Chapter 18. The Red Dress Prophecy

Anastasia POV

"My name is Zahir. What books are you looking for? Maybe the library will be more docile with you now that you have helped us," Zahir says, his thick, white eyebrows coming together on his forehead as he looks at me with gentle curiosity.

"About the kingdom of Moongrave. My name is Anastasia, I am participating in the Luna tournament," I explain shyly, my voice almost a whisper, echoing lightly in the respectful silence of the library.

Zahir's violet eyes seem to sparkle when I inform him of this. He holds my hand, his fingers cold and bony, yet his touch is gentle and affectionate.

"Anastasia. Oh, Anastasia! You have a beautiful name. Do you know the meaning of the name Anastasia, young lady?" Zahir asks animatedly and mysteriously, his voice carrying an almost paternal tone, something I never had from my real father. I slowly shake my head, unable to find the necessary words to speak. "Anastasia means to