The Demon Queen's Contract

As we continued the tour of the palace, Valeria's enthusiasm never waned. Despite my familiarity with the place, her perspective added a new layer of appreciation. She pointed out architectural details, historical artifacts, and even hidden passageways that I had never noticed before.

"This hallway," Valeria said, gesturing to the intricate carvings on the walls, "was designed by the famous architect Amara. She was known for her attention to detail and the hidden symbols in her work. See here," she pointed to a small, almost invisible carving, "this symbolizes protection and strength. It's meant to guard those who walk these halls."

"That's fascinating," I replied, genuinely intrigued. "I never noticed that before."

Valeria smiled warmly. "There's always more to discover if you know where to look."

We moved through the palace, Valeria sharing more anecdotes and tidbits of history. Her knowledge seemed endless, and I found myself caught up in her stories.

"And this room," Valeria continued, leading me into a large chamber filled with tapestries and paintings, "was once the council chamber. Many important decisions were made here, shaping the future of our kingdom."

I nodded, taking in the grandeur of the room. "It's amazing to think about all the history that took place here."

"Indeed," Valeria agreed. "But come, there's something special I want to show you."

She led me down a series of corridors until we reached a small, unassuming door. Opening it, she revealed a cozy room lined with shelves. Each shelf was filled with framed photographs, and as I stepped closer, I realized they were all of Seraphina.

"This is the family gallery," Valeria explained. "We keep all our cherished memories here."

I moved closer to the pictures, my eyes drawn to a particularly adorable photo of Seraphina as a child. Her hair was wild, her face smudged with dirt, and she wore a determined scowl.

"That was Seraphina's first attempt at gardening," Valeria said with a laugh. "She was so stubborn, insisted on doing everything herself. Ended up covered in dirt and none too pleased about it."

I couldn't help but smile. "She looks so cute, even when she's angry."

Valeria nodded. "She was always a spirited child. Here's another one," she pointed to a photo of a slightly older Seraphina, her arms crossed and a defiant look on her face. "This was taken after she got into a fight with some boys who were picking on her friends. She never tolerated bullies."

"She seems so different now," I mused. "More composed."

"She had to grow up quickly," Valeria said softly. "Being the heir to the throne comes with its own set of challenges. But she's always had that fire in her. It's what makes her a strong leader."

We continued to look through the photos, each one telling a story of Seraphina's childhood. There were pictures of her practicing sword fighting, reading books, and even one where she was laughing, a rare expression of joy.

"That one," Valeria said, pointing to the laughing photo, "was taken during her first successful spellcasting. She was so proud of herself."

"She looks so happy," I remarked.

"She was," Valeria replied. "Magic came naturally to her, but she worked hard to master it. Just like she works hard at everything she does."

I found myself feeling a deep sense of admiration for Seraphina. She had overcome so much and grown into a remarkable woman.

"You know," Valeria continued, "Seraphina never had a lover before you. She was always so focused on her duties and responsibilities. She never allowed herself the luxury of love."

I was surprised. "Really? But she's so... passionate."

Valeria smiled knowingly. "She is. But she's also very guarded. It takes someone special to break through those walls."

I felt a warmth spread through me at her words. "I never knew that."

"You're special to her, Elara," Valeria said gently. "I've never seen her look at anyone the way she looks at you."

I felt a blush creep up my cheeks. "Thank you," I said softly. "That means a lot."

Valeria nodded. "Now, let me tell you about the time she tried to run away from home," she began with a chuckle. "She was about ten years old, convinced she could make it on her own in the world. She packed a bag with some bread and water and snuck out in the middle of the night."

I couldn't help but laugh. "What happened?"

"Well, she got as far as the garden before she realized she had no idea where to go," Valeria said, smiling at the memory. "We found her sitting on a bench, pouting. When we asked her what she was doing, she said she was waiting for the moon to tell her which way to go."

"That's so adorable," I said, laughing. "She's always been headstrong, hasn't she?"

"Always," Valeria agreed. "But that stubbornness is also her strength. It's what drives her to protect those she loves."

As Valeria continued to share more stories of Seraphina's childhood, I felt a growing sense of connection to the woman I had married. It was clear that she had always been a force to be reckoned with, even as a child.

"And did you know," Valeria said, lowering her voice conspiratorially, "she once turned a whole pond into ice just to prove she could?"

I raised my eyebrows in surprise. "Really?"

"Yes," Valeria confirmed. "She was about fifteen, and some boys dared her to do it. She did, but then she couldn't figure out how to turn it back. We had to wait until the sun melted it."

"That's incredible," I said, shaking my head in amazement. "She's always been so powerful."

"Indeed," Valeria said proudly. "But with great power comes great responsibility. And sometimes, loneliness."

I nodded, understanding the weight of her words. "She carries a lot on her shoulders."

"She does," Valeria agreed. "But she's strong. And now, with you by her side, she's even stronger."

Before I could respond, the door to the gallery opened, and Seraphina stepped inside. Her expression was a mix of annoyance and embarrassment.

"Mother, are you telling Elara embarrassing stories about me again?" she demanded.

Valeria smiled innocently. "Just sharing some family history, dear."

Seraphina sighed, shaking her head. "Please, stop with the nonsense. Elara doesn't need to hear all of that."

I couldn't help but laugh at Seraphina's flustered state. "It's alright, Seraphina. I enjoy hearing about your childhood."

Seraphina gave me a grateful look before turning back to her mother. "Let's go, Mother. It's time for dinner."

Valeria stood, still smiling. "Of course, dear. But Elara and I were having such a lovely time."

Seraphina rolled her eyes. "I'm sure you were. But enough is enough."

As we made our way back to the dining room, I couldn't help but feel a new sense of closeness to Seraphina. Her mother's stories had given me a glimpse into her past, and I felt a deepening affection for the woman who had become my wife.

Even if she didn't want me to know about her childhood, I was grateful to Valeria for sharing those precious memories. It made me realize how much more there was to learn about Seraphina and how much more there was to love.

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