Lyra's POV
I stripped the soaked fabric from my body, each piece clinging like it refused to let go. The dress hit the floor with a wet thud, water spreading across the stones beneath my feet. I stepped over the mess and grabbed something practical instead—a flowing top and snug pants that would let me move freely.
The fresh towel was gentle against my dripping hair. I worked it through the strands until they stopped leaving trails of moisture down my back. My fingers combed through the knots, untangling each one with the patience I'd learned from years of taking care of myself.
My gaze drifted to the place where Mia had fallen. Where Kaelen had ended her life. The servants had scrubbed every trace away, but my mind wouldn't let me forget. The crimson pool. The way her body had crumpled. The exact moment the light died in her eyes.
