~~~{──────────
Night.
Bedroom, 3rd Prince Chambers.
Wyfkeep Castle, Wyfellon.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~}~~~
Salviana rushed through the hallways, her heart pounding in her chest, the searing sting on her shoulder a distant echo compared to the ache in her soul. Emma followed closely behind her, silent but concerned, her presence a small comfort in the otherwise oppressive atmosphere. The chamber guards, sensing the tension, stepped aside as they approached the doors to her chambers, their eyes averted but alert.
As soon as the door closed behind her, Salviana turned to the maids who had trailed in, eager to assist her with the elaborate night preparations, but she shook her head, her voice quiet yet firm. "No, leave me," she whispered. "I'll manage alone tonight."
They hesitated, uncertain, but eventually bowed and exited without protest. When the door clicked shut, the silence that followed was deafening.
