Dreams of Spring (Tamlin x Hyacinth Novella)

Chapter Eleven

Cin watched as Tamlin's words quelled the concerns of the fae, reassuring them that he was a leader who could be trusted and relied upon.

Despite their past grievances, the fae were beginning to see Tamlin in a new light, and they were beginning to believe that he might just be the High Lord they needed to lead them forward.

"Do you think I made a mistake by being so honest with them?" Tamlin murmured under his breath as they strode from the dais. He couldn't help but feel vulnerable, fearing that his candidness may have undermined his authority in the eyes of the fae.

Cin paused, considering Tamlin's question carefully. She put herself in the shoes of the fae who had just listened to their High Lord's candid confessions.

"I think it was the right thing to do," she said firmly. "Transparency breeds trust. You gave them the truth, and they saw that you were willing to admit your mistakes and take responsibility for them. It takes strength to be vulnerable, Tamlin. Remember that."

Tamlin nodded thoughtfully, taking in Cin's words. He knew that building trust was not a quick or easy process, but it was a necessary one. He was committed to doing whatever it took to regain the trust of his people, and he was grateful to have Cin by his side as he worked towards that goal.

"Thank you," he said softly, giving her a small smile. "I couldn't do this without you."

Tamlin's tense expression eased as he reached down to take Cin's hand in his own. He leaned in and whispered in her ear, "Let's get this dinner over with. I'm much more interested in the dessert waiting for us back in our room."

Cin smiled softly at the touch of his lips against her ear, feeling a sense of warmth spread through her at his words.

"Lead the way, High Lord," she said playfully, squeezing his hand in hers.

As Tamlin and Cin made their way toward Lord Bryony's grand home, they were greeted by a long, winding walkway. The path was lined with tall trees that rustled in the cool evening breeze, creating a sense of tranquility and peace. The grand house itself was an imposing structure made of stone, with intricate carvings and ornate balconies that overlooked the sprawling gardens below. Cin couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sight of it all.

"It's beautiful," she murmured, as they made their way up the walkway towards the entrance.

Cin's eyes widened as she took in the opulence of Lord Bryony's home. The grandeur of the exterior was nothing compared to the splendor of the interior. The soaring ceilings, the marble floors, and the intricate tapestries and paintings that adorned the walls all seemed to whisper of the wealth and power that Lord Bryony held.

As they made their way to the dining hall, Cin could not help but be awed by the sight before her. A feast was laid out before them, with a long polished table that gleamed in the soft light. Golden plates and glittering silverware were carefully arranged, and a massive wooden sculpture of a vase of flowers.

Cin fidgeted with the flower crown on her head, grateful that she had used her magic to create a replica and avoid being pestered by the chatty flowers.

The group took their seats, Tamlin and Lord Bryony opting to sit together. Lord Bryony wasted no time in launching into a passionate pitch for Monardo to host the Trade Fair.

"It's the perfect village for it," he argued. "We have the space, the resources, and the eager merchants to make it a success."

In the midst of the conversation, Cin shifted her attention to Vida, Lord Bryony's pregnant wife.

"Lady Vida," she said with a smile, "I can only imagine how thrilled you must be for the little one's arrival."

Lady Vida let out a nervous laugh, her response tinged with a hint of apprehension. "I suppose I'm as excited as I can be," she replied, "but please, call me Vida. No need for formalities here."