I was resting in my courtyard that morning, enjoying the rare silence, when the sound of hurried footsteps broke the peace.
I frowned. One after another maids began trooping into my quarters.
Within moments, nearly a dozen servants had filed into my quarters carrying steaming basins of fresh water, polished wooden chests, trays filled with perfumes, and folded royal garments.
I blinked in confusion. "What is all this?"
More maids continued pouring into the room until it felt more like the royal dressing chamber than my
own manor.
"Stop there!"
My voice echoed across the courtyard.
Every maid froze instantly.
"What are you all doing? And who sent you?"
The women exchanged nervous glances before stepping aside.
A familiar figure walked through the entrance.
Linda.
As always, she carried herself with calm elegance, a gentle smile resting on her lips.
"Linda," I said, folding my arms across my chest.
