I spun on my heel, my voice sharper than intended. “You are dismissed.”
They froze, their postures stiffening like statues. One glanced at the other, his helmet hiding any trace of thought. How could they see anything?
“We may only be relieved by the royal family,” the first responded, his voice clear and unyielding despite the barrier of metal between us.
“I am soon to be a member of it. I assure you, I can handle myself tonight.” The words slipped from my lips, but the smile I forced felt as sharp as a blade. I hoped it didn’t come across asthreatening.
“Be that as it may–”
“I’m sure Prince Tallon would be greatly distressed to learn of your lack of respect for his future bride’s wishes.”
His stance faltered, as if that statement carried weight. His armor creaked with the subtle shift of movement, and they exchanged a brief, uncertain glance.
“I take my leave. Goodnight.”
I spun away, my footsteps quick and deliberate as I moved down the corridor. The temptation to run clawed at me, but I resisted, keeping my pace steady. I held my breath, listening for the telltale clink of armor or a shout to stop me, but the silence remained.
A sigh of relief escaped me as I turned down another hall, the distance between us growing with every step. The thrill of escape coursed through me. At least, for now, I was free.
The corridors gleamed, their light persistent even in the stillness of night. Mirrored lanterns hung from the walls, casting sharp beams that scattered like diamonds, tracing arcs of brilliance across the ceiling and floor. The vines crept along, draping from above, softening the hard edges, lending the palace a cozy warmth.
This hall’s floor was lined with wood, its smooth surface hidden beneath a long carpet woven with intricate geometric patterns. I traced the shapes with my gaze, a small smile tugging at my lips. The design was beautiful, orderly—so unlike the untamed chaos of nature, yet it somehow belonged.
Through tall windows, I glimpsed the soft pink of the setting sky. This palace stretched on, an endless expanse of courtyards, gardens, and patios. Surely, somewhere within it all, there must be a rooftop where one could entertain.
I slowed at the junction, eyeing each hall. A slight, uncomfortable tightness gripped my chest as I realized—
I was lost.
A servant emerged from a room, the door creaking as she pulled it shut. I rushed toward her, but when her wide eyes snapped to mine, I forced myself to slow, realizing I startled the poor soul.
She dropped into a deep curtsy. “Princess!”
“Good evening. Where is the entrance to the roof?”
“The roof?” she squeaked, blinking as she rose.
Had I been wrong? Was there no rooftop space to unwind? It seemed such a waste, especially in a land where the sun reigned and plants flourished. In the Nest, I could understand, but here, with its mild breezes and warm sunlight?
“Begging your pardon, you startled me is all,” she stammered, offering a nervous smile. “Right this way.”
Relief swept through me, and I anxiously rubbed the muscle between my thumb and palm. She swept down the halls—her steps confident and purposeful. She knew where shewas going.
Unlike me.
The corridors were unnervingly quiet, the faint murmurs of the ballroom fading as we ventured deeper into the palace. The nobles and guests were all in attendance, and servants were scarce—perhaps not wanting to risk crossing paths with the higher class on their way to their rooms.
Glimpses of vibrant paintings lined the walls, their rich colors striking, but I couldn’t bring myself to stop and admire them. I was beyond that now. I needed air, and this servant was my ticket.
The walk was short, but the pace she set had my heart thumping and my cheeks flushed by the time we reached a spiral staircase. I glanced up, taking in the sight of it tucked into a shadowed corner of the palace. The staircase rose toward a balcony that ran along the inside of a gathering room, overflowing with more plants. Vines curled around the railing, carefully kept away from the steps to prevent any calamities.
Unlike the stone spiral staircases in the Tower of Draconia, this one was wrought from twisted metal, its intricate ironwork both sturdy and beautiful.
“Would you like me to escort you up?” the servant asked, her voice quiet.
“Thank you, but that is all.”
She smiled and hurried off, eager to return to her duties.
