Aria was dismissed from the king's chambers. She walked out with a her head now.
The king did not look back as she bowed and withdrew from his chambers, his attention already returned to matters that weighed heavier than a single servant girl.
The doors closed softly behind her, sealing in shadows, power and questions she dared not voice.
Her hands trembled only once.
Then she steadied them and walked on.
The corridors felt different now. Not hostile. Watchful.
By the time she reached the kitchens, the air was thick with heat and low voices. Morning light filtered through the high windows, catching on copper pots and long tables dusted with flour. It should have felt familiar. Safe.
It didn't.
Aria moved toward the bread racks, keeping her head down as she reached for a small loaf. That was when she heard it whispers, sharp and hurried, slipping between the clatter of plates.
"They found another one last night."
"Near the south wing."
"Drained?"
