Maya's POV

"Listen, Moira, there's something I need to tell you."

The ancient door swings open with its characteristic creak, cutting my words short. A witch enters with ceremonial robes that mark her as one of the Queen's personal attendants. Silver threads weave through the midnight fabric, catching candlelight as she approaches my bedside with measured steps.

"Maya Thornfield." Her voice carries formal weight, but there's genuine warmth ...