The sunlight filtered through the high stone windows of the chamber, catching the dust motes that danced around Lumina.
She sat poised before a heavy stone mortar, her fingers stained a faint, earthy green. Around her, maids hovered like nervous sparrows, their silk skirts rustling against the floor, but Lumina remained a statue of focus, the steady thump-thump of the pestle rhythmically echoing through the room.
"My Lady…" Stella whispered, leaning in close as she watched Lumina grind a handful of dried, silver-veined leaves.
"What is the name of this herb? You have been at this for a month. Your hands... they will be scared if you aren't careful."
Lumina didn't look up but a faint, knowing smirk tugged at the corner of her mouth. "It's a remedy, Stella. Or a gamble. Depending on who's drinking it."
"A remedy for what?"
"A poison antidote," Lumina blurted out, her voice cool and melodic. She finally paused, lifting the pestle to inspect the fine powder.
