The Next Day:
Aire noticed the watchful gaze around the moment she stepped out of her chambers that morning.
Servants bowed lower when they saw her. Guards straightened faster and the moment she walked past them, the maids returned to whispering among themselves.
The invitation from King Elijah lingered quietly in her mind.
A private political discussion. His invitation warmed her heart, but left her walking on tiptoe.
Aire adjusted the sleeves of her gown lightly as she walked through the corridors beside Madam.
"You are nervous," Madam observed calmly.
Aire glanced at her. "Am I that obvious?"
"Yes."
Aire sighed softly.
Madam continued walking beside her.
Aire looked ahead again. "What if they don't want me there?" she asked softly.
Madam's expression didn't change. Her expression remained neutral. "Then King Elijah would not have invited you."
.....
