Chapter 42 The Queen's Illness

• The sun shone brightly, birds soared in the sky and despite the quieter atmosphere in the palace, nature was at its finest. Now that the wedding was over everyone was once again thinking about the war.
• Layana’s heart felt heavy as she made her way to the courtyard, Declan would leave soon and although she wished time could be delayed, it could not. Dressed in a black gown with high collars and long ruched sleeves, the entire bodice was embroidered in a teal blue and silver silk thread which flowed over her hips and to the ground. Her hair was open, cascading down her back and a thin silver crown set with teal jewels sat upon her head.
• “Layana!” Aurelia called from behind her, she paused as her sister hurried over to her as swiftly as she could without looking improper.