BEYOND THE THRONE
Chapter One
Ayesha had nearly finished her tea when the first carriage appeared below.
She watched it from the terrace, one hand resting loosely against the warm porcelain cup.
The morning had been quiet until then. Rain had fallen through most of the night, leaving Lyavsavar washed clean beneath a pale sky. From this height, she could see the kingdom stretching below the palace, already awake despite the early hour.
It was one of her favourite views.
And one of the few places where no one expected anything from her.
Lumi lay curled beside her chair, more fur than creature, his tiny face almost hidden beneath his tail. One ear lifted when the distant sound of horses reached the terrace.
Ayesha noticed it too.
She looked toward the road.
A small procession was making its way toward the palace.
Not small, actually.
She counted several mounted guards, attendants, a decorated carriage and enough ceremony to make it immediately obvious this was not an ordinary visitor.
Her brows drew together.
She hadn't forgotten anything.
Had she?
Ayesha set down her cup and moved closer to the balustrade.
One of the banners caught the wind.
Too far away.
She couldn't make out the crest.
That made it even stranger.
No delegation was expected this week. At least, none that she knew of.
Lumi appeared beside her feet, suddenly awake and intensely interested in whatever had interrupted breakfast.
Ayesha watched the carriage disappear beneath the palace gate.
"Well," she murmured.
Apparently her quiet morning was over.
She went inside.
⸻
The palace confirmed her suspicion almost immediately.
There was movement where there hadn't been ten minutes earlier. Servants crossed the halls carrying trays and fresh flowers. Several guards had been reassigned toward the receiving rooms.
No one looked alarmed.
Which meant whoever had arrived was welcome.
Just unexpected.
Ayesha had barely reached the main gallery when she heard her name.
"Ayesha."
Amarin stood near one of the open archways, a collection of rolled plans tucked beneath his arm.
She stopped.
"You look suspicious."
Amarin looked down at himself.
"I've been standing here."
"Suspiciously."
"I see."
Ayesha smiled as she approached him. "Please tell me you know who's arrived."
"No idea."
"Really?"
KAMU SEDANG MEMBACA
Beyond The Throne
FantasiEvery kingdom has its secrets. Lyavsavar was built upon one. Princess Ayesha Valorne has spent her entire life preparing to become the woman her kingdom expects, graceful, obedient, and destined for a future she never chose. Behind the palace walls...
