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A Gift
Preparations for the birthday party filled the princess's days for over a week. Despite her hope, her twin had not returned. Mairwen was beginning to doubt that he would come back at all. "Where are you, Alaron?" She whispered as she looked out her bedroom window into the distance. "You promised that you would come home."
In the meantime, Aurora and Devrim had been preparing for the prince's arrival. Once the Empress had shared the news about the Fate's visit with the Council, the castle began to mount its defense. Unlike Mairwen, the Empress and Emperor had no doubt that Alaron would come, but whether in peace or some other method remained to be seen. They hoped for the best, but prepared for the worst.
The Emperor sat in the war room discussing plans with Captain Caleb, who was captain of the palace guard, a few generals, and Chief Zan. Aurora was present, but was only a passive participant in this particular conversation.
Devrim pointed to the kitchen entr
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