**Fireflies in Winter Rain — Neil A. Varma**
**Chapter 93**
Roana,
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“Your Highness,” the waiter announced, his voice tinged with formality. “His Majesty had to step out briefly but will return shortly. He requested that you remain here for a few moments.”
His words struck me like a sudden chill, freezing me in place. Had he really left without so much as a word? What was he thinking?
I forced a smile, tinged with disappointment. “No problem,” I replied, though my mind was swirling with questions.
He nodded politely and set down a matcha latte before exiting the room, leaving me in a swirl of confusion. I let out a sharp sigh, irritation tightening my chest like a vice.
Perhaps it was I who had begun to lose touch with reality.
Cradling the warm cup, I made my way to the patio, seeking solace in the cool breeze that kissed my skin. The air was fragrant with the scent of spring flowers, a delightful contrast to my tumultuous thoughts.
Rye, my loyal companion, purred within me, excitement radiating from her at the mere mention of Cassian’s flirtations. It was as if her tail was wagging in my mind, a reflection of her enthusiasm.
Yet, the tranquility was fleeting. My gaze fell upon the flowers, and I watched in dismay as their vibrant colors began to fade, wilting before my eyes. The air thickened with a fog, and the sweet aroma of blossoms was replaced by a heavy, smoky scent that clawed at my senses.
A shiver ran down my spine as I sensed a presence looming behind me. I was certain I had been alone in this room, and yet, the air felt charged with an unsettling energy. My fingers tightened around the cup, and a creeping unease settled in my stomach.
Just as I turned to confront the intruder, a voice broke the silence, smooth and unsettling.
“How have you been, My Lady?”
My heart raced, pounding against my ribcage, yet I found myself paralyzed, unable to move. The unmistakable fragrance of Black Moon Flower enveloped me, causing my chest to constrict and a wave of numbness to wash over my body. My pulse thundered in my ears, drowning out all rational thought.
“Forgive me for using Black Moon Flower,” the voice continued, dripping with a familiarity that sent a chill through me. “But we have no other options!”
“Who are you?” I snapped, my patience fraying as I felt my hands tremble.
“Don’t be afraid, My Lady. We are not here to frighten you!”
A sense of dread washed over me at the word “we.” More than one? My throat went dry, panic bubbling beneath the surface.
“What do you want?” I demanded, my voice icy, though my spine prickled with apprehension.
A soft chuckle echoed from behind me, footsteps approaching with a deliberate slowness. Rye howled in protest, her claws raking at my insides, but I felt as if invisible chains bound us in place.
“This place… Please meet us there. We will be waiting for you. And… be cautious around Cassian. You know something, don’t you? So tread carefully!”
“I don’t understand what you mean. What do I know—?”
“It’s good to see you again, My Lady. We shall meet at your twenty-sixth birthday!”
Shock coursed through me, my eyes widening in disbelief. They knew about my birthday? Who were these mysterious figures? A cold shiver trickled down my spine, leaving me breathless.
Suddenly, the fog dissipated, and the flowers regained their vibrant hues. I inhaled sharply, relief flooding my senses.
“Witchcraft. They just used magic!” Rye exclaimed, her voice laced with suspicion.
“Hmm. This isn’t a favorable situation,” I replied, my mind racing.
“Indeed. They are aware of our little secret, aren’t they?”
“That’s why they resorted to Black Moon Flower to manipulate my surroundings!”

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