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Aironell still only saw red. The smoke slowly dissolved revealing the room around her. What she saw was something she thought only existed in her dreams. She was in a gigantic palace with walls that were covered with filigree. The room was large with a fireplace and various shades of red all around. In the center were the king and queen dressed so elegantly that they could have come straight from a fairytale. She glanced over at Isabella and Quairken, both of whom smiled and bowed.
“It has been a long time,” King Francisco held out his hand.
“It has indeed,” Isabella shook the queen’s hand. “I can’t begin to explain how great it feels to be back in Bachusa, Your Majesty.”
“You have no idea how long we have dreamt of this moment,” Quairken shook the king’s hand.
“We know,” Queen Evalyn spoke with such softness.
Aironell felt the melody to the queen’s voice. She continued scanning her surroundings.
“We dreamt of this moment for quite some time.” The queen breathed. “However, we don’t know how it feels to be whisked away from home and then come back after such a long time. Honestly, I can’t even imagine the feeling. The king and I are glad you are back; all of you.” Queen Evalyn let her gaze linger on Aironell.
Aironell turned around and let her eyes linger on the royal couple. Aironell was silent, unsure what to say. It all felt too quick. She did not get enough time to process, before she was brought here. Then the queen smiled at her and waved her over. Aironell moved within arm’s reach.
“We are glad to see you, Aironell,” Queen Evalyn gingerly tucked some of her hair behind her ear. “It has felt like forever since we saw you last.” Aironell heard the hint of her soft voice tremble.
“I-I don’t know what to say,” Aironell glanced at each of them.
“I know.” King Francisco patted her hands. They were firm but not rough. “It’s hard because you don’t have memories of us. This whole arrangement has been difficult. We look forward to learning more about you.”
“Quairken. Isabella. How about you go and put Aironell’s things in her room?” Queen Evalyn instructed. “Then maybe put your things away. I’m sure you would love to see your room and finally relax for a little bit.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.” They picked up all the bags and turned to leave. Before they left, they gave Aironell a smile, then they left.
“Now, why don’t you sit with us? We can have tea and treats.” The king’s voice was deep and smooth. “Maybe reconnect, if you’re up to it?”
The queen sat down on the ruby red couch. The king sat down beside her. Aironell turned and faced the ruby red armchair near the king and queen. They watched her. She could sense it, even if she didn’t see them. At least they seemed pleased to be with her.
Queen Evalyn placed a snowy-white teacup on a saucer in front of Aironell. She snapped her fingers and the silver teapot floated and slowly poured steaming hot tea into the cup. King Francisco held a plate of something that smelled sweet to her.
Aironell pursed her lips, “What are those?”
“Why they are chocolate scones,” Francisco held the platter toward her. “They are quite delicious.”
“Thank you.” Aironell grabbed one and took a bite. They were yummy. Then she took a small sip of the tea, as she blew on it. It tasted sweet but unlike anything she had ever tasted.
“Do you like it?” Evalyn watched her carefully. “It’s a family blend of licorice root and chamomile.”
“It’s definitely interesting. A subtle soothing quality that is sweet.” She took a few more sips. “I think I could get used to it.”
“Excellent,” Evalyn smiled. “Well, Aironell, we want to know as much as we can about you.”
The king nodded.
“Oh. I don’t know what to say. I don’t have much to tell.”
“Honey, anything you say will be new to us, so anything will be great,” Queen Evalyn clasped her delicate looking hand to her chest.
“Alright,” Aironell bit her lip. Her fingers slowly twisted around each other. “I’m sixteen. I, um, I—"
“That’s a start,” King Francisco’s eyes softened. “Take a breath. You’re doing fine.”
“He’s right. Why don’t you tell us about school? Do you have any friends?” Evalyn smoothed out the bottom of her dress.
Aironell took a few slow breaths. “School is great; I love it. I have lots of friends. They come to me for advice.” Aironell felt a heaviness.Emilia. She realized she would never see her again. Never get to tell her what happened. She slumped in the chair.
“That’s good that people come to you. Aironell, are you alright?” The queen leaned forward.
