‘I have rehearsed this conversation so many times over the years. I’m not sure why that practice is failing me now.’ For the first time, Sapphire noticed that the woman looked nervous. ‘Conceiving a child was not easy for me, Sapphire. And then you came – a gift from the Gods – and I felt so lucky to have a daughter. But something was not right; you were ill. Struggling to breathe, to cry – your wail hardly sounded. And I begged the Gods for any type of magic to save you. Magic that was forbidden. Magic that would cost me dearly. None of that mattered – I only cared for you. But the Gods are … well, they have their … reasons. They saved you, I suppose. I only wish I had known the price – the time with you we’d lose. I held you so tightly, but the room had gone quiet – the weight of your small frame was just … gone. And your father and I … we were alone.’

‘But what … what did the Gods do?’

‘They called upon a Shadow Witch. Their magic … the power that they wield … It eats away at the soul. But, in the moment, we were so desperate, Sapphire. So desperate that we broke a millennia-old rule – never trust a Shadow Witch. She … she cut open your small palm and the spell she uttered stole you away from us.’

Sapphire opened her hand, staring at the scar. She had always asked Martia about it, but got no answers – because it was caused by a witch. A shadow of her panic must have passed across her face because the queen reached out until her hand eclipsed Sapphire’s own.

‘Aylara, you must be tired.’ Araxia paused, realizing her misstep. ‘I apologize. I know that is not the name you are used to. You are Sapphire. I promise I’ll get it right.’

Araxia held her gaze with hopeful eyes as if she was waiting for a response, but when it didn’t come, she continued, ‘I know this is overwhelming. So, I give you my word. As much space and time as you need will be offered. We will not rush into your presentation.’

Presentation?

Sapphire found that she was too tired to ask.

Araxia turned to whisper to one of the servants. ‘I need Claye.’

It only took a few moments for his familiar face to appear in the doorway.

‘You called for me, your majesty?’

‘Ah, Claye. Yes – as you’ve been so … involved in this process, would you mind helping Sapphire get comfortable while we assign her a lady in-waiting? Simply show her to her room, help her learn her way around the castle. We will send handmaidens to assist with the day-to-day things.’

‘Of course, your majesty. Anything you or her highness need, I am here.’

‘Splendid.’ The queen offered a small smile. ‘Now, please escort the princess to the guest room nearest to the water gardens. I want her to enjoy the view.’