The Royal Gardens of the Griffon Kingdom were vast and breathtaking, a paradise sculpted by centuries of care. Tonight, however, the garden belonged to only two people—Queen Sylpha and King Meron.
The sky above them was a sea of glittering stars, untouched by city lights. The scent of night-blooming jasmine filled the air, carried by a soft, warm breeze. The entire scene had been carefully prepared—not by the royal attendants, but by Meron himself.
Sylpha, dressed in a flowing silver gown that shimmered in the moonlight, arched an eyebrow as she surveyed the setup. A low table with fine wine, two plush cushions, and a magical barrier keeping the night air pleasantly warm.
She turned to Meron, arms crossed. "A private dinner in the gardens? No grand ball? No elaborate banquet?"
Meron smirked, adjusting the cuffs of his royal tunic. "For once, I wanted an evening without politics, without court formalities. Just us."
Sylpha considered his words, then gracefully took a seat. "I suppose even a Queen can indulge, once in a while."
Meron poured the wine himself, his movements relaxed yet precise. "I recall a time when you would have preferred sparring over dinner."
Sylpha accepted her glass, tilting her head slightly. "And I recall a time when you weren't so sentimental."
He chuckled, clinking his glass against hers. "Age and wisdom, my love. Even warriors deserve quiet moments."
For a while, they simply enjoyed the peaceful night—something rare in their lives filled with battles, politics, and responsibilities. The wine was rich, the cool night air pleasant, and the tension of ruling a kingdom momentarily forgotten.
Then, with a small smile, Meron pulled something from his pocket—a small silver pendant, shaped like a griffon in mid-flight.
Sylpha raised an eyebrow. "Another gift?"
Meron smirked. "Not just any gift. This is enchanted. If you ever need me—truly need me—it will summon me, no matter where I am."
Sylpha studied it for a moment before taking it. "A thoughtful gift. Though I doubt I'll ever need to use it."
Meron leaned closer, his voice lower, teasing. "You say that now. But what if I ever manage to surprise you?"
Sylpha's lips curved into a rare, genuine smile. "Then I suppose you'll have earned it."
The stars continued to shine above them, the night stretching on in quiet intimacy. For once, they were not rulers. Just a man and a woman, stealing a moment for themselves.