Chapter201:Whispers in Moonlight

Lilac’s POV The first light of dawn spilled through the arched windows, painting the palace in soft gold. I stood there, fingers pressed against the cool glass, watching the kingdom awaken below. The scent of morning dew and distant pine filled the air—but beneath it, something else lingered. Something sharp. Uneasy. Aurora slept soundly in her cradle, her tiny fingers curled around the edge of her blanket. I pressed a kiss to her forehead, my heart swelling and aching all at once. We fought so hard for this peace. So why does it feel like it’s slipping through my fingers? The door creaked open, and Alaric stepped inside, his broad shoulders tense, his usual warmth replaced by a quiet intensity. "You’re up early," I murmured, turning to face him. His gaze flickered to Aurora before meeting mine. "I didn’t sleep." That was unusual— and the shadows beneath his eyes were darker than usual. "What’s wrong?" I asked, stepping closer. He exhaled, running a hand through his disheveled hair. "T