章 41: Choices and Whispers

(Azaria 'Ziya' Point of View)

I've spent most of the day getting ready for the banquet. The anticipation made every minute stretch longer, every small task a distraction from the thoughts swirling in my mind. The events of the past weeks had led to this moment, and there was an undercurrent of excitement mixed with a touch of anxiety. Aniyah asked me to help her with her hair, and I twisted it into a half-up style that framed her face perfectly.

"Thanks, Z," she said, glancing at herself in the mirror, turning her head slightly to admire the way her hair flowed down her back. "You always know how to make me look good."

I smiled. "You're gorgeous as is. I'm just enhancing it."

Aniyah laughed, her eyes twinkling. "Sure, but you're still the magic behind it."