigh, running a hand through his blonde hair. "He broke his own tooth and ingested the poison inside. We got nothing more from him."

"Can we get background checks on them? Find out if they belong to any official assassination guilds?" Lucy suggested, taking a seat across from him and drawing her legs to her chest, resting her chin on her knees.

Sting hummed in agreement. "That's actually a good idea. We can look into that in the morning. I still have to go speak with Bastien and Rogue tonight."

"Can you stay? Just for a bit?" Lucy reached for his hand as he stood up, her eyes pleading. "Please?"

Sting stared at her, his eyes softening with understanding. He could see the exhaustion and loneliness in her eyes. Nodding, he took a seat back on the couch and opened his arms for her. Hesitant at first, Lucy crawled over and nestled into his side, his arms wrapping around her securely. The warmth and familiarity of his embrace immediately made her relax, a sense of peace washing over her.

"You're not alone, Lucy," Sting murmured, resting his chin atop her head. "We're here for you. I'm here for you."

She closed her eyes, savoring the comfort of his words and his presence. "Thank you, Sting. I just... I miss the way things used to be, but I am grateful for what I have now."

"I know," he replied softly, his hand rubbing soothing circles on her back. "But you're strong, Lucy. You'll get through this. And I'll be here to help you every step of the way."

Their bond had been growing stronger since she joined Sabertooth, and moments like this only deepened it. Sting's protective nature and the genuine care he showed for her made her heart flutter. She hadn't realized how much she had come to rely on him until now.

As she drifted off to sleep in his arms, she felt a sense of security she hadn't felt in a long time. Sting watched her, his own heart swelling with affection.

Rogue stood diligently beside the chamber doors, watching Queen Lilithe as she moved about her bedroom. She had changed into a strapless white gown that elegantly complimented her feminine figure. Her pink hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, and she hummed a soft lullaby that he hadn't heard before as she prepared for bed.

They hadn't spoken since he had accompanied her to her chambers after their meeting with the others. Her large wolves lay peacefully beside the fireplace, barely acknowledging his presence.

"You can sit on the couch," her voice was soft and melodic, breaking the silence. She peered at him from beside her bed, amusement briefly glittering in her eyes. "It must be uncomfortable to just stand there if you are to keep watch over me all night."

Rogue nodded, feeling a slight relief at her offer. "Indeed it is, your highness." He took his seat in the chair closest to her bed, ready to act if anything happened.

Lilithe shed her ruffled, white robe and draped it over the bedpost. Slipping off her matching slippers, she gracefully climbed into bed. Her every movement exuded regality, embodying the essence of a monarch.

There was an easy gracefulness to her, even in the simple, mundane things she did. Rogue couldn't help but admire her as she settled under the covers, her face softening as the lullaby continued to flow from her lips.

"Do you always sing before bed?" Rogue asked, his voice low to not disturb the quiet atmosphere.

Lilithe paused for a moment, looking at him thoughtfully. "It's a habit from my childhood. My mother used to sing this lullaby to me and my sister." Her eyes grew distant, reflecting a mixture of fondness and sorrow.

"It's beautiful," Rogue said, his tone sincere. "So are you."

Lilithe blinked, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "Thank you, Rogue. You are kind."

He felt a tug in his chest, a desire to protect her beyond the duty he had been assigned. "Your safety is my priority, your highness. You can rest easy knowing I'm here."

She smiled, a small but genuine expression. "It means a lot to me, knowing that you are."

As she closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep, Rogue remained vigilant, his eyes never straying far from her peaceful form. He knew the weight of the crown she bore, the responsibilities and dangers that came with it. In this moment of calm, he vowed silently to keep her safe, no matter the cost.

Sometime after Lilithe had fallen asleep, the moonlight from her open balcony doors cast a gentle glow on her features, illuminating her face in ethereal beauty. Rogue couldn't help but admire her, realizing how different she appeared without the facade of royalty and indifference. Her peaceful expression stirred something within him, prompting a fleeting smile.

He leaned back in his chair, the crackle of the fire mixing with her breathing and the lingering melody of the lullaby she had hummed before. The atmosphere was soothing, easing him into a relaxed state as he sunk into the shadows of her room.

Just as he was on the verge of dozing off, his dragon instincts bubbled to the surface. Rogue pondered whether to leave the balcony doors open. The cool night breeze tempted him, but he decided against it to protect her highness from catching a cold. As he moved to close the doors, a faint, unfamiliar scent caught his attention, accompanied by the subdued growls of the wolves. His instincts alerted him that something was amiss.

Blending into the shadows, Rogue stealthily made his way to the Queen's wolves by the fireplace. To his surprise, he found the once menacing wolves now fast asleep, adding to the eerie atmosphere. Sensing danger, he remained concealed in the darkness of her bedroom, scanning for any signs of intrusion.

A soft rustle and a flicker of movement near the balcony doors drew his attention. Two figures dressed in black slipped into the room, their movements swift and silent. They bore an unfamiliar insignia on their bodies, hinting at their allegiance. Rogue's eyes narrowed as he recognized the threat.

One of the assassins moved with practiced precision, inching closer to the bed where Lilithe lay in serene slumber. The other remained near the balcony, keeping watch. Rogue's heart pounded as he watched the first assassin draw a knife, the blade glinting menacingly in the moonlight. In an instant, the intruder was straddling the Queen, his knife poised to strike.

Rogue reacted with lightning speed, his shadow magic ensnaring the would-be assassin and yanking him away from Lilithe just as the knife descended. The man let out a surprised grunt as he was thrown across the room, crashing into a wall. The second assassin lunged at Rogue, but he was ready. Shadows coiled around the intruder, immobilizing him and rendering him helpless.

Lilithe awoke with a start, her eyes wide with fear as she took in the chaotic scene. Rogue swiftly dispatched the second assassin, knocking him unconscious after an annoying and tedious fight. The room fell silent except for the heavy breathing of Rogue and Lilithe.

Lilithe reached for Rogue, her fingers trembling as they found his arm. On instinct, he was at her side, his presence solid and reassuring. She clung to him, seeking comfort and safety in his embrace. Rogue's dragon instincts purred with satisfaction as his intended sought him for solace. His arms wrapped around her protectively, holding her close.

"It's alright, your highness," Rogue murmured, his voice soothing. "You're safe now."

Lilithe buried her face in his chest, her body trembling with the remnants of fear. "Rogue," she whispered, her voice shaky. "I... I was so scared."

"I know," he said softly, his hand gently stroking her back. "I'll always be here to protect you."

The warmth of his embrace and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat calmed her, and she took a deep breath, trying to steady herself.

Rogue's eyes flicked to the unconscious bodies of the assassins, his expression hardening. "I need to take these bodies to the dungeon. We need to find out who sent them and why. I'll need to contact the others about the attempt and arrange for their interrogation."

Lilithe nodded, her grip on him tightening for a moment before she forced herself to let go. "I'll be alright," she said, though her voice wavered. "Just... be careful."

He cupped her face gently, his thumb brushing away a stray tear. "I promise. I'll be back soon."

Reluctantly, Lilithe stepped back, watching as Rogue moved to the unconscious assassins. Using his shadows, he bound them securely, ensuring they couldn't escape once they awoke. As he worked, his mind was already racing with plans and contingencies, determined to uncover the truth behind this attack.

Once the assassins were securely restrained, Rogue turned back to Lilithe, his expression softening. "Stay here, keep the doors locked, and don't let anyone in except for me or someone you trust implicitly. I'll be back as soon as I can."

Lilithe nodded, her eyes lingering on him as he gathered the bodies. "Rogue," she called softly as he moved toward the door.

He paused, looking back at her. "Yes, your highness?"

"Thank you," she whispered, her eyes filled with gratitude and something deeper, something unspoken.

Rogue's lips curved into a faint smile. "Always," he replied, then slipped out of the room, the unconscious assassins in tow.

Rogue and Sting exited the cell, their fists bruised and covered in blood, a grim testament to the intense interrogation they had just conducted. The heavy iron door clanged shut behind them, echoing through the dimly lit dungeon corridor. They walked in silence for a few moments, the air thick with tension and the lingering scent of blood.

Sting wiped his hands on a rag, trying to clean off the worst of it. "Well, that was something," he muttered, glancing at Rogue. "Turns out it was a noblewoman who hired them. Someone with a lot of money and a lot of hate for the Queen."

Rogue nodded, his expression unreadable. "They wouldn't give us a name. Just that she was influential and determined."

Sting shook his head, a frustrated sigh escaping his lips. "We've narrowed it down, but without a name, it's like finding a needle in a haystack."

Rogue's jaw tightened. "We'll figure it out. We have to."

Sting's eyes flickered with amusement as he looked at his friend. "You know, you seemed pretty eager to protect the Queen back there. Got a soft spot for her, don't you?"

Rogue shot him a sharp look, but there was no real anger in his eyes. "And what about you and Lucy? You think I haven't noticed the way you look at her? She's your mate, isn't she?"

Sting chuckled, shaking his head. "Yeah, she is. But this isn't about me, Rogue. I'm just saying, it's obvious you care about Lilithe. More than just a hired bodyguard should."

Rogue's expression softened, his gaze distant as he thought of Lilithe. "It's not that simple, Sting. She's the Queen. She has responsibilities, a kingdom to rule. And I'm just..."

"A dragon who wants to protect his mate," Sting finished for him, his tone serious now. "I get it. Trust me, I do. But you can't let that stop you. If you care about her, you have to let her know otherwise it can end badly."

Rogue sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. "Don't remind me."

Sting clapped a hand on his shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "If anyone can handle it, it's you."

Rogue looked at his friend, a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Thanks."

Sting grinned, his usual cocky demeanor returning. "Anytime, partner. Now, let's get back to the others and figure out our next move."

As they walked back up the winding staircase to the main part of the castle, Rogue couldn't help but think about what Sting had said. He would have to be honest with her, but how does one go about telling their destined mate that she belonged to him and vice versa.

Rogue and Sting walked briskly through the castle's grand corridors, their minds focused on the urgent task ahead. They arrived at Bastien's chambers, knocking sharply before entering. Bastien looked up from his desk, his expression serious as he took in their battered hands and determined faces.

"Bastien," Sting began without preamble, "we've got news. The assassins mentioned a noblewoman who hired them. Someone influential, but they couldn't give us a name."

Bastien's eyes narrowed. "A noblewoman, you say? That narrows it down, but not by much. There are plenty of noblewomen with the means and motivation to hire assassins."

Rogue stepped forward. "We need a list. Every noblewoman in the kingdom who could potentially be behind this."

Bastien nodded, reaching into a drawer and pulling out a thick ledger. "I've already compiled a list of all the noblewomen in the kingdom. It's extensive, but it's the best place to start."

He handed the ledger to Sting, who flipped through the pages, his eyes scanning the names. "This is going to take time," Sting muttered. "But it's a start."

Rogue looked at Bastien. "I'll continue to act as the Queen's bodyguard. It's too dangerous for her to be unprotected, especially now."

Bastien agreed. "That's a wise decision. We can't afford to let our guard down, not even for a moment."

Sting nodded, closing the ledger with a decisive snap. "Lucy and I will take over the list. We'll start investigating each name, see if we can find any leads."

Bastien gave a curt nod. "Good. Keep me informed of any developments. We need to root out this threat before it gets any closer to the Queen."

Rogue turned to Sting, his expression serious. "Be careful. We don't know how deep this conspiracy goes."

Sting smirked, his usual confidence shining through. "You worry too much, Rogue. We'll handle it. You just keep the Queen safe."

Rogue gave a small smile, grateful for his friend's unwavering support. "

As they left Bastien's office, Sting turned to Rogue, his expression more serious. "We'll find out who's behind this, Rogue. And we'll stop them."

Rogue nodded, his resolve firm. "I know we will. Just stay vigilant."

They parted ways, Sting heading towards Lucy's quarters with the ledger in hand, and Rogue making his way back to the Queen's chambers. He couldn't shake the feeling that the stakes were higher than ever, but he knew one thing for certain: he would do whatever it took to protect Lilithe.

Lucy stood in the Throne Room alongside Bastien, her posture the epitome of grace and poise. Now that Lilithe knew of her presence, there was no need to hide any longer. The weight of countless curious stares settled on her—some familiar, others foreign, but all tinged with a mix of curiosity, perplexity, and lust.

It surprised her how easily she slipped back into the role of a proper Lady, a noblewoman. The maturity she had gained over the years allowed her to understand the intricate dance of court politics. As a child, she and her friends—Emma, Lilithe, Mephisto, and Bastien—had often snuck into these gatherings just to watch. Back then, she had found them dreadfully boring. But now, with her adult eyes, she saw the value in every word exchanged, every gesture made.

Her gaze swept over the faces surrounding her. Many were familiar, friends from her youth now aged by time, others were new. Yet, one face stood out, a woman she remembered well from those childhood days—a woman who had always been at the center of every piece of gossip.

"So, the rumors are true," came a voice, smooth and knowing. "It's a sight to see you again, Lady Lucilia of Fiore."

Lucy turned, meeting the eyes of Lady Jessamine of Mystgate. She was as beautiful as ever, her dark tan skin glowing against the crimson silk and jewels she wore, her dark brown eyes as sharp as ever.

"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance once again, Lady Jessamine," Lucy replied, her smile warm but guarded. "You still look amazing."

Jessamine appraised her with a critical eye. "Oh, how you've blossomed into a beautiful woman like Layla. I do hope that she was at peace in the end."

"Of course," Lucy said, her voice steady. "She sacrificed herself for the greater good."

Knowing the truth behind her mother's death had given Lucy a sense of peace. Layla had fulfilled her ancestral duty, and her sacrifice had not been in vain. It also helped her understand her father's reluctance to see her pursue a life of magic—he feared losing her as he had lost Layla.

"I hear that you're here as a representative of Queen Hisui's kingdom," Jessamine noted, her gaze flickering over Lucy's attire. "It must be true if you're here in the flesh."

"Indeed it is," Lucy replied smoothly. "Queen Hisui had other matters to attend to and was unable to come herself. So she sent me, one of her closest friends, to come in her stead."

Jessamine hummed thoughtfully. "I see."

Lucy didn't consider Jessamine a friend or foe; she was a wild card, always had been. Jessamine's penchant for information was well-known, and she wielded it like a weapon.

"Have you heard the rumors of Queen Lilithe and Lord Bastien's supposed secret engagement?" Jessamine asked, a sly smile playing on her lips.

"Indeed I have," Lucy clicked her tongue. "I suspect you know better than to believe such petty gossip, especially since you know the truth behind their relationship."

"Maybe," Jessamine shrugged. "But things have changed since you last stepped into our world, your Ladyship. Things aren't always as they seem."

Lucy couldn't argue with that. She had been gone for so long. Who was she to come back and expect everything to be the same, especially since she had just regained her memories a few days prior? Lilithe was a Queen, bound to have suitors, and someone to marry to help rule. Why had she never asked Lilithe about her personal life? She had been so caught up in her own life, she hadn't taken the chance to fully soak in the fact that she had another family here.

"You're correct, I've been gone for so long," Lucy admitted. "Yet, as far as I'm concerned, I do believe that information is the currency of our world."

Lady Jessamine smirked. "I do hope you're prepared to make a deal then, young Lucy?"

Lucy blinked, but then her lips curved into a knowing smile. "Is there any other way?"

Jessamine chuckled. "You were always bright."

"Shall we excuse ourselves to take a stroll in the gardens?" Lucy suggested.

Queen Lilithe had already left, which meant her courtiers were free to do as they pleased. She was preparing for the Starlight Festival and her duty that needed to be fulfilled tonight.

"I'd love to," Lucy smiled.

As they walked out into the gardens, the moonlight casting a silvery glow on the path, Lucy felt a mix of nostalgia and determination. She was back in a world she had once known, a world she was beginning to understand anew. And with allies like Bastien and enigmatic figures like Jessamine, she felt more than ready to navigate the intricate web of court life, if it meant saving Lilithe.

The Queen had taken refuge in her private rooms for the day, seeking solace away from the prying eyes of her court. After changing into her nightgown, she felt a familiar presence behind her, one that had become a comforting constant in the past few days. Turning, she saw Rogue, the Dragon Slayer who had been her steadfast shadow.

He looked exhausted. Concern etched her features as she frowned. He must have been up all night, tirelessly ensuring her safety.

"Rogue," she murmured softly, her voice tinged with concern. "You need to get some sleep."

Rogue shook his head. "I am alright, Your Highness."

Sighing, she took his hand, her touch gentle but firm, and led him to her bed. She all but pushed him onto the plush mattress, her hands resting on her hips as she stared him down with a mixture of authority and care. "Sleep," she commanded. "You are exhausted. How can I expect protection if you are in no state to properly protect me?"

Rogue hesitated but then conceded with a small nod. "You require rest as well," he said quietly.

"I shall join you," she replied, moving to her usual side of the bed with a determined grace.

"Is that appropriate, Your Highness?" Rogue asked, his tone respectful but filled with genuine concern.

"Lilithe," she corrected gently.

The Queen had taken refuge in her private rooms for the day, seeking solace away from the prying eyes of her court. After changing into her nightgown, she felt a familiar presence behind her, one that had become a comforting constant in the past few days. Turning, she saw Rogue, the Dragon Slayer who had been her steadfast shadow.

He looked exhausted. Concern etched her features as she frowned. He must have been up all night, tirelessly ensuring her safety.

"Rogue," she murmured softly, her voice tinged with concern. "You need to get some sleep."

Rogue shook his head. "I am alright, Your Highness."

Sighing, she took his hand, her touch gentle but firm, and led him to her bed. She all but pushed him onto the plush mattress, her hands resting on her hips as she stared him down with a mixture of authority and care. "Sleep," she commanded. "You are exhausted. How can I expect protection if you are in no state to properly protect me?"

Rogue hesitated but then conceded with a small nod. "You require rest as well," he said quietly.

"I shall join you," she replied, moving to her usual side of the bed with a determined grace.

"Is that appropriate, Your Highness?" Rogue asked, his tone respectful but filled with genuine concern.

"Lilithe," she corrected gently.

"Pardon me, Your Highness," he began, but she cut him off with a warm smile.

"My name is Lilithe," she repeated. "You have saved my life three times now. You have more than earned the right to use my first name."

As she settled beside him, she couldn't help but reflect on the bond that had formed between them. Rogue, with his steadfast loyalty and quiet strength, had become more than just a protector. He was a beacon of security and warmth in a world that often felt cold and dangerous. She admired his dedication, his unwavering resolve, and the subtle kindness he showed in his actions.

Rogue lay beside her, still tense but gradually relaxing under her reassuring presence. She reached out, placing a hand on his arm, a silent gesture of comfort and gratitude. "You must take care of yourself," she whispered.

Rogue turned to face her, his eyes softening as he took in her words. "Only if you do, Lilithe," he said, his voice filled with sincerity.

They lay there in the quiet of her chambers, the crackling of the fireplace the only sound, sharing a moment of peace and understanding. In that moment, Lilithe realized that Rogue was not just her bodyguard; he was someone she could trust, someone who cared for her deeply, and someone she had come to care for in return.

"Does it hurt?" Rogue asked softly, his voice breaking the silence.

Lilithe turned over, facing him more directly. "Pardon?"

"Watching Lucy from a distance—does it hurt?" Rogue clarified, his gaze unwavering.

Lilithe stared at him for a moment before glancing away, the weight of his question settling over her. "I've always kept an eye on Lucy as she is my family. Her father gave me a choice to set Lucy free, to give her a life of adventure and happiness even if it cost me my own. So yes, in a way, it does hurt to have kept my distance from her all this time. But knowing that she is making memories, good or bad, is completely worth that pain, especially if I am able to protect her from whatever danger they believed her to be in."

Rogue nodded solemnly. "You truly love her."

"Of course, we grew up with one another," Lilithe replied softly, her voice tinged with nostalgia and affection.

Their conversation flowed naturally, an hour passing as they shared their love for literature, discussing favorite books and cherished stories. The shyness they felt towards each other manifested in fleeting glances and gentle smiles, both aware of the growing bond between them yet unsure how to express it fully.

As they drifted off to sleep, Lilithe felt a sense of security and warmth she hadn't felt in a long time.

Sting had come to see her early this morning after Rogue had sent a shadow to alert them that two assassins had broken into Lilithe's chambers. After informing Bastien, Sting headed to the dungeons to help with the interrogation. Lucy, in the meantime, had gone to check on Lilithe and offer comfort, but Lilithe had merely sipped her tea and shrugged off the entire matter.

Lucy wasn't surprised. Why would she be? Lilithe had always been the one to take things in stride, never giving anything a second thought.

Afterward, Lucy returned to her room, where she found Sting waiting with the ledger Bastien had given him. Together, they pored over the names. Many were familiar, while others were harder to place. With a feast scheduled for tonight, Lucy and Sting knew they would have the opportunity to gather more information.

Later that evening, as Lucy was getting dressed up, there was a soft knock on the door. She opened it to find Sting standing there, looking weary but determined.

"Hey, Lucy," Sting greeted her with a tired smile. "Do you mind if I come in?"

"Of course not, Sting," Lucy replied, stepping aside to let him enter. "You look exhausted."

"I am," he admitted, running a hand through his blonde hair. "It's been a long day, and we've got a long night ahead of us."

Lucy nodded sympathetically. "I know. We have to be at our best for the feast tonight."

Sting sat down on the edge of her bed, the weight of the day's events pressing down on him. Lucy joined him, the ledger still open on her desk.

Their conversation became more relaxed. Slowly, the tension began to melt away.

Sting leaned back against the headboard, stretching his arms. "I don't think I've been this tired in a long time," he said, his voice tinged with fatigue.

Lucy smiled softly. "You should rest, Sting. We both should."

Sting looked at her, his eyes filled with gratitude. "You're right. But I don't feel safe leaving you alone."

"You don't have to," Lucy replied, a blush creeping up her cheeks. "Stay here, just for a little while."

Sting's expression softened. "Alright, just for a little while."

They settled back against the pillows, the room dimly lit by the soft glow of a candle. Lucy felt a sense of peace wash over her as she lay beside Sting. His presence was comforting, a reminder that she wasn't alone in this.

Sting wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close. "Get some sleep, Lucy," he whispered.

Lucy nodded, resting her head against his chest. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat lulled her into a sense of security. As they drifted off to sleep, she felt a warmth and a closeness that she had only ever felt once before. She didn't give it another thought as she sunk into him further.

The sun had begun its descent, casting a warm golden glow through the expansive windows of Lilithe's chambers. She stood before a large, ornate mirror, gazing at her reflection with a mixture of determination and serenity. The ethereal silk clothing she wore clung to her body, emphasizing her graceful figure while exuding an almost otherworldly radiance. The fabric shimmered in the fading light, the pure white symbolizing both purity and power.

Lilithe's long, pink hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, accentuating the regal aura that surrounded her. As she adjusted the delicate, revealing silk, her thoughts wandered to the sacred duty she was about to perform. Tonight, she would pour her magic into the ancient tree, a ritual that required her full strength and unwavering resolve.

There was a soft knock on the door. "Enter," she called, her voice steady.

"Mistress!" Marian burst through the doors, startling Lilithe. The older woman was winded, clearly having run all the way to the chambers.

"What's happened, Marian?"

"Your Uncle has had your guests arrested by the guards!"

"Whatever for?"

"I didn't get a chance to hear as I came to alert you immediately. They're in the throne room."

Crossing through several corridors and passing servants and maids, Lilithe kept her face as neutral as possible, though confusion swirled within her. Why would her Uncle arrest them, especially knowing who Lucy was?

Upon her arrival at the throne room, the guards immediately opened the doors for her. She walked in, her presence commanding respect. A whole platoon of guards blocked her view of the proceedings, but a loud, deliberate clearing of her throat had them parting to allow her through. She saw Lucy, Sting, Rogue, and Yukino detained in handcuffs made of magic-sealing stones. Her Uncle Cedric stood proud in silver armor with a velvet and fur-lined cape, a cocky smirk on his face as he stared at the four wizards in contempt.

"Stand down now," Lilithe commanded, her voice cold and authoritative. Her gaze did not stray from her Uncle, who flinched slightly. The guards faltered, their swords still drawn and pointed at the wizards. "I am your Queen and I demand that you stand down now immediately, or you'll be thrown into the dungeons for disobeying the command of your Queen." Immediately, they sheathed their weapons.

"My Queen—" Uncle Cedric started, only for her to cut him off.

"Resume your posts—except you. You will uncuff the wizards." The platoon of fifty soldiers left, all except the one with the keys to the handcuffs. "Explain to me, Uncle, why you would arrest my personal guests?"

"My dear niece, I've been alerted that a couple of wizards have been skulking about the castle and I was not informed that we had guests."

"You just arrested Lady Lucilia Heartfilia and her friends, who are also close friends with Queen Hisui. I was unaware that I, Queen of Valentine, had to inform you of my own personal matters, Uncle."

He clenched his jaw. "I deeply apologize for making assumptions and acting without reason, Your Royal Highness. I didn't realize they were under the protection of Queen Hisui and yourself." Swallowing, he turned to the small group of wizards and bowed to them in respect before turning and leaving the throne room with the guard following behind.

"Marian, please prepare lunch for my guests out in the garden."

The young woman bowed and left. Lucy was the first to speak up, having watched the exchange between Lilithe and Duke Cedric, her uncle.

"I deeply apologize that my Uncle had you four arrested for suspicious behavior," Lilithe said, kneeling down into a bow as she felt embarrassed by her Uncle's behavior. "Please accept the royal family's apology and forgive him for his rash judgment."

Rogue closed the distance between them and kneeled down to her level. With his back turned to the other wizards, they didn't see the smile on his face. Offering the young Queen his hand, his smile turned into a smirk as he watched her blush a deep hue of pink. She placed her hand in his, and the shadow dragon slayer helped her to her feet, maintaining eye contact with the younger woman.

"T-thank you," she said, her throat suddenly dry.

Lucy stepped right next to Rogue, breaking the moment between the two of them. "We accept the apology, Lilithe. I just can't believe he didn't remember me."

Lilithe regained her composure. "He changed after my parents were killed. I give him leniency as he lost his family in a single night, then was forced to become King and rule a country for several years before I awakened and took over. It took its toll on everyone, and we all adapted to the changes in our own way."

"I can't imagine what that would feel like." Sting smiled, but it wasn't a happy one. His eyes were downcast, and Lucy immediately moved closer to him, wrapping her arms around his waist in a comforting embrace. He held her, his expression softening as he found solace in her presence, until his stomach growled.

"Please make your way to the gardens for lunch as I have to do one more thing before I may join you." Lilithe covered her mouth with her hand, hiding her laughter at Sting's growling stomach and his nervous laugh.

As they left, Lilithe's thoughts returned to the ritual she was about to perform. But a part of her couldn't help but replay the moment with Rogue, the way his hand felt in hers, and the unexpected connection that had sparked between them. With a sigh, she turned and made her way back to her chambers, her mind filled with thoughts of duty, family, and the mysterious new feelings that had begun to stir within her.