The gang huddled together in the quiet clearing just outside the castle grounds, their breath visible in the morning air. The urgency of this mission had brought them closer, each one contributing ideas as they brainstormed a plan. Aeron leaned against a snag, arms crossed, deep in thought, while Violet paced in small circles, voicing every idea that came to mind. Starfania stood with Atlas at her side, his soft rumble a constant reassurance. Aeron nodded in comprehension and said, " I understand. It's the perfect hiding spot. "
Violet leaned in, a mixture of curiosity and concern on her face. " But how are we going to get there without drawing attention? I mean, sneaking into the palace grounds with a dragon isn't exactly subtle. "
Starfania turned to Atlas, stroking his head thoughtfully. " We'll need to be careful and stick to the shadows. Atlas is smart–he'll stay quiet, won't you? "
Atlas let out a soft rumble, as though agreeing with her. Aeron smirked, folding his arms. " Smart and quiet? I think I'll believe it when I see it. "
Starfania shot him a playful glare. " Oh, he's smarter than you, that's for sure. "
Violet stifled a laugh while Aeron raised his hand in mock surrender.
" All right, all right. Lead the way, princess. " he teased with a bow. Starfania rolled her eyes dramatically, but a smile tugged at her lips. " Haven't I made it clear that I hate being called that? "
" Of course, princess, " Aeron said with a grin, earning a groan from her and a giggle from Violet.
With a shake of her head, Starfania stepped forward, motioning for the others to follow. The air was thick with anticipation, the kind that made her heart race. She glanced back at Atlas, who kept close, his eyes scanning the area for any signs of trouble. The towering castle loomed in the distance, its wall bathed in the daylight. As they approached, the dense foliage gave way to a crumbling stone wall, partially concealed by vines and wildflowers. Starfania gestured towards it, her heart pounding with anticipation.
" There, " she said, her voice low but firm. " Beyond this wall is the garden. It was my mother's sanctuary, and it will be Atlas's now. It's hidden, forgotten by most, and no one will think to look there. "
Aeron and Violet exchanged a glance, their expression serious now.
" How do we get in without being seen? " Violet asked. Starfania grinned. " Follow me. "
She stepped closer to the wall, brushing aside the wildflowers that clung to its stones. A narrow gap was barely visible, just wide enough for them to slip through. Carefully, she wedged herself into the space, feeling the rough, ancient stones against her skin. Atlas followed closely behind, his presence reassuring. Aeron and Violet squeezed through last, the thrill of the unknown surging through them. Once inside, the atmosphere shifted. The garden was a mix of vibrant colors and wild growth, as if nature had reclaimed its territory. Sunlight poured in gently, illuminating forgotten paths and stone statues half-buried by foliage. Starfania paused to take it all in, a soft smile creeping onto her face.
"It's more alive than I remembered," she whispered, her voice filled with reverence. Violet knelt down to examine a patch of vibrant flowers, their scent sweet and intoxicating.
"It's beautiful here," she said, glancing up at Starfania. While Starfania patted Atlas' head and met his gaze.
" This is your home now, " she said in a whisper. He let out a contented rumble, nuzzling her hand.
The gang ventured deeper into the forgotten garden, their footsteps crunching against the overgrown foliage that had claimed the garden. Wildflowers bloomed in a chaotic burst of color, and ivy clung to the crumbling walls, weaving nature and history into an intricate tapestry. Atlas trailed behind, his curious eyes taking in the lush surroundings. Starfania couldn't help but feel a certain pool of nostalgia as the familiar sights awakened memories deep within her. Suddenly, her gaze fell upon an old stone bench, hidden beneath a veil of ivy. Her family crest was carved into this surface, a solemn reminder of the day past.
This sent a shockwave of emotions though her, and Starfania froze, unable to breath as flashes of the past consumed her. Her mother's laughter echoed in her ears, her hand tenderly planting flowers in every spot. The vivid memories rushed in like a tide, overwhelming her. She could almost feel the warmth of her mother's embrace, the way it had wrapped around her like a soft blanket. There were moments in the garden, sunny afternoons filled with shared smiles and whispered secrets. Every bloom they tended together was rooted in love and care, a symbol of their bond. Starfania squeezed her eyes shut, trying to push the memories away, but they clung to her like shadows, refusing to let go. The scent of fresh soil and blooming flowers filled her senses, transporting her to a time that felt so distant yet achingly close. She could see her mother's hands, so gentle yet strong, nurturing each plant with unwavering dedication. In that instant, the world around her faded, leaving only the images of joy and sorrow intertwined. It was a bittersweet reminder of what she had lost, a life that had once been full of laughter and love. Breathing deeply, she fought to regain her composure, knowing she had to come back from this place of grief.
Aeron seemed to notice Starfania's change in demeanor and approached her with quiet concern. His warm smile broke through the haze, and he gently pulled Starfania into a comforting hug.
" It's okay, Star, " he said, his voice filled with care. " The day you lose someone, it feels like the world stops. But the day after, when they're not there for the insignificant moments… that's when it hurts the most. "
Starfania took a deep breath, leaning into his embrace. The warmth of his presence steadied her racing thoughts.
"I didn't think I'd feel so lost," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Aeron tightened his grip slightly, as if to shield her from the pain.
"It's natural to feel that way," he reassured her. "Everyone handles grief differently. Just give yourself time."
A tear slipped down her cheek, and she wiped it away, not wanting to appear weak. "I keep expecting to hear her voice or see her smile. But it's just silence."
Aeron nodded, understanding the void that words can't fill. "You'll carry her with you in your heart. The memories, the laughter—those will never fade."
Starfania looked up at him, searching for the strength in his eyes. "But how do I move forward when it all feels so heavy?"
"One step at a time," he replied softly. "The weight will lessen, but it's okay to feel it for now. Allow yourself to grieve."
She drew in a shaky breath, feeling a small spark of relief. "Thank you for being here. It means a lot."
"Always, Star. You're not alone in this."