Chapter four

Expectations

Sybille, with her hand still firmly and protectively on Aurelia's shoulder, lead her through the corridors of the Blue Palace. They stopped at the entrance wooden door to Aurelia's bedroom.

Sybille knelt down to Aurelia's level, tucking a stray hair out of her face, "You did well tonight, my dear." Sybille sensing the anxiety in her young pupil, offered a soft smile, but unlike the guest and nobles it reached her eyes.

Aurelia visibly relaxed, the tension in her shoulders easing for the first time that day. "Thank you, Sybille…" she opened her mouth as if to say more, but hesitated for a moment before quickly asking, "what about ambassador Elenwen?" Her eyes focused on Sybille filled with worry, looking for reassurance.

Sybille paused a moment, her smile widened as she tilt her head, studying Aurelia.

" You did nothing wrong Aurelia. You did very well," She squeezed her shoulders reassuringly, "some people… aren't worth indulging in." Her voice was soft but firm, " Elenwen's interest are rarely in line with yours. I don't want to see you entangled in her agendas."

"I know she's important, she's the ambassador," Aurelia replied, carefully considering her words,

"but she makes me feel.." Her eyes flicker to the floor then back to Sybille's golden orange eyes, letting out a soft sigh, "like she's always watching me."

Sybille's expression softened further, "that's because she is." Her tone was gentle and steady, "She gathers power, not by brute force, but by knowing everything about everyone, and using that knowledge to her advantage."

Aurelia frowned, her brows knitting together as she processed Sybille's words. " But what would she want from me? I'm just a child to her."

"You're more than just a child," She said gently, "you're the daughter of high king torygg." She stood and opened the door to Aurelia's room, "now, no more worrying tonight. Get some rest."

Aurelia managed a small, grateful smile, stepping forward and wrapping her arms around Sybille in a sudden hug. Sybille blinked in surprise before returning the gesture, patting her back gently.

"Goodnight , Aurelia," she said as she pulled back, her eyes lingered in the girl a moment longer.

"Goodnight, Sybille," Aurelia said softly as she slipped into her room, closing the door behind her.

The library is quiet, with the exception of the gentle scratches of Aurelia's quill on the parchment in front of her. She transcribes Elvish vocabulary under the watchful eye of her mentor, Ondolemar. Halbjorn, now growing but still playful, naps on her feet, his tail twitching.

Aurelia pauses, her quill hovering above the paper. She fidgets slightly before glancing at Ondolemar, who stands nearby, reviewing some notes.

"Ondolemar, can I ask you something?"

Without looking up, he replies, "of course, princess. What is it?"

Aurelia hesitates for a moment before blurting out, "Do you think less of me because I'm a Nord?"

The room fell silent. Halbjorn began to stir as if sensing the unease.

Ondolemar stopped what he was doing, his golden eyes narrowed as he considered her question. "Less of you?" He repeated, as he placed his notes down and studied Aurelia. His posture remained rigid but the tone of his voice softened slightly, "No, Aurelia. I do not think less of you."

He clasped his hands together behind his back, leaning forward slightly as if choosing his next words carefully. "As a Thalmor, my allegiance lies with the Aldmeri Dominion. I was raised to believe that the Dominion standards above all else - that our culture, ideals, and yes, our people, are superior." He paused, his eyes flickered to the resting Sabre cat at Aurelia's feet before returning to Aurelia, "But some individuals… are far more complex than the labels placed on them."

Aurelia blinked, unsure how to respond.

"You are clever, inquisitive, and capable of things far beyond your years," Ondolemar continued. "It would be foolish to dismiss you because of something as arbitrary as the race you were born into. And while we may not agree on all things—particularly in matters of culture or politics—I've seen enough to know that you are not defined by them alone."

There was a pause, heavy but not uncomfortable. "Does that answer your question?" he asked, arching a brow, his expression expectant but not impatient.

Aurelia hesitated, but eventually nodded. "It does... Thank you." She looked down at her feet, Halbjorn looked up at her and gave a soft meowl, as if agreeing.

"Now, if that is all, I suggest we return to your studies." His usual sharpness returning to his tone.